PRESS RELEASE
5 APRIL 2005
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS MARK THE DEATH
OF POPE JOHN PAUL II
The Commission for Education of the Irish Episcopal Conference thanks the
Minister for Education and Science, Ms Mary Hanafin TD, for providing the
option to School Boards of Management to close or remain open for the day
of the funeral of Pope John Paul II on Friday 8th April 2005.
The local School Board of Management is asked to consult with neighbouring
Boards of Management about closing. Should the Board of Management decide
that the school remain open, it should arrange that pupils attend Mass
where possible or conduct a prayer service for the happy repose of the
soul of Pope John Paul II. In addition the school is encouraged to facilitate
educational activities around the life and work of the Holy Father, John Paul II.
Otherwise schools are asked to appropriately commemorate the death of the
late Pope.
The Executive Secretary of the Bishops’ Commission for Education, Monsignor
Jim Cassin said, “On Friday, the entire Church gives thanks for the Ministry
of Pope John Paul II and prays for his eternal rest in the House of the Father.
“Bishops are encouraging children and teachers in schools under Catholic
patronage to participate in Masses and liturgies that have now been arranged
at parish and diocesan level commemorating the Holy Father.”
“Catholic education was close to the heart of the Holy Father and throughout
his Pontificate he invited Catholic schools to become ‘dynamic communities of
faith and evangelisation’*”, concluded Monsignor Cassin.
ENDS
Further information:
Martin Long Director of Communications (086 172 7678)
Brenda Drumm Communications Officer (087 233 7797)
Notes for Editors
*Discourse to CEEC (European Committee for Catholic Education) in 2001
