Together with the priests, religious and lay faithful of the Diocese of Achonry, 
I join my prayers with those of a watching and saddened world.  
 
Pope John Paul 11, has been an inspiration and spiritual presence to people 
everywhere - some for their entire lifetime.  His death is the continuation 
of his Pilgrim way.  Often referring to his own journey and ours as that of 
"wayfarer" and "pilgrim", our hope is that his journey, now complete, finds 
him spiritually reunited with his family, friends and in the Eternal Presence 
of God, whom he so faithfully and tirelessly served on earth.
 
I will celebrate Mass in St. Nathy's Cathedral, Ballaghaderreen on Wednesday 
next, April 6th at 8pm.  I invite the people and priests of our diocese to 
join me in prayer, either at this Mass or at Mass in their own parishes and 
communities at times to be arranged.  
 
Indeed, keeping in mind the Holy Father's faithfulness to Mary, I encourage 
all to journey through the mysteries of the Rosary, including the Mysteries 
of Light added by Pope John Paul 11, as we come to terms with his death.
 
May he rest in the peace he sought, taught, lived and preached.
 
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
                                                                              
+ Thomas Flynn
Bishop of Achonry
4 April 2005