Religion must unite not divide.” Those were the words of Bishop of Limerick Brendan Leahy as he was appointed to the key Vatican department for Interreligious Dialogue.
The 47th bishop of Limerick was appointed a member of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, dedicated to fostering meaningful relations between the Catholic Church and other world religions.
Bishop Leahy will continue his role in Limerick while attending the Dicastery – one of the most strategically important bodies in the Vatican.
The Discastery’s aims to encourage mutual understanding and respect between Catholics and followers of other religions; promote collaboration in shared value, like human dignity, peace, and justice; and address religious tensions and work toward peaceful coexistence.
Expressing his delight over the appointment, Bishop Leahy said that Pope Leo, from the very beginning of his pontification, has called for “a time for dialogue and building bridges”.
He added that, given the increase in the number of other religions in Ireland in recent decades, each needs to be open and welcoming to others.
“This has brought greater diversity to our island and has enriched us. We need to open ourselves to become neighbours to one another,” Bishop Leahy said.
The Bishop concluded that “with so many dark clouds in our world today, it is important to recognise that religions are part of the solution. So often religions are blamed for divisions, but the reality is that religions promote values and practices that are positive contributions to community-building and harmony.”
