HYDERABAD: Amid rising Omicron cases, churches in the twin cities have tweaked their Christmas celebration plans and many are making additional arrangements to curb the spread of infection.
With the high court instructing the government to impose curbs on gatherings during festivals, including Christmas celebrations, churches have turned vigilant before the government issues any orders.
“On Christmas, close to 1,000 people are expected to visit the church. Keeping that in mind, we have made additional seating arrangements even outside the church, within the premises, to ensure that social distancing is maintained during service,” said Norman Issac, treasurer of St John’s Church in Secunderabad.
Multiple services are planned at many churches to avoid overcrowding. The churches have also issued guidelines, asking parishioners above the age of 60 not to come for the special mass on December 24 and 25. Many have limited the number of members who will attend the service.
“We are holding a midnight mass on Christmas eve from 11 pm followed by an early morning mass at 6.30 am on Christmas. The event will also be streamed live so that the elderly and those who are unable to visit the church can watch it from home,” said Father Balashowreddy of St Joseph’s Cathedral, a 200-year-old church in Gunfoundry.
Several churchgoers are also contemplating on whether to attend the Christmas mass in church or join the live-stream. “Earlier this month, we were very excited that Christmas would be slightly more relaxed this year. However, conditions don’t seem very conducive now,” said John Jermias, a resident of Alwal.
