Separating faith from politics, suggests Christianity has nothing to say on social justice, writes David Quinn Many Catholics entirely separate their faith from their politics. It is a very strange move. It’s as if they believe the Gospel has nothing to say about the just ordering of society, which is ultimately what politics is about,…

“We want to build a sense of identity and mission that allows us to serve others, to bring God’s mercy”, writes Breda O’Brien At the weekend conference focusing on Pope Francis and the family, there was very little emphasis on ‘hot-button’ issues like same-sex marriage. Instead, there was a focus on building a strong sense…

A Vatican cardinal has confirmed that an increasing number of priests turn down appointment as bishop, writes Michael Kelly A joke popular in some clerical circles is to quip that anyone who wants to be a bishop deserves it. But, more often than not, many a true word is spoken in jest. Anyone intimately acquainted…

Christians are closer, but theological obstacles to unity seem to be multiplying, writes Martin Browne OSB The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is over for another year. I have more than a passing interest in this annual observance. Ecumenical prayer and cooperation have long been an important part of my own spiritual journey. Added…

Politicians have forgotten about ‘vulnerable fellow citizens’ in the prelude to the Rising Centenary, writes Editor Michael Kelly The Fine Gael-Labour coalition has been at pains to point out that the commemorations of the anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising should be as inclusive as possible. The State has given grants to unionist communities in…

“Contentment, I think, is a gift and an occasion for gratitude”, writes Mary Kenny What is the secret of happiness? Many books have been written in its pursuit. My Edwardian mother-in-law used to say “disposition”, and this may well be a key. Alexander Pope said as much in his Essay on Man, comparing a rich…

“It is obvious that the electorate is looking for financial relief, after the income falls of the crash years”, writes Dr Martin Mansergh Voting is a civic duty. Under the Constitution, “all powers of government, legislative, executive and judicial, derive, under God, from the people”. They have the right to choose their rulers, in elections,…

Confession must be at the heart of the Year of Mercy, writes David Quinn We are now into the second month of the Year of Mercy begun by Pope Francis before Christmas. It is a Jubilee Year and the Pope has urged Catholics to “live mercy”. To this extent we have been urged to practice…

Cathal Barry examines whether a priest’s character should influence the Mass The Irish are well known for their larger than life personalities and priests from these parts are no exception. The personality of the celebrant is a prominent element in the celebration of the liturgy, especially the Mass, particularly since the Second Vatican Council. To…

Jews in France are leading a new exodus, writes Paul Keenan When one speaks of ‘mass migration’ in Europe, it is a near certainty that the term prompts visions of desperate Syrians moving into the continent via its open southern shores. Yet, today, there is another dramatic wave of migration taking place, less noted, but…