Press Release – Feast of Saints Charles Lwanga and Companions, Friday 4 June 2021 – Immediate
Attn: Newsdesks, Photodesks and Religious Affairs Correspondents
Bishop Fintan Monahan prays for safety on our roads this June holiday weekend
- ‘Blessing of the Roads’ ceremony to take place in Saint Joseph’s Church, Ennis
As we look forward to the June holiday weekend, Bishop Fintan Monahan, asks all road users to take particular care over the next three days.
Bishop Monahan said, “Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic 15 months ago, we have gained a common understanding of the vulnerability of human life like never before. We have a shared responsibility to protect human life in every context. Concerning road safety, there have been 46 road fatalities in the State up to today. This loss of human life is a tragedy for our society and is particularly devastating for the families and loved ones of those involved. I invite parishes across the diocese to pray for those who have lost their lives in tragic circumstances so far this year, and also to pray for the safety of all road users this long weekend.”
Bishop Monahan continued, “Following 7.00pm Mass this Saturday, in Saint Joseph’s Church, Ennis, I will lead a ‘Blessing of the Roads’ ceremony to pray for the protection of motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.”
Bishop Monahan recommends the following dedicated prayers for motorists which can be said before driving:
17th century paidir as Gaeilge
In ainm an Athar le bua,
In ainm an Mhic a d’fhulaing an phian,
In ainm an Spiorad Naoimh le neart,
Muire is a Mac linn inár dtriall. Áiméan!
A contemporary prayer in the English language
Holy Mother, hear our prayer,
Keep us in your loving care,
Whatever the perils of the way,
Let us not add to them this day.
So to our caution and attention,
We add a prayer for your protection,
To beg God’s blessing on this car,
To travel safely near and far.
Amen.
ENDS
- Bishop Fintan Monahan is Bishop of Killaloe.
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