COVID-19 vaccination

In a separate 5-4 decision issued the same day, the court said the vaccine mandate for most health care workers could go into effect.

The Supreme Court will hear arguments Jan. 7, 2022, about the legality of the Biden administration’s efforts to address the coronavirus pandemic with workplace vaccine mandates.

Churches throughout the region, including South Africa, are using parish structures to “address vaccine hesitancy and dispel myths,” said Bishop Sipuka, who is also president of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference.

Vaccinations are not required for students and adults in diocesan Catholic schools “but are strongly encouraged for those eligible to receive them,” according to the 2021-2022 Catholic school opening guidance from the Diocese of St. Cloud sent Aug. 18 to Catholic school principals and pastors.

The government decree on mandatory vaccinations for school personnel was signed Aug. 6, the same day that it became obligatory for anyone over the age of 12 to show a “green pass” proof of vaccination or of a negative COVID-19 test to eat indoors at restaurants, enter a movie theater or visit museums, including the Vatican Museums.

Cardinal Stella said priests ministering “on the front lines” in parishes, prisons and hospitals should be considered at-risk, requiring priority COVID-19 vaccination.

Celebrating his name day, the feast of St. George, Pope Francis was serenaded by hundreds of Rome’s most vulnerable residents and the people who assist them.

To make sure COVID-19 vaccines reach everyone, Catholic health care officials are working to overcome hurdles of bias, language barriers, and technology and transportation access.