Derry goes crazy for '˜Mass' Facebook page

A Facebook page dedicated to Mass was set-up in 2012 but in recent days there has been a huge surge in online activity after the page created an event called ‘Mass’ for Sunday October 30.

The event is being organised in the same way people would use Facebook to organise parties, political rallies and cinema viewings etc.

At the time of publishing, more than 175,000 people, hundreds of which are from Derry, had signed up, for the event with a further 40,000 expressing an interest in attending.

Bizarrely, people are using the Facebook page to share Mass inspired messages, memes and videos.

As you would expect, the television sitcom, ‘Fr. Ted’ features heavily.

The event has been received by most people in a light-hearted way however some Catholics have been offended by some of the messages.

“This page and the people posting to it are guilty of contempt for religion,” said one Facebook user.

“I can’t believe some of the things that are being said on here - it just shows a real lack of respect for something that many people in Ireland and around the world hold dear,” they added.

One user, who set-up a Facebook account pretending to be Pope Francis said: “Due to increase in numbers doors will be closing at half 11. Girls get in free before 10. I will also be doing quick weddings at closing on the way out, providing the Gardai doesn’t raid us before that, 10 euro per couple.”

A similar page called ‘Mass - The Sequel’ has also been set-up and is due to take place in Belfast on November 6.