Cllr Sarah O’Reilly: Once Again Religious Services & Practices Singled Out For Special Mistreatment By Government
Aontú Cllr for Cavan, Sarah O’Reilly has criticised the suspension of communions, confirmations and baptisms by the government despite their being no request by the CMO to do so, and has said it is another example of special mistreatment of religious services by this government.
Cllr O’Reilly: “It seems everyone including Bishops, laity and NPHET themselves were surprised by Leo Varadkar’s announcement that communion, confirmation and baptism ceremonies “are off” as he put it. Dr Tony Holohan has confirmed publicly that he and NPHET did not make such a recommendation however communication with the Bishops from the Taoiseach’s office made claim, that the decision was based on NPHET’s advice.”
“This is very short notice for parishes and schools who were making preparations to have small ceremonies in compliance with guidelines, I am especially sorry for the children who are preparing for this special occasion and for their families for whom this sudden decision was a bolt from the blue.”
“It is difficult for people to understand why Mass for 50 people receiving communion is acceptable and why Mass for 50 people, some receiving communion for the first is not acceptable. It does seem a very strange piece of mental gymnastics. If we are to believe sacraments “are off” because of the fear of family gatherings and parties, then why would the government increase the number of people attending weddings where there is a greater chance that guidelines would be more relaxed!”
“This issue, once again exposes a huge vacuum in communication between Church and State and a shocking level of disrespect by Government towards Church leaders. It also exposes the fact that people are crying out for their Bishops to stand up for the people against such discrimination. The Bishops must question the reasoning for this discission and demand the evidence and data that back up the cancellation of these specific ceremonies. The Sacraments are not events and should not be treated as such, they are acts of communal worship protected by Bunreacht na hÉireann. The Government have no business telling parish communities what liturgies they may celebrate.”
