RITE AND REASON:The decade between 1912 and 1922 marked events in Ireland that helped form the DNA of life and relationships on this island.
From the signing of the Ulster Covenant, Proclamation of Independence, Easter Rising and Civil War – they unwittingly shape the psyche of we who share this island. The key question is how will we remember them?
The historian ATQ Stewart describes the past as “a convenient quarry which provides ammunition to use against enemies in the present”. How do we find a way of dealing with such iconic historical events in a way that heals rather than divides?
So why is it worth looking at the events from 1912–1922? Some would say it is better to simply leave well alone. Perhaps we can only take so much “truth” in case fragile relationships begin to unravel?
Each community on this island will remember the decade of Irish history at the beginning of the 20th century differently. Diverse events that deeply touch the memory and passions in one community will not be the same as for the other. The deep unconscious memories in each community helped shape our subsequent life and relationships on this island, at one time suggesting tragedy but latterly hope.
If only commemorating history was as simple as isolating and collating bare facts! Yet, particularly in any situation of conflict, the way in which “facts” are perceived and the values that are bestowed on them can make historical analysis a subjective exercise. We are the story not only that we tell about ourselves but also about others.
That history has been shown to be a potent force in the life of both communities suggests it is worthy of careful examination. Stewart reflects: The Irish are not only capable of forgetting the past, but quite deliberately expunging from their minds whole areas of it. Like other nations they have woven for themselves a garment of myth and legend which they call Irish history. Having designed it themselves, they have taken great care to make it as comfortable as possible.
The story we tell about ourselves as well as “the other” shapes much more than our relationships. It shapes our psyche, self-belief and spirit of enterprise in creating a place for our neighbours and ourselves.
The challenge is to find a healthy process for reflection that has integrity, honesty and humility. It also prevents those very few who would seek to use commemoration as a divisive tool.
As a contribution to this process of remembering a number of events are being planned, over time, by the Church of Ireland. The first of these is a conference, open to all, focusing on the Ulster Solemn League and Covenant of 1912. Entitled Sober Reflections, it will look at the historical detail and context of the covenant and also try to reflect theologically on how it might be addressed by the contemporary Christian conscience. It will take place next Saturday from 9.30am-4.30pm at Moira Parish Centre, Co Down.
Presentations will be given by distinguished contributors including Prof Paul Bew (QUB) and Dr Johnston McMaster. The conference will be chaired by Prof David Hayton of QUB.
Peace is built by dealing with difference of opinion that allows us to maintain the integrity of our position without diminishing the other.
During her Dublin visit, Queen Elizabeth said: “With the benefit of historical hindsight, we can all see things which we would wish had been done differently or not at all.”
These words could be applied to our use of history on this island. This decade is an opportunity to create a new story for our neighbours and ourselves by the way we remember these vital moments in our history.
Earl Storey is consultant to the Church of Ireland Working Group on Historical Commemorations. Those wishing to attend Sober Reflections should email press@topstorey.org or contact the Church of Ireland press office 048 (028 within Northern Ireland) 9082 8880