Six parish churches in the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro have been closed after its priests tested positive for coronavirus.
These parish churches are Jesus Nazareno and San Isidro, both in the city; and Our Lady of Candelaria in Tagoloan, Inmaculada Concepcion in Jasa-an, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Bobontugan, and Santa Cruz in Laguindingan — all in Misamis Oriental province.
In a “motu proprio” letter dated April 27, Archbishop Jose Cabantan said the parish churches will undergo disinfection.
The closure will be in effect for 10 days, from April 28 to May 7.
Cabantan asked the faithful for understanding for the “painful” decision that he made.
“This is our way of showing that we are one with the people, the government and every other person or entity concerned with the overcoming of the spread of the virus of COVID-19,” CBCP News quoted the prelate.
He also appealed for prayers for the recovery of those infected with the virus and that “no other priest may suffer the same fate”, so they will continue serving their ministry.
“I also humbly sincerely thank you for praying for me while I was in quarantine with those living in my residence, and ask you to continue praying for me,” Cabantan said.