ROME, NOV. 26, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Cardinal Sean Brady says wearing the red hat is not so much a personal honor as a sign of the esteem the Successor of Peter has for the people of Ireland and their dedication to faith, family and fair play.
Cardinal Brady, archbishop of Armagh, said this Saturday in Rome on the occasion of his elevation as cardinal.
"Today has been a very joyful day -- a day of many graces and much happiness," said Cardinal Brady. "I am very honored and humbled that Pope Benedict XVI has created me a cardinal. I hope that people in Ireland will see in it an expression of our Holy Father's particular regard and affection for them and for the Church in Ireland."
The 68-year-old prelate expressed his gratitude for the prayers and congratulations that, he said, "literally come from thousands of people who are glad for the Church and for Ireland itself, at this joyful event." The cardinal made special mention of the well-wishes from government officials, including Ireland's President Mary McAleese.
"I take this opportunity to ask people to pray that the peace process in Northern Ireland will continue to be a source of pride and joy and inspiration to peace-makers across the world," Cardinal Brady added.
Fidelity
The cardinal said that recent years have been difficult, "at times traumatic," for the Church in Ireland.
"Yet," he said, "in the midst of these challenges, the overwhelming majority of priests and religious have continued to serve their people, in humble patience, with quiet devotion and outstanding generosity."
"That is why I believe that today is, in some sense, about them," explained the archbishop of Armagh. "It is about the quiet acts of kindness, the supportive, prayerful presence in times of tragedy and disaster, the efforts to build community, and to bring dignity, comfort and hope to those in need.
Cardinal Brady continued: "Being created a cardinal is about strengthening the bonds of affection and unity between the See of Peter and the Church in Ireland. I have therefore no hesitation in saying to the lay faithful of Ireland today: Take heart! Today is recognition of your goodness and of your fidelity.
"Becoming a cardinal is not just an honor, it is also a responsibility. It implies a willingness to help the Pope to carry out the tasks entrusted to him of feeding the flock, strengthening them in their faith, leading back the stray and guiding them safely into the banquet of eternal life."
"I believe," the new cardinal concluded, "that the Holy Father wants us all to help him to proclaim the good news that God is love."
ZE07112602 - 2007-11-26