Extracts from homily of Archbishop Diarmuid Martin at Mass for the Philippine community

17 Nov 2013

Extracts from homily of Archbishop Diarmuid Martin at Mass for the Philippine community

St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral,Dublin, Sunday 17 November 2013

 “As the news broke earlier this week of the horrendous disaster that took place in the Philippines, I immediately wanted to find an occasion to be with some representatives of the Philippine community here in Dublin and to join with you in prayer as we remember those who died and as we remember those whose homes and livelihoods have been shattered.  I think especially of the children, of the many are who are injured or are missing, of those who mourn and of those who still seek their lost loved ones.

I think of you here in Dublin who are so far from home on an occasion like this and who live with uncertainties about your families and friends.  The Christian community here in Dublin is with you and will continue to stand by you.

The message of today’s Gospel is also about the significance of the Temple.  Jesus is telling us that worship of God belongs no longer just within one Temple, but it belongs to all peoples who come in spirit and in truth.  Jesus message reaches out to all peoples and unites all peoples.  That is the spirit in which we are united here this evening.  That is the spirit which demands that all Christians rise up in solidarity when their brothers and sisters in any part of the world are in sorrow.

I hope that the Christian community here in Dublin will witness to their solidarity with the Philippine people with great generosity, so that your people and your country will soon regain peace and serenity, that families will be reunited and that even in their loss they will be able to face the future knowing that they are surrounded by men and women who witness to the loving care of Jesus Christ.

The message of Jesus about the future of creation and where the world is going is in fact a message about how we live today.  It is a message that goodness can prevail and that goodness will prevail if we respond united in solidarity, living lives of goodness, generosity and love.

May the Lord be with you in your grief and anguish.  May the Lord sustain those who mourn.  May the Lord give you strength to face the future.  May the Lord grant rest to those who have died.” ENDS

 Further Information: Annette O Donnell 087 8143462

  • Photos available this evening’s Mass from John Mc Ilroy Photos 087 2416985
  • Collections for disaster relief in the Philippines and in Syria are being taken up at all Masses in the Archdiocese of Dublin this weekend