Parishes should offer to ‘adopt’ refugee individuals and families

Dear Editor, I grew up hearing the name Paddy Ruschitzko. I never knew then that he was the son of a Polish father and an Irish mother. I also remember hearing that he captained the Laois team that beat Kilkenny in the 1949 Leinster final, playing left half-back where he marked the legendary Jimmy Langton.

Traditionally, we have been known as the land of the Céad Míle Fáilte. And rightly so as it has been proved again and again that as a people we can be exceptionally hospitable and generous.

These are exceptional times when the bounds of our generosity are being severely tested. Let us not be found wanting. Could I make one suggestion that could be given at least a sporting chance? There are 26 dioceses in Ireland and about 1,300 parishes. If each parish were to “adopt” an individual, a couple or a family that would mean that over the next year or so we could accommodate, absorb, and care for about 5,000 people who currently find themselves without a place to call their home. The details of the nitty-gritty could be teased out at local level with some guidance and support from both Government and diocesan personnel.

I think if we could embark on such a programme it would be a wonderful opportunity for local faith communities to renew themselves and to give flesh to the social gospel and in particular Matthew 25:35 “I was a stranger and you received me in your homes”. And, who knows, perhaps we will also be planting the seeds in the not-too-distant future that will produce another Paddy Ruschitzko who will put an end to Kilkenny’s relentless march!

Yours etc.,

Kevin McEvoy FSC,

Rosenallis,

Co. Laois.