Sir, - The extraordinary response to Bishop Walsh's pilgrimage of reconciliation is most welcome and uplifting. This man exudes humility, simplicity and sincerity and his appointment as Bishop of Killaloe, although a surprise to many at the time, has shown that the Hierarchy of the Church did its homework very thoroughly and astutely in this instance. At a time when clerical scandals were beginning to surface daily here in Ireland, it would indeed have been catastrophic for us all if an unsuitable alternative to Bishop Walsh had been chosen.
The recent pilgrimage by this great man is a welcome step in the right direction as the Catholic Church strives to meaningfully reshape its message to those of all religious persuasions. It should serve as an example to the remainder of the clergy in our land, especially those few members who monotonously strive to grab the headlines with their anti establishment rantings, and who would serve the image of their Church in a more beneficial manner by reverting to the humble pastoral duties for which they were ordained. - Yours, etc.,
Brendan Murray, The Orchard, Castletroy, Limerick.