When life is dominated by an invisible threat such as Covid-19 it seems normal that many would turn to their religion for comfort . So it was a very hard decision for Fr Michael Brennan to make when he closed both the local churches; Church of Mary Immaculate Queen Barna and Séipéál Réal na Mara in Furbo.

However like many, Fr Michael has adapted and strives to make sure the connection between parishioners and the church remains strong. He live streams mass throughout the week. Through his blog he shares photos of both churches, in the hope that they will bring some solace to those who cannot attend. Prayer can still considered a communal act even if done separately and with the help of local lady Derbhla, parishioners can follow Fr Michael via radio, the webcam and Facebook.

One of the poems on his blog is John O Donohue’s “A time to be slow.” and the first three lines are very apt for right now.

“This is the time to be slow,
Lie low to the wall
Until the bitter weather passes”

For more information go to http://www.barnafurboparish.ie/