“One of the great strengths of our Catholic schools is that they form part of a wider parish and faith community who support one another," says Bishop Fintan Gavin.

"I do not feel that rushing Confirmations just in order to get them done will be the best experience for the children involved," says Archbishop Diarmuid Martin.

The bishop noted that Pope Francis has asked people to pray for political leaders as they seek the common good, and to be courageous in caring for people on the margins, those whose life needs special protection, and all who are vulnerable.

One keynote speaker is the exceptionally popular and established teacher and author, Dr Scott Hahn. Fr Mike Schmitz, one of the most sought-after Catholic speakers in the US, will also be presenting at the online conference.

As the number of priests in the diocese grows smaller, Bishop Gavin said: “We need to actively go out of our way to encourage, foster, nourish and promote vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life.”

This was the moment God changed the course of human history – Bishop Fintan Gavin and Bishop Paul Colton.

Through the awards, young people are able to take an active part in the life of their Church and become more aware of the teaching and role of the Catholic Church in the world.

There are now very serious concerns about the consequences to the viability of Bord na Móna as an iconic Irish company, says Bishop Francis Duffy

“We stand in solidarity with survivors and their families and we continue our commitment and vigilance to the protection and safeguarding of children in our Church and in society.”