Father Solanus Casey, a first-generation Irish American Capuchin priest, was beatified in Detroit in November, creating the possibility that he may become the first American-born male to become a saint. Casey is only the third person born in the U.S. to receive the title of “blessed,” the level below sainthood. Casey’s beatification comes after a Panamanian woman was cured of … [Read more...] about Irish American Priest Beatified in Detroit
Religion
Church of Scientology Arrives in Dublin
A new Church of Scientology National Affairs Office has made its home in Merrion Square, Dublin, and will be used to deliver Scientology-supported social programs in Ireland, such as rights awareness campaigns, educational courses, and resources for recovering drug addicts. “By opening the doors of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office for Ireland, we are continuing … [Read more...] about Church of Scientology Arrives in Dublin
Paddy’s Papal Absence
By Ray Cavanaugh, Contributor
It sure was big news when Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, was chosen. And there has been talk about the prospect of having a black or Asian pope. But amid the widening papal radar, Ireland goes overlooked. Despite the nation’s overwhelming Catholic majority and hard-fought Catholic tradition, no Irishman has likely ever come close to the top position. In 2012 … [Read more...] about Paddy’s Papal Absence
Knock Shrine Turns 135
The story of one of the world’s most famous Marian Shrines began 135 years ago at 8 o’clock on Thursday evening, August 21, 1879, when the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, and John the Evangelist appeared on the south gable end of a church in the rural village of Knock, County Mayo. To the left of John there was a plain altar with a cross and a lamb (the Lamb of God) surrounded … [Read more...] about Knock Shrine Turns 135
Mollie Rogers Inducted into Women’s Hall of Fame
Mother Mary Joseph, the founder of the Maryknoll sisters, is one of nine women who will be inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame this October. Last year, 2012, marked the 100th anniversary of the Maryknoll sisters, so it’s an appropriate time to highlight the work of Mother Mary Joseph, or Mollie Rogers, as she was known prior to joining religious life. Mollie was … [Read more...] about Mollie Rogers Inducted into Women’s Hall of Fame