AS part of its transition to a “new normal,” the Archdiocese of Manila is ordering the creation of a health ministry in every parish under its jurisdiction.
In his latest Pastoral Instruction, Manila Archdiocese Apostolic Administrator Bishop Broderick Pabillo said it is imperative for every parish to have a health ministry amid concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our first concern now is how to open up our church services in a safe way. But little by little, each parish and each church organization have to undergo planning on how to do their activities and programs in this new situation,” said Pabillo.
“Let each parish create a ministry of health to extend services in the parish… This is part of our stewardship of the gift of health — our health and the health of those around us,” he added.
Pabillo said the health ministry will be tasked to extend services to the elderly and the sick in the parish.
Meanwile, Legazpi Bishop Joel Baylon is strongly urging parishes to consider organizing barangay masses for the faithful.
According to Diocesan Circular No. 17-2020, Baylon said the clergy is encouraged to hold such masses in order to accommodate more faithful with physical distancing still adequately observed.