On this day in 1979, Pope John Paul II arrived in Ireland...
I was just ten years old when Pope John Paul II came to Ireland...
I remember the 'Alarm Car' waking the neighbourhood up to be in time to join the Parish procession to the Phoenix Park. My mam had our tomato sandwiches and collapsible stools for the Mass. We were shown to the corrals and waited to see the Aer Lingus Boeing 747 EI ASJ as it routed up the River Liffey.
I remember myself and my brother Kevin wearing our Snorkel Jackets sprayed with wasp killer to keep the autumnal bees and wasps away. I remember the cheers of the more than a million people as the Holy Father arrived to begin Mass. "Like St. Patrick, I too have heard the voice of the Irish calling to me..."
I remember shouting to the Pope in the Pope Mobile as he wound his way through the cheering crowds after Mass.
I recall standing on Thomas Street in the heart of Dublin's Liberties with my mam, my brother and my aunt as the Pope Mobile passed by and the Pope wearing what looked like a big red sombrero...
That was 36 years ago...
I'd love if Pope Francis would come to Ireland. It's time...
