Diocesan News
The Enlarged Europe - statement from Archbishop Neill
THE ENLARGED EUROPE
a statement from Archbishop Neill
The accession of ten new member states to the European Union this week provides the people of Ireland with the opportunity not only to bring their own distinctive contribution into a greater entity, but also to benefit from the experience and rich diversity that these new members will bring to the European Union.
This country has been moulded by its Christian heritage, and this heritage has been represented by most of the traditions of the Church of the West. Of recent years the Churches of the Orthodox East have enriched this experience, and their contribution will increase in the new Europe.
Ireland has played host to faith communities of other traditions, notably the Jewish community, many from Eastern Europe, and they have for the past century played a significant rôle in public life and made a positive contribution to this country. More recently we have been host to many adherents of Islam, and this faith community is now substantial.
In the life of the new Europe, it is our responsibility to ensure that society is truly inclusive and welcoming, offering a vision of peace, based on a determination to seek opportunities for dialogue and to seek reconciliation wherever there is hurt. Nothing less will be worthy of our Christian calling to lead a life characterised by humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love Ephesians 4:2
Diocesan Communications Officer, Dublin & Glendalough
087 2356472
Contact Details
Lynn Glanville
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