The Archbishop of Cashel & Emly, Kieran O’Reilly, has reinforced the obligation for the public to follow the guidelines in respect of Funerals in relation to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. In a recent statement, Archbishop O’Reilly outlined that while he is conscious of the immense personal heartache for those who are forced to mourn loved ones without the closeness of their community, he restated that it was vitally important for the entire community to work together to ensure that close contacting did not occur at any funeral and that social distancing rules were adhered to.
“We ask people, difficult as it is, not to approach the bereaved in the church grounds or cemetery to sympathise”
Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly
“We ask people, difficult as it is, not to approach the bereaved in the church grounds or cemetery to sympathise. As per public health guidelines […] there should be no wakes or large gatherings for prayers in the house of the deceased, nor gatherings in cemeteries. Support for the bereaved can be expressed through social media/telephone, as an alternative to attending the funeral”.
The Bishop concluded by thanking priests, sacristans, volunteers and undertakers for their help in implementing restrictions.
For updated and factual Public Health information and advice on COVID-19 Coronavirus, please visit hse.ie/coronavirus or call 1800 700 700
For the latest information on the Covid-19 Vaccine Programme, please visit hse.ie/covid-19-vaccine
