Press Releases30 Sep 16

Church and Society Commission Focuses on Homelessness in the Republic of Ireland

The Church and Society Commission of the Church of Ireland organised a seminar on homelessness in the Republic of Ireland on Monday (26th September) at Griffith College, Dublin.  The event was attended by over 30 clergy and other church leaders who heard presentations from Phil Thompson, Chief Executive of Tiglin Challenge, David Carroll, Director of Services and Development with Depaul Ireland, and Fr Peter McVerry. Glenn Cronin, a self–employed engineer, shared his experience of being homeless and how support from Tiglin helped him to overcome difficulties in his life and find housing and employment.

The seminar was opened by the Archbishop of Dublin, The Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson, who suggested that the noun ‘homelessness’ could be impersonal when referring to people living without a home.  Archbishop Jackson emphasised: “There is a person or a family at the heart of the word to whom the abstract noun does not do justice to the public and private panic.”

Issues discussed during the seminar included the need to address addictions, engaging with homeless people on a personal level, and the impact of homelessness on a person’s ability to have education, employment and good health.  Speakers encouraged the Churches to speak out about homelessness, provide pastoral support, and encourage members to volunteer with others who are working on the issue.

The Revd Adrian Dorrian, Chairman of the Church and Society Commission, remarked: “Today’s event was not only challenging but also inspiring as we heard from organisations which are restoring dignity to people who face the challenge of homelessness.  We must recognise the image of God in others, regardless of their personal circumstances.  We would encourage people to find out more about organisations dealing with homelessness, pray in an informed way, and recognise that Churches have a privileged position to speak and be advocates for homeless people.”