Catholic leaders Eamon Martin and Dónal McKeown reluctantly announce cessation of public services to protect health

The Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All-Ireland, in a joint statement with the Bishop of Derry, Most Rev. Dónal McKeown, said the decision was taken after a briefing from the Chief Medical Officer Dr, Michael McBride and the Chief Scientific Officer, Professor Ian Young. and in consultation with The Executive Office.

"We are very concerned at the current serious public health position in which Northern Ireland finds itself: with the extremely high level of transmission of the Covid-19 virus; the continuing escalation of numbers in hospital and intensive care; the number of associated deaths; and, the increasingly unsustainable pressure on our healthcare staff.

"The clear message from health officials is that this situation is going to worsen significantly over the coming weeks.

"We recognise the efforts of so many in our parishes who have been working to ensure that our gatherings for public worship are as safe as possible and we welcome the continuing engagement between the faith communities and the NI Executive which has led to consensus between us on the importance of people being able to gather in person for worship.

"At this time, however, we acknowledge and support the unequivocal message from public health authorities that the movement and gathering of people should be minimised and that as many people as possible stay at home for the sake of health, life and the Common Good," they stated.

The Catholic leaders said that until Saturday, February 6, 2021, subject to review in late January, the celebration of the Eucharist and other liturgies should take place without the physical presence of the faithful.

Exceptions include marriage, funeral, baptismal liturgies and drive-in services (subject to regulations).

"Arrangements for recording and/or livestreaming, and making individual visits for private prayer are also permissible in accordance with regulations. We encourage parishes, where possible, to continue to broadcast the celebration of Mass - and other devotions and prayer services - online and on other media, knowing that faith and prayer can be a tremendous support to individuals and society during these difficult times," they advised.