A state reception was held last week in Dublin Castle to honour Cardinal Sean Brady on the occasion of his recent elevation to the College of Cardinals in Rome.

The reception was an opportunity too for friends to meet and renew old acquaintances. Politicians, Church Leaders of all denominations, family and friends and the ordinary people of Ireland north and south poured into the great reception hall of Dublin Castle.

The Taoiseach, Mr Bertie Ahern, in welcoming and congratulating the Cardinal, spoke of the proper stance of the State towards the Churches and faith communities, which he said “should be one of engagement and respectful dialogue”.

 

Mr Ahern went on to compliment the personal qualities of the Cardinal, his pastoral concern for his people, and his record of warmth and engagement with all those who come into contact with him. It was his insistent support for peace and reconciliation now universally admired that made his appointment a truly worthy occasion for celebration.

Thanking the Taoiseach, Cardinal Brady praised the work of the peacemakers pointing out that it was the politicians who made the peace in Northern Ireland.

As Cardinal Brady takes his place in the College of Cardinals our good wishes and prayers go to him that he may find fulfilment in his new and important role in our Church.

“Go mbeidh Dia ann gach lá ag cabhru leis in a ghnó.”