Newsletter April 12th 2020 (Easter Sunday)

Dear Parishioners,

I’m sure another three weeks of lockdown are not what we had hoped to hear on Fri-day Last.

As difficult as it is to see beyond the next three weeks they will come, and they will go.

This silent killer the Covid-19 Virus needs to be controlled and in the absence of a drug to eliminate it we must all play our part in ensuring we reduce the possibilities of its spread. We are told by health authorities that it is NOT airborne and therefore is passed on by contact only. Social distancing and good hygiene practices are the key to stop-ping its spread.

When in contact with others maintain the suggested 2-meter distance. Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a disposable tissue, Wash hands often and well. If unable to wash hands use sanitizer.

During the lockdown many will find it difficult, lonely or even depressing. Now more than ever we need our neighbours, to check in daily with each other, to ensure we are ok. It is easy to identify if someone needs food but harder to identify loneliness or anxiety. By making daily contact with those living alone we can, and will, make a difference in people’s lives get through the next three weeks, and during that time play our part In building a stronger community in which nobody is left behind.

This Easter, we are all experiencing the passion of Christ through the restrictions on movement, through the sadness of not being able to embrace children and grandchildren through our families not being able to gather for Easter, through helplessly watching a sick family member or friend, though not being able to attend Church.

Easter vigil Mass will be live streamed Saturday evening at 8pm with Easter Sunday Mass at 11am. Monday to Saturday Mass will be streamed at 9.30am and on Sundays at 11am on www.churchservices.tv/athlone

May our faith in the Resurrected Christ bring us through this challenging time and con-tinue to shape us all into better, kinder people in the months ahead.

The parish office in town and Drum are both closed but emails are being monitored.

The churches in the parish will remain open during the day as a refuge for those who would like to stop in for a prayer to light a candle or for some silent space.

(Social distancing should be observed if visiting and we ask you to use the sanitizer at the doors as you come and go.)

I cannot express enough gratitude to the members of the St. Peters Parish Covid-19 Community Response Group for the great work you are doing.

I will communicate new First Holy Communion and Confirmation dates as soon as the restrictions are lifted.

Stay safe, stay well and be assured of prayers. Wishing you all a Blessed Easter.

If I can be of any help please do not hesitate to contact me 0906490874

Fr. John