The JOY BELLS AGAINST RACISM event to be held in Waterford Cathedral on March 19th at 11 a.m.
is resonating far afield.
News is that churches of all denominations at home and abroad are expressing interest in ringing their bells at the same time on the same day in solidarity against racism.
Two RTE Radio 1 interviews to this event will take place this weekend:
LEAP OF FAITH – Friday, 10th February at 10.00 p.m. – Very Reverend Maria Jansson interviewed by presenter Michael Comyn.
MARIAN FINUCANE SHOW – Saturday, 11th February at 12 noon – Mary McAleese, former President of Ireland, who will launch the event, will be interviewed by Marian about the message of ‘Joy Bells’.
See detail below:
On March 19th Dr. Mary McAleese will preach in Christ Church Cathedral Waterford at 10am and launch the ‘Joy Bells’ of Waterford following the service at 11am
A couple of years ago a well organised fascist demonstration was set up in the area surrounding Vasteras cathedral in Sweden. As the rally began, with swastikas and hate filled speeches, the doors of the cathedral closed and the cathedral bells tolled loud and clear over the city, drowning out the sounds of hate and racism.
It is time for the Christian message of love to raise its voice in protest and make a call to solidarity… in that there is joy, justice and hope for the future. At a time when there is worldwide fear and disquiet, we will use this opportunity to peal a very different message, inviting communities at home and abroad to ring their bells on that day in protest and in hope.
The invitation to toll the bells begins today
and one of the means used is Avaaz
Bells sound alarm but also a gathering of people for good.
Ring out misogyny, hate, xenophobia and fear.
Ring in solidarity, truth and justice.
Drown the sounds of hate with the call for justice.
Make a loud noise that those who are made invisible by hate will hear our solidarity.
This invitation is extended to all to raise a different voice in our world
Very Reverend Maria Jansson
Dean of Waterford