Christian hope and resilience go hand in hand, writes Colm Fitzpatrick In a world that is becoming increasingly characterised by conflict, confusion and uncertainty, the ability to adapt well in the face of adversity is a value more prized than ever before. While it’s easy to ignore our own failings or struggles and coil…
Youth Space Dan Pender reflects on the unforgettable impact of the papal visit On a changeable Summer’s day in the Phoenix Park amidst a sea of memorabilia, crucifixes and ‘Lollipopes’ I got to see the Holy Father himself, Pope Francis. Back in April when my classmates and I were asked to volunteer for the…
Everyday Philosophy Philosophy is having a bit of a moment in Ireland. It became a Junior Cert short course in 2016, and there are moves afoot to make it a Leaving Cert subject. The Philosophy Ireland organisation is running more workshops every year, in schools, workplaces and prisons. Our President made the promotion of…
Abuse in the home is a reality that must be faced and it is happening in our communities, writes Sr Fiona Pryle After the murder of Garda Tony Golden in Omeath, Co. Louth in October 2015, it was widely reported in the media that he lost his life keeping the peace. The reality is…
Youth Space Retreats give us time to stop and think about ourselves and God, writes James McNamara For most teenagers, the prospect of a class outing creates a sense of anticipation, excitement, adventure and fun. A break from school, an opportunity to relax, but Ms Ronan’s next two words rang alarm bells: ‘Lough Derg.’…
Don’t forget that Christmas is a time for sharing, writes Colm Fitzpatrick The Christmas season has the incredible ability to turn an empty, quiet house into a bustling and lively hub where families – for a short period of time – can catch up and reminisce over stories and jokes long gone past. However,…
Youth Space Challenging discussions can enrich our Faith, writes Rachel Sherlock Doom and gloom is the typical tone when it comes to talking about young people in the Catholic Church. From parish pulpits to Vatican synods, there are endless calls to reach out to a demographic that seems more and more to be moving…
Choosing to buy your child a mobile phone is a complex and difficult decision, writes Colm Fitzpatrick In years gone past, choosing a Christmas present for your child rarely raised any moral conundrums or worries about what long-lasting effects it may have on their development. A quick glance at history’s most popular presents from…
Youth Space Gerry Doherty reflects on his spiritual journey with Youth 2000 “I want you to be happy, always happy in the Lord!” (Phil. 4:4) These were the words that have stayed with me since the night my 16-year-old self had first arrived at the Youth 2000 Summer Retreat in Cistercian College, Roscrea on August 16, 2014. I want to tell you why this phrase is…
Colm Fitzpatrick