“Westminster cannot justifiably continue to try and impose abortion on Northern Ireland. It is clear from the 46:40 vote that this devolved issue should be decided by Northern Ireland’s elected representatives and not the UK parliament” - PLC.
“Many will be struck by the contradiction, that at a time we are all taking such drastic measures to preserve life, legislation is introduced to take it” - Presbyterian Moderator.
"It is important to give very strong consideration to the closure of all schools in the very near future. We need to fight this virus together," said Archbishop Eamon Martin.
Today provides an opportunity for a new start for Northern Ireland’s political institutions and one that can also offer fresh hope, say the leaders of Ireland’s four main Churches.
While we acknowledge that points of difference obviously remain, the goal of restoring devolution remains within reach – Ireland’s church leaders.
Archbishop Eamon Martin urges people and parties of different political perspectives “to progress peace", tackle poverty and homelessness, tackle the pressure on hospitals and schools, and "to promote a culture of life.”
It’s time to get Northern Ireland moving again – DUP leader, Arlene Foster MLA.
Now in its sixth year, the theme this year is ‘Always Be Ready’ from 1 Peter 3:15 – Always be Ready to give an answer for the hope that you possess.
“This was not only an attack on a church, but as a peace-hungry society, this was an attack on all of us.”
“You cannot claim to love your country and at the same time cause pain and destruction to the people who live there.”
“We want to express our continued concern that ... the most vulnerable are at greater risk, while crucial decisions on education, health and welfare are not being taken.”
Bernadette Smyth, director of Precious Life, says Amnesty is “claiming to be a ‘human rights group’ while campaigning for the legalised destruction of unborn children.”
“If you take a look at the top 11 schools they are all faith-based, and I think that says it all” - Sean Rafferty, head of St Louis Grammar in Ballymena in Co Antrim.
Church delegation highlights the need to respect the right of faith-based groups to provide services in accordance with their religious ethos and values.
Attempt to extend abortion law to allow for abortion in the cases of life limiting illnesses and in pregnancies resulting from rape or incest defeated in Stormont Assembly.
Bishop Leahy pays tribute to DUP leader Arlene Foster as an example of how we can deal with the past.
Northern bishops highlight how motion was "completely silent" on the "vital issue" of respect for individual religious conscience and protections for Churches.
