Moyross monks consider prayerful protest if Munster match goes ahead on Good FridayLimerick-Leader Published Date: 12 March 2010 By Luke Holmes
A RELIGIOUS order in Limerick is considering having a "prayerful witness" outside Thomond Park this Good Friday if the match between Munster and Leinster goes ahead as scheduled.
The monks in Moyross confirmed this Thursday they are considering having a prayer session outside the ground on the day.
"We have not decided on any real plans. We always do prayers on Good Friday, but this year we are considering doing them outside Thomond Park," said Brother Shawn O'Connor.
Local man Patrick McCarthy, who previously ran in the city elections says he is planning to bring a crucifix up to Thomond Park on the day of the match to highlight that "Ireland is becoming a pagan country".
He has also hinted that the Franciscan Friars will be involved in the 'protest' though "plans have not been fully confirmed yet".
"When people are sick in hospital they will pray to the Lord above and not some sports players," says Mr McCarthy.
"A lot of people feel very strongly about this and believe that sports should not be put before religion. If people are attending the match and they are all themselves Christians, then I will be telling them that they are nothing but hypocrites."added Mr McCarthy.
Last week the Franciscan Friars warned rugby fans they would be "compromising their faith" by watching Munster v Leinster on Good Friday.
"If they consider themselves a Catholic they should think very deeply about what they're going to do. It's indicative of who you put your trust in. They should step back and really consider what they believe," he added.
"This is proof that religion has been put aside and we have really lost something; it's really tragic." says Brother O'Connor.
Mr McCarthy also added that if pubs do indeed open on Good Friday that he will protest outside some Limerick City pubs also.
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