VATICAN CITY, SEP 4, 2004 (VIS) - Philip McDonagh, the new ambassador of Ireland to the Holy See, was welcomed to Castelgandolfo this morning by the Holy Father who accepted his Letters of Credence.
The Pope, in his talk in English, highlighted Ireland's "ancient heritage of warm hospitality and generous assistance to those in need. ... In this spirit of assistance to those in need Ireland has done much within the international community to alleviate suffering by providing financial assistance, educational opportunities and professional guidance, and by sending emergency relief funds and peace-keeping troops when requested. "
He noted the "unwritten story of so many Irish men and women who have dedicated their lives to serve others," and pointed to "the late Archbishop Michael Courtney, who offered the supreme sacrifice of his life to bring peace and well-being to the suffering people of Burundi" as apostolic nuncio in that nation.
"The experience of generations of Irish emigrants," he continued, "has made your people aware of the serious difficulties and precarious conditions often encountered by individuals and families seeking a new beginning in a foreign land. … The plight of refugees and those displaced by poverty, war or persecution is particularly dramatic and calls for special consideration and generosity. The Holy See hopes that the steps taken during the Irish presidency of the European Union in favour of policies of openness to other peoples will continue to inspire the community's attitude to immigrants from other continents and cultures."
Speaking of Ireland's "remarkable economic growth, he said that "a more prosperous society has greater possibilities of becoming a more just and open society, but it is also faced with new challenges, including the danger of a certain spiritual impoverishment and indifference to the deeper moral and religious dimensions of life." He said that "aspirations to become a profoundly modern society" must include "reaffirming above all the incomparable dignity and the right to life of each human person."
Citing the ambassador's words on "Ireland's hopes for the peace process," the Pope said he prays "that every effort is being made to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the Good Friday Agreement, which has given new impulse and new hope to the people of Northern Ireland. … May the initiatives of all those who seek peace and reconciliation be blessed by God's grace and bear fruit for the children of tomorrow."
CD/LETTERS CREDENCE/IRELAND VIS 20040906 (400)
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