Archbishop Joseph Nguyễn Năng in a letter sent to Catholics in the city today, March 25, said that the complicated development of the coronavirus pandemic forced the diocese to temporary halt all religious gatherings at churches in the city, starting from tomorrow afternoon, March 26.

The Archbishop said this is a difficult decision, especially in the coming Holy Week and Easter. Never has the Church had to stop masses and prayers like this, but the suspension is for the safety of Catholics and community amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Churches are told not to celebrate religious rites with crowded Catholics as usual, but still open the doors to those who want to come individually for prayer. Daily masses will be done privately by priests.

However, Catholics are invited to join online masses celebrated every day at 5:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

The Archbishop said the suspension will last until next announcement.

Source: english.thesaigontimes.vn