Based on the most recent advice from Public Health authorities, the Diocese is implementing the following practices from Friday 28th February.
People who feel unwell with symptoms of COVID-19 (e.g. cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, high temperature) should not attend religious services but should stay at home and follow the advice of their GP and public health authorities.
Parishioners should be reminded that they are dispensed from their Sunday obligation to attend Mass if they are unwell.
The Sign of Peace should be suspended at this time.
Similarly, the practice of shaking hands on greeting and departure at religious services/ gatherings should be suspended for both clergy and laity.
Holy Water fonts should not be used at this time.
Only the celebrant should drink from the Chalice.
Holy Communion should be administered into the hands only and NOT onto the tongue
Everyone administering Holy Communion should wash their hands or use alcohol based hand gel before beginning.
Parishes should take the following prudent actions:
Parochial activities/social religious gatherings on church premises should follow sensible practices, including hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene.
You may also find the following PDF link to guidance for religious services in relation to Coronavirus issued by the HSE useful: https://www.hpsc.ie/a-z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/religioussettingsguidance/COVID%2019_Guidance%20for%20religious%20services%20V1.pdf