Showcase

‘The Teacher and the Spiritual Life of Children’ – Jessie Rogers

A 30 min talk by Jessie Rogers (St Patrick's College, Maynooth) which offers many insights into 'God's ways of being with children and children's ways of being with God'.

Lifted up and encouraged – National Pre-Synodal Assembly

"We feel lifted up and encouraged ...." Nicola Brady (Chair of the Synodal Group)  on the National Pre-Synodal Assembly which took place in Athlone and Clomacnoise.

An Irish pilgrimage guide to The Holy Land

Michael Kelly discusses his new book which offers historical, practical and spiritual guidance for pilgrims to the Holy Land drawing from his own repeated pilgrim experiences.

Pope Francis encourages GRACE project

Fr Eamonn Conway on how Pope Francis encouraged the educational work and spirituality of the GRACE project at a recent meeting with an Irish study group in Rome.

The Synodal Pathway – When Rhetoric meets Reality

We hear from editor Fr Eamonn Conway about the objectives of this book which include making the case for a synodal Church that is authentic and accountable.

Initial consultations and next steps on the Synodal pathway – Nicola Brady

Nicola Brady discusses the consultation and listening that has taken place at parish and diocesan level during the initial phase of the Synodal pathway and explains what happens next.

Darkness into Light – A Nation’s Response

We hear from author Joan Freeman, the founder of Pieta House, about the origins and impact of the Darkness into Light walk

Let us Dream – The Path to a Better Future – Pope Francis

Austen Ivereigh explains how he helped Pope Francis write this inspirational and practical book in which the Holy Father asks us to think of what we value and to commit in our daily life to act on those values

What is a Synodal Church? – Austen Ivereigh

Papal biography Austen Ivereigh discusses how Pope Francis is leading the Church to become a synodal Church and to be more inclusive in how we discern the path ahead.

Walking the Synodal Pathway together – Bishop Brendan Leahy

Bishop Brendan Leahy says that two primary questions for the Synodal Pathway are 'how are we getting on with one another and how are we reaching out to other people?'

Let the Oppressed Go Free – a dream for Dublin

Sculptor Timothy Schmalz and Archbishop Dermot Farrell share the dream of the full size bronze of the anti-human trafficking sculpture 'Let the Oppressed Go Free' coming to Dublin

The St Patrick that all of Europe still needs – Archbishop Dermot Farrell

At Mass on St Patrick's Day, Archbishop Farrell spoke about how the spirit of Patrick is captured by the sculpture “Let the Oppressed Go Free” by Timothy Schmalz, a model of which was present on the altar.

cAPTives – Episode 1/4 – Understanding Human Trafficking

In Episode 1 of CAPTIVES, our guests are Sr Liz Byrne (APT) and Kevin Hyland OBE an international campaigner against human trafficking

cAPTives – Preventing Human Trafficking and Supporting Victims (Ep 2 /4)

In Episode 2 of CAPTIVES, our guests are Assistant Commissioner Anne Marie Cagney and Detective Superintendent Derek Maguire

cAPTives (Ep 3/4) – Protecting Children from Human Trafficking

In Episode 3 of CAPTIVES, our guest is JP O'Sullivan from MECPATHS which is dedicated to protecting children from trafficking with a focus on the hospitality and services sectors

cAPTives (ep 4/4) – Exposing Human Trafficking

In Episode 4 of CAPTIVES, our guest is Canadian sculptor Timothy Schmalz who discusses his anti-trafficking sculpture called 'Let the Oppressed Go Free'. 

The Church response to the war in Ukraine

Bishop Brendan Leahy and Papal biographer and journalist Austen Ivereigh reflect on the Church's response to the war in Ukraine

Listening is key to the Synodal pathway – Bishop Nulty

Bishop Denis Nulty affirms that listening to people's experience of faith and Church at local level is a key first step on the Synodal pathway.

Post COVID renewal – Charlotte Vard and Fr David Vard

Charlotte Vard, a youth worker in Newbridge Parish, and her brother Fr David Vard discuss the opportunity for renewal as we emerge from COVID restrictions.

Praying for Peace in Ukraine – Bishop Denis Nulty

Bishop Denis Nulty joins with Pope Francis in asking people to make Ash Wednesday and Lent a special time of prayer for peace in Ukraine and the world 

Pope Francis to bless new anti-human trafficking sculpture by Tim Schmalz

This Sunday Pope Francis will bless a 6ft scale model of a new sculpture by Tim Schmalz - 'Let the Oppressed Go Free' - ahead of the Feast of St Bakhita on 8th February, who is the patron saint of the anti-human trafficking movement.

Archbishop Eamon Martin speaks about the Irish Synodal Pathway

"So I invite you to join us on this Synodal journey of discovery. Discovering what the Holy Spirit is saying to the Church in Ireland at this time" - Archbishop Eamon Martin

How to make a St Brigid’s Cross

A step by step demonstration of how to make a St Brigid's Cross. Recorded in Kildare Town at Feile Bride 2013.

Working towards a new and inclusive church in Cashel and Emly

'Seeds of Hope' the pastoral plan for Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly was launched in Holycross Abbey with a call for a more inclusive Church.

Cashel & Emly to launch ‘Seeds of Hope’ pastoral plan

The 'Seeds of Hope' pastoral plan is intended to bring about a Church that will better serve the people and communities of the Archdiocese of Cashel & Emly

All or Nothing – Sr Clare Crockett

All or Nothing tells the story of Sr Clare Crockett, a native of Derry, who was killed in the Ecuador earthquake on 16th April 2016. Her life continues to inspire a new generation.

All Hallows 2021 Jubilee Celebrations – Garry O’Sullivan

Garry O'Sullivan, Chair of the All Hallows Trust, welcomes and congratulates those gathered in person for the 2021 Jubilee and those following online.

All Hallows 2021 Jubilee Celebrations – Hubert O’Reilly

Hubert O'Reilly (All Hallows Association) recalls five notable priests ordained in All Hallows who served in America, Australia, Scotland and New Zealand 

All Hallows 2021 Jubilee Mass – Homily

Golden Jubilarian Fr Larry White reflects on the journey of the class of 1971 through All Hallows and the ongoing need for renewal in the Church.  

We must develop a listening ear – Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly

Homily by Archbishop Kieran O'Reilly at Mass broadcast live by iCatholic on RTE NEWS channel on 4th July 2012 from MIC Thurles

KandLe Confirmation Virtual Retreat 2021

Fr David Vard and his sister Charlotte visit their old primary school and then reflect with Hazel on their respective faith journeys

The Pathway to the Synod – Bishop Brendan Leahy

"What does God want for us now?" Bishop Brendan Leahy explains to Wendy how the Irish Bishops are inviting submissions about the pathway to the National Synod

Coping with COVID crisis and re-opening Churches – Archbishop Eamon Martin

"We felt we had enough then... " Archbishop Eamon Martin shares his reaction to learning that it is now a criminal offence to lead or gather for public worship in the Republic 

Caring for ‘our fragile peace’ – Archbishop Eamon Martin

Archbishop Eamon Martin talks to Wendy about the recent letter from Church Leaders calling for unified political response to address violence and community tensions in NI

This past 12 months has changed the face of parish for all of us – Bishop Nulty

It is good for us to ask what we understand by parish now ... ?" Homily by Bishop Denis Nulty at the Chrism Mass in Carlow Cathedral

Pope Francis in Iraq a sign of hope

Davide Barbieri (Aid to the Church in Need) talks to Wendy about recent Papal trip to Iraq and how ACN is helping Christians there to rebuild their Churches, schools and homes.

Trócaire Lenten Appeal 2021 – This Lent is different

The annual Trócaire Lenten appeal has been running for nearly 50 years and while this Lent is different the call to charity remains

Lent 2021 Parish Talk – Caoimhe de Barra, Trócaire CEO

Caoimhe de Barra shares her reflections on the 2021 Trócaire Lenten appeal which highlights the impact of conflict on people's lives in South Sudan

Lent 2021 – Message from Bishop Denis Nulty

As we begin the season of Lent, Bishop Denis Nulty offers us all a reflection on this season of grace which invites us to return to the Lord.

Dying with Dignity Bill 2020 – Submission by the Irish Catholic Bishops

Bishop Kevin Doran, Chair of the Council for Life, outlines the submission of the Irish Catholic Bishops to the Dying with Dignity Bill 2020

Waiting in Hope – Bishop Denis Nulty Advent 2020

Address given by Bishop Denis Nulty at the at 'Waiting in Hope" liturgy which took place in Carlow Cathedral on 1st Sunday of Advent 2020

Celebrating Christmas 2020 – Archbishop Eamon Martin

As the Advent season begins, Archbishop Eamon Martin reflects on the great desire that people have to return to Church to celebrate Christmas. 

Week of Witness for Persecuted Christians – Archbishop Eamon Martin

Archbishop Eamon Martin reflects on how Red Wednesday and the Week of Witness is helping to raise awareness of the Persecuted Church.

Exploring Christus Vivit – Making room for the Young Church

Editor Gerard Gallagher explains how 'Exploring Christus Vivit' features an international group of writers examining key themes in Pope Francis' 2019 apostolic exhortation

Understanding the Mass – Ep 1 – The Sanctuary

This series exploring all aspects of the Mass begins with looking at the various parts of the Sanctuary.  Produced by the Knights of St Columbanus

Understanding the Mass – Ep 2 – Priests’ Vestments

In this episode Caitlin and Dermot ask Fr. Michael about the vestments worn by the Priests and how they relate to the Liturgical calendar. 

Understanding the Mass – Ep 3 – Our Posture at Mass

In this episode, Caitlin and Dermot ask Fr. Michael to explain the times when we kneel, stand and sit during the Mass.  

Understanding the Mass – Ep 4 – Introductory Rites

In this episode Caitlin and Dermot ask Fr. Michael about the significance of the Introductory Rites at the beginning of Mass

Understanding the Mass – Ep 5 – Liturgy of the Word

In this episode Caitlin and Dermot ask Fr. Michael about the Liturgy of the Word when we listen to the Word of God proclaimed.

Understanding the Mass – Ep 6 – Liturgy of the Word (2)

In this episode Caitlin and Dermot find out more about the Liturgy of the Word in conversation with Fr Michael Sheehan.

Understanding the Mass – Ep 7 – Liturgy of the Eucharist

In this episode Caitlin and Dermot hear about the significance of the various elements within the Liturgy of the Eucharist

End of Life Care – Bishop Kevin Doran

Bishop Kevin Doran reflects on the recent Vatican document 'The Good Samaritan' on caring for people who are suffering, especially those with critical or terminal illnesses.

The Return of Post Primary Schools – Clare Ryan (CEIST)

Clare Ryan, CEO of CEIST, reflects on the return of Post Primary Schools and the importance and challenge of building community in these times

Celebrating Sacraments of Initiation during Covid

Maeve Mahon discusses how parishes are celebrating First Communion and Confirmation within the necessary Covid restrictions 

Episcopal Ordination of Bishop Paul Dempsey – Highlights

Highlights from the Episcopal Ordination of Bishop Paul Dempsey as Bishop of Achonry that took place in Ballaghaderren on 30th August 2020

Let us begin …. Bishop Paul Dempsey

Bishop Paul reflects on how together the Diocese of Achonry might respond to the Gospel call contained in his Episcopal motto - "Duc in Altum" - put out into the deep (Lk 5:4)

The Return to Primary Schools – Seamus Mulconry (CPSMA)

Seamus Mulconry, Sec. Gen of CPSMA, reflects on the return of Primary Schools and the great preparation undertaken by school communities. 

“It is about call and response” – Bishop Elect Paul Dempsey

Bishop Elect Paul Dempsey on responding to the call to become Bishop of Achonry.  iCatholic will livestream the Episcopal Ordination on 30th Aug at 3pm

Come to the Table of the Lord (1/3)

In this three part series, Eleanor and Johanna along with Fr Chris help children prepare to celebrate Reconciliation and Holy Communion for the first time.

Come to the Table of the Lord – Lesson Two

In this second lesson for those preparing for Holy Communion, Eleanor and Johanna along with Fr Chris explain more about the different parts of  the Mass.

Come to the Table of the Lord – Lesson Three

In this final lesson, Eleanor and Johanna along with Fr Chris explain how to prepare and practice for receiving Holy Communion for the first time.

Come Holy Spirit (3/3) – Preparing for Confirmation

In this final episode, Eleanor and Johanna look at choosing Confirmation names and sponsors and the Confirmation ceremony itself

Come Holy Spirit (2/3) – Preparing for Confirmation

In this second episode, Eleanor and Johanna look at the seven gifts and the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit

Come Holy Spirit (1/3) – Preparing for Confirmation

In this first episode, Eleanor and Johanna focus on the Holy Spirit and the difference it makes in our lives.

Come to me all you who labour and overburdened …

In his reflection on the Gospel passage Matthew 11:25-30, Bishop-Elect Paul Dempsey reflects on how his family coped with the burden of losing their mother and the comfort that comes from our Christian faith

Adoremus 2020 – Brendan Cleary

The title of Brendan Cleary's talk for Adoremus 2020 - the National Eucharistic Congress  is Eucharistic Adoration: "Lord that I may see"

Adoremus 2020 – Rosary

Rosary for Adoremus 2020 - the National Eucharistic Congress - led by Archbishop Eamon Martin, Primate of All Ireland

Adoremus 2020 – John Howard

Second talk at Adoremus 2020 - the National Eucharistic Congress - is by John Howard titled 'Mission and Calling

Adoremus 2020 – Bishop Kevin Doran

Bishop Kevin Doran introduces Adormeus 2020 the National Eucharistic Congress with a talk titled "All my springs are in you" (Ps 87:7)

Adoremus 2020 -Sr Virginia Joy

The title of Sr Virginia Joy's talk to  Adoremus 2020 - the National Eucharistic Congress - is "The Eucharist: Proof of God's great love for us"

Adoremus 2020 – Antoinette Moynihan

The title of Antoinette Moynihan's talk for Adoremus 2020 - the National Eucharistic Congress - is "Children of the Eucharist"

Adoremus 2020 – Adoration

The Franciscan Sisters of the Renewal lead us at Adoration for Adoremus 2020 the National Eucharistic Congress (20/21 June 2020)

Adoremus 2020 – Final Prayer (Saturday)

Brendan Cleary offers a final prayer and thanks as day one of the online National Eucharistic Congress concludes ... 

Adoremus 2020 – promo

Adoremus 2020 - the National Eucharistic Congress which takes place 20 - 21 June 2020 can be followed on-line here on iCatholic.ie

2020 KandLe Pilgrimage to Knock on-line

Bishop Denis extends an invitation to join the Kandle Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine on Trinity Sunday, 7th June. The ceremonies begin at 2.30pm via knockshrine.ie 

Memories of my ordination – Fr David Vard

As the Church marks Vocations Sunday 2020, Fr David recalls his memories of the ordination ceremony in 2017 when he became the youngest priest in Ireland.

How could nails hold God to a Cross?

In his homily on Divine Mercy Sunday, Fr John Harris OP quoted St Catherine of Siena saying it was love that held our Lord to the Cross

Being Church online for one another

Bishop Denis Nulty on the challenge of connecting with one another in these difficult times and celebrating Holy Week at home

I thank you for all your sacrifices these special days – Bishop Nulty

Full recording of the service of Consecration of Ireland to the Immaculate Heart of Mary from Carlow Cathedral

Consecrating Ireland to the Immaculate Heart of Mary

Archbishop Eamon Martin talks to iCatholic about how the Irish Church is coming together spiritually and digitally during this coronavirus pandemic

Lighting a candle for your intentions

Conscious of the people who cannot visit the Church at this time, Rathangan Parish recorded candles being lit for your intentions.

Supporting over 2,800 Primary Schools – CPSMA

Seamus Mulconry explains how Boards of Management are supported by the Catholic Primary Schools Management Association.

Inclusion of Students of Different Beliefs in Catholic Secondary Schools

Dr Aiveen Mullally (Marino Institute of Education) talks to Kate Liffey about the recently revised guidelines produced by the JMB

New Specification for Junior Cycle RE – Dr Amalee Meehan

Dr Amalee Meehan (DCU) talks to Kate Liffey about the implications for Catholic Schools of the new specification for Junior Cycle RE

ACN Persecuted and Forgotten Report 2019

Michael Kinsella introduces this major global report on the scale of Christian persecution which is produced biannually by Aid to the Church in Need.

Honouring the Martyrs of Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

This short film records how the magnificent new statue of St Oliver Plunkett in Armagh Cathedral  honours all those persecuted for their faith.

Ashley Bratcher in conversation with Wendy Grace

Wendy Grace interviewed Ashley Bratcher, the star of the UNPLANNED movie on the stage of the Pro Life Campaign 2019 National Conference

ACN Week of Witness 2019 (Promo)

A short promo for Aid to the Church in Need's Week of Witness (25 Nov - 1 Dec) in support of all who are persecuted for their faith.

Responding to the Removal of the Right to Life in NI

Eilís Mulroy from the Pro Life Campaign on responding to the removal of explicit legal protection for the unborn child up to 28 weeks of pregnancy in Northern Ireland

ACN Week of Witness 2019

Michael Kinsella invites people to stand in solidarity with the persecuted and suffering Church during the Week of Witness (25 Nov - 1 Dec).

Preview of Pro Life Campaign National Conference 2019

Hear about the 2019 Conference (2nd Nov) which will feature a screening of the Unplanned movie and a keynote address from the lead actress Ashley Bratcher.

Revitalizing the Catholic character of Irish schools

Hear about how K&L Diocese has partnered with the University of Notre Dame in undertaking a 'School Culture Initiative'.

Reform of Junior Cycle RE – Dr Audrey Doyle

Dr Doyle unpacks the rationale behind the recent reform of the Junior Cycle RE specification and the implications for Catholic Schools  

What is Religious Education? – Dr Gareth Byrne

Dr Byrne explains how all students can do Religious Education from their own perspective which includes students who are practising Catholics

Bishop Brendan Leahy welcomes REtv

Bishop Brendan Leahy welcomes REtv as a space for dialogue about religious education and the values and beliefs that define catholic schools.

The message of Maximum Illud for missionaries in 2019

This year's Extraordinary Mission Month celebrated a key Papal document  in the evolution of the Church’s missionary work issued in 1919. 

Review of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE)

Kate Liffey takes the guest chair on REtv to discuss the review of RSE being undertaken by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA)

Mater Dei Centre for Catholic Education (MDCCE)

Dr Gareth Byrne explains the work of the MDCCE and outlines some of their research work on catholic education and adult faith formation.

World Mission Sunday 2019

The Pontifical Mission Society for which we collect on Mission Sunday is the Pope's official charity for overseas mission.

Children’s Day of Mission Prayer 2019

Follow along with the '‘Together We Are Mission’ prayer service that all our schools are invited to celebrate on 11th Oct 2019.  

The Extraordinary Month of Mission explained

Julieann Moran from World Missions Ireland explains why this October is an Extraordinary Mission Month and what resources are available to schools and parishes.

Baptised and Sent – EMM 2019

The Holy Father has announced October 2019 as the Extraordinary Month of Mission (EMM2019). It will be a special month of prayer and action!

Season of Creation 2019 – Jane Mellett

"I think we all need to pray that our world leaders are courageous enough to make this happen" Jane Mellett discusses the call for climate action at the UN

Season of Creation 2019

Lorna Gold and Fr Dermot Lane discuss the importance of the Season of Creation for parishes and the spirituality that flows through 'Laudato Si' 

Introduction of Abortion in NI ‘reprehensible’ – Baroness O’Loan

Baroness Nuala O'Loan describes the introduction of abortion into Northern Ireland via a Westminster Bill as 'reprehensible' and 'contemptuous' of the people of NI who have the right to make their own law

Archbishop Eamon Martin criticises change to NI Abortion law

Archbishop Eamon expresses his concern at how the Executive Formation Bill was "essentially hijacked" thereby undermining the whole concept of devolution.

Saints Louis and Zélie Martin – Archbishop Eamon Martin

Archbishop Eamon Martin reflects on how the first married couple to be canonised together are a model for parents raising children in the faith.

Affirming the sanctity of all human life – Archbishop Eamon Martin

At the 2019 Rally for Life, Archbishop Eamon stated that it was as important as ever to affirm the sanctity of all human life.

Diocese of Cork and Ross welcomes Bishop Fintan Gavin

Watch highlights of the Episcopal Ordination of Fintan Gavin which took place in Cork on 30th June 2019.

“The mission of the Church is ….” Bishop Fintan Gavin

After his ordination as Bishop of Cork and Ross, Bishop Fintan said "... the mission of the Church is to go beyond itself ... going towards the last, the lost and least among us ... "

Ceiliúradh Cois Life – Elma Walsh

Watch the full keynote address by Elma Walsh, the mother of the inspirational Donal Walsh, at the 2019 Dinner for Pro Life Education

Cork and Ross Episcopal Ordination livestream

Bishop Elect Fintan Gavin reflects on his move to Cork & Ross Diocese and explains how the ordination ceremony this Sunday can be watched live on-line.

Ballincollig Youth Choir singing at Episcopal Ordination

John Casey looks forward to the choir performing his composition 'Shout for Joy' at the Episcopal Ordination of Fintan Gavin this Sunday.

‘Shout for Joy’ – Ballinacollig Youth Choir

Ballincollig Youth Choir will perform this song at the Episcopal Ordination of Fr Fintan Gavin in Cork Cathedral on 30th June.

The Call to Priesthood – Shane Costello

Shane Costello, who was ordained a deacon for Tuam Archdiocese on Ascension Sunday, talked to us back in 2015 about his vocation journey.

Praying for Suffering Christians on Good Friday 2019

Parishioners were invited to wear red clothing at the Stations of the Cross on Good Friday in Navan in solidarity with persecuted Christians.

Mullingar Cathedral Choristers

What is it like to be a chorister... ... we hear about joining up and getting started ... the value of practice ... the satisfaction of making Mass special for others ... 

Sunday Mass Digging Deeper (Part 4)

In the final part of this four part series exploring the Mass, Julie Kavanagh and Fr David Vard reflect on the Concluding Rites of the Mass.

Sunday Mass Digging Deeper (Part 3)

In the third part of this four part series exploring the Mass, Julie Kavanagh and Fr David Vard reflect on the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Sunday Mass Digging Deeper (Part 2)

In the second part of this four part series exploring the Mass, Julie Kavanagh and Fr David Vard reflect on the Liturgy of the Word.

St Patrick’s Breastplate – As I arise today …

As I arise today…. a beautiful visual reflection with words from St Patrick's Breastplate. Video from Salesians

Sunday Mass Digging Deeper (Part 1)

Julie Kavanagh and Fr David Vard present a new four part series on the Mass, starting with exploring the Introductory Rites

Castlerea Community School – All Ireland Winners 2019

Castlerea Community School were the winners of the 2019 All Ireland Schools Public Speaking Competition organised by the Order of the Knights of St Columbanus.

Killina Presentation School Tullamore – All Ireland Finals 2019

Killina were joint runners up in the 2019 All Ireland Schools Public Speaking Competition organised by the Knights of St Columbanus.

St Joseph’s College Garbally – All Ireland Finals 2019

Garbally were joint runners up in the 2019 All Ireland Schools Public Speaking Competition organised by the Knights of St Columbanus.

Sunday Mass – Digging Deeper

Bishop Denis Nulty invites people to follow this Lenten catechetical programme on the Sunday Mass, the source and summit of the Christian life. 

Vatican Meeting on the Protection of Minors – Michael Kelly

Michael Kelly reviews the recent Vatican meeting, how it was reported in the media and the address by veteran Vatican journalist Valentina Alazraki..

NMH advert rules out conscientious objection to abortion

Ronan Mullen and Michael Kelly on the recent recruitment advert for the National Maternity Hospital which left no room for conscientious objection

What is needed following PBC2019 – Marie Collins

Marie Collins assesses the recent Vatican Meeting on 'The Protection of Minors in the Church' and calls for 'black and white laws' to follow.

PBC2019 – Archbishop Eamon Martin

"The powerful testimony of survivors has really brought all of us to our knees" Archbishop Martin on the Vatican meeting on Protection of Minors in the Church

Sharing the lessons of bitter experience – Archbishop Eamon Martin

Archbishop Martin says that the Vatican meeting on the 'Protection of Minors' is an opportunity to help others to avoid the past mistakes of the Irish Church.

Current Safeguarding Practice in the Irish Church

After years of work and thanks to a 'one church' approach, best safeguarding practice has become part of the culture of the Irish Church.

The need for zero tolerance and accountability – Marie Collins

"There is an international standard for child safety and that should apply no mater what part of the world the child is in" - Marie Collins

Why Pope Francis called the ‘Protection of Minors’ meeting

Papal biographer Austen Ivereigh reflects on the troubled background to this meeting and the lessons Pope Francis learned from Chile last year. 

The mission of Aid to the Church in Need

As well as re-building Churches and providing emergency relief for persecuted Christians,  ACN supports over 5,000 pastoral projects annually in 145 countries.

Aid to the Church in Need rejoices at freedom for Asia Bibi

Philipp Ozores,  ACN Secretary General, rejoices at the recent acquittal of Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian who was accused of blasphemy and had been on death row.

Cathedral Bombing in the Philippines

Michael Kinsella gives his reaction to the Philippines bombing and to the latest steps to free Asia Bibi from jail.

Seeking religious tolerance in the Philippines

A special report from Aid to the Church in Need Philippines in the wake of the recent bombing in Jolo Cathedral which killed 23 people.

Relationships and Sexuality Education Review

Kate Liffey explains her concerns about separating the ethos of Catholic schools from the delivery of RSE in Catholic Schools.

Archbishop Eamon Martin on Brexit and the Border

"We need to get our act together..." Archbishop Martin responds  to Taoiseach Leo Varadkar's remarks about the possible return to a hard border due to Brexit

Staying pro-life after introduction of abortion

Ronan Mullen and Ines Lonergan on promoting a pro-life culture now that the (unamended) abortion legislation is sadly the law in Ireland.

The message of Christmas in Northern Iraq

Archbishop Eamon Martin reflects on his recent visit to Northern Iraq where many Christians have been displaced in recent years.

Archbishop Eamon Martin Christmas Message (2018)

Archbishop Eamon offers a message of faith and hope for 2019 while acknowledging that he has mixed memories of the year gone by.

Christmas thank you from Syria to Aid to the Church in Need

A family send their thanks to all ACN supporters for helping them to rebuild their home in a historic Christian neighbourhood in Homs, Syria

Conscientious objection rights for medics

Dr Jim Carr and Dr Anthony Reilly discuss their concerns about how conscience rights for medics will be upheld in Ireland after abortion is introduced. 

A Beacon of Light amongst the Ruins

Michael Kinsella explains how Aid to the Church in Need supports Christians who live their faith in the context of persecution and suffering.

Climate Generation – Awakening to our Children’s Future

'Climate Generation' by Lorna Gold recounts her personal journey in coming to understand 'climate change' both as an activist and as a mother of two young boys.

50 years of heroism – Br Kevin Crowley

On 7th December 2018 Br Kevin Crowley received the 4th Oireachtas Human Dignity Award for ‘50 years of heroism' from the Ceann Comhairle.

ACN Religious Freedom Report 2018 – EU launch

Mairead McGuinness MEP, speaking at the launch of the ACN Religious Freedom Report 2018 at the European Parliament. 

Creating Community – WMOF2018

The village of Prosperous and the Focolare community hosted a group of Greek Catholic pilgrims from Romania for the World Meeting of Families 2018.

The counter-cultural message the Church needs to offer

Archbishop Eamon Martin on offering an often counter-cultural message to the world "in which young people drown and are being suffocated..." 

What is your greatest takeaway from Synod 2018?

Archbishop Eamon Martin - "How can I bring more of these talented, articulate, faith-filled young people into the daily life and decision-making roles within the Church at home"

“We need missionaries for life now more than ever…”

At a press briefing during #Synod2018 Archbishop Eamon Martin reflects on the way forward for the Church after the repeal of the 8th Amendment.

Helping young people in their pursuit of holiness …

Deborah Castellano Lubov, Vatican Corr for Zenit gives us an overview of #Synod2018 and how the active involvement of young people made it unique.

“I feel I have to be an ambassador for the Synod…”

Archbishop Eamon Martin says he needs "the help of our young people" to bring the experience of the joy and life at #Synod2018 home to the Irish Church.

Bringing Synod2018 back home

Archbishop Eamon Martin and Bishop Donal McKeown look forward to bringing the message and the method of the Synod back home to young people.

Insights from Synod 2018

Archbishop Eamon Martin shares how the Synod has heard about the challenges facing young people around the world.

Hearing from Youth Auditors at Synod 2018

Jonathan Lewis from USA and Percival Holt from India reflect on their experience of attending Synod 2018

“I will not be silent ….” – Dr Kirsten Fuller

Dr Kirsten Fuller speaking at 'Freedom of Conscience' Rally outside Dáil Éireann (17/10/2018) as abortion legislation being debated.

Learning from David versus Goliath – Kristan Hawkins

Keynote address at the Pro Life Campaign 2018 Conference from Kristan Hawkins (President of Students for Life of America).

Children’s Day of Mission Prayer 2018

Watch the full prayer service that took place in St Ronan's Primary School, Newry on 12th October 2018.

Becoming Pope Francis – Trailer

Trailer for our 20 minute documentary in we explore how Pope Francis has stayed faithful to his dream of a church ready to go out onto the streets.

WMOF2018 – Highlights from the RDS

ICYMI we look back over the three days of the Pastoral Congress at the World Meeting of Families 2018 in the RDS, Dublin.

Altar Servers Club – Naas Parish

In this video shown at WMOF2018, we get a glimpse into the social and spiritual sides of the Altar Servers Club in Naas Parish.

Our Common Home garden at WMOF2018

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle blessing the Our Common Home garden at the World Meeting of Families 2018

Everybody’s Icon

This video on the writing of the WMOF Icon of the Holy Family was shown at the RDS and the Phoenix Park during WMOF2018.

Give Them Me

This video which shows the hosts being prepared for the Papal Mass by the Redemptoristine Sisters was screened in the Phoenix Park. 

The Penal Cross at the Papal Mass

Fr Damian McNeice shows us the Penal Cross dating from 1763 which was on the altar at the Papal Mass in the Phoenix Park.

WMOF2018 – Go Forth in Hope

In this reflection filmed and shown at the WMOF2018 in the RDS, we hear about the outreach ministry of various groups at WMOf2018.

WMOF2018 – Day Two Highlights from the RDS

A range of reflections from speakers and pilgrims attending the World Meeting of Families 2018 on Thursday in the RDS

Love Lights

In this reflection filmed and shown at the WMOF2018 in the RDS, pilgrims share what hinders and helps family life to flourish.

WMOF2018 – Day One Highlights

This report from Day One (Wed) of the World Meeting of Families 2018  was shown in main arena in the RDS on Thursday.

Designing a Vestment for Pope Francis – Jane Boland

Jane Boland (11), the winner of this Society of Missionary Children competition will greet Pope Francis at Dublin airport.

Milltown Memories – Pope Francis in Ireland in 1980

Fr Michael O'Sullivan SJ recalls meeting the future Pope in Dublin in 1980 and reflects on how challenging the preceding years were for the then Fr Bergoglio.

Becoming Pope Francis

In this 20 minute documentary, we explore how Pope Francis has stayed faithful to his dream of a church ready to go out onto the streets.

Pope Francis on the ‘throw-away’ culture – Cardinal Tagle

The full talk from Cardinal Tagle at World Meeting of Families 2018 entitled Choose Life: Pope Francis on the 'throw-away' culture 

Married 74 years and more

A beautiful video testimony from one of Ireland's longest married couples which was shown at the World Meeting of  Families

Hopes and Dreams – WMOF2018 Day One

Hopes and Dreams' video was shown at the start of the testimonies in the main arena of the RDS on Day One of the World Meeting of Families 2018

‘I am excited at the thought of returning to Ireland!’ – Pope Francis 

Video Message for Pope Francis for the opening of the ninth World Meeting of Families (21 Aug 2018) shown at the opening ceremony in the RDS

“So what is different about a Papal Mass?”

Fr Damien McNeice reflects on the upcoming Final Mass of the World Meeting of Families 2018 which will take place on 26 Aug in the Phoenix Park.