Recently thousands of people walked the annual Darkness into Light memorial. It is a magnificent moment of solidarity emphasizing together we are stronger. Faith and spirituality enhance our well-being and mental health it gives us a wider lens, a bigger picture and anoints us with an inner confidence that “All will be Well.” It’s a rare occasion to visit a The post ‘Bring flowers of the Rarest’  appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

As we begin the month of May, we enter into a very sacred season, where nature rejoices in light and warmth. For ancient people this time of year was an occasion to hope and celebrate.  Bealtaine is the traditional Celtic festival marking the beginning of summer, typically observed on May 1. In ancient Celtic/Gaelic culture in The post May… a time to celebrate the ordinary appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

It is rare to visit the local parish church, here in Abbeyleix, without noticing candles lighting in front of Saint Joseph’s shrine. These days lots of candles are offered in prayer for students both in third and second level, facing exams over the coming weeks. Saint Joseph holds an iconic role in the life of The post St. Joseph Silence and Strength appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

Pope Leo has almost reached the first year of his papacy. I suggest this has been a remarkable year, in his witness for Jesus Christ and in his gentle yet fearless concern for the people of God throughout the world. Leo is very much his own man, fuelled with a deep spirituality and keen intellect. The post Pope Leo/ President Trump appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

Going to bed on April 7th, for many, brought with it tension and worry as the threat of global war made us all feel very vulnerable. Thankfully time has been given to prioritize necessary negotiation and please God reconciliation. In the midst of all this bad news, a good news story, this Easter time, was The post Man on the Moon! appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.

Easter 2026 finds itself in the context of a troubling war in the Middle East. The sacred and holy city of Jerusalem has felt the consequences. Christians prohibited from public worship and a palpable sense of tension and unease throughout this war-torn region. Pope Leo, in his Easter message, reminds Christians that we are all The post Easter 2026 A Time of Grace….. appeared first on Portlaoise Parish.