The Bishops’ Conference has decided that holy water may now be used by those who wish to bless themselves as they enter and leave the church. Hands should be sanitised before contact with the holy water and it should be changed as and when required depending on the size of parish and the number of parishioners attending.

There are presently no plans to reinstate the sign of peace so this should be limited to a respectful bow of the head should parishes wish to do so.

In the meantime, parishes will continue to provide good ventilation and parishioners are asked to remember that face coverings are still required to be worn unless exempt.