Diocese of GalwayKilmacduagh & Kilfenora

Pope Francis calls for prayers for the people of Beirut and a united effort to help Lebanon overcome “this serious crisis”.”

“Let us pray for the victims and their family members, and let us pray for Lebanon so that with the effort of everyone in society – political and religious – it may face this tragic and painful moment and, with the help of the international community, overcome the serious crisis it is experiencing,” the Pope said at the end of his general audience on August 5.

Usually at this time of year, Canon Martin Moran of Killannin parish leads the diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes. This year, of course, that is not possible, so instead he is following the schedule of Masses which pilgrims would attend in Lourdes. 

The cap of 50 attendees at indoor church services remains in place for Phase 3 of the national roadmap, which begins on Monday 29 June.

Following representations made to government by the Catholic Bishops, the Chief Medical Officer and the public health authorities were strongly against making any exception for churches from the maximum number of 50 at indoor gatherings.

Click here for a video message from Bishop Brendan and a description of the practicalities to expect in the return to public pastoral life.

Also available on the Diocese of Galway YouTube channel here.