13th Sunday in Ordinary Time
It is with a great sense of hope and optimism that I write this evening. This is our sixteenth, and hopefully last, weekend without public Mass in our churches. From Monday 9am, in Rathkenny church, Mass will be celebrated for you all. Please follow the stewards requests, use the hand sanitizer provided and practice social distancing, inside and outside the church.
As we return to worship, we pause to reflect on those who led us through these uncertain times. We thank our outgoing Government and wish our new Government well. May the qualities that got them here, cooperation, compromise and courage, keep them and all of us on a safe path ‘going forward’, as a former Taoiseach often said.
The phone hasn’t been hopping with volunteers over the past few weeks, though thanks to all who are helping.. It’s not just about opening but staying open and lots of help is still needed. Nor is it simply about packing the churches. It’s about people being safe and feeling safe. It’s not too late to ring. 046 9054138
Meetings this week: Monday 29 Grangegeeth church 7pm Wednesday 1 July Rushwee church 6.30pm Thursday 2 July Rathkenny church 7.30pm
Masses this week: Rathkenny Mon, Wed 9am Fri 7.30pm Sun 11.30am Grangegeeth Tues 7.30pm Sun 10am Rushwee Thurs 7.30pm Sat 6.30pm
As of today, there remains a limit of 50 people indoors, which will apply for at least the early days of next week. Our three churches can accommodate those numbers as individuals or family groups, but please cooperate with the stewards. It will be possible to hear Mass outside using outdoor speakers, and if you can, remain outside, weather permitting. It will be a great help, initially at least. The Sunday obligation is lifted until you feel safe to attend Mass. Please care for yourself at home, if you have any symptoms. Please come early, sanitize your hands, cooperate with the stewards on entering and leaving the church, and on receiving Communion.
At this stage please consider volunteering, cooperate with guidelines, be kind and patient, pray for, and help facilitate a smooth return to Mass and the Sacraments.
Fr Gerry
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