'We must thank God for technology, but it will be great to be together again.' Joy as churches to reopen for Mass
Fr John O’Connor (left) and Fr Jamie Twohig celebrating Mass at St Anne’s Church, Shankill
Being able to practice their faith in person will be very important for parishioners, according to Fr John O'Connor of St Anne's church in Shankill.
From May 10, up to 50 people will be able to attend church services.
'We were very lucky to have the live streaming,' he said. 'But there is no comparison between being there physically and watching Mass on a screen. It means an awful lot.
'That's what community means - common unity. So as well as being able to be together spiritually, we can be together physically.'
Fr John said that he loves the idea of the church being God's house. 'It's going home, and the focal point of the parish.'
That said, live streaming was a huge benefit and a great comfort to everyone. 'We must thank God for technology, but it will be great to be together again.'
There will be a sense of joy and relief as people return to churches, the priest said.
'This pandemic has been very trying,' he said. 'The psychological ramifications are going to be terrible as we get back to normal life.'
Funerals and weddings will also include 50 people at the church, but gatherings before or after are restricted.
Fr John said that reduced numbers at funerals have been difficult for the bereaved. 'It's a part of the mourning process, to be with family and friends,' he said.
'People have been present outside the church, at the graveyard, and online. In fact some people would drive to the church, and watch the ceremony on their phones from the car.'
He said that there is a great desire to show solidarity and respect.
A system will be in place through the parish office for people to make bookings to attend Mass, and there will be stewards present to help people to operate in a socially distant way.
Fr John said that communions and confirmations will be arranged at a later date when permitted. 'It may be difficult to arrange confirmation for those currently in sixth class, going on to different schools.
'We have learned a lot,' he said. 'Last year, we were able to do all the first communions and confirmations. It was done in a different way. It was much more simple, more religious and with far less show.
'Some good things, perhaps, will have come out of this pandemic.'
