On Monday, January 11, 2021, the 27th session of the SBC Permanent Council took place. The bishops got acquainted with the implementation of pastoral care during the epidemic and the course of preparation for the first holy communions and confirmations in Slovenian parishes.

The bishops adopted a statement regarding vaccination against COVID-19. They expressed their support for all those who will decide to get vaccinated after consulting their physician.

They paid special attention to the year of St. Joseph and the year of the family, which will begin on March 19 this year. The bishops decided that the topic of this year's Theological Course will be this. The course will take place on Wednesday, March 10, 2021, online in a single lecture and talk. The theme of the course will be The Role of Fathers and Men in Families and Their Spirituality in the Light of St. Joseph.

Given the epidemiological situation, the bishops also decided to extend the term of office of the Parish Pastoral Councils members. Elections for members of the Parish Pastoral Councils will probably take place in the autumn of 2021. Until then, the Parish Pastoral Council will meet regularly and operate in their current composition and depending on the situation. At the end of the session, the bishops also approved a new form of prayer for health during the epidemic, available on the Catholic Church website.

Dr Tadej Strehovec,

Secretary-General of SBC