Press Releases
Statement by the Most Revd Richard Clarke, Bishop of Meath and Kildare
Statement by the Most Revd Richard Clarke, Bishop of Meath and Kildare and Chairman of the Church of Ireland Commission for Christian Unity and Dialogue
I deeply regret the comments of the Archbishop of Canterbury to the BBC, that the Roman Catholic Church in Ireland is “losing all credibility”. Whereas it is clearly true that the Roman Catholic Church in this country is facing deep and serious challenges to its authority as a consequence of clerical abuse scandals, this careless and reckless use of language by Archbishop Williams is extremely unfortunate.
As those of us who live in this country know very well, most bishops, priests and religious of the Roman Catholic tradition minister faithfully and selflessly under very difficult conditions with the love and support of their people. All credibility has most certainly not been lost to the Church, and it is deeply hurtful to Roman Catholic clergy and laity alike, and indeed to those of other Christian traditions, that such a thoughtless remark should be made by Archbishop Williams. It should be remembered that the archbishop has neither experience of Irish life nor any direct ecclesiastical authority in this country. I hope that he will reflect on his comments, and I deeply regret the hurt that he has caused.
As Christians on this island prepare to celebrate the great Easter mystery, I hope that we will together pray for the resurgence of Christian faith and hope in this land in the light and glory of the Resurrection of Our Lord.
Bishop Richard Clarke
Chairman, Church of Ireland Commission for Christian Unity and Dialogue
Contact Details
Lynn Glanville
Diocesan Communications Officer, Dublin & Glendalough
087 2356472
[email protected]