SENTINELS OF THE FLOCK

 By Dr. Fabian Cadiz, FDD, PFN, PGK

    On Sept. 16, 2021, the National Capital Region was placed under GCQ Alert Level 4. Despite the high number of cases in Metro-Manila, the IATF is experimenting with a modified form of restriction. Instead of a NCR- wide lockdown, small area,  localized or granular form of restrictions, were imposed in areas where there are high cases of Civid19 identified.

    It also recognized the level of protection against COVID19 of vaccinated individuals by allowing them more freedom of movement. 

    In applying these new strategies, the government allowed the church to open their doors to vaccinated parishioners, with ages ranging from 18 to 65 y/o up to a maximum of 10% of its sitting capacity. 

    The parish priest, Fr Rowie Reyes, again turned to the Knights of Columbus Council 7631 and Marian Assembly to help him impose the IATF guidelines in preventing COVID19 from infecting his flock. WGK SK Dads Eguia and WFN SK Toti Dulay immediately heeded the request and mobilized the brods to become sentinels of his churchgoing flock.

    With this mandate, the KNIGHTS manned the entrances of the church to make sure that the mass goers are registered, temperature monitored , practice physical distancing while seated in the pews, with face masks and face shields. After the mass, the KNIGHTS make sure that the pews and floorings are meticulously cleaned and disinfected.

    During the sermon, Fr Rowie recognized the efforts and sacrifices of the brother knights in implementing the IATF guidelines, unmindful of the dangers of being infected by the dreaded virus. For which the mass going flock nodded their heads and clapped their hands in appreciation.

    At the end of the mass, while exiting the doors of the church, the flock again,  expressed their appreciation by saying thank you to the brother knights  for protecting them against COVID19....truly the Knights of Columbus are the Sentinels of the Flock!

    VIVAT JESUS!