Hypocritical pastors wound the Church – Pope

Vatican Roundup   Pastors who preach one thing and do another are wounded and harm the Church, Pope Francis said. Like the scribes and Pharisees of old, pastors end up leading a double life when they detach themselves from God and his people, the Pope said during morning Mass at the Domus Sanctae Marthae. “Jesus…

Family News and Events

Kilkenny church is a major attraction Would-be historians in the family aren’t the only ones likely to be thrilled by a visit to the former St Mary’s Church in Kilkenny. Now the ultra-modern Medieval Mile Museum, the 13th-Century former church is Kilkenney’s newest visitor attraction, packed with medieval artefacts and treasures, and the starting point…

God’s power is at its best in weakness

Dear Editor, Like many people, I am heartbroken by the news that the wonderful Dolores O’Riordan has died. She was a wonderful artist, but above all a daughter, a mother and a sister. She loved Limerick, and Limerick loved her. We live in a culture where strength is prized above all else. A world dominated…

Observe silence, don’t hurry at Mass says Pontiff

Vatican Roundup   Pope Francis has said the silence that precedes the opening prayer at Mass is an opportunity for Christians to commend to God the fate of the Church and the world. Departing from his prepared text at his weekly General Audience, the Pope urged priests “to observe this brief silence and not hurry”.…

Around the world

Australia: Family and friends sprinkle holy water on the caskets of three family members of actress Jessica Falkholt (best known for her role in ‘Home and Away’) after their funeral Mass at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Sydney. Lars, Vivian and Annabelle Falkholt were killed in a car accident the day after Christmas.

Around the world

Holy Land: A Palestinian demonstrator hurls stones toward Israeli troops near Nablus, West Bank, during a protest against US President Donald Trump’s decision to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.