The Government recently announced special concession for places of worship to reopen for religious services at Level 3, from 1 December, in light of the upcoming Christmas period.

This will allow for up to 50 worshippers to attend services with the following protective measures:

• Two-metre social distancing guidelines adhered to (members of the same household can sit/stand close together);
• Wearing of face coverings;
• Where possible, separate points of entrance and exit, clearly marked;
• No congregation by people outside the premises before and after any service; and
• Stewards onsite to assist in this regard.

Details of Sunday Service times in St James’ Church, Athboy and St Patrick’s Cathedral, Trim can be found here.

The Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson, welcomed the opportunities now offered under the easing of restrictions.

“Gathering is important in how people of faith function. This relates both to our self-understanding and to the positive contributions we make to civil society.

“Caution and care of others and of ourselves must be maintained as public health remains the guiding priority. Congregations have been asked to wear masks while in church and I urge everyone to continue to comply with the public health guidance.

“The restoration of the opportunities to worship, while modest in comparison with what we have been accustomed to doing, will gladden the hearts of members of my own diocese particularly at this time of year.”

More information can be found on the Government of Ireland website.