Places of worship allowed to open under Level 3 lockdown
From Monday, churches, mosques, temples and other recognised places of worship will be allowed to open.
President Cyril Ramaphosa said people will be allowed to worship again under the same roof when we shift to lockdown Level 3 on Monday, 1 June.
But permission to due so comes with strict rules, as services will be limited to 50 people.
"Churches, synagogues, mosques, temples and other recognised places of worship may resume services, but these will be limited in size to 50 people or less depending on the space available," he said.
READ: South Africa's COVID-19 death toll increases to 542
Ramaphosa addressed the nation on Wednesday night after meeting with religious leaders. He also led the call for a national day of prayer.
He said social distancing must be observed. All worshippers will have to wear face masks.
"All religious organisations must put protocols in place for, among other things, thoroughly cleaning and sanitising places for worship before and after services.
"Our faith communities must ensure that any religious rituals that carry even the slightest possibility of exposing worshippers to risk should be avoided."
Ramaphosa said religious leaders will now be recognised as essential workers.
"Our religious leaders will be recognised as essential religious frontline workers for purposes of spiritual counselling to members of their faith organisations."
