Metropolitan Arsenios of Austria, after consultation with the competent authorities, announced the following instructions for the church attendance that will apply in all parishes of Austria from December 7, 2020:
- The religious services will be held again in the presence of the faithful, after a relevant consultation with the Secretariat of the Metropolis of Austria or the priests of the parishes.
- While inside the church, the nose and mouth cover is mandatory.
- Those present inside the church will keep a distance of 1.5 m unless they are persons who live together.
- Before entering the church, the faithful will use the available disinfectant liquid.
- Choirs of psaltes or faithful are still now allowed to participate in religious services.
- Weddings, baptisms and other non-obligatory services are suspended.
- Social events and activities such as excursions and treat offerings will not be held.
- The Church will continue to pray for the health and salvation of the sick and those staying at home for health reasons.
Metropolitan Arsenios of Austria urged the faithful to care for, protect and support each other in these daily circumstances before Christmas Day.