A parish priest in West Waterford says he's delighted that he will be able to hold in-person ceremonies again.
Places of worship will open their doors again to the public on Tuesday, with facemasks now compulsory.
Under Level three up 50 people are allowed at mass, but the number of people allowed at weddings and funerals remains at 25.
Father Pat Gear, Parish Priest of Cappoquin, Modelligo and Affane says he's especially delighted for the older parishioners.
"It's the news we've been waiting for. We've waited six weeks now and we, of course, had the lockdown previous to that.
"We are happy to have the mass back for ourselves, but also for our senior folk- mass is very much part of their lives and their day."
Father Gear says that it's it will be great to welcome people back especially over the Christmas period.
"Christmas is that ultra special time for people, you have many people coming home and wanting to come to church.
"Especially with the tradition of coming to church on Christmas Eve and then with their children on Christmas day."
