The moderator of the Dublin-Munster Presbytery, the Rev James Carson, accompanied by Ms Yvonne Deagan represented the church at the preliminary of the launch of the Lord Mayor of Dublin's "Many People - One City" initiative.
The mayor, Senator Joe Doyle, seeks the help of members of all the churches in promoting racial integration and the equality of all people in the city.
Tomorrow, being Palm Sunday, is a day when announcement of the initiative to congregations will raise public awareness. In a leaflet, Many Peoples - One City, intended for the widest possible distribution, it is emphasised that on the approach of the third millennium, Dublin is becoming a city of great diversity of people, each one of whom may make an important and distinctive contribution to its life and culture. The challenge is for all to examine attitudes, recognise diversity and help to promote awareness and openness.
The Lord Mayor's initiative addresses the issue by providing information about housing, health and general welfare in a number of languages; by promotion of racially tolerant, open and integrated communities; and by a policy "to inform and enhance the delivery of services of Dublin Corporation and the Eastern Health Board".
Senator Doyle recalls that Irish emigrants throughout the world have contributed culturally and economically to the communities in which they settled. He believes that the Irish of today should offer the same opportunity and welcome to those seeking asylum here.
The venue was the Presbyterian Church. The Peace and Peacemaking Committee were the organisers. Dr John Dixon, the Moderator of the General Assembly, opened the conference. Participants came from all over the North and included Monsignor Tom Tone, St Peter's Pro-Cathedral, Falls Road, Belfast, Billy Mitchell and Christine McKay, all influentially involved in promoting reconciliation and peace.
The Lucan Family Centre was established recently with the aim of providing a counselling and psychotherapy service in Lucan and the surrounding Liffey Valley area. The centre is sponsored by the Lucan Presbyterian Church and is housed in the church's premises.
The director is Ms Carys Morrow BSc BA MPsychSC. The administrator is Janet Holmes (Reality Therapist). All the counsellors are trained to recognised standards and are duly supervised.
The services of the centre are open to all. There is complete confidentiality. Charges are related to income. Counselling may offer the opportunity to progress in personal growth and discovery of more satisfying ways of living.
Family, individual and couple therapy are all on offer. Appointments may be made by contacting the centre at 2 Hanbury Lane, Lucan, Co Dublin.