The introduction of sanitary norms in the performance of divine services, during the epidemic of COVID-19

Abstract

The study recorded a rather intense and ambiguous reaction of the Church to the outbreak of a new viral disease. Already in the early stages of the development and spread of the epidemic, people (clerics and laity) were divided into two groups, those who were concerned about safety and were ready to compromise, and those for whom what was happening did not correlate with their worldview, the religious picture of the world. The division of positions that emerged exists to this day. But it is worth noting that in addition to mutual criticism, there was also some productive teamwork. Various volunteer movements, humanitarian aid, support lines, and online broadcasts of worship services have been created. Of course, there were also differences in how one church or another responded to the outbreak of the epidemic and what changes it made to its interior life in response to the situation.