CNA Staff, May 14, 2020 / 14:30 pm
Papal basilicas are considering checking visitors' temperatures as a precaution against the spread of coronavirus when public Masses resume, the Holy See press office said Thursday.
Representatives of the four major Roman basilicas -- St. Peter's, St. Mary Major, St. John Lateran and St. Paul Outside the Walls -- met May 14 under the auspices of the Vatican Secretariat of State, the press office said.
They discussed which protocols to adopt in light of the "second phase" of Italy's lockdown, when public liturgies will be permitted again from May 18 under strict conditions.
Churches in Italy will be required to limit the number of people present – ensuring a one-meter (three feet) distance – and congregants must wear face masks. The church must also be cleaned and disinfected between celebrations.