“For God so loved the [people of Ireland] that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).
The Republic of Ireland is a sovereign state in northwestern Europe occupying about five-sixths of the island of Ireland (the remainder belongs to the United Kingdom). The island is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. Ireland has a moderate climate and lush vegetation. The country has a population of almost five million. Its capital and largest city is Dublin.
The republic’s official languages are Irish and English. Catholicism is the predominant religion (84% of the nation’s citizens are Catholic). Today we pray that the Irish people will read the Bible for themselves and realize that the only true “Father” is God Almighty: “You are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brethren. And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. Neither be called masters, for you have one master, the Christ. He who is greatest among you shall be your servant; whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted” (Matt. 23:8-12).
Note: Wikipedia is the primary source for the geographical information in this feature.