At this sad time for all who knew him across Ireland, Europe and
throughout the universal Church, I join with Bishop Alan McGuckian SJ of
Down and Connor, and with Bishop Larry Duffy of his native diocese of
Clogher, in offering my prayers for the happy repose of the soul of
Archbishop Noël, and for the comfort of his brother, sister, extended
family members and close friends at this difficult time. In a special
way I remember the priests, religious and faithful of the dioceses of
Down and Connor, and of Clogher.
In June, I had the privilege of meeting with Archbishop Noël when he
spoke to the Plenary Assembly of the Council of European Bishops’
Conferences which took place in Belgrade, Serbia. He followed closely
in the footsteps and spirit of the founding fathers of closer European
unity, including Venerable Robert Schuman whom he had honoured recently
at Luxeil les Bains in France.
Archbishop Noël served most of his ordained ministry in working to
forge positive relations with partner countries of the European Union
and to help nourish the Christian heart and soul of Europe. At our
meeting in Belgrade, bishops reflected on the future of the Christian
faith in Europe, and Archbishop Noël’s keen intellect, insight and
leadership provided an invaluable contribution to our discussion.
May the light of Heaven shine upon Archbishop Noël; may God in His
loving mercy look kindly upon him, comfort his relatives, friends,
colleagues and former parishioners, and may he receive the welcome of
the good and faithful servant.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilís.