31.08.2021
Archbishop Welcomes Easing of Restrictions
Statement by the Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson, on the announcement on easing restrictions – Tuesday 31 August 2021
“We welcome today’s announcement of further relaxation of pandemic restrictions, while also knowing that we must continue to be cautious. We welcome the opportunities presented by the Government’s new plan, entitled ‘Reframing the Challenge, Continuing Our Recovery and Reconnecting’. We look forward to learning of the finer details of the plan and exploring how we can incorporate them into our church worship in the days and weeks ahead.
“As we anticipate greater freedom and as we progress through the coming months, we remain eternally grateful to those who have put their professional skills and personal wellbeing at the service of all members of our society over the lifetime of this pandemic. We know that they will continue to do so for the time to come when Covid–19 will inevitably remain part of our lives. While often we may have been frustrated at having to navigate the obstacles which have changed the landscape of our lives in general and our worship in particular, we have at all times recognised that the guidelines have been put in place in the interest of public health and safety. I encourage everyone to continue to follow the public health advice as it is updated, and as the Taoiseach stated this evening, to exercise personal responsibility. We do this for our own sake and for the sake of others.
“As we prepare to explore the new opportunities to form society afresh over the coming weeks, we must also look ahead and reflect on what has been lost and gained through this pandemic. There has been tremendous grief and loss. For many it has not been possible to express this grief in the traditional and time–honoured ways. I urge members of our church communities to consider how we can support positively and sensitively each other and others in our communities in such ongoing need.
“During the past 18 months society as a whole has demonstrated its capacity for solidarity, the ability to ‘love thy neighbour’ and to put others before ourselves. Such neighbourliness has taken many new and positive forms. It is my hope that we can continue this spirit of solidarity, inclusion and openness for the betterment of our society. I wish everyone well as together we move into a new landscape, thankful for many blessings every bit as much as mindful of many sadnesses.”