Loreto Foxrock holds Mass for past pupils who died in tragedy

Mourners gathered at a Mass at Loreto College, Foxrock, for two past pupils who died in the Berkeley tragedy.

Olivia Burke and Eimear Walsh were among the six Irish students who died when a balcony collapsed during a birthday party on Tuesday.

Parish priest Fr Frank Herron told the congregation of about 400 people there were dark days ahead, but the spirit of the community in Foxrock would get them through the difficult times they would face.

“God is the creator who loves us. We’re looking here at an accident and accidents happen. We’re looking here at something no one wanted, it just happened,” he said.

Accidents

“There will be many accidents here in

Ireland

, accidents are part of our lives. It’s how we deal with them and take them on board is what is important.”

He added: “I have no doubt that God is with us in everything we do. If that’s true then God is with them, as he was at every stage of their lives – until he reaches out to welcome us back.”

Fr Herron lauded the local community for rallying around those affected.

He said he opened the local church in Foxrock at 9pm on Tuesday and it remained open until 2am yesterday, with people coming to pray or pay respects.

Those who had visited, including many past pupils, signed a book of condolence for Ms Burke and Ms Walsh.