Abstract

The Catholic Church has been always active in caring for the sick, especially those suffering from infectious epidemic diseases. The Covid 19 pandemic that erupted in March 2020 introduced numerous restrictions on the freedom of religion, including unprecedented restrictions on Divine worship. This article aims to analyze the reactions of the Episcopal Conferences of Poland and of the C zech Republic to the limitation of the faithful in their ability to participate in liturgical assemblies during the first period of the discussed pandemic. Ability of the faithful to participate in Divine worship was significantly restricted by the Polish state
authorities, in particular during the Eastertide. Czech public authorities banned the faithful from attending church services. Episcopal conferences accepted the restrictions and sanitary regulations issued by state authorities. Particular diocesan bishops granted dispensations in accordance with the canon law from physical attendance at church services. On-line ‘participation’ in liturgical services, broadcasted by media and social media, was rather encouraged.