Press Releases15 Dec 22

Archbishops John McDowell and Michael Jackson express condolences on the death of Private Seán Rooney

The following statement has been issued by the Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, the Most Revd John McDowell, and the Archbishop of Dublin, Bishop of Glendalough and Primate of Ireland, the Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson:

‘It was with the deepest sorrow and regret that we learned of the untimely death of Private Seán Rooney on active service in Lebanon.  Our prayers and sympathies are foremost with all those who held him dear and whom he held dear, in both family and community along with his fellow–soldiers who have been injured in this incident.

‘Ireland’s peacekeepers with the United Nations give quiet, honourable and courageous service in the cause of peace and reconciliation each and every day.  We are also very mindful of how every family affected by last night’s events would have been looking forward with hope to Christmas.  In this season as we await the coming of Our Lord as the Prince of Peace, we remember all who grieve and ask for prayer to uphold them in these days and those to come.

‘Jesus in The Sermon on The Mount said: “Blessed are the peacemakers; they shall be called children of God … (St Matthew 5.9).” We remember with gratitude those who make peace, who keep peace and who nurture peace.’

Archbishop Jackson added:

‘Having visited Beirut as part of Dublin and Glendalough’s link with the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, I am well aware of the esteem in which the Irish people are held as a result of their long association with the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon. This contribution is treasured and cherished as are all those who put their lives at the service of peace.

‘At tragic times such as this we are reminded, that while the role of the soldiers on these missions is to act as peacekeepers, they operate in dangerous conditions.’