MANILA - Many Filipinos have become accustomed to going to Simbang Gabi every Christmas.
And now that there is a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued a rule for those who want to continue their annual Christmas worship during “new normal.”
According to their rules, evening masses can begin at 6 pm, while the last mass should be at 6 am.
According to Fr. Jerome Secillano, CBCP Executive Secretary, bishops or the parish priest himself can contact the LGU to hold a mass in another place that can accommodate more people.
Examples include the gymnasium and other large areas - but the capacity should still be at 30 percent and physical distancing and other health protocols should also be followed.
Live streaming of masses for those who cannot attend will continue.
For those who celebrate Mass De Gallo or Christmas Eve mass, the mass can start at 6 pm.
The number of masses on the day of Christmas can be increased.