In all our communities, often silently and heroically, are people who voluntarily care for a vulnerable loved one. For me personally, those who care for a vulnerable loved one are truly inspirational. In the context of a vibrant rich economy, most carers receive abysmal remuneration regarding the contribution they make to enhance a loved The post Those who care for the vulnerable appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

It is utterly distressing to watch news reports of the war in Gaza and the West Bank. Like so many others, the feelings of outrage coupled with powerlessness and sometimes despair are overwhelming as I watch footage of emaciated, starving children with distended stomachs and bones protruding. They are being held by their despairing mothers The post Pray for Palestine appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

Pope Leo’s, first 100 days in the Petrine Office recently took place. His ministry is fuelled with deep discernment and prayer. Two qualities stand out: calmness and confidence. The calmness seems to come from his overwhelming belief that most problems are less intractable the more people can really listen to one another. (It’s a conviction The post Slowing Down appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

This week marks the beginning of October. I really love the colours associated with October, nature as it bids farewell to foliage and fruits produces a farewell of magnificence and beauty. It is very refreshing to Get out in the open air and spend time breathing the fresh October air. Most of us lived rushed The post Slowing Down appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

Recently, Pope Leo XIV declared Pier Giorgio Frassati, a young Italian from the 20th century who died at the age of 24, and Carlo Acutis, an Italian teenager from the 21st century, saints of the Catholic Church. It is good to become acquainted with perhaps the less known new saint! Pier Giorgio Michelangelo Frassati was The post St. Pier Giorgio Michelangelo Frassati appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

This year marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of Daniel O’Connell, the “Great Liberator”. Daniel O’Connell (1775–1847) changed the face of Irish history. A brilliant orator, political organiser and advocate for non-violent reform, O’Connell led the campaign for Catholic Emancipation and founded the Repeal Association to challenge the Act of Union. He was born The post Daniel O’Connell, the Great Liberator. appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.