THE ANGLICAN Diocese of Bendigo says it's promoting good hygiene practices to parishioners in the face of COVID-19.
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But despite the Catholic Church altering its practices to limit the chance of the virus spreading, Anglican Bishop Matt Brain said his church was yet to follow suit.
"I think it's really just about reminding people of good hygiene practices," he said.
"So if people return from places where coronavirus seems to be prevalent and active, they need to be attentive to the health department's advice.
"I've also instructed all priests to demonstrate good hygiene practices during the celebration of the Lord's Supper. So that means washing hands or using alcohol rubs multiple times during the service."
Three people have died from coronavirus in Australia, with more than 90 diagnosed cases throughout the country.
The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference has told parishes to temporarily remove Holy Water from stoups at the doors of churches. There will instead be alcohol-based gels or rubs at the entrances.
Parishioners have also been told to avoid shaking hands during the Sign of Peace, and instead wave, nod, or bow.
The distribution of the Holy Communion has also been altered, with parishes told to give the Eucharist via hand rather than directly to the mouth.
Catholic Bishop of Sandhurst Shane Mackinlay said the church would continue to monitor the situation and introduce further alterations if necessary.
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"We're confident that attending mass is safe but at the same time we're concerned about the unnecessary risk to the congregation," he said.
"We're putting the necessary precautions in place. We're working closely with the government and its health advice and these guidelines have been formulated to take it all into account.
"It's quite a fluid situation that is evolving. As the government advice develops, we'll make further decisions in light of that."
Bishop Mackinlay said the response to the changes from priests and parishioners was positive.
"People are pleased to see that something is happening," he said. "They think it is appropriate and measured - we're taking the message seriously without an overreaction."
Bishop Brain said Anglican parishes had also responded well to the advice messages.
"People are recognising that these are good measures anyway and are glad they are here," he said. "It's a common approach that we can all be active in looking after each other."