The Ministry of Health of Cyprus announced the measures that must be observed inside and outside the churches and the conditions required for the church attendance.
It is stated that the ratio of one person per 8 square meters in the temple must be observed as well as the minimum distance of two meters inside the churches, kissing the priest’s hand and the holy icons is recommended to be replaced with bowing while the antidoron will be placed in transparent bags.
In particular, the measures and instructions issued by the Cypriot Ministry of Health for the safety of the faithful provide that the ratio of one person per 8 m² and a two-meter distance must be observed in the churches. Moreover, the faithful can attend the services in the churchyard while keeping a two-meter distance between them. Outdoor loudspeakers will be used during the church services at the permissible sound level.
It is recommended to avoid kissing, hugging, shaking hands as well as kissing the priest’s hand that can be replaced with bowing as a sign of respect.
As for the antidoron, all the sextons will be given specific instructions; first to wash their hands, to use antiseptic for hands and wear disposable gloves, and then to place the antidoron in transparent bags. After being blessed by the priest, the antidora will be placed at the exit of the church, where there will be no overcrowding and the faithful will take it on their own, always keeping their distance.
There should be two hand sanitizer stations at the entrance of the churches. Individual hygiene measures include hand sanitization with disinfectant upon entering the church. It is recommended to use a surgical or fabric mask to cover the nose and mouth indoors.
It is recommended that surfaces that are frequently touched by many people, such as handrails or knobs, should be frequently cleaned and disinfected.
It is important to ensure the natural ventilation of the church during the stay of faithful in the churches. It is recommended that the groups belonging to vulnerable groups should stay home while they can watch the church services online.
Source: protothema