UPDATE

It was wonderful to gather this week to celebrate Mass together after the long months of being apart. There is a real sense of joy and hope among us and a spirit of solidarity. As we prepare to celebrate our weekend Masses, we have the challenge of managing the restriction on the number of people that can attend at any one time. 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.

We are delighted to let you know that a webcam has been installed in Holy Spirit Church. The Vigil Mass at 6.00p.m. on Saturday and the 10.30a.m. Mass on Sunday will be streamed live. You can find this on www.churchservices.tv/ballymun. It will soon be available on our parish website page. We are also planning to arrange live streaming from Virgin Mary Church and St. Joseph’s via an app that connects to the webcam.

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. We have been reminded again this week of the importance of maintaining social distance not only in the Church itself but also as we enter and leave, and on the Church grounds.

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.

Thanks for your patience and understanding. Take good care, go gently and safely. A special word of thanks to our wonderful volunteers who have worked so hard cleaning our three churches after every Mass and maintain a safe and welcoming environment. We are deeply grateful for their generosity and commitment.

We remember Margaret Lee whose funeral took place in Holy Spirit on Friday. May she rest in the peace of God’s love