Dear Editor, Christians in Bethlehem are facing immense challenges amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The uncertainty and fear that has gripped the region has taken a toll on the lives of the residents, especially those who depend on tourism for their livelihoods. Bethlehem is not only a spiritual home but also a…
Dear Editor, I write with a heavy heart in response to the regrettable events that transpired in Dublin on November 23, culminating in riots that have left our community shaken. I implore the Church to take a more resounding and active role in advocating for peace and dialogue during these tumultuous times. In the face of…
Dear Editor, Thank you for highlighting calls for Cardinal John Henry Newman to be made a Doctor of the Church [The Irish Catholic – November 23, 2023]. Cardinal Newman’s profound impact on both the Church and society, particularly in Ireland, makes him a deserving candidate for this rare ecclesiastical honour. Cardinal Newman, who was canonised…
Dear Editor, Effective Catholic education within Ireland is dependent on, amongst other things, the presence of third level theology departments who can provide training for a Catholic laity who are going to be ever more important in the 21st Century Church. In that regard, the ongoing failure to appoint a Head of Theology in Mary…
Dear Editor, I wish to commend you on your article, ‘We need a rethink on Communion Services’ [The Irish Catholic – November 9, 2023]. Your suggestion that the praying of the Liturgy of the Hours by parishioners might be a preferable option to ‘Communion Services’ is worthy of serious consideration. The revision of the divine office after…
Dear Editor, I’m in the winter of life, having trained in the 70s as a nurse/midwife. To protect my sanity I choose to watch the news headlines, only once daily. In these few moments I see images of what war does to nations and its people. I see pain and horror etched into the faces…
Dear Editor, the article discussing the role of newer Catholic communities in Ireland and their potential to reinvigorate Faith [The Irish Catholic – November 2, 2023], was most interesting. The insights shared by Fr Severino and Fr Joseph Mathew, are enlightening. It is heartening to see the rich tapestry of Catholicism flourishing in Ireland through…
Recent developments regarding the ongoing persecution of Catholics in Nicaragua, such as the release of 12 priests who were detained in Nicaragua and their subsequent expatriation to Rome, highlight the gravity of the situation in the country.
Dear Editor, I write to you today with a heart full of hope and a sense of urgency regarding the critical mission of promoting vocations to the priesthood in Ireland, particularly during this year when our bishops are fervently campaigning to nurture vocations to the diocesan priesthood. The call to serve as a priest is…
Dear Editor, I am deeply saddened by the recent escalations of violence in the Holy Land. The world witnessed the tragic events that unfolded, Hamas launching a terrorist attack on Israel, and Israel’s large-scale military action in Gaza. These events have brought immense suffering and loss to both sides – we must implore for peace.…
Ruadhán Jones