Thamarassery Bishop Issues Directives on Photography During Church Rituals

The Thamarassery diocese has issued a directive stating that it is desirable for Christian believers to be the ones taking videos or photos during church rituals. Bishop Mar Remigiose Inchananiyil of Thamarassery provided these instructions, titled ‘Church Rituals – Guidelines for Photographers’. The directive specifies that “it is more desirable that those taking video or photos inside the church during rituals are Christian believers. If they are non-Christians, they must be knowledgeable about the Holy Qurbana and the sanctity of the rituals.”

The guidelines also stipulate that photographers and videographers must enter the church dressed in appropriate and respectable attire, suitable for the sanctity of the sacred space.

**Full List of Directives Issued by Thamarassery Bishop Remigiose Inchananiyil:**

1. If photographers/videographers are present for church rituals, the head of the family must inform the parish vicar of their names in advance. The family head must also communicate the vicar’s instructions to those coming for photo/video shoots beforehand.
2. During rituals, only two photographers and two videographers are permitted inside the church for filming.
3. Photographers/videographers must enter the church dressed in appropriate and respectful attire suitable for the sanctity of the church. They are not permitted to enter the altar (Madbaha).
4. Photographers/videographers should not obstruct the timely commencement of rituals. They should focus on taking only essential photos during the rituals. Filming should not interrupt the sermon.
5. When taking photos and videos of the rituals, there should be no disrespect towards the rituals or the church.
6. During rituals, video/photo recording with powerful lights is not permitted inside the church.
7. Video recording and photography should be carried out without causing inconvenience to those participating in the rituals. Care should be taken to ensure that their actions do not hinder the faithful from participating attentively (e.g., running around, taking photos during the sermon).
8. It is more desirable that those taking videos/photos inside the church during rituals are Christian believers. If they are non-Christians, they must be knowledgeable about the Holy Qurbana and the sanctity of the rituals.
9. After the rituals, only essential photos (maximum 5) should be taken inside the church. During this time, everyone in the church must maintain complete silence.
10. If photographers are present during rituals, photography using mobile phones should be completely avoided.

These directives will come into effect from October 5, 2025.