CHANCERY NOTICE

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

In light of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Malaysia's decision to revoke the general dispensation to attend Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation with effect from Palm Sunday 2023, the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur has updated its guidelines concerning the attendance at Mass in churches and other church related events. The following adjustments

Face Mask

It is no longer compulsory to wear a face mask to enter the church for liturgical celebrations and other events. However, using a face mask is strongly encouraged for persons who may be vulnerable to the coronavirus as well as those with flu-like symptoms.

Holy Water Fonts

The holy water fonts will be refilled beginning with the Easter Vigil service, when water is blessed. To prevent contamination of any form, the holy water fonts must be cleaned regularly.

Holy Communion

Holy Communion will continue to be given on the hand until further notice.

Holy Communion to the Sick and Homebound

Priests and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion may resume home visitations to the sick and homebound to administer the sacraments. To safeguard the elderly and vulnerable, they are kindly requested to wear face masks when they visit these homes.

Catechism Classes

There is no requirement for Catechism students to wear face masks for classes. Those who wish to wear a face mask may do so. Where possible, teachers must ensure that the classrooms are appropriately ventilated with fresh air.

Other Activities

Other activities such as coffee mornings, fellowships, gatherings, and processions are permitted. It is advised that these gatherings take place either outdoors or in sufficiently ventilated rooms or halls.

BEC Gatherings

BEC gatherings may resume with the homeowners' consent. Smaller gatherings are recommended, especially in confined settings.

Easter Triduum

The liturgies of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, the Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday will be celebrated as prescribed by the church. The only exception is that, on Good Friday, when approaching the cross individually for adoration, kissing the cross is not permitted. Instead, reverence to the cross may be shown by a simple genuflection or bow.

Public Safety

Those who are feeling unwell, especially those who have a persistent cough or the flu, should consider staying at home and participating in an online Mass.

As for the MySejahtera App and Social Distancing requirements, we have also updated the guidelines to reflect the following practices, which are already in place:

MySejahtera App

Those entering the church do not need to check in with the MySejahtera App. Temperature checks and displaying of vaccination status are not required to enter the church.

Social Distancing

There is no need for social distancing when seated in the church. It is recommended that the churches, even those with structural limitations, find ways to have adequate fresh air ventilation.

Recognising the continuing presence of Covid-19 in our midst, we encourage appropriate self-precautionary measures as outlined above to be taken while keeping in mind the needs of the most vulnerable members of our parish community.

With you, we rejoice in the return to gathering in person to worship our Lord on Sundays and holy days of obligation.

CHANCERY NOTICE

Rev Fr Dr Clarence Devadass

Chancellor

Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur