6th August 2021
I am acutely aware that young people and families have been looking forward for some time to the Sacramental celebrations of First Holy Communion and Confirmation. Some parishioners have understandably expressed their disappointment with the ongoing postponement. This is especially the case because our church buildings have been consistently maintained as safe places throughout the coronavirus pandemic, and this high standard is a result of dedicated and ongoing hard work, and that of parish committees.
Over the last few months we have had an impressive uptake in vaccines, this is particularly timely as schools prepare to reopen in a few weeks. To preserve the benefit our collective sacrifices to date, I believe that it is important to continue to follow official public health advice in relation to gatherings in the face of the continuing pandemic. I am, therefore, asking all of our parishes to observe the current guidelines and to wait until the appropriate time to hold these ceremonies.
Hopefully, as the vaccination programme advances, the time will come very soon, to celebrate these important and joyful Sacramental occasions.
With every good wish,
Francis Duffy
Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnois
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