Bishop Andrew has announced on Tuesday 17th March that with a heavy heart the suspension of all public acts of worship in the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe, this includes Sunday and midweek services. Baptisms, weddings and funerals will still be permitted as
long as they comply with the guidance of the appropriate public health authority. He feels this is the right thing to do.
He stresses while the diocese is following the request from both governments to maintain social distancing, there is no spiritual distancing. Clergy who are well enough will ensure that they are available to parishioners for pastoral support – if necessary by telephone or online. The diocese is also investigating options for non-traditional forms of worship, such as radio and online religious services.
full text of Bishop’s St Patrick’s day statement at https://www.derryandraphoe.org/?p=3373
Bishop Andrew had hoped that it would be possible to have churches open for private prayer on Sunday at service times but on March 20th he released a statement saying that he must insist that churches remain closed at this time for the protection of the health of our parishioners. His full statement is available on the diocesan website at https://www.derryandraphoe.org/?page_id=935