B.C. to allow worship in-person for limited time, with restrictions

VICTORIA (NEWS 1130) — Restrictions on in-person, indoor religious gatherings are being temporarily eased in B.C., health officials announced Thursday.

Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix described the limited way in which these gatherings — which have been banned since November, 2020 — can proceed under a variance to the Provincial Health Order. 

The changes are in effect between March, 28 and May, 13. During that time, indoor services will be allowed on four days. Multiple services are allowed on these days, provided there is enough time between them to make sure groups don’t mingle.

“Each faith can identify the days most appropriate for their faith – whether for Easter, Passover, Ramadan or Vaisakhi,” reads a statement from Henry and Dix.

“The maximum capacity is 50 people, or 10 per cent of the worship space capacity – whatever is less. There are a number of safety requirements and protocols that must be met by worship service organizers and attendees alike.”

With indoor relgious variance services DBH says they will be able to have more than one on the specified day but will have to ensure a duration between them so there is no mixing of groups.#bcpoli #covid19 @NEWS1130

— LizaYuzda (@LizaYuzda) March 25, 2021

Organizers of services are required to warn people over 70, and those who are medically vulnerable or immunocompromised about attending any gathering.

“A person organizing a worship service must caution the following people about attending an in-person worship service because of their higher risk of suffering from serious complications of COVID,” the variance reads.

Pre-registration is required in order to attend so contact-tracing can be done, and capacity can be controlled. The variance also spells out requirements for masks, social distancing, and hand sanitizer. Windows should be kept open to improve ventilation. Choirs are not allowed, but soloists or musical groups with five or fewer people are permitted. Weddings funerals and baptisms ate still not allowed.

Any gathering or socializing before, during, or after the service is forbidden.

“A participant must disperse immediately after a worship service, and must not congregate with other participants who are leaving the service, or arriving to attend a subsequent service.”

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