The Czech government reacted to this by adjusting the measures against the coronavirus, while also introducing a new system of easing restrictions (the PES system has been abandoned).
As a result, it follows that: from Monday, April 26, the ban on mass singing during worship is lifted, and the obligation to stay seated during worship is canceled. During worship, it is mandatory to disinfect hands upon entry, wear respirators, maintain 2-meter distances, it is recommended to forgo the sign of peace by shaking hands, and to receive the Eucharist in the hand. Thus, in our parish, it means:
- worship services will continue to be held as before at St. Family Church, reservation is only required for Sunday, the maximum number of participants is 60 (in St. Martin's Church 10) — in this regard, the reservation forms on the website will be adjusted, for Sunday masses the reservation will be opened right from Monday at 7:00 AM, as there are enough seats for both Sunday masses
- the need for reservations for weekday masses is canceled (except for St. Martin's Church, where to maintain the 2-meter distance, a maximum of 10 participants is possible)
- the obligation to have the mouth and nose covered with a respirator (or at least a surgical mask) remains, hand disinfection upon entering the church
- from Monday it will be possible to sing (in respirators), we will see how manageable it will be
This week we have an online catechism class with the topic of biblical anthropology, this time we will look at the texts of the flood (Genesis 6) and the construction of the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11) and we will search for answers to the question of how these texts contribute to our understanding as human beings. Registration is possible as usual from Monday.
At the same time, I would like to soon begin preparation of children for first communion. I will strive to prepare materials so that they can be discussed in families, and what cannot be covered will be completed in person at the church. The goal is for the children to participate in Holy Communion as soon as possible before the holidays. In this context, I will contact the parents I have on file via email, but I also ask that parents who are interested in this preparation reach out to me directly.
I wish you a blessed and peaceful Easter season,
Gregory J. Žáček
