Please see below a joint statement in response to last Monday’s attack on Masjid Maryam Mosque in Galway:
Statement
We unequivocally and without hesitation condemn the recent malicious, unprovoked attack on Masjid Maryam Mosque.
Coming during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and during Mosque prayers makes such loutish, criminal behaviour particularly outrageous. Our city has always enjoyed excellent inter-faith relations. This attack serves to further our resolve, and the resolve of our faith communities, to work and pray to ensure that these relationships are further deepened.
At this difficult time we together offer our full and wholehearted support to Imam Ibrahim Ahmad Noonan, to the Ahmadiyyan Muslim Association of Ireland and to our Muslims brothers and sisters here in Galway and throughout Ireland.
In an increasingly secular world, we look forward to further strengthening our bonds of cooperation, friendship, respect, prayer and peace.
Very Rev Canon Michael McLoughlin
Diocesan Administrator
Representing the Roman Catholic Church
Archdeacon Gary Hastings
Rector of the Collegiate Church of Saint Nicholas
Representing the Church of Ireland
Rev Helen Freeburn
Representing the Methodist Church and the Presbyterian Church
Richard Kimball
Representing The Religious Society of Friends in Ireland
ENDS
For media contact: Catholic Communications Office, Maynooth: Martin Long 00353 (0) 86 172 7678
