The Latin Patriarchate has announced the restoration of Holy Masses to the period preceding the spread of Corona pandemic due to the stability of health conditions.

A memorandum issued by Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem His Beatitude Pierbattista Pizzaballa states: “Due to the alarming spread of the Corona pandemic more than a year ago, various restrictions were imposed in all public places, including churches, in order to contain the spread of the epidemic as much as possible; and directives were issued regarding liturgical celebrations. Apart from the closure of places of worship, which were later reopened, there were restrictions to be followed by everyone including refraining from shaking hands when exchanging greetings, giving the Holy Communion in the form of bread only on hand,  and emptying the bowl of Holy Water placed at the Church entrance."

The memorandum adds: "As the epidemiological situation has become more stable and  is being contained, we announce to you that the previous regulations are null and void, implying the possibility to return to normal practices during liturgical celebrations. This means that we can now restore normal exchange of greetings, and receiving the  Holy Communion in the two forms by leaving the choice to the faithful either to take it on hand or on tongue. It is also possible to restore the Holy Water at the entrance of church.”

The memorandum concludes, "Nevertheless, we must continue to pay attention to the precautionary measures issued by the responsible civil authorities. The priests and officials must pay ultimate care and attention to applying the regulations issued by the civil authorities."