Dublin Airport, a central hub in Ireland, has made a significant departure from tradition by discontinuing the practice of having Catholic priests bless planes, aligning with government policies aimed at fostering secularism. This long-standing custom, a part of the airport’s Christmas tradition for over 75 years, has now been halted.
In a country where 69% of the population identifies as Catholic, this move marks a notable shift. Previously, on Christmas Day, Catholic priests would bless planes individually, but due to overcrowding, public blessings were later conducted from the airfield. However, this practice has now been abandoned, citing logistical challenges.
Father Desmond Des Doyle, the chaplain of Our Lady Queen of Heaven at the Airport Church, has overseen these blessings in recent years. However, with the airport’s expansion and increased passenger traffic – which reached 30.2 million in 2022, a staggering 250% rise from the previous year – accommodating individual blessings has become impractical.
Moreover, the airport’s efforts towards inclusivity extend beyond religious boundaries. A multi-prayer room, including facilities for Muslims, has been established in Terminal 2, reflecting a broader commitment to catering to diverse religious needs.
The decision to end the Catholic blessing tradition aligns with the government’s aim to transition Ireland into a secular state, prioritizing equal treatment for people of all faiths. This move has garnered support from various political parties, including the ruling Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil Green, as well as the opposition Labor Party and Sinn Fein. As Ireland continues to evolve, its airports reflect these societal shifts towards inclusivity and secularism.