Some of those who come to Ireland have escaped from very dangerous situations, including religious persecution. On top of the trauma of losing their homes, jobs and often their families, they now face the challenge of being strangers in Ireland – Bishop Leahy.

International reports on religious freedom confirm time and again that Christians are the most persecuted group, says ACN.

“For the sake of the most vulnerable in our society, for the sake of the victims of our past, for the sake of children in our schools and for the sake of people who need improved health and social care services, now is the time to find a resolution to the political impasse.”

The west African nation has a history of religious tolerance, but there has been a spate of anti-Christian attacks this year.

"Men and women of violence betray the deep desire of humanity the world over for a future of peace."

“May the merciful God gather to himself all who have died while at their Friday prayers and console those who have been hurt. I ask that they be remembered in our churches this weekend.”

Being a Christian always involves giving a critique of power, says Cardinal Vincent Nichols.

With Christianity on the verge of extinction in its birthplace, it is time for concerted action that begins to turn the tide, says British Foreign Secretary, Jeremy Hunt.

“No march that ends with such scenes should be allowed on that route in future.” – Mike Russell, Scottish National Party

“Together across our community we might come together, each of us and all of us, from all sectors including the churches and acknowledge our part in the hurt, the grief and the pain of the past 48 plus years.”

In many places in the Middle East multi-religious communities were the norm, but increasingly they are becoming mono-religious environments.

"We intensify our plea for mutual understanding and a just and lasting peace for this land which has known too much conflict, too much pain and division," Archbishop Eamon Martin tells Bethlehem's mayor.

Party urged to make addressing child poverty and the widening gap between rich and poor the first priority of the programme of Government in the next Assembly.

Across our community, our churches and our conflict Fr Gerry Reynolds CSsR forged new relationships so that old differences could be resolved.