PRESS RELEASE
4 APRIL 2005
STATEMENT BY THE MOST REVEREND THOMAS FLYNN,
BISHOP OF ACHONRY
ON THE DEATH OF POPE JOHN PAUL II
Together with the priests, religious and lay faithful of the Diocese of
Achonry, I join my prayers with those of a watching and saddened world.
Pope John Paul 11, has been an inspiration and spiritual presence to
people everywhere – some for their entire lifetime. His death is the
continuation of his Pilgrim way. Often referring to his own journey
and ours as that of “wayfarer” and “pilgrim”, our hope is that his
journey, now complete, finds him spiritually reunited with his family,
friends and in the Eternal Presence of God, whom he so faithfully and
tirelessly served on earth.
I will celebrate Mass in St. Nathy’s Cathedral, Ballaghaderreen on
Wednesday next, April 6th at 8pm. I invite the people and priests of
our diocese to join me in prayer, either at this Mass or at Mass in
their own parishes and communities at times to be arranged.
Indeed, keeping in mind the Holy Father’s faithfulness to Mary, I
encourage all to journey through the mysteries of the Rosary, including
the Mysteries of Light added by Pope John Paul 11, as we come to terms
with his death.
May he rest in the peace he sought, taught, lived and preached.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
+Thomas Flynn,
Bishop of Achonry
4th April 2005
Further information:
Martin Long Director of Communications (086 172 7678)
Brenda Drumm Communications Officer (087 233 7797)
