TANZANIA: Conference Issues Liturgy Guidelines for Holy Week and Easter

By Sarah Pelaji

The Catholic Church in Tanzania has issued guidelines on the Holy Week and Easter liturgical celebrations in response to the acceleration Coronavirus infection.

Speaking to the press in his office, the Secretary-General of the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) Fr. Dr Charles Kitima, called on members of the Catholic Church to accept the changes but realizing that it does not intend to change the liturgy and doctrines of Catholic Church. Rather, they should realize that these guidelines are necessary for the time being, with the good intent of safeguarding the health of all believers who are important in the advancement of the Church.

He said that from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, Catholics in the country will join with fellow Christians around the world in reflecting on the passion, death and resurrection of the Jesus Christ.

“On Palm Sunday, Catholic Bishops have stated that the Holy Mass will be held as usual, but without procession. During Holy Thursday, there will be no act of washing Christians feet. This does not take away the symbol of humility and love that Christ showed to His apostles by washing their feet,” he emphasized.

On Good Friday bishops have stated that only a priest who will lead the service will kiss the cross, the lay faithful will only bow or genuflect towards the Crucifix. However, services and masses should be short.

He also said that the Bishops have composed special prayer on Coronavirus to be recited by all dioceses in the country. Therefore, on Good Friday during the prayers of lay faithful, this special prayer will also be recited.

Easter Vigil, there will be no Sacrament of Baptism. The dioceses or parishes will arrange another date for Baptism.

He has called on believers, who feel sick, not to hide at home but instead, go to the hospital for testing and where necessary, treatment. “Also, anyone who feels sick should not go to church but stay at home and participate the Holy Mass through radio and television,” he advised.

“The Catholic Church in Tanzania has radios which cover almost all dioceses in the country. Those who are sick or decide to stay at home will be able to follow the liturgical celebrations through the Catholic media,” he said.

Different dioceses in the country have issued guidelines and the bishops insist that the Parish priests must disinfect the church buildings and ensure that the faithful wash their hands before they enter in.