COVID-19 situation in Finland looks so much better now -- just 106 people in hospital care and 19 in intensive care -- that we are slowly returning toward "normal" starting next week.
Sunday church services will open to public again, with restrictions depending on the size and space of the church building to comply with the two-meter rule. The Mass used to be the norm, but most Sunday services will probably be Services of the Word due to the Eucharist logistics. If a typical communion rail can accomodate five people two meters apart, to commune 100 people would mean 20 tables and to commune 200, 40 tables. Communion will propably be offered in separate services throughout the week for those in need. The Bishops have issues detailed rules for Eucharistic hygiene, which is also an extra hurdle especially for the traditional "big" Sunday Mass. But we'll see.
No choirs and hymn singing is probably left to the Cantor and the organist.
The best thing is that our "flagship product," the hugely popular confirmation camps, will be allowed to forthgo, with lots of space and outdoor activities. 86% of all young Finns in the age group of 14-16 participate in confirmation training so this is a huge thing and it would have been such a huge loss of opportunity to reach out to our kids if confirmation camps had been cancelled for those born in 2005.
Also, small Bible groups will be allowed to gather and also grief support groups, which too is hugely vital as the corona restrictions in place since mid-March have basically cancelled funerals and, you know, hugs, comfort, human contact so much needed.
Looks like our short summer will offer a breather and fall or winter, in all likelihood, will bring at least some of the restrictions back. But right now, there is a lot to be grateful. So far, we have been spared from the worst; social lockdown has been worth the frustration.
