Catholic
bishops said they were conscious dramatic economic events led to
exceptional levels of fear, anger and disillusionment but believe blame
and recrimination is futile and distracts from building a more just,
sustainable and prosperous future.
With charities barely meeting
soaring demands for basic needs like accommodation, food, fuel and
clothing, the senior churchmen said it is easy to descend into a culture
of negativity, defeatism and despair.
But the clergy urged people
to show national solidarity and hope, and have renewed confidence to
work together for the good of all.
They said: "The people of
Ireland have always shown resilience when faced with situations of great
challenge in the past. We believe in our ability as a nation to address
the challenges that confront us now.
"One of the strongest
grounds for hope is that Ireland is blessed with people of extraordinary
generosity, good neighbourliness and social concern.
"Knowing
that someone cares, that someone is willing to listen and help can mean
as much to a person or family in financial distress as the help they
receive with material needs. There is no substitute for good
neighbourliness and human friendship.
"We take this opportunity to
appeal for a new mobilisation of good neighbourliness and practical
care for others in our local communities, of people giving generously of
their time and talents as well as their money and goods to tackle
poverty and social exclusion."
The bishops from the north and south of the island spoke out after a one-day meeting in Maynooth.
They
said high levels of unemployment had a demoralising impact on
individuals and communities, with the upheaval of emigration facing many
Irish families.
SIC: BT/UK