Through Worship Or Social Media, KAJ Asks Priests To Actively Socialize Reducing Mobility During Christmas And New Year Holidays

Secretary General of KAJ Romo Vincentius Adi Prasojo during the discussion of the COVID-19 Confectionery Task Force at Graha BNPB, Jakarta (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Jakarta Archdiocese (KAJ) appealed to all people to reduce mobility by not traveling to crowded places or returning home during the Christmas and New Year holidays. This is to prevent a wave of transmission of COVID-19.

"This appeal should be continuously conveyed to the congregation by the priest during worship opportunities as well as through social media and information belonging to the parish", said Jakarta Archdiocese Secretary-General, Adi Prasojo, in a written statement received in Jakarta, Antara, Monday, November 22.

The appeal is in line with the government's policy of implementing Community Activity Restrictions (PPKM) Level 3 for all regions in Indonesia during Christmas and New Year. On the other hand, he also asked the people to participate in the COVID-19 vaccination program as the obligations and rights of citizens in guaranteeing health and safety.

The reason is, an easy effort that can be done to end the pandemic is to be disciplined in implementing health protocols; wearing masks, washing hands, reducing mobility, avoiding crowds, and maintaining distance, as well as vaccinations.

"It is the responsibility of the parish priest and the daily parish council to support the government in tackling this pandemic", he said.

Meanwhile, regarding the implementation of worship, KAJ allows mass services to be held in the church but a limited manner and must follow the provisions set by the church.

"Offline activities are open to parishioners, not yet open to cross parishes", he said.

People who will worship at church are required to use the Belarasa page and the PeduliLindungi application as an effort to provide comfort, security, and solemnity of worship.

People must also have followed the vaccine program. The priest and the parish council will check. Regarding Christmas and New Year's, he said, the liturgy of December 25 and January 1, 2022, had already used the liturgy for Sunday Mass.

The quota of the people is allowed up to 40 percent. However, before the implementation, the parish will conduct a trial with the quota on 27-28 November.

"The parish is required to carry out a trial period of a 40 percent quota starting on Advent Sunday", he said.