Celebrating the Sacraments
I am now able to conduct baptisms, hear confessions and begin to organise taking Communion to the housebound and the sick.
Baptisms
I am now able to conduct infant baptisms and I am ready to arrange dates with the parents. There will be some preparation before the ceremony as usual and there is a restriction on the number of people able to attend. However, it is now possible to conduct the baptismal rite so if you wish to know more please do contact me.
Confessions
I am also able to hear confessions. You can arrange a time with me that is mutually convenient and I am also available at the Immaculate Conception 6-30pm on Thursday evenings and at St Gerard’s 10-30am on a Saturday morning.
Communion to the Housebound and the Sick.
The diocese is making arrangements for the member of a household or social bubble to be able to take Communion to someone in the same household or social bubble who is unable to attend mass. If someone who is unable to attend mass but would like to receive Communion wishes to contact me I will be able to arrange for another member of their household or social bubble to bring Communion to them. Some training will be required and will cover how to administer Communion safely.
If you are interested in learning more please do contact me.
First Holy Communion
This will be a challenge but it is not impossible. We have a lot of children who have celebrated their First Confession and are now waiting for the opportunity to make their First Holy Communion. What will not happen are large gatherings where numbers of children are making their First Holy Communion at the same time with large numbers of families and friends with them. It is more than likely that it will be two or three children at a time with a limit on the number of people present. Preparation can take place from home, (sorry, more learning at home) the learning material can be supplied and also there will be a session with me in the church.
So, if you wish to proceed further do contact me.
Fr. Desmond.