As we begin the early pathway of a new year, wisdom suggests walking easy, taking each step at a time. 2026, like every new year, brings an invitation to begin again. The biggest challenge in life is to live in the present moment, to breathe in the here and now, to be grounded in the The post 2026 A Time to Slow Down appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

Christmas 2025 concludes for Christian, a jubilee year of hope. I pray, that this Christmas, will be filled with Health of Body and Peace of Mind for all of you and your loved ones. In the darkness of winter, the birth of Christ, awakens a new dawn that promises much brighter days ahead. Christmas brings The post A Christmas a time to see more clearly appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

These days we find ourselves plunged into the depths of winter darkness. Nature seems to have fallen asleep and yet in its raw and empty silence, creation continues to inspire hope and contemplation. The tiny and very beautiful Robin Red Breast is synonymous with the Christmas story. Many people believe when Robins are near, so The post Robin Red Breast – A Christmas Bird appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

Pope Leo XIV visited the tomb of Saint Charbel Makhlouf at the Monastery of Saint Maron in Annaya, Lebanon, on December 1, 2025, as part of his first apostolic journey abroad. During his visit, he prayed at the tomb, entrusted Lebanon to Saint Charbel’s intercession, and presented a votive lamp to honour the saint. He The post Saint Charbel Makhlouf – An Iconic Saint appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

There is a story of six people who froze to death around a campfire on a bitterly cold night. Each had a log of wood they might have contributed to the fire, but for reasons satisfactory to themselves, each person refused to give what they had. A woman would not give because she said she The post In an Instant Culture Waiting is very Challenging appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

The Department of Education and Youth has launched a survey to assess demand for different types of primary schools. Its aim is to expand parental choice in education. Parents, principals and school staff, along with Boards of Management, have been asked to participate in the survey. It can be accessed and completed online.  The Department The post An Important Survey from Department of Education appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.