Large crowds gather in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh to celebrate “Red Wednesday”

On Wednesday evening, St Patrick’s Cathedral was a blaze of red as many people gathered for a special Prayer Service to remember Christian martyrs and those who have died for their faith. During the celebration, those present remembered all who suffered and died for their Christian faith over the years. As part of the Week of Witness, Archbishop Martin spoke with two young people who give great witness to their faith today.

Colleen Gribben is a Maths Teacher in St Catherine’s College, Armagh and Head Camp Coordinator of the Armagh City Micheala Foundation Summer Camp. Colleen is a girl of deep faith and she spoke of how she works to promote faith not only through her involvement with the Micheala Camp but also in her daily work in school.

Gerard Devine is a teacher of Religious Studies in St Patrick’s Grammar School, Armagh, having taught previously in St Edmund’s College, London. He too spoke of how he gives witness to his faith on a daily basis. He’s a man who gives great witness not only in his teaching but through his involvement with Armagh Diocesan Youth Council, School Aid Romania and St Vincent de Paul. Gerard helped to lead a number of youth pilgrimages over the last few years.

After the lovely Prayer Service, Archbishop Martin launched a new book on the life and martyrdom of St Oliver Plunkett. “ Not Force Nor Might” The Gift of the Martyr.