The Church Of Ireland
Press Release

No one doubts the problems facing politicians and governments this Easter as they seek answers to seemingly impossible questions in the peace process.  No matter what our individual views on political issues may be at this time all who are engaged in political discussions deserve the prayerful support of those who yearn for a peaceful and stable society in Northern Ireland.

Time is no longer a luxury in the search for that stability. The longer solutions are delayed the greater are the opportunities for those with undemocratic agendas to exert influence on our lives.

Let no one forget that we are not seeking just an end to the uncertainties and violence of the past 30 years: we are seeking answers to the problems of many generations.  The task in immense - but no effort should be too great to produce those answers.

Beneath and beyond the current issues in the political sphere the people of Northern Ireland need to feel a new sense of direction and vision.  That feeling must not be confined to matters political alone.  We need to realise that politics is only a part of the process to produce lasting peace.  It is a vital part - but only a part.  It is in the attitudes and reactions of ordinary people going about their ordinary lives that the atmosphere of progress must be found.  Reconciliation cannot come about as the result of legislation or political decree.  Reconciliation cannot be imposed.  Reconciliation and understanding will only come when people see it as a priority for their lives.  In that process everyone of us has a role to play.

In the Christian message of Easter we find the encouragement to go on and on seeking the peace we deserve - a peace which will contain justice for each section of this community ....