Press Releases
SERVICE OF REFLECTION
St Patrick's Cathedral, Armagh
Thursday 4 September 1997 - 8 pm
following death of Diana, Princess of Wales
EXTRACTS FROM ADDRESS BY THE MOST REVEREND DR ROBIN EAMES, ARCHBISHOP OF ARMAGH
This service has three components.
First, with quiet dignity it allows us all to reflect in the Cathedral on the tragic event which a few days ago claimed the lives of three people in Paris. All of them were loved by those nearest and dearest to them. All of them have left families and friends bereft, shocked and saddened. Among them the young life of Diana, Princess of Wales, has been cut down so suddenly and in such tragic circumstances. From our sight has gone one whose life and image was lived out under the microscope of public scrutiny : a scrutiny which makes its own judgements of those in public life. The reaction to her death has proved that she held a very special place in the hearts and minds of this nation and across the world.
Second, this simple service allows us within the quietness of our own hearts and minds to reflect in God's presence on why there has been such a world reaction to her death. We recall before God who is the ultimate judge of us all and our lives and whose judgement is one of mercy a young life of service, dedicated motherhood and beauty. Her work for a large number of charities brought hope to many. A great many will be the poorer for her passing. But we also remember a human life of great vulnerability.
Third, we will pray for those who will miss her most. Among them tonight there are two young Princes whose feelings are impossible for us to imagine. On the threshold of their lives we remember them before the God of love and understanding. May they and all the family be upheld by the grace of the God of comfort : may those who support them be given guidance and strength.
Just some aspects for our reflection ...
But there is one which transcends all of them. In this Cathedral we are in the presence of God from whom none of the secrets of our hearts are hidden. It is in that presence that we reflect on the forgiveness and compassion of the God to whom all of us are unique and made in His image. Quietly, let us place all our reflections at His feet as those who bring so many thoughts which we find hard to express at this time.
Truly, we all have much to reflect upon this evening.
Further information from:
THE CHURCH OF IRELAND PRESS OFFICE
Church of Ireland House
61 - 67 Donegall Street
Belfast BT1 2QH