I have long been fascinated by islands. I remember, as a boy, taking my father’s small boat out to unpopulated islands off West Cork. I would step ashore like Robinson Crusoe on to a perfect, silent beach. There was always a profound serenity on these little islands, the troubles of the world were at a remove.…
Young people are increasingly feeling unhappy, writes Colm Fitzpatrick The 21st Century has been a period of dramatic technological, economic and cultural progress, meaning that society is reaching new highs – but why is it that young people are increasingly feeling so low? Almost half of young people in the UK have experienced a…
Colm Fitzpatrick explores confusion around Easter recycling Easter is a time of spiritual reflection and celebration where families come together and, in many cases, indulge in chocolate eggs and all things confectionary. But now that the festivities have wrapped up, what exactly should you do with the chocolate-smudged wrappings? With so many bins and…
Science of Life A ripple of excitement recently ran through the news media with the announcement that a blood test to detect cancer is under active development. Such a test would undoubtedly be a great boon, enabling very early detection of cancer when treatment has the best hope of success. New medical tests are constantly…
A camp of your choosing! The approaching summer means that children will soon be out of school and itching to make the most of the sunny days. The Kids Guide Summer Fair is designed with this desire in mind, which offers information on a wide selection of more than 50 of the best camps in…
Sweet Treats Cupcakes are an easy treat to make with friends or family. These chocolate cupcakes are perfect if you have an hour or two to spare, and the chocolate nests are a perfect addition to any spring/summer get-together. Cupcakes 130g real butter, at room temperature 130g caster sugar 130g plain flour 1 tsp…
I have a lot of empathy for the disciples in this Sunday’s Gospel (John 20:19-31). They are gathered together in a room with the doors closed, “for fear of the Jews”. When Jesus appears among them the disciples are filled with joy but are not overly surprised. This is not the moment when they realise Jesus…
Personal Profile Jake Trant speaks about a university Catholic society The Dublin University Laurentian Society which takes its name from St Laurence O’Toole, Archbishop of Dublin, was founded in 1953 to provide a meeting place for the growing number of Catholics attending Trinity College. It was one of several societies formed in the period…
Monk takes the sting out of beekeeping discovers Chai Brady and Colm Fitzpatrick With swarms of bees zooming in all directions, seemingly in a state of agitation, the volume of the relentless buzzing oscillates whenever one of the furry insects passes close to an ear – which can be rather shocking. Glenstal Monastery is…
A Parent’s Perspective Easter is such a lovely time of year. With the darker evenings behind us and the daffodils heralding the new growth, there’s a great feeling of hope and joy. For many families, the lead up to Easter is a bit similar to the pre-Christmas period with concerns about catering for family…
Colm Fitzpatrick
William Reville
Bairbre Cahill
Chai Brady
Maria Byrne