Traditionally, the annual blessing of graves at Milltown Cemetery would have taken place on the second Sunday in May. However, because of the current pandemic and subsequent restrictions on movement and gatherings, it was necessary to adopt a different approach to the blessing of the graves this year.
To mark the occasion, Bishop Noel Treanor [pictured] privately visited both Milltown and City Cemeteries in Belfast at the weekend to celebrate a ceremony of prayers for the dead and bless the graves.
Solidarity
“In normal circumstances, families would have gathered together in these sacred sites to affectionally remember and pray in solidarity for all the beloved dead who are buried within these Milltown and City Cemeteries.
“United with families at home, we hold in our prayers all those who are buried within these cemeteries; relatives, friends, family members and neighbours,” he said.