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A church in Quezon City makes it possible for Catholics to physically attend "Simbang Gabi" and "Misa de Gallo" amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The mass-goers can now attend eucharistic celebrations this Christmas season from the safety of their vehicles. Diocesan Shrine of Jesus the Divine Word on E. Rodriguez Avenue in Quezon City is launching a "drive-by Simbang Gabi."

Source: Diocesan Shrine of Jesus the Divine Word (FB)

In accordance with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF-EID) health and safety protocols against COVID-19, the church created a safe setup for churchgoers. Church personnel has set up outdoor speakers, and a big LED screen at the Christ the King Mission Seminary's parking area inside the church grounds.

"We noticed that on Sunday masses, even though there is a big space inside the shrine, people are still bringing their own monoblocs (plastic chairs). They are just staying outside their cars and listening to our speakers outside the church," said Niño Verzosa, Lay Coordinator of the Diocesan Shrine of Jesus the Divine Word.

Niño added that aside from the audio and video setup, there will be sacristans who will roam the area during the offertory. They have also prepared a space for those who want to receive communion during the mass.

Those without vehicles but still want to join the mass are encouraged to bring their own seats. They have also designated some areas that will hold them.

“They all yearn and they also want to receive communion but don't want to be that exposed. So, we just made a way to balance and fulfill their goals,” he said.

Meanwhile, for those who prefer to stay home, Simbang Gabi and Misa de Gallo at the Shrine of Jesus the Divine Word will also be livestreamed on the GMA Network's Facebook page from December 16 to 24 at 4:30 A.M.

Many dioceses all over the country have suspended mass in March to help curb the spread of the contagious virus. In July, the Philippine government allowed the resumption of religious activities under the more relaxed community quarantine.

Earlier this month, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) issued guidelines for churches and the public to follow for this year's Simbang Gabi celebrations. The church still requires churchgoers to wear face masks, face shields, and observe phyiscal distancing.