Churches re-open under strict guidelines

By Dan Walsh

Parish churches across the Diocese of Ferns opened their doors for Saturday and Sunday Mass for the first time in three months this evening, albeit, under strict public health guidelines regarding physical distancing and the maximum number of congregation for any liturgy is reduced in line with the size and capacity of each individual church.

Over the past week church groups have been preparing for Mass with signage and closing of seating to facilitate the existing guidelines. However, some parishes have the benefit of live streaming into homes, a practical solution that has been widely used and appreciated to facilitate family funerals.

At St. Aidan’s Cathedral, Enniscorthy, Administrator Rev. Odhran Furlong said; “Before the lockdown, the number participating in daily Mass here in the Cathedral was about 50-60 so accommodating those who came back this week was not a problem. However, a challenge comes with Sunday Mass as we expect that more than 50 people will come to the Cathedral for each of the three weekend Masses.”

“With that in view, we priests want to do our utmost to ensure that anyone who wants to come to Mass in the Cathedral this Sunday can do so. Therefore, beginning from this weekend we have added to the number of weekend Masses. On Saturday evening there will be two vigil Masses at 6pm and 7.30pm. On Sundays there will be three Masses: at 8am, 10am and 12 noon. Please note that this is a temporary adjustment to our Mass schedule and will be reviewed as things develop,” added Fr Furlong, speaking to parishioners through social media.

For those who do attend the following four steps must be complied with:
Please wear a mask
Please use Hand Sanitizer provided as you enter the Cathedral
Please sit alone or with members of your household
Please maintain proper social distancing.
“At each Mass clear instruction will be given as to other requirements during the liturgy. This process will require a great deal of patience, understanding and willingness to comply on behalf of us all and we thank you in advance for this,” concluded Fr Furlong.