Church life in slow return to some normality

WITH the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, the Parish Church was re-opened for personal prayer and devotion for seven hours each day, from 11am to 6pm.

While it is a sign of normality returning slowly, rules remain strict, and no formal or informal gatherings are allowed.

“It is expected that all who visit the Church will respect the guidelines issued in relation to COVID-19,” a Parish spokesperson said. “This will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.

Meanwhile, Holy Hour will take place in the Church on Thursday night from 8pm. This will, of course, consist of preparation for the Feast of Pentecost.

“In asking for a new outpouring of the Holy Spirit for our challenging times, all are welcome to join in asking God to renew us individually, as a parish and as a community,” the spokesperson continued. “It is this Thursday night from 8pm to 9pm, which is live-streamed.”

It is also intended that local children from Glenahilla National School, who would have received their First Holy Communion at the weekend, will now receive their Holy Communion instead in September.

Finally, people from the parish of Mitchelstown who have Trócaire Boxes in their homes since the COVID-19 lock-down began are asked to return them to the parish office this week.

Every year, Trócaire ask for the public’s help during Lent to fund lifesaving programmes around the world.

This money is vital, and Trócaire are now appealing to the public to return their Lenten donations.