Renata is a Brazilian journalist who holds a Master’s degree in Journalism with first-class honours, completed in 2023. She joined The Irish Catholic in April 2024 as a multimedia journalist, where she brings a fresh, international perspective to storytelling through a range of digital platforms.
The Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM), known as the Loreto Sisters, and the Congregation of Jesus (CJ) merged into one congregation during Mass in Loyola, Spain on November 4. The two congregations, which are present in over 40 countries, share the same foundress, Venerable Mary Ward. The merger brought together around 1,880 sisters…
Last week, the two branches of Venerable Mary Ward’s work were merged into one. On November 4, the Congregation of Jesus (CJ) and the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBVM), known as the Loreto Sisters, have merged into one congregation during Mass in Loyola, Spain. The merger brought together around 1,880 sisters worldwide under…
A bereavement course is being held this month in Ballina, Co. Mayo to provide understanding and support for those facing loss. The programme, organised by Killala Diocese is hosted by Monica Morley, Director of the Knock Shrine Family Centre and takes place every Tuesday from November 4-25 at The Newman Institute. “I think in Ireland…
The Order of Malta launched their 2025 Christmas Appeal campaign at Government Buildings. The appeal, in support of the Holy Family Hospital of Bethlehem, was officially launched by An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin on October 31. “The Holy Family Hospital stands as a living symbol of hope and peace,” John Wright, Hospitaller of the Order of…
The Diocese of Kerry developed a new role in pastoral leadership in response to the synodal call that each baptised person should play a part in their local communities. The diocese said the new role was created as there is a growing concern about the future of the parishes with the dropping number of available…
Passing on the faith is not just the role of priests or bishops”, Bishop of Ossory Niall Coll said in a recent pastoral letter. Catechists are people who help others to grow in their faith, the bishop said, and he urged “the people of Ossory” to come forward and begin a time of discernment and…
We can never say it’s enough,” stated Bl. Catherine McAuley on page two of her Familiar Instructions. For the past nearly two centuries, the Mercy Order has been responding to the needs of the vulnerable, the sick and the poor. Everything started with the leadership of a determined woman. On a visit to the Mercy…
Loreto schools marked historical milestones last week with celebrations in Ireland. Loreto Secondary School Bray commemorated 175 years with Mass and a tea gathering on October 2. On the same day, Loreto High School Beaufort, Rathfarnham celebrated its first centenary with current and past pupils. This year also marks the 150th anniversary of the first…
Many young people joined Armagh Parish’s ‘Week of Hope’, said Admin. Fr Barry Matthews. The event took place from September 28 to October 5 and was “an opportunity” for the local community to come together in faith and share stories and experiences. He said the young attendees were inspired by the “speaker’s courage as they…
As the pilgrimage season 2025 closes in Lough Derg, the sanctuary team announced a significant rise in attendance this year. The three-day pilgrimage had an increase of 11%, while one-day retreats rose 23%. “The increased number of pilgrims this year reaffirms Lough Derg’s role as a beacon of hope and spiritual renewal,” they said. In…