On the evening of Thursday, May 28th the clergy of the Northeast American Diocese of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church gathered for a virtual conference to discuss the process in how to open up parishes in the Diocese.
Under the leadership of His Grace Zachariah Mar Nicholovos, clergy shared and discussed some of the new policies and guidelines for the phased re-opening of parishes throughout the Northeast American Diocese.
Our Metropolitan and over fifty priests of the Diocese reaffirmed their love for our faithful, ensuring they all remain safe and healthy. It is out of this love and concern, parishes will begin to reopen according to appropriate guidelines and precautions.
Diocese Issues Guidelines for Re-opening
A Kalpana with guidelines for a phased re-opening of parishes in the Northeast American Diocese was issued on May 29, 2020. The Diocesan Metropolitan, His Grace Zachairah Mar Nicholovos, set forth these guidelines after a video conference with the Diocesan Clergy on Thursday, May 28th.
The Metropolitan’s Kalpana is not intended to force our parishes to conduct church services. His Grace writes “Although it is our desire to return back to the way things used to be, it is imperative we take necessary precautions so we can open our parishes safely and responsibly.” The decision to restart church services are to be made by the Vicar/Assistant Vicar, in consultation with the parish committee, as per local government directives.
His Grace also emphasized guidelines issued by the Public Health Agency of Canada, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are to be adhered to by the parishes in the respective countries our DIocese.
Please read the Kalpana attached herewith.
