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In a significant courtroom event just ahead of Holy Week, Father Paul Murphy, an Irish Army chaplain, extended forgiveness to a teenager who attempted to kill him in a knife attack in 2024. This exchange took place at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin on April 10.
“I am in the business of forgiveness,” stated Father Murphy, during his address to the youth, who had previously pleaded guilty to attempted murder after stabbing the priest with a serrated hunting knife. The young man, influenced by radical ideologies online and expressing allegiance to the Islamic State group, carried out the attack.
Father Murphy articulated in his victim impact statement a vision of redemption and change for his attacker: “My only desire is that you would learn to see the error of your ways and, when the time comes, return to society to make a positive contribution to the world as a wholesome, happy and loving person.” His words resonated deeply with many present in the courtroom.
The attack occurred at Renmore Barracks in Galway, resulting in multiple injuries to Father Murphy, with lasting effects on his left arm. Gerard Gallagher, secretary general of the Association of Leaders of Missionaries and Religious of Ireland, commended the priest's response: “His gesture in offering forgiveness is an example of true priesthood as we prepare for Holy Week.”
Father Murphy, who was not specifically targeted but rather a victim of circumstance, survived due to the partial opening of his car window during the attack. Despite the danger, he considered himself the "right person" in the "right place, at the right time," viewing the night as “filled with blessings.”
The assailant, motivated by a desire for revenge against the Irish Army’s deployment in Mali, continued the assault despite soldiers' intervention. It was concluded only when the soldiers disabled the teenager.
Reflecting on the event, Father Murphy drew parallels with Jesuit Father Willie Doyle, an Irish army chaplain who died in World War I, and expressed his belief in divine intervention during his ordeal. Following the courtroom proceedings, the youth apologized and embraced Father Murphy. The sentencing is set for April 29.
Sarah Mac Donald contributed to this report from Dublin.
