The face of Catholic Ireland is changing beyond recognition. Ten years ago, well over 80 percent of Irish Catholics went to Mass at least once a week. That number is now down to about 60 percent and falling fast. The empty pews seem staggering to anyone who has been away from Ireland for a while, and it's noticeable that those who are at Mass are mostly older people. Fewer … [Read more...] about The Faithful Departed
Issues
The Fighting Fitzgeralds
Brian Dennehy stars in The Fighting Fitzgeralds, premiering this month on NBC. He plays a retired firefighter and widower with three grown sons who just wants to left alone to paint. Unfortunately, Jim, the eldest son (Justin Louis), and his pregnant wife, Sophie (Connie Britton), still live at "home." Youngest son, Patrick (Jon Patrick Walker), quits his job, comes to a … [Read more...] about The Fighting Fitzgeralds
Celebrating Beckett on Film
Dublin: From Feb. 1 through Feb. 8 the Irish Film Center's two theaters were filled with fans eager to catch the premieres of cinematic versions of all 19 of Samuel Beckett's stage plays. Nearly every screening sold out well in advance. Famous names and directors associated with the project include David Mamet, who directed a seven-minute version of Catastrophe starring … [Read more...] about Celebrating Beckett on Film
Life’s Lessons
In the summer of 1998 Katie McMahon was in Belfast following the peace process and completing her study on the political murals. It was there, on a littered soccer field, that she received her calling. "Hey Missus! Give us a go on yer bike!" A group of young boys had caught sight of her on her silver mountain bike. After talking with them a while, Katie asked if they … [Read more...] about Life’s Lessons
Bringing General Corcoran to Life
Sweet fiddle music muffles street sounds, thick carpet softens your footsteps, and lace curtains filter the daylight. Fireside chairs before a fireplace invite you to linger over the photos from the past. At Photo Antiquities, a museum of 19th century photography, the years fall away slowly until Frank Watters, the curator, strides in carrying a musket and wearing a replica … [Read more...] about Bringing General Corcoran to Life