PRESS RELEASE
15 MAY 2006
ARCHBISHOP SEÁN BRADY STATEMENT REGARDING
THE CELEBRATION OF EASTER MASS AT THE AUGUSTINIAN PRIORY IN DROGHEDA
“On 18 April last I undertook to seek further details about the exact circumstances
regarding the celebration of Easter Sunday Mass at the Augustinian Priory in Drogheda,
in commemoration of the 1916 Rising.
“I welcome today’s statement – copy attached below – of the Irish Province of the
Augustinian Order and the expression of regret which it contains.
“I have received correspondence from Fr Goode, Fr O’Donovan and Fr Hession and I
note in particular their undertaking to respect the discipline of the Church regarding
the celebration of the Eucharist in future.
“We are all aware of the pain caused by the divisions among Christians and of the need
to constantly recommit ourselves to pray and work patiently for the healing of those
divisions.”
ENDS
Statement on behalf of the Irish Province of the Augustinian Order
The Irish Province of the Augustinian Order deeply regrets the pain, confusion and
damage caused as a result of the Easter Sunday Eucharistic celebration at its church
in Drogheda.
The three Augustinians involved – Fr Richard Goode, Fr Ignatius O’Donovan and Fr
Noel Hession – having reflected on the seriousness of their actions, have written
to the Archbishop of Armagh, Archbishop Seán Brady; to the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop
Giuseppe Lazzarotto; and to Fr Robert Prevost, the Prior General of the Augustinian
Order, who is resident in Rome. Their letter apologises unreservedly for the
ill-considered celebration and gives an absolute commitment as to future conduct
in matters liturgical.
In an effort to bring closure to the issue, neither the Augustinians involved nor
the Augustinian Order, will be making any further statement in relation to the matter.
ENDS
Further information:
Martin Long Director of Communications (086 172 7678)
Brenda Drumm Communications Officer (087 233 7797)