Hundreds attend vigil held for family injured in M9 crash

Families in pain gathered for a prayer vigil last evening in St Clare's Church in Graiguecullen, Co Carlow. The vigil paid tribute to four members of a family injured in a crash on the M9 motorway last weekend. The church was packed, with additional attendees in a nearby parish center that had to accommodate overflow. The victims, three women and a seven-year-old boy, were heading to Dublin Airport when their vehicle collided with another being driven in the incorrect lane direction.

They now reside in the hospital, recovering from severe injuries. A fundraising effort has amassed over €675,000 for the family.

The Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, Denis Nulty, delivered a speech during the event. Nulty reflected on how the family could be any of us on the road from Carlow to catch a flight from Dublin Airport. The bishop emphasized the community's solidarity and support for the family, stating that words fail and we often feel helpless.

Nulty thanked the first responders for their tireless efforts on the M9 last Sunday. He also remembered the five boys in the other vehicle, extending prayers to their heartbroken families and friends. Bishop Nulty urged caution in language use, emphasizing that words can both hurt and heal. He reminded attendees to be mindful of their social media posts, as they cannot be unposted.

Earlier, Bishop Nulty described it as a tough day for Carlow and the surrounding areas. Fr John Dunphy echoed the sentiments, noting that the community had been numbed since Sunday morning. However, he assured everyone that they were not alone in their grief. Fr Dunphy stated that the family had been in contact, expressing gratitude for the prayers and support.

He also praised the emergency services for going beyond their duties. Fr Dunphy concluded, stating that the family was on a long road to recovery and that God would help them make a full recovery.