Cathedral bells have rung out in dioceses across the country calling people to celebrate St Patrick's Day in solidarity and prayer.
Most masses remain suspended over fears around coronavirus and many were accessible this morning via webcam or radio, to ensure congregations wouldn't gather in churches.
At the ceremony of the blessing of the Shamrock in Dublin's Pro-Cathedral, the Archbishop of Dublin noted that Saint Patrick's Day 2020, is different. "We are in a difficult situation and one that will not see its end for some time.
We are being asked to take very restrictive measures. We are obliged to respond with a sense of personal responsibility and civic duty", he said.