Irish bishops celebrate Mass before meeting with Pope Benedict XVI

15 Feb 2010

PRESS RELEASE
15 February 2010

Irish bishops celebrate Mass before meeting with Pope Benedict XVI

Ahead of their meeting with the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, Irish bishops celebrated Mass this morning (8:00am local) in St Peter’s Basilica, Rome, at the tomb of St Peter which is near to the burial place of Pope John Paul II and other popes.

The concelebrants at this Mass included Cardinal Bertone, who was the main celebrant, Cardinal Re, Cardinal Levada, Cardinal Hummes, Cardinal Rode, Cardinal Grocholewski, Archbishop Coccopalmerio and the Irish bishops. Prayers were offered for the survivors of abuse, the people, priests and religious of Ireland and for the intentions of Pope Benedict XVI. Prayers were also offered for the success of the meeting which takes place today and tomorrow in the Vatican.

Cardinal Seán Brady, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, asked the faithful to continue to pray for healing, reconciliation and renewal. Cardinal Brady prayed for the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the Church in Ireland at this time.

ENDS

Further information:
Martin Long, Director of Communications 086 172 7678