Parish Priest Father Richard O’Halloran has commended the “bravery and courageousness” of parishioners following yesterday’s assault at Holy Cross Church, Tramore.

A 36-year-old man has appeared before Waterford District Court charged in connection with the stabbing of a woman in her 50s as she attended the church yesterday morning.

Niall Cummins from the Willows, Clarinwood in Tramore appeared briefly before Judge John Cheatle, who heard from Sergeant Robert Flynn that he had made no reply following his arrest and caution yesterday morning.

The 10am Mass took place as normal at Holy Cross Church this morning.

Speaking earlier, Father O’Halloran said: “As many witnessed, and has been widely reported, a most unexpected and frightening incident occurred in our Church yesterday. First and foremost, our thoughts, prayers and best wishes are with our friend Mary and her family, praying for her recovery in everyway. But we think of all who have been affected by what has happened.

I commend and say how proud I am of the bravery and courageousness of everyone in our Church who responded, and responded quickly to what happened. Your presence of mind, quick thinking, and care and assistance to Mary made all the difference.”

He continued: “I want to thank too the prompt response of An Garda Siochana and the National Ambulance Service who came to the assistance of us all, most especially Mary. They will always have our gratitude and support. In supporting the Garda investigation, I would ask that no one speculate about the event yesterday and that we leave the investigation to our Garda. But if anyone does have information or video footage that might be of interest to them, please speak with them.

“Friends, the peace, safety and sanctity which we have always felt and should always feel in our Church was disturbed yesterday. However, even in that moment – the fruit of faith, and who you are as people shined all the brighter. It shone in your fortitude and that of all who came to help us. It was a testament to Faith, Hope, and Love in action. God’s grace was mighty in everyone.

Today is the Feast of Mary Magdalene. In our Gospel, she stands outside the tomb crying, blinded by her grief. Yet, it was precisely in her darkest hour that the Risen Lord appeared, calling her by name, and turned her sorrow into hope. Just as for Mary Magdalene then, so now for us. Jesus is with us. He sees our tears, He knows our fears, and He speaks peace to our hearts.

Let us begin to renew our faith and hope, trusting that the Lord who overcame dreadful events in His life will heal Mary and our Parish, restore our peace, and guide us forward in love.”