TWO prominent priests are coming to Lenadoon as part of the annual St Oliver Plunkett Talks during Féile an Phobail.
On Tuesday, August 5, Father Tim Bartlett will be speaking on the topic of ‘God and Caesar - How Should Church and State Relate in Ireland Today?’ Fr Bartlett has been described as one of Ireland’s most influential priests of the last 10 years. A former secretary to the Northern Bishops and assistant to Cardinal Seán Brady, Fr Bartlett has represented the Catholic Church in many public arenas – never afraid to stand up for Catholic beliefs. His talk will centre on the ever-changing relationship between Church and State in Ireland.
On Thursday, August 7, Monsignor Raymond Murray will give a personal reflection on victims. He will illustrate his talk with a selection of recitals of his poetry. Monsignor Murray is a former Chaplain to Armagh Women’s Gaol and was more recently to the fore in the campaign to free Marian Price. He has also written widely on the roles of the RUC, the SAS and other state agencies in the six counties.
Both talks start at 7pm and there will be time for questions and answers.
“It is quite a coup for us to attract two such eminent priests to talk in the parish during Féile an Phobail,” said Glen Phillips, St Oliver Plunkett Parish Manager. “Fr Tim Bartlett is well known for taking to the airwaves to defend Catholic teaching, when many prefer to stay silent or fudge the issues.
“Monsignor Raymond Murray has spent over forty years defending the rights of the poor and oppressed in Ireland. He has stood side by side with those that have been shot, killed or imprisoned by state forces.
“The fact that four Catholic priests are speaking at different events during Féile an Phobail shows that a corner has been turned. The Catholic community is once again looking for leadership and wisdom and it is looking to those of our priests who have a track record of credibility.”
For further information call Glen on 90 618180 or email him at glen@stoliver plunkettparish.ie
