A Catholic archbishop in Nigeria has ordered the sign of peace to be dropped from mass to stop the spread of a deadly virus.
Ebola has now killed more than 1-thousand people - with a number of cases in Nigeria.
Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins said precautions had to be taken to contain the disease which is sweeping across parts of West Africa.
Yesterday a priest who was working in Liberia died after being flown home to Madrid for treatment.
Fr Miguel Pajares was the first person treated for Ebola in Europe.
Archbishop Alfred, from the Lagos Diocese, said: "Taking into consideration the fact that this rite is optional, we shall henceforth omit it, i.e., not invite people to offer the sign of peace."
He's also suggested people collecting offertory money should wear gloves and priests should avoid touching tongues when giving Holy Communion.
Holy water fonts have also been suspended.
A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.
Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.
For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.
Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.
Support Us