The Roman Catholic Churches in Lagos have been forced to suspend handshakes and sprinkling of holy water in church following the outbreak of coronavirus.
Nigeria recorded it first case of Coronavirus from an italian who returned to the country with it after a short visit to his home country, Italy. He has tested positive and has been quarantined to prevent further spreading of the virus.
Catholic archbishop of Lagos, Alfred Martins explained that the decision to quit shaking hands and sprinkling holy water is as a result of the present situation the country is facing.
He said:
“During this season of Lent, in order to reduce the number of gatherings in Church to the barest necessary, we encourage people to do Stations of the Cross privately on Wednesdays while public celebrations will take place only Fridays especially as it is often followed by Mass.
“Communion, for the time being, shall be received on the palms. People are encouraged to have Hand Sanitizers handy to be used as and when needed.
“The use of Holy Water fonts in churches and public places should be suspended till further notice. May the Lord deliver us from this plague and all evils.”
Source: Ghgossip
