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Special prayers for politicians will be said in parishes and churches in the Republic of Ireland and in Northern Ireland this Sunday, 29 July 2001, as the political process reaches a critical stage.
The four main church leaders have requested congregations to remember in their prayers all those who have serious decisions to make as they consider the response of the two Governments to the recent discussions on the political future of Northern Ireland.
Roman Catholic Archbishop Sean Brady said: "I encourage all people of goodwill to reflect on the critical stage we have reached in the peace process and to pray that God will guide all who have serious political decisions to make at this time. The long-term future and wellbeing of us all is at stake. The political progress made to date must be consolidated and built upon. The very fragile peace we enjoy at present must be strengthened."
Presbyterian Moderator Dr Alastair Dunlop said: "I want to urge people to pray that God will guide all who have serious political decisions to make at this time. Outbreaks of inter community violence continue to occur. Lives and property continue to be damaged. The prayers of God's people for the whole community are a power for good."
Church of Ireland Primate, Archbishop Robin Eames, said: "While prayers are usually said each Sunday in Church of Ireland parishes for elected representatives I feel we have a clear duty to call on our people to pray that God will guide all those who carry such a heavy responsibility at this time. The violence we are seeing on our streets where there is such a risk to the lives of the innocent, including little children, must be challenged in God's name."
Methodist Church President, Reverend Harold Good, said: "In praying for our political representatives, an end to vicious sectarian violence and a lasting peace let us commit ourselves to being part of the answer to the prayers we pray."
Issued on behalf of the Four Church Leaders by by Brian Parkes, Church of Ireland Press Office. Info@PresbyterianIreland.org
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