N.I. EXECUTIVE PERMIT RETURN TO PUBLIC WORSHIP (Parish Bulletin 21st June 2020)

The Irish Bishops issued a framework document “for the return to the public celebration of Masses and the sacraments” and our diocese has put it out for discussion among clergy conferences and Parish Pastoral Councils. The result of the consultation will be published here.

Last Thursday the NI Executive gave us Monday 29th June as the date when public worship could recommence.

In our parish we will be doing our best to re-open on that day. There is a lot to be done in the meantime and if we don’t get it done we will postpone the recommencement. A quick reckoning of our safe-seating capacity in the church (within the current government guidelines) is 50 people. Couples, families, and other “bubbles” would mean more people could be accommodated safely. Our priority has to be the safety of people. We will need volunteers for all our Masses to help with stewarding and seating people. Training will be provided. Immediately, we will need to form a Covid19 committee and will need people with expertise in maintaining good hygiene in public areas. Please contact me, Fr Austin or Emer O’Keefe (portstewartpastoralcouncil@gmail.com) if you can volunteer as a steward or as a member of the Covid19 committee.

During the pandemic, the Sunday obligation remains removed and if you decide not to attend Mass we support

your decision.