Churches and other places of worship are now recognized as essential and have resumed their services.
After many discussions the government had with religious leaders over the opening of spiritual worship it was agreed upon to reopen churches at the beginning of the lockdown level 3 at the beginning of June. However stringent measures should be followed. Not more than 50 people are to attend a service. Moreover places of worship would have to be sanitized before and after every service.
Last Sunday was the first time in three months the parishioners of St. Benedict’s Cathedral gathered for Holy Mass. Before the celebration on Sunday a number of lay people had come to help with cleaning and fumigating of the church. Because of the large number of the congregants, three Masses were held. Those who took part in the celebration had to sign a register and have their temperatures checked. “We are all in the same boat and we need to work together to keep safe”, said Fr. Victor Chavunga OSB. Sunday services will continue to be held at 8am, 9.30am and 11am until further notice.
In Mbongolwane, Fr. Lungisani Masondo also celebrated Holy Mass in the Mission and went out to the outstations as well. Sunday services will be held regularly under stringent safety measures. Also, funerals will be held according to government’s guidelines.
As sisters, we are happy to be back in church, as we have missed the Holy Eucharist which is the centre of spiritual life. We also pray that everyone remains protected from the corona virus.
Text & Photos: Sr. Maria Machi
