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Kota Kinabalu: Masses and other gatherings in the archdiocese have been suspended with immediate effect until April 1 due to the Covid-19 that has been declared by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a pandemic.

Various parishes shall make arrangements for Live Broadcast of Masses in various languages. Catholics in the Archdiocese may follow any of such broadcasts via the Internet. An example of such service is provided by St Peter Claver Parish in Ranau, going by the call name of Cahaya Kinabalu.

Archbishop John Wong said this measure has been taken in accordance to advice his church has received from State officials of the Ministry of Health. He noted that the Sabah Government has also issued a statement that all gatherings involving more than 50 people must be postponed until further notice.

Hence, all Masses, meetings and gatherings such as catechism classes, RCIA sessions, Penitential services and Stations of the Cross on Fridays during this season of Lent, and other programmes and activities of the church in all parishes of the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu shall  no longer be held, he said in a statement.

“In the case of weddings and funerals, they may be conducted privately with guests limited to the immediate family members and close friends and those concerned are to contact and seek further details and advice from their respective parish priest,” he said.

As for any other Sacraments, the faithful are advised to contact the parish office and parish priests are required to take necessary health precautions in administering the Sacraments.