By Dan Robin Santos

Published on June 5, 2024

ANTIPOLO CITY, PHILIPPINES – The Diocese of Antipolo, under the guidance of Most Rev. Ruperto C. Santos, D.D., has ordered to ban the celebration of Masses in private chapels, aimed at fostering greater unity and communal worship within the parish communities.

The new directives were outlined in a circular letter released on June 5, 2024, following the Board of Consultors Meeting held on June 3, 2024.

The memorandum, addressed to all parish priests in the diocese, emphasizes the importance of communal worship and solidarity among parishioners.

Bishop Santos stated, “In our ongoing efforts to foster unity within our parish communities and ensure the proper celebration of the Sacraments, we are implementing new regulations regarding the celebration of Masses in private chapels within the Diocese of Antipolo.”

Effective immediately, the following directives have been issued:

1. Sunday Masses: The celebration of Sunday Masses in private chapels is no longer permitted. All faithful are encouraged to participate in the Sunday Eucharist at their parish churches. This measure aims to enhance communal worship and strengthen the sense of solidarity among parishioners.
2. Masses on Special Occasions: It is mandatory to inform the parish priest of the parish where the chapel is located to ensure proper coordination and that the liturgical and pastoral needs of the communities are appropriately met.

Bishop Santos explained that these regulations aim to strengthen the parishes and foster a deeper sense of community and belonging among all the faithful.

“The intent behind these regulations is to strengthen our parishes and foster a deeper sense of community and belongingness among all the faithful,” he noted.