Wherever you find the vulnerable or the marginalised or those who society finds it convenient to ignore, you will find women and men religious sharing their lives, fighting for their rights and standing up for their God-given dignity.
Theologians have observed that it is the Gospel-mandated responsibility of the Church to speak the truth to those in authority. Irish society is amply peppered with courageous priests and religious who have been unwilling to remain silent in the midst of injustice. Whether that be the injustice of disadvantaged communities failed by State policy, or the young people left with no one to turn to, priests and religious have been to the forefront of the Church's outreach. While they too share the sense of shame and betrayal, the failings of some of the co-religious does not diminish this heroic witness.
The current economic downturn has created new vulnerabilities. Families who could once comfortably afford a mortgage and a decent standard of living find themselves struggling to meet basic necessities. Bank customers who have endeavoured to be faithful in repaying their small loans find themselves harassed while those who owe billions evidently walk without compunction.
It is in this context that the call of the major Christian churches in Northern Ireland for banks to adopt a more understanding approach is heartening.
That call has now been echoed south of the border by such courageous and credible voices as Fr Peter McVerry and Sr Stanislaus Kennedy who have been to the forefront of standing in solidarity with the marginalised both during and before the economic collapse.
These are very difficult times on small businesses, their employees and their families. While multi-nationals play a vital role in supporting economic growth, small businesses employ and give life to communities in every parish in the country. While large international firms drift towards countries with the most-competitive taxation policies, small and medium sized business owners continue to stand with their own communities and parishes.
Needless financial pressures are being placed on solid businesses as a result of rising interest rates, the withdrawal of overdrafts and what the Church leaders say is discrimination against areas such as construction.
It is right that the Church is speaking out on this issue. This is an issue that directly affects families, communities and the common good. It is a sign too, that, despite recent difficulties, the Church still has a vital and prophetic voice that must be used for the good of all.
Listening process
The Diocese of Ossory has been engaging on a widespread 'listening process' over recent weeks. That process has resulted in a draft consultation (see page 3). Listening, in the Christian context, is a key part of discernment and is to be welcomed as a concrete example of the Church's communion. Listening is about asking for God's guidance and leadership even when that discernment leads us to difficult choices. As Pope Benedict observed upon his election in 2005: ''My real programme of governance is not to do my own will, not to pursue my own ideas, but to listen, together with the whole Church, to the word and the will of the Lord, to be guided by Him, so that He himself will lead the Church at this hour of our history.'' It is to be hoped that other dioceses will follow Ossory's lead.
