Paper short abstract:

In 2020, religious celebrations in Bucharest were greatly affected by restrictions meant to control the Covid-19 pandemic. However, pilgrimages were allowed with restrictive regulations. This presentation focuses on the restrictions, solutions, and reactions to the new situation.

Paper long abstract:

In 2020, religious celebrations in Bucharest were greatly affected by the restrictions meant to control the Covid-19 pandemic. While Easter, the highlight of the Christian ritual year, was celebrated in empty churches during spring lockdown, participation in religious activities were later progressively permitted. During autumn, pilgrimages were allowed, but only in compliance with restrictive regulations. This presentation focuses on the restrictions imposed by public authorities, the solutions found by Church representatives, and the faithful’s reaction to the new situation.

The beginning of the Orthodox liturgical year (September 1st) is marked in Bucharest by a series of pilgrimages, occasioned by feasts for several saints whose relics are venerated in local churches. Some, centuries old, attract thousands of people. The celebrations last several days, during which people await patiently, for hours, in lines, to touch the holy relics.

In 2020, government measures were taken to limit participation to local residents, without consultation with Church authorities. This caused great discontent. However, both the Church representatives and the faithful adapted to the restrictions. People’s IDs were checked, while physical distance and mask use were reinforced. The time spent awaiting in line was reduced by an increased pace of the crowd enforced by police, and the flow of people was directed. Reliquaries were disinfected and the time of exposure was adapted to obey the night lock-down. Despite this, the number of faithful in attendance was not substantially less than in previous years. With few exceptions, most people showed resolution and acceptance of the new rules.