Anyone age 12 or over attending a gathering at Catholic churches, rectories or community centres under the responsibility of the Archdiocese of Moncton in Canada must present proof that they are fully vaccinated, the archdiocese announced Friday. The move is regarded as unprecedented.

The new policy applies to all religious celebrations, Sunday and weekday Masses, baptisms, wedding and funerals, parish and pastoral meetings, catechesis, and social meetings.

The archdiocese’s announcement comes in the wake of new provincial government rules set to take effect today requiring proof of vaccination to access certain events, services, and businesses. Fewer than 50 people have died from COVID-19 in the province of New Brunswick since the pandemic began, according to government statistics. But provincial officials say they are concerned about a recent uptick in cases and hospitalizations.