A Pastoral Message in the light of the Referendum result

As the result of the Referendum on Friday May 25th sinks in there is great disappointment among pro-life people. Our Irish Constitution now goes silent regarding the unborn and their human right to life.

Those who campaigned for the right to life of the unborn left no stone unturned. We owe them a debt of gratitude. We think especially of those from our own communities.

There is need for all to reflect for a time on the campaign and the results. There is a need also for emotions to settle and heal. The past two months have been very difficult for those campaigning and for the country as a whole.

The pro-life task of the Church in Ireland is to continue to lead hearts and minds to always choose and cherish life. In the words of Pope Francis:

“Human life must always be defended from its beginning in the womb and must be recognised as a gift of God that guarantees the future of humanity.” (Letter to Brazilian families for National Family Week, August 6, 2013)

His words remind us that this is already the position of both the Church and pro-life people in so many nations worldwide. We are most familiar with this in England and the U.S.

We are called to bear witness to the rights of both the pregnant woman and the unborn child with both compassion and mercy. In our prayers let us remember mothers and fathers and families everywhere and in all circumstances. Remember especially all coping with difficult pregnancies. Our hope is in Christ our Saviour. His Way is always the way of love. Amid all difficulties may love give strength and courage, and may love prevail.

As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you.

Remain in my love.

This is my commandment,

love one another, as I have loved you.    Jn 15:9-13

 

Bishop Ray Browne

Diocese of Kerry

Trinity Sunday 2018.