The updated advice from the Department of the Taoiseach, forwarded to clergy by the Archbishop’s Office, suggests “that it may be helpful for each Place of Worship/Community to implement a risk assessment to ascertain what they are comfortable with and what best suits their congregation as a result of the lifting of restrictions. Continuation of some protective measures may be preferred, for an interim period, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the vulnerable or anxious members of the congregation”. 

With the above in mind the following will apply at St Paul’s until further notice:

• Please continue to wear a mask while inside the church building and use the hand sanitisers provided.
• If you are wearing your mask properly i.e., it covers your nose and mouth, you may sing
• Social distancing and the one-way entry/exit system are no longer in operation.  You are free to sit where you like and exit the building as you choose.
• The prayer books and hymn books will be reintroduced for use whenever possible to reduce unnecessary printing of single use service sheets.
• Parish Communion will be reintroduced at 10.30 am on the fourth Sunday of each month.
• At all communion services you are asked to remain in your pew and the bread and wine will be brought to you as has been recent practice.
• Please always exercise caution and remain conscious of those around you to ensure that worship remains a safe environment for everyone, particularly those who may be vulnerable or feel anxious.
• Coffee/tea after the 10.30 am Sunday service will continue outside, weather permitting. 
  Gary Dowd