Tribute to peace campaigner Gordon Wilson

A local group representing the main Christian Churches, gathered in North Leitrim on Saturday, May 20 to hold an ecumenical prayer service and tree planting ceremony in memory of the late Senator and peace campaigner, Gordon Wilson who was born in the rural community just outside Manorhamilton in 1927.

Revd. Gerry Comiskey, Marian Harkin TD, Cathaoirleach of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Ita Reynolds Flynn, Revd Noel Regan, John Hassard, son-in-law, and Judith Grey, granddaughter of Senator Gordon Wilson, Revd. David Nixon, President of the Methodists in Ireland, Julie Ann Hassard, the late Senator Gordon Wilson’s daughter who unveiled the plaque, Rev. Laurna Dreaning, Minister of Enniskillen Methodist Church along with Gordon Wilson's great grandchildren Katie Hassard and Wilson Grey. Pictures: James Molloy

The prayer service, which included members of the Wilson family and members of the local community, was led by Rev David Nixon, President of the Methodist Church in Ireland.

Rev Nixon, drew on the themes of forgiveness and reconciliation, recognising that these were the hallmarks of Gordon Wilson’s response to the killing of his daughter, Marie, in the 1987 Enniskillen bombing.

The gathering was also addressed by Gordon Wilson’s daughter Julie Anne Hassard, Rev Gerard Comiskey PP, Rev Noel Regan, Church of Ireland and Cathaoirleach of Leitrim County Council, Cllr Ita Reynolds.