CBCP explains guidelines on baptisms, weddings, confessions

The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has prepared a set of safety guidelines for religious gatherings.

Fr. Jerome Secillano, executive secretary of the CBCP’s permanent committee on public affairs, explained some of these guidelines on GMA-7’s “Unang Hirit” on Thursday, including the changes to be expected when it comes to baptisms, weddings, and confessions.

For baptisms, only the infant, the parents, the ninongs and the ninangs are expected to attend. All attendees will be required to wear face masks and have their temperature taken before entering the venue. “Kinalakailangan na hindi tayo dapat nag-e-exceed doon sa 37.8 na body temperature,” he said.

Confessions, on the other hand, shall take place in an “open” venue as the priest and the penitent will be required to maintain a certain distance from one another. All participants will also be required to wear masks.

As for weddings, Secillano said the guidelines allow a “simple” ceremony wherein only the couple, their parents, the ninong and the ninang are to attend. Yes, just a pair of godparents, and there won't be an entourage anymore. 

READ: CBCP has health guidelines ready if religious gatherings allowed again

Secillano is part of the technical working group that recommended that public religious celebrations be allowed under the modified enhanced community quarantine in Metro Manila, provided that social distancing and other health protocols continue to be practiced. – Margaret Claire Layug/RC, GMA News