29.06.2020
Statement by the Archbishop of Dublin on the Reopening of Churches on 29 June 2020
The Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson, has issued the following statement as churches prepare to reopen for public worship from June 29:
“I welcome the opportunity that Faith communities have been given to gather for worship once again from today, Monday June 29. I am thankful to Government and State agencies for making the re-opening of churches and other places of worship for public worship possible three weeks ahead of the expected timeframe.
“This opportunity comes with a need for renewed vigilance on the part of everyone, including those who attend churches. The relaxation of restrictions brings a new urgency for personal responsibility.
“We in the Church of Ireland must commit ourselves to following the developing Guidelines, now and into the future. I encourage everyone to comply with the requirements of social distancing, hand hygiene and other provisions designed to ensure the safety of all members of society, particularly those who are vulnerable.
“I trust that the on-going involvement of church people in their everyday living will continue to contribute to the new sense of neighbourliness and kindness that has come to the fore in the darkest days of Covid-19. I thank all in our parish communities who have continued to ‘be the church’ while church buildings have been closed.
“We continue to give thanks for the tireless work and selfless commitment of all frontline workers. We remember in prayer and in sorrow all who have died and all who have been bereaved in their very painful mourning over the last months.
“Finally, I encourage all members of our church communities to take the opportunity being presented to us by the re-opening of church doors to open our hearts to the needs of our society as together we all emerge from a very deep darkness into new light. Working with all partners and stakeholders in Faith communities and in local and national society, we must now shape a fresh future together.”