Coming to terms with the way we live today

Frank Litton We learn two things from history. Assumptions quite different from those that frame our world shaped the actions of our predecessors. The second follows from this. World views do change. They are human constructions that endure for long periods. We might think of them as buildings, but if we do, they are buildings…

10 ways to prepare for first Communion day

Joseph D. White A child’s First Communion is an important and exciting milestone in the life of a Catholic family. As the first and most important teachers of their children, parents present their children for baptism and guide them toward Christ as they are initiated into the church community. Handing on our faith to the…

Public speaking teachers needed for laity

Dear Editor, The Synod on Synodality is occupying the centre stage in the Catholic media at present, so it is important not to miss matters relating to day-to-day problems needing swift resolution. In this context the ‘Notebook’ on the back page of The Irish Catholic is always worth reading. Fr Martin Delaney’s contribution ‘Poorly proclaimed…

In praise of singing

Laura Kelly Fanucci The first thing I noticed about our parish was the music. Everyone sang. From the moment the opening hymn began, the sanctuary was filled with a robust chorus. I looked around and couldn’t believe my eyes (or ears) – adults, children, women and men were all singing at full voice.I grew up…

Almsgiving and fasting can both be about money

Phil Lenahan In word and deed, Pope Francis continues to encourage Catholics to reach out to the poor and not succumb to a consumerist mentality where what we have is deemed more important than who we are. The season of Lent provides a special opportunity to take the Holy Father’s words to heart and live…

A fast for peace and plenty

Letter from Jerusalem Justin Robinson OSB Pilgrims who have walked Jerusalem’s Via Dolorosa will likely have visited the birthplace of the Virgin Mary at St Anne’s church, at the start of that hallowed route. The Crusader structure possess beauty in its noble simplicity, and it sits next to the Bethesda Pools where Jesus healed the…

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Adapting to parenthood’s changing needs

Dear Editor, I am writing in response to Mary Kenny’s thought-provoking article on modern parenthood, particularly its emphasis on ‘positive parenting’ and the potential consequences thereof [The Irish Catholic – February 29, 2024]. As a grandmother reflecting on the evolution of child-rearing practices, I’m particularly interested in Ms Kenny’s pertinent questions about the impact of…

The More You Know: About the proposed Amendments…

Our Constitution was not written by a male-pale-and-stale politician, unforgivably taller than Leo, and nor was it supervised by an archbishop notorious for almost always being “displeased”.  It was written by great Irish lawyers. And, most importantly, it incorporated many protections for the citizens against the State. The decline and fall of the British Empire…