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Letter from Bishop Francis Duffy re Confirmation
21/May/2021
Dear Father,
At the end of last month I wrote that First Holy Communion ceremonies are deferred until September and that all Confirmation ceremonies are deferred until the 12th June, at the earliest, subject to Government advice.
Last week the Government issued updated advice stating that
First Holy Communion and Confirmation "should not take place during May
and June". (www.gov.ie).
With First Holy Communion deferred until September we had hoped to hold Confinnations from the 12th June. Unfortunately Confirmations cannot now take place in June. The Government states "Further advice will follow on resumption of these ceremonies when it is safe to do so".
Parishes may hold Confirmation ceremonies when the Government advice is that it is safe to do so; this may mean July or August or later. I appreciate that in many parishes dates have been agreed and this will be disabpointing for those who have been preparing for Confirmation.
I express my gratitude for all the work carried out in
preparing students for the sacraments. I ask that you consult with the school
community and Parish Pastoral Councils about the ceremonies for your parish,
mindful of current public health advice.
With every good wish,
Francis Duffy
Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnois