Casey Removal: Public Disquiet in Crypto
Galway Diocese Confirms Removal of Bishop Eamonn Casey’s Remains from Cathedral Crypt
Table of Contents
Galway Diocese has confirmed the removal of the remains of the late Bishop Eamonn Casey from the crypt of Galway Cathedral, following a period of careful consideration and consultation. The decision comes in the wake of public disquiet and a documentary that brought allegations of child sexual abuse against the former bishop into the public domain.
A Sensitive Decision Following Public Scrutiny
The removal of Bishop Casey’s remains marks a significant development after a year of deliberation by the current Bishop of Galway, Michael Duignan. The decision was made with the “assent and cooperation” of members of Bishop Casey’s family, who have requested privacy. His mortal remains have now been entrusted to their care.The presence of Bishop Casey’s remains in the cathedral crypt had become a deeply sensitive issue, particularly after a documentary revealed records of child sexual abuse allegations against him. The documentary also highlighted that the Vatican had requested Bishop casey not to exercise public ministry for the last ten years of his life, a sanction viewed by some as significant for a bishop.
The Importance of cathedral crypt Burials
Traditionally, burials in cathedral crypts symbolise a deceased bishop’s ongoing spiritual presence and connection to their diocese. This practice is deeply rooted in Catholic tradition, with cathedrals serving as the principal churches and seats of authority for a diocese. However,the unique role of a cathedral as a place of unity,healing,and peace was a key consideration in the recent decision.
Public Opinion and Diocesan Response
Following the documentary’s revelations, public sentiment, particularly among older demographics, leaned towards the removal of Bishop Casey’s remains. A poll conducted by the Irish Daily Mail indicated that 60% of people aged 55 and over felt his remains should be removed.
Bishop Michael Duignan, who was born the year after Eamon Casey became bishop of Kerry in 1969, acknowledged the gravity of the situation. in July of the previous year,he expressed his commitment to “working with anybody affected,to help bring truth,healing and peace to such terribly painful situations.” He described the interment of Bishop Casey’s remains as ”a very sensitive issue that deeply affects people in different ways, and which has different facets,” requiring “careful consideration and consultation.”
A Move Towards Healing and Unity
The Galway Diocese’s statement emphasised that “significant consensus emerged around the unique role of a Cathedral as a place of unity rather than division, healing rather than hurt and peace rather than disquiet.” While the exact date of the removal is not public, the diocese confirmed that prayers for the dead were offered. The decision to remove the remains reflects a broader effort to address the pain caused by past allegations and to foster a more unified and healing surroundings within the diocese. The current Bishop of Galway is not speaking publicly about the decision.