Thailand: PM’s Office urges monks to observe new normal
The Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office of Thailand, Anucha Nakasai, has urged Buddhist monks to realign their religious practices with the new normal, to help limit the spread of COVID-19.
Anucha Nakasai has urged Buddhist monks to realign their religious practices with the new normal to help limit the spread of COVID-19. (Photo: NNT)
Bangkok (NNT/VNA) - The Minister attached to the Prime Minister’sOffice of Thailand, Anucha Nakasai, has urged Buddhist monks to realign theirreligious practices with the new normal, to help limit the spread of COVID-19.
Mr. Anucha expressed a concern for Buddhist monks and novices, followingreports that some monks recently tested positive for COVID-19. He urged clergymembers to go about their daily lives in the new normal circumstances, whilestill complying with the rules and regulations of the Sangha Supreme Council ofThailand. They are advised to refrain from holding religious events inhigh-risk provinces and other such activities, such as ordination ceremonies.Temple fairs and other annual, customary events should not be organized at thistime.
People can still give alms to monks and novices as usual, but they have to wearprotective masks and practice social distancing. Monks and novices shouldrefrain from offering blessings after receiving alms.
Since funeral rites cannot be avoided, organisers must follow the public healthmeasures strictly. If the deceased was infected with COVID-19, the casketcannot be open for viewing. Funeral prayers can be conducted before theperson’s portrait.
The private sector and the general public have regularly donated protectivematerials against COVID-19, such as face masks and alcohol gel, to Buddhistmonks in many temples, particularly those in high-risk areas. If monks andnovices show symptoms of COVID-19, such as a high fever, they are advised toseek immediate care from health providers, or call the Department of DiseaseControl’s hotline at 1422 for information and assistance./.
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Anucha Nakasai has urged Buddhist monks to realign their religious practices with the new normal to help limit the spread of COVID-19. (Photo: NNT)
