“To the Most Reverend Seán Brady
Archbishop of Armagh
President
Irish Bishops’ Conference


The Holy Father was pleased to learn of a programme proposed by the Irish Bishops to 
commemorate his visit to Ireland in 1979.  He remembers with gratitude and joy the 
liturgies and encounters in various places and the warm welcome he received.

During his visit His holiness reminded the people of Ireland of how their fidelity to 
Christ and the Church had enabled them in the past to endure moments of great difficulty 
and indeed to share their faith with people throughout the world.  He encouraged them 
to commit themselves to the saving message of the Gospel and become a leaven within 
society, knowing that ‘Christ has the answers to your questions and the key to history; 
he has the power to uplift hearts’ (John Paul II, Homily at the Mass for the youth of 
Ireland, Galway 30 September 1979).

On this Twenty-fifth anniversary, the Holy Father joins the Bishops of Ireland, the 
clergy, religious and lay faithful in prayer for renewed vigour and a fresh dedication 
to the faith.  He prays especially that, through the intercession of Saint Patrick, 
the people of Ireland will set an example to others of Christian life in this new 
Millennium.

Entrusting the Church in Ireland to Mary, Mother of God, His holiness imparts his 
Apostolic Blessing as a pledge of peace and joy in our Lord Jesus Christ

Cardinal Angelo Sodano

Secretary of State”