Following a teleconference on Wednesday, the Holy Synod of the Church of Greece has announced that Easter services will be held behind closed doors without a congregation as of Palm Sunday on April 12.
Archbishop of Athens Ieronymos said the services will be attended by the minimum number of clergy and chanters, with all expected to declare “on their honour” that they are asymptomatic.
“These services must be broadcast live on TV, radio and the internet,” Archbishop Ieronymos added.
In a statement following the four hour conference, the Holy Synod also urged worshippers to stay at home and comply with the lockdown imposed by the state to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
The move comes after the Greek government originally ordered the suspension of all church services, allowing churches to remain open for private prayer only.
But Education and Religious Affairs Minister, Niki Kerameus, had indicated in recent days that it would consider allowing services to take place behind closed doors and be broadcast for worshippers to follow from home.
READ MORE: Greek government suspends all services of religious worship
