IN A bid to protect elderly parishioners from the coronavirus disease (Covid-19), the Archdiocese of Manila on Friday, June 12, discouraged senior citizens from providing voluntary services in church.
In his pastoral instruction titled "Our Eagerness to Serve", Manila Archdiocese apostolic administrator Bishop Broderick Pabillo said this is temporary until the Covid-19 pandemic is over.
"My dear elderly parish volunteers, even as we appreciate your willingness and good intention to serve, we are also concerned about your health and the health of your family. Please make this sacrifice, and I know, for many, it is a sacrifice, not to serve in the liturgical services, until this pandemic is over," Pabillo said.
In the meantime, the prelate asked them to do the service of prayer, which is "not only important, but indispensable" in the church, while in their homes.
"Though still kept in your houses for the time being, please accompany the church activities with your prayers and spiritual, and even material, offerings. You be our prayer intercessors at this time of crisis," said Pabillo.
He asked the elderly church workers, however, to recruit younger volunteers in their place as the churches need more now since there are new ministries to be created or reinforced, such as the health ministry and the social communications ministry.
The elderly are among those believed to be at high risk to Covid-19.
Metro Manila is under a general community quarantine until June 15. Under GCQ, government is gradually allowing the resumption of religious gatherings, such as Masses. (HDT/VoxPop Philippines)