Bishop Fintan Monahan urges safety for young road users this June long weekend
- Bishop Monahan to lead a Blessing of the Roads ceremony at the Cathedral in Ennis
- To date in 2022, 71 people have died on roads in the Republic, an increase of 27 lives lost over 2021
As we look forward to enjoying this June long weekend in the Republic, Bishop Fintan Monahan asks of all road users – and especially young people – to take extra care over these three days.
Bishop Monahan said, “This June long weekend, we can expect hundreds of thousands of people travelling through our airports, attending GAA provincial finals, and the Bloom Festival in Phoenix Park. This will mean a sharp increase in people travelling on our roads. In this context, I am asking all road users, especially young people to take extra care. Everyone shares a responsibility to protect human life.
“Sadly, up to this morning, there have been 71 road fatalities in the Republic. This loss of life is a tragedy for our society and is particularly devastating for the families and loved ones of the deceased. After 6.30pm Mass tomorrow, in the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul in Ennis Co Clare, I will lead a Blessing of the Roads ceremony to pray for the protection of road users. I also 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 road users.”
Bishop Monahan recommends two prayers to help people change their driving behaviour, and to stay safe on roads across the island this bank holiday weekend.
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.
o
For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long +353 (0) 86 1727678 and Lisa Sheridan +353 (0) 83 1999793.