Father Dan Mason, National Catholic Chaplain for Gypsies, Roma, and Travellers for the Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, has called for solidarity with GRT communities during the COVID-19 pandemic:
“Our sisters and brothers in the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Communities are among those being hardest hit by the pandemic. Insecure accommodation and employment will leave many people particularly vulnerable.
“As our Bishops reminded us on Racial Justice Sunday these communities are at the heart of our Church. I hope that Catholics across England and Wales will continue to show solidarity at this difficult time through your prayers, parish initiatives and supporting charities through the National Emergencies Trust.
“I urge all those in the Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller Communities to keep yourselves safe by using the guidance available from the Traveller Movement. As a Church, we also call on the Government to ensure that no one is excluded from the emergency support being made available.
“As we commemorate the re-dedication of our country as the Dowry of Mary, we ask for the intercession and the help of Our Lady of Walsingham.”
