Press Releases19 Apr 05

Papal election - statement by the Rt Rev'd Peter F Barrett, Bishop of Cashel & Ossory and Chair of the Christian Unity Committee of the Church of Ireland

The announcement of the election of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI is an historic occasion for the Church. We extend to the new Pope our sincere and prayerful good wishes in the risen Lord at the commencement of his papacy. We extend also to our brothers and sisters in the Roman Catholic Church in Ireland, the assurance of our ongoing commitment to the ecumenical pilgrimage at home and on a wider scale, our continued support of the ARCIC dialogue.

It is fitting that the new pontificate should begin in this Easter season of joy and gladness, as we continue to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, who ?makes all things new? and who, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, calls us to reflect together upon the mystery of His loving presence in the Church and in the world.

May the ministry of Pope Benedict XVI draw us closer in the love of the blessed Trinity and so inspire us to a deeper awareness of our calling in Christ to be a pilgrim people of blessing through joint witness and service to God?s Kingdom of faith, hope and love.

Blessed be God

+ Peter Cashel