Press Releases02 Jan 05

Archbishop Eames' New Year message

?In the face of the devastating tragedy in Asia the people of Ireland have once more demonstrated their compassion and generosity. Our response to appeals for help through the Churches and relief agencies has shown how the suffering of the global village has touched our hearts. The year 2005 has dawned with a mind-numbing reminder of the fragility of human life and an urgent call to recognise our common humanity with helpless millions on the other side of the world.

?Here at home this new year calls for the same compassion and generosity in our dealings with one another. Irrespective of what progress we make during 2005 in healing the wounds of the past or building political institutions which will provide stable government, if we do not have compassion and generosity among our people this community will never be at peace with itself.

?Generosity and compassion lead to trust ? and there is no greater need throughout our community in 2005 than a new relationship of trust at all levels of our lives.

?Together we must answer the needs of the world ? but equally, together we must build a new society of generosity, compassion and trust here at home.?