A decline in numbers of the order in Great Britain and Ireland, and a desire to pool resources to promote vocations, prompted the “historic” decision. There are just 25 Capuchin’s left in Great Britain, no longer enough for it to be considered an independent province. There are 65 Irish Capuchin’s left – their average age is…
Sadness as Sisters of Mercy retreat centre ends public ministry
The Galilee Spirituality Centre, Co. Roscommon, announced June 25 that it would be ending it’s public ministry this month, as a shrinking congregation meant it was no longer viable. The three remaining RSM sisters will continue to live at the centre and minister to the local community for the next three years, Sr Olive Flanagan…
At the cutting edge of modern evangelism
Personal Profile Emmet Thompson’s connection with St Eugene’s Cathedral and the nearby Long Tower parish in Derry go all the way back to his childhood. It’s a connection he has maintained through his work as pastoral co-ordinator for the two parishes, a role that was of great importance over lockdown, as Mr Thompson was heavily…
Priest to go ahead with Confirmation, Communion after ‘off the cuff’ postponement
Fr Michael Toomey criticised an “off the cuff” remark from the Tánaiste on June 29, saying the Government “pushed aside” the celebration of Baptisms, Confirmations and Communions
God’s grace transforms sinners into apostles, Pope says
Even the lowliest of sinners can become the greatest of apostles by answering God’s call and allowing his grace to work in their heart and mind, Pope Francis said
EU religious freedom envoy ‘a sop’ without proper support, says ACN Ireland director
The position of EU Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion risks becoming “all talk and no substance” without the requisite funding and staffing, a spokesperson for a charity for persecuted Christians said. The statement came after a Brussels based EU bishops’ conference criticised the envoy’s “limited mandate and resources”, but welcomed the appointment of a…
Well-known NI priest says North a ‘failed state’
Co. Fermanagh priest Fr Joe McVeigh said now is the right time to be discussing a united Ireland, as recent disagreements over devolution have shown Northern Ireland to be “a failed state”. He also called on the DUP and Sinn Féin to work together for “the sake of the people”, as disagreements over abortion and…
New bishop of Ferns clarifies women priests comments after controversy
After Fr Ger Nash appeared to support calls for the ordination of women in an interview with The Clare Champion, he stated that he “fully accepts” that ordination of women “is not in our Church”. In an interview with the The Clare Champion June 18, the bishop-elect of Ferns was asked if he believes women…
Cork parish receives €15,000 boost for historic gates
Gurranabraher parish, Co. Cork, received the funds from the Heritage Council of Ireland, having discovered that the Church gates were created in 1905 by a renowned local craftsman. Fr Tom Walsh PP at the Church of Ascension Parish said they were surprised to discover the “treasure in their midst”, when a parishioner told them the…
New bishop of Ferns ‘daunted’ but eager to get started
Fr Ger Nash tells Ruadhán Jones about the hopes and challenges of his new position Becoming a bishop is a daunting prospect, whatever your age or experience. Fr Ger Nash, who celebrates 30 years as a priest this year, knows this well, having been diocesan secretary of Killaloe for the last 13 years. Asked if…