October First Communion dates announced for several Athlone schools

The parish of Saints Peter and Paul in Athlone has announced October dates for First Holy Communions ceremonies involving children from seven local schools.

The ceremonies for children from seven schools on the western side of the Shannon in Athlone will be held in the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in order to facilitate social distancing.

The parish said First Holy Communion for Ardkeenan NS and Clonown NS pupils would take place on Friday, October 9, at 2pm.

For Cornafulla NS pupils, the service would also be on October 9, but at 4pm.

The following day, Saturday, October 10, will see First Holy Communions for St Peter's NS and Dean Kelly NS pupils at 2pm, and for Summerhill NS pupils at 4pm.

On Friday, October 16, two groups from Cloonakilla NS will receive their First Holy Communion, with the first group at 2pm and the second group at 4pm.

The parish said that, due to health guidelines and restrictions on numbers, it will only be possible for the parents to attend the ceremony with their child.

Unfortunately, other relatives will not be allowed to attend the services.

First Confessions are due to be held during school time in preparation for First Holy Communion.