DISINFO: Brussels strikes Christians over holidays, recommending ban on Christmas services
SUMMARY
Brussels strikes Christians for the holidays. The quasi-official rumour that those in the European Commission want to “recommend” the ban on Christmas services (ie to move online). Well, the rumour is no longer a rumour, but news transmitted by the media. /…/ In conclusion: another step in the “battle against the Christian Faith“
RESPONSE
The statement was made on December 2 and refers to the draft of Anti-Covid Recommendations, adopted by the European Commission the next day, on December 3. In fact, the document does not contain any specific reference to religious services or Christmas, does not prohibit anything, but recommends states to maintain and even intensify anti-Covid measures. "Provide guidance and advice on overnight visitors and visits to households (particularly in case of night curfews). Encourage the organization of online social gatherings and events, such as workplace end-of-year celebrations. In case of ceremonies, consider avoiding large services or using online, TV or radio broadcasts, allocating specific spots for close families ('household bubbles#) to sit together, and banning of communal singing. The use of masks is particularly relevant during these types of gatherings," it is said in the Recommendations of the European Commission.
The draft of these Recommendations was used by the pro-Kremlin media to promote the narrative that the EU is an anti-Christian space. See here a similar case claiming that the Council of Europe and the European Union are not a bearer of Christian moral values.