For 77 years, the planes at Dublin Airport have been sanctified by the sacred ritual of a Catholic priest blessing them, marking one of the most unique traditions in aviation. This year, despite aggressive opposition from secular groups, the ceremony continued, embodying the resilience of Irish Catholic heritage.
The tradition commenced in 1947, when Aer Lingus, Ireland's flag carrier, named its aircraft after saints, a practice deeply rooted in the country's Catholic faith. Back then, the skies over Dublin were quiet, and the blessing was a modest affair involving just a few planes. As air traffic increased, the ceremony was shifted to Christmas Day, the only day the airport closes, allowing for a more comprehensive blessing.
The ritual has not only been a spiritual event but also a cultural one, with Father Des Doyle, who served as chaplain for 16 years, noting its tremendous positive reception among staff and passengers alike. The blessing involves prayers for the safety of travelers, invoking the protection of the Virgin Mary and the guidance of guardian angels, mirroring the spiritual aspirations of a predominantly Catholic Ireland.
In recent times, this tradition has faced scrutiny and opposition, particularly from secular campaigners and atheist groups. Earlier this year, there was an outcry when reports suggested that the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) might end the tradition due to new security protocols restricting airside access. Critics argued that such a ritual was out of place in a modern, secular society.
The controversy was further fueled when an atheist activist, John Hamill, demanded a "non-religious" blessing, leading to accusations of the DAA caving to secular pressures. This sparked a significant debate on social media and in public forums about the place of religious practices in public spaces like airports. The initial decision to review the tradition was met with backlash from traditionalists and those who value the cultural significance of the blessing, prompting a reevaluation by the airport authority.
Despite the noise from detractors, the blessing of the planes did indeed take place this year, continuing its legacy. Father Justin Obijuru, a Nigerian-born priest, took up the mantle as airport chaplain, ensuring the continuity of this custom which had been under threat. This year's blessing, while adapting to new airport operations, maintained its spiritual essence, reflecting changes in Irish society while holding firm to its core purpose.
The blessing of planes at Dublin Airport is more than just a ritual; it's a symbol of Ireland's Catholic identity amidst a changing cultural landscape. This year's continuation of the tradition, against the backdrop of opposition, serves as a reminder of the enduring strength of faith and heritage.
