The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
BISHOP: NO PUBLIC MASSES ‘UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE’
PUBLIC Masses have been suspended indefinitely in another extraordinary measure to save lives in the face of the COVID-19 crisis.
Bishop of Kerry Ray Browne indicated as much in a statement on Thursday, saying no public Masses with a congregation will be celebrated ‘until further notice’. Bishop Browne said the new guidelines would endure until the Government indicates they are no longer necessary.
The Diocese of Kerry is taking no chances with the health of the faithful, particularly given the age profile of the typical Kerry congregation. But live streaming services continue at numerous Kerry parishes, accessible via the website www.dioceseofkerry.ie.
Services have also been suspended in the Church of Ireland, in Kerry as in the rest of the country. Church of Ireland bishops initially indicated the suspension of public services would last until the March 29 deadline, but it is believed that the Anglican measure is, as with the Catholic move, of indefinite duration now as Ireland braces for the real onslaught of the disease.
Churches remain open, however, for anyone wishing to pray and reflect at a safe remove from others.
“In attending, church people are asked to follow all guidelines, including hand-washing before coming to church and on return home, keeping their distance from any person they meet, and also minimising their touching of hard surfaces,” Bishop Browne stated.
“Adoration groups have asked for some guidance. Any who wish to spend a period in prayer can do so from any seat in the church with their focus on the tabernacle. Exposition is not to take place as it would draw people to sit in the seats immediately in front of the monstrance and thus increase the risk of the virus being contacted,” Bishop Browne said.
He also recommended parishes to continue ringing the church bell at 11am on Sunday morning. “Any who hear it will be reminded that we are never alone; Christ is with us, our strength and guide.”
He described the previous weekend as a ‘difficult’ one: “Last weekend was a difficult weekend for us all, in the initial mental and physical adjustment to ‘social distancing’. Now people are adjusting well and feel more at ease. We realise that we must give full cooperation to our government and the HSE.
“So many people have shown great personal qualities and great wisdom. There are so many examples of the ‘good neighbour’ and it does all our hearts good. I have in mind all the people putting the word out in their community, by phone or on-line, that they are available to help anyone in need. Also many people have expressed their appreciation of their parish for prayer and for Masses. Many have joined in the Mass on-line or via parish radio. Now there is 10.30am daily Mass on the RTE News Now channel.”