Year: 2017

Brendan Hoban, writing in the Western People, comments on the factors that may influence the outcome of the proposed referendum on the eight amendment to the constitution.
“In a strange way the vote may break down not in terms of how convincing the arguments are one way or the other but how the debate is conducted by the different protagonists.”

Pope Francis gives local bishops more responsibility for Mass translations.
“In order that the renewal of the whole liturgical life might continue, it seemed opportune that some principles handed on since the time of the [Second Vatican] Council should be more clearly reaffirmed and put into practice.”

Seamus Ahearne reflects on current happenings and events and is inspired by them and the ocean’s currents.
“… the core of the Church message is to draw out the goodness and beauty of every person.  We have to bring out the best in each other. We have to join as a collective and come ashore hand in hand – fully believing in this Communion. The false divisions of the past have to be cast aside. We need to be fearless in making big and new decisions.  Francis is leading the way. Throw caution to the wind! How dare we fail as teachers, as ministers, as people of faith. We cannot settle for less than greatness.”

Mattie Long sees the newly implemented policy in Kerry diocese about Sunday funerals as a symptom of a problem that is not being confronted in realistic and creative ways.

Chris McDonnell writing in the Catholic Times suggests that one of the fruits of a ‘Year of the People’ would be to ‘offer a forum for an exchange between the once silent majority and the decision making minority.’ It ‘would give us the framework for open discussion in an honest and sincere manner. ‘
Is there an appetite for such a year?

Brian Fahy in looking back at years that have passed points to an important lesson. “‘Forgive and forget’ will not do. ‘Remember and forgive’ seems to be a far better way to healthy living today.”

Brendan Hoban in his Western People column casts an eye at a sense of entitlement that can lead to some people in positions of responsibility and authority being disconnected with the everyday realities of ‘ordinary’ life.

Brendan Hoban lets us know what he’s reading this summer when he’s not writing his column for the Western People.

Chris McDonnell writing recently in the Catholic Times suggests that a rethink of ‘vocation’ is needed but that there will only be a response to the current crisis when ‘a realistic connection is made with contemporary needs.’

The editorial staff of the NCR call for a dialogue about sexual ethics.
“We strongly encourage dialogue between laypeople and church leaders regarding all issues in the sexual sphere. But we also recognize that dialogue can have its limits, particularly if those in leadership do not demonstrate an openness to developing the church’s teaching on sex and sexuality.”