Archbishops Martin and McDowell call for peace amid Drumcree crisis

Archbishop Eamon Martin of the Catholic Church and Archbishop John McDowell of the Church of Ireland have issued a joint call for peace following the ongoing crisis at Drumcree. In a recorded video, the two leaders jointly recite the ‘Prayer for Peace of Saint Francis of Assisi,’ inviting people across the island of Ireland and beyond to participate in prayer.

In a joint statement, the archbishops acknowledged the presence of sincere views and painful histories at stake. They urged the community to build on existing efforts to foster mutual trust between different traditions and emphasized the importance of respecting the rule of law and utilizing peaceful, democratic processes.

The leaders cautioned against language that inflames division and called for an urgent, inclusive, and reconciling initiative to navigate the current fragility. They also acknowledged their own failings while expressing deep concern for the community and the need to build the common good.