The number of priests and members of religious orders in Ireland has dropped by 70% since 1970. In the past three years more than 25% of all priests in Ireland have died.  The average age of priests has risen substantially in that time; it is now well above 70. Add to that, problems of health The post Hope for the Irish Church appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

As we begin the month of October, I pray that we will all be nourished with great hope and peace. I found the recent visit by Pope Leo to France extremely inspiring. France one of the world’s most secular countries surprisingly gave Pope Leo a huge welcome. At times the pontiff visibly moved with emotion The post October and the Rosary appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

This week we begin the month of October. Beginning on Thursday with the feast of St. Thérèse of Lisieux (1873–1897), known as the “Little Flower” or Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face, this iconic saint lived a short, outwardly ordinary life that has inspired millions through her “Little Way” of spiritual childhood—finding The post Doing The Little Things Well appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

 This month, September marks the 25th anniversary, of the brutal terrorist attack, on the twin tower buildings, New York, that changed lives forever. While time has moved quickly, the loss and devastation as a consequence to this this disaster, remains present in the memories of billions. The first to be registered dead was an Irish The post American Pietà……. Father Mychal (Michael) Judge, OFM appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

St. Francis of Assisi (Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone) died on the evening of October 3, 1226 (around age 44), at the Porziuncola near Assisi; his feast day is October 4th. This year marks the 800th anniversary of his death. The year is being marked by a special Franciscan Jubilee. It celebrates a year of The post St. Francis of Assisi 800th anniversary appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

Life’s greatest classroom isn’t a lecture hall—it’s the messy, beautiful journey of living itself. Every joy, every heartbreak, every quiet moment of doubt carries a lesson if we’re willing to listen. God often teaches us through the unexpected—through failures that humble us, relationships that stretch us, and seasons of waiting that build our trust. Think The post Back to School appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.