His Holiness is pleased to be informed of the rite of dedication at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh after major restoration. On the happy occasion, the Holy Father sends cordial greetings to the whole Archdiocesan community and commends the priests, religious and laity to the prayerful intercession of their heavenly Patron. The restoration of the Cathedral of the Primatial See of all Ireland is of special significance. While the building remains a symbol of the Church, the edifice of God made of living stones (Pt2:5), is also becomes a sign of the earnest desire for a revitalised Church strengthened in fidelity to our Lord. His Holiness is confident that as the community gathers round the altar in this ancient land of faith, it will continue to bear witness to the world of the sure knowledge that in Christ all things are renewed (cf. Eph 1:7-10). Entrusting the faithful of the Archdiocese and of Ireland to the protection of Our Lady of Knock, His Holiness cordially imparts his Apostolic Blessing. Given at the Vatican 3 April, 2003 (The Message from Pope John Paul II was read by His Excellency Archbishop Giuseppe Lazzarotto, Apostolic Nuncio to Ireland) |