Novena, fiesta chapel masses in Cebu City suspended

CEBU, Philippines —  Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma has suspended the celebration of novena and fiesta chapel masses in Cebu City parishes after the metropolis was placed under Alert Level 3 due to the recent spike in COVID-19 cases.

The archbishop issued the order, which takes effect during the duration of Alert Level 3 from January 14 to 31, 2022, through Archdiocesan Chancellor Msgr. Renato Beltran Jr.

Foot and mobile processions are also prohibited, according to the church officials.

"Chapel processions, either mobile or foot, are likewise strictly prohibited," read a portion of Beltran’s letter to parish priests in the city.

Beltran, however, said novena or nine-day Mass and fiesta masses may still be celebrated online.

The novena leading to Fiesta Señor started on January 7. The fiesta falls on Sunday, January 16.

"This is our way of doing our share in our continuing collaboration and cooperation with all the agencies in stemming the COVID-19 transmission," he said.

The National government placed 28 local government units, including the cities of Cebu and Mandaue, under Alert Level 3 until January 31.

The new classification was made due to the increase of COVID-19 cases in the said areas, said Cabinet Secretary and Acting Presidential Spokesperson Karlo Nograles. — KQD (FREEMAN)