“We appreciate that a Religious Order has to look at its resources of personnel from time to time – the age profile of the members and the shortage of Vocations – and to try to continue to be faithful to the charism of the Order in the prevailing circumstances.”

Health concerns cause Bishop Martin Drennan and Bishop Seamus Freeman to retire early.

Ordination of two new deacons will be followed in July by the ordination of two Pallottines to the priesthood.

Appointee to support work of parishes and offer vision and leadership to enable priests and people make needed changes to allow parishes continue to be vibrant faith communities.

Youth 2000 and Medjugorje played a part in vocation stories of Rev Brendan McCarrick sac and Rev Jaimie Twohig sac.

Bishop of Ossory says it is hard to wish a 'happy Christmas' knowing it will not be a happy Christmas for the sick, the unemployed, the bereaved, the troubled.

Leader of the Church in Ossory expected to make a full recovery.