As you know, the Australian Federal Government recently announced the beginning of easing of restrictions from 15 May 2020. This is following a three-step plan, of which step one is presently being activated.
It is important to note that this three-step plan is dependent on there not being any major flare-ups of cases, and in the event of such unfortunate possibility, these steps may be delayed or even possibly reversed partially or fully.
However, we are hopeful that things progress as planned. Another important point is to note that even at stage three, the number of people able to gather inside for a church gathering will be 100, which is still well below the numbers we regularly have on weekends. Stages one and two are even less than this, at 10 and 20 people plus social distancing.
Given this, we are presently assuming that we may be one of the later groups to be able to resume our normal schedules and possibly no earlier than July at best. This may change, but we do want to caution against any jumping to conclusions.
We understand the desire of everyone to return to the Masses and sacraments, but we continue to cooperate with the policies developed to ensure the health and wellbeing of everyone.
Presently, the Queensland Government has announced the implementation of step one. There will be an easing of restrictions from 11:59pm on 15 May which will allow for gatherings of up to 10 people for weddings, places of worship and religious ceremonies. Funerals will be increased to a maximum capacity of 20 people indoors and 30 people outdoors.
This news requires further consultation in regards to implementation for parishes and workplaces. A statement will be released from the Archbishop’s office sometime this week, to outline how these new guidelines will be implemented within the Archdiocese of Brisbane.
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