Galway Bay fm newsroom - The Archbishop of Tuam has called for a detailed examination of the Church and general society during the operation of the Tuam Mother and Baby Home.
In a homily delivered at the Cathedral of the Assumption, Dr Michael Neary said the truth should emerge no matter how 'unpalatable' it may be to the institutions involved.
He added that there is an urgent need for an enquiry to examine all aspects of life at the time and broaden the focus from one particular religious congregation.
It's the second weekend in a row that Archbishop Michael Neary has made the discoveries at the Tuam Mother and Baby Home the subject of his homily at the Cathedral of the Assumption.
Speaking to mass-goers last evening, he apologised for the hurt caused by the failings of the church during a time when certain women and children went unloved and unwanted, instead of being cherished.
In addressing reports of high levels of mortality and malnutrition, Archbishop Neary spoke of a 'harsh and unforgiving climate' - where compassion, understanding and mercy were sorely lacking.
He said there is an urgent need for an enquiry to examine all aspects of life at the time and address the roles and relationships between the Church, State, local authorities and general society.
He offered that while such a thorough examination would not excuse what happened in the not too distant past, it would begin the process of attempting to explain what happened.
In closing his homily, Archbishop Neary told those in attendance that today they would pray for the courage to help them face agonising questions from the recent past.
