This archive report was first published on 19 July 2020.
Nairobi Catholic Archbishop John Cardinal Njue on July 19, 2020, presided over the first Sunday Mass to be held after the government allowed in-person worship in strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols.
Cardinal Njue acknowledged that the last three months had been an extraordinary time for Catholic faithfuls in the country, who had to do without public worship and sacraments.
"We thank God that we have been allowed to have in-person worship such as this," Cardinal Njue said in his homily. "We welcome all to this service, we know and recognize it as a blessing."
On July 6, President Kenyatta announced the phased reopening of places of worship in the country under strict health ministry guidelines, which limit gatherings to 100 congregants for a period not exceeding an hour.
Other measures include clearly labelled sitting positions to ensure social distancing of 1.5 metres between congregants, while singing will be limited to liturgical action.
Parishioners were also required to wear face masks that cover the nose and mouth, and thermal guns were used to scan body temperature before entry.
