Deacon Gidolf’s family, Seena, Romald, Serena, and Tracy,
pictured with Bishop of Waterford and Lismore Phonsie
Cullinan at the recent book launch of the deacon’s Bonds
and Blessings. There is a palpable fear within the Indian community in Ireland today. As an Irish citizen of Indian origin, I hear it from friends, colleagues, and families who feel anxious, unsettled, and in some cases deeply frightened.
The recent, abhorrent spate of racist attacks has shaken our confidence. As someone who was the victim of a racial attack in Dublin myself, I understand this fear not just intellectually, but personally.
Yet fear, even when justified, does not tell the full story of this nation.
I have lived and worked in Ireland for over 20 years, first as a social worker in the HSE and now as an ordained Deacon in the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore. The Ireland I know and the Ireland that welcomed me is not defined by those hateful videos circulating online.
Soul
The true soul of this country is rooted in kindness, generosity, and an extraordinary capacity for community. The famous Céad Míle Fáilte (100 thousand welcomes!) is more than a tourism slogan. It reflects a deeply held belief that every person carries God-given dignity, regardless of their origin, colour, or creed.
Ireland’s story is one of faith, resilience, migration, and compassion. That story deserves to be honoured. The overwhelming majority of Irish people still uphold these values and stand shoulder to shoulder with newcomers who now call this place home.
The actions we are seeing today are not the heart of Ireland. They are criminal acts driven by ignorance and fear. As I said recently on TippFM, imagine how the Irish would feel if St Patrick’s Day celebrations in America or Australia were cancelled because of targeted attacks against Irish people. The hurt would be immense. That is the pain so many in our community feel now.
Racism is not simply a political or social problem. It is a spiritual wound, an assault on human dignity, and a denial of the hospitality that shapes this country’s identity.
Unite
However, our response must unite both heart and head. As a Deacon, pastoral compassion is essential, but so too is prudence. Wisdom protects. It does not panic.
So, to my friends in the Indian community: yes, you belong here. Yes, this country values you and the enormous contribution you make in healthcare, education, hospitality, business, parish life, and so much more. Ireland would be poorer without you.
To be wise is not to be weak. Prudence keeps us safe, confident, and connected”
At the same time, we must remain alert and look out for one another. Anti-social behaviour exists everywhere in the world. Unfortunately, racialised incidents are increasing here, and pretending otherwise helps no one. The Indian Embassy was right to advise caution. Being street-smart, especially at vulnerable times and in vulnerable places, is not fear. It is merely responsible living.
To be wise is not to be weak. Prudence keeps us safe, confident, and connected.
To our Irish friends, neighbours, and parish communities: this is not the moment for silence. Standing visibly with those who are anxious sends a message that bigotry will not shape Ireland’s future. The soul of this nation is strong, but it must be defended through solidarity, advocacy, and everyday acts of welcome.
Let us hold firm to the values that make Ireland an extraordinary place to live. Let us respond to fear not with division, but with hope. Let us walk together with courage. India’s children and Ireland’s children will grow up side by side. What kind of Ireland do we want to hand to them?
May it be one filled with fellowship. One where dignity is honoured. One where every community feels safe, valued, and at home.
That is the Ireland the world has admired for generations. That is the Ireland worth protecting.
Lazarus Gidolf is a Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore.