Following consultation with the health authorities over Covid-19 concerns, the Bishops of Malta and Gozo have said that they are stopping all religious functions in Malta and Gozo, including daily and Sunday Mass, this also includes children’s catechesis.
The Bishops said that Christians are to be given dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Masses.
“This precautionary measure comes into force with immediate effect and is taken for the common good, and to especially protect those most vulnerable in society, the Bishops said.
In case of a funeral, the priest will conduct the rite of blessing at the cemetery as it is in the open-air and will be in the presence of only the closest of relatives, they said.
The priest then, in private, will offer Mass for the repose of the deceased soul. The churches will be open at the usual times for moments of private prayer.
These measures remain in place until further notice.
Christians are still invited to join in prayer by following broadcasts on TVM2, Knisja.mt and Newsbook, as indicated: Tomorrow, Friday 13th of March at noon, led by Archbishop Charles J. Scicluna.
Monday to Friday, Mass will be televised at 9: 30am and the Rosary at 5:30pm,
Saturday and Sunday, TVM2 will broadcast the celebration of the Mass from Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary and from Malta churches.
Photo: Archdiocese