Diocese of Derry - COVID-19 restrictions - UPDATE 7 January 2021

Parishes in Northern Ireland 

In light of our ongoing consultations and of the current serious and worsening situation, and in line with clear public health guidance that people should stay at home, the Catholic Bishops of Northern Ireland have decided that for a limited period (from midnight on Thursday, 7 January until Saturday, 6 February 2021, subject to review in late January) the celebration of the Eucharist and other liturgies should take place without the physical presence of the faithful – with the exception of marriage, funeral, baptismal liturgies and drive-in services (subject to regulations).

The following apply to churches:

1. CLOSED: Churches are open for private prayer only.
2. FACE-COVERINGS: People must wear face-coverings inside the church building and to enter and exit – this is mandatory.
3. FUNERALS: Funerals are limited to 25 people.
4. BAPTISIMS: Baptisms are limited to attendance by the immediate family.
5. WEDDINGS: Weddings are limited to 25 people.
   

Catholic Bishops of Northern Ireland statement can be found on Irish Catholic Bishop's Conference.
Restrictions announced by the Northern Ireland Executive can be found on NIDirect by clicking here.

Parishes in the County Donegal  

County Donegal will have Level 5 COVID restrictions from St Stephen's Day, 26 December 2020.

The following apply to churches:

1. CLOSED: Churches are open for private prayer only. Not for any other purpose.
2. FUNERALS: Funerals can proceed with up to 10 mourners attending;
3. WEDDINGS: From Sunday 3 January 2021 weddings can proceed with a limit of up to 6 guests (and guests cannot leave their county to attend a wedding).