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I remembered going to confession to a great priest, Father…

“I remembered going to confession to a great priest, Father Moriarty of South William Street. I told him, "I shot a man, Father." "Did you think you were doing right? Had you no qualms about it?" he asked me. I told him I didn't have any qualms, I thought I was doing right, and he said, "Carry on…” quote by Tim Pat Coogan
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““I remembered going to confession to a great priest, Father Moriarty of South William Street. I told him, "I shot a man, Father." "Did you think you were doing right? Had you no qualms about it?" he asked me. I told him I didn't have any qualms, I thought I was doing right, and he said, "Carry on with the good work," and gave me absolution.””

Tim Pat Coogan

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A priest confronts a murderer about moral justification, questioning conscience and duty.

In simple terms: Questioning moral certainty in violent acts.

Key Takeaway

Reflect on the ethics of your actions.

Themes

morality guilt authority

Mood

conflicted thoughtful

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • war crimes
  • personal accountability
  • spiritual guidance

Key Concepts

ethical dilemmas religious counsel

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you accept absolution without remorse?
  • What responsibility remains after forgiveness?
A Different Perspective

The priest’s advice may oversimplify complex moral responsibility.

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