“Nobody was disrespectful. Certainly there were people who were indifferent, people who did not know exactly what was going on, but there were people who stopped and blessed themselves and wanted a blessing,” Bishop Cullinan said.

Let us not lose the opportunity to give further proof of solidarity ... The only alternative is the selfishness of particular interests and the temptation of a return to the past.

“This action, which is not taken lightly, is ... the only way of guaranteeing that vulnerable people, who might be so inclined to call into the church to pray or light a candle, are more encouraged to stay at home and keep within the regulations” – Bishop Nulty.

Archbishop Eamon Martin will hold a special Mass of Remembrance at St Patrick's Cathedral in Armagh, on Sunday.

We Christians believe and know that Christ’s resurrection is the true hope of the world, the hope that does not disappoint.

The stamp, which is designed by the artist Daniela Longo, marks the pope emeritus’ milestone birthday, which coincided with Easter Sunday.

“It holds the bread that we believe has been transformed into the body of Christ. That is what we believe and that is why this act of desecration is so distressing” – Bishop Francis Duffy.

The Easter message speaks especially to those seeking to escape from persecution and poverty.

“We are happy to consult with the organisers of the commemoration on this matter” Church of Ireland Primate says in new statement.

“This year’s Trócaire box is a recognition of ordinary people who are doing extraordinary things in the pursuit of justice and a fairer world.”

Special ceremony to take place at religious services on Easter Sunday throughout County Mayo.

New app is suitable for mobile phones, tablets and other electronic devices and is simple to use for active mobile phone users.