Sunday, November 07, 2010

Priest criticises vandalism at Shannon church

The parish priest of Shannon in County Clare has described as distressing a recent break in at Saint John and Saint Paul's church in the town, which caused extensive damage.  

According to parish priest Fr Tom Ryan the damage inflicted was , “The lowest of the low as they violated the whole place.”

“Doors and windows were broken, the tabernacle was abused, the Blessed Sacrament was stolen, the hosts were scattered, shrines in the church were vandalised, as was sound equipment which is used to broadcast mass to the sick.” 

Fr Ryan said, “The whole episode was very distressing for parishioners.  When I arrived at the church I knew there was something wrong straight away because the lights were on and the locks were broken.”  However Gardaí were on the ball straight away.  “It's a matter for them to deal with now.” 

Fr Ryan also added that he was very touched by the support from the local community.  

“People rallied around and everyone put in an effort so we could have our service on Friday night.  They would be very sad to see what has happened, as they would view it as an attack on their local community.” 

“We will have to review security now, which is an unnecessary expense that we could do without in these harsh economic times.”

SIC: CIN/IE