Probes into ecumenical Mass

ARCHBISHOP OF Armagh, Dr Sean Brady, and his Church of Ireland counterpart, Archbishop Robin Eames, have launched investigations into an Easter Sunday Mass in Co Louth where a Church of Ireland minister concelebrated with priests in a Catholic Church.

In a statement issued last night, Dr Brady said: “True ecumenism is best served by initiatives that are respectful of, and sensitive to, the traditions, ethos and discipline of all those involved. Otherwise there is a real danger of causing widespread confusion, raising false hopes and creating situations that are open to misunderstandings and manipulation.”

Archbishop Eames said he shared Dr Brady’s concerns about the “implications for ecumenical relationships” arising from the concelebration of Holy Communion.

“Unfortunately, such occasions, while well intentioned, can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations at a time when relations between our churches have improved so much,” he said.

The Mass, to mark the 90th anniversary of the 1916 Rising and to honour Irish deaths in World War One, took place at the Augustinian priory in Drogheda. Rev Michael Graham was invited to attend by the former Augustinian prior, Fr Iggy O’Donovan. Fr Richard Goode, the current prior, and Fr Noel Hession also took part in the Mass.

Up to 20 members of the Church of Ireland congregation attended the Mass and received Holy Communion. Rev Graham took part fully in the consecration of the sacrament.

Last night, Fr O’Donovan said he didn’t want to comment on the archbishops’ statements but said that the Mass was a “magnificent occasion”.

“The mass was a response to the Taoiseach’s call to the country to have an inclusive Easter Week. There was no opposition from my congregation.”