The Ministry of Health issued instructions and precautionary measures against the new coronary artery (SARS-CoV-2) in the Holy Temples, Chapels and Holy Monasteries of the Church of Cyprus.
According to a relevant announcement, the Ministry of Health, taking into account the positive epidemiological picture in Cyprus from the pandemic of the new coronary artery (SARS-CoV-2) and the suggestions of the World Health Organization, decided on the measures to be observed in the churches (internal and outdoor areas) and the conditions required for the attendance of the faithful in the Orthodox Holy Temples, in order to preserve public health.
A large number of believers are elderly and therefore considered vulnerable to the virus and need to be protected. The strict observance of the measures and instructions given, will allow the safe attendance of the faithful in the Holy Temples, Chapels and Holy Monasteries of the Church of Cyprus for pilgrimage, prayer and for their participation in the Holy Communions and the Holy Mysteries (Divine Liturgy , Marriage, Baptism, etc.). Furthermore, it should be noted that the effect of summer on the virus alone will not be enough to eradicate the virus.
It is important for the citizens to understand, says the Ministry of Health, that at the moment everything depends on our behavior. The course of the epidemic in our country will depend on our compliance with the rules of hygiene and the measures of social distancing in our daily lives.
Measures and instructions for the safety of the faithful and the prevention of the spread of the new corona (SARS-CoV-2):
1. Maintaining social distance within the temples and courtyards Maintaining the proportion of one person per 8 sq.m. and with a minimum distance of two meters inside the Holy Temples. Also, the faithful can watch in the courtyard keeping the distance of two meters between them. External loudspeakers will be switched on during operating hours at the legally permissible noise level. It is recommended to avoid kisses, hugs, handshakes, etc., as the Priest's handshake which can be replaced with a bow of respect. It is proposed to distribute retribution or other inedible goods outside the temple keeping the distances.
2. Application of rules of personal hygiene and protection At the entrance of the Holy Temples there should be two antiseptic stations. Personal hygiene measures include hand hygiene with disinfectant at the entrance to the Holy Temple. It is recommended to use a mask (fabric or surgical) or cloth to cover the nose and mouth while staying indoors. In case of cough or sneezing, cover the nose and mouth with the sleeve at elbow height or with a tissue. Used tissue should be discarded immediately after use in the bins and antiseptic applied to the hands. .
3. Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and areas Frequent cleaning and disinfection of surfaces that are frequently touched by many people (eg handrails, handles) is recommended. Surfaces of Sacred Icons and other objects should be disinfected frequently. The kissing of the Holy Icons and other Sacred Objects could be done without physical contact but with bowing.
4. Ventilation of the interior of the Holy Temples It is important to ensure the natural ventilation of the Holy Temples during the stay of people inside them. If artificial air conditioning works then you should also provide natural ventilation with open doors and windows.
5. Protection of vulnerable groups of the population as much as possible In order to protect vulnerable groups of the population, it is recommended that they stay home or come when it is absolutely necessary during the days of limited attendance, such as e.g. on weekdays or Saturdays. Special care must be given to the vulnerable groups of the Clergy.
6. Providing space for the temporary isolation of people People who may show symptoms should be removed from the site of the Holy Temple and temporarily isolated until their safe removal avoiding contact with other people. The room should be ventilated and there should be a mask to be placed on the patient, tissues, disposal in closed foot baths, and hand sanitizer.
7. Continuing activities via the internet or other media The internet, social media, posting videotaped speeches, sermons and video conferencing services to continue the activities of catechists, Bible studies, group meetings, etc. can be widely used.
8. Meals of love - Social work of the Church and provision of food to economically ill populations. To avoid overcrowding, food should be delivered or distributed in a package and for their preparation, the rules of food hygiene should be applied, as well as the distance between the food makers and the people who help in the distribution and delivery of the packages.
9. Receiving antidote All the nuns of the Temples will be instructed, first to wash their hands, to put antiseptic and disposable gloves and then to place the antidote in transparent bags. After being blessed by the Priest to be placed at a point at the exit of the temple, where there will be no overcrowding and each believer will receive it himself, observing the appropriate distances.
Source: omegalive