Over the last few weeks, we have been preparing our three Churches for a joyful reopening this Monday 29th June. Thanks be to God that we have reached this hopeful stage of our journey. We can now resume our normal Mass times in our Churches. As we move forward in hope, we continue to follow the public health guidelines to ensure we do everything we possibly can to protect everyone’s health and well-being. These guidelines will have a significant impact on how we can gather to pray and celebrate the sacraments.
The most significant change for us will be the limit on the number of people that can be in the Church at any one time. Given the current social distancing guidelines the maximum number that can attend in our three churches is 50. As the obligation to attend Sunday Mass continues to be lifted, it is good to remember that no one should feel obliged to come to Mass on Sunday and everyone has the option to choose a day in the week for morning Mass.
Hand sanitisers are now in place and we would ask everyone to sanitise their hands as they come into the Church. The signage that is now in place will help to guide us and to observe social distancing. Some parishioners will also help as stewards to guide and direct us. We need to take particular care when coming to receive Communion. The Ministers of the Eucharist will wear a mask when distributing Communion. The wearing of masks or face coverings is now strongly recommended for everyone when indoors with a large group. Unfortunately, the toilets in our churches will not be in use for the time being.
Anyone wishing to arrange a Baptism in Holy Spirit or Virgin Mary can contact Sheila at 01 8421551. To arrange a Baptism in St. Joseph’s please contact Karen at 01 8423865. The Parish Offices will be open at their usual times and the secretaries will be glad to answer any queries you may have. The office hours are listed on the website. Confirmations will take place in Holy Spirit on August 11th & 12th and in St. Joseph’s on August 18th. The First Communion Masses will take place for all the children in September. The dates will be confirmed after the children return to school.
Thanks for your patience and understanding. A special word of thanks to our wonderful volunteers who have worked so hard cleaning our three churches and preparing a safe and welcoming environment. We are deeply grateful for their generosity and commitment.
As we come to the end of June, the month of the Sacred Heart we remember that we are always held safely in the LOVING HEART OF JESUS CHRIST. We find joy and hope in the promise of God’s faithful love. We continue to support one another in prayer and hope. After being apart for so long we look forward to welcoming you to our Churches to celebrate Mass together. As we are nourished by God’s Word and the Bread of Life, we pray that we will be true witnesses to God’s love and compassion.
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