Press Releases
ARCHBISHOP EMPEY APPEALS FOR PRAYERS FOR PEACE
The following statement has been issued by the Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Rev Dr Walton Empey:
Orange and Green intransigence is once again bringing Northern Ireland to the brink of disaster. Despite the expressed wish of the people of the whole island to give peace a chance, once again we watch helplessly as demands for rights consume efforts at reconciliation. In the headlong rush towards confrontation there seems to be no place for God.
The extremeists on both sides are much in evidence and it is easy to forget those who day in and day out and year in and year out, work to build bridges of understanding at all levels of society. Amongst them are clergy and laity of all denominations, politicians and church leaders; I particularly think of Archbishop Eames, who during his twelve years as Primate of the Church of Ireland, has been a voice of moderation in a maelstrom of extremism.
I know that Christians everywhere are praying for a lasting peace. I urge them to redouble their efforts, particularly this coming Sunday, 12th July, and especially to remember those who against all the odds continue to strive for reconciliation.
Further information from:
THE CHURCH OF IRELAND PRESS OFFICE
Church of Ireland House
61 - 67 Donegall Street
Belfast BT1 2QH