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Munich (dpa / lby) - The Evangelical Church in Bavaria has announced the cancellation of all late Christmas masses and Christmas vespers due to the strict exit restrictions from 9 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
"This is a painful procedure for us," said a statement on Tuesday.
"Nevertheless, we accept it and see it as part of a major effort in which we are all helping together to respond responsibly to the challenges of the pandemic with effective means."
Right now people need strengthening and messages of hope.
"Beyond all the restrictions that we have to adjust to at Christmas services, one thing is certain: the Christmas message will find its way into our hearts," said Regional Bishop Heinrich Bedford-Strohm.
"We have been working on it lovingly for weeks."
The Christmas services should therefore be broadcast on many channels: digitally, streamed, via YouTube, on television and as a service to go.
In addition, there are carefully prepared face-to-face services in large and small churches, often indoors, sometimes outdoors - always within the framework of state requirements and with a tried and tested hygiene concept.
“In the light of these tried and tested protective measures, the celebration of these services is also responsible.
All of this will ensure that this special Christmas will also be a source of strength for many people in difficult times, ”said Bedford-Strohm, who is also chairman of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD).
“The great common will to contain the virus is part of Christmas and its message this year.
Because the love and hope that is connected with this message becomes concrete in the fact that we show consideration for one another and protect life. "
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Evangelical Church of Bavaria