Statement of Archbishop Michael Neary on the death of Fr Declan O’Toole

22 Mar 2002

Statement of Archbishop Michael Neary on the death of Fr Declan O’Toole 

Like many people, I am shocked and profoundly saddened at the news that Fr Declan O’ Toole has been murdered in Uganda together with two of his parishioners.  Only a few years ago, I had the very great pleasure of ordaining Fr Declan to the priesthood in his parish church of Claran, Headford.  It is hard to believe that the life and ministry of this dedicated and thoroughly likable young priest could have been ended in such a brutal and untimely manner.

I offer my most sincere sympathy to his family, neighbours and friends and to his brother priests in the Mill Hill order.  May God bring Fr Declan and his two companions to himself and forgive those who have so cruelly murdered them.  As Fr Declan would have wished we should pray especially at this time for Uganda and its people.

+Michael Neary
Archbishop of Tuam

22 March 2002

ENDS

Issued by the Catholic Communications Office
on behalf of Dr Michael Neary, Archbishop of Tuam

Further information:
Catholic Communications Office: (01) 601 6400
Ms Brenda Drumm: 087 233 7797