Jakarta Archdiocese Asks Catholics Not To Go Home For Christmas This Year

Homecoming illustration (Photo: Ministry of PUPR)

JAKARTA - The Secretary General of the Jakarta Archdiocese, Father Adi Prasojo asked Catholics not to go home during the Christmas holidays on December 24 and 25.

"We urge Catholics in the Jakarta Archdiocese and other parts of Indonesia to avoid going home or traveling out of town as much as possible," said Romo Adi in his statement, Monday, December 14.

According to Romo, Catholics can stay in touch with their relatives remotely using the internet network. Because, this can prevent the spread of COVID-19.

"During this pandemic, we continue to celebrate Christmas in a unique and unique way. We can undergo an online Christmas gathering. Let's celebrate the joys of Christmas with simplicity," he said.

Furthermore, Romo Adi said that the Christmas services and celebrations at the Cathedral and Parish Churches this year were held in two ways.

First, the church held a celebration with live streaming and Catholics could join the event from home.

Then, worship and Christmas celebrations are carried out face-to-face. In this particular case, worshipers in the church environment are limited and apply health protocols.

"Carry out strict health protocols. Liturgical servants, priests, officers and people ensure that they attend services in a healthy condition by using masks, washing their hands, and also paying attention to distance," he explained.

Then, the maximum number of people who come to worship comes, which is 20 percent of the quota in the church. The duration of worship is expected to be only 60 minutes. The age limit that is allowed to attend is 18 to 59 years.

"That means there will be modifications to the tradition of the Christmas liturgy while maintaining the sacredness of the Christmas celebrations," said Father Adi.

Then, after running the service, Catholics are expected to return home immediately and not crowd out. Attendees are also asked to register with the church via the website before attending.

"At this time, we allow to celebrate Christmas Eve mass celebrations with a limited quota, a maximum of two worship times. On the 24th there are 2 worship services and on Christmas Day 25 December there are also 2 face-to-face services. Meanwhile, other services are via live streaming. , "he added.