Press Releases
Statement by the Rt Revd Alan Harper, Bishop of Connor, on the recent sectarian violence
'The sequence of acts of sectarian violence in parts of Northern Ireland, especially since July of this year, brings shame upon the whole community. Events in North Belfast and especially around Ballymena and Ahoghill involving attacks upon persons, property and places of worship are completely unacceptable and should call forth the strongest possible condemnation from all persons of influence and, in particular, elected public representatives.
'Whereas all sides of the community have suffered from acts of sectarian hatred, the Roman Catholic community has suffered to a disproportionate extent. On my own behalf and that of the Diocesan Council of the Diocese of Connor, I offer to Bishop Patrick Walsh and the people of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Down and Connor our unreserved sympathy and support.
'Condemnation, however, is insufficient. More is required of us and especially of the Church. It is deeply shocking to discover that it may be that young people barely into their teens have been involved with others in perpetrating acts of intimidation, violence or destruction. If this is so, it should act as a salutary warning. What lessons in life and relationships are we teaching our children? What sort of legacy are we bequeathing our children?s children?
'The Master whom all Christians seek to serve gave to his followers the task of proclaiming by word and deed a Gospel of Reconciliation: nothing in the world is more important for the people of this Province at this time than committed engagement in the hard but vital work of reconciliation.
'Public representatives and Church leaders must stand together and act together to resist acts of evil and to commend and model respectful solidarity. Our community needs positive models of reconciliation from community leaders on every side.
'The Church of Ireland, not least in the Diocese of Connor, is committed to the hard work of reconciliation with our fellow citizens as an essential part of living the Good News of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.'