Sto. Nino church in Cebu prepare for re-opening after staff test negative for COVID-19
The Augustinian community in Cebu City is preparing for the re-opening of the Basilica del Santo Nino after staff members were confirmed to be free of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
"Based on the latest reports and communication we received from the barangay officials of Brgy. Sto Nino, the personnel from Basilica del Santo Nino who have tested “positive” of COVID 19 are now confirmed COVID-free," Prior Provincial, Fr. Andres D. Rivera Jr., OSA announced through social media.
The iconic centuries-old church located in downtown Cebu City, which is the most popular site for devotees of the Sto. Nino or Holy Infant Jesus in the Visayas, was closed for public worship and veneration as sanitation procedures are being conducted within the premises.
In June this year, Rivera announced that at least five personnel out of 41 at the Basilica del Sto. Nino in Cebu City tested positive for the virus that causes COVID-19.
With the latest laboratory results, preparations are underway for the reopening of the church.
"In line with this, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño (BMSN) and the Pilgrim Center are now being prepared for its re-opening. The confirmed date of the re-opening along with the guidelines and precautionary measures for all the pilgrims and devotees of the Basilica will be officially announced soon by the Office of the Basilica Rector," Rivera said.
"We thank the public for the whole-hearted support, understanding and for all the undying prayers offered," he added.
The Basilica del Sto. Nino is the center of religious activities in the province-wide celebration of the Feast of the Infant Jesus every third Sunday of the month. The activities including the reenactment of the first baptism and seven-kilometer foot procession are attended by thousands every year. -- BAP, GMA News