Ceremony to mark 40 years since Pope's visit to Drogheda

 A special prayer service ‘For Ireland and for Humanity’, led by Archbishop Eamon Martin, to commemorate the visit to Ireland of Pope Saint John Paul II in 1979, and of the Holy Father Pope Francis in 2018, will take place on Sunday 29 September, at the Papal Cross outside Drogheda.

Archbishop Martin will lead a prayer service using the text delivered by the Pope Saint John Paul II on 29 September 1979 in Drogheda.

Speaking ahead of the prayer service, Archbishop Martin said:  “The tragedy of violence and conflict continues in many parts of the world today.  In particular, Ireland, north and south, is going through a period of political and economic uncertainty and the imminent introduction of very liberal abortion legislation in Northern Ireland continues to give grave cause for concern.  Creating and maintaining a peaceful society is core to the mission of our Church.  We will use the same prayer service that Pope Saint John Paul II used to pray for peace and reconciliation in Drogheda, 40 years ago.  It is the perfect prayer for us during these troubled and uncertain times.  Some of the key themes of the pontificates of Pope Saint John Paul II and Pope Francis focus on the protection of human rights, violence in society, and the promotion of peace in society.  All are welcome.”

Priests and parishioners in the two dioceses will join with Archbishop Eamon at the Papal Cross as well as in services in their own parishes to be held at the same time, 5pm this Sunday, 29 September.  Archbishop Martin issued an invitation to all to attend.