Alappuzha:In an exemplary decision, Kerala's Alappuzha Latin Catholic Church has decided to cremate bodies of COVID-19 victims in the Church cemetery in compliance with the Government's guidelines.
The Church has decided to follow the COVID protocol in the cremation process, while it will also be in accordance with the faith.
The Bishop James Anapparambil said the diocese had decided to cremate COVID-19 victims and inter ash in the respective church cemetery.
"The ashes collected after the cremation process would be buried as per the faith and religious rituals in the Church Cemetery," the Bishop said.
A directive to this effect has also been issued by the Bishop to all parishes under the Latin Church eparchy.
According to sources, special arrangements will be made at the Parish Cemetery to facilitate cremation as per COVID protocol. Two priests of the diocese have been deputed to oversee the cremation procedures.
As per the new decision, the Church was to cremate the dead bodies of two persons on Tuesday. One of the dead bodies has been cremated.
The cremation of dead bodies as per COVID protocol has been a challenge owing to water stagnation and other issues in Alappuzha district. Following this, Bishop James has been discussing a practical solution to the problem with the other priests in the diocese, Parish members and administration officials.
Alappuzha District administration lauded the decision by the Latin Church diocese.
"The diocese’s decision, on cremating the dead bodies of COVID patients, is exemplary. The Church diocese’s decision will lead to many changes in our society," Alappuzha District Collector, A Alexander said.
The District administration officials had also discussed the matter with the Latin Church Bishop in the last few days.
"The district administration officials would help in ensuring that the cremation is conducted fully complying with the COVID protocol. It will also be in accordance with the religious faith and without hurting anyone’s sentiments," Alexander added.
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