‘Faith Survival Kits’ were handed out to several parishes in Down and Connor over Easter.
They contain a prayer, some reading material, parish updates and sometimes a candle, a mini Easter egg or some holy water.
In the parish of Ardkeen they began giving packs out almost a month ago. Paula McKeown, a parish volunteer, said they had noticed people enjoying the daily Rosary and they wanted some way to give out the resources they had stocked for Easter.
“People were really beginning to re-engage with more consistent prayer with the family at home, so we wanted to give people a resource that would support that.”
Fr Anthony Alexander PP included a personal letter in the packs sent out on Good Friday. He said: “Our kits have been really well received. People are dropping off groceries and Faith Survival Kits to their neighbours. I have received many letters, cards, children’s drawing and text messages describing the impact of these kits.”
Packs were also given out in Banagher parish in Derry and Glenravel near Ballymena.
Fr Conor McGrath PP in Glenravel said: “This simple kit has resonated with people and parishioners were in touch to say how this pack on their doorstep was a welcome surprise.”