Appreciate the treasure that is St. Patrick Centre

SIR, — Recent articles in the Down Recorder and other Irish papers have outlined the funding crisis at the St. Patrick’s Centre in Downpatrick. I think it important to make the following points that all should remember when considering support for the Centre:

1. It is a living, working education centre that has the principles of peace, unity and cross-cultural connections at its very heart, truly in the spirit of Saint Patrick.

2. It belongs to all of Ireland and all religious and cultural traditions in Ireland. No other entity on this Island can make such a claim. It is a living example of a cross-border, cross-cultural commitment to the peace process. 

3. It authentically interprets Saint Patrick and what we know and understand about him and his message — especially important in a modern age when the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day may be offered up as little more than funny hats, face painting and green beer.  

4. It is a model for education of young people in Ireland and from abroad, so that they might understand the message of peaceful encounter and respectful engagement — the core principles that underscored St. Patrick’s work in Ireland. This has been a major accomplishment of the Centre on a truly international basis and needs to be supported and expanded.  

5. Finally, and very importantly, the Centre is a world resource. If it were not in Downpatrick, it would be in Dublin, or Chicago, or New York. Downpatrick and County Down have the good fortune to see tourists and tour buses coming to them that would never have left the M1 Motorway if it were not for the Centre and the grave of St. Patrick. The County and all of Northern Ireland need to support this resource, along with support generated from Ireland and the rest of the “friends of St. Patrick.” The Ancient Order of Hibernians in the United States has recognised this and made the Centre a regular component of its annual charities campaign.  

This is a time to do more, not less, to appreciate this wonderful treasure in the heart of County Down. I hope your readers will rise up for Downpatrick and for the Centre dedicated to the good saint.  

Yours etc.,

JOHN H. SHANAHAN Jr.,

Drogheda, Co. Lough and

Washington DC, USA.