This formalizes an instruction given by the Archbishop of Salerno.

Newsroom (January 11, 2022, 7:08 PM, Gaudium Press) The diocese of Teano-Calvi, in southern Italy, has banned unvaccinated priests from giving communion to their faithful. According to Bishop Giacomo Cirulli, the measure is due to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant, which, according to several authoritative sources, has mild symptoms.

Bishop Cirulli’s directive also indicates that the sacred vessels containing the hosts must remain covered during the celebration.

This is the same measure recently adopted by Most Rev. Andrés Bellandi, Archbishop of Salerno-Campagna-Acerno, who also invited unvaccinated priests not to give communion.

The so-called Omicron variant is spreading rapidly in Italy, as is occurring in many places.

Bishop Cirulli also encouraged the faithful to keep social distance during masses.

Compiled by Zephania Gangl