The Bishop of Derry says the biggest challenge facing the Church in the immediate aftermath of Covid-19 will be “rebuilding” its communities. In his homily on Trinity Sunday, Bishop Donal McKeown said the Faithful’s sense of belonging has either “vanished” or is being “lived in virtual form” during the pandemic. He remained hopeful that “community…
Highlighting the increase in domestic violence calls reported by An Garda Síochána over the last year, the bishop of Kildare and Leighlin has pointed people to Accord’s counselling service. Posting on social media, Bishop Denis Nulty said Accord counsellors are trained to help those suffering from domestic violence. He said there has been a “25%…
Despite the coronavirus pandemic coming at a time “of weakness unparalleled” in the Church’s recent history, the “challenge has been met” according to Archbishop Michael Neary. “Parishes organised Masses on webcam and radio. Many priests and bishops took to ministry via online and digital media with flair and creativity. A tired Church, wearied by relentless change, found new strength…
The death has occurred of prominent educationalist Msgr Jim Cassin. He was a priest of the Diocese of Ossory and served for many years as the Church’s national secretary for education. He died in St Luke’s Hospital in Kilkenny on Friday and was laid to rest following a private requiem Mass on Tuesday. He was…
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar confirmed this afternoon (Friday) that Catholics can start to safely gather together for Mass from June 29, following health and safety protocols. He also announced that from Monday up to 25 people can attend funerals. Last night Archbishop Diarmuid said that he will meet with other members of the hierarchy on Monday…
Catholics in the Republic may be able to begin gathering together to celebrate Mass on June 29, three weeks earlier than the Government’s original roadmap according to Archbishop Diarmuid Martin. There is no indication when Masses will be permitted north of the border, but authorities are known to be keen to work in tandem. The…
The Diocese of Down and Connor has announced that funeral Masses will now resume having been suspended since March due to Covid-19 measures. It will be welcomed by many grieving families who acutely felt the pain of not having a funeral. It was one of only two dioceses where funeral services and requiem Masses were…
Virus lockdown has increased people’s faith The challenge of re-opening churches for public Mass should be used as a moment to revitalise parish councils, a leading theologian has said in response to new research which shows increased online and offline prayer and practice. Prof. Eamonn Conway told The Irish Catholic: “The main positive I…
Parishioners who have missed being physically present at the celebration of the Eucharist will have a unique chance to participate in a ‘drive-in Mass’ on Corpus Christi, Sunday, June 14. Religious tour specialists Marian Pilgrimages are in advanced plans to hold an open-air Mass which will be held in Leopardstown, Dublin just off the M50…
Former Taoisigh Bertie Ahern and John Bruton have said the current restrictions on church services must be addressed and “flexibility” given. Speaking to The Irish Catholic, Mr Bruton said there can never be “absolute safety”, and that “anyone who is a practicing Catholic would regard the sacraments as essential”. “The problem now I think is…
Michael Kelly
Ruadhán Jones
Chai Brady