The visit of Pope Francis to Ireland next year is an opportunity for members of the Irish hierarchy to reach out to those who think differently – Fr Tony Flannery.

“I have received a detailed signed retraction and admission that lies were told and a signed apology. My legal fees were paid and a generous donation was paid to my nominated charity, Aware.”

“The Church is at a cross-roads,” he said, “and we could get stuck at the cross-roads unless we decide to respond proactively”.

Radical proposals include ordination of women as deacons, inviting back men who left priesthood to marry and ordination of married men of good standing.

Crisis of faith is far more serious than most Church leaders recognise, warns head of Mater Dei.