16th August 2020
Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Weekly Message
Dear parishioners and friends,
I hope this note finds you keeping safe and well.
We are certainly living in strange and uncertain times for so many reasons, and it really is effecting us all in so many different ways too.
I know some of you have had your holiday plans disrupted and even cancelled due to the ever changing situation regarding travel. I know you have been looking forward to a well-earned and much needed break – I am sorry that things have not worked out for some as you would have hoped.
If you are going away, may I wish you a safe journey and a lovely break with a chance for much needed rest and relaxation. And welcome back to those who have been away – I hope you feel refreshed and invigorated from the change of scenery.
To all our young students who have and are receiving exam results – may I wish you the very best and hope you get the just reward for your labours. Again, I know this is a very tough time for you who are having to deal with ‘grading’ in a very different way to what usually happens. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Thank you to you all who are attending church and helping to keep our churches open with your help and support. It really does make a huge difference having the daily help of parishioners who are willing to help us keep our churches clean and safe. As always, I cannot do it without your help – thank you.
Thank you too for your continued understanding with regards the wearing of facemasks in church. I know they are not pleasant to wear at the best of times, least of all in church. Your cooperation is appreciated.
At the moment we are not approaching our maximum capacity for either of our churches with the 2metre rule in place. However, if and when we do start to get increasing numbers attending church, I am allowed to implement the ‘1 metre +’ rule, once I have obtained the appropriate authorisation from Mr Barry Lewis the Diocesan Health and Safety Officer. We are not at that point yet, but it is good to know we can increase our capacity for Mass safely if the need arises.
However, the Government regulation of only 30 in attendance for Baptism, Weddings and funerals is still in place.
In the meantime, please take good care and as always, if there is anything I can do to help, please do not hesitate to contact me.
God bless.