On behalf of Archbishop Eamon
To Northern Clergy
Dear Father, Deacon,
Please find attached a copy of the new NI law that explains the restrictions that came into force last night (28 March 2020) at 11.00pm in Northern Ireland.
The new regulations mean that, apart from webcam Masses and funerals, our Churches and graveyards (NI) must close to the public with immediate effect.
Below is a summary of the relevant text of the law:
5) A person who is responsible for a place of worship must ensure that, during the emergency period, the place of worship is closed, except for uses permitted in paragraph (6).
(6) A place of worship may be used—
(a) for funerals,
(b) to broadcast an act of worship, whether over the internet or as part of a radio or television broadcast, or
(c) to provide essential voluntary services or urgent public support services (including the provision of food banks or other support for the homeless or vulnerable people, blood donation sessions or support in an emergency).
(7) A person who is responsible for a community centre must ensure that, during the emergency period, the community centre is closed except where it is used to provide essential voluntary activities or urgent public support services (including the provision of food banks or other support for the homeless or vulnerable people, blood donation sessions or support in an emergency).
(8) A person who is responsible for a crematorium or burial ground must ensure that, during the emergency period, the crematorium or burial ground is closed to members of the public, except for funerals or burials.
Keep well during these days.
Yours sincerely,
Eamon Martin
Archbishop of Armagh ... See more
