“The Society of St Vincent de Paul in Ireland has faced many challenges over its 176 years in the country. But the current COVID-19 pandemic is probably one of the most difficult,” said new president, Rose McGowan.
"We will now be in the dreadful position of having to turn some people away from Mass once 50 people are already present,” said Fr Tim Hazelwood of the Association of Catholic Priests.
“It may be a different experience when coming to Mass again, but it will have Christ at its centre, and the people of God gathered around the altar. That in itself is worth more than any challenge or inconvenience we face in the days ahead.”
People were invited to send in requests to have a specific candle lit for their loved ones, and to pay their own tribute to so many on the front line serving their communities up and down the country.
“This action, which is not taken lightly, is ... the only way of guaranteeing that vulnerable people, who might be so inclined to call into the church to pray or light a candle, are more encouraged to stay at home and keep within the regulations” – Bishop Nulty.
The name of each child who was due to be confirmed on Saturday before the confirmation ceremony was cancelled over the Covid-19 pandemic was read out online, and a candle was placed in front of the altar for each one.
Fr Michael Toomey has appealed to the public to think about and respect those still working and serving during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Fr Michael Toomey backs call for an acute psychiatric facility for Co. Tipperary, which has the highest suicide level in the country outside of Dublin.
Priest describes vandalism as “a form of persecution and evil” and blames disturbed or troubled individual or individuals for “grotesque actions”.
Parishioners were dismayed and disgusted this week when they learned that someone had spray-painted swastika symbols on the cross and nearby oratory.
“It is clear that support for mental health and drug prevention is seriously lacking across the whole area,” Fr Michael Toomey warned Minister for Mental Health, Jim Daly.
Already there have been over 10,000 views of the service internationally, and children recently making their First Holy Communion were able to look at the Mass afterwards on the catch-up service.
Is Fr Colm O’Brien a candidate for sainthood?
“The Church is feminine” and “she is a mother” Pope Francis tells congregation attending Mass at Casa Santa Marta on 21 May.
Diocesan coordinator Fr Michael Toomey said he has been astounded at the enthusiasm and commitment all students have put into this award.
The meeting was organised to explore ways in which the diocese can respond to the pastoral needs of parishioners in light of the declining numbers of priests.
“Social justice is the cornerstone of what we do. I have been strongly involved in social justice at an advocacy level by making pre-budget submissions and I will continue to be involved in that important work,” says Kieran Stafford.
Over 20,000 young people in 21 dioceses throughout Ireland and the UK have successfully completed the Pope John Paul II Award.
A fundraising drive will now take place to raise funds to preserve the tower.
Special welcome for Muriel McAuley, grand-daughter of 1916 leader, Thomas McDonagh, who was in Rockwell from 1892 to 1901.
