Catholic Archbishops issue Statement for National Day of Mourning

13 Sep 2001

Catholic Archbishops issue statement for National Day of Mourning

13 September 2001

The following is the text of a statement today, issued by the four Archbishops on behalf of the Irish Bishops’ Conference regarding the National Day of Mourning:

The world has been stunned by the terrible acts that brought death and  destruction on Tuesday last to the United States. Already very many people have turned in heartfelt prayer to the Lord to find strength and hope in the face of such unspeakable cruelty.

At this time of great sadness and distress we invite everyone to continue to pray for the victims and their families, and for the people of the United States. Tomorrow, the National Day of Mourning, we ask all who can do so, to attend Mass or other religious service, as a mark of respect, and to pray for those who have died. In union with people of goodwill everywhere, we raise our voice to God, at this time, for the healing of the injured and the consolation of the bereaved. We pray that people do not allow themselves to be dominated by hatred and a spirit of retaliation but may be guided to seek alternative solutions to the problem of terrorism.

+Most Reverend Sean Brady, Archbishop of Armagh.

+His Eminence Cardinal Desmond Connell, Archbishop of Dublin.

+Most Reverend Dermot Clifford, Archbishop of Cashel and Emly.

+Most Reverend Michael Neary, Archbishop of Tuam.

September 13, 2001

ENDS

Further information:
Fr Martin Clarke (087 220 8044)
Ms Brenda Drumm (087 233 7797)