Church news update: Churches reopen in Germany – but no singing allowed

Some German churches have reopened on Sunday after being shut for more than a month because of Covid-19.

Worshippers will have to maintain social distancing and wear masks, according to the German broadcaster Deutsche Welle.

Singing will be forbidden amid concerns that it causes the virus to spread more easily, and physical contact – like the handshakes that take place in Catholic services – will be prohibited.

Cologne Cathedral, one of the world’s largest churches, has held a service for people connected with the church.

The ceremony is limited to 122 people, a restriction which will also apply to public services that begin on Wednesday.