Ashling Murphy’s death a dark moment for all.
Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly speaking during his homily at the Cathedral of the Assumption in Thurles on Sunday 16th January extended his sympathy to the family of the late Ashling Murphy on his own behalf and on behalf of the priests and people of the Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly.
He said that on reading the second reading in today’s liturgy of the Word, from St. Paul’s Letter to the Corinthians, where mention is made of the gifts that each one of us has for the benefit of the community reminded him of Ashling’s gifts and talents as a young teacher, sportswoman and musician.
Her loss is indeed great to her family, her school and wider community.
To honour the short life of Ashling and to ensure that she did not die in vain we must ensure that this tragic event marks a new beginning for how women are respected and valued in society. The event of her death calls on all of us to look within and seriously examine our attitudes and opinions.
He went on to say that Pope Francis on 1st January of this year had said;
“How much violence is directed against women! Enough! To hurt a woman is to insult God, who from a woman took on our humanity,”
In the light of this terrible killing and continued reports of the harassment of women it is imperative that we hear clearly the words of Pope Francis. He called on all to work to build a fairer and just world where violence and abuse of any form against women is not acceptable or tolerated.
He asked for prayers for all family and friends of Ashling who are grieving at this time. May her gentle soul rest in Peace.
