News
Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Limerick becomes Cathedral of Sanctuary
Saint Mary’s designated Cathedral of Sanctuary
Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Limerick received its Cathedral of Sanctuary designation, awarded by Places of Sanctuary Ireland at its Harvest Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, 4 October. Speaking in the Cathedral, the CEO of Places of Sanctuary Ireland (PoSI), Mr Rory O’Neill, commended St Mary’s on receiving this designation and he highlighted PoSI’s work, whose goal is to promote a culture of welcome, and inclusiveness across every sphere and sector of society, so that wherever people seeking sanctuary go they will feel safe, find people who welcome them and understand why they are here and have opportunities to be included in all activities. Also in attendance for the presentation was Mr John Lanon, CEO of Limerick–based human rights organisation Doras and a trustee of PoSI.
Trustee for Places of Sanctuary Ireland, the Very Revd Abigail Sines, Dean of Meath said: “As a trustee for Places of Sanctuary Ireland and convenor of the Sanctuary in Faith stream, I am delighted that Saint Mary’s Cathedral have taken this step and gone through the process to be recognised as a Cathedral of Sanctuary. The Church or Cathedral of Sanctuary process is one that begins with commitment and learning, embracing an ethos of welcome and raising awareness around current issues for those who are refugees or seeking international protection in Ireland. This commitment can take many different forms: from welcoming people of all backgrounds to be part of community activities, to forming interfaith friendships, to connecting with and supporting other organisations that act in solidarity with people seeking sanctuary. We look forward to Saint Mary’s participation as part of the Sanctuary in Faith stream and the wider Places of Sanctuary Ireland network.”
Dean of Saint Mary’s, the Very Revd Niall Sloane said: “I am delighted that Saint Mary’s Cathedral has been designated as a Cathedral of sanctuary. There are so many people suffering exclusion, indignity and hurt as a result of prejudices in our society that often lie hidden beneath the surfact. Our Cathedral community has committed itself to offering a Christian welcome and a safe space in what can be, for so many, a frightening world.”
