(ANSA) - Rome, April 27 - Italy's bishops have protested the government's keeping a ban on Masses even as it eases many restrictions, including on funerals, as coronavirus lockdown is gradually lifted from May 4.
The new government decree does not allow gatherings for Masses but only gatherings of up to 15 people for funerals.
The Italian Bishops Conference (CEI) protested accusing the government of violating freedom to worship, a right guaranteed by Italy's Constitution.
The premier's office said late Sunday it had "noted" the CEI's position and a "protocol" would be drawn up in the coming days "that will permit, as soon as possible, the participation of the faithful in liturgical celebrations in conditions of maximum security".
This will mean wearing facemasks and keeping a safe social distance.
But the government's technical and scientific committee spoke of "critical issues that cannot be eliminated" and said the earliest date for a possible rethink would be May 25.
Italy's Muslims are all chafing at the continued ban on religious gatherings too.
But Italian Jews said Monday they would obey a ban on religious gatherings apart from funerals saying that "lives come first" amid the coronavirus emergency.
The head of the Union of Italian Jewish Communities (UCEI), Noemi Di Segni, said "the Italians Jews and their institutional representatives will scrupulously adhere to what has been laid down (in the government's lockdown-easing decree) with great realism and sense of responsibility".
She said all religious communities "must be aware of the gravity of the moment and pull together, avoiding polemics and contrast that distract us from the primary goal of safeguarding the life and health of all citizens".