THE Diocese of Bacolod has ordered the discontinuation of the live streaming of its Masses starting September 24, 2023, citing the lifting of all prohibition related to the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.
In a decree, Bacolod Bishop Patricio Buzon ordered all parishes, chaplaincies, and private oratories in the diocese to cease the live streaming and broadcasting of their Masses.
"In recent months, health protocols have been relaxed and the use of face masks has become optional. Churches are now open, and we are no longer physically prohibited from attending the Mass," said Buzon.
"In light of these positive developments, we are informing all parishes, chaplaincies, and private oratories that the live streaming and broadcasting of Masses will be discontinued. This includes the live streaming and broadcasting of fiesta masses," he added.
An exemption, though, is the online and televised Masses for the sick and the elderly that are unable to leave their homes.
"For the sake of the sick and the homebound, the only Mass to be streamed and broadcast is the 10 a.m. Sunday Mass at the San Sebastian Cathedral," said Buzon.
The prelate also said that the act of spiritual communion, which is a devotional prayer, will no longer be read aloud when communion is received by the faithful in attendance.
"Instead, it will be projected on screen for those who are following online," he said.
Buzon, then, reminded the faithful in Bacolod to actively and physically attending the Sunday Masses just as they did before the pandemic.
"Let us return to the summit towards which the Church's activities are directed and the font from which all blessings flow," said Buzon.
During the onset of the pandemic, all churches and chapels in the country were closed with Church services forced to rely on virtual presence.
Since then, the community health restrictions have been gradually lifted and eased, thus allowing the faithful to return to physically attending Masses. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)