Entrance Hymn: As I kneel before you

Life Issues:

Valuing every life in every condition
We believe that an absolute commitment to dignity, value and right to life of every person – at every stage and in every condition of life – is vital for the sustaining of a vibrant, hope-filled cohesive, flourishing society.  This commitment must be part of our political dialogue and the actions of those whom we elect.  Over recent years, we have witnessed a diminution in the respect for human life in our political discourse.  The value of people’s lives seems to be calculated as if it were simply part of a cost-benefit analysis.  Where is the hope in this? In recent years we have witnessed the introduction of a very liberal abortion law in Ireland.  Since the introduction of the legislation in 2018, 40,000 abortions have been carried out in Ireland.  And some politicians want to make it even more liberal.  Now we have efforts being made to make legislative provision for ‘assisted dying’ in Ireland.  A recent report from an Oireachtas Committee has made recommendations to the incoming Government that assisted dying be allowed in certain, restricted circumstances.  We totally reject that recommendation because a fundamental principle of civilised society is that no person can lawfully take the life of another. 

Assisted Suicide

The Irish Bishops have issued the following statement:

“Assisted suicide, far from being an expression of autonomy, is a failure of care.  By legislating for assisted suicide or euthanasia, the State would contribute to undermining the confidence of people who are terminally ill, who want to be cared for and want to live life as fully as possible until death naturally comes. In our culture, we rightly hold doctors and nurses in high esteem because they are presumed always to be at the service of life, for as long as their patient lives.  We call on Catholics to stand firmly in support of nurses and doctors who stand for life.  One day it may be your life.”

Life of the Unborn The Pro Life Movement in Ireland is offering an online information session. These are the details:

“Ireland, Abortion and Advocating for Life in 2025”
Hosted by the Pro Life Campaign. March 3rd 7.30pm-8.30pm.
Online free information event, register at prolifecampaign.ie/events

Recent Death: Finbarr Murphy, Doyle Rd. May he rest in peace. We offer our sympathy and prayers to his family, friends and neighbours.

A Mhuire Mháthair

priest and lamb the throne is thine

king whose reign shall never cease

prince or everlasting peace

Refrain

Angels saints and nations sing

praised be Jesus Christ our king

Lord of life, earth, sky and sea

king of love on Calvary

Rule our hearts, our minds, our wills;

Till in peace, each nation rings

With thy praises, King of kings.

Refrain