Heavens above: How Dublin Airport’s chaplain helps grieving families and fearful flyers

Dublin Airport’s chaplain, Fr Justin Obijuru, offers solace to grieving families and anxious travelers, continuing a tradition of compassion

Fr Justin Obijuru at the Church of Our Lady Queen of Heaven in Dublin Airport where he is the new chaplain. Picture: Moya Nolan

While Dublin Airport often plays host to joyous reunions or marks the start of a young person's quest for life and adventure overseas, it has also witnessed some heartbreaking scenes such as parents awaiting the arrival of their son or daughter's coffin.

It’s a painful reality facing grieving families at airports the world over as they await for what will be their child's final journey. In this most difficult of times, words of comfort and support can be a godsend — and are often delivered by the airport's chaplain.