Archbishop Eamon Martin, Primate of All Ireland.
The newly-appointed Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland has made an impassioned plea for politicians here to make “the talks work this time.”
Derry-born Archbishop Eamon Martin was speaking at Mass for the Universal Intentions of Pope Francis for World Peace celebrated last night St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh.
Archbishop Martin said: “I appeal strongly to our political leaders on behalf of so many people to make the talks work this time.
“I am confident that many of us in the Churches and civic society stand ready to play our part in making their agreements work on the ground.”
He added: “I would like to pray this evening for our own political representatives as they begin a new round of talks as part of our continuing peace process.
“It will take courageous and creative leadership on their parts to move things forward, a leadership that has enough self-belief and commitment to the greater good to look beyond the next election or purely party-political interests.
“If we just keep on digging trenches for ourselves then there is a real risk that confidence in the ability of politics to resolve problems will be undermined.
“That is why I ask and pray that our politicians will have open minds and generous hearts during these talks, together with steady nerves and prudent speech.
“I appeal strongly to them on behalf of so many people to make the talks work this time.
“I am confident that many of us in the Churches and civic society stand ready to play our part in making their agreements work on the ground.”
Archbishop Martin concluded: “I offer this prayer for all who are involved in the talks. It was written on 8 June by Pope Francis for peace throughout the world:
“Lord God of peace, hear our prayer!
We have tried so many times and over so many years to resolve our conflicts by our own powers and by the force of our arms.
But our efforts have been in vain. Now, Lord, come to our aid!
Grant us peace, teach us peace; guide our steps in the way of peace.
Instil in our hearts the courage to take concrete steps to achieve peace.
Amen”
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