LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Some Lexington area churches are changing their Sunday practices as more Coronavirus cases are expected in Kentucky.
LEX18 attended mass at the Cathedral of Christ the King on Sunday where new rules have been put into place at the recommendation of the Diocese of Lexington.
Holy water was absent from the Church to prevent the spread of germs.
During communion, ministers put bread into churchgoers' hands with no option to have it placed on the tongue.
Instead of drinking from one communion cup, there was no wine at all.
"I like that decision," churchgoer, Barbara McGovern, said. "I think its a really good one. It isn't necessary to have the wine, and it's just safer for everyone."
Physical contact was also discouraged, so instead of shaking hands or hugging, members of the congregation waved or gave verbal hellos to their neighbors.
"It really dawned on me that this is here," said churchgoer Linda Burch. "We've got to be careful and take all precautions."
Church leadership also took extra time to sanitize their hands before and during the service.
Other religious groups around Lexington are also taking precautions.
According to Rabbi Shlomo Litvin, Judaism already mandates hand washing multiple times a day. He is encouraging members to engage in that custom.
Also, Litvin said "at-risk" members who are practicing self isolation can receive groceries and other necessities from community members.
According to Litvin, no programs are being cancelled at this time.
The Sikh Temple of the Bluegrass will also be staying open.
Members are encouraged to stay home if sick, wash hands frequently, avoid touching their face with unwashed hands. They are also asked to disinfect surfaces used regularly, use hand sanitizer, avoid close contact with someone who is sick, and pass all precautionary members to family and friends.
The Presbyterian Church has alsoreleased guidelines for members.
LEX18 will update this piece as we learn about more measures religious institutions are taking.
