In September I had the chance to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery with some friends. We happened on the ‘Changing of the Guard’, and it was an impressive ceremony. I took out my phone to try to record but the day was bright, and I could not really see the…
I sat the Leaving Certificate in June 1981. I don’t remember much about it other than I am sure I was very nervous, since that would be my default setting for all exams! In my mind’s eye, I can see hands going up looking for an extra answer sheet whilst mine was less than a…
This year the Basilica in Knock celebrates its Golden Jubilee. Opened in 1976, it has welcomed countless thousands, if not millions, through its many and open doors. On the third Sunday of May 1976, as a thirteen-year-old boy, I was in Knock for the Annual Diocesan Pilgrimage. My parents and brothers were there also. Bishop…
Recently we had five evenings in the parish, that gave us space and time to reflect a little on The Rosary. The idea came from a number of Parish Pastoral Council meetings where we looked for ways to engage with the parish on a shared journey of faith. The discussion led us to exploring the…
Like most parishes in the country, we recently celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation. As the day approached, I had mixed feelings. I had no worries about the Liturgy and knew that the teachers in the local school had been preparing with the boys and girls. I had no reason to believe the children were not…
A lovely question, posed by a child in first class in a local National School. We had chatted a while and when I was leaving, I asked if there were any questions – I wasn’t expecting but was very pleased by this one – “Will you say a prayer with us?” Not for us, but…
It’s a topical question, perhaps! Many years ago, when visiting a school in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday, I spoke with the children about making a sacrifice during Lent. I asked them what they were doing and the answers were understandably predictable. “I’m giving up sweets”, said one. “Fizzy Drinks”, said another, and…
Since 2012, I have been part of a gathering on Christmas Eve. It is a short and simple gathering at the empty Crib. The intention is to invite younger families to take a little time out from what can be a busy day of last-minute preparations. The hope is that this little bit of time…
My aunt celebrated her 102nd birthday a few days ago. She is a remarkable woman who, to this day, has a twinkle in her eye and a firm hold on life. She married my uncle in America in the late 60’s and later they came to live in Ireland, building a new home a short…
On Monday afternoon, my phone buzzed in my pocket. It was a call from The Irish Catholic, wondering about this week’s article! Alas, I had forgotten. For six days, I had been part of a group of forty-six pilgrims from the Dioceses of Achonry and Elphin, visiting Rome to celebrate the Jubilee of Hope. On…