Catholic churches in Lagos have been advised to stop handshakes and hugs during the mass.
The “sign of peace” is a symbolic gesture of the church, which had thrived for decades to encourage communal living among members.
During the sign of peace, faithful either offer handshakes to those seated around them or hug those close to them.
But during mass across Lagos State metropolis, parishioners skipped the tradition, causing drama, murmur and stare among members.
Most individuals simply waved at those who sat beside them and continued with the rest of the programmes.
This came as the Catholic archbishop advised members to stop the tradition to curtail the spread of the virus.
Also, clerics were advised to be cautious when on sick rounds and during the anointing of the sick.
The use of holy water, wherein parishioners deep their hands into a bowl outside churches, has been discontinued till further notice.

Source: http://thenationonlineng.net/new/catholic-churches-stop-handshake/