Saint of the Gutters had a great love of Christmas and Advent in particular.

Temporary pledge is about taking time-out to reflect on our relationship with drink.

Orthodox Church in Ireland sees faithful grow from 250 in 1993 to 45,000 in 2011.

Hundreds of people alone for Christmas received gifts that were unwanted in 2012.

“It is prohibited to celebrate those days in this country.”

Pontiff called on God to protect the earth “frequently exploited by human greed and rapacity.”

Time spent in prayer followed by a private meeting at Mater Ecclesiae monastery.

Primate invites politicians to support Pope Francis' call for all out action on global hunger.

Recovery of economic sovereignty may appease markets but austerity has been "most unjust".

For too many Christmas is marked by “over indulgence, extravagance and selfishness.”

Concern over "recent violent threats to public safety and security on our streets."

Homeless Act would give homeless a legal right to suitable accommodation.

'Pope Francis effect' results in marked upsurge in interest in the papacy in 2013.

Public urged to remember older people in need at this time of year.

Archbishop notes churches are increasingly filled and parishes have a renewed enthusiasm.

“We not only want to ensure that no child is left disappointed, but that no family is left struggling because of the cost of Christmas.”

Susan Gately provides a clear and simple version of the Christmas story, ideal for a nativity play for young children in school or youth groups.

(Fr. Shay’s columns are published in The Manila Times, in publications in Ireland, the UK, Hong Kong, and on-line.)http://www.preda.org/main/archives/2010/r10120801.html

112 pp. Veritas Publications. to purchase this book online, go to www.veritas.ie

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