Irish Catholic church Extends Warm Welcome to Returning Parishioners After Pandemic Lull
DUBLIN,Ireland – The Catholic Church in Ireland has launched a nationwide initiative aimed at welcoming back parishioners who may have drifted away from regular Mass attendance during the COVID-19 pandemic.The effort, spearheaded by Bishop denis Nulty, recognizes the impact of webcam broadcasts and shifting priorities on attendance patterns and extends an open invitation to all.
The initiative, supported by all Catholic bishops across the island, centers around a pastoral message delivered by Bishop Nulty at Carlow Cathedral earlier today. The message, titled ‘Why Sunday Matters,’ underscores the historical and spiritual significance of Sunday worship within the Christian tradition.
Bishop Nulty emphasized that Sunday Mass has been central to the life of the Church since its inception, providing a vital “rhythm” for the week ahead. He acknowledged the disruption caused by the pandemic, noting the temporary suspension of sacramental life and the challenges faced by communities.
Interestingly, Bishop Nulty described the pandemic itself as “a grace in itself,” explaining that it inadvertently highlighted the importance of the Eucharist and the communal experience of worship.”this is what we missed most during those pandemic days. Sunday worship was disrupted; the sacramental life of the parish was put on hold,” he stated.
The call to return extends to both those who haven’t attended since the pandemic’s onset and those who have never regularly participated in mass. “Some have not returned to worship, and some had never connected. Today across the island, in every diocese, in every parish, all are encouraged to return,” Bishop Nulty affirmed.
The initiative wasn’t developed in isolation. Bishop Nulty highlighted that the compilation of the message was the result of nearly two years of discussion and contributions from individuals and groups across the country, demonstrating a broad consensus within the Church on the importance of re-engagement.
This initiative comes at a time when many religious institutions are grappling with evolving attendance patterns in the wake of the pandemic. The Catholic Church in Ireland hopes to reaffirm the enduring value of communal worship and the central role of the Eucharist in the lives of its parishioners.
Looking Ahead
The Church plans to continue promoting the ‘Why Sunday Matters’ message through various channels, including parish bulletins, diocesan websites, and social media. The focus will be on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all who wish to reconnect with their faith community.
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