Click here for Letter from Pope Francis XIV

Unprovoked attacks on members of the Indian community in Dublin
Statement of Archbishop Dermot Farrell

August 11, 2025

Recent attacks on members of the Indian community in Dublin have been truly shocking. These unprovoked attacks on people, including a child, who were apparently targeted solely because of their ethnic identity have generated understandable fear and alarm among the Indian community.

The truth is that the Indian community in Dublin comprises many people who have come to Dublin to make an important and valued contribution to our society. We are all familiar with the vital presence of Indian professionals in our healthcare system, without whom many healthcare needs simply could not be met. Others apply their skills in other important sectors of the economy and also contribute to funding public services through their taxes.

It is not only through their work lives that our Indian neighbours and fellow citizens are enriching our society. The diversity of Indian culture and traditions add to the vitality of life in Dublin. In particular, many Indian families are playing an increasingly prominent role in the parishes and school communities of the Archdiocese of Dublin. Indian priests, religious and lay volunteers are an increasingly important presence in the pastoral life of the Church in Dublin. That gives the lie to the vile and blasphemous claims of some who spread the poison of racial hatred on social media and otherwise that their views are somehow protecting Christianity.

It is time to call out those who peddle racial hatred. It is time to stand up to those who seek to divide our community through rumour and malice. Our parishes and school communities have already given a warm welcome to Indian families who have made their homes here. I urge them to strengthen that spirit of solidarity, not only with Indian members of parish communities, but with all our Indian neighbours. I call on everyone to support the Gardaí in every way to confront and defeat those whose actions have contributed to the fear now being experienced in the Indian community in Dublin.

Dermot Farrell
Archbishop of Dublin

Click here for a letter from Archbishop Farrell on this matter sent to all parishes on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 (PDF)

Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

We joyfully invite you to join us in celebrating this beautiful feast day on Friday, August 15th
10:00 am Mass — in both St Monica’s Church, Edenmore and St Benedict’s Church, Grange Park

Let us come together to honour Our Lady and celebrate her Assumption into Heaven. All are most welcome!

Come and join other young adults (18–35) for an evening of faith, fellowship, and fun, hosted by local youth leaders of the Howth Deanery and the Office for Mission and Ministry. Taking place on Friday, 13 June, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Portmarnock Parish (D13WK33), the evening will feature music and fun activities, opportunities to chat and connect, inspiring workshops, and a time of prayer. Entrance is free, but if you can, please bring a non-perishable food item, which will be donated to people in need in the area.

Come and meet others, deepen your faith, and experience the joy of celebrating together! Register your interest here: https://forms.office.com/e/FfqcLsfPD6. For more information contact: teresa.menendez@dublindiocese.ie or WhatsApp 086 813 1820.