Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Re: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Update
NSW Health has revised the COVID-19 guidelines for places of worship effective from 12 February 2021.
1) Face masks
NSW Health has advised that face masks will no longer be mandatory in places of worship. However, this practice is still strongly recommended, especially indoors.
2) Places of Worship and Religious Services
The maximum number of people at places of worship and religious services will only be limited by the 2 square metre rule. There is no cap in numbers except based on the 2 square metre rule.
If a place of public worship has separate buildings, the maximum number of people in each separate building is subject to the 2 square metre rule. If there are separate buildings, each building should have a COVID-19 Safety Plan in place.
3) Weddings and Funerals
The cap of up to 300 people attending weddings and funerals remains, provided the 2 square metre rule is adhered to.
4) Choir and Congregational Singing
There has been no change regarding choir and congregational singing arrangements. Up to five singers/performers will be permitted to sing indoors. There will be no maximum cap for outdoor singing. Indoor singing by the congregation is not permitted at this time.
Ash Wednesday
New guidelines for Ash Wednesday, as instructed from the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments, have been shared with clergy and parishes. This year, due to COVID-19, ashes will be sprinkled on the head of each person.
With my prayers during these troubling times,
Very Rev Peter G. Williams
Vicar General & Moderator of the Curia
