Captured by : Se Cathedral at Old Goa initiates a series of steps to enforce a code of conduct
Dress code of conduct at Se Cathedral
THE GOAN NETWORK
OLD GOA
In a bid to prevent visitors from entering the Se Cathedral at Old Goa either indecently attired or violating the sanctity of the monument, church authorities have initiated a series of steps to enforce a dress code of conduct.
Besides installing boards for benefit of visitors on appropriate attire, church authorities have posted two lady staff at the entrance to enforce a dress code and shawls are also being handed out to indecently attired visitors at a nominal fee.
When contacted, Se Cathedral Parish Priest Fr Alfred Vaz confirmed these developments and emphasised the need to maintain sanctity.
“Two lady staff have been stationed at the entrance of the church to keep an eye on tourists entering with short dresses, besides those who create disturbances once inside the church. There are two issues - one is the dress code and second is sanctity for the shrine. Some tourists were found shouting or sleeping on the church pews,” said Fr Vaz.
“The issue was discussed at the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) and it was decided to put up boards for six months,” informed Fr Vaz, adding that staff were later deputed at the entrance of the church.
“The dress code is applicable to locals as well,” clarified Fr Vaz.
“At least six staff are required to deal with the situation; however, due to financial constraints we have started with two staff. During holidays the parishioners volunteer their services,” Fr Vaz said and added that one stays at the door and the other takes a round inside the church. "The side door of the church was closed with the permission of the ASI and this helps in the monitoring process," he added.
