Sir, - Recently my wife and I had to extend our holiday in Ireland due to the tragic events that occurred in our homeland. We were overwhelmed by the compassion, concern, and love showed us by the citizens of the Republic of Ireland. The national day of mourning that your government called on September 14th just amazed us, as we saw businesses, banks, and schools closed because of what happened in America.
We attended an ecumenical service in Ennis, and were deeply touched by the attendance and by the prayers for the victims and their families. I have told many people, including the congregation that I serve, that if one has to be stranded in a foreign country, Ireland is one of the best places.
God bless the Republic of Ireland. - Yours, etc.,
Rev George Kacena, Executive Pastor, Church of the Great Shepherd, Wheaton, Illinois, USA.