Press Releases
NEW YEAR MESSAGE 1998
From the The Most Reverend Dr Robin Eames, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland
As we approach a new year in Northern Ireland our hopes for a future of peace and stability are tinged by the reminder of recent events that there are still some within both of our communities who see violence as the only way forward. We are surrounded by hope and a longing for permanent peace - but we all know the ever present risk of being dragged back into the darkness of murder and destruction. At this time none of us can plead ignorance of the consequences of violence and division. History will not judge kindly any of those who seek by word or action to push us all back into that darkness. As a community we must make our united voice heard - we do not want to go back and we will not go back.
But the path forward will not be easy. It is full of traps and problems. The cost of peace is great - but the prize is inestimable. We who have endured the darkness owe it to our children to find the path forward. The responsibility resting on governments and politicians is immense. They must not fail us. But we must not fail them when courage and vision are needed. The memory of all those who have been lost and the hurt of so many families make it imperative that we find that path forward. 1998 can be the year of great possibility for all of us. There is no substitute for trust across the barriers.
The key question is - how much do we really want to succeed? The power of Protestants and Roman Catholics united in the desire to move forward together is great enough to overcome all obstacles. That power can be unleashed if we really want it to be. May God grant us the courage to find that path in 1998 and may His peace guide us all in our personal effort to make this new year the turning point.
Further information from:
THE CHURCH OF IRELAND PRESS OFFICE
Church of Ireland House
61 - 67 Donegall Street
Belfast BT1 2QH