Church

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.

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.

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.

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 

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

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 – 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

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.

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.

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)

“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

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.

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

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.

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.

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).

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. 

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!

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.

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 ... "

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.

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.

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..

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

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

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.

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. 

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..." 

“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.

“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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Fáilte Pope Francis

This publication from Columba Books arose from a competition for children to draw a picture and write a letter of welcome addressed to Pope Francis.

The raising of Jairus’ daughter – WMOF2018 Icon

Beautiful description by Iconographer Mihai Cucu of a panel from the Icon of the Holy Family which is the Gospel reading for this Sunday. 

Say No to Repeal of 8th – Archbishop Eamon Martin

Archbishop Eamon Martin invites voters to think of two lives and to say  ‘no’ to the repeal of the Eighth Amendment in the referendum on 25th May

Answering the Call – WMOF2018

Philip Green explains how he came to volunteer at the World Meeting of Families 2018 and about helping to run the call centre.

The Tool of Forgiveness – Stories from Siberia (Ep 8)

Fr Michael Shields, who has ministered in Siberia for 26 years, shares the story of how his carpenter came to be an active parishioner. 

Living with Suffering – Stories from Siberia (Ep 7)

Fr Michael Shields, who has ministered in Siberia for 26 years, shares how he learned that his call was not to 'fix' but to live with the suffering.

From Fear to Joy – Stories from Siberia (Ep 6)

Fr Michael Shields, who has ministered in Siberia for 26 years, shares how he overcame his fear to answer the call 'to go pray in the camps'.

Life in their Hands – Archbishop Eamon Martin

In his message for the World Day of the Sick 2018, Archbishop Martin highlights the right to freedom of conscience for all health workers.

Honouring the martyrs of Algeria (1994 – 1996)

As the Vatican (26 Jan 2018) formally honours martyrs of Algeria, watch back our interview with Sr Yvonne Gera on her firsthand memories of the Monks of Tibhirine.

Luda : Lessons in Love – Stories from Siberia (Ep 5)

Fr Michael Shields, who has ministered in Siberia for 26 years, shares Luda's unforgettable lesson of loving those who persecute you.

To Forgive is Life – Stories from Siberia (Ep 4)

Fr Michael Shields, who has ministered in Siberia for twenty-six years, shares how Gulag survivors explained to him that forgiveness kept them alive.

St Joseph’s Mens Group – Stories from Siberia (Ep 3)

Fr Michael Shields, who has ministered in Siberia for twenty-six years, on how to heal what Pope Benedict described as the 'father wound' in our society.

Every child is a gift from God – Stories from Siberia (Ep 2)

Fr Michael Shields, who has ministered in Siberia for twenty-six years, on supporting single mothers with compassion and practical charity.

You can be a Catholic anywhere – Stories from Siberia (Ep 1)

Fr Michael Shields, who has ministered in Siberia for over twenty years, reflects on how we belong to the whole Church no matter where we are.

WMOF Icon of the Holy Family – Mihai Cucu

Iconographer Mihai Cucu discusses the creation of the Holy Family Icon for WMOF2018 and how icons offer an unique perspective for contemplating the divine.

How we killed God – David Quinn

David Quinn discusses his new book which brings together 70 of his newspaper columns charting nearly a quarter of a century of tumultuous change in Irish society.

Children’s Family Album – WMOF2018

Julieann Moran explains about this art exhibition on family life which will be displayed at the World Meeting of Families in August 2018.

Red Wednesday 2017 – Armagh Cathedral

Address by Archbishop Eamon Martin at prayer service in Armagh Cathedral to mark Red Wednesday offering support to persecuted Christians around the world.

Red Wednesday – 22nd Nov 2017

Stand in solidarity with persecuted Christians around the world on Red Wednesday (22nd Nov) by wearing RED and lighting churches RED.

Supporting Christians in Aleppo – Sr Annie

Sr Annie Demerjian describes her ministry to the greatly depleted Christian community who have remained in the war-torn Syrian city of Aleppo.

Persecuted and Forgotten 2015 -2017

John Newton introduces this global report on Christians oppressed for their Faith and speaks about the Red Wednesday initiative on 22nd Nov 2017. 

National Day of Prayer for Children 2017

Full recording of the service from Carlow Cathedral on 13th October 2017 including the balloon launch led by Bishop Nulty.

National Day of Prayer for Children 2017 – Livestream

On Friday Oct 13th at 12 noon, iCatholic will livestream the Children Helping Children prayer service from Carlow Cathedral.  All are invited to join us.

WMOF2018 Icon of the Holy Family – unveiling

Archbishop Diarmuid Martin anointed and unveiled this Icon on 21 August 2017 in Knock.  It will travel to every diocese in Ireland ahead of WMOF2018.

Aid to the Church in Need – Diocese of Maiduguri, Nigeria

Bishop Oliver Doeme discusses how his diocese has coped with attacks by Boko Haram in recent years and how it has tested his faith.

Ordination of David Vard – I arise today …

Highlights from the ordination of David Vard (K&L) in Newbridge on 25 June 2017 to accompaniment of the 'The Deer's Cry'. 

Ordination of David Vard – Homily by Bishop Nulty

The homily by Bishop Denis Nulty (Diocese of Kildare & Leighlin) at the ordination of David Vard in Newbridge on 25th June 2017.

Fortify Youth Conference – Fr Brendan Kilcoyne

Fr Brendan Kilcoyne gives a warm, witty and powerful address about youth ministry at the Fortify Conference on 10th June 2017.

Vocations Sunday 2017 – Bishop Kevin Doran

Bishop Kevin Doran, Bishop of Elphin, shares a message on Vocations and Discipleship for Vocations Sunday 2017.

Fr Frans Van der Lugt SJ: Man of Peace and Bridgebuilder

In honour of third anniversary of Fr Frans who lived and worked in Syria for fifty years and was killed in Homs on 7th April 2014.

Weltfamilientreffen 2018

Alle drei Jahren ruft die Kirche zum größten internationalen Familientreffen der Welt auf. 2018 findet das Treffen in Dublin, in Irland, statt.

The apostolate of the ear

Bishop Denis Nulty shares how Pope Francis was a model of a listening leader at his 2 hour meeting with all the Irish Bishops during their recent Ad Limina visit.

Religious Freedom – protecting the role of conscience in society

Dr John Newton discusses the Ashers bakery case in the context of the Religious Freedom in the World report 2016 produced by Aid to the Church in Need.

Religious Freedom in the World 2014 – 2016

Full address by Dr John Newton at the recent launch in Newry of this major international study by Aid to the Church in Need.

Religious Freedom in the World report 2014 – 2016

Interview with Bishop John McAreavey and Dr John Newton (ACN UK) at recent launch in Newry of this major report by Aid to the Church in Need

Faith Based Schools in a Pluralist Society – Archbishop D Martin

A reflection from Archbishop Diarmuid Martin at the National Education Conference organised by The Irish Catholic

World Priest Global Rosary Relay

Marion Mulhall discusses the great success of the Global Rosary Relay which takes place in participating shrines in 50+ countries.

World Priest Global Rosary Relay

Marion Mulhall discusses the inspiration that led her to set up World Priest and the great success of the Global Rosary Relay

Pontifical Irish College Rome – Past, Present and Future

A tour through the history of the College which dates back to 1628 along with an overview of the formation programme that the seminarians follow.

Final Mass at World Youth Day 2016

Wendy Grace reports for Aid to the Church in Need on the final Mass at World Youth Day 2016 in Krakow celebrated by Pope Francis.

Prayer Vigil at World Youth Day 2016

Wendy Grace reports for Aid to the Church in Need on the Prayer Vigil at World Youth Day 2016 attended by over 1 million pilgrims.

Way of the Cross at World Youth Day 2016

Wendy Grace reports on the powerful Way of the Cross service at WYD 2016 which featured various church groups including Aid to the Church in Need.

Let’s Be One

Learn about the inspirational 'Let's Be One' campaign organised by Aid to the Church in Need for World Youth Day 2016.

World Youth Day 2016 – Welcome Ceremony

Wendy Grace reports for Aid to the Church in Need on the Welcome ceremony for Pope Francis at WYD 2016 in Krakow. More to follow...

My vocation story – Rev Stephen Duffy

Rev Stephen Duffy reflects on his journey to the priesthood as he prepares for his ordination for the Diocese of Clogher on 24th July 2016.

Finding everything in giving

Bishop Liam MacDaid reflects on the life of Marion Mill and invites people to think of what a vocation to priesthood or religious life might offer them.

Can you drink this Cup? – the call to priesthood

Learn the story of Fr Donal O'Sullivan who was mortally wounded on the first day of the Battle of the Somme while administering the Last Rites on the battlefield.

Veritas Publications summer 2016

Pamela McLoughlin describes the great demand for the encyclicals of Pope Francis along with detailing recent and upcoming Veritas publications.

From Gangland to Promised Land

John Pridmore, former London gangster turned Christian, shares how God changed his life and how he now leads retreats and speaks at church events around the world.

My faith journey – Anna Keegan

Anna Keegan shares how she came to decide that her calling was to work in the Church with young people while attending World Youth Day in Canada.

Shalom World – sharing the Gospel around the world

Tina Mary Sajiv shares with us the story of Shalom World including its origins in India as Shalom TV and the future plans for their digital platform.

My vocation story – Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle

Cardinal Tagle, the Archbishop of Manila, shares how he was 'fooled' into taking a seminary entrance exam which led him to consider priesthood.

Rosary Relay – Fourth Luminous mystery

The fourth Luminous mystery of the Rosary – the Transfiguration. (Rosary Relay - 12th May 2016)

My Vocation story – Fr Nicholas Grace

Wendy Grace interviews her own brother Fr Nicholas Grace about his journey to the priesthood and his first year as a priest.

Remembering Sr Clare Crockett (1982 – 2016)

Sr Kristen Gardner shares her joyful memories of Sr Clare from their time together as Servant Sisters of the Home of the Mother.

Bishop of Derry pays tribute to Sr Clare Crockett

Bishop Donal McKeown reflects on how the joyful service of Derry native Sr Clare Crockett (1982 -2016) can serve as an inspiration to her generation.

Sr Clare Crockett RIP – a tribute

A tribute to Sr Clare Crockett (1982 - 2016) from Derry who was killed in the Ecuador earthquake on 16th April 2016.

The Genocide of Christians in the Middle East

Full address by John Pontifex, Aid to the Church in Need (UK), on how Christians are being killed and driven out of the Middle East.

Marie Collins commends Spotlight to all Catholics

Marie Collins commends all Catholics to watch Spotlight, the winner of Best picture at the 2016 Oscars, which details the cover-up of abuse in Boston.

Accord research into relationship counselling trends

Bishop Denis Nulty discusses recent research into the most common problems that couples refer to when they come to Accord for relationship counselling.

How should a Catholic think about Politics?

Bishop Kevin Doran gives a preview of this talk that he will deliver in Sligo on 23rd Feb 2016 hosted by the Iona Institute.

The suffering of Christians in Syria

John Pontifex from Aid to the Church in Need (UK) reports on recent trip to Syria where he heard first-hand of the plight of the Christian community.

Vote for Justice in 2016

Emmet Sheerin discusses the 'Vote Joseph Bloggs' video that Trocaire has released to help highlight climate justice as an election issue.

The Prodigal perfomed by Le Chéile

Full 40 minute performance of an original music piece based on the parable of The Prodigal Son performed by the group - le Cheile.

My Vocation Journey – Br Conor McDonough OP

Br Conor McDonough OP shares his vocation story and what he has gained from entering into community life with the Irish Dominicans.

Don Bosco is Alive Today – Part Nine

The staff and students of the St. John Bosco College, Kildysart, Co. Clare reflect on Don Bosco and how his life has influenced their lives today.

Pope Francis and the Future of the Family – Nuncio

Archbishop Charles Brown introduces this national conference hosted by the Irish Catholic Newspaper and the Iona Institute on 30th Jan 2016.

Don Bosco is Alive Today – Part Eight

Young people from Salesian Oratory in Malta share what the Oratory means for them today in terms of being a place of work, prayer, study and play.

Don Bosco is Alive Today – Part Seven

Students and Teachers from Salesian College in Celbridge reflect on Don Bosco’s life and their experience of Salesian Spirit and Don Bosco as a perfect friend.

Archdiocese of Dublin in 2030

Fr Gareth Byrne discusses a 2030 report for the Priests Council in the Archdiocese of Dublin which looks at future trends for many aspects of life and personnel numbers in the Archdiocese.

Don Bosco is Alive Today – Part Six

Young Salesians from Ireland and Overseas present the three elements of the Preventive System of Don Bosco: Reason, Religion and Loving Kindness, which are very important elements of the Salesian life and work.

Don Bosco is Alive Today – Part Five

Students from Heywood Community School in Ballinakill, Co. Laois reflect on Don Bosco’s story and their experience of Salesian Spirit in their school today.

Don Bosco is Alive Today – Part Four

Jordan shares his experience of how, thanks to the Salesians and Staff of “Don Bosco Care” in Dublin, his life has changed for the better.

The Priesthood

A wonderful Vocations video for Diocesan Priesthood. For further information contact your Diocesan Vocations Director or visit Vocations.ie

Promoting Vocations to the Religious Life

Margaret Cartwright discusses the need to rediscover 'story-telling' as part of vocations for the religious in Ireland and how a recent grant of €268,000 will be used.

Suffering in Syria – Fr Ziad Hilal SJ

Fr Ziad Hilal SJ who was living with Fr Frans van der Lugt S.J up to the time of his murder in Homs in 2014 discusses the on-going suffering of the Syrian people.

Remembering 1916 – Archbishop Eamon Martin

Archbishop Martin on the need to avoid a false glorification of the 1916 Easter Rising and the Battle of the Somme and the on-going need not to forget victims of violence.

2015 Christmas Message from Archbishop Eamon Martin

Archbishop Eamon Martin shares a message of hope for the coming year and prays that the Year of Mercy will convey a great sense of welcome for people.

Remembering Fr Michael Paul Gallagher SJ

A tribute to Fr Michael Paul Gallagher SJ the widely respected writer and theologian who died recently. Panel Fr Tom Casey SJ and Pat Coyle from the Jesuit Communications Office.

K&L 2015 Reach Out campaign marks the Year of Mercy

Bishop Denis Nulty, Julie Kavanagh and Fr Liam Morgan discuss the 2015 Reach Out campaign in the Diocese of Kildare & Leighlin which highlights the Year of Mercy

The Jesse Box – bringing Bible stories to life

Gerry Malone introduces the Jesse Box - an interactive tool for children designed to engage them with Bible stories of salvation supported by a number of story manuals.

On-line Advent Calendar – catholicbishops.ie

An introduction to the on-line Advent calendar that can be accessed on the Irish Bishops website by Brenda Drumm of the catholic Communications Office.

Updating of Angelus films on RTE

Roger Childs from RTE and Seamus Callaghy from KAIROS Communications discuss the recent updating of Angelus films on RTE

Prison Chaplains reflect on their ministry

Prison Chaplains Sr Margaret O'Donavon and Margaret Connaughton share how they accompany prisoners during their sentences.

News Round Up – 10th November 2015

Cathal Barry gives us a quick insight into some current news stories in The Irish Catholic and on-line.

Amnesty campaign video against Pro-Life Amendment

Cora Sherlock from the Pro-Life campaign responds to the recent Amnesty video which calls for the repeal of the 8th Amendment to the Irish Constitution.

Synod on the Family 2015 – Archbishop Diarmuid Martin

Archbishop Diarmaid Martin reflects on the progress and potential legacy of the Synod on the Family. Recorded in Rome on Oct 23rd.

Synod on the Family 2015 – Archbishop Eamon Martin

In this iCatholic report, we hear what Archbishop Eamon Martin said at the Vatican Press Conference on 21 October.

Persecuted and Forgotten? 2013 – 2015

Aid to the Church in Need has just released this global report which tells the story of the persecution of Christians around the world during the last two years.

Charlie Bird reports on the Missions

Charlie Bird reports on the work of the Pontifical Mission Society ahead of Mission Sunday for 2015 on 18th October

Mission Sunday 2015 – A Question of Faith

Fr Maurice Hogan and Jackie Pallas discuss Mission Sunday 2015 and film by Charlie Bird about the work of Irish missionaries.

Launch of ‘Report on the Missions’ by Charlie Bird

Watch address by Charlie Bird along with his full film at the launch of Mission Sunday 2015 by World Missions Ireland (WMI)

A Question of Faith – U.S. Ep 1 – 5th Oct 2015

The first episode of our new weekly half-hour 'A Question of Faith' programme which is being broadcast by CATHOLIC TV in the U.S.

‘A Question of Faith’ to be broadcast in the US

Wendy Grace chats to Fr Bob Reed of Catholic TV in Boston about our new partnership in which our 'A Question of Faith' will be broadcast in the US.

Jesuit Farm School in Rumbek, South Sudan

In this video we hear about why the Jesuits decided to establish a farm school in Rumbek, South Sudan in 2010.

A Poem for the Ploughing

Bishop Denis Nulty invites people to visit the K&L stand at the 2015 Ploughing Championships where they can vote for the 'Poem for the Ploughing'.

Loyola Secondary School, South Sudan

The recent history of South Sudan has been war and turmoil. We hear about the contribution of Loyola Wau which re-opened in 2006 after 22 years.

Honouring the Martyrs of El Salvador (1980 – 1991)

Fr Ciarán O'Nualláin OFM shares the powerful testimonies of parish catechists killed during the civil war in El Salvador along with his own experiences.

Remembering the Martyrs of Algeria (1994-1996)

Sr Yvonne Gera FMM recalls the monks of Tibhirine whose deaths were featured in the widely acclaimed 2010 film 'Des hommes et des Deux' (Of Gods and Men).