Public invited to take part in the Walk of Compassion

By Mary Dennehy

THE community is invited to take part in a Walk of Compassion through Tallaght Village this Good Friday, which recognises the number of caring services in-and-around the village area.

Open to all faiths and none, the Walk of Compassion is taking to the streets in solidarity with those living locally who are going through a tough time while recognising the many, community-led services within the village area that provide support and care.

Millbrook Lawns resident Gerry Bates, who is part of the volunteer organising committee, told The Echo: “The Walk of Compassion will mark Good Friday in a way that is open to all faiths and none, and we hope that members of the community come out in support and in recognition of all of the wonderful caring agencies located in-and-around Tallaght Village.

“Within a short distance there are homeless agencies, suicide prevention, cancer support service, older services provided by Trustus, special needs support, services for children with autism and their families and more.

“Many of these services have been started by the community and are run by volunteers.

“Along the way, the walk will pause outside each of the places that provide supportive services of care and compassion to members of our community”.

Each service is being invited to share reflections, thoughts, art work, a symbol, poem or prayer as the walk pauses outside their location.

Running from 6.30pm to 7.30pm on Good Friday, April 14, the Walk of Compassion will leave the Priory at 6.30pm and travel through Tallaght Village up to Molloy’s car park before turning back up to the High Street, with the final stop being the courtyard of St Maelruain’s Church.

The event is being organised by the cluster of Tallaght parishes and local volunteers behind the Come Walk in my Shoes homeless project last October.

For further information call Gerry Bates on 087 6197633 or Ann Ryan on 087 2064685.