Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin Diocese Denis Nulty has said despite the frustration expressed by parishioners over his decision to postpone confirmations, "health has to trump everything".
Speaking on RTÉ's Drivetime, Bishop Nulty said these ceremonies will be celebrated when it is safe to do so and "public health is crucial".
The two planned confirmation ceremonies, one for the Portlaoise area in O'Moore Park and a second for four Kilkenny parishes in Nowlan Park, have been moved to the 18 and 9 September respectively due to rising cases of Covid-19.
He said he made the decision as public health is crucial and added that he is getting calls of complaint from parishioners.
Bishop Nulty said the engagement with the Government on the further reopening of religious activity has been "very lacking".
The church is a critical factor in our society, the bishop added.
He said the hospitality industry is subject to one metre social distancing, while the church is subject to two metre social distancing even though they are much larger buildings.
This needs to be addressed, he argued, adding "it's critical for our churches and our mass going population."
Around 300 children from nine different schools were set to receive their confirmation at the GAA grounds in O'Moore Park on Saturday 28 August.
However, in a message to parents and guardians, the parish announced that the ceremony has been postponed until September.
The Portlaoise confirmation ceremonies were initially postponed at the end of June and were rescheduled for O'Moore Park, which has capacity for 7,000 people.
After consultation with public health experts, school authorities, parents and GAA authorities at O'Moore Park, it was felt that the ceremonies could be held safely at the stadium.
A similar confirmation ceremony is planned at Nowlan Park GAA stadium in Kilkenny in early September.
Parish Priest Monsignor John Byrne said the parish has been in regular communication with school authorities and parents, while also keeping a close eye on public health advice.
