Abidjan, 16 May, 2020 / 2:00 am (ACI Africa).
Following the decision by the government of Ivory Coast to ease restrictions put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19, Catholic Bishops in the West African nation have announced the lifting of the suspension on the celebration of Mass in public effective May 17 and directed Priests to ensure those in attendance do not exceed 200.
“Taking into consideration new measures adopted by the Government following the National Security Council meeting held Thursday, May 14, the Episcopal Conference of Ivory Coast (CECCI) hereby authorizes the resumption of Sunday and daily Eucharistic celebrations with the participation of a number of faithful not exceeding 200 persons, starting this Sunday, 17 May 2020,” the members of CECCI said in a Press Release issued Friday, May 15.
They added in reference to the celebration of public Masses, “We appeal to the responsibility of the Parish Priests and the faithful for a rigorous organization of these celebrations in conformity with the measures in force.”
The West African country has recorded at least 2017 cases of COVID-19, 24 deaths and 942 recoveries.
In their collective statement, the Bishops call for a “resumption of all pastoral activities from this Sunday 17 May 2020 throughout the national territory, including catechesis, meetings of prayer groups and SCCs, the celebration of the other sacraments and funerals.”