Albert Reynolds was a peacemaker and a central figure to bringing an end to violence in Northern Ireland.
The words of Father Brian Darcy at the funeral mass for the former Taoiseach this afternoon.
Mr Reynolds – who was 81 – died last Thursday.
As the Reynolds family arrived at the Sacred Heart Church, among those attending the funeral were President Michael D Higgins, Taoiseach enda Kenny and former Taoisigh Liam Cosgrave, Bertie Ahern, John Bruton and Brian Cowen.
Former British Prime Minister John Major is attending, saying where else would he be on this day.
Northern Ireland's D F M Martin mcguinness and Northern Sec Tersa Villiers were present too, alongside fashion designer Louise Kennedy and racehorse owner JP McManus.
Father Brian Darcy who is celebrating the mass says today's mass is prayerful and joyous as that's what Albert Reynolds wanted.
Eimear Quinn along with musicians Paddy Cole and Eamon Monaghan are central to the mass, with "Stranger on a Shore" for reflection at communion.
The former Taoiseach's grandchildren brought up symbols to reflect his life – among them the award of the freedom of Longford, a deck of cards, a tin of dog food to represent the family business, a racing card and his copy of the Downing Street Declaration.
In his homily Father Brian Darcy said Albert Reynolds was working for peace long before Taoiseach – he had transported letters to and from Albert Reynolds and people in the North he didn't know.
His son Philip will deliver a eulogy before the final commendation from the Primate of Ireland and Archbishop of Dublin, Diarmaid Martin.
Mr Reynolds will then travel to his final resting place – Shanganagh Cemetery in South Dublin.
