THE CHIEF celebrant at the funeral Mass of the father and son shot dead in their home last week told the overflowing crowd at the Church of the Assumption in Moyvane, Co Kerry, yesterday, that human life "is sacred."
Up to 30 priests, including Bishop of Kerry Dr Bill Murphy, concelebrated the Mass for widower Michael Hanrahan (60) and his son Denis (27) of The Hill, Moyvane.
Fr Seán Horgan told the 1,500 congregation that the pain and suffering and even anger they might be feeling was natural and "healthy".
There was revulsion "at the violent, reprehensible deed" that ended the two lives, but both men would want their family and friends to journey out of their grief.
At the end of the mass, Shane Hanrahan, twin brother of Denis, his voice trembling at times, said he wanted to share memories of his father and his brother.
As a family they, including his sisters Kayrena (26), Marion (25) and Áine (24) had spent "many happy times". Some of their best memories were of "the beach in Ballybunion". His father had "a real interest in his community", he cherished his faith and he loved being local correspondent for more than 20 years for the Kerryman and the Limerick Leader.
"I know my father and Denis are now joined with Mam in the company of the saints in the holy land of Heaven," he told the congregation, who cried openly and gave him a round of applause.