THE Diocese of Bacolod will ask the Catholic faithful to observe "genuflection" when showing adoration to Santo Entierro on Good Friday, April 15, at the San Sebastian Cathedral.
Rev. Fr. Henry Tiapes Donasco, director for the Commission on Liturgy of the Bacolod Diocese and parochial vicar San Sebastian Cathedral, said this is a way of upholding the greater welfare of the Catholics who will visit the holy image given the fact that we are still not free from the risk of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.
"Genuflection" or "genuflexion" is the act of bending a knee to the ground, as distinguished from kneeling, which more strictly involves both knees.
From early times, it has been a gesture of deep respect for a superior.
Donasco said there are changes in the observance of the Holy Week due to Covid-19 pandemic.
The yearly holding of the portrayal of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ will not be held; instead, they will have stations of the cross inside the Cathedral.
The changes are same with the adoration of the cross and veneration of images, as the Church will not allow physical contact or any touching, by the use hand or with handkerchief, to the face or body of the holy images.
They can express their faith and devotion through genuflection, the priests said, adding that the rest of the practices are carried out like the "Duaw" (visitation) on Good Friday.
Public activities like procession will be closely coordinated with the local government unit or with the barangays.
"We urged everyone to avoid physical contact with the images and observe the basic health protocols by wearing of a mask, practice proper sanitation and observe social distancing," Donasco said.