Another glimmer of hope is found in Archbishop Martin's comment yesterday to an Irish Times reporter: "There is a willingness on the part of public authorities to examine the possibility of bringing forward the opening of churches for public worship into Phase 3 of the road map, which would begin on June 29th. Naturally, any decision would have to take place closer to that date and would have to take into consideration the overall situation of the virus at that time." (For more, see the Irish Times report.)
For more information, see Archbishop Martin's official statements on the diocesan website for the 28 May and 4 June on the re-opening of churches.
Tuesday 9th June :
The Bishops of Ireland have released a Framework Document for a Return to the Public Celebration of Mass and the Sacraments. You can read a summary by Bishop Brendan Leahy (Limerick) here and the original text in full here. Par. 5 describes the task awaiting us here in our parishes:
At the end of the month we hope to slowly and cautiously resume public worship in our churches, knowing that it can only happen in a limited way. We will still need patience, perseverance and self-sacrifice. The prescriptions contained in this Framework Document will only be effective if we have the generous support of volunteers who will help to plan, implement and manage the transition back to full parish life and the celebration of the sacraments. In this regard we appeal particularly to the younger members of our parishes. Their energy, creativity and enthusiasm are gifts that our communities need now more than ever, since some of our older generation may be unable to offer their normal help in the current circumstances.
