The HSE has issued guidance for religious services with regard to Coronavirus (COVID-19) and this has been circulated to all parishes in the diocese. A pdf copy is attached for your information.
The Bishop of Clogher, Bishop Larry Duffy, has asked that the following aspects of the document be brought to the attention of parishes –
- People who are ill or feeling unwell with symptoms of COVID-19 and who have travelled to Ireland from an area with presumed ongoing transmission of COVID-19 within the last 14 days or been in contact with someone who has, or have attended or work in a healthcare facility where patients with COVID-19 were being treated should not attend Mass or other religious services. (See page 2 of HSE document)
- Parishes are asked to supply tissues and alcohol-based hand gel at Masses and other gatherings and to ensure that all hard surfaces that are frequently touched (door handles, hand-rails, taps and pews) are cleaned regularly with a household detergent. (See page 4)
- Holy Water Fonts should not be used. (See page 5)
- Ministers of Holy Communion should wash their hands or use alcohol-based gel before distribution of Holy Communion.
- Holy Communion should be administered into the hands only and NOT on the tongue while this current situation continues. (See page 5)
A copy of the HSE Guidance is attached here: COVID 19_Guidance for religious services V1
Clogher Diocese in Dialogue
The scheduled meetings for the Clogher Diocese in Dialogue will proceed as planned subject to compliance with good practice in terms of hygiene and the other requirements set out in the guidance document. However, the situation will be kept under review
