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FAITH matters
DEFINING DECADE: Edward Carson, with James Craig to his left, signs the Ulster Covenant at Belfast City Hall in 1912 in protest against Home Rule. Right, the 1916 Proclamation of Independence
HE years between 1912 and 1922 saw events in Ireland that are deeply embedded in our memory. From the signing of the Ulster Covenant, the Proclamation of Independence, the Easter Rising and the civil war all of these events have shaped this island and the psyche of all of us who live on it. As we enter a decade of commemoration the key question is how will we remember them? In a time when the consuming thoughts for most people are the effects of recession and the unfolding peace process in Northern Ireland, does it matter how or why we remember the events of a decade 100 years ago? More crucially, each part of our community will remember the decade of Irish history at the beginning of the 20th century in different ways. The events that deeply touch the memory and passions in one community will not be the same as for the other. So why is it worth looking at the events from 1912 to 1922? Some would say it is better to simply leave well alone. Is it the case that we can only take so much truth in case fragile relationships begin to unravel? There are many compelling reasons for reflecting carefully on this decade. The events
What we are discovering is that peace is built by finding a way of disagreeing and dealing with difference of opinion that allows us to maintain the integrity of our position without diminishing the person with whom we disagree
Covenant and of how modern Christians might engage positively with it. The conference will be chaired by Prof David Hayton of QUB. In all probability there may not be a shared understanding of the crucial historical events that have shaped life on this island. What we are discovering is that peace is built by finding a way of disagreeing and dealing with difference of opinion that allows us to maintain the integrity of our position without diminishing the person with whom we disagree. Maintaining and showing respect does not mean avoiding the issue. We are easily tempted to the guiding principle of Whatever you say, say nothing. A step beyond this is to give the appearance of saying something but in reality saying very little. Neither is helpful to thinking through important issues. Open and honest discussion is the way forward. This decade is not a threat but an opportunity to create a new story for our neighbours and ourselves by the way we handle these vital moments in our history. If you wish to attend Sober Reflections email press@ top storey.org or contact the Church of Ireland press office on 028 9082 8880.