We are living through a time of unprecedented crisis for our country and world. Although the challenges are very great, and may be even more acute in the weeks ahead, there are very encouraging signs that people are responding well to the advice the Irish Government and health professionals are giving. As priests of the parish, we urge you to continue taking personal responsibility. Seek advice only from trustworthy sources such as the HSE website or your family doctor. Let us all do what we can by thorough and frequent hand washing, and observing social distancing.

As Christians we have a responsibility to care for the vulnerable in our family and locality. As more people contract the virus, support for one another, especially for those living alone, will become increasingly vital. A simple phone call could be a lifeline for someone else. Ensuring supplies of food, medicines and fuel are clear priorities. Human connection, even if not in person, will be welcomed in overcoming isolation and loneliness. Learn from others about creative ways to make non-physical contact with people. Then take a little time today to consider who needs your support, and don’t delay in offering it. 

As Christians too we are people who trust that God is with us along life’s journey. As we draw nearer to Good Friday, we are aware that many bear a cross of anxiety and fear for their health, their employment and financial future, among much else. Our medical, emergency and other frontline personnel carry a cross of responsibility among real and present dangers for their own health. We can think as well of the increasing number in our world who carry the cross of grief that this pandemic has brought them. 

The path to Easter Sunday with its promise of new life is also being traced in these days. The heroic work of our scientists and medical professionals, as well as the combined and sustained solidarity of all the people of this country is the surest hope we have of combating the worst effect of Covid-19 and of rebuilding our lives and economy after the present distress. We entrust all the people of our parish and country to the merciful and loving God. We are privileged as priests to continue offering daily Mass, albeit in private at present, in which we implore almighty God to protect, guide, assist and support all people during this time of emergency. Know that you are central to our thoughts and prayers everyday.

In the item following this note we suggest some intentions for your private prayer, and offer pointers for prayer during the pandemic. We will continue to do this over the coming weeks.

Finally, please feel free to contact us by telephone or email at any time: boduparish@gmail.com; Fr Egan – 087 2837430; Fr Dunne – 083 4854776.

Our Lady, Help of Christians: pray for us!

All our Guardian Angels: pray for us!

United with you in prayer and friendship,

Joe Egan PP; Thomas Dunne CC

 

Boherlahan and Dualla: the Parish at Prayer: 

  • Copies of a leaflet titled ‘Prayers in Times of Insecurity and Anxiety,’ and for use during the Covid-19 crisis, are available in each church. Other prayer options are available as well on the website. 
  • The churches in Boherlahan and Dualla will remain open for private prayer each day. 
  • The Blessed Sacrament will continue to be reserved in the tabernacles
  • Parishioners should feel free to go to either church for private prayer e.g. the rosary, stations of the cross, or other devotions
  • Remember the Sunday Scripture readings are available on the reverse of the bulletin each week
  • If you enter a church and other people are there, please observe the HSE’s current guidelines regarding social distancing
  • Mass is live-streamed each day on www.churchservices.tv/littleton at 9.00am; or at www.fethard.com at 10.00am; or at www.thurlesparish.ie at 11.00 am. 
  • Local radio station Tipp Mid West broadcasts Sunday Mass at 11.00am
  • The weekly bulletin of the parish will be available to take home from the usual places in each church