Irish bishops' statement on America and Afghanistan

Following a General Meeting in Maynooth this week, the Irish Bishops' Conference issued the following statement: The tragedy in the United States on September 11th has shocked us all. The Irish people have expressed their grief for the victims in many ways, particularly on the National Day of Mourning. The attacks in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania were an attack on all humanity. The number of people killed or injured, including many Irish and Irish Americans, has brought home to us once again the reality of terrorism in the modern world. Our thoughts and prayers remain firmly with all the bereaved and injured, and with the American people and their leaders as they deal with the aftermath of this tragedy. We are concerned also for other innocent people who are suffering in the wake of this tragedy. Countless Afghan people are fleeing their homes and country and facing a most uncertain future. Here at home we ask the faithful to show solidarity with them by continuing their generous support of Trocaires work as it responds on our behalf to the needs of the suffering people of Afghanistan. In addition, we particularly call on Catholics to show concern and respect for Muslims living in Ireland. We also call on our people to pray for all those who are working to eradicate terrorism from the world. Particular responsibility rests with the government of the United States, with world leaders and with the Irish government as it assumes the chair of the United Nations Security Council. They are especially deserving of our prayers so that they may, in the words of Pope John Paul II in Kazakhstan this week, build a world without violence, a world that loves life and grows in justice and solidarity.