Family of John Hume urge people to light candles for peace tonight

In a statement issued by Mr Hume’s relatives, they thanked everyone for the flood of tributes that have been paid since his passing early on Monday.

“John loved the people of Derry and Donegal. The heartfelt and sincere condolences that we have received from people across the island, but particularly from the communities John loved being a part of, have been immensely comforting to us.

“John will leave Moville at 7.30pm and return to St Eugene’s Cathedral after 8.30pm.

“We know that he would have prioritised public health and the safety and health of our communities. We’re asking people to follow that guidance, please do not put yourself or others at risk. Instead we would ask that people light a candle for peace at 9pm in their homes or at their door.”

Father Paul Farren, Administrator of the Cathedral of Saint Eugene in Derry, yesterday met with the Hume family in preparation for Wednesday`s Funeral Mass for John Hume.

Father Farren said: “Pat and her family are very grateful for the outpouring of love and support following the death of their beloved John. The family are anxious that a public gathering for John`s funeral might inadvertently put someone`s health at risk in the context of the current COVID19 pandemic, and are asking that people express their grief by staying at home and joining with the Hume family in a ‘Celebration of Light for Peace`.”

Father Farren continued: “Instead of lining roads and streets to show respect to John, it is the wish of the Hume family that we remain at home and, at 9.00pm, light a candle and join with the family to pray the Prayer for Peace of Saint Francis of Assisi in the presence of John`s body in the Cathedral.

“This `Celebration of Light for Peace` is a fitting tribute to a much loved and distinguished Irishman.”