Aux bishop-elect praises Dublin’s strength in ‘challenging times’

The newly appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Dublin has commended the “commitment and faith” of laity and priests in the archdiocese despite the “uncertain” road ahead. Fr Donal Roche’s appointment by Pope Francis was announced in St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral on Tuesday. An experienced educator and pastor, he spent almost two decades involved in religious education and…

Book targeting evil welcomed by priest expert

An Irish expert in deliverance ministry and exorcism has welcomed a booklet brought out by the Catholic bishops’ conference of England and Wales said to help Catholics “protect themselves from the powers of darkness”. In a statement, the bishops said Deliver Us From Evil does not provide a formula of words to be prayed over others, but…

Building trust to help people off the streets

Those struggling with homelessness often become “closed off, guarded and secretive” in order to protect themselves, but Franciscan-founded Merchants Quay Ireland (MQI) in Dublin City Centre offer an environment in which people feel respected and safe. From a platform of trust, staff can assist people to access physical and mental health and addiction services. As…

Priest who has buried A5 victims welcomes funding

A priest who has witnessed first-hand the devastation caused by road traffic collisions on the “dangerous” A5 road, has welcomed the Irish Government’s funding announcement. While reacting positively to Tuesday’s €600m funding promise for the A5, Fr Michael O’Dwyer PP of Errigal Ciaran parish in Co. Tyrone said, “it is long overdue”. “We have had…