St. Senan’s Parish in Shannon Co. Clare has become the first parish in the Diocese of Killaloe to operate a live webcam from one of its Churches. The live feed from SS. John and Paul’s Church is being officially launched on Ash Wednesday (13th February 2013) at the beginning of the season of Lent.  The possibility for those who are sick or housebound or away from home to connect with their parish community has been greatly welcomed during the trial period in the lead up to the official launch on Wednesday.

Shannon Parish Priest Fr. Tom Ryan, welcoming the development said; “This is an exciting development for our Parish Community. It allows those who are unable to be physically present to continue to participate in the life of our faith community. Those who were once an integral part of our life of prayer but are now prevented from doing so because of sickness or old age can continue to connect with us in a meaningful way. I am also mindful of our growing emigrant population who can through the use of modern technology stay connected to their roots and join in family celebrations from distant parts of the world.”

The technology has been installed and maintained by Ennis based company Acton BV. Speaking about the launch of the Shannon Webcam, Acton BV Director Michael Byrne said; “Shannon Parish has been one of the great success stories of the Information age when it comes to Parish websites. Since we started working with the Shannon Parish Council 4 years ago they have developed a vibrant ministry in cyberspace. Their parish website is one of the most successful in the country receiving almost 50,000 visitors a month. They are active on Facebook and Twitter and the installation of the webcam was the next logical step. We are delighted at the reception and usage of the webcam during the trial period and see it as a model for other parishes to follow”

The webcam can be accessed through the Shannon Parish Website at www.shannonparish.ie. Mass is broadcast each weekday evening at 7.00pm, on Saturdays at 6.30pm and on Sundays at 10.00am and 12.15pm. Other liturgies such as weddings, funerals and the Annual Matt Talbot Novena will also stream live on the web throughout the year.

Check out live streaming from Shannon Parish here: www.shannonparish.ie/our-parish/webcam/