The Bishop of Derry and Raphoe has announced that all Church of Ireland building in Donegal will close for public services during Level 3 lockdown.
Public worship has been stopped with immediate effect and those services will move exclusively online.
The announcement of tighter restrictions in Donegal “is hardly surprising”, said Bishop of Derry and Raphoe, Right Rev. Andrew Foster.
“The recent rise in the number of cases in the county left the authorities with little option. So, while the decision is disappointing, we must give our full support to these efforts to suppress the virus,” he said.
Bishop Forster said the Donegal side of the diocese is being tested again in the wake of further restrictions:
“Our parishioners and clergy have already been heroic in the face of the coronavirus pandemic – in how they’ve responded to the challenge, how they’ve reordered their lives and how they’ve reimagined worship. Now, the Donegal side of our Derry and Raphoe family is being tested once again.
“We all have a role to play in defeating this virus. I implore you to heed the advice of the authorities. In doing so, we will be showing our love for our neighbours, as well as our families and friends, and make no mistake: we will be saving lives.
“I pray for God’s enlightenment for the scientists searching for a vaccine; I pray for His guidance for all our leaders as they guide us through this grave crisis; I thank God for the healthcare workers who have been unstinting in their bravery and generosity and compassion; I thank God for the essential services workers who have looked after us all for the last six months; and I pray that whatever the future brings, God will continue to hold you close to Him and that He will remain your refuge and strength.”
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