Archbishop Eamon Martin calls for ‘reconciling initiative’ to resolve Drumcree dispute

“As our community faces the crisis in Drumcree today, in which so many sincere views, painful histories and important issues are at stake, we cannot think of any time in the last thirty years when this simple message needs to be more urgently heard.

"How can we be good neighbours to each other? What can we do to patiently, constructively and positively build on all the sincere and generous efforts over recent years to foster mutual trust and understanding among our different traditions?” the church leaders asked in a joint statement.

The senior clergy issued the statement on Sunday amid a tense stand-off at the Garvaghy Road, which was blocked by residents to prevent an unwanted Orange Order parade passing through the predominantly nationalist area of Portadown.

Orange Order members remained at Drumcree on Monday morning as efforts continued to find a resolution to the dispute.

In their joint statement Archbishops Martin and McDowell said: “Respect for the rule of law, and use of peaceful and democratic processes are vital to a stable and democratic society, even when they are difficult and challenging.

"As Christians, we are also called to ask ourselves what is generous, what is neighbourly, what builds up peace and the common good among us? As disciples of Jesus, our golden rule calls us to turn the other cheek, to go the extra mile and ultimately, to ensure that love of God and neighbour is the core value that determines all our actions and decisions. “As Church leaders, we are profoundly aware of our own failings and inadequacies. Imperfect as we may be, we feel deeply the concerns of the people of Drumcree and the wider community that we serve.

"We are willing to do all that we are asked to guide the feet of all, in the name, and after the example of Jesus, on the way of peace, and the building up of a better future for all. We call for the urgent creation of a constructive, inclusive and reconciling initiative to patiently find a way through this current crisis. Too much is at stake.”