It is always a pleasure for me to meet groups of pilgrims from Ireland, a nation which has such a long history of devotion to the See of Peter. I am happy to welcome you, the newly-ordained Deacons of the Pontifical Irish College, with your families and friends, and the members of the Irish hierarchy here present.

Dear Deacons, your ministry to God’s people is a gift of Christ himself to the Church. The Risen Christ, who sent forth his disciples to the ends of the earth, sends you too to preach the Good News of salvation in our time. He sends you to bear witness in your lives to the truth and power of the Redemption offered to mankind in the Life, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Your lives must be imbued with the mystery of Christ and his Church. You will be called upon to celebrate in hope the sacraments of faith and to teach the evangelical law of love. In this way you will collaborate in building up the Church, the family of God.

I greet all those accompanying you today, especially the Bishops who have wished to share these happy days with you. In particular, I greet your Rector, Monsignor Hanly, and the staff of the Pontifical Irish College, who have assisted you in your preparation for this moment.

I commend you to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, and I gladly impart my Apostolic Blessing to all of you and to your dear ones at home in Ireland.

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