Diocesan News
Statement of the Archbishop of Dublin Following Weekend Attack on Coptic Christians
The Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson, has expressed his solidarity with the Coptic Church after the latest terror attack in Egypt on Friday (26 May) left 29 Christians dead. A further 24 people were injured in the attack in the Minya region, which targeted pilgrims who were visiting the monastery of Saint Samuel the Confessor. Daesh has claimed responsibility.
In a statement Dr Jackson said: “Having had the opportunity to worship with members of the Coptic Orthodox Community in Ireland only 10 days ago at the dedication of a new church in the Coptic tradition in Drumcondra, I should like to express my sadness and sorrow to Pope Tawadros II and all the Coptic Christians in light of the most recent attack and atrocity perpetrated on Coptic Christians in Egypt.
“I have spent the last two days in Jerusalem with The Lord Mayor of Dublin and members of his staff team. We have had a range of in–depth consultations and discussions with members of three World Faiths. It has become increasingly clear to us that respect for human life is sacrosanct and that it lies at the base of political life, dialogue and civil society.
“I wish to add my sympathy to that of others for those who mourn the loss of those whom they love and cherish in the most recent tragedy. As I pray for the Copts in Egypt and around the world, my prayer is also that God will turn to good the hearts of those who are their murderers.”
Archbishop Jackson is a member of the Anglican Oriental Orthodox International Commission and will be hosting its meeting in Dublin in October 2017.
For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Dublin & Glendalough
087 235 6472
Mrs Lynn Glanville
[email protected]