Church Lays out a Draft Roadmap Back to Public Masses

Lough Derg: Prior to move to the island to ensure the voice of prayer is not silent – Pages 14 & 15 The Irish SpiritMay 28th, 2020 THE NEW FREE Issue No. 3 MARIA The Birthday of NORMAL INSIDE the Church STEEN Silvester O’Flynn OFM writes on the It’s Church, but An eight-page special beautiful message of Pentecost Outsourcing the moral RESISTING TEMPTATION not as we know on spirituality today An exclusive excerpt from education of children Freedom from Evil Spirits it... Page 8 Pages 17-24 by Fr Pat Collins is dangerous Page 7 PRAYING DURING PENTECOST The Litany to Thursday, May 28, 2020 €2.00 (Stg £1.70) f The-Irish-Catholic-Newspaper L @IrishCathNews www.irishcatholic.com the Holy Spirit ....and much more! Church lays out a Ferns Faithful find safe welcome draft roadmap back to public Masses suggested that dioceses prepare ing in advance to spread partici- EXCLUSIVE short videos similar to aircraft pation in Mass across the week. Michael Kelly and safety demonstrations to assist l Devising a parish programme Chai Brady parishioners in correct behav- which will provide for people Vulnerable and older parishion- iour when returning to Mass. to come from particular town- ers will be asked to stay home This newspaper can reveal lands, station areas or housing rather than attendw Mass that options being considered estates to come to a designated under a new draft plan being for Holy Communion include Mass on a particular day, in discussed by the hierarchy The a glass screen with an opening such a way that everyone can Irish Catholic can reveal. The at hand level at all Communion come at least once every few plan aims to ensure that all distribution points or priests weeks on Sunday. l preparations are made so that wearing a transparent visor Suggesting to those who are churches are ready to move as when giving out Communion vulnerable due to old age or soon as the civil authorities to people in their seats. ill-health, that they might con- give the green light to public tinue to participate on webcam Masses. Expectations or on radio for the moment and, The 88-point programme – The document insists that if they wish, arrange for a fam- which is expected to be boiled “before there is a return to ily member to bring them Holy down to key points in com- public Masses, it will be very Communion, while observing ing days, also bans choirs and important to manage expecta- the required sanitising of hands congregational singing when tions in advance so that it is not etc. churches re-open for public necessary to turn people away”. The plan envisages Confir- Masses. Priests are asked to work mation ceremonies taking place It comes as the Government with parish councils to calculate in mid-September and advises has hinted that phase four – how many people the church that such celebrations would be when public Masses are due to can safely hold and clearly dis- conducted by the parish priest begin from July 20 – could be play this figure. The document and may have to take place in brought forward to the end of says that other key points to small groups over successive June if the virus continues to be managing expectations include: days. Fr John Carroll PP and volunteers prepare floor markings in the Church of St successfully managed. l Reminding people that the The document says that “a Alphonsus in Barntown, Co. Wexford. They are part of stringent measures In the document obtained obligation to attend Sunday return to public worship and required for a return to public Masses. by The Irish Catholic, it is also Mass is dispensed and arrang- » Continued on Page 4

DAVID QUINN HOME EDUCATION MARY KENNY Taking the nation’s With schools closed, Surely the Church can spiritual pulse under what you can do to help devise a constructive way lockdown PAGE 12 your children PAGES 31 & 33 of social distancing? PAGE 5

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Inside this week We need an army of volunteers to Baroness O’Loan criticises Fr Ron Rolheiser get our churches open for Mass What ‘faithful ime and again we see from friendship’ means the pages of the Bible that a time of crisis is also a time of ACP over ‘offensive’ statement Page 30 opportunity. Whether in the Editor’s Comment to go to the supermarket or to do any ably to force their private agendas on many individuals and families, so In a secular society, she added, story of the Israelites or in the New Chai Brady of the other things which are under the present careful process”. churches or religious groups claim- there’s a “lack of recognition” of the Testament,T God sets before his people Michael Kelly Baroness Nuala O’Loan has dubbed discussion at the moment,” she said. “Efforts at present effectively ing entitlement to special treatment spiritual “as manifest in worship a choice when it comes to every crisis: a statement by the Association of “We’ve always been able to go to demanding that churches be kept is inappropriate and unacceptable”. such as that in the Catholic Church”. to adapt and grow, or to Catholic Priests (ACP) “ill-advised” the supermarket because it’s always open, that public Masses be rein- Baroness O’Loan described the “I think for that reason those who Bairbre Cahill perish. pandemic together. This the radio. and religious on the issue, it and “offensive” after they criticised been recognised that we need to buy stated and that ‘rights’ to pray in statement as “offensive” and she are believers need to speak up and Pentecost – Human beings grow is particularly true of the For those of us with no is the norm. individuals and groups pushing for a food, the Mass and the Sacraments churches be upheld are being can- believes “those who are particularly say it wasn’t for nothing that there’s through crises and so does Church and a massive army underlying conditions or Now we are called to faster return to public Masses. for us is food for the soul. I would say vassed by individuals and groups frail or vulnerable actually won’t be a recognised right to freedom of Easter’s crowning the Church. The corona- of volunteers in every parish health concerns, we should embark on another mission The prominent human rights it’s necessary to consider whether it with their own self-serving and self- attending Mass”. religion but it’s important that we glory virus pandemic has been in the country will have to be considering how we are of safeguarding the return lawyer, former NI police ombuds- can be done and not just saying it interested agendas,” the ACP said. “It’s not the case that we’re going keep the issue of spirituality and an unprecedented time assemble and commit to best placed to help in the to public Masses. man and member of the House of can’t be done.” to force these elderly or vulnerable the right to practice your religion Page 33 for the Church. When we this project for the gradual reopening. Parish councils In the document seen Lords, Baroness O’Loan told The Irish The ACP said in a statement over Suffering people into a situation in which right at the forefront and that it’s gathered for Ash Wednes- re-opening to be a success. often complain that their by this newspaper, the Catholic that it’s not an “all or noth- the weekend said that an “obvious The group continue saying that gath- they’re at risk. not something that doesn’t matter, day on February 26, few of role is ill-defined: this bishops say that “it is ing situation”. danger” to the “careful, prudent and ering people together, especially the “It’s a situation in which we’re it’s not something that is engaged us could’ve imagined that For their own is a perfect moment for clear that re-opening the “The ability to come together to responsible approach” of Govern- elderly and those at risk, “is grossly making it possible for people to in by self-serving people, rather it’s the council to take on the we would be preparing to good,❛❛ many will pastoral life of the Church pray, to go to Mass, to receive sacrament to the coronavirus crisis are irresponsible and will lead to great come to Mass and receive the sacra- the essence of the lives of so many Books mark the feast of Pente- co-ordination of a return to will be far more challenging ments is as important as the ability groups which may seek “unreason- pain, suffering and loss of life for ments.” people in Ireland.” cost under lockdown. want to continue to public Masses by identifying institutionally than anything High thoughts in the talents and skills in the Our priests and participate in the we have been through in the the Middle Ages parishes have responded local Christian community past few months. ‘Human beings still equal’ despite referendum to the new reality with Mass via webcam or and utilising these people. justice,” he said. Pages 36 & 37 We all have our part to Rugby star: ‘We rely on Ruadhán Jones courage and vigour. on the radio” Those of us Mr Conroy added that it’s “not enough to be Notwithstanding the play, whether it is devising ❛❛ The leadership of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael right, we have a job to do now in building up a communications so that who are able must odd technical glitch, the As the bishops point out, no longer want to discuss the issues facing political movement which supports the right to liturgical life of the Church “preparing for a return to parishioners feel safe to play our part” God to lead our lives’ life of everyone”. women experiencing crisis pregnancies the public sacramental life is come back to Mass, or Managing Editor: Michael Kelly, [email protected] has moved online. But, Cathaoirleach of Ógra Aontú has said. He added that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael’s of course, the virtual has not something that priests the technical logistics of “Our biggest challenge,” Aron Hegarty Eric Miller. they write, “may be lack “Human rights are not eliminated by leadership “made clear that they had no time Northern Correspondent: Martin O’Brien, [email protected] limitations and we all can or should attempt to managing the entry and Former Irish rugby of motivation to do all that referendum majorities,” said Ben Conroy in a for even incremental measures… like a ban long for the day when do on their own”. Priests exit from churches. It is international Eric Miller Multimedia Journalists: Chai Brady, [email protected] is required on the part statement on the second anniversary of the on abortion on the grounds of disability or we will soon be able to will need to work in a daunting undertaking, has revealed that he found but not one that should of some, and unbridled abortion referendum. gender”. Róise McGagh, [email protected] gather together for Mass. consultation with the parish his Faith enriches his life enthusiasm to do everything “Two years on from the referendum all “Aontú are the only political party with As a draft document council and other volunteers overwhelm us. after his retirement from At times of great need in on the part of others. human beings are still equal in moral status. elected representatives on this island making Aron Hegarty, [email protected] prepared by the hierarchy (ideally with expertise in the sport. the Church, the power of the It needs to be clearly Those of us who believe this are on the side of the case for universal human equality.” and obtained by The medicine, health and safety, In an interview at the Newsroom: [email protected] 01 6874026 project management, events Holy Spirit has inspired us understood, however, that Irish Catholic this week weekend, Mr Miller said he planning, etc.) to ensure that to come together to take on Churches will only be able Books Editor: Peter Costello, [email protected] (see Page 8) makes clear, leaned heavily on his belief a return to public Masses is mammoth tasks. The issue to reopen for public liturgy it will be a huge task to in God once he stepped Advertising: 01 6874094 as safe as can possibly be. of safeguarding children when the proper procedures [email protected] return to public Masses. away from the professional Unfortunately, at least and vulnerable adults is one have been put in place.” And the return will be far game. Accounts: [email protected] 01 6874020 in the short- to medium- such example. Not too long Those of us who are able from business as usual “We rely on God to lead with stringent physical term, it will not be possible ago, it seemed an impossible must play our part in this Magnificat: [email protected] our lives in many ways,” distancing and hygiene for some parishioners who ask to have a safeguarding and contact our priests and the 44-year-old ex-Leinster Office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday standards here to stay. are elderly or vulnerable structure in every parish parish offices to volunteer back-row said. A lot of the Govern- to return to Mass. For their community in the country. our time and talent. We 9.30am–5.30pm ment messaging on own good, many will want Now, because laypeople must proceed with both Covid-19 has been around to continue to participate in have stepped up to work determination and patience, Great help Shop: [email protected] He said he found the the theme of being in this the Mass via webcam or on hand-in-hand with priests but it can be done. church he went to in Managing Director: Garry O’Sullivan Dublin was “a great help in terms of helping me let Annual Subscription Rates: Ireland €145. Airmail €250. Six months – €75. rugby go. ISSN 1393 - 6832 - Published by The Irish Catholic, “I find the stories, 23 Merrion Square, Dublin 2. the story of Jesus, very Printed by Webprint, Cork. compelling and very engaging. I believe things happen for a reason. 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LEGAL EXECUTIVE “Through the church [in without the care and support they need. 600 Meals for people who are homeless and each week Sheila Toher M.I.I.L.Ex Sri Lanka] that we went 1000 Food Parcels for those on the poverty threshold. to we met Nisha,” said Mr FOR EXPERT LEGAL * In contentious business, a solicitor Miller, who won 48 caps for Help Bro. Kevin continue providing ADVICE, PLEASE DO NOT may not charge fees as a percentage his country. this caring service. HESITATE TO CONTACT US. of any award or settlement. “Our Faith was a very Contact Clare Martin | Individual Giving Manager important part of it. My at 01 679 3188 or [email protected] : Bro.Kevin or Therese 018720770 69 Patrick Street, Dun Laoighre, Co. Dublin, A96 WC60 wife would say that God Pro Life Campaign, Suite 60, Clifton House, Lower Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin 2 www.hospicefoundation.ie www.homeless.ie Tel +353 1 2303266 | Web: mmce.ie | [email protected] [email protected] | 01 6629275 told her to take that child.” 4 | News || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | Comment ||5 NOW AVAILABLE Funeral restrictions causing ‘Outdoor’m never been much housework’ has its attractions because a wild garden is now Embark on a of a garden person – said to encourage nature, ‘unnecessary distress’ – priest rather concurring with birds, bees and especially you talk about the immedi- where social distancing can to each other and be present whoever described Mary Kenny butterflies. Chai Brady ate family, maybe children, be maintained” according to to go through the requiem. Igardening as ‘outside Gardens are often part of Journey of Faith The Government restriction grandchildren, brothers, sis- the Government document. “There is a fear that if we housework’. That is, chores spirituality, and, however of no more than 10 people ters, 10 doesn’t come near to Msgr Byrne said he become anyway blasé or care- done to maintain some counting my blessings and I’m trying to identify tumbledown, they prompt allowed to attend church covering it.” believes allowing 30 to 40 less that we could undo a lot kind of domestic order, showing some appreciation their different sounds now reflection. I remember an funeral services is “putting Currently as Ireland is in people attend might “cover of the good that has been rather than for any kind of of my ramshackle garden – the original tweets that aunt of mine treasuring distress on families that’s not Phase 1 of its roadmap to it”. “Safety first of course is done and nobody wants that, fulfillment. patch. So, as the lovely May long preceded Twitter: the an embroidered sampler, with Medieval But the Covid-19 necessary”, according to a return to normality as a result the order of the day, I don’t it’s going to be difficult to plot summer drew on, I’ve taken thrush, the sparrow, the hung on her kitchen wall: senior priest. of the coronavirus pandemic, think anybody would want to a way back but I think we’ve lockdown did make me to sitting and working in the blue-tit and the very special the words a little corny, but Msgr John Byrne PP of the funeral restriction is set to jeopardise safety in any way,” got to begin to think of that. aware that there are people garden. throaty call of the wood sweet and simple: “The kiss Portlaoise parish and Vicar continue until Phase 2, start- he said. “The immediate issue that who have no gardens, And with no airplanes pigeon. Then, above all, the of the sun for pardon/The Irish Pilgrims ing on June 8. perhaps could be relieved and no access to a garden. flying overhead, and very joyful blackbird. song of the birds for mirth/ General of the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin told this At that point a slightly Size somewhat is the restriction to These months have been little traffic on the nearby One is nearer God’s heart in paper that although there’s no larger number of people are Given the size of many Requiem Mass, I think there really tough for those roads, how wondrous Wild a garden/Than anywhere else great time to lose a loved one, allowed to attend funerals churches, he said the current maybe isn’t the medical or who live in apartments, the garden birdsong has My garden is wild, and not at on earth.” “this is a particularly distress- but it will still be restricted to restriction is not “a reason- scientific knowledge behind or whose homes have no become! The birdies have all like the exquisite pictures I’ve been given the opportunity to be grateful ing time”. “immediate family and close able figure for all churches”. that decision to justify it con- garden attached. been singing loud and clear, I’ve seen of friends’ gardens for my garden. Perhaps I “Your heart would go out to friends and limited to a max- “Families can still maintain tinuing. I think emotionally, I’d never given much in full-throated musical posted on social media, thought to those without voice. Is it the first time or on TV programmes like may even take the plunge families. A very high propor- imum number of mourners social distance and respect all that will at least lessen the gardens, but the lockdown in my life that I’ve really BloomwithRTÉ. Yet maybe and attend to a little light tion of families, even when for a limited period of time of those rules but be present impact of this terrible time.” jolted me into a sense of listened to birdsong? I’m on trend, just the same, ‘outdoor housework’. The blackbird: ‘joyful’. Would you be-leaf that! l Dominic Cummings, Boris ‘There is no Church Johnson’s ‘Svengali’ was the full focus of media attention this without community’ week after it was disclosed that he appeared to have broken the lockdown rules he was enjoined says Bishop Farrell to uphold. As it happens, his wife, with each other. Mary Wakefield [pictured], has quite Ruadhán Jones “Through Baptism recently become a Catholic. She Bishop Dermot Farrell of and the Eucharist we are says her husband is “a very kind Ossory said Catholics look incorporated into Christ.” man”; he may need some dedicated forward to the day they “can Bishop Farrell wrote that prayers forthwith to rescue him from attend in person, and receive becoming one in Christ is his present difficulties… sacramentally again” and a long-term process which lamented the “loss of the requires the Sacraments. community dimension of our Faith” due to the suspension Sacraments of public Masses. “The Sacraments, especially In his pastoral letter on the Eucharist, are food for The Ascension Sunday, Bishop day-to-day lives,” he wrote. Farrell said that people are “As we could not receive “grateful for the televised these Sacraments during Whether atoning for sins, praying for an end celebrations”. However, the pandemic, we were Dominicans not being nourished and to the black death or seeking salvation, Irish he pointed out they can’t replace Catholics’ need “to strengthened by them in the Seek Truth pilgrims set out on religious pathways for be in communion with each usual way.” …find beauty! many reasons. Join Dr Louise Nugent as she other, and in communion Bishop Farrell noted l Muslims, who adhere strongly to their for Ramadan prayer in East Java, that, from the beginning, uncovers the goals and destinations of these with their Lord”. Friday mosque attendance, normally Indonesia [pictured]. the Church has been a travelers, as well as the dangers they faced “We believe that the kneel together in a closely-linked line. Surely Catholic churches in Ireland and community who gathered along the way. Sacraments are privileged Some have found ways of organising Britain can also devise a constructive way of moments of encounter around our Lord. their worship in changed circumstances – social distancing – and insist the churches Through historical sources, archaeological with God,” he wrote. “It is not our faith that has as in this very well-planned arrangement be allowed open again? evidence and beautiful illustrations, follow “Through these actions of been taken from us – but the these Irish pilgrims to gain fresh the community of Faith, closeness, the touch, of those Srs Agnes and Fiachra show off their giant rhubarb at Glencairn Abbey in Lismore, Co. Waterford. understanding of the motivations and we are drawn into a deeper who accompany us on the Might as well cut out the middle man... relationship with God and road of life,” he wrote. experiences that shaped their journeys. Minister Josepha Madigan, now, and the waiting time Marriage is already in Return to Masses has admitted that the has been successfully cut to decline, and the Irish have original ‘four years’ waiting- two years. Maybe that, too, a tradition of being slow GOAL reaches more than 10 » Continued from Page 1 time for divorce in Ireland is a ruse – presently there to marry, arising out of pastoral activities will of necessity be gradual and cautious. million with Covid-19 support was just a ruse to persuade may be no waiting period at wariness about the division Order your copy today “It is clear that re-opening the pastoral life of the Church a reluctant Irish electorate all? Just sign on the dotted with a staff of 2,500, is of land or small estates. will be far more challenging institutionally than anything we to endorse the dissolution of line and your spouse can Staff reporter in phase one of its global As the Mayo journalist to explore Ireland's have been through in the past few months. Our biggest chal- marriage. walk away any old time! response plan roll-out in John Healy wrote, the frail Irish humanitarian aid lenge may be lack of motivation to do all that is required on It will be remembered Africa, the Middle East and dynasties of small farms Medieval past. agency, GOAL, has reached the part of some, and unbridled enthusiasm to do everything that divorce passed within Latin America. Rush weren’t too eager to put more than 10 million vul- on the part of others. a whisker – half of one Ms Madigan says easier She said: “We know the their meagre inheritance nerable people with vital “It needs to be clearly understood, however, that churches per cent – in 1995, with divorce doesn’t undermine scale and speed of Covid-19 at risk with an unreliable + FREE Covid-19 awareness mes- will only be able to re-open for public liturgy when the proper the said waiting proviso. marriage – it respects it. can be devastating, as is its union. P&P saging and supports across procedures have been put in place,” the document concludes. “The price to win over a Well, that’s a point of view. €26.99 its 13 countries of operation capacity to take lives, destroy In a letter to priests this week, Primate of All-Ireland Arch- The easier divorce wary electorate was the So far – but only so far – economies, and put an enor- becomes, the less point “Freedom is rooted in the Truth about man, since the start of the crisis in bishop Eamon Martin said he hoped the finalised document mandating of a four-year there hasn’t been a dramatic mous strain on resources March. “will also support our continuing engagement with govern- waiting period in the rise in divorce petitions, there is in getting married. in even the most capable ment and public health authorities – north and south – in mak- The agency said it has to Constitution,” she has although some lawyers As the American satirist Phone 01 6874096 healthcare systems in the ing a case for the early resumption of the public celebration of date reached more than 9.5 written. The people, said are expecting a rush to the and divorce veteran P.J. St Pope John Paul II world. Whatever chance Mass and the Sacraments in a measured and safe way”. Visit www.columbabooks.com million people with coro- Ms Madigan, didn’t want divorce courts after the end O’Rourke, has bitterly navirus media messaging in countries like Ireland have Following a meeting of the bishops’ conference standing Post Cheque 23 Merrion Square North, Dublin 2 divorce to be too easy, so of the lockdown. remarked about any future eight of its countries, while to cope with Covid-19, it has committee this week at which the document was discussed, they had to be placated with My prediction is not that plans for matrimony and its more than 723,000 people the potential to have a cata- Archbishop of Dublin Diarmuid Martin said that the civil a promise that evidently there will be a rush to more dissolution: “Next time I’ll have benefitted from direct strophic impact on millions authorities are “constantly evaluating progress in re-opening wasn’t intended to be divorce: but there will be cut out the middle man. I’ll Vocations Director: Fr Colm Mannion OP contact in ten of its counties. of vulnerable people living in society and it is important that we as Church are ready to sustained. an increasing reluctance to just give away a house to GOAL deputy CEO Mary the developing countries in respond to any change in the current proposed timescale”. Mobile: 086-0864420 | Email: [email protected] Anyway, that’s all done marry. someone I hate!” Van Lieshout said the agency, which GOAL serves.” i See Page 8. The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | Comment ||5

‘Outdoor’m never been much housework’ has its attractions because a wild garden is now of a garden person – said to encourage nature, rather concurring with birds, bees and especially whoever described Mary Kenny butterflies. Igardening as ‘outside Gardens are often part of housework’. That is, chores spirituality, and, however done to maintain some counting my blessings and I’m trying to identify tumbledown, they prompt kind of domestic order, showing some appreciation their different sounds now reflection. I remember an rather than for any kind of of my ramshackle garden – the original tweets that aunt of mine treasuring fulfillment. patch. So, as the lovely May long preceded Twitter: the an embroidered sampler, But the Covid-19 summer drew on, I’ve taken thrush, the sparrow, the hung on her kitchen wall: lockdown did make me to sitting and working in the blue-tit and the very special the words a little corny, but aware that there are people garden. throaty call of the wood sweet and simple: “The kiss who have no gardens, And with no airplanes pigeon. Then, above all, the of the sun for pardon/The and no access to a garden. flying overhead, and very joyful blackbird. song of the birds for mirth/ These months have been little traffic on the nearby One is nearer God’s heart in really tough for those roads, how wondrous Wild a garden/Than anywhere else who live in apartments, the garden birdsong has My garden is wild, and not at on earth.” or whose homes have no become! The birdies have all like the exquisite pictures I’ve been given the garden attached. been singing loud and clear, I’ve seen of friends’ gardens opportunity to be grateful I’d never given much in full-throated musical posted on social media, for my garden. Perhaps I thought to those without voice. Is it the first time or on TV programmes like may even take the plunge gardens, but the lockdown in my life that I’ve really BloomwithRTÉ. Yet maybe and attend to a little light jolted me into a sense of listened to birdsong? I’m on trend, just the same, ‘outdoor housework’. The blackbird: ‘joyful’.

l Dominic Cummings, Boris Johnson’s ‘Svengali’ was the full focus of media attention this week after it was disclosed that he appeared to have broken the lockdown rules he was enjoined to uphold. As it happens, his wife, Mary Wakefield [pictured], has quite recently become a Catholic. She says her husband is “a very kind man”; he may need some dedicated prayers forthwith to rescue him from his present difficulties…

The

DSeeko mTruthinicans …find beauty! l Muslims, who adhere strongly to their for Ramadan prayer in East Java, Friday mosque attendance, normally Indonesia [pictured]. kneel together in a closely-linked line. Surely Catholic churches in Ireland and Some have found ways of organising Britain can also devise a constructive way of their worship in changed circumstances – social distancing – and insist the churches as in this very well-planned arrangement be allowed open again? Might as well cut out the middle man... Minister Josepha Madigan, now, and the waiting time Marriage is already in has admitted that the has been successfully cut to decline, and the Irish have original ‘four years’ waiting- two years. Maybe that, too, a tradition of being slow time for divorce in Ireland is a ruse – presently there to marry, arising out of was just a ruse to persuade may be no waiting period at wariness about the division a reluctant Irish electorate all? Just sign on the dotted of land or small estates. to endorse the dissolution of line and your spouse can As the Mayo journalist marriage. walk away any old time! John Healy wrote, the frail It will be remembered dynasties of small farms that divorce passed within Rush weren’t too eager to put a whisker – half of one Ms Madigan says easier their meagre inheritance per cent – in 1995, with divorce doesn’t undermine at risk with an unreliable the said waiting proviso. marriage – it respects it. union. “The price to win over a Well, that’s a point of view. The easier divorce wary electorate was the So far – but only so far – becomes, the less point “Freedom is rooted in the Truth about man, mandating of a four-year there hasn’t been a dramatic waiting period in the rise in divorce petitions, there is in getting married. Constitution,” she has although some lawyers As the American satirist written. The people, said are expecting a rush to the and divorce veteran P.J. St Pope John Paul II Ms Madigan, didn’t want divorce courts after the end O’Rourke, has bitterly divorce to be too easy, so of the lockdown. remarked about any future they had to be placated with My prediction is not that plans for matrimony and its a promise that evidently there will be a rush to more dissolution: “Next time I’ll wasn’t intended to be divorce: but there will be cut out the middle man. I’ll Vocations Director: Fr Colm Mannion OP sustained. an increasing reluctance to just give away a house to Mobile: 086-0864420 | Email: [email protected] Anyway, that’s all done marry. someone I hate!” 6 | News || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | Comment ||7 Archbishop Irish missionary: Brazil president hopeful Maria Steen ‘abandoning poor’ during pandemic for early The View recent online meeting of their ting pressure on all aspects of resumption Chai Brady deanery, all six parish priests Brazilian life in the middle of An Irish missionary has confirmed that the virus was the pandemic.” ast week, the prevalent in their parishes, The Bishops’ Conference of Masses Outsourcing moral education blasted Brazil’s president for BBC and other his “complete lack of direc- with many deaths and infec- of Brazil has raised concerns outlets carried tion” during the coronavirus tions about the “threat of military Staff reporter a report that a crisis, and for putting the “Access to public hospitals rule, erosion of democracy, Archbishop Eamon Martin school in Hull had apolo- economy before the poor. and clinics is now at break- abandonment of poor, lack has written to clergy of the gised after pupils researched of our children is dangerous ing-point. The country is of investment for the public pornL on the internet for or something else is – which Fr Brendan Foley CSSp, the Armagh Archdiocese saying smart phones. meta-analysis of 135 studies losing the battle against the healthcare system as well Superior of the Brazil South- he hopes that the bishops’ homework set for its pupils. means that you are a slave The normalisation of in the area, which found virus,” Fr Foley told The Irish as the failure to protect the West Province of the Spiritans plan for safe public liturgies Children aged 11-14 had to someone or something pornography in its vari- that exposure to pornogra- Catholic. Amazon’s biodiversity and its and PP in Perus, São Paulo, will help the Church North been asked to “define” top- else. This is particularly true ous forms hinted at in the phy led both women and indigenous peoples” Fr Foley said as the virus is expected to and South to make the case ics such as “hardcore porn”, in the area of sexuality. Hull lesson is completely men to have a diminished highlighted. peak in June the “almost col- Refusal for an early resumption of “soft porn”, “revenge porn” This is also the rea- opposed to a Catholic view of women’s compe- “The finger of blame points The Irish Spiritans are fol- and “sexting”. A mother lapsed health system directly the public celebration of son that ‘consent’ classes worldview. The Church tence, morality and human- towards President Bolsonáro lowing State-wide regula- of an 11-year-old girl was excludes the poor”. Mass and the Sacraments “in as a panacea for sexual insists that each and every ity. One of the speakers for his complete lack of direc- tions and the guidelines of horrified when she saw Over the weekend Brazil a measured and safe way”. misconduct will never be human being possesses at the Catholic LoveLife tion, refusal to accept official the Archdiocese of São Paulo, Noting that this Sunday the content of the Per- registered a higher number enough: if you are a slave inalienable dignity and Conference, a licensed global health advice, limited and are responding pastorally. is the feast of Pentecost, sonal Social Health Educa- to someone or something of fatalities as a result of the is worthy of respect, as a counsellor and sex addic- welfare support for the poor- Fr Foley said: “We now Archbishop Eamon writes tion (PSHE) lesson, which else in this area (be it sexual person created in the image virus than the US – the worst tion therapist, spoke of how est and his lack of support for have a longer list of inten- that “I find it sad and required her daughter to addiction, pornography, or and likeness of God. hit country – and at the time his female patients, whose inter-state collaboration to tions for those who have died, disappointing that we have explain genital mutilation being beholden to another Pornography, even if all of print had the second worst husbands use pornography, fight the spread of the virus,” were infected or are recover- now come the whole way and breast ironing as well as individual), to what extent involved consent (which outbreak in the world. often suffer from poor body he said. ing from the virus. through the Easter season transgender pornography. are you even truly free to is difficult to verify and Covid-19 has reached the image and lowered self- “More concerned for the “We continue to pray in and we are still unable to She explained that her learn about the kind of 35,000 registered partici- consent to sexual activity? frequently is not the case), esteem as well as high levels favelas [slums] in Fr Foley’s economy, he is threatening a simplicity for all affected by gather physically for Mass daughter was still very things taught in the school pants. inevitably and unavoidably of anxiety. parish, which he describes return to military rule and is the virus, rely on the Holy and the sacraments. much a child, whose bed- in Hull is a moral stance – it Many of the speakers degrades both participant Normalisation For parents who want as a “great worry” given the constantly chipping away at Spirit to guide us and hope in “I want to thank you for room was decorated with is not the kind of morality addressed the issue of how, ❛❛ and viewer. But you don’t to raise their girls and boys Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro. high population density. In a democratic processes, put- Jesus Christ.” the work you are doing at My Little Pony imagery, that many parents would in the culture in which we of pornography have to be Catholic to recog- with a sense of self-worth local level to plan for the yet she was being asked to be happy to be transmitted live, to raise children with is opposed to a nise that it is also funda- full ‘re-opening’ of parish define sexual terms that to their children, but it is a a healthy attitude towards mentally anti-human. and respect for others, Catholic worldview” now is a wonderful time to Gaisce says ‘Maith life and worship. Please work even her mother was not morality or value system in sex that will allow them to There are many neurosci- closely with your priests so familiar with. She added: itself. flourish. In the words of Matt Many of the talks in the ence-based studies which redouble their efforts in tak- Sports ‘a beautiful way of “We only know about this The implication in Fradd, one of the speakers, ing responsibility for their that your parish stands ready Catholic LoveLife Confer- show the deleterious and Thú’ to Ireland’s youth to respond quickly when because they’re home learn- lessons like these (often this means teaching our ence were focussed on the addictive effects on the children’s moral education. the public health authorities ing.” explicitly stated), is that children how to develop an damage that pornography minds of viewers, particu- We cannot outsource the The President’s Award is to launch its ‘Maith Thú’ campaign to glorifying your body’ tell us it is safe to begin The principal of Arch- all sexual choices are valid ‘internal filter’ in an unfil- is doing to relationships larly young developing responsibility to profession- commend young people for their resilience through the Covid- gathering together again for bishop Sentamu Academy and equal – that there is no tered world. and marriage, as well as the minds. Other studies show als, all the more so when 19 pandemic. in Hull said: “I am genu- moral quality to the choices Ruadhán Jones Cáit Mass inside our churches,” This idea of an ‘internal destructive effect it has on poor mental-emotional the professionals may be Maith Thú celebrates the achievements of young people who he writes. inely sorry if parents or that people make in rela- filter’ is what Christianity inculcating a worldview at “I identify as a Christian first and foremost, that Glass. young minds. health outcomes for view- have completed their Gaisce Award and offers encouragement students have unnecessar- tion to sex and sexuality. is all about: self-mastery. odds with true morality. informs everything I do,” said Cáit Glass, Derry It is one of the things that ers as well as increased to those needing extra support to finish their award activities ily researched any of these So much is this the case Self-mastery is what leads to parents – Catholic and oth- tolerance of sexual violence Those parents wonder- Ladies Gaelic football captain from 2017 to 2019. Preparations during the crisis. He said that he hopes phrases and for any offence that any other conse- personal freedom: if you are erwise – are very concerned towards women. ing where to start could do In a video for Derry Diocese, Cáit said “Unfortunately, this year there will be no award ceremonies,” the national framework caused by this mistake.” quences of these sexual not master of your emotions about, particularly when The Journal of Sex worse than to check out the captaining her county was “an amazing says CEO of Gaisce Yvonne McKenna. document that will soon be He added that stu- choices (be they physical, and desires, then someone their children have access to Research published a 2016 Everts’ LoveLife Conference. “However, we don’t want the efforts these amazing young experience” and “wouldn’t have been the same released “will help guide dents “were not directed emotional or spiritual) are people have made to go overlooked. without my Faith behind me”. our ongoing preparations at to research these topics not merely overlooked, but “It’s more important than ever to recognise the contribution “It informs every opportunity I have in sport,” parish and diocesan level. themselves on the internet anyone who raises them is young people are making in their homes and communities she said, “all the decisions I make and how I am “It will also support our because all the answers to seen as some kind of sex- across the country.” when I go out and play and train.” continuing engagement the questions posed are phobe. In essence, a person The life of a professional athlete can be with government and public contained in the teacher- who raises concerns about AVAILABLE NOW produced materials we these consequences is a BEES ARE difficult, but Cáit found comfort in her Faith. health authorities – north INCLUDING “In sport, you have lots of highs, but lows and south – in making a case shared”. sexual heretic. And that is a MESSAGE TO moral stance. POSTAGE! maybe more so,” she said. “It can be difficult for the early resumption of €. The thing that causes VITAL TO LIFE those times if you’re really using your sport to the public celebration of Research Let that sink in for a worry for many parents is POPE FRANCIS, form your identity. Mass and the Sacraments in moment. The apology was in that the value system of the “For me, that’s one of the big reasons my Faith a measured and safe way,” ON EARTH. THE IRISH according to the archbishop. respect of any independent school does not match the is so important for my sport.” research that the children kind of values they want to “One part of scripture that really sticks out to might have carried out; pass on to their children. YET EACH YEAR THEY’RE UNDER SISTERS OF me is Corinthians and it says, ‘Glorify God in your Ireland to launch there was no apology for This is particularly true EXTREME THREAT BECAUSE OF body’,” she said. “When it comes to sport…it’s MS Day with Virtual the content of the lesson or for Catholic parents in this CHARITY AND such a beautiful way of glorifying your body.” Balloon Race the fact that the teachers country. And it is, perhaps, HUMAN ACTIVITY. THE PRIMATE Multiple Sclerosis Ireland will had provided the answers to one of the benefits that James Morrisey is looking to open launch World MS Day 2020 these questions themselves. many parents are now There have been many feeling while their children people’s eyes to the importance of on May 30 with a Virtual OF ALL IRELAND. downsides to the lockdown, are at home with them: Oireachtas told nursing Balloon Race. bees. In The Bee’s Knees he rolls out a but one of the upsides has that they get to influence Around 9,000 balloons, fascinating insight into the world of been the time that parents their children’s moral representing the number of are able to spend in their development, rather than this hardworking species and writes "My life at 12 weeks will be taken homes felt ‘isolated’ by State people in Ireland with the children’s company. Most have them influenced by of the valuable part they play in our the pandemic. who asked why there was condition, will be virtually parents have become much a government curriculum ecosystem. From fun facts to in depth in a hospital built on Land gifted Staff reporter The NHI and the Health no plan forthcoming when launched from the charity’s more conscious of their chil- which pays little heed to by the Church. My Pain will be Nursing homes were left Information and Quality all the international experi- care centre in Bushy Park, dren’s work from school – parents’ wishes as to how proﬁles of Ireland’s beekeepers, isolated as the Government Authority (HIAQ) are discuss- ence said there was a need Dublin this Saturday at 12 much of it good – but there their children are guided uncover the history of the honeybee ing their roles in managing for a plan, Mr Daly said there noon. small compared to that inflicted rushed to prioritise hospitals must also be those who are and educated in this area. and discover how you can help ensure as the coronavirus struck, it the virus in the nursing home should have been a national “World MS Day is a day questioning the direction of Last weekend, US speak- on the Person of Christ" has been claimed. sector. plan and there had been an to celebrate global solidarity the moral teaching in school, ers, Jason and Crystalina its survival. The chief executive of Tadhg Daly said that nurs- overt focus on the acute hos- and hope for the future,” says particularly in the area of Evert, hosted a virtual Nursing Homes Ireland has ing homes were isolated “in pitals sector to the exclusion Ava Battles, Chief Executive sex and sexuality. And make Catholic LoveLife Confer- Can you help our campaign? told the Oireachtas Com- the early days” of the pan- of community care. of MS Ireland. “The campaign no mistake about it, in this ence on dating, marriage mittee on Covid-19 that key demic. Mr Daly said the surge is to raise awareness of the area, every school takes a and family, and sexual eth- Order your copy by: Phoning 01 6874096 | Visitingwww.currachbooks.com State organisations left nurs- Responding to a ques- that was expected in hospi- moral stance. ics. The conference had over Replies to: [email protected] condition and to support and Posting a cheque to23 Merrion Square North, Dublin 2 ing homes and their residents tion from Sinn Féin’s health tals happened in the nursing connect the 2.3 million people Requiring children to 70 speakers and more than isolated in the early days of spokesperson Louise O’Reilly, home sector. living with it worldwide.” 6 | News || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | Comment ||7 Archbishop Irish missionary: Brazil president hopeful Maria Steen ‘abandoning poor’ during pandemic for early The View recent online meeting of their ting pressure on all aspects of resumption Chai Brady deanery, all six parish priests Brazilian life in the middle of An Irish missionary has confirmed that the virus was the pandemic.” ast week, the prevalent in their parishes, The Bishops’ Conference of Masses Outsourcing moral education blasted Brazil’s president for BBC and other his “complete lack of direc- with many deaths and infec- of Brazil has raised concerns outlets carried tion” during the coronavirus tions about the “threat of military Staff reporter a report that a crisis, and for putting the “Access to public hospitals rule, erosion of democracy, Archbishop Eamon Martin school in Hull had apolo- economy before the poor. and clinics is now at break- abandonment of poor, lack has written to clergy of the gised after pupils researched of our children is dangerous ing-point. The country is of investment for the public pornL on the internet for or something else is – which Fr Brendan Foley CSSp, the Armagh Archdiocese saying smart phones. meta-analysis of 135 studies losing the battle against the healthcare system as well Superior of the Brazil South- he hopes that the bishops’ homework set for its pupils. means that you are a slave The normalisation of in the area, which found virus,” Fr Foley told The Irish as the failure to protect the West Province of the Spiritans plan for safe public liturgies Children aged 11-14 had to someone or something pornography in its vari- that exposure to pornogra- Catholic. Amazon’s biodiversity and its and PP in Perus, São Paulo, will help the Church North been asked to “define” top- else. This is particularly true ous forms hinted at in the phy led both women and indigenous peoples” Fr Foley said as the virus is expected to and South to make the case ics such as “hardcore porn”, in the area of sexuality. Hull lesson is completely men to have a diminished highlighted. peak in June the “almost col- Refusal for an early resumption of “soft porn”, “revenge porn” This is also the rea- opposed to a Catholic view of women’s compe- “The finger of blame points The Irish Spiritans are fol- and “sexting”. A mother lapsed health system directly the public celebration of son that ‘consent’ classes worldview. The Church tence, morality and human- towards President Bolsonáro lowing State-wide regula- of an 11-year-old girl was excludes the poor”. Mass and the Sacraments “in as a panacea for sexual insists that each and every ity. One of the speakers for his complete lack of direc- tions and the guidelines of horrified when she saw Over the weekend Brazil a measured and safe way”. misconduct will never be human being possesses at the Catholic LoveLife tion, refusal to accept official the Archdiocese of São Paulo, Noting that this Sunday the content of the Per- registered a higher number enough: if you are a slave inalienable dignity and Conference, a licensed global health advice, limited and are responding pastorally. is the feast of Pentecost, sonal Social Health Educa- to someone or something of fatalities as a result of the is worthy of respect, as a counsellor and sex addic- welfare support for the poor- Fr Foley said: “We now Archbishop Eamon writes tion (PSHE) lesson, which else in this area (be it sexual person created in the image virus than the US – the worst tion therapist, spoke of how est and his lack of support for have a longer list of inten- that “I find it sad and required her daughter to addiction, pornography, or and likeness of God. hit country – and at the time his female patients, whose inter-state collaboration to tions for those who have died, disappointing that we have explain genital mutilation being beholden to another Pornography, even if all of print had the second worst husbands use pornography, fight the spread of the virus,” were infected or are recover- now come the whole way and breast ironing as well as individual), to what extent involved consent (which outbreak in the world. often suffer from poor body he said. ing from the virus. through the Easter season transgender pornography. are you even truly free to is difficult to verify and Covid-19 has reached the image and lowered self- “More concerned for the “We continue to pray in and we are still unable to She explained that her learn about the kind of 35,000 registered partici- consent to sexual activity? frequently is not the case), esteem as well as high levels favelas [slums] in Fr Foley’s economy, he is threatening a simplicity for all affected by gather physically for Mass daughter was still very things taught in the school pants. inevitably and unavoidably of anxiety. parish, which he describes return to military rule and is the virus, rely on the Holy and the sacraments. much a child, whose bed- in Hull is a moral stance – it Many of the speakers degrades both participant Normalisation For parents who want as a “great worry” given the constantly chipping away at Spirit to guide us and hope in “I want to thank you for room was decorated with is not the kind of morality addressed the issue of how, ❛❛ and viewer. But you don’t to raise their girls and boys Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro. high population density. In a democratic processes, put- Jesus Christ.” the work you are doing at My Little Pony imagery, that many parents would in the culture in which we of pornography have to be Catholic to recog- with a sense of self-worth local level to plan for the yet she was being asked to be happy to be transmitted live, to raise children with is opposed to a nise that it is also funda- full ‘re-opening’ of parish define sexual terms that to their children, but it is a a healthy attitude towards mentally anti-human. and respect for others, Catholic worldview” now is a wonderful time to Gaisce says ‘Maith life and worship. Please work even her mother was not morality or value system in sex that will allow them to There are many neurosci- closely with your priests so familiar with. She added: itself. flourish. In the words of Matt Many of the talks in the ence-based studies which redouble their efforts in tak- Sports ‘a beautiful way of “We only know about this The implication in Fradd, one of the speakers, ing responsibility for their that your parish stands ready Catholic LoveLife Confer- show the deleterious and Thú’ to Ireland’s youth to respond quickly when because they’re home learn- lessons like these (often this means teaching our ence were focussed on the addictive effects on the children’s moral education. the public health authorities ing.” explicitly stated), is that children how to develop an damage that pornography minds of viewers, particu- We cannot outsource the The President’s Award is to launch its ‘Maith Thú’ campaign to glorifying your body’ tell us it is safe to begin The principal of Arch- all sexual choices are valid ‘internal filter’ in an unfil- is doing to relationships larly young developing responsibility to profession- commend young people for their resilience through the Covid- gathering together again for bishop Sentamu Academy and equal – that there is no tered world. and marriage, as well as the minds. Other studies show als, all the more so when 19 pandemic. in Hull said: “I am genu- moral quality to the choices Ruadhán Jones Cáit Mass inside our churches,” This idea of an ‘internal destructive effect it has on poor mental-emotional the professionals may be Maith Thú celebrates the achievements of young people who he writes. inely sorry if parents or that people make in rela- filter’ is what Christianity inculcating a worldview at “I identify as a Christian first and foremost, that Glass. young minds. health outcomes for view- have completed their Gaisce Award and offers encouragement students have unnecessar- tion to sex and sexuality. is all about: self-mastery. odds with true morality. informs everything I do,” said Cáit Glass, Derry It is one of the things that ers as well as increased to those needing extra support to finish their award activities ily researched any of these So much is this the case Self-mastery is what leads to parents – Catholic and oth- tolerance of sexual violence Those parents wonder- Ladies Gaelic football captain from 2017 to 2019. Preparations during the crisis. He said that he hopes phrases and for any offence that any other conse- personal freedom: if you are erwise – are very concerned towards women. ing where to start could do In a video for Derry Diocese, Cáit said “Unfortunately, this year there will be no award ceremonies,” the national framework caused by this mistake.” quences of these sexual not master of your emotions about, particularly when The Journal of Sex worse than to check out the captaining her county was “an amazing says CEO of Gaisce Yvonne McKenna. document that will soon be He added that stu- choices (be they physical, and desires, then someone their children have access to Research published a 2016 Everts’ LoveLife Conference. “However, we don’t want the efforts these amazing young experience” and “wouldn’t have been the same released “will help guide dents “were not directed emotional or spiritual) are people have made to go overlooked. without my Faith behind me”. our ongoing preparations at to research these topics not merely overlooked, but “It’s more important than ever to recognise the contribution “It informs every opportunity I have in sport,” parish and diocesan level. themselves on the internet anyone who raises them is young people are making in their homes and communities she said, “all the decisions I make and how I am “It will also support our because all the answers to seen as some kind of sex- across the country.” when I go out and play and train.” continuing engagement the questions posed are phobe. In essence, a person The life of a professional athlete can be with government and public contained in the teacher- who raises concerns about AVAILABLE NOW produced materials we these consequences is a BEES ARE difficult, but Cáit found comfort in her Faith. health authorities – north INCLUDING “In sport, you have lots of highs, but lows and south – in making a case shared”. sexual heretic. And that is a MESSAGE TO moral stance. POSTAGE! maybe more so,” she said. “It can be difficult for the early resumption of €. The thing that causes VITAL TO LIFE those times if you’re really using your sport to the public celebration of Research Let that sink in for a worry for many parents is POPE FRANCIS, form your identity. Mass and the Sacraments in moment. The apology was in that the value system of the “For me, that’s one of the big reasons my Faith a measured and safe way,” ON EARTH. THE IRISH according to the archbishop. respect of any independent school does not match the is so important for my sport.” research that the children kind of values they want to “One part of scripture that really sticks out to might have carried out; pass on to their children. YET EACH YEAR THEY’RE UNDER SISTERS OF me is Corinthians and it says, ‘Glorify God in your Ireland to launch there was no apology for This is particularly true EXTREME THREAT BECAUSE OF body’,” she said. “When it comes to sport…it’s MS Day with Virtual the content of the lesson or for Catholic parents in this CHARITY AND such a beautiful way of glorifying your body.” Balloon Race the fact that the teachers country. And it is, perhaps, HUMAN ACTIVITY. THE PRIMATE Multiple Sclerosis Ireland will had provided the answers to one of the benefits that James Morrisey is looking to open launch World MS Day 2020 these questions themselves. many parents are now There have been many feeling while their children people’s eyes to the importance of on May 30 with a Virtual OF ALL IRELAND. downsides to the lockdown, are at home with them: Oireachtas told nursing Balloon Race. bees. In The Bee’s Knees he rolls out a but one of the upsides has that they get to influence Around 9,000 balloons, fascinating insight into the world of been the time that parents their children’s moral representing the number of are able to spend in their development, rather than this hardworking species and writes "My life at 12 weeks will be taken homes felt ‘isolated’ by State people in Ireland with the children’s company. Most have them influenced by of the valuable part they play in our the pandemic. who asked why there was condition, will be virtually parents have become much a government curriculum ecosystem. From fun facts to in depth in a hospital built on Land gifted Staff reporter The NHI and the Health no plan forthcoming when launched from the charity’s more conscious of their chil- which pays little heed to by the Church. My Pain will be Nursing homes were left Information and Quality all the international experi- care centre in Bushy Park, dren’s work from school – parents’ wishes as to how proﬁles of Ireland’s beekeepers, isolated as the Government Authority (HIAQ) are discuss- ence said there was a need Dublin this Saturday at 12 much of it good – but there their children are guided uncover the history of the honeybee ing their roles in managing for a plan, Mr Daly said there noon. small compared to that inflicted rushed to prioritise hospitals must also be those who are and educated in this area. and discover how you can help ensure as the coronavirus struck, it the virus in the nursing home should have been a national “World MS Day is a day questioning the direction of Last weekend, US speak- on the Person of Christ" has been claimed. sector. plan and there had been an to celebrate global solidarity the moral teaching in school, ers, Jason and Crystalina its survival. The chief executive of Tadhg Daly said that nurs- overt focus on the acute hos- and hope for the future,” says particularly in the area of Evert, hosted a virtual Nursing Homes Ireland has ing homes were isolated “in pitals sector to the exclusion Ava Battles, Chief Executive sex and sexuality. And make Catholic LoveLife Confer- Can you help our campaign? told the Oireachtas Com- the early days” of the pan- of community care. of MS Ireland. “The campaign no mistake about it, in this ence on dating, marriage mittee on Covid-19 that key demic. Mr Daly said the surge is to raise awareness of the area, every school takes a and family, and sexual eth- Order your copy by: Phoning 01 6874096 | Visiting www.currachbooks.com State organisations left nurs- Responding to a ques- that was expected in hospi- moral stance. ics. The conference had over Replies to: [email protected] condition and to support and Posting a cheque to23 Merrion Square North, Dublin 2 ing homes and their residents tion from Sinn Féin’s health tals happened in the nursing connect the 2.3 million people Requiring children to 70 speakers and more than isolated in the early days of spokesperson Louise O’Reilly, home sector. living with it worldwide.” 8 | News || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 A WORLD IN WHICH CHRISTIANITY CAN THRIVE EVERYWHERE

To deny the reality of Christian A plan back to Mass… Persecution is to deny Christ but not as we know it and His Su ering integrity of the sacrament”. “For the foreseeable future it will As the journey not be possible to safely celebrate the sacrament in the normal way back to common in the confessional. This is not just about protecting the priest from the worship virus, it is also about protecting the faithful from the virus that a priest continues, may, without knowing it, be carry- ing,” it says. parishes will The plan is that provision would be made in the body of the church need to be ready for a confessional area this would include a waiting area which pro- to hit the ground vides both for the confidentiality of the celebration and for the required physical distance of those waiting. running, writes Pakistan: A Christian working in a CHINA: The head of a Marian statue HONG KONG: Cardinal Joseph Zen NIGERIA: More than 6,000 Christians Michael Kelly ❛❛ Our biggest sewer in Karachi. among the ruins of a demolished Church. speaks out against Vatican – China deal. have been killed since 2015. rchbishop Diarmuid Mar- challenge may be lack tin spoke for many when Overwhelmingly, Christians are the most persecuted In PAKISTAN, many Catholics are forced to work he said on Monday even- of motivation to do all • ing that “as Christians, that is required on the people in the world. This persecution takes many in sewers as they are excluded from employment we suffer through not being able to Acelebrate our faith through public part of some...” forms including political, economic, cultural and social unless they profess Islamism. worship”. When it comes to the sacraments – indeed all religious persecution is a form of violence The suspension of public Masses of initiation, the document says that • In CHINA, many Catholics are imprisoned, tortured in mid-March as the coronavirus the celebration of Confirmation for against the dignity inherent in every human being. reached these shores has caused a children who have finished their or killed unless they renounce their Faith in favour lot of pain and untold spiritual, emo- time in primary school should be tional and mental damage. given priority. It says that the most There are many voices who try to silence and suppress of Communism. The archbishop added that “there helpful solution, balancing pastoral is a sense in which this void is espe- need and timely celebration, would the horrific extent of Christian persecution globally, cially experienced by priests. • In NIGERIA, many Catholics su er hellish violence see the celebration of Confirmation who minimise or mock this reality: yet, for persecuted “Priests share in the anxiousness in each parish by the parish priest. from Boko Haram and Fulani Herdman, all with the of all believers and in addition they Conscious of demographics, the Christians, there is no such thing as crying wolf – their find themselves unable to carry out People in the Queens borough of New York City pray at St Bartholomew Church during the coronavirus document notes that the State road- complicity of it’s Muslim government. to the full what is most essential in pandemic. Photo: CNS map envisages some relaxation of every cry is a prayer for help, for mercy, for justice. their calling,” he said following a n Preparing for a return to public not necessary to turn people away. Communion under consideration the cocoon, but “it doesn’t suggest meeting of the bishops’ conference sacramental life is not something This will include reminding people include a Perspex screen, with an that there will be a return to any kind Christian Persecution has been a perennial and perva- standing committee considering a that priests can or should attempt that the obligation to attend Sunday opening at hand level being placed of normal life for the thousands of Even in the West, many Catholics are excluded from return to public Masses. to do on their own. Instead, they Mass is dispensed and arranging in at all Communion distribution people who are currently cocooned, sive reality for 2,000 years. What is clear is that there can should work with the parish coun- advance to spread participation in points. Alternatively, each priest will many of whom make a huge contri- governmental positions and influence unless they be no return to common worship cil and identify people with suit- Mass across the week. wear a transparent visor following bution in the parish community and accept and promote abortion, homosexual marriage Christians are persecuted for the Faith that we share unless parishes take proactive steps able expertise (medical, health and Parishes will also be asked to the correct protocols. among whom are counted many of and are ready to hit the ground run- safety, project management, crowd suggest to those who are vulner- People will be asked to approach our priests. and wider Communistic principles. with them: please, help ACN Ireland help them. ning when State restrictions ease. control, etc.) to implement a plan. able due to old age or ill-health, Holy Communion in single file and “We recognise that many elderly n Competent parishioners who have that they might continue to partici- consideration will also be given to lay ministers and other volunteers, as ‘New normal’ the personal skills to act as stewards pate on webcam or on radio for the distributing Holy Communion to well as priests, may be experiencing A draft of the Framework Document should be identified. moment and, if they wish, arrange people in their seats with priests anxiety and a real sense of loss both for a Return to the Public Celebration Please indicate the n A risk assessment should be car- for a family member to bring them wearing transparent visors making because of Covid-19 and because Yes, I would like to donate to Aid to the Church in Need I would like to make ✁ of Mass and the Sacraments and the ried out to ensure churches can be Holy Communion, while observing their way through the Church. of the experience of cocooning and type and number of I would like to make a monthly donation Aid to the * Pastoral Life of the Church obtained Masses required. made ready. the required sanitising of hands etc. may question whether they can or Church in Need wherever the need is greatest of €10 €25 €50 Other € a Mass O ering by The Irish Catholic sets out pro- n In a parish which has a number Missalettes, shared prayer books, should return to public ministry

It doesn’t suggest ACNIC_0520 tocols that will have to be followed of churches, it is recommended to hymnals or hymn sheets should not ❛❛ under the present circumstances,” TITLE FIRST NAME SURNAME GENERAL TRIDUUM to ensure that a return to Mass is consider if it is better to open only be available. There will also be boxes that there will be a return the document says. as safe as possible. This included NOVENA GREGORIAN the larger church initially. at the back of the church to avoid the to any kind of normal Getting back to some semblance FULL ADDRESS encouraging older and vulnerable n Holy Water fonts will remain need for people to pass collection of normality is a huge task and the Suggested donation per Mass are as follows: parishioners to continue to remain empty. baskets or bags. life for the thousands of bishops point out that “it is clear General - €10 | Triduum - €30 | Novena - €70 | Gregorian - €270 at home and follow the Mass via a n Hand sanitisation stations will that re-opening the pastoral life of webcam or on the radio. Choirs and become standard as will signage cocooned people” the Church will be far more chal- DONATION Please tick if you would like Cantor PHONE NUMBER EMAIL AMOUNT € an appropriate card sent out. congregational singing will also not directing social distancing and The draft proposes that churches Thought is also being given to the lenging institutionally than anything feature in the ‘new normal’ for the churches will now have a designated should endeavour to have an organ- possibility of loudspeakers outside we have been through in the past MASS INTENTIONS Church. entry and exit door. ist and cantor to provide music to allow people unable to enter the few months. * If you are a taxpayer, €21 or more I enclose a cheque/postal order payable to Aid to the Church in Need OR The document notes that “we n Where practicable, outdoor but there should be no choir or church to gather at a safe distance “Our biggest challenge may be a month can go 45% futher towards please debit my MasterCard Visa. must be particularly aware of Masses will be part of the future. congregational singing. Priests are in carparks with the possibility of lack of motivation to do all that is ACN’s work at no extra cost to you. Card Number: (Laser only) priests, ministers and Faithful who required on the part of some, and When it comes to a return to pub- asked not to wear masks or gloves, Holy Communion being brought For Credit Transfers and are particularly vulnerable to Covid- lic Masses, the number of available but should simply remain at the out to them. Parishioners will also unbridled enthusiasm to do every- 19 infection, but who also risk the thing on the part of others,” accord- Direct Debits our bank details are: benches will determine roughly the required physical distance from the be advised to leave Mass gradually Valid From: Maestro Issue No. damaging effects of physical and maximum number in the church for congregation during the entirety of and not to congregate together out- ing to the document. IBAN IE32 BOFI 9005 7890 6993 28 M M Y Y social isolation. any Mass. The number of available the Mass and the sign of peace will side afterwards. The bottom line is, as the bishops BIC BOFI IE2D “If properly implemented and Expiry Date: M M Y Y Signature strip code (last 3 digits) places will be publicly displayed at not involve physical contact. When it comes to Confession, the point out, that churches “will only Please detach this form and return, carefully managed, these measures be able to reopen for public liturgy the entrance. Holy Communion will be distrib- document states that it “must be cel- with your gi , to the address below. Please complete your personal and payment details and will help all of us to re-engage with when the proper procedures have Signature Parishes are encouraged to man- uted in the hand only for the fore- ebrated while respecting both the I do not require an acknowledgment. return to the address below. the public life of the Church with age public expectations so that it is seeable future and other options for required physical distance and the been put in place”. confidence, energy and joy,” the Any Catholic with an interest in a draft says. return to Mass will have to play their Registered Some of the main provisions in Parishes will also be asked to suggest to those who are vulnerable due to old part – parishes will need an army of Charity Numbers: acnireland.org/donate or call us on 01 837 7516 the 88-point document include: age❛❛ or ill-health, that they might continue to participate on webcam or on radio” volunteers. (RoI) 9492 (NI) XR96620 Aid to the Church in Need, 151 St. Mobhi Road, Glasnevin, Dublin 9 A WORLD IN WHICH CHRISTIANITY CAN THRIVE EVERYWHERE

To deny the reality of Christian Persecution is to deny Christ and His Su ering

Pakistan: A Christian working in a CHINA: The head of a Marian statue HONG KONG: Cardinal Joseph Zen NIGERIA: More than 6,000 Christians sewer in Karachi. among the ruins of a demolished Church. speaks out against Vatican – China deal. have been killed since 2015.

Overwhelmingly, Christians are the most persecuted • In PAKISTAN, many Catholics are forced to work people in the world. This persecution takes many in sewers as they are excluded from employment forms including political, economic, cultural and social unless they profess Islamism. – indeed all religious persecution is a form of violence • In CHINA, many Catholics are imprisoned, tortured against the dignity inherent in every human being. or killed unless they renounce their Faith in favour There are many voices who try to silence and suppress of Communism. the horrific extent of Christian persecution globally, • In NIGERIA, many Catholics su er hellish violence who minimise or mock this reality: yet, for persecuted from Boko Haram and Fulani Herdman, all with the Christians, there is no such thing as crying wolf – their complicity of it’s Muslim government. every cry is a prayer for help, for mercy, for justice. Christian Persecution has been a perennial and perva- Even in the West, many Catholics are excluded from sive reality for 2,000 years. governmental positions and influence unless they accept and promote abortion, homosexual marriage Christians are persecuted for the Faith that we share and wider Communistic principles. with them: please, help ACN Ireland help them.

Please indicate the Yes, I would like to donate to Aid to the Church in Need I would like to make type and number of ✁ I would like to make a monthly donation Aid to the * Masses required. Church in Need wherever the need is greatest of €10 €25 €50 Other € a Mass O ering

TITLE FIRST NAME SURNAME GENERAL TRIDUUM ACNIC_0520

FULL ADDRESS NOVENA GREGORIAN Suggested donation per Mass are as follows: General - €10 | Triduum - €30 | Novena - €70 | Gregorian - €270 DONATION Please tick if you would like PHONE NUMBER EMAIL AMOUNT € an appropriate card sent out. MASS INTENTIONS * If you are a taxpayer, €21 or more I enclose a cheque/postal order payable to Aid to the Church in Need OR a month can go 45% futher towards please debit my MasterCard Visa. ACN’s work at no extra cost to you. Card Number: (Laser only) For Credit Transfers and Direct Debits our bank details are: IBAN IE32 BOFI 9005 7890 6993 28 Valid From: M M Y Y Maestro Issue No. BIC BOFI IE2D Expiry Date: M M Y Y Signature strip code (last 3 digits) Please detach this form and return, with your gi , to the address below. Please complete your personal and payment details and Signature I do not require an acknowledgment. return to the address below.

Registered Charity Numbers: (RoI) 9492 acnireland.org/donate or call us on 01 837 7516 (NI) XR96620 Aid to the Church in Need, 151 St. Mobhi Road, Glasnevin, Dublin 9 10 | Events || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 Out&About Sanctuary Mask Initiative walk the walk

CORK: Residents living in Clonakilty Lodge direct provision are pictured with Friends of Clonakilty and Cork Migrant Centre at Nano Nagle Place. The Sanctuary Mask Initiative (SMI) is a response to Covid-19, which sees women living in direct provision centres sewing hygiene masks for distribution to people in direct provision centres and other vulnerable groups.

DUBLIN: Fr Peter Byrne PP of Ballaly parish puts another cross on their ‘Wall of Crosses’ to FERMANAGH: Fr Jimmy McPhillips PP of the Parish of Aghalurcher has thanked AAA remember those who have died due to Covid-19. They started putting up the crosses at the Pristine Cleaning for cleaning Holy Cross Church to keep it safe for private prayer beginning of the pandemic in Ireland when the first person lost their life due to the virus. during the coronavirus pandemic. This will happen once a week. INSHORT Church in Glenock and the First Communion one day.” (II Peter 3:8) do not feel forced to risk an unsafe return to Tyrone parish get creative Mass, celebrated by Fr Roland Colhoun, went At the end of Mass, Fr Colhoun said that work, the Irish Cancer Society has said. ahead without the children being in attend- First Communion would take place as soon as Cancer patients who are considered despite postponed First ance. possible, but that no one was yet able to give extremely medically vulnerable and are Communion Before the liturgy began, Fr Roland Col- a date. unable to work due to cocooning cannot Although many children won’t be celebrating houn read out the name of each child while Gift bags were also prepared for the currently access the new Covid-19 Enhanced their First Communion this year due to the the parish cameraman, Martin Kerrigan, children which included a specially designed Illness Benefit payment of €350 per week, coronavirus pandemic, a Tyrone parish made carefully focussed the lens on the picture card from the parish, Rosary beads, a Rosary which is only available for those with a sure it was still a special time. drawn by that child. Meanwhile, the children leaflet, a special poem composed for the confirmed or suspected Covid-19 infection. The Parish Pastoral Forum in and their teachers and families were watch- occasion by Anne McDonnell, and a generous This leaves some cancer patients of Newtownstewart arranged a socially distant ing on Facebook Live from their own homes. helping of sweets. working age relying on standard illness celebration which involved each child being In his Homily Fr Colhoun acknowledged benefit or supplementary welfare payments asked to research the life of a saint and the huge disappointment that the postpone- Giving cancer patient of up to €203 per week, causing a financial prepare an A4 page. On the page, each child ment caused the children. pandemic payment hit for those who would otherwise be wrote their own name, the name of their He quoted St Peter who tried to console working. chosen saint, composed a paragraph on the the earliest Christians about the delay in the ‘urgent priority’ The Irish Cancer Society is calling on the saint’s life and drew a picture of the saint. Lord’s return: “With the Lord, a day is like a Cocooning cancer patients must have fair Government to address this by extending the They were presented in St Eugene’s thousand years and a thousand years are like access to pandemic illness payments so they payment to those cancer patients who have 10 | Events || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | Events ||11

Edited by Chai Brady Events deadline is a week in advance of publication Out&About [email protected] Sanctuary Mask Initiative walk the walk

TYRONE: Despite First Communions being postponed due to the current pandemic, in Newtownstewart Fr Roland Colhoun celebrated a Mass without the children being present. Instead they drew pictures and wrote a paragraph about a saint and sent it in, which featured in the livestreamed Mass. They also received gift bags. Photo: Ashlene Canning

CAVAN: Conor and Amelia Burns are pictured at the Fatima Grotto in Kingscourt on the feast day of Our Lady of Fatima.

DUBLIN: Fr Peter Byrne PP of Ballaly parish puts another cross on their ‘Wall of Crosses’ to FERMANAGH: Fr Jimmy McPhillips PP of the Parish of Aghalurcher has thanked AAA ARMAGH: Darren Mallaghan and Tiarnan Donaghy from Sign Reload with Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh remember those who have died due to Covid-19. They started putting up the crosses at the Pristine Cleaning for cleaning Holy Cross Church to keep it safe for private prayer archdiocese outside St Malachy’s Church which has reopened for private prayer with signs and hand sanitiser stations. beginning of the pandemic in Ireland when the first person lost their life due to the virus. during the coronavirus pandemic. This will happen once a week. INSHORT Church in Glenock and the First Communion one day.” (II Peter 3:8) do not feel forced to risk an unsafe return to been asked to cocoon so they can avail for those who cannot work from home. will run from Friday May 29 to Sunday Tyrone parish get creative Mass, celebrated by Fr Roland Colhoun, went At the end of Mass, Fr Colhoun said that work, the Irish Cancer Society has said. of the full €350 weekly illness payment. It is essential that this issue is dealt May 31. despite postponed First ahead without the children being in attend- First Communion would take place as soon as Cancer patients who are considered Irish Cancer Society CEO Averil with as an urgent priority.” Bishop Noel Treanor has invited ance. possible, but that no one was yet able to give extremely medically vulnerable and are Power said: “At the moment everyone to join him as he leads the Communion Before the liturgy began, Fr Roland Col- a date. unable to work due to cocooning cannot patients who have been asked by Down and Connor prayers online via the webcam that can DUBLIN: Ria Noonan, in her Communion dress, was looking Although many children won’t be celebrating houn read out the name of each child while Gift bags were also prepared for the currently access the new Covid-19 Enhanced the Government to cocoon are be accessed on www.churchservices. children which included a specially designed diocesan Pentecost forward to her first Communion on May 16 in the Church their First Communion this year due to the the parish cameraman, Martin Kerrigan, Illness Benefit payment of €350 per week, actually being penalised for following tv/stpeterscathedral from St Peter’s card from the parish, Rosary beads, a Rosary public health advice and protecting of the Assumption, Dalkey, but it was cancelled due to coronavirus pandemic, a Tyrone parish made carefully focussed the lens on the picture which is only available for those with a Triduum Cathedral in Belfast. Each evening leaflet, a special poem composed for the themselves by staying home from work. Covid-19. She is a student of Loreto Primary School Dalkey. sure it was still a special time. drawn by that child. Meanwhile, the children confirmed or suspected Covid-19 infection. Following on from the Diocese of Down will begin at 7pm and will last and their teachers and families were watch- occasion by Anne McDonnell, and a generous This leaves some cancer patients of “We already know of the financial The Parish Pastoral Forum in and Connor’s Diocesan Novena earlier approximately 15 minutes. Intentions Newtownstewart arranged a socially distant ing on Facebook Live from their own homes. helping of sweets. working age relying on standard illness strain a cancer diagnosis causes from this month, the diocese will close the Events may be sent by email to novena@ celebration which involved each child being In his Homily Fr Colhoun acknowledged benefit or supplementary welfare payments our report on the Real Cost of Cancer, month of May with a Triduum of Prayer l downandconnor.org and they will In the current Covid-19 crisis, it is clear that asked to research the life of a saint and the huge disappointment that the postpone- Giving cancer patient of up to €203 per week, causing a financial and now we are receiving calls from to celebrate the feast of Pentecost. most (and perhaps all) Church events, other than be placed in front of the altar and prepare an A4 page. On the page, each child ment caused the children. pandemic payment hit for those who would otherwise be distressed cancer patients who have Over these three days, prayers some Masses, are suspended. Consequently, we wrote their own name, the name of their He quoted St Peter who tried to console working. been financially devastated by being will be offered for the domestic included in the prayers each evening. A are withholding the popular Events Listing column chosen saint, composed a paragraph on the the earliest Christians about the delay in the ‘urgent priority’ The Irish Cancer Society is calling on the unable to work. Church, local parishes and pastoral booklet of the prayers being used in the until normal activities can resume in our parishes. saint’s life and drew a picture of the saint. Lord’s return: “With the Lord, a day is like a Cocooning cancer patients must have fair Government to address this by extending the “As more businesses start to reopen, communities and for the mission of all Triduum can be requested using email However, please do email us if you know of any They were presented in St Eugene’s thousand years and a thousand years are like access to pandemic illness payments so they payment to those cancer patients who have this is becoming an increasing problem Christians in the world. The Triduum address [email protected] parish event planned and we will publish details. 12 | Comment || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 Taking the nation’s spiritual

pulse under lockdown found this had increased to 30%. The poll in April found that 18% of people were praying more than usual. The May survey found this had dropped to 14%. Perhaps this is to be expected as the death toll from the pandemic probably isn’t what people feared it would be when we went into lockdown at the end of March.

It would be When the surprising❛❛ if religious pandemic is people didn’t pray more finally over, than usual when they are the livelihoods worried about someone. In fact, it would be of very many strange if they didn’t” people will be But again, we see differences between men and women. Ten harmed and the per cent of men say there are praying more than usual versus damage will be 18% of women. (An almost identical number of both sexes say there are huge, writes tuning into religious services.) When asked what they are David Quinn praying for, more than 80% of both sexes say they are praying for he pandemic is increasing family members, and an average feelings of anxiety among of 57% say they are praying for the population, with a friends. bigger effect on women A total of 53% said they are than men. This has now been praying at least sometimes. confirmedT by new data from the Is additional prayer a sign of Central Statistics Office (CSO) more anxiety or less? Well, it which is tracking the effect of this would be surprising if religious unprecedented situation on the people didn’t pray more than lives of people, including their usual when they are worried mental health. about someone. In fact, it would The latest CSO release on the be strange if they didn’t. Anxiety subject is called ‘Social Impact of can be debilitating, but it is also Covid-19 on Women and Men’. It perfectly natural and can be a sign was conducted in April. Among that you care enough to be anxious. its findings is that whereas 22% of But prayer can also bring peace, men reported a drop in feelings of life satisfaction in that month, which is why it would be good to men want to return the workplace would be good to have more detail increasing their consumption of among women the figure is much somehow find out if those who as before (48.6% vs 31.7%). on this score. alcohol, tobacco and junk food, higher at 36.7%. If people are praying more at the moment are More interesting is that many although the level of increase is surveyed again in May, what will it better able to cope with anxiety show? members of both sexes would like A first poll, clearly key. and with the present situation. The report also finds that to combine going into work with ❛❛ When people are at home more, Lots of international studies women are more anxious about working from home (60.9% of men conducted in mid-April, you would expect this to happen to show that people who engage in themselves and other people than and 48.6% of women). Perhaps this found that 27% of people a certain extent. regular religious practice are less men are, and in addition have will become the new normal for a Needless to say, the CSO report likely to suffer from depression, for increased their consumption of lot of people, if their employers are have watched a religious does not look at differences instance. alcohol, tobacco and junk food agreeable. service since lockdown between those who practice In fact, a new study from more than men have. Only 6.6% of men and 6.9% of religion and those who do not. Harvard University which tracked women would prefer to stay at began...this increased to However, a poll conducted tens of thousands of medical home altogether. by Amarach Research, and Clear majority 30% a month later” personnel found that those who In keeping with the above, women I found it a bit surprising that commissioned by the Iona Institute attend religious services at least are more likely than men to keep more women than men want to get In any case, it is to be expected (which I head) does throw some once a week are less likely to suffer to the official advice about staying back to the work practices they had that more people are experiencing light on the matter. ‘deaths from despair’ (suicide, drug safe, although a clear majority in before the lockdown. Maybe they a drop in life satisfaction at the A first poll, conducted in mid- or alcohol abuse etc) than those both cases is doing so (72% of men work closer to home anyway, or moment, even if a clear majority April, found that 27% of people who do not. and 88% of women). find their jobs more satisfying, or are not yet at that stage. have watched a religious service This seems like a very relevant Another finding is that women are working part-time already, or It is worrying, but predictable, since lockdown began. The latest finding at this time. When the with children have seen their want a break from the children? It that some are responding by poll, conducted a month later, pandemic is finally over, the feelings of anxiety climb by more economic damage will be huge. The than men with children. Perhaps It is worrying, but predictable, that some are livelihoods of very many people this is because they are having to ❛❛ will be harmed for a long time do more of the childcare work. to come. This always brings a big It could also be linked to the fact responding by increasing their consumption of personal toll. that they are feeling more anxious Rarely was the solace and anyway. alcohol, tobacco and junk food, although the level of comfort that comes from religious Maybe related to this is the belief more badly needed than finding that more women than increase is clearly key” right now. 12 | Comment || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 Strengthen devotion to the Blessed Sacrament with Taking the nation’s spiritual

pulse under lockdown found this had increased to 30%. The poll in April found that 18% of people were praying more than Adoration Companion usual. The May survey found this had dropped to 14%. Perhaps this is to be expected as the death toll from the pandemic probably isn’t what people feared it would be when we went into lockdown at the end of March.

It would be Encourage your congregation to When the surprising❛❛ if religious stay proactive in their prayer life pandemic is people didn’t pray more with Magnificat’s latest offering. finally over, than usual when they are the livelihoods worried about someone. Perfect for live streaming from In fact, it would be of very many strange if they didn’t” home or praying in church, this people will be But again, we see differences between men and women. Ten precious tool features: harmed and the per cent of men say there are praying more than usual versus damage will be 18% of women. (An almost identical • Practical suggestions for adoration and number of both sexes say there are huge, writes tuning into religious services.) explanations of this ancient practice When asked what they are David Quinn praying for, more than 80% of both sexes say they are praying for • Programs of Adoration in Time of Need he pandemic is increasing family members, and an average feelings of anxiety among of 57% say they are praying for the population, with a friends. • Profiles of saints who were known for bigger effect on women A total of 53% said they are than men. This has now been praying at least sometimes. their devotion to the Blessed Sacrament confirmedT by new data from the Is additional prayer a sign of Central Statistics Office (CSO) more anxiety or less? Well, it which is tracking the effect of this would be surprising if religious • Scripture and meditations unprecedented situation on the people didn’t pray more than lives of people, including their usual when they are worried mental health. about someone. In fact, it would • Prayers, hymns, and litanies The latest CSO release on the be strange if they didn’t. Anxiety subject is called ‘Social Impact of can be debilitating, but it is also Covid-19 on Women and Men’. It perfectly natural and can be a sign PRICE: € . was conducted in April. Among that you care enough to be anxious. INCLUDING POSTAGE its findings is that whereas 22% of But prayer can also bring peace, men reported a drop in feelings of life satisfaction in that month, which is why it would be good to men want to return the workplace would be good to have more detail increasing their consumption of among women the figure is much somehow find out if those who as before (48.6% vs 31.7%). on this score. alcohol, tobacco and junk food, higher at 36.7%. If people are praying more at the moment are TO ORDER: More interesting is that many although the level of increase is surveyed again in May, what will it better able to cope with anxiety show? members of both sexes would like A first poll, clearly key. and with the present situation. A 01 6874024 M [email protected] www.irishcatholic.com/shop The report also finds that to combine going into work with ❛❛ When people are at home more, Lots of international studies women are more anxious about working from home (60.9% of men conducted in mid-April, you would expect this to happen to show that people who engage in and 48.6% of women). Perhaps this a certain extent. regular religious practice are less BULK themselves and other people than found that 27% of people Or send us the order form below men are, and in addition have will become the new normal for a Needless to say, the CSO report likely to suffer from depression, for lot of people, if their employers are have watched a religious does not look at differences instance. DISCOUNTS increased their consumption of METHOD OF PAYMENT alcohol, tobacco and junk food agreeable. service since lockdown between those who practice In fact, a new study from AVAILABLE more than men have. Only 6.6% of men and 6.9% of religion and those who do not. Harvard University which tracked women would prefer to stay at began...this increased to However, a poll conducted tens of thousands of medical ☐ PAY BY: Cheque/Postal order for € ______payable to: The Irish Catholic home altogether. by Amarach Research, and Clear majority 30% a month later” personnel found that those who In keeping with the above, women I found it a bit surprising that commissioned by the Iona Institute attend religious services at least ☐ PAY BY CREDIT CARD: ☐Visa ☐ MasterCard ☐ Laser more women than men want to get (which I head) does throw some are more likely than men to keep In any case, it is to be expected once a week are less likely to suffer POST IT TO : to the official advice about staying back to the work practices they had that more people are experiencing light on the matter. ‘deaths from despair’ (suicide, drug Card No: safe, although a clear majority in before the lockdown. Maybe they a drop in life satisfaction at the A first poll, conducted in mid- or alcohol abuse etc) than those THE IRISH CATHOLIC, both cases is doing so (72% of men work closer to home anyway, or moment, even if a clear majority April, found that 27% of people who do not. / and 88% of women). find their jobs more satisfying, or are not yet at that stage. have watched a religious service This seems like a very relevant Exp date: CVV No: Another finding is that women are working part-time already, or It is worrying, but predictable, since lockdown began. The latest finding at this time. When the with children have seen their want a break from the children? It that some are responding by poll, conducted a month later, pandemic is finally over, the MY DETAILS feelings of anxiety climb by more economic damage will be huge. The than men with children. Perhaps livelihoods of very many people Name this is because they are having to It is worrying, but predictable, that some are will be harmed for a long time do more of the childcare work. ❛❛ to come. This always brings a big Address City It could also be linked to the fact responding by increasing their consumption of personal toll. that they are feeling more anxious Rarely was the solace and anyway. alcohol, tobacco and junk food, although the level of comfort that comes from religious Phone Number Email Maybe related to this is the belief more badly needed than finding that more women than increase is clearly key” right now. 14 | Feature || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 ‘The voice of prayer on Lough Derg is not going to be silenced by Covid-19’

Prior Fr La Flynn is preparing to move to Station Island for the traditional pilgrimage season.

together. Fr La will also make are prevented from making He has already set up a is conscious that things one station prayer in his bare the pilgrimage,” Fr La says. sub-group that has begun won’t proceed as usual. feet every day. He is also inviting people to work through the public “We wouldn’t be able to While the island – at to join in the full pilgrimage health protocols to ensure have the weekend numbers least at the beginning of the with him remotely on the that staff feel safe and that we would normally season – will not physically last weekend of June (26- happy to receive pilgrims “in have…so there’d be a call welcome pilgrims, Fr La has 28). This, Fr La says, is “not confidence and safety”. to be made about what our been inspired by the many a virtual pilgrimage in the capacity might be”. This petitions that he receives sense that the invitation Fr La is will mean implementing online from all over the will be for people to keep ❛❛ a booking process rather world asking for prayers. He vigil and make the stations conscious that the than the tradition of people While it is not yet possible responds to each request at home just as if they were just turning up to join the personally and, more physically present on the Covid-19 lockdown pilgrimage. to welcome pilgrims, the importantly, brings every island”. is having a intention to prayer. He is optimistic that he Pilgrimage spiritual storehouse that is So far, Lough Derg will be able to welcome dramatic effect on Fr La says he has been “very has successfully hosted a actual pilgrims later in the people emotionally, moved” by the numbers of Lough Derg is very much open number of one-day retreats season. “By the current people who are determined to online during the month of version of the roadmap we spiritually and come once the island is open. Fr La Flynn tells Michael Kelly May. Fr La says the response would be hopeful that we Those who will be joining would be able to open for mentally” Fr La on the pilgrimage from n a normal year, Lough prayerful presence until has been overwhelming while admitting it’s been a the last week in July and the When the island does afar on the last weekend in Derg in Co. Donegal pilgrims are free to join him August fortnight” he says. re-open for pilgrims, Fr La June are not the first pilgrims would now be putting when restrictions are lifted. “very different experience”. the finishing touches to Fr La insists that his “We are still here, and in plans to welcome pilgrims presence is a reminder some sense we are offering Ito the penitential island. But “that Lough Derg hasn’t to go on pilgrimage and to these are not normal times. gone away, and while at meet people where they The coronavirus pandemic this particular stage people are,” he says. has jettisoned many a plan cannot yet physically come Fr La is modest about and – at least for now – the to us, my sense was that it his decision to move to the pilgrimage site known as St was my place to be there”. island and demurs at any Patrick’s Purgatory will not suggestion that it is heroic welcome visitors for the tra- Routine or he is taking on the life of ditional three-day pilgrimage. He is also determined to a hermit. But, conscious that try to keep up some of “You could say that, in pilgrims have been drawn the normal routine of the a sense. But, I wouldn’t be to Lough Derg from ancient island so that pilgrims pushing that…I wouldn’t like times, the current prior Fr know it is there as a to overstate it,” he says. La Flynn has decided that powerhouse of prayer. He “It’s important for me he will move to the island will celebrate Mass each that it would be authentic, next month – the day when morning at 6.30am and and that it would be a pilgrims would normally recite night payer at 9.30pm symbol of solidarity for be expected – and remain – the traditional times people who would normally on the island keeping a that pilgrims would gather come and would have a strong desire to come but The barefoot stations are an integral part of the Lough Derg experience. 14 | Feature || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | Feature ||15 ‘The voice of prayer on Lough Derg is not going to be silenced by Covid-19’

Pilgrims make their stations at the water’s edge St Patrick’s Cross, the only thing that remained after the Reformation destruction of the Island. to complete the Lough Derg special pilgrimage on board “They’ll be on ‘pilgrim’s the loss of livelihoods, he experience at a distance the ship when it was moored honour’,” Fr La says, “that is conscious that people from the lake [after the from the island. Almost in Belfast Lough in August. The are missing the public “And that’s particularly if they register they will do destruction],” he says. a century ago in 1921, a prison chaplain sent the prior celebration of Mass and true for Lough Derg. It’s true the whole pilgrimage with For many centuries, group of detainees from the a list of the names and they other liturgies. But he is also from season to season, and the fast, vigil and stations pilgrims have come to Prior Fr La Flynn is preparing to move to Station Island for the traditional pilgrimage season. prison camp in Ballykinlar too received a commemorative at home.” conscious that the enduring from century to century. in Co. Down performed the medal to mark the occasion. presence of Lough Derg is a Lough Derg from all over But it’s particularly true of the known world. It’s clear pilgrimage in the camp after “This was a real sign of hope and a promise the 10 or 11 weeks of the that Fr La is conscious of permission was sought from pilgrimage without the Fr La has been that things will get better, three-day pilgrimage. That together. Fr La will also make are prevented from making He has already set up a is conscious that things ❛❛ the mantle he now carries the prior. The pilgrimage travel,” Fr La insists, “and for the island too has known from those who come at the one station prayer in his bare the pilgrimage,” Fr La says. sub-group that has begun won’t proceed as usual. inspired by the as prior. “What is entrusted He is also inviting people to work through the public lasted from August 11-15 that’s what we’re proposing tough times. beginning of June, to those feet every day. “We wouldn’t be able to to us is the tradition of While the island – at to join in the full pilgrimage health protocols to ensure have the weekend numbers and the prisoners performed to offer this year as well: to many petitions that In October 1632, who leave on August 15, the Lough Derg. And at this least at the beginning of the with him remotely on the that staff feel safe and that we would normally three extra stations as the make the pilgrimage – the the Protestant Bishop vigil goes on from day to day he receives online particular absolutely season – will not physically last weekend of June (26- happy to receive pilgrims “in have…so there’d be a call governor would not allow full pilgrimage – on three of Clogher James – and the voice of prayer is the 24-hour vigil. All other days Saturday, June 27 to Spottiswoode personally unique time the challenge welcome pilgrims, Fr La has 28). This, Fr La says, is “not confidence and safety”. to be made about what our from all over the never silent. regulations of the pilgrimage Monday, June 29. supervised the destruction for us is to ask: ‘how can we been inspired by the many a virtual pilgrimage in the capacity might be”. This “That’s what is entrusted were performed and the prior “We are going to offer world asking for of everything on the island. be faithful to the tradition petitions that he receives sense that the invitation Fr La is will mean implementing to us – and that’s why I’m online from all over the will be for people to keep a booking process rather had commemorative medals people the chance to register Well, almost everything. of Lough Derg?’” ❛❛ prayers” Fr La answers his own going to the island: to, in world asking for prayers. He vigil and make the stations conscious that the than the tradition of people struck for the prisoners and and join with me in making “For me, the most Fr La is conscious that the some humble way, be a token responds to each request at home just as if they were just turning up to join the presented them to each of the pilgrimage – but they’ll moving stone on Lough question by quoting the hymn While it is not yet possible of the fact that the voice of personally and, more physically present on the Covid-19 lockdown pilgrimage. the men who took part. Two be registering to make Covid-19 lockdown is having Derg is the column that The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, prayer on Lough Derg is not to welcome pilgrims, the importantly, brings every island”. is having a years later, 194 Republican the pilgrimage with the a dramatic effect on people we call St Patrick’s Cross is Ended where the hymnist intention to prayer. He is optimistic that he Pilgrimage internees on board the prison full pilgrimage exercises emotionally, spiritually – as far as we know it was asserts that “the voice of going to be silenced by Covid- spiritual storehouse that is So far, Lough Derg will be able to welcome dramatic effect on Fr La says he has been “very ship Argenta took part in a wherever they are.” and mentally. As well as the only thing retrieved prayer is never silent”. 19,” Fr La says. has successfully hosted a actual pilgrims later in the people emotionally, moved” by the numbers of Lough Derg is very much open number of one-day retreats season. “By the current people who are determined to online during the month of version of the roadmap we spiritually and come once the island is open. Fr La Flynn tells Michael Kelly May. Fr La says the response would be hopeful that we Those who will be joining would be able to open for mentally” Fr La on the pilgrimage from MEMORIAL n a normal year, Lough prayerful presence until has been overwhelming while admitting it’s been a the last week in July and the When the island does afar on the last weekend in Derg in Co. Donegal pilgrims are free to join him August fortnight” he says. re-open for pilgrims, Fr La June are not the first pilgrims would now be putting when restrictions are lifted. “very different experience”. the finishing touches to Fr La insists that his “We are still here, and in LOUGH DERG MEMORIAL FOR THOSE WHO HAVE DIED BOOK plans to welcome pilgrims presence is a reminder some sense we are offering Ito the penitential island. But “that Lough Derg hasn’t to go on pilgrimage and to IN COVID 19 PANDEMIC these are not normal times. gone away, and while at meet people where they AT LOUGH DERG space in St Mary’s Chapel, alongside the The coronavirus pandemic this particular stage people are,” he says. In these months an increasing number of has jettisoned many a plan cannot yet physically come Fr La is modest about prayer petitions have come to Lough Derg, books of In Memoriam cards of former We invite you to visit and – at least for now – the to us, my sense was that it his decision to move to the often including mention of loved ones lost Lough Derg pilgrims. In this way we can island and demurs at any pilgrimage site known as St was my place to be there”. to Covid-19. also appreciate and give God thanks for the our dedicated Patrick’s Purgatory will not suggestion that it is heroic Moved by the prayers that ask us to precious life of each one, and all that they welcome visitors for the tra- Routine or he is taking on the life of webpage at ditional three-day pilgrimage. He is also determined to a hermit. remember these people and families and meant to those who knew and loved them. But, conscious that try to keep up some of “You could say that, in friends that mourn them, we propose to www.loughderg.org pilgrims have been drawn the normal routine of the a sense. But, I wouldn’t be open a dedicated book to honour their pushing that…I wouldn’t like to submit the name of to Lough Derg from ancient island so that pilgrims memory. It will rest in the ‘In Memoriam’ times, the current prior Fr know it is there as a to overstate it,” he says. Prior La Flynn your loved one, date La Flynn has decided that powerhouse of prayer. He “It’s important for me he will move to the island will celebrate Mass each that it would be authentic, of death, photograph next month – the day when morning at 6.30am and and that it would be a Lough Derg phone lines are open 9.00am – 5.00pm Mon-Friday during May - Tel: +353 (0) 71 9861518 symbol of solidarity for Contact the team by email [email protected] and on the Lough Derg social platforms. (optional), and a text pilgrims would normally recite night payer at 9.30pm be expected – and remain – the traditional times people who would normally Main website - www.loughderg.org on the island keeping a that pilgrims would gather come and would have a of 10 words or less. strong desire to come but The barefoot stations are an integral part of the Lough Derg experience. 16 | Feature || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020

The pro-life The abortion issue has largely shrunk movement has from the national headlines, but it hasn’t gone away a huge base writes Eilís Mulroy

wo years ago this week Article 40.3.3 of the Constitution, or of support to the Eighth Amend- ment as it was known, was repealedT by the Irish people. The referendum result was a cruel blow to unborn build for the children, abolishing their constitutional right to life. It was also a serious blow to the pro-life movement, and the many thousands future of activists across Ireland who campaigned for the rights of the unborn over several decades. Many were understandably very hurt and deflated by the result. However, since the disappointment, the pro-life movement has redoubled its efforts working to reorient our messaging in a way which can tap into the A pro-life poster is seen in front of Christ Church Cathedral wellspring of support for the in Dublin during the referendum. Photos: CNS dignity of human life which we know still exists in the hearts of the Irish people. to be disheartened in the we have been consistently The pro-life movement is face of this new reality of lobbying members of the very much open for business, abortion on demand, but Oireachtas and other policy and there remains so much we cannot and will not lose makers in relation to the work to be done. hope or disengage from our tragic loss of life in nursing activism. homes around the country. We know that one third Once the pandemic ends, If we are to of those who voted on Ireland needs to have a very ❛❛convince voters of May 25, 2018 opposed the serious conversation about legalisation of abortion, how it treats its elderly the value of life, and that a large number population and end-of-life of those who supported care more generally. The then we have to repeal did not endorse failures which have been invest in a new the extreme proposals highlighted in recent weeks which have since been may well have a seismic talent pool of implemented. This gives the impact on how Irish people young and talented pro-life movement a huge view these issues. base of support on which volunteers” we can build for the future. Since the dis- Readers will recall that Once Irish people see the ❛❛ Pro-life protesters hold up banners on a bridge in Dublin before voters went to the polls despite a strong lobbying cruel reality of abortion in appointment, the two years ago. campaign and courageous action, they will be open pro-life movement unplanned pregnancy and number of training sessions We encourage everyone to work by pro-life members of to be persuaded to support new mothers. We are asking and webinars with guests get involved in some of the the Dáil and Seanad, humane sensible restrictions on the has redoubled its people to run or walk 5km such as Mickey Harte and recent projects and never amendments to the abortion practice in the future and efforts working during June. Volunteers can David Alton. This week an give up fighting for justice law were rejected by the hopefully ultimately repeal sign up or donate on www. online communications for unborn children and their Oireachtas in late 2018. These of this unjust law. to reorient our loveboth.ie workshops for volunteers mothers in Ireland. We have ramped up our included measures which If we are to convince hosted by Wendy Grace will So, far from dwelling work in recent months, messaging” would have protected babies voters of the value of life, take place and on June 6 a on the disappointment of broadening our focus from being aborted on the In the short term, pro- then we have to invest in webinar with Deputy Carol the referendum result two to issues which rarely basis of disability, would have life people are doing all a new talent pool of young Nolan and others. years ago, the Irish pro- insisted on the use of pain generate headlines but they can to assist those in and talented volunteers The lockdown has also life movement is a hive of relief for the baby during which are still at the core need at the present time. who can lead those efforts. prompted Students For Life activity – even in the face abortion and care for any child of our work to defend the Through our Covid Outreach, And so over the summer to launch a new video series of the Covid-19 crisis. The who survived the procedure. dignity of life at all stages our volunteers have been months, our Future Leaders The Outlook where students fight goes on, and the work Since the government’s from conception to natural checking in with elderly and Programme will be giving will interview fellow students abortion legislation came death. Regularly rolling out house confined friends of the intensive training to and well-known faces in the of the pro-life movement into force on January 1, 2019, new initiatives is engaging pro-life movement during younger pro-life volunteers pro-life community over the will persevere, underpinned the abortion issue has largely pro-life activists again after this difficult time, keeping in to equip them with the coming months. by the joyous message of shrunk from the national the loss in 2018. touch with over 1,000 people communication skills and None of this would be the value of human life, headlines. But it hasn’t gone The Covid-19 crisis has so far. This work will continue motivation to spread our achievable without the which resonates deeply away. Sadly, this legislation is changed all of our lives, until the end of the crisis. message in the media and in consistent support and with Irish people. having a silent impact every particularly for the elderly This week we have their communities. dedication of pro-life i Eilís Mulroy is a solicitor day, all across the country. and more vulnerable launched a June Fundraising The PLC Grassroots volunteers around the and a spokesperson for the It would be easy for members of society. Since Challenge to raise money for Network is growing and in country who continue to fly Pro Life Campaign www. the pro-life movement the outset of the pandemic, projects assisting women in recent weeks has hosted a the flag despite the setbacks. prolifecampaign.ie 16 | Feature || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020

The pro-life The abortion issue has largely shrunk movement has The from the national headlines, but it Irish SpiritMay 28th, 2020 hasn’t gone away a huge base Issue No. 3 writes Eilís Mulroy wo years ago this week Article 40.3.3 of the Constitution, or of support to the Eighth Amend- ment as it was known, was repealedT by the Irish people. The referendum result was a cruel blow to unborn build for the children, abolishing their constitutional right to life. It was also a serious blow The Birthday of to the pro-life movement, and the many thousands future of activists across Ireland who campaigned for the rights of the unborn over several decades. Many were understandably very hurt and deflated by the result. However, since the the Church disappointment, the pro-life movement has redoubled its Silvester O’Flynn OFM writes on the efforts working to reorient our messaging in a way which can tap into the A pro-life poster is seen in front of Christ Church Cathedral beautiful message of Pentecost wellspring of support for the in Dublin during the referendum. Photos: CNS dignity of human life which we know still exists in the hearts of the Irish people. to be disheartened in the we have been consistently RESISTING TEMPTATION The pro-life movement is face of this new reality of lobbying members of the very much open for business, abortion on demand, but Oireachtas and other policy and there remains so much we cannot and will not lose makers in relation to the work to be done. hope or disengage from our tragic loss of life in nursing activism. homes around the country. We know that one third Once the pandemic ends, An exclusive excerpt from If we are to of those who voted on Ireland needs to have a very ❛❛convince voters of May 25, 2018 opposed the serious conversation about legalisation of abortion, how it treats its elderly the value of life, and that a large number population and end-of-life care more generally. The Freedom from Evil Spirits of those who supported then we have to repeal did not endorse failures which have been invest in a new the extreme proposals highlighted in recent weeks which have since been may well have a seismic talent pool of implemented. This gives the impact on how Irish people by Fr Pat Collins young and talented pro-life movement a huge view these issues. base of support on which volunteers” we can build for the future. Since the dis- PRAYING DURING PENTECOST Readers will recall that Once Irish people see the ❛❛ Pro-life protesters hold up banners on a bridge in Dublin before voters went to the polls despite a strong lobbying cruel reality of abortion in appointment, the two years ago. campaign and courageous action, they will be open pro-life movement unplanned pregnancy and number of training sessions We encourage everyone to work by pro-life members of to be persuaded to support new mothers. We are asking and webinars with guests get involved in some of the the Dáil and Seanad, humane sensible restrictions on the has redoubled its people to run or walk 5km such as Mickey Harte and recent projects and never amendments to the abortion practice in the future and during June. Volunteers can David Alton. This week an give up fighting for justice hopefully ultimately repeal efforts working The Litany to law were rejected by the sign up or donate on www. online communications for unborn children and their Oireachtas in late 2018. These of this unjust law. to reorient our loveboth.ie workshops for volunteers mothers in Ireland. We have ramped up our included measures which If we are to convince hosted by Wendy Grace will So, far from dwelling work in recent months, messaging” would have protected babies voters of the value of life, take place and on June 6 a on the disappointment of broadening our focus from being aborted on the In the short term, pro- then we have to invest in webinar with Deputy Carol the referendum result two basis of disability, would have to issues which rarely life people are doing all a new talent pool of young Nolan and others. the Holy Spirit years ago, the Irish pro- insisted on the use of pain generate headlines but they can to assist those in and talented volunteers The lockdown has also life movement is a hive of relief for the baby during which are still at the core need at the present time. who can lead those efforts. prompted Students For Life activity – even in the face abortion and care for any child of our work to defend the Through our Covid Outreach, And so over the summer to launch a new video series of the Covid-19 crisis. The who survived the procedure. dignity of life at all stages our volunteers have been months, our Future Leaders The Outlook where students ....and much more! fight goes on, and the work Since the government’s from conception to natural checking in with elderly and Programme will be giving will interview fellow students abortion legislation came death. Regularly rolling out house confined friends of the intensive training to and well-known faces in the of the pro-life movement into force on January 1, 2019, new initiatives is engaging pro-life movement during younger pro-life volunteers pro-life community over the will persevere, underpinned the abortion issue has largely pro-life activists again after this difficult time, keeping in to equip them with the coming months. by the joyous message of shrunk from the national the loss in 2018. touch with over 1,000 people communication skills and None of this would be the value of human life, headlines. But it hasn’t gone The Covid-19 crisis has so far. This work will continue motivation to spread our achievable without the which resonates deeply away. Sadly, this legislation is changed all of our lives, until the end of the crisis. message in the media and in consistent support and with Irish people. having a silent impact every particularly for the elderly This week we have their communities. dedication of pro-life i Eilís Mulroy is a solicitor day, all across the country. and more vulnerable launched a June Fundraising The PLC Grassroots volunteers around the and a spokesperson for the It would be easy for members of society. Since Challenge to raise money for Network is growing and in country who continue to fly Pro Life Campaign www. the pro-life movement the outset of the pandemic, projects assisting women in recent weeks has hosted a the flag despite the setbacks. prolifecampaign.ie 18 | The Irish Spirit May 28, 2020 Birthday of the Church

By Silvester O’Flynn OFM

entecost celebrates the birthday of the Church. Jesus once compared himself to a seed dying in the earth so as to produce multiple grains. PIn Saint John’s account of the death of Jesus his last words were “It is accomplished.” Job done. Then bowing his head, he “gave up his spirit”, a Jewish way of saying that he returned the breath of life to the Father. After the death of Jesus, the Apostles were totally lost, locked behind closed doors, paralysed in fear. And then the Risen Lord appeared among them, identifying himself by the wounds of crucifixion. “As the Father sent me, so am I sending you.” The mission of Jesus was accomplished and now it was being handed on to the Apostles. But how could they take it up? Then the Risen Lord breathed on them … the life-giving breath which was returned to the Father on Calvary was now bestowed on the Apostles. “Receive the Holy Spirit.” The seed of the mission of Jesus had now blossomed and multiplied in the mission of the Church. The immediate impact on the Apostles was startling. Previously they were locked behind closed doors, full of fear and Pentecost, Titian, 1545 not knowing what to do. Wonderfully transformed, they emerged full of

wisdom and courage, with a very clear sense of their mission. The promise of power from on high had been fulfilled. ‘As the Father sent me, so am I sending you.’ The Apostles were instructed to carry on the mission in a twofold way. The mission of Jesus was accomplished and “For those whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven.” The Church, founded on the Apostles, continues to celebrate the mercy of God with the repenting now it was being handed on to the Apostles. sinner. But to those who have not turned away from sin, the Church continues the warning of Jesus that they are retained in sin until they repent. But how could they take it up?” Many people have favourite places of pilgrimage where they feel close to God. Perhaps the most important pilgrimage is the journey inwards to recognise the presence of God with us and within us. In Saint Paul’s Letter to the Romans he tells us, “The Spirit of God has made his home in you.” Then he adds that when we do not know how to pray, the Holy Spirit within us prays in ways beyond the scope of words. The indwelling of God is like a secret room. Jesus once said that when we pray, we should go into that secret room, close the door, and be attentive to God within us. Every Sunday at Mass we profess our belief in the Holy Spirit as the Lord and Giver of life. Lord indicates that the Holy Spirit is divine. Giver of Life recognises that the Holy Spirit is the power of spiritual growth. Jesus compared the Holy Spirit to the wind. We do not see the wind but we can see its effects in the racing of clouds, the slanting of smoke or the scampering of fallen leaves. Similarly we do not see the Holy Spirit but we recognise the effects of the Holy Spirit in the presence of wisdom, prayerfulness, extraordinary courage, forgiveness, generosity and love. The Church is the community of Spirit-filled believers. Enjoy your birthday today!

Send forth your Spirit, O Lord and renew the face of the earth. May 28, 2020 The Irish Spirit |19

SEVENTH WEEK OF EASTER:

THURSDAY ACTS 22:30; 23:6-11 | JOHN 17:20-26

1. We are coming very close to Pentecost Sunday. Our Gospel reading takes us into the mind and heart of Jesus in his farewell prayer for the future Church. He prays not only for the disciples but also for the disciples of later times. The great desire in his heart is that they might all be one. Sadly, there have been many splits and divisions. Today’s First Reading tells of the divisions between Sadducees and Pharisees in the Jewish world. Christians, followers of Jesus Christ, are in no position to point the finger at others. Our history is marked with differences, disputes, divisions, hatred and prejudice. Religious wars are a horrible contradiction but they are still happening. Ecumenism is encouraging us to move on from past prejudices: to see the grace of God in other traditions: to learn from one another. “Father, may they all be one… as you are in me and I am in you.” 2. Jesus prayed: “May the love with which you loved me may be in them, and so may I be in them.” Sunday on Pentecost, we will celebrate the coming of the Spirit of Divine Love. Tongues of fire came to rest on the heads of the apostles. The tongues were separate but all were parts of the one fire, the fire of God’s love. Preparing for Pentecost, we unite in the prayer of Jesus that all may be one. Prayer As we prepare for the Feast of Pentecost, we pray with the Response: Come, O Holy Spirit. May the Holy Spirit help us all to heal the misunderstandings Saint Paul delivering the Areopagus Sermon, Raphael, 1515 of the past so that all Christians will be united in the love of Christ. FRIDAY prepare for the Feast of the Coming of the Holy Spirit, Come, O Holy Spirit let us pray for the constant renewal of a Church in ACTS 25:13-21 | JOHN 21:15-19 For all divided families: may they move on from the humble service and trusting love. wrongs and hurts of the past to the joy of being reunited. 1. Today’s Gospel recalls the day when the Risen Lord Come, O Holy Spirit appointed Peter as the leader of the community of his Prayer For an end to all racial prejudice and tribal hatred. For followers. Jesus once identified himself as the Good As we come close to the Feast of Pentecost, let us pray justice and peace in every land. Shepherd who was willing to lay down his life for the with the Response: Come, O Holy Spirit. Come, O Holy Spirit flock. When his earthly life was over, he appointed Peter For Pope (Name), the successor of Saint Peter as the That God’s love might be in us so that we become to be the principal shepherd: “Feed my lambs, feed my chief shepherd of the flock: may the Holy Spirit fill him bringers of love to others. sheep.” And he predicted that Peter also would lay down with divine wisdom, warm compassion and courage in Come, O Holy Spirit his life for his beliefs. What we might call the interview facing problems. (Add prayers for personal, local or topical intentions) for the role of leader is unusual. Three times Jesus asked Come, O Holy Spirit. Come, Holy Spirit: renew the unity of the Church; renew him, “Do you love me?” One obvious interpretation That all people in positions of authority might use their the face of the Earth. of the three times links the occasion with the night power in humble service. when Peter had three times denied that he had any Come, O Holy Spirit. association with Jesus. The third time Jesus asked him, Gospel Reflections For all who are burdened with guilt from sins of the “Do you love me?,” Peter was really upset. The probing past: like Peter, may they experience the loving mercy and Prayers question moved Peter to cast away any mask and to of the Risen Lord. PRICE: €19.99 reveal his inner heart. “Lord, you know everything; you Come, O Holy Spirit. A 01 6874096 know that I love you.” It was an upsetting process, but May the Holy Spirit renew the face of the Earth by M [email protected] the Lord used it to help Peter recognise all the loyalty inspiring all people to put aside the weapons of war www.columbabooks.com that was deep in his heart, though for a time it was and to enable all nations to live in peace. or send a cheque to: hidden under feelings of guilt. Come, O Holy Spirit. Columba Books, 23 Merrion 2. The unusual interview used by the Risen Jesus (Add prayers for personal, local or topical Square, Dublin 2, D02 XE02. focused on two qualities required for Christian intentions) leadership. The first quality is a humble awareness of Father of mercy, send your Holy Spirit to cleanse our one’s own frailty. The second quality is love for Jesus, hearts of sin and to strengthen our love and loyalty. FREE POSTAGE ON ALL ORDERS greater than any other love. Coupled with this love is This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ, your Son, our absolute trust in the power of the Holy Spirit. As we Lord. Amen. 20 | The Irish Spirit May 28, 2020

Exclusive Excerpt from Freedom from Evil Spirits by Pat Collins CM

he temptation to sin is his Summa Theologiae, St Thomas a characteristic of every Aquinas says that the proper role Thuman life. In Genesis we of the devil is to tempt. are told how Adam and Eve were How to resist tempted by the devil in the Garden Overcoming of Eden. Even Jesus, the Son of temptation God, experienced such temptation St Paul said in a reassuring way, in the wilderness. Speaking about “No temptation has overtaken the three temptations of Jesus in you except what is common to the course of a general audience mankind. And God is faithful; he on the 22nd February 2012, Pope will not let you be tempted beyond temptation Benedict XVI said that Satan sought what you can bear. But when you to draw Jesus from being a messiah are tempted, he will also provide a of self-sacrifice to a messiah of way out so that you can endure it.” Fighting temptation is a power. During his period in the I think we would have to say that wilderness Jesus was exposed this promise presupposes that the difficult task, but through to danger and was assaulted by person being tempted is mature, temptations which were far from self-aware, and utterly reliant on prayer and fasting we become God’s plan because they involved God. Because that isn’t always more adept at resisting Satan power, success and domination the case, many people, despite rather than the total gift of self their good intentions, do give in and his tricks. on the Cross. Heb 4:15, summed to temptation. The evil they wish up the situation when it said, “For to avoid is the very thing they do. we do not have a high priest who There is an interesting example is unable to empathise with our of this paradox in the gospels. St Peter’s good intentions, Satan weaknesses, but we have one who Peter loved Jesus. He promised Once we grow in self-knowledge, has been tempted in every way, to go to Jerusalem with him, and would exploit his weaknesses we will be aware from personal during Passion Week. Surprisingly, just as we are - yet he did not sin.” if necessary, to die with him. But experience which occasion of sin we most The English words tempt Jesus knew his friend through and he didn’t pray that Peter would and temptation are derived from through. He responded, “Simon, overcome temptation. He knew need to prayerfully avoid.” Latin and mean “to test” or “to Simon, listen! Satan has sought that a fall was inevitable because try the strength of something.” permission to sift all of you like the spiritual life of Peter was built lack of humble self-awareness. So “Satan himself masquerades as an wheat, but I have prayed for you Theology says that while God on the sand of presumption and a he prayed instead, that when Peter angel of light.” What he meant may test a person’s fidelity by that your faith may not fail; and you, had fallen, he would not be by this is that in the case of good allowing him or her to endure when once you have turned filled with such despairing people, the devil doesn’t try to all kinds of trials, tribulations and back, strengthen your self-contempt that like get them to commit serious sin temptations, God never does the brothers.” Jesus Judas, he would be so because he knows his temptations tempting. As Scripture says, “No knew that despite disillusioned that he would would be in vain. What he does one when tempted should say, ‘I doubt the mercy and love instead is that he tempts them with am being tempted by God’, for of Jesus. In fact, Peter’s fall not what is good in order to seduce God cannot be tempted by evil, only taught him a lot about himself them away from what is better. and God tempts no one.” and his weakness but also about When St Ignatius of Loyola was Temptation can the power and tactics of the evil studying in Barcelona, he found that one, who, as he testified, “prowls his attention was being distracted have two main around like a roaring lion looking by all kinds of spiritual insights. sources: for someone to devour.” But he Eventually, he realised that the devil Firstly, there are our own sinful also learned that his betrayal was using them in order to deflect desires. St James says, “each person of Jesus turned out to him form his providential calling. is tempted when he is lured and be a “happy fault” insofar As a result, St Ignatius wrote, “It enticed by his own desire”. St as it evoked in him a is characteristic of the evil angel, John Chrysostom wrote, “It is heartfelt desire for the who takes on the appearance of not the devil but people’s own promised Holy Spirit, an angel of light, to enter by going carelessness which causes all their which filled him and along the same way as the devout falls and all the ills about which the other apostles on soul and then to exit by his own they complain.” Pentecost Sunday when way with success for himself. That is, Secondly, the devil can tempt God’s power was made he brings good and holy thoughts us. In Rev 12:17 we read that perfect in their weakness. attractive to such an upright soul the evil one, “went off to make No wonder Paul said in and then strives little by little to get war on the rest of her (Mary’s) Rm 5:20, “where sin his own way, by enticing the soul offspring, on those who keep increased, grace increased over to his own hidden deceits and the commandments of God and all the more.” evil intentions.” In our times the hold to the testimony of Jesus.” In St Paul warned us that, devil often gets people to focus 20 | The Irish Spirit May 28, 2020 May 28, 2020 The Irish Spirit ||21

Exclusive Excerpt from Freedom from Evil Spirits by Pat Collins CM The evil one prefers to work in secret. Like a he temptation to sin is his Summa Theologiae, St Thomas married man who has seduced a young woman, a characteristic of every Aquinas says that the proper role or vice versa, he will urge the person he tempts not to tell Thuman life. In Genesis we of the devil is to tempt. confessors, friends or confidants about his temptations.” are told how Adam and Eve were How to resist tempted by the devil in the Garden Overcoming of Eden. Even Jesus, the Son of temptation God, experienced such temptation St Paul said in a reassuring way, of temptation, because it is then that faith and morals. Where he finds pray, so that you will not give in to in the wilderness. Speaking about “No temptation has overtaken the enemy is more easily overcome our defence is weakest and most temptation. For the spirit is willing, the three temptations of Jesus in you except what is common to if he is not allowed to come in deficient in regard to eternal but the body is weak!” the course of a general audience mankind. And God is faithful; he through the door of the soul, but salvation, it is at that point that the Self-denial and on the 22nd February 2012, Pope will not let you be tempted beyond temptation instead is kept out and resisted enemy attacks, trying to overcome temptation Benedict XVI said that Satan sought what you can bear. But when you from the first knock... Withstand at us.” Psychologists have suggested to draw Jesus from being a messiah are tempted, he will also provide a the beginning, remedies afterwards that each personality type has Jesus said, “If anyone desires to of self-sacrifice to a messiah of way out so that you can endure it.” Fighting temptation is a come too late.” a characteristic weakness. For come after me, let him deny power. During his period in the I think we would have to say that B. The seducer who likes example, those with a sanguine himself, and take up his cross, wilderness Jesus was exposed this promise presupposes that the difficult task, but through secrecy temperament are inclined to and follow me.” We can curb to danger and was assaulted by person being tempted is mature, The evil one prefers to work in sensuality; those with a melancholic and counteract the selfish, self- temptations which were far from self-aware, and utterly reliant on prayer and fasting we become secret. Like a married man who temperament incline to sadness indulgent inclinations of our God’s plan because they involved God. Because that isn’t always more adept at resisting Satan has seduced a young woman, or and depression; those with a nature, by engaging in such power, success and domination the case, many people, despite vice versa, he will urge the person choleric temperament incline to things as voluntary fasting and rather than the total gift of self their good intentions, do give in and his tricks. he tempts not to tell confessors, anger and insensitivity; and those almsgiving. We can also renounce on the Cross. Heb 4:15, summed to temptation. The evil they wish friends or confidants about his with a phlegmatic temperament satisfactions, sensual, imaginative up the situation when it said, “For to avoid is the very thing they do. Photo from: cathopic temptations. He will suggest incline to apathy and laziness. and intellectual, which may not be we do not have a high priest who There is an interesting example that this is the best policy either Devotees of the controversial sinful in themselves. In this way is unable to empathise with our of this paradox in the gospels. St in a compassionate way on the to be, the more the devil will try because they wouldn’t understand, Enneagram maintain that there are the spiritual self is strengthened. Peter’s good intentions, Satan weaknesses, but we have one who Peter loved Jesus. He promised Once we grow in self-knowledge, satisfaction of pressing needs in to bully him or her by piling on or because they would be too nine personality types. Each one is Then, when temptation comes, has been tempted in every way, to go to Jerusalem with him, and would exploit his weaknesses we will be aware from personal order to distract them from urgent the pressure. But if, from the onset harsh, too busy, or too lax. And he said to have a characteristic blind we are better able to resist it, during Passion Week. Surprisingly, just as we are - yet he did not sin.” if necessary, to die with him. But experience which occasion of sin we most priorities such as prayer, spending of the temptation, the person is knows says Ignatius that “he cannot spot or obsession, e.g. an inordinate with the help of the Holy Spirit. The English words tempt Jesus knew his friend through and he didn’t pray that Peter would time with one’s family or engaging firm and courageous in resisting his succeed in his evil undertaking desire to avoid anger, pain, a sense As Jesus said to the apostles and temptation are derived from through. He responded, “Simon, overcome temptation. He knew need to prayerfully avoid.” in evangelisation. So discernment temptations, the devil is exposed as once its obvious deceptions have of need, failure, ordinariness, when they asked him why they Latin and mean “to test” or “to Simon, listen! Satan has sought that a fall was inevitable because is needed, because all that glitters a coward. St Ignatius wrote, “it is the been revealed... But if one reveals emptiness, non-conformity, had been unable to overcome try the strength of something.” permission to sift all of you like the spiritual life of Peter was built lack of humble self-awareness. So “Satan himself masquerades as an is not necessarily gold. custom of the enemy to become them to a good confessor or a vulnerability and conflict. Mature the influence of the evil one who wheat, but I have prayed for you Theology says that while God on the sand of presumption and a he prayed instead, that when Peter angel of light.” What he meant St Ignatius also believed that weak, lose courage and turn to spiritual person with knowledge Christians need the kind of self- was oppressing a boy, he said, may test a person’s fidelity by that your faith may not fail; and you, had fallen, he would not be by this is that in the case of good the devil tries to separate people flight with his seductions as soon of such deceits and malicious awareness that recognises where “this kind can only be overcome allowing him or her to endure when once you have turned filled with such despairing people, the devil doesn’t try to from the Lord by tempting them to as one leading his or her spiritual intentions, the evil one would be God’s protection is most needed. through prayer and fasting,” i.e. by all kinds of trials, tribulations and back, strengthen your self-contempt that like get them to commit serious sin have an inordinate and idolatrous life faces temptations boldly, and quite vexed, knowing that it cannot Otherwise they will be caught acts of self denial. At the end of temptations, God never does the brothers.” Jesus Judas, he would be so because he knows his temptations “love for money, a root of all kinds does exactly the opposite of what succeed in this evil undertaking unawares. Afterwards they may a talk on confronting the power tempting. As Scripture says, “No knew that despite disillusioned that he would would be in vain. What he does of evil.” Then, the person becomes the enemy suggests. However, if once its obvious deceptions have confess in dismay, “I didn’t know of the devil, in 1972, Pope Paul one when tempted should say, ‘I doubt the mercy and love instead is that he tempts them with preoccupied with a desire for a one begins to be afraid and to been revealed.” And so in a time of what came over me, it wasn’t like me VI said, “The Christian must be a am being tempted by God’, for of Jesus. In fact, Peter’s fall not what is good in order to seduce good reputation, status, honours lose courage in temptations, temptation, it is a prudent thing to to do something like that.” As St Paul militant; he must be vigilant and God cannot be tempted by evil, only taught him a lot about himself them away from what is better. and influence. That leads to a desire no wild animal on earth can be reveal one’s struggle, no matter how admitted, “For I do not do the good strong; and he must at times make and God tempts no one.” and his weakness but also about When St Ignatius of Loyola was for ethical independence. It is at this more fierce than the enemy of shameful or embarrassing it might I want to do, but the evil I do not use of special ascetical practices Temptation can the power and tactics of the evil studying in Barcelona, he found that stage that relativistic and subjective our human nature.” This advice is be, to a person who is experienced want to do - this I keep on doing.” to escape from certain diabolical one, who, as he testified, “prowls his attention was being distracted views of right and wrong begin to particularly relevant during times in the area of discernment of spirits. Once we grow in self-knowledge, attacks. Jesus teaches us this by have two main around like a roaring lion looking by all kinds of spiritual insights. predominate as the person engages of desolation, then the inner sense St Vincent De Paul once wrote, however, we will be aware from pointing to “prayer and fasting” sources: for someone to devour.” But he Eventually, he realised that the devil in activities that are seriously sinful of God’s presence can be eclipsed “if anyone feels troubled by ideas personal experience which occasion as the remedy. And the Apostle Firstly, there are our own sinful also learned that his betrayal was using them in order to deflect in God’s eyes if not their own. In his and we are troubled by feelings which seem to be in some way of sin we most need to prayerfully suggests the main line we should desires. St James says, “each person of Jesus turned out to him form his providential calling. Spiritual Exercises, St Ignatius said like restlessness, aridity, sadness misleading, are upset by acute avoid. As Jesus said to the apostles follow: “Be not overcome by evil, is tempted when he is lured and be a “happy fault” insofar As a result, St Ignatius wrote, “It that in order to resist diabolical and hopelessness. It is just when anxiety or temptation, he should in Gethsemane, “Keep watch and but overcome evil with good.” enticed by his own desire”. St as it evoked in him a is characteristic of the evil angel, temptation, a believer needs to be we arrive at our lowest ebb that tell a spiritually experienced person, familiar with the typical tactics of such as a spiritual director, so that John Chrysostom wrote, “It is heartfelt desire for the who takes on the appearance of the enemy will attack. It is then, Freedom from Evil Spirits not the devil but people’s own promised Holy Spirit, an angel of light, to enter by going the Devil. He likes to operate as too, that we need to recall that the matter can be competently by Pat Collins CM carelessness which causes all their which filled him and along the same way as the devout a bully who intimidates, a seducer “the spirit you received is not a dealt with.” PRICE: €12.99 falls and all the ills about which the other apostles on soul and then to exit by his own who fosters secrecy, and as a spirit of cowardice but rather the C. The military commander A 01 6874096 | M [email protected] they complain.” Pentecost Sunday when way with success for himself. That is, military commander who exploits spirit of power and self-control” who exploits weakness www.columbabooks.com Secondly, the devil can tempt God’s power was made he brings good and holy thoughts a person’s principal vulnerability. so “resist the devil and he will The devil is like a good military or send a cheque to: us. In Rev 12:17 we read that perfect in their weakness. attractive to such an upright soul A. The bully who intimidates flee from you”. The great spiritual commander. He exploits a person’s Columba Books, 23 Merrion Square, Dublin 2, D02 XE02. the evil one, “went off to make No wonder Paul said in and then strives little by little to get The devil comes on strong writers counsel that it is important greatest vulnerability, especially war on the rest of her (Mary’s) Rm 5:20, “where sin his own way, by enticing the soul during temptation. He tries to to resist temptation as soon as it during times of desolation. The offspring, on those who keep increased, grace increased over to his own hidden deceits and intimidate us in order to produce begins. Thomas à Kempis wrote in enemy of our human nature, says the commandments of God and all the more.” evil intentions.” In our times the a resigned defeatism in the heart. The Imitation of Christ, “We must be Ignatius, “explores from every FREE POSTAGE ON ALL ORDERS hold to the testimony of Jesus.” In St Paul warned us that, devil often gets people to focus The weaker the person appears watchful, especially in the beginning side all our virtues of intellect, 22 | The Irish Spirit May 28, 2020 Spring in Glenstal Abbey ue to two centuries of planting and careful husbandry by the Barringtons and successive Dmonk-foresters, Glenstal is breathtakingly beautiful. Everywhere the shoots of new life are in evidence, that delicate shade of fresh green that Hildegard of Bingen called viriditas and which she interpreted as the colour of the Holy Spirit, the giver of life. As the season advances the flowers and colours increase and multiply. Snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils carpet the ground while overhead azaleas, rhododendron and cherry clothe the boughs. Occasionally, the bright red of a Chilean flame tree blazes against the green backdrop. At such a time and in such a place it is easy to identify with Kavanagh’s farmers in The Great Hunger: TOP: Trees in bloom on the grounds of Glenstal Abbey. Yet sometimes when the sun comes through a gap BELOW: Br Justin making candles for use in These men know God the Father in a tree: the abbey. The Holy Spirit is the rising sap, Photos by Valerie O’Sullivan And Christ will bve the green leaves that will come At Easter from the sealed and guarded tomb.

A Monk’s Task: Candles A candle’s flame symbolises Christ’s light and presence dispelling the darkness of the world. Pure beeswax candles were long preferred for use in church worship, with bleached wax used for joyous celebrations and unbleached for more sombre occasions such as funerals. Beeswax gift candles are made at Glenstal Abbey where, with the help of our bees, we are beginning to make altar candles for use in the liturgy. We are reminded by the Easter Exsultet of this sacred use of earth’s gifts as the cantor implores God to ‘accept this candle, a solemn offering, the work of bees and of your servants’ hands, an evening sacrifice of praise, this gift from your most holy Church … for it is fed by melting wax, drawn out by mother bees to build a torch so precious.’ – Br Justin

Glenstal Abbey, Through the Seasons Photographs by Valerie O’Sullivan PRICE: €24.99

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the cosmos. At Pentecost the new age begins with the inauguration Spring in The Coming of Spirit-Love of the Church by the Spirit. In Acts, “Divided tongues, as of From the book the Holy Spirit is more detailed fire, appeared with the wind, and Trinity: A story of deep delight than John’s. In both, Jesus appears a tongue of fire rested on each of Glenstal by Anne Marie Mongoven, O.P. to the “disciples.” In Luke those the disciples.”. Then the disciples present are the “disciples, women emerged from their hiding place and men.” In both John and Acts, and began preaching fearlessly the n Pentecost Sunday they are all hiding “for fear of the Good News of Jesus. People of Christians celebrate Jews.” In John, Jesus “breathed” every nation heard them speak, Abbey Othe coming of the Holy on them. In Acts, the sound “like each in his or her own tongue. It ue to two centuries of planting and careful Spirit to the followers of Jesus. the rush of a violent wind swept was the Spirit behind the words husbandry by the Barringtons and successive There are two different passages through the whole house.” spoken so enthusiastically that set monk-foresters, Glenstal is breathtakingly beautiful. in the New Testament that tell In both John’s and Luke’s D the fire of love ablaze in both the Everywhere the shoots of new life are in evidence, that this story. One narrative is in accounts of the Holy Spirit’s coming, preachers and their listeners. delicate shade of fresh green that Hildegard of Bingen John’s Gospel, the other in Luke’s wind and breath are signs of the When we, as Church, are at Acts of the Apostles. Although John Spirit’s presence. Luke emphasises called viriditas and which she interpreted as the colour of our best, we praise and glorify describes the coming of the Spirit the sound of the wind, perhaps the Holy Spirit, the giver of life. As the season advances God through poetry or song, or in just two short verses, he depicts because the sensory image of the flowers and colours increase and multiply. Snowdrops, story. All prayer is praise, but poetry the disciples’ frame of mind as well wind speaks strength and power. crocuses and daffodils carpet the ground while overhead carries the fullness of human love. as their behaviour both before and This sentence relates closely to azaleas, rhododendron and cherry clothe the boughs. Words of praise and glory are after the coming of the Spirit. These the creation scene in the second Occasionally, the bright red of a Chilean flame tree blazes never just factual. Bare facts rarely insights give us an understanding of verse of the Book of Genesis, against the green backdrop. communicate affection, reverence, the ways in which the early faith where the author states, “the Earth At such a time and in such a place it is easy to identify with and deep love. The Israelites knew community responded to the was a formless void and darkness TOP: Trees in bloom on the grounds of this. They knew that the Genesis Kavanagh’s farmers in The Great Hunger: Pentecostal event. covered the face of the deep, while Glenstal Abbey. story began with images of strength The Gospel of John, Chapter a wind from God swept over the Yet sometimes when the sun comes through a gap BELOW: Br Justin making candles for use in and love. “In the beginning,” wrote 20:1-23, tells how on the day we forgiven them; if you retain the sins preach the Mystery of Jesus’ death- face of the waters (Gn. 1:2). In new These men know God the Father in a tree: the abbey. now call “Easter,” the followers of of any, they are retained. resurrection-glorification. birth, it is wind, breeze, or breath – the author, “when God created the The Holy Spirit is the rising sap, Photos by Valerie O’Sullivan Jesus, both men and women, first Luke, in Acts, tells of the coming Jesus breathed and prayed whatever you want to call it – that Heavens and the Earth, the Earth And Christ will bve the green leaves that will come learned of the empty tomb from of the Spirit in a slightly different over the disciples, giving them brings life. was a formless void and darkness At Easter from the sealed and guarded tomb. Mary Magdalene. Mary went to way. The disciples were gathered their mission. His gift takes two In Acts, wind was the sign covered the face of the deep, while Jesus’ tomb early on Sunday to in the upper room on the Jewish forms: first, in John, the act of of renewed life coming to the a wind from God swept over the anoint the body of Jesus. She Pentecost Day. breathing and the accompanying Christian community, life that also face of the waters. discovered the empty tomb, Suddenly from Heaven there words, “Receive the Holy Spirit,” came as tongues of fire, giving new The Pentecost story, like the and brought this information to came a sound like the rush of a and second, in Acts, the noise of speech and energy to the disciples. creation story, is a love story. The A Monk’s Task: Jesus’ followers who were already violent wind, and it filled the entire the wind, the sight of the fire, and The power of the tongues of fire Bible is full of love stories. The frightened. Their inability to resolve house where they were sitting. Divided the gift of tongues. Jesus gave the illustrates the power of the words whole of the Hebrew Scriptures Candles the problem of Jesus’ missing body tongues, as of fire, appeared among disciples new life, the life of the of the preaching disciples. They is the story of the steadfastness was the beginning of a sequence of them, and a tongue rested on each Holy Spirit. He also informed the moved from fear to confidence of God’s love for the Israelites, A candle’s flame symbolises Christ’s light and presence events in which fear grew among of them. All of them were filled with disciples that the Father had sent as powerful preachers of the even when they are unfaithful. dispelling the darkness of the world. Pure beeswax candles were the disciples. They were frightened the Holy Spirit and began to speak him, and he, by giving the Holy Spirit Good News. Were John and Luke Individuals like David wrote love long preferred for use in church worship, with bleached wax used on Sunday morning, but by the end in other languages, as the Spirit gave to them, was sending them just announcing the beginning of a new poems and songs in the psalms. for joyous celebrations and unbleached for more sombre occasions of that day they were fearless, them ability. – Acts 2: 2-5 as the Father had sent him. In this creation, or a new kingdom? In both Naomi loved Ruth. Jonathan loved such as funerals. preaching publicly and fervently Both John and Luke describe conversation Jesus acknowledges stories Luke and John tell us that David. In the Gospels Matthew, Beeswax gift candles are made at Glenstal Abbey where, with the help of our bees, we are beginning to of the death-resurrection of Jesus. the followers of Jesus as gathered the presence of both the Father tremendous changes took place Mark, Luke and John wrote love make altar candles for use in the liturgy. We are reminded by the Easter Exsultet of this sacred use of earth’s What happened between the together in fear and prayer. In John’s and Spirit with him and with them. once the Holy Spirit came upon stories about Jesus. Paul handed gifts as the cantor implores God to ‘accept this candle, a solemn offering, the work of bees and of your servants’ morning and evening on that day? Gospel the risen Christ suddenly With the coming of the Holy Spirit, the community. In the “coming of over to his churches hymns of hands, an evening sacrifice of praise, this gift from your most holy Church … for it is fed by melting wax, drawn John tells us that, appears to them, breathes on them, Trinity embraced the disciples with the Spirit” narratives, John and Luke praise and love which Christians out by mother bees to build a torch so precious.’ – Br Justin When it was evening on that and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” divine love. relate the story of the re-creation of still sing today. day, the first day of the week, and In Luke’s account they are hidden The Holy Spirit is the spirit of the doors of the house where the in a house for fear of the Jews, life, of energy, and of love. In John’s Glenstal Abbey, Through the Seasons Trinity: A story of deep delight disciples had met were locked for fear and suddenly, with the sound of a account, the Spirit sent by the by Anne Marie Mongoven, O.P. Photographs by Valerie O’Sullivan of the Jews, Jesus came and stood violent wind and the appearance Father through the Word brought PRICE: €14.99 PRICE: €24.99 among them and said, “Peace be with of tongues of fire, the Spirit comes a new life of love not only to A 01 6874096 | M [email protected] you.” After he said this, he showed to them. Transformed by the Spirit’s individuals but to the community A 01 6874096 M [email protected] www.columbabooks.com www.columbabooks.com them his hands and his side. Then the presence they lost their fear and of believers as a whole. The life or send a cheque to: or send a cheque to: disciples rejoiced when they saw the went out to preach publicly. and love of Trinity entered into Columba Books, 23 Merrion Square, Dublin 2, D02 XE02. Columba Books, 23 Merrion Square, Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace Through Jesus’ act of breathing the disciples through the Spirit in Dublin 2, D02 XE02. be with you. As the Father has sent upon them and saying, “Receive the a new way, and they no longer hid me, so I send you.” When he had said Holy Spirit,” Christ gave new life to in fear. They went forth deliberately, this, he breathed on them and said his friends. It is the Holy Spirit who inspired by the Spirit to bring the to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If gave the disciples the new energy good news of Jesus to the world. FREE POSTAGE ON ALL ORDERS FREE POSTAGE ON ALL ORDERS you forgive the sins of any, they are and the fire of love that led them to Luke’s story of the coming of 24 | The Irish Spirit May 28, 2020 Prayers to the Holy Spirit Set Your Hearts on From the book A Treasury of Prayers by Dinah Proctor

LITANY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT the Higher Gifts Lord, have mercy. Holy Spirit, imprint on our hearts a horror Christ, have mercy on us. for sin, Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us. we beseech you, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us. Holy Spirit, come and renew the face of God, the Father Almighty, have mercy on us. the earth. Jesus, Eternal Son of the Father, Redeemer Holy Spirit, shed your light upon our of the world, save us. understanding. Spirit of the Father and the Son and Infinite Holy Spirit, engrave your law upon our hearts. Love of Both, sanctify us. Holy Spirit, open to us the treasure of your Most Holy Trinity, hear us. grace. Holy Spirit, who proceeds from the Father Holy Spirit, teach us how we ought to pray. and the Son, come to us. Holy Spirit, enlighten us with your heavenly Promise to the Father, inspirations. Gift of God Most High, Holy Spirit, grant us the knowledge that is Ray of heavenly light, necessary. This love he speaks of is not the same Fount of Living Water, Holy Spirit, instill into us the practice of the From the book Tired of kind of love that does well on February Consuming Fire, virtues. all the Bad News fourteenth. This is not about candlelit dinners, Author of all good, Holy Spirit, grant that we may persevere in by Fr Bryan Shortall cuddly toys, Valentine’s cards, or boxes of Spiritual Union, justice. praline chocolates. All these things are good Ardent Charity, Holy Spirit, be our reward. in themselves, but this is not what Paul is Spirit of wisdom, Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of writing about. The love he writes to the Spirit of understanding, the world, ove is always patient and kind. Love Corinthians about will not put on any weight Spirit of counsel and of fortitude, send us your Holy Spirit is never jealous. Love is not boastful and is completely guilt-free if well lived. The Spirit of knowledge and of piety, Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of Lor conceited. Love is never rude and kind of love that Paul describes is a recipe Spirit of the fear of the Lord, the world, never seeks its own advantage. Love does for happiness where it matters: on the inside, Spirit of truth and of love, imbue us with the spirit of wisdom and the not take offence or store up grievances. Love and this will be radiated to all we encounter. Spirit of grace and of prayer, Holy Spirit does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but finds its It is a love that turns away from humiliating Spirit of peace and of sweetness, Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of joy in the truth. It is always ready to make the other person, and it does not enjoy other Spirit of modesty and of innocence, the world, allowances, to trust, to hope and to endure people’s sins. It is opposed to scandal and Spirit of consolation, imbue us with the spirit of wisdom and whatever comes. Love never comes to an end. gossip, preferring to tell the truth instead. St Spirit that governs the Church, devotion. But if there are prophecies, they will be done Spirit that fills the universe, Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your away with; if tongues, they will fall silent; and Paul’s view of love warns us against human Spirit of adoption of the Son of God, faithful, if knowledge, it will be done away with. For prophesying, which is always imperfect. Putting And kindle in them the fire of your love. we know only imperfectly, and we prophesy our trust in horoscopes or fortune tellers can imperfectly, but once perfection comes, all be troublesome. Instead, by putting our trust Let us pray imperfect things will be done away with. in God, we will always know who can take us forward in kindness. O God, who instructed the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Spirit, grant us in the When I was a child, I used to talk like a The love that St Paul describes is also given same Spirit to be truly wise and ever to rejoice in consolation. child, and see things as a child does, and think Through Christ Our Lord. Amen. like a child, but now that I have become an another name: caritas, which means charity. This Holy Spirit, spirit of truth, come into our hearts; shed the brightness of your light upon adult, I have finished with all childish ways. means charity to all in need, but in its essence the nations, so that they may please you in unity of faith. Now we see only reflections in a mirror, mere it also means a deep love that is selfless, so Holy Spirit, sweet Guest of my soul, abide in me and grant that I may ever abide in you. riddles, but then we shall be seeing face to face. it sets the bar very high. It is a love for the God the Holy Spirit, have mercy on us. Now I can know only imperfectly; but then I honours course and it is for the long haul. It May the grace of the Holy Spirit enlighten our senses and our hearts. May our hearts shall know just as fully as I am myself known. is a love that walks the road of life and it is a be cleansed, O Lord, by the inpouring of the Holy Spirit and may he render them fruitful As it is, these remain: faith, hope and love, love that puts the other person first. by watering them with his heavenly dew. With all our heart and voice, we acknowledge, we the three of them; and the greatest of them Today, couples often choose St Paul’s letter praise, and we bless you God the Father unbegotten; God, the only begotten Son; God, the is love (1 Cor 13). to the Corinthians as the second reading at Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, O holy and undivided Trinity! When St Paul wrote this letter to the their church wedding ceremony. I believe that Corinthians he was challenging them to reach the challenge he lays down to the people of for the stars, to be ambitious for the higher Corinth in the first century after Christ is as A Treasury of Prayers by Dinah Proctor | Price: €9.99 gifts. He was offering them a set of guiding relevant to us now in the twenty-first. Set A 01 6874096 M [email protected] n www.columbabooks.com principles for their love lives. your hearts on the higher gifts. or send a cheque to: Columba Books, 23 Merrion Square, Dublin 2, D02 XE02. Read more inspiring stories like this one by buying the book Tired of all Bad News by Fr Bryan Shortall from Columba Books by phoning 01 6874096 or visiting www.columbabooks.com. Price: €12.99

FREE POSTAGE ON ALL ORDERS The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | International analysis ||25

Bishop William Crean

espite the changing times in which we are living, some things remain steadfast. This weekend we celebrate Pentecost, Dthe recognition that the Holy Spirit has come and remains in the life of every follower of Jesus Christ. Pentecost is linked closely with Easter and with the mission of Trócaire, particularly this year as we all adapt to the new world and our new reality: “You shall receive power…and you will be my Ireland’s bishops witnesses.” (Acts 1:8) As the disciples received their mission to go out and share the Good News, Trócaire is missioned ask Faithful by the Irish Church to go out to the world to care for the most vulnerable. Donations made through the annual Trócaire Lenten Campaign, to complete especially the Trócaire box, fund life-saving programmes around the world. Last year alone, Trócaire Trócaire Lenten supported over 2.9 million people on behalf of parishes across Ireland. In addition to its vital ongoing programmes, Trócaire is also this Pentecost responding to the Covid-19 crisis. The virus is present in all of the Checking temperatures for fever symptoms to prevent the spread of Covid-19, Trócaire health worker Habiba Mohamed checks the temperature of countries where Trócaire works Mohamed Abdi Ali at Luuq hospital in the Gedo region of Somalia. Photo: Trócaire and the charity is providing to help families cope through the support in all regions, including lockdowns. 11 countries in Africa where over Each year people from every 100,000 coronavirus cases have parish in Ireland fill their Trócaire been confirmed. boxes to support the world’s We have seen how this virus poorest people, but this year the has stretched Europe to its limits. closure of schools and churches Can you imagine the devastation means that support is not getting it will cause in countries with no through. resources to fight it? The people supported by our The contents of each Trócaire boxes are among the ❛❛ poorest people in the world. and every Trócaire box. They live in communities with no come together to make a hospitals, no ventilators and no way to keep themselves safe. significant difference” So far, Trócaire’s response Thousands of boxes are sitting in includes providing soap, water and homes across Ireland. Unless these hand-washing stations, supporting generous donations are returned, quarantine facilities and funding Trócaire won’t be able to provide expert medical care. This work is life-saving support to some of the being carried out in the name of poorest people in the world. the Catholic Church in Ireland. It is This Pentecost, the bishops of our Faith and our commitment to Ireland are asking our parishioners our brothers and sisters in action. nationwide to complete the However, the challenges will Trócaire Lenten campaign we be great. While Covid-19 does not began together earlier this year. discriminate, the poorest and most In Kenya, clinical health care workers are informing the community about Covid-19. Photo: Victoria Nthenge Please count or estimate what is in vulnerable people will not be able at home. Now it is time to protect those who suffer. We are all frail, able to do thanks to support from your box and donate the equivalent to cope with this pandemic. And the worlds’ most vulnerable. all equal, all precious. May we be people across the island of Ireland. amount online, by post or over the yet when the world’s poor need us The contents of each and every profoundly shaken: now is the Around the world, Trócaire phone. You can also contact your most, Trócaire, the development Trócaire box, no matter how small, time to eliminate inequalities and teams have been working with local parish about how to safely agency of our Church has been come together to make a significant heal the injustice undermining the communities to raise awareness return your box. unable to collect vital donations to difference. This virus knows no health of the entire human family!” about hand washing and social The contents of each and every fund its work. borders, but neither does our Trócaire has never faced a distancing through local radio, Trócaire box, no matter how small, compassion. humanitarian emergency in every posters and brochures translated come together to make a significant into local languages. They are difference to the lives of thousands Restrictions Recently Pope Francis said: “The country in which it works – at the Due to the necessary restrictions supporting handwashing stations of families. pandemic reminds us there are same time. But there is hope to be related to Covid-19, thousands of in villages and providing hygiene We hope this Pentecost Trócaire boxes are still sitting in no difference or borders between found in the work the agency is and medical equipment. These weekend will bear witness to the homes across Ireland, weeks after tactics worked against Ebola and spirit of parishes across Ireland Easter. This is the worst possible they can work again. as they extend Christ’s love and time coming just as the world’s While Covid-19 does not discriminate, the Trócaire is also continuing compassion around the world. poorest people need us most. We poorest❛❛ and most vulnerable people will not to provide seeds, food, kitchen have done – and continue to do – equipment and critical savings i Bishop William Crean is Bishop so much to protect each other here be able to cope with the pandemic” and loans support where they can of Cloyne and Chair of Trócaire. 26 | International news || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 World Report IN BRIEF Female appointed as Swiss Pope prays for China as Hong Catholic bishop’s delegate l Swiss Bishop Charles Morerod of Lausanne, Geneva and Friburg has appointed a woman theologian to succeed the Kong comes under threat present episcopal vicar. As Pope Francis entrusted needed, relevant national Marianne Pohl-Henzen will succeed the present episcopal China to the Blessed Virgin, security organs of the Central vicar for the German part of the diocese on August 1 police in Hong Kong were fir- People’s Government will set Pohl-Henzen, 60, studied theology and philology, and for the ing tear gas and water cannon up agencies in Hong Kong to past eight years has been the right hand of current episcopal- at protesters rallying against fulfil relevant duties to safe- vicar of the German-speaking vicariate of Fribourg, Fr Pascal China’s plans to impose a new guard national security in Marquard, who is moving to Zurich. security law on the territory. accordance with the law”. The diocese announced she will be “the person responsible The Holy Father imparted in the vicariate/diocesan region in the bishop’s name”. a special Apostolic Blessing Arrests upon China for the feast of This means that China could Tributes paid to religious Our Lady Help of Christians have its own law enforcement brother in Bangladesh at the weekend. agencies in Hong Kong, along However, there was no with the city’s own; a prospect l mention made of the latest Catholics in Bangladesh are mourning and paying tribute to a that fills the Hong Kong pro- former provincial of the Holy Cross Brothers for his “outstanding threat from Beijing to the democracy movement with contributions” to education, religious formation and human freedoms agreed for Hong dread, given Beijing’s draco- development. Harold Bijoy Rodrigues died in Dhaka, aged 62, Kong in the Basic Law, when nian record of arrest without after losing his fight with pancreatic cancer last weekend. Britain handed over the terri- due cause, detention without Br Rodrigues also served as secretary of the Bangladesh tory to China in 1997. trial, torture and universal Catholic Education Board. “Dear Catholic brothers “He (Rodrigues) made outstanding contributions to our and sisters in China,” the surveillance of the population. religious order and the Church,” said Holy Cross Brother Pope said during his Sunday Hong Kong’s leader Car- provincial Subal Lawrence Rozario. Regina Caeli address, “I wish rie Lam, who is seen by the “He was a great man but led a simple life. He had a to assure you that the univer- democracy activists as part of compassionate heart which forgave any wrongdoing easily.” sal Church, of which you are the pro-Beijing political estab- an integral part, shares your lishment, has pledged full hopes and supports you in support for the proposed law Caritas Philippines trials. Protestors have returned to the streets of Hong Kong and said the territory’s rights “It accompanies you with following new Chinese legislation. would remain unchanged. relaunches prayer for a new outpouring force for 50 years including munist authorities describe The National People’s Con- of the Holy Spirit, so that the rights “of freedom of speech, as “treason, secession, sedi- gress (NPC) is expected to vote environmental booklet light and beauty of the Gos- of the press and of publication and subversion” in the on the “draft decision” at the l Caritas Philippines says the publication pel, the power of God for the tion; freedom of association, territory and China’s Foreign end of its annual session today has published a guide will help people “look salvation of whoever believes, of assembly, of procession Minister Wang Yi said the leg- (May 28) and will then go to to be distributed to local at themselves” and can shine in you,” he said. and of demonstration”. islation should be brought in the NPC’s Standing Commit- communities which aims evaluate “whether we are Under the ‘one country, China, where none of “without the slightest delay”. tee, China’s top legislature, two systems’ concept, the ter- these rights apply, is seek- The new measure – to promote “practical contributing or not” to which is expected to finalise ritory is guaranteed an inde- ing to pass a new law which referred to as the ‘draft deci- and enact the law by the end actions” from an solving the problem. “ecological” point of view. pendent judiciary and police would ban what the com- sion’ – states that “when of June. The booklet, he The guide features adds, is a reminder for illustrated reflections and directives in accordance communities of “small with the teachings outlined things we can do” to Vatican Museums to reopen on June 1 by Pope Francis. save the environment The Vatican Museums will reopen on European Union to visit without being The Vatican Museums have also Edwin Gariguez, and promote “activities June 1, two days before Italy opens subjected to a quarantine requirement. added an open-bus tour of the Vatican executive secretary that promote ecological its borders to European visitors after Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Gardens, while the museum and of Caritas Philippines, awareness”. nearly three months of lockdown. Conte said that this will help Italy’s gardens at the Pontifical Villas of Entrance will only be possible via tourism industry to recover. Castel Gandolfo are set to reopen on French court orders govt to prior reservation to limit the number To accommodate visitors, the June 6. of people in the museum and stagger museums have extended their hours “I would like this moment of lift religious service ban entrance times. to encourage afternoon and evening difficulty to turn into an opportunity,” l All visitors will be required to wear visits. The administrative court of France’s Council of State has said Bishop Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, ruled that freedom of worship is a fundamental right and has a mask, and mandatory temperature Vatican City State general secretary, ordered the ban of religious services to be lifted. checks will be conducted at the Gardens in an interview with L’Osservatore Since May 11, the French government had imposed a ban entrance. The museums, which have been closed on religious services as part of anti-coronavirus measures. Group visits to the museums will be since March 8, will be open Monday Romano. However, the court ruled last week that freedom of worship capped at a maximum of 10 people. through Saturday from 10am each day. “[This] could become an ideal is a fundamental freedom which includes the right to participate The Italian government announced On Friday and Saturday the opportunity to seize the extraordinary collectively in religious ceremonies. that the country is to open its museums and gardens will stay open opportunity to visit the summer The court has given the government until June 2 to lift the regional and international borders on until 10pm with an optional cocktail residence of the Pope and the splendid ban. Wednesday, allowing tourists from the hour in the courtyard. Gardens of Villa Barberini.” Kenya bishops seek signatures for education petition Bishops in Ecuador say crisis highlights unsolved problems l The Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) is Ecuadorian bishops have sive way”. reunion”, however, has left gility and mistrust, the Ecua- seeking at least 10,000 online signatures to compel the denounced those who take The bishops’ message was a “trace of pain and uncer- dorian Church has urged all country’s government to pull out from the Comprehensive advantage of the Covid-19 published before the start of tainty” due to the health, social, political and economic Sexuality Education (CSE) commitment. crisis to get rich fraudulently a new opening phase, follow- economic, social and ethical actors to face the present with The online campaign is a petition aimed against the Kenyan as a “very serious crime”. ing the restrictions adopted crisis that the nation is expe- “decision and transparency in government’s commitment to comprehensive rights-based In a declaration entitled to combat the Covid-19 pan- riencing. the search for the common sexuality education starting from primary school. ‘Crisis and hope’, the bish- demic. All this, according to the good” and to assume their “The Church and other stakeholders in education have tried ops stress that the “serious A second phase allows the bishops, has led to the State in vain to object the introduction of the CSE,” said the KCCB in health crisis has highlighted opening of the churches for being “indebted and unable responsibilities in a “clear, a statement last week. the endemic defects of the personal prayer and the sac- to fulfill its health, education, consensual and ethical way”, “The future of our children through Value Based Education State that have never been rament of reconciliation. work and safety obligations”. leaving aside personal or should be our business and our concern.” addressed in a clear and deci- A new phase of “hope and In the context of this fra- party interests. The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | International news ||27 r1

World Report Edited by Aron Hegarty Vatican [email protected] roundup No masking kindness

Francis transfers Vatican Data Processing Centre l Pope Francis has transferred the Vatican’s Data Processing Centre (CED) from the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA) to the Secretariat for the Economy (SPE). The Holy Father made the shuffle in the Roman Curia, which was announced by the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, last week. The Pope says the transfer is required “to guarantee a more rational organisation of the Holy See’s economic and financial information”. Another reason cited is the eventual computerisation of all its activities “so as to guarantee the simplification of activities and the effectiveness of controls, as they are fundamental for the correct functioning of the Entities of the Roman Curia”. The transfer of the CED will proceed according to the Memorandum of Understanding signed between APSA President Bishop Nunzio Galantino and the Prefect of the Secretariat for the Economy, Fr Juan Antonio Guerrero Alves. Officials and personnel of the CED will move under the responsibility of the SPE, except those who continue to be employed by the APSA. The new measure will come into effect on June 1. Pope Mass watched live Liliane Tavares de Moura, a parishioner of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Manaus, Brazil, delivers a protective mask to a resident in one of the city’s slums to minimise the spread of Covid-19. Photo: CNS daily by Catholics in China l Thousands of Catholic one member of the faithful faithful in the People’s connected to a single Republic of China have digital device, in particular Indian laureate leads call for tuned in and followed the on Sundays. daily liturgy celebrated by The liturgies were Pope Francis through an transmitted via smartphone world leaders tackle child abuse application. through the app, which More than 88 laureates and children’s elders will lose their jobs, some The statement, signed by Nobel The WeChat app has is China’s most popular rights advocates have called on organisations may collapse and job laureates like the Dalai Lama, called allowed between 7,000 app used commonly world leaders to prioritise vulnerable opportunities may dry up, forcing for child protection infrastructure to and 8,000 people in China by young and old. A children in the Covid-19 pandemic. many children to help their elders,” he be strengthened and said that with to connect in real time to simultaneous translation, Indian Nobel Peace laureate Kailash said. Covid-19 exposing the pre-existing broadcasts of the Mass also disseminated through Satyarthi’s foundation Laureates and Satyarthi, who has been fighting inequalities, the aftermath would from the Casa Santa Marta WeChat, allowed all those Leaders for Children has also asked child labour, slavery and trafficking, have a devastating impact on the most through social media. connected to follow and for a US$1 trillion financial package to issued a statement last week with vulnerable. The first live celebration understand the Pope’s protect children. other laureates highlighting the They said their proposed financial took place on March 30 morning Masses. “The Catholic Church has always challenges faced by children and package would fund all outstanding with just 280 views. Since Catholics in China have a special place and concern for the advocates. United Nations (UN) and charity then, live broadcasts of the been unable to participate youth and children and Pope Francis “We all collectively must act now Covid-19 appeals and cancel two years Mass have attracted more in the liturgies celebrated always insists on taking extra care or else we may lose our children and of debt repayments from low-income than 10,000 viewers daily. in the Chinese churches of children, so an initiative like this an entire generation. We demand that countries. The Masses were for more than three months is a highly appreciable step,” said Fr the most marginalised and vulnerable followed by more than due to the Covid-19 crisis. Chetan Machado, secretary of the children are not forgotten during this The fund could be used to help Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India’s grave crisis and beyond,” the statement countries meet UN Sustainable Commission for Youth. said. Development Goals on health, Holy See reaffirms two-state He said the initiative is timely The statement said that children water, sanitation and education, the solution for Israel-Palestine because the activists are in a good are at greater risk of sexual abuse statement said. l The Holy See has once again reiterated the two-people, position to push world leaders to and domestic violence during the They also called on G20 nations two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian problem for prioritise children. lockdown and when the restrictions to take action beyond their own peace in the Holy Land. “There is a possibility that during are lifted that they may be trafficked, borders for those who urgently need In a statement by the Holy See last week, Chief and after the Covid-19 effect many forced out of school and into labour. coordinated international aid. Palestine negotiator and Secretary General of the Palestine Liberation Organisation, Saeb Erekat, called the Vatican Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Lebanese Catholic schools at risk of closure due to crisis Richard Gallagher. Erekat called to “inform the Holy See about recent developments in the Palestinian territories A bishop in Lebanon has said necessary cash to meet all has had to face deep economic many people, especially in the and of the possibility of Israeli applying its sovereignty that Catholic schools in the expenses”. and political crises, exacer- private sector, have lost their unilaterally to part of those territories, further jeopardising country could close down due “It’s a vicious circle and bated by the war in Syria and jobs or are not paid at the end the peace process”. to the Covid-19 pandemic and we don’t know when it will now the coronavirus. of the month. The Holy See reiterated that “respect for international has called on intervention end,” says Bishop Aoun. “I am The Church has responded “There is no work,” says law and the relevant United Nations resolutions, is an from the West to save them. appealing to the West, to the by opening two Church- Bishop Aoun. “We are repeat- indispensable element for the two peoples to live side Bishop Michel Aoun of world Church, to help us in owned facilities for patients edly calling for solidarity to by side in two States, within the borders internationally Jbeil-Byblos of the Maronites this period of emergency. I and providing land for farm- support the action of bishops recognised before 1967”. says the economic crisis has cry out to you: help us! ing. Family budgets have also and parishes. The statement concluded saying that the Holy See overwhelmed the country “The government prom- suffered from the lockdown “We have prepared food hopes that “Israelis and Palestinians will be soon able to and 80% of Catholic schools ised to fight corruption, but of the private sector and busi- parcels for monthly distribu- find once again the possibility for directly negotiating an could close because “people so far it has nothing to show,” ness closures. tion. We try to help families in agreement, with the help of the International Community, so do not want to pay and the Bishop Aoun says. Basic resources, food and difficulty, with the few means that peace may finally reign in the Holy Land”. Church does not have the For months the country medicines are in short supply; we have.” 28 | Opinion || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 Letters Importance of Letter of the week prayer to St Michael Parishes should regularly Dear Editor, What a blessing we have at a time with churches closed to have Mass celebrated daily on the web cam in many churches throughout the country and on RTÉ change committee members Now. We owe a debt of gratitude to all involved in this Dear Editor, Your editorial [IC are other lessons to be learned too. well-run voluntary groups have ministry. I write this email on Wednesday, May 6, following 14/05/2020] made the important All committees within parishes need policies in place that require time this morning’s Mass on RTÉ Now from St Eunan’s Cathedral, point that our parishes need younger to have a change in membership at limits for anyone on a committee. One Letterkenny. The celebrant was Fr Damien Nejad, a native of parishioners to offer time to support regular intervals if they are to remain of the tasks for someone planning to Glasgow. the running of the parish and all the effective and open to new ideas. step down from a committee could be Fr Damien delivered a homily on the importance of the various ministries and activities. Being on a committee for more than to encourage other suitable people to Rosary and referenced the background of the prayer of St Depending on the over 70s to 10 years can be counter-productive, get involved. Michael, Archangel composed by Pope Leo XIII. The reason take on most of the parish duties has not only does one’s enthusiasm Yours etc., for the prayer is seldom mentioned since the Second Vatican resulted in a shortage of volunteers diminish but the opportunity for Frank Browne, Council but is as important today as it has been since October now during our pandemic. But there others to join is stymied too. Most Templeogue, Co. Dublin. 13, 1884. Fr Damien spoke of what occurred on that date. After Mass Pope Leo XIII was witness to an encounter between Our Lord and Satan in which Satan boasted that he would destroy the Church within 100 years. Fr Damien Nejad Parishioners can help facilitate in his Homily encouraged the viewers to combat evil and the reality of the existence of Satan with our daily Rosary. It was so refreshing to hear the history that instigated the prayer to St Michael. early return of church services Fr Damien recited the prayer of St Michael in his Dear Editor, The news that mornings (one per hour the closure of churches of Reconciliation during reflection: St Michael, Archangel, defend us in our hour of the bishops are considering 9-12) plus the usual evening even for private prayer was this pandemic. Some conflict; be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares an early return to church Mass and evening vigil the difficulty in ensuring priests are doing just this of the devil. May God restrain him, we humbly pray; and do services before the gov- Mass would cater for most a sterile environment but but alas too many are not thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God ernment’s recommended Church-going parishioners. each parishioner can sterilise offering any opportunity for thrust Satan down to hell, and all wicked spirits who wander reopening date in late July Parishioners should also play surfaces touched, etc. Doors Confession by appointment through the world for the ruin of souls. is very welcome news [IC an active role in ensuring could be left permanently with appropriate social Yours etc., 14/05/2020]. that the area they/their open during service. No distancing. Again, this is not Frank Burke, The hierarchy must be family occupy is sterilised problem is insurmountable. an insurmountable problem. Terenure, Co. Dublin. seen to show leadership and before they take their seats Pope Francis has called Where there is a will God responsibility. Most churches in the church and very for priests to be creative will find a way. are ideal for social distancing importantly that their area in finding ways of safely Yours etc., Virtual Mass can never and by providing perhaps is re-sterilised when leaving. providing the Sacraments Ann Kehoe, replace the real thing more Masses on Sunday One of the big issues causing especially the Sacrament Castleknock, Co. Dublin. Dear Editor, There is no practicing Catholic who is not greatly missing the sacraments in these times, and having Let’s bring back the Irish dancing the ability to engage with online liturgies at least allows us to continue as a community in some vein. However, we need to should feature proceed with extreme caution before we send out the wrong Sacrament of Reconciliation during Mass message here. ‘Virtual’ versions of the Holy sacrifice of the Dear Editor, I was delighted to read of like my encounter with the checkout Dear Editor, The Holy Mass is, first Mass, liturgies, and the Sacraments, can never replace our Fr Pat McGinley’s Car Park Confession person. of all, a holy celebration, because it personal attendance and obligation. initiative in the Deanery of Tallaght [IC Indeed, this could surely be offered is Christ who acts in the person of There have already been alarming calls for discussions 07/05/2020]. in every parish car park as groups a priest. Jesus Christ offers himself such as whether confessions can be simply done over the I am shortly going out to do my of four are already allowed to meet for us, as he offered on the Cross at phone, and we have seen the beauty of the Sacrament of 10-day grocery shop to keep my family outside observing social distancing. Calvary. first Holy Communion reduced to a TV style show. I am sure alive for the next 10 days and limit my A little bit of creative thinking The first purpose is to give that those who are looking for innovative ways to celebrate contact with others. around issues like this would go a long glory to God, our creator, on the Sacraments have good intentions at heart, but is this In the supermarket I will encounter way. whom we depend for everything. the message that we want to send to our young, and to the and chat a bit with a checkout person For me this is an essential ‘service’ Acknowledging Him as the Lord, secular world? While we all appreciate the advantages of behind a plastic screen at the end of that I and others are missing badly God, we need to praise and glorify modern technology in this time, it is important that our my shop. and as a scientist myself, science could Him. In the Old Testament we read leaders send out a clear message that the sacred can not be I would also very much like to avail help us get over the hurdles here and that David danced for the Lord (2 compromised for convenience. In a world where everything of the Sacrament of Reconciliation open up nourishing spiritual pathways Samuel 6:14): “And David danced is instantaneous at the flick of a button, can we not afford having been away for so long as I feel currently blocked off. And it could before the Lord with all his might…” Christ the same patience as he affords us? it would both help me and the people be an ideal teaching moment on the The first purpose of the Eucharist Yours etc., I live with. value and efficacy of the sacrament for is to give glory to God, our creator, Mark Quinn, That would involve a one to everyone. on whom we depend for everything. Castleabar, Co. Mayo. one relatively short encounter that Yours etc., Acknowledging him as God, we need with a suitable screen would be in Brendan Conroy, to praise and glorify him. When circumstances that could look very Windy Arbour, Co. Dublin. Pope Francis visited Africa, the locals Right to life must be danced enthusiastically during his last Mass there. So why not have ‘respected and restored’ Follow Christ – pray and some of our younger Irish dancers Dear Editor, We congratulate all our medical staff, doctors, do this every Sunday during the nurses, etc. for working so hard to save the lives of our main Mass. people who have been infected by coronavirus and our acting repent to keep Satan at bay Surely this is something every parish could do? What a great way Government assisting us all the time. Dear Editor, I beg to write as I will legal to protect the born and not the to give glory to God and celebrate We think somewhere there is a message conveyed that be judged here and hereafter how I unborn. the Eucharist using our own culture. while we are struggling to save lives, abortion (certain death) developed my talents. I either use them Prayer and repent will help to keep Indeed, such a service would attract can be allowed and is encouraged to kill our own people who right or lose them. We only pass this Satan at bay. Follow Christ like Mary – a bigger attendance and thereby give are unable to speak for themselves. Please God the right to way once and Jesus tells us: as you sow no conditions. even greater glory to our God. life will be respected and restored. – so shall you reap. Yours etc., Yours etc., Yours etc., At 81 years and after a long life of Bridget Sherlock, Liam de Paor, Seán and Monica Hassett, work and prayer, it does not make sense Mitchelstown, Carrickane, Co. Cavan. Mooncoin, Co. Kilkenny. in the context of Covid-19 for it to be Co. Cork. The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | Opinion ||29

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No coincidence NI churches acebook community reopen on Each week we publish a selection of comments JPII’s centenary from The Irish Catholic Facebook page Dear Editor, On many occasions since our churches Do you think small public Masses were closed due to the Covid-19 restrictions did I should begin sooner than recall the inspiring words currently planned? of St John Paul II at his inaugural Mass in St Peter’s Square in October 1978, Mass should never have been cancelled. How cowardly when he urged us to: “Be are the prelates? This is the definition of lukewarm! not afraid, to open and even – Marc Harris to throw wide the doors to Christ!” The age profile of a lot of parishioners would be a worry Surely it is no coincidence (Woodies’ customers may be a different in that regard). that it was on the special The cocooners are considered more vulnerable to this centennial anniversary of virus. I feel if churches open earlier a lot of parishioners his birth on May 18 that the would feel obliged and want to go, putting themselves Northern Ireland Executive at greater risk of contracting the virus and dying. I announced the reopening of don’t want unnecessary deaths of parishioners and our church doors. possible illness of health staff caring for them, if it can be Yours etc., prevented. I prefer for lives to be protected. Jim Doherty, Deirdre Colwell Derry City, Co. Derry. – If garden centres can open why oh why are the churches not opening? Come on bishops please come out and The comfort of Mass in God’s house voice what the people are saying. We want to be able to Dear Editor, I think the we would go to the church Day and the following hear Mass on the internet go to Holy Mass and Confession. – Mary King worst thing that happened and ask God to help us. Sunday then the priest was but that’s not much use to during this pandemic was God does not change, for told not to say any more people like me who do not A lot of elderly people attend Mass in our church in the closing of churches. I still his help all we have to do public Masses. have internet. Derry, and the elderly are one of the most vulnerable to can’t believe that at a time is put our trust in him. So However, he still opens There is no comfort to this virus, so when the churches are reopened, we have when we most needed to go please open our churches his church every day for a compare with the comfort to ensure there is a plan in place to prevent anyone to church and pray, we found and return to morning Mass. few hours to give people the we get from going to God’s getting infected! – John Joseph McGowan that the churches were Those who pray together choice to pray and thank house to hear Mass. locked. will stay together. I am lucky God it’s great to see so many Weekday Masses in most churches are poorly attended I am 80 years of age and I can go to our next parish people will travel to that Yours etc., and there is lots of room for social distancing. all my life if we were worried about seven miles away, I did church to pray. Mary Murphy, – Mary Kelly or anxious about anything get Mass there on St Patrick’s People say that they can Finglas, Co. Dublin. What about using local Mass rocks again in smaller True love is not TV show’s Keeping Church alive groups? – Paul Lennon ‘portrayal of empty souls’ We have many elderly priests who need to mind their during Covid-19 storm health and not be put under pressure so it’s up to Dear Editor, Maria Byrne’s succinct summary of the Dear Editor, I must commend Fr Kevin McNamara in younger parishioners to help clean, prepare church and television adaptation of the Sally Rooney novel Normal Moyvan, who has thought of a creative solution in this monitor numbers. – Frank Browne People [IC 21/05/2020] showed it up for what it is: a portrayal time of pandemic which allows people without the of empty souls, attempting to fill their emptiness with more facility to watch online Mass to be able to partake in his of the same! car park Masses, which you covered in a recent article [IC The bishops need to publish a Connell and Marianne’s active embracing of the culture of 21/05/2020]. This is a disheartening time for Catholics in death confirms this, whilst having reviewers salivating over many ways, it’s so uplifting to see people stepping up and plan for a safe return to Mass the last goodbyes of Catholic guilt. doing their best despite the obstacles. Contrast these soulless persons with the princely It’s so easy to give up and do nothing, of course we Why the big rush to get everything opened? We have to examples of holiness offered by Italian millennials such as should all be staying at home as much as we can and think of the welfare of the priests as well. Are all those Blessed Chiara Bandona; the servants of God: Chiara Petrillo following the guidelines set out by the health authorities wanting all the services back prepared to bring their and Guilia Gabreilla (who died in 2011) as well as the soon to but that doesn’t mean we can’t think of different ways of sanitising materials with them and wipe down everything doing things. This is a time to take initiative and be brave, beatified Carlo Acutis. they have touched? – Kathleen Smith It was Carlo who stated that sadness results with us be creative like Fr McNamara, let’s find a new way of doing things rather than sitting on our thumbs and waiting for looking at ourselves, whilst to be happy we need only to look There will be no early return – no pubs, no sports with to God. this pandemic to be over. This storm of Covid-19 isn’t going crowds, no churches. Get over it. – Jim Duffy This, Ms Rooney, is what true love looks like, the love anywhere anytime soon, so rather than sitting below deck, that endures for eternity, not a 12-part sex romp that is both let’s make sure the ship doesn’t sink, let’s keep Church life Social distancing is equally possible in Churches as it vacuous as well as tedious. alive and vibrant at a time when it’s more important than is in shops. In fact it is much easier since people can Yours etc., ever to do so. be told where to sit in a previously sanitised area and Fr John McCallion, Yours etc., Coalisland, Margaret Healy, won’t be moving around as happens in shops. The Co. Tyrone. Cork City, Co. Cork. seats, etc. can be sterilised again at the end. They will not be picking stuff up and leaving it back again or using trolleys as they do in shops. So why are churches in Letters to the Editor Ireland different to churches elsewhere. This is not that All letters should include tion process which does not merits of letters. We do not or verse. Letters to the Editor difficult if planned properly in my opinion. the writer’s full name, postal amount to a commitment to publish pseudonyms or should only be sent to The – Sheelagh Hanly address and telephone publish. other formulae to conceal Irish Catholic, and not other numbers (day and evening). We regret that we the writer’s identity, such publications. Letters should God knows where we are and why; let’s listen for God’s Letter writers may receive cannot give prior notice of as “name and address not exceed 300 words and divine direction! – Cynthia Neary a subsequent telephone a letter’s publication date, with editor”. We do not may be shortened for space call from The Irish Catholic acknowledge unpublished print letters addressed to requirements. What do you think? Join in the conversation as part of our authentica- letters or discuss the someone else, open letters, on The Irish Catholic Facebook page 30 | Spirituality || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020

What faithful friendship means grew up in a close family and That’s what it means to be birthday, or of not being able to one of hardest things I ever faithful. It is interesting how stay in touch with someone you did was to leave home and the Christian scriptures define cherish. Betrayal is moving away family at the age of 17 to enter community and fidelity. In the from the truth and virtue you the novitiate of the Missionary Fr Rolheiser Acts of the Apostles we read that once shared with that person you IOblates of Mary Immaculate. That before Pentecost those in the cherish. novitiate year wasn’t easy. I missed first Christian community were Betrayal is a change of soul. my family intensely and stayed all “huddled in one room”. And whom became close friends. In Occasional visits? Occasional We are unfaithful to family in touch with them insofar as the here, though physically together, more than 40 years of teaching I emails, texts, calls? Remembering and friends when we become a rules and communication of the ironically they were not in real have met with several thousand birthdays and anniversaries? Class different person morally so as to no day allowed. community with each other, not students and made many friends reunions? Attending weddings and longer share a common spirit with I wrote a letter home every really a family, and not really among them. Writing and public funerals? them. week and my mother wrote back to faithful to each other. lectures have brought thousands of Obviously doing these would You can be living in the same me faithfully each week. people into my life. Though most be good, though that would also house with someone, share daily I still have and cherish those of them passed through my life constitute a full-time occupation. Betrayal is not a bread and conversation with him letters. I had left home but stayed without meaningful connection, Something else must be being question❛❛ of separation or her, and not be a faithful family in touch, a faithful family member. member or friend; just as you But my life became a lot more some became lifelong friends. asked of us here, namely, a fidelity by distance, of forgetting can be a faithful friend or family complex and socially demanding I share this not because I think that’s not contingent on emails, member and not see that friend or after that. I moved to a seminary it’s unique, but rather because it’s texts, calls, and occasional visits. an anniversary or a family member for 40 years. Being and began to live in a community typical. But what can lie deeper than faithful in remembering birthdays with 60 others, with people Today, that’s really everyone’s tangible human contact? What birthday, or of not being is wonderful, but fidelity is more entering and leaving constantly story. More and more friends pass can be more real than that? The able to stay in touch with about remembering who you were throughout my seven years there through our lives so that at a point answer is fidelity, fidelity as the so that by the time I’d finished the question necessarily arises: gift of a shared moral soul, fidelity someone you cherish” when that birth was so special to how does one remain faithful to as the gift of trust, and fidelity as you. my seminary training I had lived Then after receiving the Holy one’s family, to old friends, former remaining true to who you were Fidelity is about maintaining in close community with over Spirit, they literally break out of neighbours, former classmates, when you were in tangible human moral affinity. 100 different men. That brought that one room and scatter all over former students, former colleagues, community and contact with those To the best of my abilities, I try its own challenges. People you’d the Earth so that many of them and to old acquaintances? What people who are no longer part of grown close to would leave the never see each other again and to stay in contact with the family, does fidelity to them ask for? your daily life. community to be replaced by now, geographically at a distance old friends, former neighbours, others so that each year there from each other, ironically they former classmates, former was a new community and new Friends pass through our lives so become real family, become a students, former colleagues and friendships. ❛❛ genuine community, and live in old acquaintances. Mostly it’s a bit that at a point the question necessarily fidelity to each other. beyond me. Friends At the end of the day, fidelity So I put my trust in moral In the years following seminary, arises: how does one remain faithful is not about how often you fidelity. I try as best I can to commit that pattern began to grow physically connect with someone myself to keeping the same soul I exponentially. Graduate studies to one’s family, to old friends, former but about living within a shared had when I left home as a young took me to other countries and spirit. Betrayal is not a question boy and which characterised and brought a whole series of new neighbours, former classmates, former of separation by distance, of defined me when I met all those persons into my life, many of students, former colleagues...” forgetting an anniversary or a wonderful people along the way. Personal Profile Family& Instilling peace in students with religion Page 34 LifestyleThe Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 Education during lockdown

here was recently a call due to the pandemic, especially socialising; children can be left for schools to reopen so Róise McGagh looks at the due to increased screen time. vulnerable to online exploitation Sixth Class pupils could affect Covid-19 has had on “The coronavirus pandemic and grooming, as some preda- say goodbye to their has led to an unprecedented rise tors attempt to exploit the pan- classmates and teachers. children’s education and in screen time,” said Executive demic. There is also an increased T risk of unstructured screen time Catherine Martin TD, Green what you can do to help Director of Global Partnership to Party spokesperson for edu- End Violence, Dr Howard Taylor. leading to cyberbullying and cation said: “They are being your kids out at this time “School closures and strict exposure to potentially harmful deprived of the opportunity to containment measures mean and violent content. say goodbye to classmates whom also missing out on some of their ing out on one term of school. more and more families are While teachers have sent on work for students to com- they have sat beside for eight education. For Leaving and Junior According to Unicef, around 1.5 relying on technology and digital plete at home and some will years, before moving on to dif- Certificate students this would billion students are no longer able solutions to keep children learn- be through online resources, ferent secondary schools.” have been a time focused on revi- to physically go to school. That is ing, entertained and connected it is important to continue to Children from age four to 18 sion, and really committing what almost 90% of all primary, second- to the outside world, but not regulate screen time and keep are missing out a huge chunk of they have learned in class to ary and third level pupils in the all children have the necessary memory. And for other students world. And not all of those schools children safe online. their life at the moment, Confir- knowledge, skills and resources It is very difficult for children mation, Communion, sports days, many topics have been left on a closed conveniently in the lead up to keep themselves safe online.” cliff-hanger since March. to the longest holiday of the year. to teach themselves material exams, graduations and socialis- With more time being spent given by teachers, whether that’s ing. Most importantly, although In way it was lucky that Unicef also stated that chil- on online platforms often for children in Ireland are only miss- dren are at increased risk of harm they might not realise it, they are educational purposes as well as » Continued on Page 33 32 | Family & Lifestyle || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 Family News Overcoming AND EVENTS MENTAL HEALTH IMPACT OF VIRUS CAN BE SEVERE The mental health impacts of Covid-19 may linger after the pandemic is over according to new research. It found some patients hospitalised due to cultural denial the virus are likely to suffer from anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder months or years after they leave hospital. The risks may be higher for the general public as well. Widespread job losses, media overload and the isolating effects of social distancing may lead to an increase in mental of spirituality health problems, experts warn. About 15% of patients hospitalised with SARS or MERS, two coronaviruses closely related to the one that causes Covid-19, suffered from depression or anxiety up to three years after they left the hospital, according to a new study in the journal The Lancet Psychiatry. “However, most people don’t suffer a mental illness, even after being in [intensive care], and the majority of people returned to work,” said University College London psychiatrist and study co-author Jonathan Rogers.

FREE ONLINE MUSIC CLASS ne of the hidden closed to the mysterious in life, in which it seeks individual AIMS TO BUILD COMMUNITY challenges of modern to the expression of the sacred. expression. And that presents A free online webinar will give participants life has to do with Mindful We are in danger of losing us with the problem, the the chance to explore the challenges and the exercise of free access to our innate spirituality challenge, of how to reawaken benefits of making and sharing music online, will. So many of our attitudes to living because modern culture denies that vital sensitivity to spirit Olife and how we habitually live and how to live our lives from with a focus on community building. it a place in public discourse. The online class will run from 10.30am-12 it remain hidden in plain sight. And that problem is exacerbated that heightened sensitivity, noon on June 11. Organisers say: “We hope Many people remain blissfully because even in the culture of from that growing awareness to inspire best practice and build confidence unaware of the extent to which the Church to which so many of of who we are called to be. in the sector to explore online community their worldview and their Dr Noel my generation saw themselves The good news is that building in music projects…” choices in life are influenced to Keating affiliated, there was little room meditation awakens us to our Several people will offer case studies an extraordinary extent by their for discourse about spirituality. innate spirituality and nurtures our desire to live our lives with including Sarah Jones who’ll speak conditioning. Religion, yes, with a dominant greater authenticity. Through about ‘Delivering the National Youth Folk In every family there are focus on communal Church meditation we can find that Ensemble Residential Online’, run by the accepted ways of seeing, services, mental prayer and the role of the Catholic Church deep centre within ourselves English Folk Dance and Song Society. interpreting and understanding personal devotion but little the world and as we grow up in Irish life. It would have been where we become grounded in Abigail D’Amore from West Midlands room for or value placed upon these become so embedded in very difficult in the 1950s to the present moment, neither Music’s Big Play 2020 will focus on: personal spiritual experience. how we see ourselves that the openly operate outside of the clinging to our conditioning ‘Creating community and celebration Spirituality can be defined in familiar way of doing things can social norms dictated by such or culture nor resisting the through online sharing of music secular as well as faith contexts be seen as the only right way deference to those in positions possibility of something new. performances and experiences.’ as a natural drive in every of doing things. Likewise, we of authority in the Church. Yet This heightened sensitivity Clare Cressey from Live Music Now human person to live life as sometimes consciously, but more when we look back at those to spirit unleashes creative Wales Cymru will look at supporting youth authentically as possible. Love mental health through online music project often than not unconsciously, times today we can see clearly possibility within us which is at the heart of that innate is ultimately rooted in the ‘Soundtrack’. imbibe the culture of the society how that culture perpetuated structure of consciousness Through the case studies and discussion, they in which we live so that the inequality and gave rise to the itself and as we grow in aim to identify common issues and explore norms of the society in which we Industrial Schools, the Magdalen consciousness of the true- solutions, look at functions and benefits of grew up become our norms too. Laundries and huge inequalities self, as we move along the platforms and software which enable people to Or sometimes, when we reject in education, employment contemplative path, from build communities online and more. those norms, we throw out the opportunities and gender awareness to attention, to Registration at: https://www.eventbrite. baby with the bathwater with discrimination. compassion and compassionate co.uk/e/online-music-projects-ideas- the result that the rejection of Today we are equally blinded action, we discover that for-working-with-groups-tickets- such norms can bli nd us to what by the cultural conditioning being grounded in this 105976994042?aff=ebdssbonlinesearch was inherently valuable in them. of our time. In years to come people will look back and ask awareness impacts on all of our CHILDREN WITH CANCER NOT AT Spirituality can be how we could have tolerated the relationships and all aspects of our life. As we begin to HIGHER RISK FROM COVID-19 ❛❛ conditions of asylum seekers defined in secular as today, our unwillingness to live contemplatively, we find Children and teens with cancer are not at a Magdalen Laundries well as faith contexts respond with compassion to ourselves making our own small higher risk of being affected by Covid-19 than but unique contribution to the needs of refugees across dynamism; love is our true children without cancer, according to a study in as a natural drive in co-creating a better world. the world and our failure to nature and the true direction of JAMA Oncology. every human person tackle climate change in any our development. This innate i After 40 years in the Recent studies have found that adults with to live life as authenti- meaningful way. gift which can be experienced education sector Noel Keating cancer and Covid-19 have a higher rate of was awarded a PhD for his cally as possible” There is an urgent need in by all calls us to be open to that death, while paediatric cancer patients appear modern society to recognise which transcends the ego and, research into the child’s not to be at similar risk. They are neither more I was a child of the 1950s, that one of the blind-spots for many but not all, involves experience of meditation and like to acquire Covid-19 nor to develop severe perhaps the last decade of the today is that the turn against a belief in God. This inbuilt its spiritual fruits. Noel now illness if they catch it. dominance of the Catholic religious expression in public impulse is the force of creativity leads, in a voluntary capacity, “We are encouraged by these latest findings Church in Ireland. Over the discourse suppresses – perhaps and innovation within us; it a project which offers free that kids with cancer are not more endangered previous decades the Catholic even represses – our natural is that which calls us to hope in-service to primary schools by Covid-19 and their symptoms are mild Church in Ireland had achieved spiritual awareness. Most of and to dream of a better future who may wish to consider like in healthy children,” senior study author a significant level of power us, unconsciously, only give for humanity. When we pay introducing meditation as a Andrew Kung, MD, PhD, chair of MSK Kids and influence. The first Irish attention to that which society attention to it, it guides us in the whole-school practice. Noel at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in governments (under both recognises as being worthy of direction of genuine growth. But is author of Meditation with New York City said. Costello and de Valera) were our attention. As a consequence, this innate drive is inevitably Children: A Resource for very deferential in relation to we have by-in-large become constrained by the culture Teachers and Parents. 32 | Family & Lifestyle || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | Family & Lifestyle ||33 Family News » Continued from Page 31 Overcoming AND EVENTS MENTAL HEALTH IMPACT OF VIRUS CAN BE SEVERE The mental health impacts of Covid-19 may linger after the pandemic is over according to new research. It found some patients hospitalised due to cultural denial Bairbre Cahill the virus are likely to suffer from anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder alf the time I couldn’t in Irish Catholicism, referenced months or years after they leave hospital. tell you what day primarily in terms of Confirma- The risks may be higher for the general of the week it is. I tion. The reality is that without public as well. Widespread job losses, media can’t get my head the gift of the Holy Spirit we overload and the isolating effects of social Haround the notion that we are would not be Christians. In his distancing may lead to an increase in mental of spirituality at the end of May but I know letter to the people of Ephesus health problems, experts warn. without doubt that this Sunday Paul prays that God will “give About 15% of patients hospitalised with SARS is Pentecost. Pentecost crowns you the power through his Spirit or MERS, two coronaviruses closely related to Easter, bringing the liturgical for your hidden self to grow the one that causes Covid-19, suffered from season of Easter to a close and strong, so that Christ may live depression or anxiety up to three years after powerfully reminding us that in your hearts through faith,” they left the hospital, according to a new study the resurrection is an ongoing (Eph 3:16-17). Paul is clear in the journal The Lancet Psychiatry. reality. It is the Holy Spirit who that it is in and through the Holy “However, most people don’t suffer a mental makes Jesus present in our Spirit that we come to know and illness, even after being in [intensive care], and on or offline; especially under the Everyone is in the same position, tious with what kind of learning daily lives. This Pentecost more understand the love of Christ the majority of people returned to work,” said stresses caused by the current cli- so while it is important to encour- happens at the minute. than ever, we need to think and in turn, the love of God. It is about what that means. this love which, working in us, University College London psychiatrist and mate. And parents are struggling with age your child to continue with their “Some might use this time to study co-author Jonathan Rogers. There is amazing work going does infinitely more than we can the level of involvement they should school work, it’s important not to learn new skills or do something on across the world looking for ask or imagine (Eph3:20). have in their child’s work, especially put too much pressure on yourself they don’t usually do, and that’s FREE ONLINE MUSIC CLASS treatments and vaccines for ne of the hidden closed to the mysterious in life, in which it seeks individual with those in secondary school. or them. Kids might be finding it great if it works for them. How- AIMS TO BUILD COMMUNITY challenges of modern expression. And that presents Covid-19. I listen from all around to the expression of the sacred. While some kids are happy to tough to get motivated for reasons ever, do not feel pressure to do life has to do with We are in danger of losing us with the problem, the the world and I am filled with A free online webinar will give participants Mindful sit and tackle a few sums, for many you can’t help, like a lack of class- what others are doing – do what the exercise of free access to our innate spirituality challenge, of how to reawaken room atmosphere, competition, such a sense of wonder and the chance to explore the challenges and parents, encouraging their children works for you and your family. benefits of making and sharing music online, will. So many of our attitudes to living because modern culture denies that vital sensitivity to spirit to do school work at home can be practical resources or special learn- awe – and I pray. I ask the Holy Olife and how we habitually live and how to live our lives from Remember, you are doing enough Spirit for those gifts of wisdom with a focus on community building. it a place in public discourse. stressful; on top of the usual worries ing support. by simply focusing on getting and understanding, knowledge The online class will run from 10.30am-12 it remain hidden in plain sight. And that problem is exacerbated that heightened sensitivity, of living under restrictions. “There are also many ways you through each day as best you can,” and right judgement, cour- noon on June 11. Organisers say: “We hope Many people remain blissfully because even in the culture of from that growing awareness are already promoting your child’s says Dr Shore. age and reverence for these to inspire best practice and build confidence unaware of the extent to which the Church to which so many of of who we are called to be. development and learning without Sleep, food, researchers so that they will in the sector to explore online community their worldview and their Dr Noel my generation saw themselves The good news is that doing school work; activities like ❛❛ be able to find what we need. I building in music projects…” choices in life are influenced to meditation awakens us to our baking/cooking, gardening, art, Keating affiliated, there was little room exercise and social Children from age believe in the power of the Holy Several people will offer case studies an extraordinary extent by their for discourse about spirituality. innate spirituality and nurtures household chores all teach your ❛❛ our desire to live our lives with Spirit to open our minds, help us including Sarah Jones who’ll speak conditioning. Religion, yes, with a dominant contact are the child valuable life skills for their four to 18 are missing greater authenticity. Through to see more deeply, think more about ‘Delivering the National Youth Folk In every family there are focus on communal Church future,” says Dr Shore. meditation we can find that four key routines out a huge chunk creatively – to quite literally be Ensemble Residential Online’, run by the accepted ways of seeing, services, mental prayer and “Sleep, food, exercise and social the role of the Catholic Church deep centre within ourselves contact are the four key routines inspired. So in this time when the English Folk Dance and Song Society. interpreting and understanding personal devotion but little necessary for you of their life at the the world and as we grow up in Irish life. It would have been where we become grounded in necessary for you and your child’s sacraments of the Church are Abigail D’Amore from West Midlands room for or value placed upon these become so embedded in very difficult in the 1950s to the present moment, neither well-being. By focusing on these, moment, Confirmation, Pentecost crowns not available to us, it is worth Music’s Big Play 2020 will focus on: personal spiritual experience. and your child’s how we see ourselves that the openly operate outside of the clinging to our conditioning you are modelling to your child ❛❛ reflecting on what is sustaining ‘Creating community and celebration Spirituality can be defined in Communion, Easter, bringing the familiar way of doing things can social norms dictated by such or culture nor resisting the well-being” the importance of these routines and nurturing our faith. Where through online sharing of music secular as well as faith contexts are we encountering God in be seen as the only right way deference to those in positions possibility of something new. Teachers bring an intangible as well as promoting your child’s liturgical season of performances and experiences.’ as a natural drive in every sports days, exams, the everyday? What draws us of doing things. Likewise, we of authority in the Church. Yet This heightened sensitivity creativity, enthusiasm and focus resilience and ability to cope when Clare Cressey from Live Music Now human person to live life as into deeper knowledge and sometimes consciously, but more when we look back at those to spirit unleashes creative to learning that is very difficult to life is challenging.” graduations and Easter to a close Wales Cymru will look at supporting youth authentically as possible. Love understanding of God’s love? often than not unconsciously, times today we can see clearly possibility within us which replicate in the home when you were mental health through online music project is at the heart of that innate socialising” and powerfully And consequently, what is imbibe the culture of the society how that culture perpetuated is ultimately rooted in the never preparing to do so, and when ‘Soundtrack’. demanded of us? in which we live so that the inequality and gave rise to the structure of consciousness technology is always sitting near – What definitely won’t help reminding us that the Through the case studies and discussion, they It is in and through the Holy norms of the society in which we Industrial Schools, the Magdalen itself and as we grow in children feel safe and normal is if aim to identify common issues and explore tempting to distract. resurrection is an Spirit that we are baptised and grew up become our norms too. Laundries and huge inequalities consciousness of the true- parents are overly stressed. The solutions, look at functions and benefits of There are a few things to consider become one body. It is through Or sometimes, when we reject in education, employment self, as we move along the World Health Organization has ongoing reality” platforms and software which enable people to if you’re concerned about your child’s the action of the Holy Spirit in those norms, we throw out the opportunities and gender contemplative path, from warned that the pandemic could build communities online and more. education. HSE Clinical Psycholo- I think we also need to our lives that we are called to be baby with the bathwater with discrimination. awareness to attention, to have a severe impact on mental Registration at: https://www.eventbrite. gist Dr Jennifer Shore recently wrote be inspired. We need that the ongoing presence of Jesus the result that the rejection of Today we are equally blinded compassion and compassionate health worldwide. So make sure co.uk/e/online-music-projects-ideas- about how to focus on your child and indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the world. What does that such norms can bli nd us to what by the cultural conditioning action, we discover that for-working-with-groups-tickets- what they need during Covid-19. to take some time out for yourself to know that we are not in a mean at this time? An image was inherently valuable in them. of our time. In years to come being grounded in this 105976994042?aff=ebdssbonlinesearch Her advice was to first consider and set a good example by letting spiritual desert at the moment. that keeps coming back to me is people will look back and ask awareness impacts on all of our where your child is in their educa- your kids know it’s okay not to feel Yes, there is a loneliness and of Jesus washing the feet of his how we could have tolerated the relationships and all aspects CHILDREN WITH CANCER NOT AT Spirituality can be tion. There are long term impacts of great about the situation we are in a sense of disconnectedness friends at the last supper. Before conditions of asylum seekers of our life. As we begin to HIGHER RISK FROM COVID-19 defined❛❛ in secular as letting schoolwork slide, especially at the moment. without the Mass. I have no he breaks bread with them he today, our unwillingness to live contemplatively, we find when children are in Fifth Year or Children and teens with cancer are not at a Magdalen Laundries ourselves making our own small While you’re attempting to help doubt that the first time I am kneels to wash their dirty, dusty, well as faith contexts respond with compassion to Second Year, where students are higher risk of being affected by Covid-19 than but unique contribution to your kids to learn it can be good to able to return to my own parish smelly, rough feet. In this tender the needs of refugees across dynamism; love is our true soon to enter exam years. It is also children without cancer, according to a study in as a natural drive in co-creating a better world. think of some positive outcomes and receive the Eucharist I and intimate gesture Jesus the world and our failure to nature and the true direction of especially important for young JAMA Oncology. of Covid-19’s impact on education. will find it a deeply emotional acknowledges the journey his every human person tackle climate change in any our development. This innate i After 40 years in the primary school students to keep on Recent studies have found that adults with Universities and schools are forced experience. I would love it to friends have travelled with him to live life as authenti- meaningful way. gift which can be experienced education sector Noel Keating top of reading and writing in order cancer and Covid-19 have a higher rate of to be extra creative to deliver their have happened on this Pente- and offers them a powerful There is an urgent need in by all calls us to be open to that was awarded a PhD for his to continue the progress they were example of service. death, while paediatric cancer patients appear cally as possible” lessons and the World Economic cost Sunday but the reality is modern society to recognise which transcends the ego and, research into the child’s making in school. Daily life has gone through a we are at the very least weeks People are travelling a not to be at similar risk. They are neither more Forum has suggested the pandemic I was a child of the 1950s, that one of the blind-spots for many but not all, involves experience of meditation and “Hearing about what other par- dramatic change, and maybe that away from that and when it myriad of strange, stressful like to acquire Covid-19 nor to develop severe is driving a long-overdue revolu- perhaps the last decade of the today is that the turn against a belief in God. This inbuilt its spiritual fruits. Noel now ents are doing with their children warrants a change for the kind of does happen it will not feel in and challenging journeys at illness if they catch it. tion in the sector through remote dominance of the Catholic religious expression in public impulse is the force of creativity leads, in a voluntary capacity, does not mean you should feel under learning that children do in this any way normal with restricted the moment. We are called to learning. This could in turn have an “We are encouraged by these latest findings Church in Ireland. Over the discourse suppresses – perhaps and innovation within us; it a project which offers free pressure about what you are doing time. If your child isn’t missing out numbers and social distancing. wash each other’s feet – not that kids with cancer are not more endangered previous decades the Catholic even represses – our natural is that which calls us to hope in-service to primary schools with your child,” says Dr Shore, “The on a huge amount by not being at impact on the quality and acces- But we have the Holy Spirit, literally in these days of social by Covid-19 and their symptoms are mild Church in Ireland had achieved spiritual awareness. Most of and to dream of a better future who may wish to consider time you spend playing and interact- school right now, it’s still good to sibility of your own child’s learning, the one who enables us to live distancing but the Spirit can like in healthy children,” senior study author a significant level of power us, unconsciously, only give for humanity. When we pay introducing meditation as a ing with your child, cuddled up on keep a routine that includes some and for those who currently have and move and have our being in guide us as to how best we Andrew Kung, MD, PhD, chair of MSK Kids and influence. The first Irish attention to that which society attention to it, it guides us in the whole-school practice. Noel the couch watching a movie, allow- form of education every day, so difficulty accessing any education the presence of God, wherever can be that tender, gentle, at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in governments (under both recognises as being worthy of direction of genuine growth. But is author of Meditation with ing them space to play video games that they continue to grow and see at all. Things will undoubtedly get we are. I’ve often thought that presence of God’s love for New York City said. Costello and de Valera) were our attention. As a consequence, this innate drive is inevitably Children: A Resource for and talk to their friends can be just learning as an essential part of life. better – and we can start to look the Holy Spirit got a raw deal each other. very deferential in relation to we have by-in-large become constrained by the culture Teachers and Parents. as important.” It’s also okay to not be overly ambi- forward to that moment now. 34 | Family & Lifestyle || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 Instilling peace in students with religion

higher diploma in NUI Galway and thought he let himself down and now works in Athlone Community his followers down. So, morally School, a “large and wonderful” I couldn’t support a party where Personal Profile school, as she describes it, with one of the main core values was 1,300 students and more than disrespected.” 120 staff. Sarah spent nearly an entire Teaching year in the political wilderness, Sarah sees a great joy in teaching, researching the other Irish parties. even in the challenges that are One of them, the recently formed presented. She believes that the Aontú, impressed her with their different personalities and the ups policies and their integrity, but and downs makes her vocation all she took her time before joining. the more enjoyable. “Students will challenge you Ruadhán Jones sometimes and you’ll come As a young girl, up against many different Sarah❛❛ and her family aith has always been an personalities,” she says. “But I important part of her life, think if you encourage students, enjoyed attending explains Sarah Seoige, a if you try to understand from a Mass regularly teacher of religion and Irish student’s point of view, that’s what at Athlone Community School and an makes a teaching career so much and prayer was an F more enjoyable. You really learn active member of political party Aontú. Sarah considers herself very from each other and embrace important part of fortunate to have had “two of the most each other.” wonderful parents any child could have Much of her time is spent their daily life” asked for”. teaching Irish since religion was “What they stand for are As a young girl, Sarah and her family made an optional subject by things I would stand for myself. the Longford and Westmeath enjoyed attending Mass regularly and I didn’t rush into becoming a Education and Training Board. But prayer was an important part of their member. I wanted to do my daily life. she particularly enjoys teaching religion, which has played such an research, check what they were important role in her own life. about, make sure that they were Sarah spent nearly “Religion is just not given the true to their word. Certainly, an❛❛ entire year in the airtime,” she says. “It’s categorised Aontú seem and are so far a party into one little box, whereas when of integrity and honesty.” political wilderness, I teach it, I would look at it as a While the lockdown has made researching the other huge spectrum from personal it difficult to teach and work development, dealing with stress for Aontú, Sarah believes the and anxiety, teaching little coping Irish parties. two passions: teaching and medicine. pandemic has led to an increase Peace techniques. Then there’s the world In the end, teaching won out. in faith. “I had a great interest in the “I think within any life, every single religions, the similarities and whole process of aw Mass and person yearns for a peace within “I decided to go down the “I have many friends who are teaching route because my heart differences. I would embrace all what a Mass had to offer,” she their soul,” she says. “I think that religions, and in the past, it was surgeons and GPs,” she explains. felt called to it,” she explains. says. “Sometimes people don’t peace can only ever be found when absolutely fantastic.” “A lot of these people are turning “I wanted to be an influence on acknowledge its importance or a person realises there’s more to life to prayer to help them in their young people’s lives, and I liked what’s actually going on during than material things. In my opinion vocation of serving and helping to think I would be a positive Politics the steps of a Mass. I was in that peace is really found with God.” Another important aspect of her vulnerable people who are teacher. I would always encourage Fifth Class or something and I It is this understanding of upbringing was politics, which suffering as a result of Covid-19. religion that Sarah seeks to instil in students, no matter what, to try remember sitting there really she describes as being “embedded I also see colleagues when at her students. their best. I wanted to be a role taken aback by the beauty of in my veins”. Sarah’s family were staff meetings. Even the younger “To really embrace that student model for them, to really help strong Fianna Fáil supporters and the Mass and the ritual, and the students have tuned in to Mass in front of you, to listen to them, young people in achieving their up to a year ago so was she. Eucharist. I was fascinated by it.” to see their talents and help them dreams.” “I would have been a huge online and started to pray at night. This fascination led Sarah to pursue their strengths. These are the After secondary school, she Fianna Fáil supporter all my life,” “Without a doubt, I genuinely study religion in secondary school, core values of teaching,” Sarah says. went on to study teaching in she says. “But I was not happy think that the amount of people and eventually college, feeling the When she was in secondary NUI Maynooth and St Patrick’s when Mícheál Martin, who I really turning back to religion is call to teach it to young people. school, Sarah was torn between her Pontifical University. She did her looked up to, signed for abortion. I wonderful,” she says. Sweet Still time to make your Easter Simnel Cake ith Eastertide coming to an end l 225g glace cherries washed and Place half the mixture into a 20cm round Treats on Sunday, if you haven’t made quartered cake tin, greased and lined, and level the Chai an Easter Simnel Cake yet, you’re l 225g candied peel chopped surface. definitely missing out – and there’s l 2 lemons (grated rind only) Roll one third of the almond paste into no time like the present. a circle the size of the cake tin and Brady W l 2 level tsp mixed spice The name simnel probably comes from the place on top of the cake mixture. ancient Roman word simila, meaning fine flour. Filling and topping: Spoon the remaining cake mixture Simple, every day, simnel bread has been made on top and level the surface. l 450g almond paste in England since as far back as the 11th century. l Bake in a preheated fan oven at Bread regulations of the time suggest they were 2 tbsp apricot jam 120°C for 30 minutes or until a l boiled and then baked, but that’s definitely not what 1 egg beaten to glaze skewer comes out clean and the cake this recipe will suggest. is golden brown. Cool in the tin for 30 The Simnel Cake, a symbolic minutes, before removing the cake from Ingredients Easter cake, is decorated with the tin and placing it to cool on a wire rack. For the cake: eleven marzipan balls around the When the cake is cool brush with a little l cake to represent the 11 disciples. warmed jam. Roll out most of the remaining 225g soft margarine Though there were 12 disciples, Judas Iscariot is l almond paste to cover the top of the cake, 225g light brown sugar omitted as he betrayed Jesus. l reserving some to roll into 11 balls. Brush the 4 beaten eggs Preheat the oven to 120°C. Cream the margarine paste and balls with the beaten egg and arrange l 225g self-raising flour and sugar. Add the beaten eggs and mix. Add the almond paste balls around the top of the cake. l 225g sultanas the fruit, mixed spice, flour and lemon rind and Cover all but the top of the cake with tinfoil and combine. l 225g currants place in a hot oven for a few minutes to toast. The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 34 | Family & Lifestyle || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | Reviews ||35

Instilling peace in students with religion Brendan O’Regan higher diploma in NUI Galway and thought he let himself down and now works in Athlone Community his followers down. So, morally TVRadio School, a “large and wonderful” I couldn’t support a party where Personal Profile school, as she describes it, with one of the main core values was 1,300 students and more than disrespected.” 120 staff. Sarah spent nearly an entire Spin-free news is so hard to come by year in the political wilderness, as news ever mally sunny outlook was the Teaching presented free latest episode of The A Word, Sarah sees a great joy in teaching, researching the other Irish parties. PICK OF THE WEEK of spin? Maybe a brilliant drama series now even in the challenges that are One of them, the recently formed it never was but in its third season on BBC1. SUNDAY SEQUENCE presented. She believes that the Aontú, impressed her with their I think the problem is worse Centred around the family of BBC Radio Ulster, Sunday, May 31, 8.30am different personalities and the ups policies and their integrity, but now.W Topical religious and ethical matters with a Northern Ireland an autistic boy, it is warmly and downs makes her vocation all she took her time before joining. These thoughts were human, witty, heart-breaking flavour. the more enjoyable. prompted by the headlines and engaging. The ensem- “Students will challenge you MASS Tuesday morning of last Ruadhán Jones sometimes and you’ll come As a young girl, ble acting is excellent, with RTÉ1, Sunday, May 31, 11am ❛❛ week. I woke up to Morning standout performances from Multi-lingual Eurovision Mass for Pentecost from Charleroi up against many different Sarah and her family Ireland (RTÉ Radio 1) news Morven Christie and Lee aith has always been an personalities,” she says. “But I in Belgium, celebrated by Fr Didier Croonenberghs OP, with headlines telling me that the Ingoldsby as the mother and important part of her life, think if you encourage students, enjoyed attending English commentary by Michael Kelly. Covid restrictions could last father, with Max Vento con- explains Sarah Seoige, a if you try to understand from a Mass regularly for years. It’s a wonder I got vincing as Joe, the autistic THEY MIGHT BE SAINTS – FR PATRICK PEYTON teacher of religion and Irish student’s point of view, that’s what up at all. And this was barely son. EWTN, Wednesday, June 3, 5pm, Friday, June 5, 7am at Athlone Community School and an makes a teaching career so much and prayer was an and 10pm F more enjoyable. You really learn news – it was speculation Christopher Eccleston proactive member of political party Aontú. about what a health expert vides most of the light relief Michael O’Neill examines the lives of men and women Sarah considers herself very from each other and embrace important part of would say to a Dáil commit- as Joe’s grandfather with a of faith on the path to sainthood and the search for fortunate to have had “two of the most each other.” tee. heart of gold and a bull in canonisation miracles. wonderful parents any child could have Much of her time is spent their daily life” Do they ever consider the china shop approach to asked for”. teaching Irish since religion was “What they stand for are – she was barely out of quar- what effect these grim head- relationships. There’s a lit- As a young girl, Sarah and her family made an optional subject by things I would stand for myself. antine herself when she had lines have on people’s well- tle bad language, occasional enjoyed attending Mass regularly and the Longford and Westmeath to bring him to hospital and I didn’t rush into becoming a being? They could just as preachiness (though I doubt prayer was an important part of their Education and Training Board. But wasn’t allowed to go in with member. I wanted to do my easily led with the news that anyone would fault the mes- daily life. she particularly enjoys teaching him. religion, which has played such an research, check what they were the latest figures released sages about disability) and an He was sedated when she important role in her own life. about, make sure that they were showed the lowest number approach to relationships that saw him again and he couldn’t Sarah spent nearly “Religion is just not given the true to their word. Certainly, of deaths ‘with Covid-19’ (not Morven Christie stars in BBC TV’s The A Word. wouldn’t always be consistent communicate when on the ❛❛ airtime,” she says. “It’s categorised Aontú seem and are so far a party necessarily ‘from’ Covid-19) Pat Kenny Show (Newstalk) radar. It was to the effect that with the Catholic playbook, an entire year in the ventilator. Yet she talked into one little box, whereas when of integrity and honesty.” in months. But why ruin a the host regularly pushes the a mother with a Down Syn- though in the broadest sense to him, gave him messages political wilderness, I teach it, I would look at it as a catastrophising headline with pro-mask line and maybe drome baby was taking a legal I find it pro-life, sometimes While the lockdown has made from their sons and played a huge spectrum from personal facts that might inspire hope? he’s right, but I’d prefer to see challenge in the UK seeking optimistic but never retreat- researching the other it difficult to teach and work Gospel song, The Old Rugged development, dealing with stress Grrr… presenters teasing out and to overturn their law “allowing from the challenging for Aontú, Sarah believes the Cross, recorded specially by and anxiety, teaching little coping In general, I’m wary of exploring issues with a vari- ing disabled children to be aspects of being family. Irish parties. two passions: teaching and medicine. pandemic has led to an increase Iris de Ment. Asked whether Peace techniques. Then there’s the world media campaigning on Covid- ety of well-informed authori- aborted until birth”. The frank There was a mixture of The late John Prine. “I had a great interest in the In the end, teaching won out. in faith. as “a very happy family man”. John’s Faith helped at the “I think within any life, every single religions, the similarities and related issues – the news ties rather than pursuing the wording was noteworthy – uplift and sadness in a very whole process of aw Mass and person yearns for a peace within “I decided to go down the “I have many friends who are end, she said “I believe in his differences. I would embrace all cycle drives issues for a while bees in their own bonnets. no dehumanising language moving interview on last She said one of “the hidden their soul,” she says. “I think that teaching route because my heart beliefs” and that if he knew he what a Mass had to offer,” she religions, and in the past, it was surgeons and GPs,” she explains. then drops them and moves here. I’d say a lot of people weekend’s Sunday With gifts of grieving” was revis- peace can only ever be found when felt called to it,” she explains. was going to see his deceased says. “Sometimes people don’t absolutely fantastic.” “A lot of these people are turning on, regardless of resolution. aren’t aware of the cruelty in Miriam (RTÉ Radio 1). Mir- iting memories of their time a person realises there’s more to life “I wanted to be an influence on Banner parents and brother again, acknowledge its importance or to prayer to help them in their Some days it’s the care homes, In the midst of the flurry this law and maybe not even iam spoke with Fiona Whelan together. She only fully found than material things. In my opinion young people’s lives, and I liked “then that’s exactly what hap- what’s actually going on during Politics vocation of serving and helping next it’s the Leaving Cert last weekend about Dominic aware of its existence. Let’s Prine, Donegal-born wife out years into their marriage that peace is really found with God.” to think I would be a positive pened”. the steps of a Mass. I was in Another important aspect of her vulnerable people who are being abandoned, next it’s Cummings (was the attention see how much coverage the of singer-songwriter John that he had “an absolute It is this understanding of teacher. I would always encourage Fifth Class or something and I upbringing was politics, which suffering as a result of Covid-19. pressure to get the primary warranted on Irish media?), I case gets over here while it Prine who died of Covid-19 and firm belief in God and religion that Sarah seeks to instil in students, no matter what, to try i [email protected], remember sitting there really she describes as being “embedded I also see colleagues when at schools back, last weekend noticed an interesting item on makes its way through the in April. Miriam handled the Heaven”. For him, God was her students. their best. I wanted to be a role @boreganmedia taken aback by the beauty of in my veins”. Sarah’s family were staff meetings. Even the younger it was the one-metre vs two- the Sunday night’s Sky News courts. interview empathically, ask- love – it was that simple. “To really embrace that student model for them, to really help strong Fianna Fáil supporters and the Mass and the ritual, and the students have tuned in to Mass metre debate, and the masks tickertape banner – under the Not unrelated, but much ing about “your beautiful Her description of the last in front of you, to listen to them, young people in achieving their up to a year ago so was she. Eucharist. I was fascinated by it.” debate rumbles on – on the newsreader if not under the more uplifting for my nor- John”. Fiona described John days were sad and touching to see their talents and help them dreams.” “I would have been a huge online and started to pray at night. This fascination led Sarah to pursue their strengths. These are the After secondary school, she Fianna Fáil supporter all my life,” “Without a doubt, I genuinely study religion in secondary school, core values of teaching,” Sarah says. went on to study teaching in she says. “But I was not happy think that the amount of people and eventually college, feeling the When she was in secondary NUI Maynooth and St Patrick’s when Mícheál Martin, who I really turning back to religion is call to teach it to young people. school, Sarah was torn between her Pontifical University. She did her looked up to, signed for abortion. I wonderful,” she says. Music Pat O’Kelly Sweet Still time to make your Easter Simnel Cake Eagerly-awaited return of Hallé Orchestra foiled by virus ith Eastertide coming to an end l 225g glace cherries washed and Place half the mixture into a 20cm round Had everything gone accord- prestigious occasion. Dvorák and Wagner. Among eminent conduc- remained at the Hallé’s helm Treats on Sunday, if you haven’t made quartered cake tin, greased and lined, and level the ing to plan, Manchester’s Pleased with how things Hallé brought his orchestra tors after Hallé came another for 27 years. Chai an Easter Simnel Cake yet, you’re l 225g candied peel chopped surface. Hallé Orchestra would be went, Hallé continued his to Dublin initially on October German – Hans Richter – who During his tenure he took definitely missing out – and there’s l 2 lemons (grated rind only) Roll one third of the almond paste into in the National Concert Hall concerts until the follow- 26, 1878, giving two concerts held the reins from 1899 for the orchestra to Ireland on no time like the present. a circle the size of the cake tin and next Tuesday (June 2) under ing October after which he – afternoon and evening – at 12 years. Revered in Vienna Brady W l 2 level tsp mixed spice several occasions and formed The name simnel probably comes from the place on top of the cake mixture. Sir Mark Elder, its principal organised a ‘series’ at his own the Great Exhibition Pal- and having a penchant for a close liaison with Our Lady’s Spoon the remaining cake mixture ancient Roman word simila, meaning fine flour. Filling and topping: conductor since 2000. The expense. ace, now the NCH. The first Wagner, Richter conducted Choral Society. Barbirolli con- Simple, every day, simnel bread has been made on top and level the surface. concert promised an inter- As these proved popular, included Beethoven’s Pastoral l 450g almond paste the first complete Ring cycle ducted the first performance in England since as far back as the 11th century. Bake in a preheated fan oven at esting Franco-Russian mix the conductor put the orches- Symphony and his Emperor in Bayreuth in 1876. l 2 tbsp apricot jam here of Mahler’s Resurrection Bread regulations of the time suggest they were 120°C for 30 minutes or until a with Ravel surrounded by tra on a more professional Concerto with Hallé as soloist. In England, he became a l Symphony. For the substan- boiled and then baked, but that’s definitely not what 1 egg beaten to glaze skewer comes out clean and the cake Rachmaninov and Stravinsky. footing. Financial difficul- whole-hearted admirer of tial piece, he combined the this recipe will suggest. is golden brown. Cool in the tin for 30 I was looking forward to it, as ties soon presented them- Elgar, directing the premières Praise Hallé and RÉSO together with The Simnel Cake, a symbolic minutes, before removing the cake from the Hallé’s visits, despite the selves but Hallé’s pertinacity The second concert had of his Enigma Variations and OLCS in the Theatre Royal in Ingredients Easter cake, is decorated with the tin and placing it to cool on a wire rack. orchestra’s proximity to us, remained unshaken and, with Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony The Dream of Gerontius. Poor Irish Times For the cake: eleven marzipan balls around the When the cake is cool brush with a little are relatively infrequent. donations, kept the orches- and movements from Vieux- eyesight meant him invaria- June 1959. The cake to represent the 11 disciples. called it “a wonderful and l 225g soft margarine warmed jam. Roll out most of the remaining The Hallé’s first concert in tra together. He remained in temps’ E major Violin Con- bly conducting from memory Though there were 12 disciples, Judas Iscariot is soul-searching event”. I was l almond paste to cover the top of the cake, Manchester’s Free Trade Hall charge until his death in 1895. certo and Spohr’s Concerto but, like Hallé, he ensured the 225g light brown sugar omitted as he betrayed Jesus. reserving some to roll into 11 balls. Brush the was on January 30, 1858. During his time in Man- Dramatico, played by Hallé’s orchestra’s playing achieved a there. l Sir Mark Elder. 4 beaten eggs Preheat the oven to 120°C. Cream the margarine paste and balls with the beaten egg and arrange There had been a small chester, Hallé raised the wife, Wilhelmine Norman- particularly high standard. Over the years a number of l 225g self-raising flour and sugar. Add the beaten eggs and mix. Add the almond paste balls around the top of the cake. orchestra there beforehand However, with the opening standard of the orchestra’s Neruda. The performances In 1943 London-born John Irish musicians has graced the l 225g sultanas the fruit, mixed spice, flour and lemon rind and Cover all but the top of the cake with tinfoil and that played for what was of the ‘Exhibition of the Art playing and expanded its drew unstinted praise but Barbirolli, then with the New Hallé’s ranks but none more combine. l 225g currants place in a hot oven for a few minutes to toast. called, Gentlemen’s Concerts, Treasures of Great Britain’ in repertoire considerably intro- audiences were small due, it York Philharmonic, was asked distinguished than the doy- directed by German-born Sir May 1857 it was decided to ducing, what was then, new was said, to the lack of vocal to take charge in Manchester. enne of our artists – harpist Charles Hallé. expand the ensemble for the music by Berlioz, Brahms, items on the programmes. Accepting the invitation, he Síle Larchet-Cuthbert. 36 | Reviews || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020

BookReviews Peter Costello High thoughts in the middle ages Medieval Philosophy (A on my desk I was puzzled by History of Philosophy Catherine of the cover which showed, not without any Gaps) Siena. a philosopher in his study, by Peter Adamson or a theologian among his (Oxford University Press, students, but a siege engine £25) from about 1321. This seemed Peter Costello to suggests, to my mind, the idea that the middle ages was hen I discussed particularly violent (which is with a friend not so, the last few centuries my intention of with their industrialised war- reviewing this fare and their distanced con- tomeW – and tome it is, run- flicts, being the most violent ning to more than 600 closely ever known). printed pages – he wondered: Actually the jacket shows “Are readers of The Irish Cath- “Christian soldiers march- olic interested in medieval ing as to war”, setting out to philosophy?” capture the stronghold of the Ignoring this counsel of imps and demons of igno- despair, I believe that a sig- rance and depravity. nificant number of our read- But the cover was duly ers are interested in medieval explained too by the fact that philosophy, and I feel they a long chapter is devoted to would certainly like to know the development of the medi- more about it, its variety and eval concept of “a just war”, its ramifications. perhaps the most dangerous Many of us were brought doctrine to which the name of up exposed to the view that Christianity is attached, and Aquinas was the begin- which has been the promoter ning and end of philosophy, of war, violence and death in for Catholics at least. But I ways not compatible with the believe, too, that many read- Gospels. ers are interested in philoso- From this brief survey of phy in general, hence the the contents, I hope I have huge sales of writers such as been able to suggest that this Alain de Botton, Roger Scrut- book (and the others in the ton and others. series), which are a delight to There is a great deal of read, will be of great interest confusion about the Middle fourth volume in a series he of greatest value to increas- a huge range of figures, from of artists and poets, such as to general readers, aside from Ages. Many people have very is writing called “a history ing knowledge of a much our old Celtic friend Eriugena Dante, Langland and Chaucer, students of culture. odd notions about both the of philosophy without any distorted topic, at least in the and predestination – a more for in their works we can see In any case, the temper of period and its thought and gaps”, which aims to pre- Western media. So this series than lively topic still today the application and the illus- Christianity today is largely what they might mean to us sent a complete history of has a value beyond mere aca- in some Christian quarters – tration of philosophy as it was towards the more personal today. This book may well be philosophy more thoroughly demic usefulness. down to Wycliffe, late scho- lived in life here on earth, and experience of the divine, an answer to their difficulties. and more enjoyably than ever lasticism, Lull, and Petrarch. in the afterlife, as conceived towards ‘mindfulness’, psy- before. His short, lively chap- Special But the coverage is broader by the middle ages. chology and spirituality; Series ters, drawn from the materi- ❛❛ than that. Special attention The idea popular among toward devotion untram- The author Peter Adamson, als on his popular podcast attention is given to is given – and rightly so – to traditionalists of the unified melled by any strictures of who studied at Notre Dame on the history of philosophy, female philosophers” female philosophers, such culture of the medieval mind philosophy. Perhaps a small and King’s College in London, are intended to be accessible, as Catherine of Siena. Such – such as Chesterton and Bel- dose of medieval thought is Professor of late Ancient humorous and detailed. Let me say at once on the would certainly not have fea- loc write about – is shown might well be a good thing for and Arabic Philosophy at the Of the volumes already evidence of this volume, he tured in earlier surveys of this to be a simplification of the some. A small dose of medi- Ludwig-Maximilians-Uni- published, that on Islamic succeeds brilliantly. Over kind. But beyond that Adam- actuality. eval thought might well be a versität in Munich. It is the philosophy would seem to be some 78 sections he covers son gives space to the ideas When this book arrived good thing for some. A warning for the many religious know it alls The Sin of Certainty: Why God the quality and nature of that faith. Instead, Enns says, Christians we remember, that underlies the desires our trust more than Writing, as he does from a Christian should abandon this wish ‘to be doctrine of “natural revelation”, that our ‘correct’ beliefs viewpoint that places a heavier right’. They should instead do exactly reason alone can bring people to an by Peter Enns burden on the Bible, indeed on the what so many Christians have not idea of God, and therefore that every (Hodder & Stoughton, £14.99) exact text of the Bible, to provide a been doing, whoever they are. They faith and belief can have within it a guide to being ‘correct’, he admits should repose themselves firmly in partial apprehension of the divine. Peter Costello there are times – such as now – their trust of God. This book will, I think, be both when many may despair of God. Author Enns, who is a professor of Testing times, he writes, rather revealing and sustaining for many Biblical Studies at a Pennsylvanian than undermining belief, can people. But remember when you University, is a writer in the become a way of “encouraging us to Christians should say with the Psalmist, “my soul is evangelical tradition. This book, ❛❛ face those dangerous questions that repose themselves firmly full of troubles”, that certainty can though issued before the present beset both life and belief – in order be a type of false knowledge, and plague descended on us, has in their trust of God” for us to move from needing to be that “as for knowledge, it will come interesting things to say that seem People often see their faith as right to trusting God instead”. We to an end. For we know only in part.” very relevant to this critical period founded on being ‘correct’, adhering should walk in the dark and rely on in which many are finding their faith to the exact text for some; in the the Lord. (I Corinthians 13:8-9) challenged. Catholic and Orthodox tradition, in He seems, however, also to This is a book which has lessons Basically he is saying that in these doing the right thing liturgically. We suggest that this faith is enough. And that are for later times, for all times times what many people, especially have all met these people, as indeed yet humanity has (in the essential perhaps, rather than this moment of religious people need, is not less Jesus did in so many encounters in belief of Christians) been gifted with dread, and is well worth reading. All Peter Enns. faith but more. It all depends on the Gospels. the power of reasoning. It is this, of us will learn something from it. 36 | Reviews || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020 | Reviews ||37

Readers should note that The Irish Catholic circulates throughout the island of Ireland and the book prices listed are the retail price recommended by the Irish or British publishers, in either euros or BookReviews Peter Costello sterling, as a general indication of what purchasers may expect to pay. High thoughts in the middle ages Lockdown literature • Chapter 2 Medieval Philosophy (A on my desk I was puzzled by Belloc’s path History of Philosophy Catherine of the cover which showed, not without any Gaps) Siena. a philosopher in his study, by Peter Adamson or a theologian among his to Rome (Oxford University Press, students, but a siege engine £25) from about 1321. This seemed Peter Costello to suggests, to my mind, the idea that the middle ages was hen I discussed particularly violent (which is with a friend not so, the last few centuries my intention of with their industrialised war- reviewing this fare and their distanced con- tomeW – and tome it is, run- flicts, being the most violent ning to more than 600 closely ever known). printed pages – he wondered: Actually the jacket shows “Are readers of The Irish Cath- “Christian soldiers march- olic interested in medieval ing as to war”, setting out to philosophy?” capture the stronghold of the Ignoring this counsel of imps and demons of igno- despair, I believe that a sig- rance and depravity. nificant number of our read- But the cover was duly ers are interested in medieval explained too by the fact that philosophy, and I feel they a long chapter is devoted to would certainly like to know the development of the medi- more about it, its variety and eval concept of “a just war”, its ramifications. perhaps the most dangerous Many of us were brought doctrine to which the name of up exposed to the view that Christianity is attached, and Aquinas was the begin- which has been the promoter ning and end of philosophy, of war, violence and death in Irish women who served in Over the coming weeks some of our literary for Catholics at least. But I ways not compatible with the collaborators will give suggestions for ‘lock- believe, too, that many read- Gospels. down reading’, books of all kinds to amuse and ers are interested in philoso- From this brief survey of raise our spirits. This week: Anthony Redmond phy in general, hence the the contents, I hope I have a time of European crisis on The Path to Rome (1902) by Hilaire Belloc. huge sales of writers such as been able to suggest that this Irish Servicewomen in soldiers. Then it concerned drawn from Ireland. They tioned. There the war came Alain de Botton, Roger Scrut- book (and the others in the the Great War: From the various duties members came from the four prov- perilously close to them in It must be 40 years since I first read The Path to Rome and ton and others. series), which are a delight to Western Front to of the force would be under- inces and from a wide range November 1918. I have never forgotten it. In it Belloc describes in vivid detail There is a great deal of read, will be of great interest roaring twenties taking. This included office of backgrounds: Catholic, The author provides pro- his pilgrimage on foot from Toulouse to Rome. confusion about the Middle fourth volume in a series he of greatest value to increas- a huge range of figures, from of artists and poets, such as to general readers, aside from by Barbara Walsh and secretariat work, tel- Protestant; middleclass, files of a number of the This great book, published in 1902, is written in the most Ages. Many people have very is writing called “a history ing knowledge of a much our old Celtic friend Eriugena Dante, Langland and Chaucer, students of culture. (Pen & Sword Books, €25) egraph and telephone com- working-class; urban, rural. Irish members. Among leisurely style and we find ourselves treated to dissertations on almost every subject under the sun – from mulled wine odd notions about both the of philosophy without any distorted topic, at least in the and predestination – a more for in their works we can see In any case, the temper of munications, driving all kinds The members who made the them is Martha Hanna from J. Anthony Gaughan and the ways of the middle-class to Gothic architecture and period and its thought and gaps”, which aims to pre- Western media. So this series than lively topic still today the application and the illus- Christianity today is largely of military vehicles, ancillary most vital contribution to the Poyntzpass in Co. Armagh. the Catholic Church. what they might mean to us sent a complete history of has a value beyond mere aca- in some Christian quarters – tration of philosophy as it was towards the more personal Books dealing with service in service in canteens and first- war effort were those who She transferred to the WAAC Belloc has graphic powers of description and an today. This book may well be philosophy more thoroughly down to Wycliffe, late scho- lived in life here on earth, and experience of the divine, time of crisis or disaster are aid stations, acting as super- were seconded to the Royal from the GPO in Dublin and demic usefulness. obsession with minute details. The people he encounters on an answer to their difficulties. and more enjoyably than ever lasticism, Lull, and Petrarch. in the afterlife, as conceived towards ‘mindfulness’, psy- always an interesting read, as Engineers and were attached served in a Signal Unit. After his journey are captured with compassion and affection. In before. His short, lively chap- But the coverage is broader by the middle ages. chology and spirituality; so often they reveal aspects to Signal Units, where they she was demobbed she met Special many ways, his Path to Rome is allegorical and symbolic. Series ters, drawn from the materi- than that. Special attention The idea popular among toward devotion untram- of the best parts of people’s were key-players in ensuring and married George Fisher, ❛❛ Thus, for example, when he speaks of the “sharp The author Peter Adamson, als on his popular podcast attention is given to is given – and rightly so – to traditionalists of the unified melled by any strictures of characters. This is especially that the Western Front’s cru- also a veteran of the war, and steadfastness” of the Alps which “compelled my adoration”, who studied at Notre Dame on the history of philosophy, female philosophers” female philosophers, such culture of the medieval mind philosophy. Perhaps a small true in war, and the service cial Lines of Communication they settled in Australia. and King’s College in London, are intended to be accessible, as Catherine of Siena. Such – such as Chesterton and Bel- dose of medieval thought of women from Ireland in the remained viable. he is thinking of things immaterial. is Professor of late Ancient humorous and detailed. Let me say at once on the would certainly not have fea- loc write about – is shown might well be a good thing for Great War is a case in point. Following the Great War, “From the height of Weissenstein,” he writes, “I saw, as and Arabic Philosophy at the Of the volumes already evidence of this volume, he tured in earlier surveys of this to be a simplification of the some. A small dose of medi- The Women’s Auxiliary the Irish members continued They became it were, my religion. I mean, humility, the fear of death, the ❛❛ terror of height and of distance, the Glory of God, the infinite Ludwig-Maximilians-Uni- published, that on Islamic succeeds brilliantly. Over kind. But beyond that Adam- actuality. eval thought might well be a Army Corps was established to have strong links with the aware that the IRA potentiality of reception whence springs that divine thirst of versität in Munich. It is the philosophy would seem to be some 78 sections he covers son gives space to the ideas When this book arrived good thing for some. in February 1917. Following WAAC. They participated in had infiltrated the the carnage on the Western the traditional ceremonies at the soul.” Front the British government Islandbridge in Dublin com- poster services” His passionate love for the Catholic Church forms the was finding it exceedingly dif- memorating the fallen in the leitmotif of the book, and he never misses an opportunity to Others who returned home ficult to replenish the ranks two World Wars. Apart from call attention to its cultural legacy and profound influence on A warning for the many religious know it alls to their posts in the GPO had of the army. Thus one of the that, however, they kept a European civilization. For Belloc, Rome is the pivot of the less reason to be happy. They the quality and nature of that faith. Instead, Enns says, Christians we remember, that underlies the main reasons for the estab- low-profile. The brutality and universe, the emblem of sanity itself. The Sin of Certainty: Why God were appalled at the conflict Writing, as he does from a Christian should abandon this wish ‘to be doctrine of “natural revelation”, that lishment of the WAAC was misconduct of elements in desires our trust more than between the crown forces viewpoint that places a heavier right’. They should instead do exactly to release soldiers from non- the crown forces during the Mass our ‘correct’ beliefs reason alone can bring people to an and those of Sinn Féin. There burden on the Bible, indeed on the what so many Christians have not combat duties and have them War of Independence left in He mentions the benefits of daily Mass and the joy he by Peter Enns idea of God, and therefore that every was an utterly changed socio- (Hodder & Stoughton, £14.99) exact text of the Bible, to provide a been doing, whoever they are. They available for service on the visory administrators and ‘Southern Ireland’ a legacy of derives from it. “That for half an hour just at the beginning faith and belief can have within it a political environment. Worst guide to being ‘correct’, he admits should repose themselves firmly in front line. involvement in intelligence- profound antipathy to eve- of the day you are silent and recollected, and have to put off partial apprehension of the divine. of all, they became aware that Peter Costello there are times – such as now – their trust of God. gathering. rything associated with the cares, interests and passions in the repetition of a familiar This book will, I think, be both the IRA had infiltrated the action. That the surroundings incline you to good and Author Enns, who is a professor of when many may despair of God. Testing times, he writes, rather Opportunity Some 60,000 women British army. revealing and sustaining for many postal services and telephone reasonable thoughts, and for the moment deaden the rasp Biblical Studies at a Pennsylvanian than undermining belief, can Thousands of women enthu- drawn from all parts of the Barbara Walsh describes people. But remember when you exchanges and that they were and jar of that busy wickedness which both working in one’s University, is a writer in the Christians should become a way of “encouraging us to siastically joined the new United Kingdom rallied to in great detail the challenges say with the Psalmist, “my soul is powerless to affect that situ- self and received from others is the true source of all human evangelical tradition. This book, ❛❛ face those dangerous questions that force. Many had relatives – the colours. Popularly known and difficulties faced by the repose themselves firmly full of troubles”, that certainty can as the skirted soldiers, their ation. misery.” though issued before the present beset both life and belief – in order husbands, brothers, cousins WAAC and its members at be a type of false knowledge, and contribution to the war effort This important and semi- When he eventually reaches his destination he refuses to plague descended on us, has in their trust of God” for us to move from needing to be – on active service or on the home and abroad. Some of that “as for knowledge, it will come was deeply appreciated by them in attempting to secure nal study is to be warmly tell us anything about Rome. He says: “I am on the threshold interesting things to say that seem People often see their faith as right to trusting God instead”. We casualty lists and they wel- to an end. For we know only in part.” the military authorities. payments due to them even welcomed. It will encourage of a great experience; I would rather be alone. Good-bye my very relevant to this critical period founded on being ‘correct’, adhering should walk in the dark and rely on comed the opportunity to join While they were not involved found the War Office most people to learn about their readers; good-bye the world.” in which many are finding their faith to the exact text for some; in the the Lord. (I Corinthians 13:8-9) in ending the war. in combat, some of them unhelpful. relatives who served in the Belloc was part of an interesting group of Catholic challenged. Catholic and Orthodox tradition, in He seems, however, also to This is a book which has lessons Others grasped the chance witnessed horrific incidents. Walsh also records in con- WAAC. And it will light the apologists whose work is not read nowadays as much as it Basically he is saying that in these doing the right thing liturgically. We suggest that this faith is enough. And that are for later times, for all times of having a secure and well- Many of them won awards siderable detail the service of pathway into further histori- should be. I am thinking of great debaters and defenders of times what many people, especially have all met these people, as indeed yet humanity has (in the essential perhaps, rather than this moment of paid job. and decorations. the WAAC at the Army HQ in cal and sociological analyses the Church like G.K Chesterton, Arnold Lunn, Ronald Knox, religious people need, is not less Jesus did in so many encounters in belief of Christians) been gifted with dread, and is well worth reading. All The early phase of the The author mainly con- Rouen, where, it seems, many of different aspects of this and Christopher Dawson. I think we are missing this level of Peter Enns. faith but more. It all depends on the Gospels. the power of reasoning. It is this, of us will learn something from it. training of the new force was the same as that for regular cerns herself with those of the Irish girls were sta- neglected topic. debate nowadays. 38 | Classifieds || The Irish Catholic, May 28, 2020

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Notebook Fr Bernard Cotter Online Mass has been an eye-opening experience TODAY I COMPLETED my 13th l as does all music played. It is Facebook Mass (11 Sundays, Holy Ten people at a funeral Mass revealing but also educational. People power! Thursday and St Patrick’s Day). As seems very restrictive, and We have always taught that there l Last Sunday, May 24, was has often been said, it’s a whole indeed it would be a very small are many forms of the presence of World Communications Day, a new world, and it’s not all bad church that would seem full when Christ, in the Eucharist, of course, most relevant celebration for just 10 familiy members gathered either. Online Masses show how but also in the Word. Facebook these pandemic days. Never there, around the coffin of one amazingly adaptable we Catholics reveals a drift to the latter that is have parish communication they loved. But there is another can be. new and challenging. ministries had more relevance. side to it. Facebook supplies an amazing Foraging these statistics Indeed, the parish without Some families speak array of statistics. For each Mass involves an excrutiating task for newsletter, website, webcam positively of the new-style funeral celebrated live and then posted, the presider: watching oneself say and/or Facebook page is at a Mass, calling it ‘intimate’ and Mass. This is not for the faint- severe loss, its relevance ebbing Facebook tells me how many ‘personal’. Some feel no longer people have been reached and hearted: all those words stumbled away. ‘on show’, and seem better Some parishes provide no how many have viewed the Mass. able to relax and enter into it. I over, the stutters, silent gaps the It cannot tell me how many have fumbling with pages...those who Sunday Mass online, while the would imagine that in the future priest celebrates on his own actually prayed the whole Mass. Its this will be option some may attended my Masses were well statistics only refer to the number used to it, but to have it shown to in his presbytery. In parishes embrace. Perhaps this provision like that, where the parish with Facebook profiles who of options will be a positive relic me like this is eye-opening. interact: in many houses, a whole There are, of course, two things leadership is unable to provide of pandemic days. for the people, surely it is up family will sit down to pray, but missing from the Facebook Mass: to parishioners to make it usually using only one Facebook one spiritual, one temporal. Holy them better. The total number of figures. The readings seem to happen. Parishioners should profile. Communion is dreadfully missed, viewers is up to three times the engage people better, the Gospel, not be deprived of viewing the And there are some who access of course — but so is the collection. number that used to attend the even the homily and bidding Mass when they most need its the Mass through an external I have noticed that while parish three Masses said in the parish prayers. inspiration. browser or via Google, leaving no each weekend, up to March 8. You pastoral groups went underground trace of their engagement behind. can see why I will be in no rush There are two early on, the Finance Committee back to church services. ❛❛ has never disappeared. A ‘confer- The Irish Catholic Statistics Facebook gives another things missing from the ence-call’ meeting was organised 2 2 Taking all the statistics available interesting insight also: it reveals Facebook Mass: one and means of bringing in the and arriving at an educated guess, the parts of the Mass where spiritual, one temporal” money devised. Even the priest I would think that between 1,000 engagement is at the most intense. was considered, with members and 1,200 people view the Mass in You might think Catholics would I suppose it is where that acknowledging that the lack of the my kitchen each weekend, either gravitate toward the second half of the Mysteries of Faith interact Easter collection was a big blow. I viewing it live or watching the the Mass, but no: often the Liturgy with lived reality. Notices and don’t think they will let me starve: post at a time of day that suits of the Eucharist attracts the lowest introductory words engage also, but watch this space... 9 7 7 1 3 9 3 6 8 3 0 5 7

HELP TRAIN A YOUNG MAN FOR THE MISSIONARY MISSIONARIES PRIESTHOOD NEED YOUR MASS YOUR EASTERTIDE GIFT TO OUR RISEN SAVIOUR OFFERINGS Your Mass offerings help to Each year THE LITTLE WAY ASSOCIATION receives numerous requests from Religious Orders in mission provide the missionary lands for help to train their seminarians. priest’s maintenance and assist him to extend the The Little Way It costs approximately €100 a month Kingdom of God upon earth. Association (€1,200 a year) to feed, clothe and educate We like to send a a student for the priesthood missionary a minimum of €6 or more for each Mass. Crossed POs and cheques should be sent and made payable to: The great majority of young men who come forward to offer their lives to God, and His people, come from THE LITTLE WAY ASSOCIATION poor families. Their parents do not have the means to WELLS NEEDED Sacred Heart House, 119 Cedars Rd, Clapham Common, London SW4 0PR support them ﬁnancially. The cost of educating and (Registered Charity No. 235703) Tel 0044 20 76 22 0466 maintaining seminarians is often a heavy burden on Missionaries constantly www.littlewayassociation.com the Religious Orders. It costs approximately €100 a appeal to The Little Way for I enclose €...... to be allocated to: month (€1,200 a year) to feed, clothe and educate a funds to sink wells in order to To donate online go to student for the priesthood. We appeal wholeheartedly, provide clean water, the lack €...... TRAINING FOR THE PRIESTHOOD tinyurl.com/lwadonations €...... NEEDS OF MISSIONARIES this Easter/Pentecost, to all readers to help train and of which causes much illness €...... MASS OFFERINGS support a candidate for the priesthood. and many medical needs. On (Please state number ______) DONATIONS FOR THE average, women in Africa and €...... WELLS AND CLEAN WATER MISSIONS ARE SENT WITHOUT DEDUCTION FOR ANY Asia walk around three hours €...... LITTLE WAY ADMIN EXPENSES Any donation you can send will be most EXPENSES. gratefully received, and will be sent every day to fetch water, Please tick if you would like an acknowledgement often in scorching heat. without deduction, to help to train a Name (Rev. Mr. Mrs. Miss) (Block letters please) young man for the priesthood. Can you help provide a well? Address EVERY EURO YOU SEND WILL BE VERY Your kind gift will be forwarded GRATEFULLY RECEIVED AND FORWARDED intact and gratefully received. IC/05/28 WITHOUT DEDUCTION.