The Annual Mass for Deceased Members of An Garda Síochána was celebrated by Fr. Paddy Madden at the Holy Family Church, Aughrim Street, Dublin on Thursday 7th November.
Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan, Minister for Justice & Equality Mr. Alan Shatter T.D., Chief Superintendent Alan Todd P.S.N.I. Fr. Joe Kenndy CP (Garda Chaplin), Fr. Ralph Egan CP and Archdeacon David Pierpoint as well as relatives and friends of deceased members attended.
There was a high turnout of both retired and serving members. The Garda Band and Choir added a sombre note to the celebration.
Fr. Madden in his homily referred to the loss and tragic grief inflicted on a family when he spoke about the tragic death of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe earlier this year.
He said “every tragedy has a human face”. He spoke about children missing out on events when they don’t have a mother or father to congratulate them on their achievements or to welcome home in the evening.
Photos by Alan Dowley
