BISHOP LEAHY URGES LENTEN SACRIFICE IN SUPPORT OF THOSE GRIPPED BY ADDICTION

The Bishop of Limerick, Dr Brendan Leahy, has said Lent should be a time for the people of Limerick to reach out to those whose lives are being devastated by addiction.

Launching his Lenten message, Bishop Leahy urged people to make a sacrifice this Lent in support of people who are gripped by alcohol, drugs, gambling or pornography addictions.  “Far too many people’s lives in Limerick, like every other part of this country, are today devastated by slavery to the likes of alcohol, drugs, gambling and pornography.  While we must have compassion for people involved and recognise that much can stem from difficult personal circumstances and disadvantage, it is important nevertheless to name these issues and tackle them,” said Bishop Leahy. “Lent is an opportunity for the people in thrall to addictions to try to break them and it is also an opportunity for those close to them to make a sacrifice in solidarity with them.”  

Bishop Leahy said that in his own Lenten message, Pope Francis addresses the destitution that is affecting society generally today.   “Pope Francis recognises that many are plunged into this destitution by unjust social conditions, by unemployment, which takes away their dignity as breadwinners, and by lack of equal access to education and health care. These are all issues that apply locally in Limerick and we must break down barriers to ensure there is change.”