Some historical background to the specific Irish context is helpful in elucidating the significance of advances in relationships between both Anglicans and Roman Catholics in the country, north and south, over recent decades. Such progress was underlined by the presence of two bishops, one from each tradition respectively, at the recent meeting of the International Anglican–Roman Catholic Commission for Unity and Mission (IARCCUM) held in both Rome and Canterbury. Before discussing the particular shape of that gathering, we will offer a brief sketch of some key elements of the Irish Christian experience—one in which recourse to physical force and violence has sadly been a recurring theme—to help readers appreciate better the journey in reconciliation and hope that is underway in our country.

Read the rest of this article in One in Christ 57, no. 1 (2024): 113–122.

Niall Coll is the Catholic bishop of Ossory and Adrian Wilkinson is the Church of Ireland bishop of the United Diocese of Cashel, Ferns and Ossory.