Reaction to her decisions Permanent Holy Synod came from the government which expresses the hope that Church to «recognize the critical nature of these moments for society, just as it has done responsibly up to now.».
As stated in its announcement: «Throughout all stages of the pandemic, the government has been in constant consultation with the Church regarding liturgical matters, with respect for both public health and people’s faith. In this context, church services were held Christmas and New Year's and provision was made for the operation of the Epiphany.
The need to ensure that the steady progress made in the fight against June, particularly in view of the reopening of the schools, has mandated a return to the previous set of restrictions on economic activity and social life for the current week, including the provision that Epiphany services be held without the presence of the faithful. Of course, the possibility remains for the faithful to engage in occasional individual prayer within the churches.
The Permanent Holy Synod, by its decision, does not consent to the new measures concerning liturgical services. However, the law cannot be applied arbitrarily so that those who disagree may simply ignore it. We hope that the Church will recognize the critical nature of these times for society, just as it has acted responsibly up to now. The implementation of preventive and protective measures is not only an obligation but also an act of social solidarity and responsibility on the part of all of us.
