Ugochukwu Iwuchukwu
The Catholic Diocese of Port Harcourt has temporarily suspended the sign of peace handshake during masses following the spread of coronavirus across the world.
The Catholic Bishop of Port Harcourt, Most Reverend Camillus Etokudoh in a statement said the changes in the celebration of the Holy Mass was aimed at curtailing the possible spread of the virus in Rivers State.
Bishop Etokudoh directed the suspension of parts of the Mass where faithful are meant to shake hands with one another as a sign of peace till further notice.
He also directed that hand washing points be provided at all Catholic Churches in the State, while the holy water vessels that are usually placed at the entrance of the Churches be removed immediately.
The Bishop also called for massive education and enlightenment of the faithful on the most hygienic way of receiving Holy Communion during the Holy Mass.
Bishop Etokudoh, however, urged the faithful not to panic over the presence of the virus but take the situation to God in prayers, saying that God has the power to stop the spread of the virus.
