GOODWILL MESSAGE: Religious leaders and representatives of many faiths in Ireland have expressed their best wishes for the success of the Games.
Extending his greetings to all involved on behalf of the Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin, Cardinal Desmond Connell saluted "especially the athletes and officials". He commended all involved with the Games "for their inspiring example of dedication, enthusiasm and generosity".
The Church of lreland Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Rev John Neill, welcomed the Olympic flame to Ireland. He extended a "céad míle fáilte" to all involved with the Games, who he described as "ambassadors of hope, energy, warmth, light, life and empowerment".
Rev Dr Samuel Mawhinney, Moderator of Dublin and Munster Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, told participants "we are delighted that you have come, and we want you to enjoy your participation in the Games and your experience of being hosted in Ireland".
Rev Dr Kenneth Wilson, Superintendent of the Dublin District of the Methodist Church in Ireland, said to participants it gave him "great pleasure to join with other religious leaders in saying céad míle fáilte romhaibh go léir' - a hundred thousand welcomes to you all".
On behalf of the Jewish community, Chief Rabbi Dr Yaakov Pearlman said: "Your many countries of origin are located across the globe, and your participation affirms the celebration of and respect for diversity and multicultural co-operation."
Imam Sheikh Hussein Halawa, of the Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland, said that "as the flame of hope arrives may we unite in pursuing mutual understanding and peace amongst one another. I wish you all a happy stay in hospitable Ireland".
Lama Yeshe Losal, Abbot and director of the Buddhist Centre at Kilmainham, Dublin, said that ancient scriptures preserved in the Buddhist tradition recounted how Buddha Shakyamuni took part in many and various athletic competitions. "The Special Olympics torch...illuminates the extent of local and international co-operation, determination and goodwill which has made this event possible."