It is in excess of 300 years – three whole centuries – since the birth of Nano Nagle (April, 1718) founder of the Presentation Sisters, and yet it seems more true to say she lives in current times.  Nano initially, did not set out to found anything at all.  Her access to education and her life experience were inextricably woven ...

We are all too familiar with the existence and impact of the fast fashion industry (reflected in the prolific production and purchase of low quality clothes which need to be replaced more quickly to meet consumer demand).  This industry managed to entice us to embrace the so called ‘disposable clothing’ culture where the price of these garments never truly reflected ...

In Ireland story-telling is embedded in the culture of who we are.  As far back as we can remember there must have been story-telling and the sharing of ‘a good yarn’ in the dusk of an evening at the fire or in the coming together at the crossroads after a hard day’s work in the fields.  This seems even now ...

The genealogy of Jesus in Mathew 1:1 – 17 names only five women: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba and Mary.  For centuries people have been intrigued by the inclusion of these diverse and often unorthodox women.  This online course offered by Mount St. Anne’s Retreat and Conference Centre is an opportunity to explore their individual stories through scripture and art, and ...

You are invited to participate in an online journey from Easter to Pentecost facilitated by Gráinne Doherty. This online retreat opportunity is provided by Mount St. Anne’s Retreat and Conference Centre see: HERE    (Please note that Mount St. Anne’s is currently closed to the public due to COVID-19 restrictions). ‘Peace be with you’ (Jn 20:19): Journeying from Easter to Pentecost ...

“LAUDATO SI’, mi’ Signore” – “Praise be to you, my Lord.” These are the words that open Pope Francis’ encyclical on ecology and care for God’s creation. These words, quoting St. Francis of Assisi’s beautiful canticle, remind us that our common home is like a sister with whom we share our life and a beautiful mother who opens her arms ...

Sunday 3rd May, 2020 is the 57th World Day of Prayer for Vocations. On the 8th March this year, Pope Francis shared a message for this day.  See  Full text HERE In his message he used four key words – pain, gratitude, encouragement and praise. He said:  “I believe that today, on this 57th World Day of Prayer for Vocations, ...

Poetry Day Ireland takes place on Thursday 30 April 2020 and the theme this year is ‘There will be time’.  Whether you share a poem, read a poem, or programme your own online event, everyone is invited to join in and celebrate this day.  The fact that the theme for this day is on time could not be more apt ...

We celebrate the 5th anniversary of the publication of the Encyclical Letter:  Laudato Si   – On Care of Our Common Home  this year, on 24th May 2020.  This unique, accessible and very powerful landmark document continues to speak to our lives and the needs of our world today when we are experiencing daily, just how intimately human and planetary health are ...

I love the concept of a litany as a poetic form of ‘call and response’.  Also the fact that it is both prayer, petition and pleading but with a comforting rhythm and trust that it will be heard and heeded.  The Greek origin of the word means “entreaty” or “supplication”. In prayer and religious ritual it has such positive cogitations, ...