Meath Peace Group tribute to John Hume
Father Paul Farren, Administrator of the Cathedral of Saint Eugene in Derry, yesterday met with the Hume family in preparation for Wednesday`s Funeral Mass for John Hume.
Father Farren said: “Pat and her family are very grateful for the outpouring of love and support following the death of their beloved John. The family are anxious that a public gathering for John`s funeral might inadvertently put someone`s health at risk in the context of the current COVID19 pandemic, and are asking that people express their grief by staying at home and joining with the Hume family in a ‘Celebration of Light for Peace`.”
Father Farren continued: “Instead of lining roads and streets to show respect to John, it is the wish of the Hume family that we remain at home and, at 9.00pm, light a candle and join with the family to pray the Prayer for Peace of Saint Francis of Assisi in the presence of John`s body in the Cathedral. This `Celebration of Light for Peace` is a fitting tribute to a much loved and distinguished Irishman.”
Julitta Clancy, on behalf of the Meath Peace Group, says: "As we light a candle to the memory of John Hume tonight, let it be a symbol not just of remembrance and thanks, but also of renewed commitment to cherishing and safeguarding the peace and justice which he worked all his life for, inspiring so many in his courageous commitment to nonviolence and the principles of inclusivity and respect for difference.
"Our deepest condolences go to his wife Pat, his family, friends, and colleagues, the people of Derry and all who mourn for him today."
Prayer of Peace by Saint Francis of Assisi
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.
O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.
PHOTO: JOHN QUIRKE