Amid concerns over the promotion of indecency within society, an impassioned appeal has been made to both Christian values and the ethical standards of the people. The need to choose between embracing Christian virtues and maintaining moral integrity, versus permitting pagan beliefs and behaviors, has been emphasized. The dichotomy between embracing Christ’s teachings on Sundays and indulging in immorality throughout the week has been highlighted as contradictory.

Particular distress has been expressed about the attendance of young girls at plays featuring explicit content. The necessity for preserving self-respect and modesty, intrinsic elements of decency, has been stressed as incompatible with the spectacle of such inappropriate scenes. Describing the scenes in question is deemed an insult in itself, which underlines the severity of the issue.

A confident plea has been made to the men of the city, with an emphasis on the influential role that the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and the Confraternity of the Holy Family can play. These organizations encompass a considerable portion of the Catholic manhood and have the power to address the situation effectively by merely abstaining from attending theater performances featuring improper content. As the livelihood of the individuals involved in such performances depends on public support, a decline in patronage for prurient and immoral productions would inevitably lead to their discontinuation.

Much of this objectionable content originates from England and portrays aspects of English life alien to Irish culture. The assertion is made that the Irish people possess the strength to uphold their own ethical standards and principles, refraining from being drawn into debasement by the influences of others.

While the message is primarily directed toward the Catholic community, it’s noted that the objective is likely to garner the support of non-Catholic citizens as well. The common goal of upholding private and public virtue at a high level is acknowledged, and cooperation is sought to combat the emerging threat to public morality.

The message concludes by urging everyone to remain steadfast and resolute in maintaining a high standard of conduct, resisting the temptations of the world and the corrupt inclinations inherent in human nature. A biblical reference underscores the importance of working honestly, refraining from immorality, and focusing on the teachings of the faith.

With heartfelt conviction, the Bishop of Limerick, Edward Thomas, urges his fellow citizens to stand firm against the encroachment of indecency and to safeguard the city’s morality.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 07 November 1905