An international Mass is Aghalurcher parish’s way of saying “welcome” to new parishioners from all over the world, according to parish priest Fr Jimmy McPhillips. The parish is conscious of the fact that despite having had members of the international community attending for some time, there’s a growing number to reach out to. “I’m five…

An independent investigator is to be appointed to investigate a complaints case in Mary Immaculate College (MIC), following the intervention of the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), The Irish Catholic understands. The WRC led a conciliation process between the parties, who agreed on the appointment of an independent investigator, a source told this paper. It is…

The Capuchin Friars were officially welcomed to Knock Shrine on Sunday by the Shrine Rector, Fr Richard Gibbons, with Capuchin Provincial Bro. Sean Kelly describing their new presence there as “a new chapter of our mission”. Pilgrims from all over Ireland travelled to Knock for the annual Padre Pio Retreat and Pilgrimage, with many queuing…

Six in 10 parents in the North want “full consultation” on new sexual education regulations, a new poll shows. Seven in 10 parents also strongly oppose the idea that schools can refer children for an abortion without their consent, according to the poll from the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children (SPUC). Asked if…

The Future Leaders’ Programme, an initiative of the Pro Life Campaign, is due to begin on Thursday, October 5. The course is aimed at equipping the next generation of pro-life advocates (aged 18-30) with the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to effectively articulate the pro-life message. “This great opportunity for young people consists of a…

Archbishop of Armagh Eamon Martin visited Lough Neagh as the largest freshwater lake in Ireland succumbs to toxic blue-green algae and as the Archbishops of Armagh issued a joint call for a Lough Neagh taskforce to tackle the issue. The algae is killing fish, birds and dogs, with concerns about public health arising too as…

Members of St Fintan’s parish community, Sutton, Co. Dublin, were joined by Archbishop of Dublin Dermot Farrell as they celebrated the 50th anniversary of the church at the heart of their commuimty. Archbishop Farrell was principal celebrant at Mass on Sunday, September 17, joined by priests who have served in the parish over the past…

Fr Stephen Ward is Derry’s newest priest following his ordination to the priesthood in Christ the King in Omagh, Co. Tyrone by Bishop McKeown, September 10. The eldest of two children, Fr Ward was born to Patricia and the late Paul Ward, of Killyclogher, Co Tyrone. In January, at Fr Ward’s ordination to the Diaconate…

Irish Prison Service honoured by Pieta House for promoting mental-health The Irish Prison Service has become the first public or private employer to be awarded the prestigious Amber Flag by Pieta House for its work in promoting mental well-being. This recognition highlights the Service’s commitment to fostering mental well-being and creating a supportive environment for…