All Masses with congregations, Sunday and weekday, have been cancelled in the Diocese of Raphoe until the 29th of March.
The directive has been issued by Bishop Alan McGuckian.
Initial gatherings of masses with 100 people or more had been cancelled.
However, a blanket ban on masses has now been introduced.
This will include any Station or House Masses. This directive will be reviewed at the end of the month.
A stateemnt from the Diocese reads “Dealing with the Coronavirus threat is a source of worry for all of us. It is a moment for us to be in prayerful solidarity with each other. It is, in fact, a time when prayer and our reliance on God is more important than ever. We remember that the Lord will never abandon his people.
“It will be important that we look out for each other and especially the most vulnerable. We remember people who may need support; maybe someone to do the shopping for them. A phone call could make a huge difference to someone who feels the need to be in isolation for their own protection.”
Priests will offer Mass each day for the intentions of their community.
The Churches will be open during the day and everyone is encouraged to go in and pray.
Adoration should not take place in small oratories.
Confirmations will be cancelled until further notice.
Where Funerals, Weddings and Baptisms take place we ask that only the immediate family attend. In keeping with government guidelines it must be less that 100 people.
It is important that people be discouraged from travelling to funerals at this time.
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