HAVANA 12 (NE) The Cuban government decided to allow religious processions to take place in the Island during Easter celebrations, revoking a previous decision to forbid such celebrations. As Misna news agency informed, Cuban authorities decided to withdraw a previous measure that prohibited religious processions during Holy Week, putting a stop to the preparations the Church in this country was making in view of the celebrations.

    On Monday, a spokesman to the Conference of Catholic Cuban Bishops had announced the decision of the communist government to suspend religious processions in the Island. The measure was "communicated to the Church by local authorities in every diocese," said a communique issued by the Bishops. The statement also expressed the surprise caused by the decision, especially when Easter celebrations had taken place in 1999.

    As Misna news agency reported, the Cuban government's change in position after its initial prohibition has caused great joy among Cuban faithful, who will once again be able to celebrate Easter. Nevertheless, although religious processions will be allowed, a government officer declared without given further explanations that "in some cases and because of determined circumstances, religious manifestations could be prohibited."