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# Columban Missionaries

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## Posts

- [Columbans Concelebrate Legion of Mary Mass](https://columbans.ie/columbans-concelebrate-legion-of-mary-mass/) - Fr John McEvoy attended the annual Legion of Mary Mass in Meath Diocese. He recalls the shared mission of Evangelisation and the long bonds between the Columbans and the Legion of Mary. It is a kind of a coincidence that the establishment of the ‘Maynooth Mission to China’ on the 29th June 1918 by
- [Holidays](https://columbans.ie/holidays/) - When spring turns to summer our thoughts turn to holidays. Many of us are unaware that the word holiday comes from the Old English word for Holy Day. The word originally referred only to special religious days, such as Christmas, Easter, saints’ days etc. What is the connection between holidays and holy days? Both express the
- [A Walk in the Footsteps of St Oliver Plunkett](https://columbans.ie/a-walk-in-the-footsteps-of-st-oliver-plunkett/) - Fr John McEvoy took part in a pilgrim walk in Drogheda on 3rd July 2026 to commemorate the martyred Archbishop of Armagh, St Oliver Plunkett. The walk was led by Archbishop Eamon Martin, St Oliver’s successor in Armagh. On Friday evening 3rd July, a group of about 100 pilgrims gathered at St Peter's Church on
- [Dan’s 'Mission Sending' Ceremony in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/dans-mission-sending-ceremony-in-dalgan/) - The Society's Invitation to Mission (SIM) programme continues to provide a valuable opportunity for people to experience missionary life and service in an overseas context, writes Fr Padraig O’Donovan. We were pleased to welcome a new participant to the programme, Dan Rooks, who recently completed a five-month orientation and preparation period with the Columbans. During
- [Fr Cornelius (‘Con’) Murphy](https://columbans.ie/fr-cornelius-con-murphy/) - Cornelius Patrick (‘Con’) Murphy was born on 3rd April 1936 in Kilmurry, Co Cork. He was educated at Kilbonane NS, and St Finbarr’s College, Farrenferris, Cork. He entered Dalgan Park, Navan in September 1954 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1960. Appointed to Korea in 1961, after initial language studies he served in Hoeng
- [Columban Parish Opens in Pakistan Thanks to Bequest](https://columbans.ie/columban-parish-in-pakistan-opens-thanks-to-bequest/) - Last weekend, St Brendan’s church (Badin parish, Pakistan) was blessed and officially opened by Bishop Samson Shukardin of Hyderabad. It was a joyful celebration for the local Punjabi community and for Columbans Frs Pat Visanti and Elbert Balbastro who minister there, writes Fr Pat Colgan. St Brendan the Navigator (c. 484–578 AD) was an early
- [The July/August issue of the Far East is available now!](https://columbans.ie/the-july-august-issue-of-the-far-east-is-available-now/) - In the July/August issue of the Far East magazine Sr Ann Gray explains how a replica of a 6th century bell has reinforced the bonds between the Columban Sisters and a school in Hong Kong. Fr Pat Colgan speaks to Fr Leo Gopal, a priest of the Diocese of Mytkyina, in Kachin State, Myanmar, about
- [Martyrs Remembered at Cemetery Sunday in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/martyrs-remembered-at-cemetery-sunday-in-dalgan/) - Hundreds of family members and relatives of deceased Columban Missionaries attended the yearly Cemetery Sunday Remembrance Mass and Blessing of the Graves in Dalgan on Pentecost Sunday. The celebrant was Fr David Kenneally, Regional Director of the Columbans in Ireland. In his homily, Fr Kenneally reminded those gathered in the cemetery in Dalgan that this
- [Clonard To Trim In the Footsteps of St Columbanus](https://columbans.ie/clonard-to-trim-in-the-footsteps-of-st-columbanus/) - In glorious sunshine on Saturday morning the 20th of June, over forty pilgrims, including a number of Knights of St Columbanus, set out in the footsteps of St Columbanus. The pilgrimage included walking and some kayaking along the route from Clonard to Trim in County Meath. The theme of our walk/paddle was ‘A prayer for
- [Prayers for the Missing Nanuku Nine](https://columbans.ie/prayers-for-the-missing-nanuku-nine/) - Fr Frank Hoare appeals for solidarity and prayerful support for the families of the Nanuku Nine – a group of men who disappeared at the beginning of May on a fishing expedition in Fiji. One morning at the beginning of May, nine men ranging in age from 20 years to 57 years, said goodbye to
- [Fr Bernard ('Barney') Willliam Martin](https://columbans.ie/fr-bernard-barney-willliam-martin/) - Fr Bernard (‘Barney’) Martin was born in Ballymena, Co Antrim on 18th April 1931. He is an older brother of Fr Richard Martin and a nephew of the late Fr Bernard O’Neill. He was educated in Crescent Primary School Limerick, Ballymena PES and St Malachy’s College, Belfast. Barney came to Dalgan in September 1950 and
- [Columban Families Gather for Cemetery Sunday](https://columbans.ie/cemetery-sunday-recalls-families-friends-and-benefactors/) - Over 400 family members and relatives of deceased Columban missionaries travelled to St Columban’s, Dalgan last Sunday for the annual Cemetery Sunday Mass gathering and the blessing of the graves. Due to the inclement weather, mass was celebrated inside in the college for only the second time. The blessing of the graves took place between
- [Director of US-Mexico Columban Centre Honoured](https://columbans.ie/director-of-us-mexico-columban-centre-honoured/) - Columban Missionary Fr Alvaro Martinez reports on the recent honour awarded to the Director of the Columban Pastoral Centre at the US-Mexico border. Cristina Coronado received Annunciation House’s 'Voice of the Voiceless' award. In the heart of the US-Mexico border region, where migration's complexities often collide with human suffering, a powerful beacon of hope recently
- [Life on a Platter](https://columbans.ie/life-on-a-platter/) - Columban Missionary Fr Tim Mulroy writes about a ten-week workshop at the Columban Mission Centre in Lima equipping migrant women with baking and cooking skills to help them find work. Could it be said that the reign of God is like a platter of various kinds of pastries which a group of women from
- [River Skane's Biodiversity Under the Lens in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/focus-on-river-skanes-biodiversity-at-its-dalgan-segment/) - This year’s ‘Take Me to the River’ project saw Dalgan host a mix of indoor and outdoor presentations focused on the biodiversity of the River Skane where it flows through the Columbans’ land. The theme of the event was 'River Systems Magnify - Dalgan Park and the Skane River'. It was part of Biodiversity Week
- [“Bring flowers of the rarest…”](https://columbans.ie/bring-flowers-of-the-rarest/) - In the month of May, my thoughts often return to the days of my childhood when my two sisters and I would set up a May altar at home, writes Columban Missionary Sr Ann Gray. Singing the well-known hymn, ‘Bring flowers of the rarest, bring blossoms the fairest, from garden and woodland and hillside and
- [Columban Farewell: Nature Restored + 6 Chapels Built](https://columbans.ie/columban-farewell-six-churches-built-and-nature-restored/) - The Columban presence in Our Lady of Lourdes Mission Station, Don Victoriano, Misamis Occidental (Philippines) is ending, writes Columban Missionary Fr Brendan Kelly. It has been a blessing in the lives of the faith community. A once peripheral, marginalised, and often neglected community has been regularly served, strengthening the catechetical, Eucharistic and youth ministries. Over
- [French Pilgrims Visit Dalgan and Magheramore](https://columbans.ie/french-pilgrims-welcomed-in-dalgan-and-magheramore/) - A group of 28 pilgrims from the parish of Luxeuil-les-Bain in France, where St Columbanus founded a monastery in the 6th century, visited both the Columban Fathers in Dalgan Park and the Columban Sisters in Magheramore as part of their pilgrim journey in the footsteps of the Irish saint. Led by Fr Jean-François Francisco and
- [Vocation for Justice at 40](https://columbans.ie/vocation-for-justice-at-40/) - Becca Long spoke to Columban Missionary Fr Ed O’Connell and Columban co-worker Ellen Teague about Vocation for Justice, the Columban newsletter which has been promoting justice and highlighting injustice for four decades. If you’ve been a faithful reader of Vocation for Justice (VfJ) you won’t be surprised to hear that it was born 40 years
- [St Bernadette: Awakening Lapsed Faith](https://columbans.ie/st-bernadette-awakening-lapsed-faith/) - On many occasions I have recounted my vocational journey and how reading the novel, The Song of Bernadette by Franz Werfel, changed my life’s trajectory. However, what I have never related was the specific traits of St Bernadette Soubirous’ personality that awakened my lapsed Catholic faith. As a child, I was fascinated with the lives
- [May/June 2026 Issue of Far East Now Available!](https://columbans.ie/may-june-2026-issue-of-far-east-now-available/) - In the May/June 2026 issue of the Far East magazine, Columban Missionary Fr Tim Mulroy writes about a workshop at the Columban Mission Centre in Lima equipping migrant women with baking and cooking skills to help them find work. ‘Life on a Platter’ is both uplifting and inspiring, showing how the Columbans are making a
- [St Columbanus Inspires Migrant Outreach](https://columbans.ie/st-columbanus-unites-migrant-outreach-in-italy-and-ireland/) - The ‘Paolo Freire’ State Institute for Adult Education (CPIA) has three campuses in Turin (Italy) offering educational courses to migrant adults. The courses in Italian, English, French and other subjects are offered at night to those who have day jobs and in the morning to those who are recently arrived and aren’t yet authorised to
- [Mission In Myanmar Comes Full Circle](https://columbans.ie/mission-in-myanmar-comes-full-circle/) - Fr Leo Gopal is a priest of the Diocese of Myitkyina, in Kachin State, Myanmar, who is currently visiting Dalgan. Fr Pat Colgan spoke to him about his family’s links with the Columbans. Fr Leo Gopal great grandparents were brought from Tamil Nadu, India, to work as civil servants for the then British colony
- [Columban Missionaries Visit Bishop Galvin NS](https://columbans.ie/columban-missionaries-visit-bishop-galvin-ns/) - Columban Missionaries Fr Pat Colgan and Angie Escarsa were invited to visit Bishop Galvin National School in Templeogue, Dublin which is named after Bishop Edward Galvin, co-founder of the Missionary Society of St Columban. They spoke to 3rd and 4th classes about Bishop Galvin’s life, his time in China, and his legacy through the Columban
- [RTÉ Series on Irish Missionaries Wins Award](https://columbans.ie/rte-series-on-irish-missionaries-wins-award/) - Scratch Films has won a Wilbur Award for its RTÉ documentary series ‘The Last Irish Missionaries’, earning international recognition for its portrayal of the lives, legacy and complexities of Ireland’s missionary tradition. In its citation, the judging panel described ‘The Last Irish Missionaries’ as “a powerfully and thoughtfully constructed documentary series” that honours “the extraordinary
- [Columbans Interviewed for Missionaries Documentary](https://columbans.ie/columbans-feature-in-two-rte-documentaries-on-irish-missionaries/) - Since St Columba and St Columbanus Irish missionaries have followed the example of our ‘saints and scholars’ in taking their faith to every corner of the known world. At the peak of the Irish missionary movement, in the 1960s, over 6,000 Irish Catholic missionaries were dispersed over 80 countries. But a movement, which put Ireland
- [Earth Day Celebrated in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/earth-day-celebrated-in-dalgan/) - Earth Day was celebrated by the Columban Missionaries today in Dalgan beginning with prayers at Mass. Fr John Leydon, who for many years worked in the Philippines, prayed that we may be more sensitive to the cry of the Earth. Later this morning Columbans transplanted native oak saplings which have begun to sprout up over
- [Grounds in Dalgan Open from 9am to 8pm](https://columbans.ie/grounds-in-dalgan-open-from-9am-to-8pm/) - The grounds of Dalgan Park are currently open to the public between 9am and 8pm daily. (Summertime hours). Situated three miles south of Navan on five acres of parklands and woods, Dalgan Park is the home of the Missionary Society of St Columban in Ireland. The Columban Fathers built the college at Dalgan in 1938.
- [Tribute to Supporter Linked to Columban Martyr](https://columbans.ie/tribute-to-supporter-linked-to-columban-martyr/) - On 8th February 2026, 89-year-old Kim Yongja Susana (1937-2026) - a long time Columban supporter - died very peacefully at her home in Seoul, writes Fr Donal O’Keeffe in Korea. Born in 1937, Susana's father was a carpenter who worked with the Columbans building the cathedral in Chuncheon, Korea. Growing up around the church she
- [Opening hours of the grounds at Dalgan Park](https://columbans.ie/opening-hours-of-the-grounds-at-dalgan-park/) - The grounds of Dalgan Park are currently open to the public between 9am and 8pm daily. (Summer time hours) Situated three miles south of Navan on five acres of parklands and woods, Dalgan Park is the home of the Missionary Society of St Columban in Ireland. The Columban Fathers built the college at Dalgan in
- [Mission in Myanmar is the Easter story - Fr Kurt](https://columbans.ie/mission-in-myanmar-is-the-easter-story-fr-kurt/) - What is mission like in Myanmar? It is Good Friday and Easter Sunday living in the same house, writes Columban Missionary Fr Kurt Zion Pala of the joys and struggles in this challenging country. When people ask me, “What is mission like in Myanmar?”, I often pause. Mission here is difficult and beautiful. It
- [The Crucifixion by Peni Veniceva](https://columbans.ie/the-crucifixion-by-peni-veniceva/) - In our Easter issue of the Far East magazine we are featuring a depiction of the Crucifixion by Fijian artist Peni Vuniceva. The women in the painting are in Fijian attire of Masi cloth and white sulus, while Christ and the menfolk have Fijian features. The young men in the background (soldiers) who sit casting
- [Columban Director for Oceania Visits Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/columban-director-for-oceania-visits-dalgan/) - Fr Pat Raleigh writes about the recent visit of Fr Pat McInerney, the Columban Regional Director for Oceania, to Dalgan. It is always a pleasure to welcome people like Fr Pat McInerney, he certainly enriched us with his presence and visit. A native of Adelaide in Australia, Pat is currently the Columban Regional Director for
- [‘You have turned my mourning into dancing’](https://columbans.ie/you-have-turned-my-mourning-into-dancing/) - As we continue to make our way through Lent, our days in this part of the world are still dark and our longing for late sunsets and long, bright evenings is increasing. Despite the flowering of the snowdrops and the early daffodils, our gardens are still, for the most part, bereft of colour. The longing
- [The Turin Shroud and Paschal Events](https://columbans.ie/the-turin-shroud-and-paschal-events/) - Fr Maurice Hogan considers new scientific evidence on the Shroud which is believed by many to be the burial cloth of Jesus. He highlights how the injuries sustained by the body wrapped in the cloth corroborate Gospel accounts of Jesus’ crucifixion. The Shroud of Turin has been venerated for nearly two millennia as the burial
- [Fr Kelly's Jigs and Reels](https://columbans.ie/fr-kellys-jigs-and-reels/) - Fr Alo Connaughton attended the launch of a new album of Columban Missionary and piano accordion player Fr PJ Kelly’s music. He recalls how the Far East magazine played a role in preserving some of Fr PJ’s traditional tunes and how the new album is bringing his compositions to a new generation. Musicians young and
- [Winners Announced in Columban Competition](https://columbans.ie/winners-in-2026-columban-schools-competition-announced/) - Winners of our 2026 Columban Schools Media Competition for young people in Ireland and Britain have been announced. This year the competition attracted a record 349 entries across Britain and Ireland, the highest number in the nine years the Columbans have run the Schools Media Competition. The response in Britain was particularly high. Young people
- [Fr Cyril Lovett Recites his Poem 'Snowdrops'](https://columbans.ie/fr-cyril-lovett-recites-his-poem-snowdrops/) - As we move into Spring, Columban Missionary Fr Cyril Lovett welcomes the change in seasons by reciting his poem, 'Snowdrops'. Fr Cyril worked for many years in the Philippines and later in Brazil. He was Editor of Far East until 2016.
- [ACN Campaign Focuses on Columban in Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/acn-lenten-campaign-focuses-on-columban-in-pakistan/) - Aid to the Church in Need Ireland’s Lenten Missionary Campaign has highlighted the work of Columban Missionary, Fr Tomás King in Pakistan. The campaign is promoted as giving “some much-deserved attention to the heroic efforts of Christian missionaries in some of the most dangerous environments for Christians around the world”. Fr Tomás is an Irish
- [Larne’s Lenten Journey](https://columbans.ie/larnes-lenten-journey/) - Lent is a season of reflection, repentance and renewal — a sacred time of surrendering in carrying our crosses, trusting in God, and discovering hope even in the midst of suffering, writes Columban Lay Missionary Joan Yap. Larne is a single mother of two daughters now aged 26 and 17 years old respectively. She was
- [Human Trafficking is a Global Challenge](https://columbans.ie/human-trafficking-is-a-global-challenge/) - Ahead of World Day Against Human Trafficking on 30th July, Columban missionary Fr Shay Cullen highlights the corrupt businesspeople, politicians and police that protect the evil trade in innocent vulnerable humans. When the group of eight teenagers was first referred to the Preda Home for Girls, they were still in shock having been taken into
- [Columban message for Laudato Si' Week](https://columbans.ie/columban-message-for-laudato-si-week/) - Missionary Society of St Columban 2020 Laudato Si’ Week Message Because all creatures are connected, each must be cherished with love and respect, for all of us as living creatures are dependent on one another. LS 42 24 May 2020 marks the 5th anniversary of the release of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’: On Care
- [Focus on the Turin Shroud in the Far East Magazine](https://columbans.ie/focus-on-the-turin-shroud-in-the-far-east-magazine/) - In the March/April 2026 issue of the Far East Columban Missionary Fr Maurice Hogan considers new scientific evidence on the Shroud of Turin, believed by many to the burial cloth of Jesus. He highlights how the injuries sustained by the body wrapped in the cloth corroborate Gospel accounts of Jesus’ crucifixion. Fr Maurice was ordained
- [Columbans Meet & Greet at Divine Mercy Conference](https://columbans.ie/columbans-meet-greet-at-divine-mercy-conference/) - Columban Fathers and members of the Mission Office and the Far East magazine attended the 2026 Divine Mercy Conference in the RDS, Dublin last weekend, writes Fr John McEvoy. Each year, the conference draws large crowds from all over Ireland to hear powerful talks, participate in uplifting worship, meaningful fellowship, and experience moments of deep
- [Maynooth Seminarians Gift €2k for SSC Seminarians](https://columbans.ie/maynooth-seminarians-gift-e2000-to-columban-seminarians/) - Members of Aontas, a charitable association of seminarians studying for priesthood in Maynooth, visited Dalgan this week to present a cheque for €2,000 to support the training of Columban seminarians. Aontas (meaning ‘union’ in Irish) was founded in 1989 and since then has raised thousands of euro for the formation of priests all over the
- ['Eat Well, Stay Well' - Dalgan Talk on Nutrition](https://columbans.ie/eat-well-stay-well-dalgan-talk-on-nutrition/) - The four most important nutrients as we age are protein, fibre, calcium and vitamin D, as well as vitamin B12 and foliate, a recent talk in Dalgan heard. ‘Eat Well, Stay Well: Nutrition for Health at All Ages’ is a practical guide to nourishing life and the talk was given by Sodexo. Among the points
- [Storms Batter Philippines As Climate Crisis Takes Toll](https://columbans.ie/storms-batter-philippines-as-climate-change-hurts-the-poor/) - The Philippines has been battered by devastating storms in recent weeks, writes Columban Missionary Fr Shay Cullen. We endure around 20 powerful typhoons a year and occasionally experience earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Recently, in Liloan, Cebu, several families were caught in floods rising as high as their rooftops. They had to climb mango trees to
- [Fr John Molloy](https://columbans.ie/fr-john-molloy/) - Fr John Molloy was born on 20th June 1936 at Birch Hall, Oughterard, Co. Galway. He was educated at Roscahill NS and St Mary’s College, Galway. His brother Michael was a legendary long-distance runner and John also loved to run. He came to Dalgan in September 1955 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1961.
- [Fr John Vincent McLaughlin](https://columbans.ie/fr-john-vincent-mclaughlin/) - Fr John Vincent McLaughlin was born in Belfast, Co Antrim on 19th July 1938. He was educated at Moville NS, Co Donegal, at Blackrock College, Co Dublin, at Holy Cross College, Clonliffe, Dublin, at National University, Dublin and at Maynooth College, Co Kildare. He was incardinated into the Archdiocese of Dublin and ordained priest in
- [Pilgrims of Hope](https://columbans.ie/pilgrims-of-hope/) - Fr Peter Dong spoke to Cecilia Kim about an exchange programme for young people on Jeju Island as part of preparations for a global gathering of young Catholics next year. Last August an exchange programme brought together young people from mainland China, Taiwan and Hong Kong on the Korean island of Jeju. In all
- [Lent: Sacred Waters](https://columbans.ie/lent-sacred-waters/) - As we begin Lent, the Society’s Central JPIC Coordinator, Amy Woolam Echeverria, reflects on Jesus’ meeting with the Samaritan women at the well. The story of Jesus meeting the woman at the well is a deep source of hope and comfort for Christians. By encountering the Samaritan alone at the well and asking her for
- [Fr Michael Kevin O’Boyle](https://columbans.ie/fr-michael-kevin-oboyle/) - Michael Kevin O’Boyle was born in Quilty, Co Clare on 20th May 1935. He was educated at Quilty NS and at St Flannan’s College, Ennis, Co Clare. He entered Dalgan in September 1953 was ordained priest on 21st December 1959. He was assigned to Chile and, after language studies, served his first term in San
- [BBC Features Columban Embroidery Ministry](https://columbans.ie/bbc-features-columban-embroidery-ministry-in-juarez/) - BBC News reported on the Columban Border Ministry and the Migrant Embroiderers of Juárez, Mexico. The link to this video report is here: The Columban Welcome Centre for Migrants and Refugees located in the lower level of the Cathedral in Juárez, Mexico has been fulfilling Jesus' mandate to ‘welcome the stranger’ for the last seven
- [Far East Launches New Series on Biodiversity](https://columbans.ie/far-east-launches-new-series-on-biodiversity/) - In the first of a new series on biodiversity, Columban co-worker Ellen Teague reports on the ‘Raising Hope’ Conference in Castel Gandolfo and explains how protecting and restoring biodiversity is a mission priority of the Columbans. Magnificent cypress and umbrella pine trees towered over us as we walked through beautifully sculpted eighteenth century gardens. It
- ['Jesus is the Light' Fr Andrei Tells Young Columbans](https://columbans.ie/young-columbans-must-allow-gods-light-to-shine-through/) - At the closing gathering of Young Columbans in the Philippines, Society Leader, Fr Andrei Paz, prayed that they “trust that the light God has placed in us, however ordinary it may seem, is enough to make a difference in this complicated world we live in”. Here is Fr Andrei’s full homily given at the Church
- [Rise in Polio Cases in Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/rise-in-polio-cases-in-pakistan/) - Last year alarm bells rang internationally when an outbreak of Polio was reported in war-torn Gaza. A major humanitarian effort was set in motion to allow a vaccination programme take place. Afghanistan is another country with Polio cases. Sadly, Pakistan in recent years has seen a rise in the number of Polio cases, reports Columban
- [Needed New Words](https://columbans.ie/needed-new-words/) - Fr Bobby Gilmore looks at the roots of the words ‘xenophobia’ and ‘genocide’ and asks if the word ‘veracide’ should be added to our lexicon to describe the death of truth. Pilate asked; “What is truth?” Frequently one hears the expression, usually after some atrocity; “it is difficult to find words to describe what happened
- [Update on Fr Neil's Quake Damaged College](https://columbans.ie/update-on-fr-neills-quake-damaged-college-in-mandalay/) - Columban Fr Neil Magill founded the Higher Education College (HEC) in Mandalay (Myanmar) in 2007. In March 2025, the college was badly damaged by the massive earthquake that hit Myanmar. The epicentre of the 7.7 magnitude quake was close to the city of Mandalay, Myanmar’s second largest city. It killed over 5,300 people and left
- [A Hidden Life](https://columbans.ie/a-hidden-life/) - During my time in Korea, I cared for patients suffering from Hansen’s disease, more commonly known as leprosy, a word we rarely use nowadays due to the stigma attached to it. I worked in a small 30-bed hospital with an Outpatient Skin Clinic. The doctor interviewing me highlighted that it was an infectious disease, but
- [Fr Brendan Joseph Patrick Murray](https://columbans.ie/fr-brendan-joseph-patrick-murray/) - Fr Brendan Joseph Patrick Murray was born on 22nd September 1932 at Louville, Ahascragh, Co Galway. He was educated at Ahascragh NS and St Joseph’s College, Garbally, Ballinasloe. Brendan came to Dalgan in September 1950 and was an exchange student in the USA from 1953-56. He was ordained priest in Dalgan on 21st December 1956.
- [Korean Revives Knitwear Brand Founded by Fr PJ](https://columbans.ie/korean-revives-knitwear-brand-founded-by-columban/) - The Korea Times has published a report on a Korean company which is breathing new life into Hallimhandweavers, Jeju island’s wool knitwear brand founded in 1959 by Columban Missionary Fr (PJ) Patrick James McGlinchey. In the 1950s, in the wake of the Korean War, Fr McGlinchey brought sheep to an impoverished Jeju island to help
- [Posthumous Distinguished Alumni Award for Fr Kevin](https://columbans.ie/posthumous-distinguished-alumni-award-for-fr-kevin-orourke/) - The Irish Ambassador to Korea, Michelle Winthrop, received on behalf of the late Columban Missionary Fr Kevin O’Rourke, the Distinguished Alumni Award from Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea. Fr Kevin O’Rourke is the first foreign national to receive this honour. It was awarded in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the translation of Korean literature. Fr
- [From Tyburn to Peru](https://columbans.ie/from-tyburn-to-peru/) - Oxford Street in London is the busiest shopping thoroughfare in Britain and one of the most famous in the world. At the top of Oxford Street, by Marble Arch, you have to cross a traffic island, where most passers-by will have their eyes fixed on the pedestrian traffic lights. However, if they were to glance
- [Messenger of St Anthony Features Columban Martyrs](https://columbans.ie/messenger-of-st-anthony-features-columban-martyrs/) - The Messenger of St Anthony (English language edition) featured the seven Columban Martyrs who died in Korea in 1950 in the December 2025 edition. It also highlighted the tapestry 'Woven into Memory' which was commissioned by Jacqueline Creavan d'Towey, a relative of martyr Fr Francis Canavan and was designed and woven by artist Frances Crowe.
- [Warmi Huasi: Working on Behalf of Peru's Children](https://columbans.ie/warmi-huasi-working-on-behalf-of-perus-children/) - Warmi Huasi is quechua for “Women’s House” and is the name chosen for a small Civil Association founded in 2003 by Columbans Missionaries Fathers Ed O’Connell, John Hegerty and Bernie Lane and three lay professionals. By 2018 Warmi Huasi had become well established, with 15 years of experience accompanying women and families in situations of
- ['Journey of the Magi' read by Fr Kevin McHugh](https://columbans.ie/journey-of-the-magi-by-t-s-eliot-read-by-fr-kevin-mchugh/) - 'Journey of the Magi' is a 43-line poem written in 1927 by T.S. Eliot. The poem opens with a bleak, wintry landscape that mirrors the physical and spiritual hardship of the journey. It is written from the point of view of one of the magi, or wise men, who travelled from their foreign kingdoms to
- ["May 2026 be a year of peace and gratitude"](https://columbans.ie/may-2026-be-a-year-of-peace-and-gratitude/) - January is the time of the year when we look ahead and make a resolution to exercise more or commit ourselves to some change. But we also have to look back and see how we did in the past. As a missionary, it can be very hard to see the fruits of our labour. I
- [A Very Happy Christmas from Dalgan!](https://columbans.ie/a-very-happy-christmas-from-dalgan/) - Columbans Missionaries in Dalgan, along with staff and coworkers, came together to celebrate Christmas in the Nursing Home, in the College, and with a carol service in the chapel in Dalgan. Wishing all our families, friends, supporters and donors and very happy and blessed Christmas. Thank you for all your support. Sending you our very
- [A Christmas Day to Remember](https://columbans.ie/a-christmas-day-to-remember/) - Last Christmas Columban Missionary Fr John McEvoy was invited to celebrate Mass in the ruins of Killoughey’s old church and cemetery where 373 years previously 100 people were brutally killed as they attended Christmas Day Mass. It was a strange invitation. At the time I thought it unreasonable and even not possible! Would I consider
- [Christmas Message from Fr Andrei Paz Society Leader](https://columbans.ie/christmas-message-from-columban-leader-fr-andrei-paz/) - Every Christmas, we celebrate the gift of Christ, the hope he brings, the joy of God’s presence, and the love that continues to shine in our world. Across many countries, Columban missionaries have walked with communities living in poverty, stood alongside refugees and migrants, nurtured local communities, and worked for justice, peace, and care for
- [Christmas Editorial in the Far East magazine](https://columbans.ie/christmas-editorial-in-the-far-east-magazine/) - Fr Jason Antiquera is a Filipino Columban missionary artist working in Korea. Through his art ministry he shares Gospel joy and helps people to connect with God. Here he shares some insights into the Nativity as depicted in his painting of the first Christmas on the cover of the December issue of the Far East.
- [Fr Thomas Patrick (TP) Reynolds](https://columbans.ie/fr-thomas-patrick-tp-reynolds/) - Fr Thomas Patrick (TP) Reynolds was born on 14th March 1935 at Strokestown, Co Roscommon. His primary education was with the Mercy Sisters and later with the Marist Brothers in Strokestown. His secondary education was at Scoil Mhuire, Bawn Street, Strokestown, which was an extraordinary private two-teacher co-educational high school. Having passed the Irish Civil
- [Tuam Herald Features Martyr Fr Frank Canavan](https://columbans.ie/tuam-herald-features-columban-martyr-fr-frank-canavan/) - The Tuam Herald marked the 75th anniversary of the death of Columban Missionary Fr Frank Canavan on 6th December with a feature highlighting his life and tragic death during the Korean War. The article was written by historian Mairéad O’Brien who wrote a number of articles in local newspapers and the Far East magazine over
- [New Documentary on 7 Columban Martyrs](https://columbans.ie/new-documentary-on-7-columban-martyrs-now-online/) - A new documentary, ‘Remembering the Seven', telling the story of seven Columban Fathers who were killed at the beginning of the Korean War in 1950, has been made by a grand niece of martyr, Fr Anthony Collier. The film is the work of Emma O’Brien, who is not only a film maker and grand niece
- [The Seven Million Miracle](https://columbans.ie/the-seven-million-miracle/) - As we contemplate the Christmas miracle, Fr John Boles invites us to learn about a Columban miracle – the Prayer Trust – which has published an astonishing seven million booklets and is marking its silver jubilee this year. The Prayer Trust is one of the most enduring – and endearing – features of Columban mission
- [Planning for Christmas](https://columbans.ie/planning-for-christmas/) - Fr Tim Mulroy recalls a conversation he had with an elderly missionary about his prayerful preparations for a quiet Christmas, each day remembering some of the people and places from his life’s journey. “How do you plan to celebrate Christmas?” I asked Fr Peter who, having spent more than fifty years on mission, was
- [Plenty to Read This Christmas in the Far East!](https://columbans.ie/plenty-of-reading-in-the-christmas-issue-of-the-far-east/) - The December 2025 issue of the Far East is now available in print and digital editions with plenty content to help you prepare for Advent and Christmas. Fr Tim Mulroy recalls a conversation he had with an elderly missionary about his prayerful preparations for a quiet Christmas, each day remembering some of the people and
- [Renovation of Cathedral of St Columban in Myitkyina](https://columbans.ie/renovation-of-st-columbans-cathedral-in-myitkyina/) - Columban Missionary Fr Eamon Sheridan visited St Columban’s Cathedral in Myitkyina to see recent renovation work and learn about plans to renovate the rest of the Cathedral, which was built by the Columbans in Myanmar in the 1950s. The foundation stone for St Columban’s Cathedral in Myitkyina Diocese in Kachin State in Myanmar was laid
- [Fr John Colgan](https://columbans.ie/fr-john-colgan/) - Fr John Colgan was born in Carrickmore, Co Tyrone on 13 September 1936. He was educated in St Colmcille’s NS Carrickmore and CBS Omagh. He came to Dalgan in September 1954, and was sent as an exchange student to the Columban Seminary in Milton, MA, USA from 1957 to 1960. On his return to Dalgan
- [Columbans Launch New Christmas Card Collection](https://columbans.ie/columbans-launch-new-christmas-card-collection/) - Our latest collection features five beautiful Christmas Shared Mass Cards. Each card depicts a key moment in the Christmas story through the words of treasured hymns. The images display the guiding Star in the East announcing the Messiah, the journey of the Magi to Bethlehem, the tenderness of the Virgin birth, and the adoration at
- [Cardinal Coutts and Bishop Nulty Visit Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/cardinal-coutts-and-bishop-nulty-visit-dalgan/) - Two high-ranking prelates visited Dalgan this week as the Society in Ireland and worldwide celebrated the Feast of St Columbanus. On Monday, 24th November the Columbans in Dalgan gathered in the College Chapel to celebrate the Feast of St Columban. Due to the fact that 23rd November fell on the feast of Christ the King,
- [Pray for Peace With St Columban](https://columbans.ie/pray-for-peace-with-st-columban/) - On the feast day of our patron, St Columban, on the 23rd November, the Columban Missionaries will be praying especially for peace in our world. Amid the ongoing conflicts, divisions and wars in our world, why not unite your prayers with us in asking St Columban to help us build greater solidarity and fraternity amongst
- [Climate Change Tightens Grip in Philippines](https://columbans.ie/filipinos-remain-resilient-as-climate-change-tightens-its-grip/) - The Philippines has been battered by devastating storms in recent weeks. We endure around 20 powerful typhoons a year and occasionally experience earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, writes Columban Missionary Fr Shay Cullen. Recently, in Liloan, Cebu, several families were caught in floods rising as high as their rooftops. They had to climb mango trees to
- [St Columbanus: Radical Visionary](https://columbans.ie/st-columbanus-radical-visionary/) - St Columbanus was a man who crossed borders, literally and figuratively, and was the first to speak about a European identity. For his feast day on 23rd November we publish an extract of former president of Ireland Dr Mary McAleese's talk: ‘Columbanus, the Man from Myshall’ which was delivered as part of the XXV Columbanus
- [Columban Statement for COP30](https://columbans.ie/columban-statement-for-cop30/) - In a statement ahead of COP30, Columbans are urging world leaders to "commit to bold, enforceable climate policies that prioritise frontline communities" and "uphold the principles of integral ecology, recognising the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and spiritual well-being." Decades of Care for the Earth: A Columban Statement for COP30 As the UNFCC COP30 convenes in
- [Christmas Cards Make Love Visible](https://columbans.ie/christmas-cards-make-love-visible/) - Fr Vincent Busch writes about his ministry with the Subanen Indigenous People in the Philippines and the challenges they face as they prepare the latest set of Christmas Cards. I have worked with Subanen artists belonging to the indigenous Subanen people of Western Mindanao in the Philippines for 25 years with the help of the
- [November Far East Focuses on St Columbanus](https://columbans.ie/november-far-east-focuses-on-st-columbanus/) - The November issue of the Far East magazine has a number of features relating to St Columbanus, as well as articles on pilgrimage, remembering our beloved dead, and a sociological study of the Irish missionary diaspora. From just €10 for a digital subscription and €20 for a print edition - please subscribe and support our
- [President of Fiji Thanks Columbans During Dalgan Visit](https://columbans.ie/president-of-fiji-thanks-columbans-during-dalgan-visit/) - St Columban’s, Dalgan Park in Navan is no stranger to visitors and dignitaries from different parts of the world, especially from countries where Columbans missionaries worked, writes Fr John McEvoy. Ambassadors, dignitaries and bishops from these countries drop in on courtesy calls from time to time to acknowledge the work of the Columban in their
- [Video Highlights Deep Ireland-Korea Bond](https://columbans.ie/video-highlights-deep-bond-between-korea-and-ireland/) - The Columbans feature as one of the early bridge-builders between Korea and Ireland in this video. It includes interviews with Columbans who served in Korea, tributes to the seven Columban martyrs who died in the Korean War (1950-53) as well as a visit to Dalgan and the recent Korean Festival 2025 in the Phoenix Park.
- [Delve Deeper](https://columbans.ie/delve-deeper/) - Water scarcity caused by large monoculture plantations in southern Chile is an issue close to Fr Alvaro Martinez’s heart. Thanks to his efforts some native trees and wild flora are flourishing and enhancing biodiversity. Mirrihue Alto is a rural town located five kilometres from the village of Antuco in the Biobío province of southern Chile.
- [In silence and stillness…](https://columbans.ie/in-silence-and-stillness/) - On a still cold morning, walking at a gentle pace around Glendalough, many memories and questions can emerge or be prompted in our minds and hearts. This can be an invitation to our souls to experience healing, renewal, and inspiration through the beauty, silence, solitude, and serenity of the mystics of this holy place. When
- [Pope Leo Appoints Columban Fr Pat McInerney to Interfaith Commission](https://columbans.ie/pope-appoints-columban-fr-patrick-mcinerney-as-a-consultor-to-the-commission-for-religious-relations-with-muslims/) - Pope Leo has appointed Columban Missionary Fr Patrick McInerney as a Consultor to the Commission for Religious Relations with Muslims. A specialist in interfaith dialogue and building bridges, Fr Patrick is Columban Regional Director of Oceania and the Director of Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations. I was surprised, humbled, and honoured to be advised in
- [New Memorial Honours Columbans Who Died a Violent Death](https://columbans.ie/new-memorial-honours-columbans-who-died-a-violent-death/) - Columbans and relatives gathered in the cemetery in Dalgan on Sunday 27th of September for the blessing of a new Memorial dedicated to those Columbans who died violent deaths while on mission, writes Fr Ray Husband. The Memorial was in the pipeline for many years so it was wonderful to see it finally come to
- [Columbans Attend Global Church Climate Summit](https://columbans.ie/columbans-attend-global-church-climate-summit/) - Ellen Teague, a member of the Columbans’ Justice, Peace & Ecology Group, attended the Church’s recent global climate summit ‘Raising Hope’ in Italy. She reports on how 1,000 participants from 80 countries came together to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the encyclical Laudato Si’ and to reflect, pray, and discuss climate justice and the role
- [Ambassador Thanks Columbans for Helping to Rebuild Korea](https://columbans.ie/ambassador-thanks-columbans-for-their-role-in-rebuilding-korea/) - The Columbans in Ireland were represented at the Korean National Day celebrations at the Clayton Hotel, Ballsbridge (Dublin) on 6th October 2025 by General Manager, Philip Gunn. During his speech, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea in Ireland, His Excellency Mr Yong lol-Kim, thanked the Columban Fathers for their help in rebuilding post-war Korea
- [Dalgan Welcomes its First Chinese Episcopal Delegation](https://columbans.ie/dalgan-welcomes-its-first-chinese-episcopal-delegation/) - History was made when three bishops from the Catholic Church in China visited Dalgan Park last week to honour the role the Columbans have played in the faith in China. It is the first Chinese episcopal delegation to visit Dalgan since the Society was founded in 1918. Bishop Guo Jincai of Chengde Diocese is Vice
- [Annual Report Reflects Enduring Commitment of Columban Missionaries](https://columbans.ie/annual-report-reflects-enduring-commitment-of-columbans/) - The 2024/5 Annual Report of the Missionary Society of St Columban reflects the enduring commitment of Columban missionaries who continue to serve in diverse and often difficult contexts, Society Leader, Fr Andrei Paz, has said. In his message to accompany the new report, Fr Paz describes it as "a testament" to supporters and benefactors' "vital
- [Columbans Launch Schools Competition 2026](https://columbans.ie/columbans-launch-schools-competition-2026/) - On World Peace Day, Columbans in Britain and Ireland launched the next Schools Competition 2025/26, which has the theme: “Becoming a refugee is never a choice. But how we respond is.” It is a quote from the United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres, who is a Catholic. Columban missionaries internationally have a mission priority of
- [Plaque Presented to Dalgan by Korean Delegation](https://columbans.ie/plaque-presented-to-dalgan-by-korean-delegation/) - Fr Padraig O’Donovan, Vice Regional Director of Ireland, reports on the recent visit of a group affiliated with the Heritage for Korean Independence Foundation to present a plaque in memory of Columbans Patrick Dawson, Thomas Ryan, and Austin Sweeney. These three Columbans were imprisoned in Korea in the 1940s during the Japanese occupation, charged with
- [The Taejon Martyrs](https://columbans.ie/the-taejon-martyrs/) - This year marks the 75th anniversary of the deaths of seven Columbans in the Korean War. Historian Mairéad O’Brien writes about three of the seven who were killed in the Taejon Massacre. The 24th of September 2025 is the 75th anniversary of the Massacre at Taejon, which took place during the early months of the
- [Fr Derek Fergus Patrick Harris](https://columbans.ie/fr-derek-fergus-patrick-harris/) - Derek Fergus Patrick Harris was born in Dublin on 25th June 1937. He was educated at Presentation Sisters, and Christian Brothers Schools, Dublin, at primary level and at Cistercian College, Roscrea at secondary level. He came to Dalgan in September 1955 and was ordained priest on 20th December 1961. In 1962, he was appointed to
- [Banbridge Mass and Exhibition Focuses on Martyr Fr Joseph Monaghan](https://columbans.ie/banbridge-mass-and-exhibition-focuses-on-martyr-fr-joseph-monaghan/) - On Sunday, 31st August 2025, St Patrick’s Church Banbridge, Co Down held an afternoon in memory of Columban Martyr, Fr Joseph Monaghan, who along with Frs John Henaghan, Patrick Kelly, and Peter Fallon was killed in Manila during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in February 1945. Our Archivist, Róisín O’Brien reports on the day’s
- [New Card for Beloved Deceased in November](https://columbans.ie/new-card-to-remember-beloved-deceased-in-november/) - November is the month of the Holy Souls, a time to remember and pray for the deceased. The month begins with the Feast of All Saints on 1st of November and is followed by the Feast of All Souls (Commemoration of the Faithful Departed) on 2nd of November. We are encouraged to pray for the
- [Laudato Si Inspired Projects Flourish in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/laudato-si-inspired-projects-flourish-in-dalgan/) - As we continue to celebrate the Season of Creation through various activities and events this month, we look at some of the projects inspired by Laudato Si’ which the Columbans in the region of Ireland have undertaken. In 2015, Pope Francis published 'Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home', a groundbreaking encyclical that called
- [Annual Dublin City Interfaith Forum Lecture Focuses on Peace](https://columbans.ie/annual-dublin-city-interfaith-forum-lecture-focuses-on-peace/) - Columban Missionary Fr Pat Colgan is a member of the Dublin City Interfaith Forum. He attended the Forum’s recent annual ‘Peace Day’ lecture titled, ‘Seeds of Peace and Hope’, at the Mansion House and reports on the talks and insights of the day. “Another world is not only possible, she is on her way.
- ['Columban Missionaries hold a place of deep respect in the hearts of Koreans' - Ambassador](https://columbans.ie/columban-missionaries-hold-a-place-of-deep-respect-in-the-hearts-of-koreans-ambassador/) - Ambassador Yong-kil Kim of Korea paid tribute to the Columbans and specifically Fr Donal O’Keeffe in his address to this year’s Korea Festival 2025 at Farmleigh House in the Phoenix Park. The Festival, the largest so far in the now annual event, was hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. In his address,
- [Columban Priorities Chime with Theme of Cardinal's Address](https://columbans.ie/columban-priorities-chime-with-theme-of-cardinals-address/) - Columban priorities adopted at the General Assembly in Peru in 2024 were at the heart of a key address by Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline of Marseille to the Congress of the European Society for Catholic Theology at Trinity College Dublin in August, organised by the Loyola Institute. The four-day Congress explored the relevance of theology for
- [The Theme for Season of Creation 2025 Explained](https://columbans.ie/the-theme-for-season-of-creation-2025-explained/) - Imagine a world where barren lands bloom into vibrant green and peace reigns not only among people but with all creation - this is the vision at the heart of the Season of Creation 2025. Inspired by Isaiah’s words, “The effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness, and trust forever.
- [Far East Magazine Focuses on Season of Creation](https://columbans.ie/far-east-magazine-focuses-on-season-of-creation/) - The September/October issue of the Far East has a special focus on the Season of Creation (1st September – 4th October). In this issue Fr Alvaro Martinez writes about water scarcity caused by large monoculture plantations in southern Chile and how he has helped native trees and wild flora to flourish and enhance biodiversity. Fr
- [Korean Festival Showcases Documentary on Columban Martyrs](https://columbans.ie/korean-festival-to-showcase-new-documentary-on-columban-martyrs/) - A new documentary made by the grandniece of Columban Martyr Fr Tony Collier will be shown on Sunday (31st August) as part of this year’s Korean Festival 2025 in Dublin. The event takes place at Farmleigh House in the Phoenix Park and is hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. One of the
- [Archbishop Martin: Treasure the Testimony of Fr Monaghan](https://columbans.ie/archbishop-martin-treasure-the-testimony-of-fr-monaghan/) - On Sunday 31st August 2025, during a Memorial Mass for the four Columban Missionaries martyred 80 years ago in Manila, Philippines, Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh and Dromore delivered the following homily in St Patrick’s Church, Banbridge, Co Down. Brothers and sisters, when our late Holy Father, Pope Francis, was announcing the Jubilee Year of
- [Fr James O’Neill](https://columbans.ie/fr-james-oneill/) - Fr James Joseph (Seamus) O’Neill was born on 2nd October 1932 in Dungiven, Co Derry. He was educated at Cashel NS, Dungiven, and St Columb’s College, Derry. He came to Dalgan in September 1950 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1956. He was appointed to graduate studies at St Xavier University, Antigonish, Canada 1957-1959,
- [Jubilees Celebrate "Lifelong Commitment" to Columbans](https://columbans.ie/jubilees-celebrate-lifelong-commitment-to-columban-mission/) - On the 15th August, the Feast of the Assumption, Columban Missionaries gathered in Dalgan to celebrate this year’s jubilees - platinum, diamond, golden and silver jubilees. Fr Seán McNulty was the homilist at the Jubilee Mass in Dalgan Chapel. We reproduce his homily here. Dear friends, my warmest greetings to you all on this happy
- [Tapestry Weaves Story of Columban Martyrs](https://columbans.ie/tapestry-weaves-story-of-columban-missionary-martyrs/) - This week’s Tuam Herald features a story about a wonderful tapestry commissioned by a relative of Columban Martyr Fr Francis Canavan. The article is written by Mairéad O’Brien, a retired teacher and historian who has written extensively about the Columban martyrs, most recently in the July/August 2025 issue of the Far East magazine. The article explains
- [“Those Crazy Columban Colliers”](https://columbans.ie/those-crazy-columban-colliers/) - If Columban Mission is a “mad thing to do”, as our co-founder Bishop Edward Galvin once said, then there can be none more mad – nor more inspiring – than the three members of the Collier family who joined the Society, writes Fr John Boles. “When his family heard about this, they said: ‘he’s out
- [“May there be peace!”](https://columbans.ie/may-there-be-peace/) - Columban missionary Fr Barry Cairns marks the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Japan and one Catholic’s campaign for peace and reconciliation. It is 80 years since atomic bombs struck Hiroshima and Nagasaki. On 6th August 1945 at 8:15am the first of these explosions occurred killing an estimated 69,000 in Hiroshima. Then on 9th August
- [Ireland’s First ‘Interfaith Camino’](https://columbans.ie/irelands-first-interfaith-camino/) - Fr Pat Colgan was among those who took part in a recent pilgrimage walk honouring the rich religious landscape of County Meath. It brought together members of Turas Columbanus, the Irish branch of the Via Columbani Network which seeks to foster European unity around the values of St Columbanus, particularly in the communities which host
- [St Columban's message on care for creation "needed in our world and Church"](https://columbans.ie/st-columbans-message-is-much-needed-in-our-world-and-church-today/) - On the first day of the three-day international XXVI Columbanus Gathering in Carlow, which showcased the region’s spiritual, cultural and historical connections to St Columbanus, Columban Missionaries Fr Seán McDonagh and Sr Ann Gray spoke about the climate crisis and care for creation. The Symposium at St Patrick’s College Carlow, “If You Want to Know
- [HK Sunday Examiner Features Fr Michael](https://columbans.ie/hong-kong-sunday-examiner-features-fr-michael/) - Fr Josekutty Mathew CMF and Ginia Leung of the Hong Kong Sunday Examiner spoke to Columban Missionary Fr Michael Cuddigan on the occasion of his retirement from ministry after five decades. We republish their article with permission. A journey of faith and transformation “It is time to harvest my life experience,” said Fr Michael Cuddigan,
- [Columban Martyrs are a Sign of Hope](https://columbans.ie/columban-martyrs-are-a-sign-of-hope/) - In the July/August 2025 Editorial of the Far East magazine, the Regional Director in Ireland, Fr David Kenneally, writes about the anniversaries occurring this year of some of our Columbans who died violently on mission: five Columbans in Malate 80 years ago, seven in the Korean War 75 years ago, as well as Fr Thomas
- [St Columbanus' Vision and Legacy Celebrated in Carlow](https://columbans.ie/st-columbanus-vision-and-legacy-celebrated-in-carlow/) - Pope Leo sent his “heartfelt good wishes” to Bishop Denis Nulty and all participants taking part in the XXVI Columbanus Weekend from 11-13th July 2025. The three-day celebration involved pilgrim walks and talks in Carlow town and the nearby the village of Myshall, in honour of St Columbanus. In a message from Cardinal Pietro Parolin,
- [Columbanus Returns to Carlow](https://columbans.ie/columbanus-returns-to-carlow/) - St Columbanus was a man who crossed borders, both literally and figuratively. He has a message for our world in this Jubilee Year of Hope, writes Bishop Denis Nulty, ahead of the XXVI Columbanus Day gathering in Carlow from 11th to 13th of July. As the XXV Columbanus Day International Meeting came to a close
- [Columbans Featured by Church Archives Association](https://columbans.ie/columbans-featured-by-church-archives-association/) - The Association for Church Archives of Ireland (ACAI) has focused on the theme of 'charism' in its current newsletter. It looks at the origins of some of the ACAI’s religious congregations so as to learn about their foundation and their respective vocations. Founded in 1980, the Association for Church Archives of Ireland aims to promote
- [Treasure Their Testimony](https://columbans.ie/treasure-their-testimony/) - The leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland, Archbishop Eamon Martin, recalls the sacrifices made by St Oliver Plunkett, who was born 400 years ago in 1625, as well as those of the Columban Martyrs, and considers what their witness can say to us in this Jubilee Year. The final words of the late Pope
- [Credo Vocal Ensemble Perform in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/credo-vocal-ensemble-perform-in-dalgan/) - Credo Vocal Ensemble, a chamber choir based in Trim, Co Meath, hosted a concert on the eve of midsummer’s day in Dalgan Chapel. The choir specialises in a capella music of all genres from sacred to contemporary. The choir is made up of local singers under director, Judit Máté Lolas. The Ensemble was the brainchild
- [Columbans Mark UN World Refugee Day in Navan](https://columbans.ie/columbans-mark-un-world-refugee-day-in-navan/) - Fr Pat Colgan reports on an event organised by Cultúr Migrant Centre, a group which the Columbans have been supporting for many years, for World Refugee Day. “Becoming a refugee is never a choice. But how we respond is..” (António Guterres, UN Secretary-General) Each year on 20 June, the world honours the strength and courage
- [“Thank you for spending the time with us”](https://columbans.ie/thank-you-for-spending-the-time-with-us/) - It is important to record the stories, experiences and wisdom of Irish missionaries while they are still in our midst, Dr Carmel Gallagher has said. She is the author of ‘Retired Missionaries and Faith in a Changing Society’ which offers a sociological study of the Irish missionary diaspora. The book was launched at an AMRI
- [Beginnings and Endings in Korea](https://columbans.ie/beginnings-and-endings-in-korea/) - On 3rd June 2025 Korea elected Lee Jae-Myung as their new president. It marked the end of six months of political turmoil and uncertainty. The election came about when former president Yoon Suk-yol was impeached after attempting to stage a military coup last December, writes Columban Missionary Fr Donal O'Keeffe. While the coup failed, it
- [Columbans Attend St Gallen Manuscripts Exhibition](https://columbans.ie/columbans-attend-opening-of-exhibition-on-st-gallen-manuscripts/) - Columbans in Ireland attended the opening of a landmark exhibition exploring early medieval Ireland and its profound influence on Europe at the National Museum of Ireland on Kildare Street in Dublin. Titled ‘Words on the Wave: Ireland and St Gallen in Early Medieval Europe’, the exhibition was formally launched on Thursday, 29 May by the
- [Columban Greeting & Religious Cards Launched](https://columbans.ie/columban-greeting-religious-cards-launched/) - Remember a special occasion with one of our beautiful new Columban cards! We have 34 unique designs that cover every occasion from Birthdays to Baptisms, Mass Bouquets to Weddings, Get Well Soon to Exams and much more – including a beautiful card of Dalgan by Fr Pat Raleigh. For just €5 or £5, order your
- [Fr Patrick Noel O’Neill](https://columbans.ie/fr-patrick-noel-oneill/) - Fr Noel O’Neill was born in Limerick on 19th December 1932. He was educated at CBS Limerick, Ballinasloe NS, and St Joseph’s College, Ballinasloe. He came to Dalgan in 1950 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1956. Appointed to Korea, after language studies he spent time in Chollanamdo, and Mokpo before returning for a
- [Korea Mourns Fr Noel O'Neill](https://columbans.ie/korea-mourns-fr-noel-oneill/) - There has been an outpouring of sympathy in Korea following the death of Columban Missionary Fr Noel O'Neill who transformed care for people with intellectual disabilities there by establishing the country’s first community-based living facilities. Fr O'Neill died on Sunday 1st June 2025 aged 93 in St Columban's Retirement Home in Dalgan after a short
- [Matt Talbot: Columban Benefactor](https://columbans.ie/matt-talbot-columban-benefactor/) - On the centenary of the death of Venerable Matt Talbot, Fr Seán Coyle recalls this popular patron of those struggling with alcoholism who may become the first person connected with the Columbans to be canonised. Venerable Matt Talbot died one hundred years ago on 7th June 1925, which was Trinity Sunday that year. He was
- [Fr Oliver Promotes Regenerative Agriculture](https://columbans.ie/fr-oliver-promotes-regenerative-agriculture/) - Columban Missionary Fr Oliver McCrossan is a long-time advocate of natural organic regenerative farming practices. With financial support from his friends in Ireland, he has been able to increase support for training in this way of farming in the Philippines. Training in the use of natural organic liquid fertiliser-making was attended recently by key farm
- [Ecology Spaces: Laudato Si' in China](https://columbans.ie/ecology-spaces-laudato-si-in-china/) - Fr Dan Troy writes about Columban efforts to establish ecology spaces at retreat houses, pastoral centres and convents in China. Ecology workshops given in China in recent years by the Irish geologist and botanist, Dr John Feehan, placed an emphasis on combining personal experience with scientific learning and prayerful reflection. Personal experience involved going outdoors
- [Columban Fr Peter Hughes Recalls Pope Leo in Peru](https://columbans.ie/fr-peter-recalls-pope-leo-as-totally-committed-to-the-gospel/) - Pope Leo is “a person that is totally committed to the Gospel”. He is “calm, compassionate and has a great feeling for people, particularly the poor”, according to Columban Missionary Fr Peter Hughes. Speaking to BBC Radio 4 from Peru following the election of the new pontiff, Fr Peter described the 69-year-old Chicagoan as “a
- [‘Caring for the Earth and for Each Other’](https://columbans.ie/caring-for-the-earth-and-for-each-other/) - The 24th May 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis signing Laudato Si’, the encyclical on climate change and our common home that stands on millennia of Catholic teaching about creation. We mark that momentous anniversary with a video ‘Caring for the Earth and for Each Other’ from our Columban JPIC coordinator in the
- [Phones Down in Dalgan Following Lightning Strike](https://columbans.ie/phones-down-in-dalgan-following-lightning-strike/) - Dalgan suffered serious lightning damage on Tuesday 20th May. A remarkably wintry downpour in Co Meath saw a heavy hailstone shower as well as a thunder and lightning storm. As a result, the phone lines in Dalgan have been badly damaged. Unfortunately, it will take some time to repair the system and in the interim
- [Stepping Stone of Love](https://columbans.ie/stepping-stone-of-love/) - I often see poor children in Pakistan who ride to school on old motorcycles with their fathers in the mornings. These worn-out motorcycles, which look as though they could break down at any moment, carry three or four children together with their father. Younger siblings sit one in front and one behind their father, while
- [Fr Paul Presents Columban Schools Prize to Alisa](https://columbans.ie/fr-paul-presents-columban-schools-prize-to-alisa/) - Columban Fr Paul Glynn travelled to Presentation Secondary School Mitchelstown, Co Cork to present Alisa Bargelyte with her Columban Schools award. Alisa secured 3rd place in the written section. The theme of this year’s Columban Schools competition was: ‘Jubilee: Pilgrims of Hope.’ The competition attracted a record 272 entries across Britain and Ireland, the highest
- [Columban Schools Prize Presented to Marie](https://columbans.ie/fr-oliver-presents-marie-with-her-columban-schools-prize/) - Marie Gillespie of St Columba’s College, Stranorlar in Co Donegal was awarded third place in this year’s Columban Schools Media Competition in the images section. Her entry, which was titled, ‘Building Hope Peace by Piece’, is a very timely message for our strife-riven world. “I am overjoyed and honoured to receive this award. My piece
- [The Kind of Faith Pope Leo XIV Needs to End Child Abuse and Injustice](https://columbans.ie/the-kind-of-faith-pope-leo-xiv-needs-to-end-child-abuse-and-injustice/) - Having the Christian faith means believing and living the great values of justice, truth, love and equality, as well as opposing sin, as preached and practiced by Jesus of Nazareth, writes Columban missionary Fr Shay Cullen. He invites us to accept him as our friend and be his disciple who will imitate his unselfish dedication
- [Columbans Rejoice in the Election of Pope Leo XIV](https://columbans.ie/columbans-rejoice-in-the-election-of-pope-leo-xiv/) - A Missionary Church with Open Arms Statement of the Columban Missionaries on the Election of Pope Leo XIV With gratitude to God, we, the Columban Missionaries, rejoice in the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th Pope, greet him with fraternal affection, and pray for him as he begins his ministry as Bishop
- [Irish Times Editorial Praises Fr Seán's Role in Laudato Si'](https://columbans.ie/irish-times-editorial-praises-fr-seans-role-in-laudato-si/) - An Irish Times editorial on Pope Francis’ legacy on the environment has paid tribute to Columban Missionary Fr Seán McDonagh. Calling on whoever “is elected from the forthcoming conclave” to “take up the baton on climate change” it notes that part of the legacy of Pope Francis is his encyclical Laudato Si’, which embraces the
- [Columbans Welcome Summer With Barbecue in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/columbans-welcome-summer-with-barbecue-in-dalgan/) - Columbans in Dalgan gathered with the residents of the Retirement /Nursing Home on Friday of the May Bank Holiday Weekend to welcome in summer and enjoy the good weather. They enjoyed a delicious barbecue and the time together. Events such as these bring joy to the residents and are a happy moment in spite of
- [May/June 2025 Issue of the Far East Magazine](https://columbans.ie/may-june-2025-issue-of-the-far-east-magazine/) - The May/June 2025 issue of the Far East is now available both in print and digital editions. There is a range of stories from our mission projects including a piece by Fr Dan Troy about Columban efforts to establish ecology spaces at retreat houses, pastoral centres and convents in China. Columban missionary Sr Julietta Choi
- [Frs Pat and Kevin Present Prizes to St Louis Ballymena Winners](https://columbans.ie/frs-pat-and-kevin-present-prizes-to-st-louis-ballymena-winners/) - On Good Friday (18th April 2025), Columban Missionaries Frs Kevin McHugh and Pat Colgan paid a visit to St Louis’ Grammar School in Ballymena to present prizes to three winners in this year's Columban Schools Media competition, writes Fr Pat Colgan. The theme of this year’s competition was ‘Jubilee: Pilgrims of Hope’. Two of the
- [In Gratitude and Hope: Honouring the Legacy of Pope Francis](https://columbans.ie/in-gratitude-and-hope-honouring-the-legacy-of-pope-francis/) - A message from Society Leader, Fr Andrei O. Paz, SSC, on the death of Pope Francis and his how his vision inspired the Columbans and was "a profound affirmation of our way of being on mission". We, the Columban Missionaries, join our voices with people around the world in expressing our deep gratitude for Pope
- [Happy Easter from the Columbans!](https://columbans.ie/happy-easter-from-the-columbans/) - Christus surrexit! Surrexit vere, alleluja! - Christ is risen! He is risen indeed, Alleluia! May we take this opportunity to wish all our Columban family, friends, benefactors and supporters a blessed and joyful Easter. Thank you for your support for Columban Mission and Columban missionaries in the work of solidarity they undertake. May we continue
- [The Passion Narratives by Fr Kevin McHugh SSC](https://columbans.ie/the-passion-narratives-by-fr-kevin-mchugh-ssc/) - As we enter Holy Week the thoughts and prayers of Christians will centre around the events which lead up to the Passion and Death of Jesus. These are described in the Four Gospels by the Evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Most Catholics have never had the opportunity to study the Passion Narratives in the
- [Way of the Cross on the Streets](https://columbans.ie/way-of-the-cross-on-the-streets/) - Last Easter Fr Colin McLean staged a contemporary Way of the Cross. He recalls how it brought the reality of Jesus’ suffering and death to a deeper level for parishioners. In 1972, at the Cultural Centre of the Philippines in Manila, I saw my first version of the rock opera, ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, which
- [Holy Thursday’s Radical Ceremonies](https://columbans.ie/holy-thursdays-radical-ceremonies/) - Lent concludes with Holy Thursday’s ceremonies. Columban missionary Sr Kathleen Coyle reflects on Jesus’ washing of the disciples’ feet and final meal with them (Jn13:3-17). The scene was the cenacle. There were two main events; the destruction of the old model of masters and slaves, and the institution of the new model, giving one’s
- [Dalgan Hosts AGM of Turas Columbanus](https://columbans.ie/turas-columbanus-agm-in-dalgan-as-newsletter-launched/) - The first newsletter of the Via Columbani Partnership has just been launched summarising some highlights of 2024 and some of the projects for 2025 across the communities in Europe that celebrate the legacy of Saints Columbanus and Gall. The mission of the Via Columbani Partnership is to facilitate collaboration through cultural, educational, spiritual and scientific
- [In Times of Disaster – Trust!](https://columbans.ie/in-times-of-disaster-trust/) - An air of anxiety is with us. ‘Disaster’ is a word that occurs frequently in the media here in Japan. Politicians use the word when canvassing for votes. The predicted disasters include stronger and more frequent typhoons, causing surging floods and house-crashing landslides. Television news readily supplies graphic images. Seismologists predict a massive earthquake and
- [Columban Outreach to St Columban Schools](https://columbans.ie/columban-outreach-to-st-columban-schools/) - Columban Missionary Fr Pat Colgan has been promoting St Columban and the Columban Missionaries in schools named after our patron. The recent participation of the ‘Coro Gerberto’ Male Choir from Bobbio (Italy), where St Columban died, in the 2025 Bangor International Choral Competition provided an opportunity for some ‘Friends of St Columbanus’ to visit two
- [Fr Peter Anthony Hughes](https://columbans.ie/fr-peter-anthony-hughes/) - Peter Hughes was born on 9th October 1951 at Cleggan in the parish of Clifden in the Archdiocese of Tuam. He was educated at Cleggan NS and the Franciscan Secondary School in Clifden. He came to Dalgan in September 1970 and was ordained priest on 10th April 1977. Appointed to Chile, after language studies in
- [Lenten Talks in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/lenten-talks-in-dalgan/) - Over the course of Lent, the Columbans in Dalgan have been hosting a series of talks on themes relevant to the Lenten period. Last week, Bishop Tom Deenihan of Meath Diocese gave the talk and this week, Columban Fr Bobby Gilmore spoke about ‘Welcoming the Stranger. Next week’s talk will be on the support French
- [Fr Neil's College in Mandalay Severely Damaged by Quake](https://columbans.ie/fr-neils-college-in-mandalay-severely-damaged-by-quake/) - Columban Fr Neil Magill founded the Higher Education College (HEC) in Mandalay after realising that many young people in Myanmar were struggling in life and had difficulty in finding jobs. The college has been "severely damaged" in Myanmar's earthquake. You will have been shocked and distressed by the pictures on TV about the devastating earthquake
- [St Columban Booklet Translated for XXVI Columbanus Celebration](https://columbans.ie/st-columban-booklet-translated-for-xxvi-columbanus-celebration/) - In preparation for the XXVI Columbanus Day celebration from 11th July to 13th July 2025 in Carlow town, our booklet on St Columbanus has been translated into French, Italian and German. St Columbanus was born in 540 AD at the foot of Mount Leinster, Co Carlow and founded abbeys in Eastern France in Luxueil, Annegray
- [Rekindling ‘Care for the Earth’](https://columbans.ie/rekindling-care-for-the-earth/) - Columban Missionary Fr Oliver McCrossan reports on a workshop training farmers in regenerative agriculture and soil regeneration in the Philippines which he and his collaborators arranged in Misamis Oriental. Over two days in February a training workshop on regenerative agriculture and soil regeneration was held at Living Soils Farm, Sitio Kakawan, Patrocenio, Claveria, Misamis Oriental.
- [Cathal’s Journey](https://columbans.ie/cathals-journey/) - Last year Cathal King travelled to Pakistan to visit his uncle, Columban Missionary Fr Tomás King. He recounts how his travels deepened his understanding of Pakistan's complexities. The purpose of my visit to Pakistan in 2024 was to volunteer alongside my uncle, Fr Tomás King, who has worked there for over three decades. I wanted
- [Winners Announced in Columban Schools Competition 2025](https://columbans.ie/winners-announced-in-columban-schools-competition-2025/) - Winners have been announced in the Columban Schools Media competition for young people in Ireland and Britain on the subject ‘Jubilee: Pilgrims of Hope.’ The competition attracted a record 272 entries across Britain and Ireland, the highest number in the eight years the Columbans have run the competition. Young people 13-18 years were asked to
- [St Thérèse Prayer Card – A Prayer for Mission](https://columbans.ie/st-therese-prayer-card-a-prayer-for-mission/) - Last year we introduced the St Columban prayer card with the theme of peace. That prayer card has now gone to many parts of the world, a world greatly in need of peace. As a result of the huge response to the St Columban prayer card, we are now introducing the second in a series
- [Lent and St Kevin](https://columbans.ie/lent-and-st-kevin/) - Fr Tim Mulroy recalls a legend concerning St Kevin’s devotion not only to God but also to the natural world which has a special resonance for Lent. The season of Lent invites us to alternate between meditating on Jesus as he embraces his cross and going with outstretched arms to assist our neighbour in need.
- [New Issue of the Far East Magazine: March/April 2025](https://columbans.ie/new-issue-of-the-far-east-magazine-march-april-2025/) - The March/April 2025 issue of the Far East magazine is now available online and it is being posted out to subscribers. In this issue, Columban Fr Colin McLean recounts how he staged a contemporary 'Way of the Cross' last Easter. He recalls how it brought the reality of Jesus’ suffering and death to a deeper
- [All Paths Lead to Carlow St Columbanus Celebration](https://columbans.ie/all-paths-lead-to-carlow-celebration-for-st-columbanus/) - All paths lead to Carlow this July when the town hosts the XXVI Columbanus Day celebration from 11th July to 13th July 2025. This significant occasion honours St Columbanus, one of Ireland’s most influential early missionaries, recognised for his contributions to the spiritual and cultural foundation of Europe. St Columbanus, patron saint of the Missionary
- [More Coverage of Columban Martyrs in WWII](https://columbans.ie/more-coverage-of-columban-martyrs-in-wwii/) - Both the Offaly Independent and the Tuam Herald have given extensive coverage of the Columban Martyrs in recent issues. The Offaly Independent has focused on Fr Patrick Kelly from William Street in Tullamore including a piece by Mairéad O’Brien on Fr Patrick Kelly’s personal history. The Tuam Herald has focused on Fr John Heneghan and Fr
- [No Words Needed](https://columbans.ie/no-words-needed/) - Columban Lay Missionary Angie Escarsa writes about her accompaniment of a Ukrainian refugee who has been confined to a nursing home because of her health issues and has become isolated by her lack of English. “Preach everywhere you go and, if necessary, use words” (St. Francis of Assisi) As Columban missionaries we try to live
- [Malate Martyrs Featured by Meath Chronicle](https://columbans.ie/malate-martyrs-featured-by-meath-chronicle/) - "Collectively known as the 'Malate Martyrs', the Columbans chose to remain with their people throughout the savage Japanese occupation, saving the lives of many and bringing spiritual comfort to countless others. Their bravery in the face of a brutal enemy is inspiring." This is an extract of an article on the Columbans killed in the
- [Health Clinic in Pakistan Targets TB](https://columbans.ie/health-clinic-in-pakistan-targets-tb/) - The Health Clinic had been doing fine in partnership with the government. We have a continuous supply of TB medicine from them, writes Columban Lay Missionary Monalisa Esteban. Representatives from the Civil Health Office come every quarter to visit and check on the records. Peter, our lab technician once in a while is called for
- [Grounds in Dalgan Reopen After Storm Damage](https://columbans.ie/grounds-in-dalgan-closed-due-to-storm-damage/) - The grounds of Dalgan have reopened to the public after a number of trees were blown down across walking paths by Storm Éowyn. Work has been carried out to clear all paths and make sure that the public is safe. We regret any inconvenience the closure of the grounds caused but safety comes first! We
- [Migrant Journeys](https://columbans.ie/migrant-journeys/) - On a recent visit to South America, Fr Alo Connaughton spoke to two men about their experiences as migrants. In Peru, Columban missionary Fr Nguyen Xuan Tien shared about his journey from his home in Vietnam to Australia where he joined the Columbans. In Chile, Mariano shed light on the challenges migrants face. Fr
- ['Farewell' and 'Welcome'!](https://columbans.ie/farewell-and-welcome/) - A coffee morning was held in Dalgan on Wednesday 22nd January 2025 to honour Michael O’Sullivan on his retirement after more than 30 years of loyal service as a Columban Co-worker. Accompanied by his wife Brenda, Michael heard Columban Regional Director, Fr David Kenneally, as well as Fr Pat Raleigh and Sr Monica Kelly pay
- [Teaching in China](https://columbans.ie/teaching-in-china/) - Margaret Cleary recalls her experience as a teacher with AITECE at Hubei University. Some years ago, I read about AITECE’s recruitment of teachers for China in the Far East. I have always longed to work and live in China as I am fascinated by its culture and history. However, my path led to Africa where I
- [Gratitude and Hope in the Future](https://columbans.ie/gratitude-and-hope-in-the-future/) - As we stand on the threshold of a new year let us begin our journey being grateful for the past and looking forward in hope to what may lie ahead of us. The New Year is an opportune time to reflect on the year gone by and to approach the future with confidence and enthusiasm.
- [Fr Alvaro's Photographic Work Now Online](https://columbans.ie/fr-alvaros-photographic-work-now-online/) - My name is Alvaro Martinez. I am a Columban priest who has always been fascinated by photography. Through my experiences with photography, I find a connection with nature, people, and, most importantly, God and myself. Photography, a discipline that demands patience, quietness, and planning, is a transformative journey. It involves carrying heavy equipment to a
- [Documentary on Fr Noel O'Neill's Ministry in Korea](https://columbans.ie/documentary-on-fr-noel-oneills-ministry-with-those-with-special-needs/) - "I had a dream," Fr Noel O'Neill tells this uplifting KBS/Media Salt documentary. The Columban missionary recalls how he took people with special needs from the 'Beggar's Camp' in South Korea, where they were living in inhumane conditions, and challenged the accepted culture of keeping 'them' hidden. He made 'them' visible and gave them new
- [Happy New Year - ‘Lang may yer lum reek’](https://columbans.ie/happy-new-year-lang-may-yer-lum-reek/) - Columban Sr Ann Gray spent many years on mission in Hong Kong. She draws from traditions in her native Scotland and also from her adopted home in Hong Kong to wish readers a Happy New Year! Having spent many years on mission in Hong Kong, I still find myself looking forward with anticipation to celebrating
- [Praying for Peace in 2025](https://columbans.ie/praying-for-peace-in-2025/) - As we step into a new year, let us pray and commit to building a world of justice, peace, and hope. Let us be instruments of God’s peace in 2025. On the first day of every new year, the Church marks World Day of Peace. Read about Columban missionary Fr Nam Seungwon Thomas’ peace and
- ['Happy Christmas' from the Columban Leadership](https://columbans.ie/happy-christmas-from-the-columban-leadership/) - The Missionary Society of St Columban’s international leadership team encompasses the General Council of the Columban Fathers and the Columban Lay Missionary Central Leadership Team. The six members are Society Leader, Fr Andrei Paz from the Philippines, Society Vicar Fr Peter O’Neill from Australia, and General Councillors, Fr Kim Young In from Korea and Fr
- [‘We Together’](https://columbans.ie/we-together/) - Fr John McEvoy recalls his time as a missionary in Fiji and one particular outdoor Christmas project with a difference. People still ask me, “do you miss Fiji, Father?” The answer is always, “of course I do.” The reason why I miss it is not always easy to explain. However coming up to Christmas, parish
- [Presence Amid in the World’s Messiness](https://columbans.ie/presence-amid-in-the-worlds-messiness/) - Fr Tim Mulroy highlights the consoling parallel between the challenges of a frail and forgetful Columban priest and a helpless newborn baby in the manger. Even though the celebration of morning Mass for the Columban community in our house-chapel seemed like a burden for Fr Jack, he continued to add his name to the rostrum.
- [The Mystery of Christmas](https://columbans.ie/the-mystery-of-christmas/) - Some years ago, on Christmas morning, I met an old woman in an Internally Displaced Peoples (IDP) camp in Myanmar. This is her story. Three times in her life she was forced to flee for survival. Firstly, during World War II, when she was just a couple of months old, her parents had to flee
- [Korean Independence Hero Awards For Three Columbans](https://columbans.ie/korean-independence-hero-awards-for-three-columbans/) - The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs in Korea has honoured three Columbans posthumously with Independence Hero Awards. The honour was conferred on Irish Columbans Frs Patrick Dawson (1905-1989) and Thomas D. Ryan (1907-1971) and Australian Columban Fr Austin Sweeney (1909-1980). In a post on social media, the Irish Ambassador to Korea, Ambassador Michelle Winthrop
- [Support Our Christmas 2024 Appeal](https://columbans.ie/support-our-christmas-2024-appeal/) - Columban Director in Ireland, Fr David Kenneally, has recently written to supporters and benefactors as part of our 2024 Christmas Appeal. Please read his letter below: Please support the work of our missionaries by sending your donation to Fr David Kenneally, St Columban’s, Navan, Co. Meath, C15 AY2Y or visit www.columbans.ie or tel: 046 9098275.
- [Happy Christmas from Warmi Huasi!](https://columbans.ie/happy-christmas-from-warmi-huasi/) - https://youtu.be/tro0T4W8fKM A Christmas greeting to all Fr Ed O’Connell’s friends and supporters of the Warmi Huasi project in Peru. This video shows aspects of the work in Ayacucho through the reading clubs in remote rural primary schools, the children's radio programme on children’s rights goes, parenting skills for mums and dads, safeguarding for the local
- [Thank You To All Our Supporters and Friends](https://columbans.ie/thank-you-to-our-supporters/) - Wishing all of our friends, supporters, and members of the Columban family a very happy and peaceful Christmas! Thank you for supporting mission projects worldwide. Your generosity has helped transform lives by providing education, hope, and shelter to communities in need. Through your kindness, children are receiving the education they deserve, families are finding hope
- [Gift Someone a Subanen Christmas Card!](https://columbans.ie/get-your-subanen-christmas-cards/) - https://youtube.com/shorts/90QG4ZTaFvw?si=pSKtsvQx9SzJcPuL Give the gift of a handcrafted Christmas card today and support indigenous communities.
- [Support Our Columban Schools Competition 2025](https://columbans.ie/columban-schools-competition-2025-2/) - https://youtu.be/bXXTnCq3Ng0?si=UWO5GpinBQVLR8ar The Columban Missionaries invite YOU to participate in the 2024/2025 Schools Media Competition! This is your chance to showcase your creativity and make a difference. Join us now and share your vision of a community or group that's bringing hope to the world, inspired by the theme "Jubilee: Pilgrims of Hope". Get ready to
- [The Far East Speaks to Cardinal Carlos Castillo](https://columbans.ie/cardinal-carlos-castillo-of-lima-speaks-to-the-far-east-magazine/) - Former editor of the Far East, Fr Alo Connaughton, spoke to Cardinal Carlos Castillo, Archbishop of Lima, ahead of Pope Francis’ Consistory for new cardinals on 7th December 2024. Carlos Castillo was born in 1950. He was 29 years old and had a degree in sociology when he began his studies for the priesthood in
- [Greetings from Society Leader Fr Andrei Paz](https://columbans.ie/greetings-from-society-leader-fr-andrei-paz/) - On his recent visit to Ireland, Society Leader, Fr Andrei Paz, recorded this message of greeting and thanks to Columbans in Ireland, Columban co-workers, staff, benefactors and friends.
- [Advent: A Call to Open the Inn of our Hearts](https://columbans.ie/advent-a-call-to-open-the-inn-of-our-hearts/) - Advent, a unique time of waiting and preparation in the liturgical year, can mirror the anticipation Mary felt as she carried the baby Jesus in her womb, writes Columban Lay Missionary Nathalie Marytsch. For many across the world, this joyful season is marked by family gatherings, festive celebrations, planned meals, and the excitement of children
- [November is Upon Us](https://columbans.ie/november-is-upon-us/) - The glorious colours of early autumn’s fruitfulness now give way to muted tones as the last of the leaves fall from the trees, leaving the bare branches stretching heavenwards like arms lifted in supplication. The wind blows colder and the dark nights grow longer. Along with giving us a winter feel, November is a month
- [Fr Michael O’Loughlin](https://columbans.ie/fr-michael-oloughlin/) - Fr Michael O’Loughlin was born on 29th of September 1935 in Drumcliffe, Co Clare. He was educated at Convent of Mercy Ennis, CBS Ennis, and CB Secondary, Ennis. He came to Dalgan in September 1954 and was ordained priest on 21st of December 1960. In 1961 he was appointed to Korea where he would spend
- [Farewell to Fr Ray as baton passes to Fr Dave!](https://columbans.ie/farewell-to-fr-ray-as-baton-passes-to-fr-dave/) - Outgoing Regional Director of the Columbans in Ireland, Fr Raymond Husband, has paid tribute to his successor, Fr David Kenneally, and expressed his gratitude to his Columban confreres, the staff, supporters and friends as he passes the baton on after six years at the helm. Wishing Fr David the “very best”, Fr Raymond described him
- [Nine-Day Novena of Prayer to St Columban](https://columbans.ie/nine-day-novena-of-prayer-to-st-columban/) - As we approach the Feast of the great monk and pilgrim St Columban on 23rd November, we are publishing a nine-day novena of prayer and reflection which supporters, benefactors, family and friends may find helpful. This year we pray for peace in all those countries and among all those peoples affected by war. On each
- [The Best-Known Irishman of the Early Middle Ages](https://columbans.ie/the-best-known-irishman-of-the-early-middle-ages/) - St Columban’s Feast Day 23rd November In his address of a General Audience in June 2008, Pope Benedict XVI said: “I would like to speak about the holy Abbot Columban, the best-known Irishman of the Early Middle Ages. Since he worked as a monk, missionary and writer in various countries of Western Europe with good
- [Pilgrim Guests](https://columbans.ie/pilgrim-guests/) - As we prepare to celebrate the Feast of St Columban on 23rd November, we publish a piece by five Columban missionaries - Srs Virgie Mozo, Ha Suk Shin, Lucia So, Kathleen Mary Riordan and Ann Gray - who walked in the footsteps of our patron, St Columban, as part of their Centenary celebrations. “We are
- [Presentation of Inaugural Kevin O’Rourke Literary Translation prize](https://columbans.ie/presentation-of-inaugural-kevin-orourke-literary-translation-prize/) - Irish Ambassador to Korea, Michelle Winthrop, presented the inaugural Kevin O’Rourke Literary Translation prize to Nam Jeong-geun and Nam Seo-jeong in Seoul this week. The prize honours Columban missionary Fr Kevin O’Rourke’s contribution to Korean literature and culture. Commenting on social media about the inauguration of the prize, Ambassador Winthrop said it was “a special
- [Fr Kevin O’Rourke’s “Great Missionary Contribution” Remembered](https://columbans.ie/fr-kevin-orourkes-great-missionary-contribution-recalled/) - Columban Missionary, Fr Kevin O’Rourke’s “great missionary contribution” was recalled at two commemorative events which took place on the same day in Cavan Town and the Korean capital, Seoul last week. Both events were organised by the Irish Embassy in Korea. The Mass in Cavan to mark the anniversary of Fr Kevin’s death in 2020
- [Dalgan Park - Sunday Mass and Opening Hours](https://columbans.ie/dalgan-park-easter-2023/) - The grounds of Dalgan Park are currently open to the public between 10am and 4pm daily. (Winter time hours) Mass in the College Chapel in Dalgan is now open to the public again at 9:30am every Sunday. Situated three miles south of Navan on five acres of parklands and woods, Dalgan Park is the home
- [Commemoration of Fr Kevin O'Rourke at the Embassy of Ireland in Seoul](https://columbans.ie/commemoration-of-fr-kevin-orourke-at-the-embassy-of-ireland-in-seoul/) - Commemoration event at the Embassy of Ireland in Seoul honouring the life and achievements of Columban Missionary Fr Kevin O’Rourke on Thursday 17 October 2024. It was a very special occasion which brought together family, friends and colleagues of Fr Kevin to pay tribute to him, and his impact on life in Korea. Video courtesy
- [“Labour Until Evening Falls”](https://columbans.ie/labour-until-evening-falls/) - A letter written by Columban Missionary, Bishop Thomas Quinlan, dating from 12th August 1968 was recently unearthed by the Columbans in Britain. Writing from Korea, Bishop Quinlan reminisces about being one of the first fourteen Columbans to go to China in 1920. He also expresses great hopes for the future. To give readers a sense
- [Columban Schools Competition 2025](https://columbans.ie/columban-schools-competition-2025/) - The Columbans are looking for students in Ireland and Britain (aged 13-18 inclusive) to submit an original piece of writing or an original image on the theme - 'Jubilee: Pilgrims of Hope - Celebrate a community bringing hope in the world today.' For more information, watch this video and look at the competition website: https://www.columbancompetition.com/
- [PREDA: Campaigning for Children for 50 Years](https://columbans.ie/preda-foundation-campaigning-for-childrens-rights-for-50-years/) - "It is not often that a charitable organisation gets the opportunity to celebrate 50 years of service to the Filipino people," writes Columban Missionary Fr Shay Cullen, founder of the PREDA Foundation. This year is the golden anniversary of the founding of the People's Recovery, Empowerment and Development Assistance (Preda) Foundation in Olongapo City. The
- [Annual Report 2024: The Impact of Columban Mission](https://columbans.ie/annual-report-2024-the-impact-of-columban-mission/) - There is plenty of Good News in our Annual Report 2024 which shows how Columban missionaries in 15 countries around the world have, through their work and ministry, reached out, helped and supported those at the margins. Please read the report. In it our new Society Leader, Fr Andrei Paz writes: " I hope that
- [Columban Recalls Friendship with Fr Gustavo Gutierrez](https://columbans.ie/columban-recalls-friendship-with-fr-gustavo-gutierrez/) - Fr Salustino Villalobos, a Columban Missionary from Peru, who is a member of the Society's General Council, pays tribute to Fr Gustavo Gutierrez who died on 22nd October 2024 in Lima (Peru) aged 96. Fr Salustino recalls Fr Gutierrez's theology, care for the poor, friendship with the Columbans and his own meeting with the theologian
- [Columban Statement for COP16 on Biodiversity](https://columbans.ie/columban-statement-for-cop16-on-biodiversity/) - On the occasion of the United Nations’ COP16 on biodiversity in Cali, Columbia, 21st October -1st November 2024, the Columban Missionaries have issued a statement. You can read the complete statement here: https://columban.org/sites/default/files/pdf/columbans-message-on-the-un-biodiversity-cop-16.pdf
- [Columban Message on UN Biodiversity COP16](https://columbans.ie/columban-message-on-un-biodiversity-cop16/) - Amy Echeverria, Columban International Coordinator for Justice, Peace and Ecology, will represent Columban missionaries in Cali, Columbia, 21st October -1st November 2024 at the United Nations Biodiversity COP 16. She is attending as part of an international multifaith coalition of leaders. The purpose of attending these international summits is to bear witness to the global
- [Fr Neil Collins](https://columbans.ie/fr-neil-collins/) - Neil Collins was born in Swatragh, Co Derry on 5th December 1938. He was educated at Swatragh, PES and St Columb’s College, Derry. He came to St Columban’s, Dalgan Park, Navan in September 1956 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1962. Neil was appointed to study at Greyfriars College, Oxford, along with three other
- [Finding a Place to Pray](https://columbans.ie/finding-a-place-to-pray/) - Fr Paul Glynn writes about his work with the Dublin City Interfaith Forum which promotes acceptance and cooperation between the diverse religious communities that now exist in Ireland. Anyone who has had the misfortune of ending up in an overcrowded hospital emergency department in recent years probably received great kindness and care from medical staff
- [Fr William Augustine Byrne](https://columbans.ie/fr-william-augustine-byrne/) - William (‘Willy’) Byrne was born on 6th August 1936 in Annagh in the Diocese of Tuam. He was educated at Mercy Convent, Ballyhaunis, Ballyhaunis NS, and St Jarlath’s College, Tuam. He entered Dalgan Park, Navan in 1954 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1960. He was appointed to Japan the following year. After language
- [Migrants' Calls to Reduce Immigration Fees Ignored](https://columbans.ie/migrants-calls-to-reduce-immigration-fees-ignored-in-budget-2025/) - Last week Minister for Finance Jack Chambers announced a range of generous measures as part of Budget 2025. However, the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI), of which Columban Fr Bobby Gilmore was a founding member, has warned that no reduction in the €300 Irish Residence Permission (IRP) card fee charged to migrants was included. Mina
- [‘There is a Season for Everything...'](https://columbans.ie/there-is-a-season-for-everything/) - ‘There is a season for everything, a time for every purpose under heaven’ (Ecclesiastes 3:1) We human beings like to mark special moments in time – a birthday, a wedding anniversary, a golden jubilee, a centenary. This year as we, Columban Sisters, mark 100 years of missionary life, I tend to reflect on the mystery
- [Jemuel’s Story](https://columbans.ie/jemuels-story/) - Fr Vincent Busch recounts how a young Subanen man managed to escape with his life but not without injury from Jihadists in Mindanao. Thanks to the Columbans he is now recovered and a skilled Subanen Crafter. The Subanens are an indigenous people whose ancestral homeland is in the mountains of northwest Mindanao. Like other indigenous
- [Columban Sisters Celebrate 100 Years of Mission](https://columbans.ie/columban-sisters-celebrate-100-years-of-mission/) - The Missionary Sisters of St Columban gathered in St Patrick’s Church, Wicklow on Sunday 29th September 2024 to mark the centenary of the establishment as a congregation. Bishop Donal Roche of the Archdiocese of Dublin presided at the Centenary Mass which was concelebrated with Fr Aquinas Duffy, parish priest of St Patrick’s Church in Wicklow,
- [Faith Leaders Visit Dalgan After Dublin Seminar](https://columbans.ie/faith-leaders-visit-dalgan-after-dublin-seminar/) - Columban missionary, Fr Pat Colgan, who is a member of the Dublin City Interfaith Forum, writes about the recent gathering in Dublin which brought together representatives of the major faiths in Ireland and Britain and concluded with a visit to Dalgan. On 24th September 2024, a group of 17 faith leaders from the cities of
- [Changing the Narrative](https://columbans.ie/changing-the-narrative/) - World Day of Migrants and Refugees is Sunday 29th September 2024. Nathalie Marytsch has been a Columban Lay Missionary in Birmingham for more than twenty years. The call to mission has seen her accompanying refugees and diverse communities of people newly arrived in the UK. Her encounters serve as a reminder that behind the anti-immigration
- [Successful Completion of the 570km Turas Columbanus](https://columbans.ie/successful-completion-of-the-570km-turas-columbanus/) - Plans are now in motion to request the Council of Europe to grant the Turas Columbanus in Ireland, the north-south pilgrim trail across the whole island of Ireland the status of a European Heritage Trail, putting it on a par with the Camino de Santiago in Spain, and joining it up with sections of similar
- [Newly Ordained Columbans](https://columbans.ie/newly-ordained-columbans/) - On 10th April 2024, I travelled to Suva for Fr Iowane Naio’s ordination at the Sacred Heart Cathedral. The night before, Columban priests gathered with Iowane’s relatives at our Columban Mission Office for the traditional kava ceremony. Iowane entered the room, wearing a Fijian cape, and sat with his relatives. After his uncle’s inspiring speech,
- [“Peace is fragile”: Archbishop Martin on St Columban Pilgrim Walk](https://columbans.ie/peace-is-fragile-archbishop-martin-on-st-columban-pilgrim-walk/) - The leader of the Irish Church, Archbishop Eamon Martin has described St Columbanus as “a figure of unity and hope” and warned that “peace is fragile” and must be handled with care. Speaking to Columbans.ie following his participation, with the Church of Ireland Primate, Archbishop John McDowell, in the Armagh leg of the Columban Way/Turas
- [Columbans launch 2025 Schools Competition: ‘Jubilee: Pilgrims of Hope’](https://columbans.ie/columbans-launch-2025-schools-competition-jubilee-pilgrims-of-hope/) - Columban Missionaries in Ireland and Britain have launched their 2024/2025 Schools Media Competition, which has the title: ‘Jubilee: Pilgrims of Hope’. Encouraging creativity and faith engagement with issues in the world today, this year’s competition welcomes both written and image entries until 7 February 2025, with winners being announced on 10 March 2025. Two separate
- [A House of Hospitality](https://columbans.ie/a-house-of-hospitality/) - Danny Sweeney was invited by the Columbans to spend a year experiencing cross-cultural mission in Chile. This Columban ministry of hospitality to migrant communities left a lasting impression on him. “I found these at the market for you!” exclaimed Karl as he appeared in my doorway, speaking Spanish with more than a hint of
- ["We are called to live in harmony with God’s creation" - Society Leader](https://columbans.ie/we-are-called-to-live-in-harmony-with-gods-creation-society-leader/) - The Season of Creation runs from 1st September to 4th October 2024. It is a meaningful part of the Church's liturgical calendar, encouraging Christians to reflect on their connections with God, people, and the environment. This year's theme, ‘To hope and act with Creation,’ invites active engagement rather than passive waiting, drawing inspiration from the
- [Wakein Educational Centre in Myanmar](https://columbans.ie/wakein-educational-centre-in-myanmar/) - Sr Kathleen Coyle writes about Mary Man’s incredible work in Myanmar to feed and educate children in the slums of Yangon and the detrimental effect of the military coup on this project. Wakein village can hardly be called a village. It is a large depressed slum area on the outskirts of Yangon city in Myanmar.
- [‘Darkness would not be dark to you’](https://columbans.ie/darkness-would-not-be-dark-to-you/) - Last April I sowed wildflower seeds – I just raked the ground and scattered the seeds, as did the Sower whom Jesus talks about in the Gospels. As I let them go, the seeds sank into the dark earth where I would not be able to see what was happening to them. It was a
- [Thanksgiving Mass for Columban Jubilarians](https://columbans.ie/thanksgiving-mass-for-columban-jubilarians/) - On the Feast of the Assumption, 15th August 2024, Columbans celebrating their jubilees gathered in Dalgan Park for a Mass of thanksgiving. The main celebrant was Fr Bernard McDermott, who was ordained 50 years ago this year and is currently based in Britiain. The homilist was Fr Pat O'Donoghue who also celebrates his golden jubilee.
- [The Gift of Change](https://columbans.ie/the-gift-of-change/) - When we see so many people of other cultures in our churches, when we see priests and Sisters from other cultures ministering in our midst, let us give thanks to our God who gifts us with the challenge of intercultural living so that God’s kingdom may be realised in our world of conflict and change,
- [Remembering Niall](https://columbans.ie/blessed-are-the-peacemakers-remembering-niall/) - I was blessed to be a classmate and a dear friend of the late Fr Niall O’Brien. He was a wonderful person, artistic, intelligent, an excellent writer, a man of deep spirituality with an infectious sense of humour. He had a gift for learning languages and quickly became proficient in the dialect of Negros in
- [Join the Columban Way Pilgrim Walk from 17th August 2024](https://columbans.ie/join-the-columban-way-pilgrim-walk-from-17th-august-2024/) - The Columban Way/Turas Columbanus pilgrim walk takes off on Saturday 17th August 2024 from the car park at the historic ecclesiastical site of St Mullins in Co Carlow and continues all the way to Bangor, Co Down. This pilgrim journey of discovery, following in the footsteps of the inspirational 6th century monk, St Columbanus, is
- [The Usual Suspects](https://columbans.ie/the-usual-suspects/) - In the light of the current anti-immigrant disturbances, Fr Bobby Gilmore, who founded the Migrants Rights Centre Ireland, recalls an article published by The Economist over a decade ago which, even then, was trying to scapegoat immigrants. Ireland, he warns, has learned nothing from its own history of emigration. “Frightened by the downturn, people
- [Columban Ecological Institute: 'The Third Day of Creation' Course](https://columbans.ie/the-third-day-of-creation-course/) - An Tairseach and the Columban Ecological Institute host a weekend course with John Feehan from Friday 13th – Sunday 15th September 2024. In the Book of Genesis, God’s plan for the Greening of the Earth only gets two paragraphs: and they only refer to flowering plants. However, with our ever-growing human ability to understand the
- [A Priest Forever](https://columbans.ie/a-priest-forever/) - Fr Neil Collins recalls Columban martyr Fr Jack O'Brien who served as a chaplain during the D-Day landings in World War II and was subsequently killed during the Korean War. John P. O’Brien was born in Donamon, Co Roscommon on 1st December 1918. He wrote to Fr John Blowick, Director of the Columban Fathers, on
- [Farewell to the Columban Centre in Dublin](https://columbans.ie/farewell-to-the-columban-centre-in-dublin/) - Fr Pat Raleigh reports on a recent celebration of the outreach work and ministry to migrants of the Columban Centre in Dublin. On Tuesday, 23 July, at the invitation of Fr Ray Husband, Regional Director, we gathered for a coffee morning to reflect on the outreach work of the Columban Centre on Store Street, Dublin.
- [Dalgan Hosts 'Ireland and the Birth of Europe' Exhibition](https://columbans.ie/dalgan-hosts-ireland-and-the-birth-of-europe-exhibition/) - An exhibition which highlights the role played by medieval Irish scholars and missionaries, such as St Columbanus, in the early history of the European idea is currently on display in Dalgan and has been hailed by Meath County Council’s Cathaoirleach, Cllr Sharon Tolan, as “very impressive”. ‘Ireland and the Birth of Europe Exhibition’ was curated
- [Bishop Blesses Statue and Mural of Columban Martyr](https://columbans.ie/korean-bishop-blesses-statue-and-mural-of-columban-martyr/) - An article from the Catholic Peace Newspaper in Korea on the blessing and unveiling of a statue of Columban martyr Fr James Maginn as well as a large mural depicting his life at the site of his martyrdom by Bishop Cho Kyu-man. Translated by Fr Donal O’Keeffe. At the blessing-unveiling of the Fr James Maginn
- [Fr Patrick Egan](https://columbans.ie/fr-patrick-egan/) - Fr Pat Egan was born in Ballybrehony, Claremorris, Co Mayo to James and Mary Egan. He was educated in Ballyfarna NS and St Colman’s College, Claremorris, Co Mayo. He came to Dalgan in 1953 when made his permanent aggregation as a Columban on 29th September 1957. He was ordained in St Columbans Dalgan Park on
- [New Booklet from Fr Malachy Available on our Website](https://columbans.ie/new-booklet-from-fr-malachy-hanratty-available-on-our-website/) - Columban missionary Fr Malachy Hanratty, who spent most of his missionary life in Japan, has published a new booklet titled: ‘Luke Helping Us to Listen in Prayer’. It is free to download from our website. Please download it here: LUKE HELPING US TO LISTEN IN PRAYER Writing in the Introduction, Fr Malachy explains: “Vatican II
- [Floods Damage Myitkyina's Rehabilitation Centre](https://columbans.ie/floods-damage-rehabilitation-centre-in-myitkyina/) - “We were all safe and well,” writes Columban missionary Fr Eamon Sheridan from Myanmar where torrential rain resulted in the mighty Irrawaddy River breaking its banks and damaging the buildings at the Rebirth Rehabilitation Centre in Myitkyina. ‘Don’t you care, we are going to drown’ (Mt 8:25) At 2am on Monday morning 1st July
- [40 Years Later](https://columbans.ie/40-years-later/) - To mark the 40th anniversary of the release of the Negros Nine and the 20th anniversary of the death of Fr Niall O’Brien, Fr Donal Hogan recalls a miscarriage of justice in the Philippines and the RTE reporter that made the Columban missionary a household name. On 3rd of July 1984 Frs Niall O’Brien, Brian
- [Joy as Three Columbans Ordained to the Diaconate](https://columbans.ie/joy-as-three-columbans-ordained-to-the-diaconate/) - On 29th June 2024, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, as well as being the founding anniversary of the Missionary Society of St Columban, three young Columban missionaries were ordained to the diaconate. The ceremony took place at Cathedral Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception/ Myeongdong Cathedral, Seoul (Korea). Bishop Job Koo
- [Columban Schools Winners Published in the Irish News](https://columbans.ie/columban-schools-2024-winners-published-in-the-irish-news/) - Winners of this year’s Columban Schools Media competition in Ireland were delighted to be featured in a recent issue of the Irish News. The national daily published the winning article by Clíodhna McKeever, a Year 11 pupil at St Catherine’s College, Armagh. It also published the winning image - 'The Earth is the Lord's’ by
- [The Bread of Life](https://columbans.ie/the-bread-of-life/) - The struggle of any missionary is to give effective aid to those who are in need. Yet, it is sometimes difficult to determine how best to aid others. In the 1990s when I was a seminarian, a man came knocking on the door of our Columban house. He wanted to speak to a priest. I
- [Fr Noel Daly](https://columbans.ie/fr-noel-daly/) - Fr Noel Daly was born on 25th December 1940 in Tullamore, Co Offaly. He was educated at Mercy Convent, Tullamore, CBS Tullamore and St Finian’s College, Mullingar. He came to Dalgan in September 1958 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1964. Noel was assigned to Korea and served there for the next nineteen years.
- [Fr John Marley](https://columbans.ie/fr-john-marley/) - Fr John Marley was born in Belfast on 11th January 1927. He was educated at St Patrick’s PES, St Comgall’s PES and St Malachy’s College, Belfast. He came to St Columban’s, Navan in September 1944 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1950. John's first appointment was to postgraduate studies in Rome where he was
- [Columbans Elect First Society Leader from the Philippines](https://columbans.ie/columbans-elect-first-society-leader-from-the-philippines/) - It is with great joy and after a period of prolonged discernment, prayer and many conversations and dialogues in the Spirit, the Society’s General Assembly in Peru elected Fr Andrei Paz to the role of Society Leader for a period of six years. The election our first Society Leader from the Philippines is a historic
- [Up to 400 Attend Cemetery Sunday in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/up-to-400-columban-relatives-attend-cemetery-sunday-in-dalgan/) - Up to 400 Columban relatives braved the rain and the cold to attend Cemetery Sunday on 9th June 2024 in Dalgan. Fr Jim Fleming from CastleIsland Co Kerry was the principal celebrant at the Mass, after which the graves of our Columban deceased were blessed. Fr Jim ministered in the Philippines, Pakistan and in Britain.
- [Heroic Columban Recalled at D-Day Commemoration](https://columbans.ie/heroic-columban-martyr-recalled-at-d-day-commemoration/) - The leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland has spoken of the Christian witness of Columban missionary and martyr Fr John (Jack) O’Brien at a special 80th anniversary D-Day Commemorative Service in France. Archbishop Eamon Martin was joined by the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh, Archbishop John McDowell at the Royal Irish Regiment Service
- [A People in Love](https://columbans.ie/a-people-in-love/) - Out of 3,558 Catholic churches in the Philippines, more than 800 have the Blessed Virgin Mary as their titular patron. She is a familiar face in almost every Catholic home. Her image or the rosary grace markets, buses, cars, jeepneys, boats and even motor cabs. Mary is Ang Mahal na Ina – the Beloved Mother.
- [Fr Padraig Presents Award to Loreto Clonmel Winner](https://columbans.ie/fr-padraig-makes-presentation-to-loreto-clonmel-winner/) - Last Friday Fr Padraig O’Donovan visited Loreto Clonmel to make a presentation to Roise Curtin who is one of this year’s winners in the Columban Schools Media Competition. Roise secured third place in the images section. Fr Padraig writes: Thank you to Martina Williams who met me on my arrival, welcomed me and brought me
- [The Common Good](https://columbans.ie/the-common-good/) - Fr Ed O’Connell considers why so many voters in different parts of the world today feel such apathy and argues that we must all discern how to play an active part in society. It certainly has become a small world! I was talking recently, on Zoom, with young adults from the parish where I worked
- [Fr Owen O'Kane Recalled at Dalgan Presentation](https://columbans.ie/fr-owen-okane-remembered-at-dalgan-presentation/) - At a recent event in Dalgan recalling the life and ministry of Columban Fr Owen O’Kane, his niece Kathy O'Kane Delargy recalled how the people of Ballymun described him as having “nothing, he gave it all away”. She was reflecting on the life of the frugal missionary for a presentation on some of his memorabilia
- [Are We Destroying the Oceans?](https://columbans.ie/are-we-destroying-the-oceans/) - The collapse of our oceans will spell disaster for all life on this planet, warns eco theologian Fr Sean McDonagh. In 2021, Rosamond Naylor an American economist who focuses on global food security and sustainable agriculture calculated that the amount of fish consumed in the world had doubled since 1998. Some marine scientists today believe
- [Columban Schools Winner is a Young Man of Many Talents](https://columbans.ie/columban-schools-winner-is-a-young-man-of-many-talents/) - Fr Pat Colgan visited St Louis’ Ballymena to present Conn Fyfe with his prize for second place in this year’s Columban Schools Media competition. Fr Pat heard Conn’s Head Teacher Ms O’Neill and his RE teacher Ms Shauna Pickering praise his example as Head Boy, and highlight the numerous and heavy responsibilities, such as speech-giving,
- [Columbans Gather in Peru for General Assembly 2024](https://columbans.ie/columbans-gather-in-peru-for-general-assembly-2024/) - The leaders of the various Regions and Mission Units in the Missionary Society of St Columban, along with some elected delegates and designated others, have gathered in Lima, the capital of Peru for a General Assembly. This is an event held every six years. Delegates are tasked with reviewing what has happened in the past
- [Donation to Dalgan Nursing Home from Korean Visitors](https://columbans.ie/donation-to-dalgan-nursing-home-from-korean-visitors/) - Columban Fr Brendan McHale writes about a recent visit to Dalgan by a group of leaders from the Korean Language Programme and their gift to the Nursing Home in Dalgan. The Korean student programme began in 1992 with twenty university students spending a month of their summer vacation in UCD refining their English speaking level.
- [Nanfeng and the Columbans](https://columbans.ie/nanfeng-and-the-columbans/) - Fr Dan Troy writes about Nanfeng, a small corner of China that is forever Columban, where three of our missionaries worked in the parish and are now featured in the parish church’s stained glass windows. Two years ago, as restrictions around Covid-19 were being relaxed in Jiangxi province in China, the Catholics of Nanfeng parish
- [Columban Competition: read the winning article and admire the winning images](https://columbans.ie/columban-competition-read-the-winning-article-and-admire-the-winning-images/) - Students aged 13-18 were invited to produce a piece of writing or create an image on the topic ‘Biodiversity Matters’ for the 2024 Columban Schools Media Competition. Their work had to demonstrate an awareness and an understanding of the issue of biodiversity and highlight people, communities and/or organisations trying to build a sustainable future. Protecting
- [Sleacht as Idir Dhá Shaol /An extract from Between Two Worlds Le /by Pádraig Ó Murchú](https://columbans.ie/sleacht-as-idir-dha-shaol-an-extract-from-between-two-worlds-le-by-padraig-o-murchu/) - Le caoinchead ó / With permission from Coiscéim (coiscéim.ie) agus / and Leo Ó Murchú Rugadh an t-údar i gContae Chiarraí, oirníodh ar 20 Nollaig 1967 agus d’éag sa Choiré ar 4 Meán Fómhair 2020. The author was a Columban priest from County Kerry, ordained on 20 December 1967, who died in Korea on 4
- [Fr Cyril Addresses 1,000 Students as Prize is Presented](https://columbans.ie/fr-cyril-speaks-to-1000-students-as-schools-prize-is-presented/) - Fr Cyril Lovett visited Le Chéile Secondary School in Tyrrelstown to present Keelin Bellemand with her prize for her second place in this year’s Columban Schools Media Competition on the theme ‘Biodiversity Matters’. Keelin’s teacher, Ms Elaine Cowley, encouraged students to enter this year’s competition and she also facilitated the presentation on Friday 3rd May
- [Historic Day: First Columban from Myanmar Ordained](https://columbans.ie/historic-day-first-columban-from-myanmar-ordained/) - The feast of St Joseph the Worker, 1st May 2024, was a historic day for the Columban Missionaries as Francis Xavier Nbwi la Aung from Myanmar, was ordained priest at St Luke's Church, Edin, Myitkyina, Kachin State, Myanmar. He is the first Columban from Myanmar to be ordained. The Columbans began missionary work in Burma
- [Fr Niall O’Brien’s Enduring Influence](https://columbans.ie/fr-niall-obriens-enduring-influence/) - Fr Niall O'Brien’s influence is enduring and still bearing fruit in the places he served, writes his friend Hannah Carter. We were so blessed to meet Fr Niall O'Brien in May of 1997 while he was still in Bacolod. It was my first trip to the Philippines along with our son, Joseph. His dad, Larry,
- [Remembering Fr Niall O’Brien on his 20th Anniversary](https://columbans.ie/remembering-fr-niall-obrien-on-his-20th-anniversary/) - Fr Niall O'Brien, the Irish Columban missionary who was wrongfully imprisoned in the Philippines by the Marcos regime in the 1980s, died twenty years ago on 27th April 2004. According to his former classmate and friend, Fr Cyril Lovett, Fr Niall’s major contribution was to a theology of non-violence, spelled out in his three published
- [Preda Offers a Safe Home to 90 Children](https://columbans.ie/preda-offers-a-safe-home-to-90-children/) - For 50 years, the Preda Foundation has rescued, protected, healed and empowered abused and trafficked girls, saved innocent boys from unjust incarceration in jails, and given a new life through residential care services with therapy and education. Preda Founder Fr Shay Cullen updates on the Foundation’s work in 2023. This is a project that is helping
- [First Official Walk of the Columban Way in Ireland](https://columbans.ie/first-official-walk-of-the-columban-way-in-ireland/) - The AGM of the Turas Columbanus Association at Dalgan Park unveiled plans for the first official walk of the full length of the Columban Way route from Myshall in Co Carlow to Bangor in Co Down this autumn. According to Niamh Byrne, who was elected at the AGM to the Turas Columbanus committee, the walk
- [Manila’s ‘Beacon of Hope’](https://columbans.ie/manilas-beacon-of-hope/) - Fr John Boles speaks to Lydio Mangao Jr about how Columban seminarians are bringing hope to one of Manila’s most notorious slums. “This’ll be a real eye-opener”, Lydio told me, and he wasn’t joking. Lydio Mangao Jr is a Columban seminarian from the Philippines. He lives in our House of Studies in Manila and attends
- [Retirement is the Golden Era of Life](https://columbans.ie/retirement-is-the-golden-era-of-life/) - Following a long period in recovery after hip surgery, I finally succumbed to medical advice to formally retire to the Columban Nursing Home in Dalgan, writes Columban Missionary Fr Michael O'Loughlin. Prior to that I had been enjoying helping out in my local parish and enjoying a game of golf. This all came to a
- [Fr Iowane Naio ordained a Columban missionary priest](https://columbans.ie/fr-iowane-naio-ordained-a-columban-missionary-priest/) - On 10th April 2024 Fr Iowane Ilaidoko Naio was ordained a Columban missionary priest in the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Suva, Fiji. Fr Iowane has been appointed to the Pakistan Mission Unit, and is due to arrive there on 1st December 2024. He is the third of ten children of Mr Isake Amoka of
- [Fr Iowane Has Many Strings to his Bow](https://columbans.ie/fr-iowane-has-many-strings-to-his-bow/) - Our newest Columban missionary priest has already lived many different lives, writes Fr Frank Hoare. Fr Iowane Naio speaks five languages and has lived in five different cultures and will soon add to that. But his roots are in Namau Settlement about 10 km from Ba town on the Western side of Viti Levu,
- [Summer School 2024 with Dr John Feehan](https://columbans.ie/summer-school-2024-with-dr-john-feehan/) - The theme of this year’s summer school, an initiative of the Columban Ecological Institute and An Tairseach, is 'The Third Day of Creation'. It will be given by Dr John Feehan between Monday 27th May – Friday 31st May 2024. In the Book of Genesis, God’s plan for the Greening of the Earth only gets
- [“He is not Here”](https://columbans.ie/he-is-not-here/) - Easter reflection by Fr John McEvoy on Scripture passages Acts 10:34, 37-43; Col 3:1-4; Jn 20:1-9 Some years ago, I visited the Holy Land, and one stand out moment was the Shrine of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Pilgrims from all over the world visit an empty tomb, which bears a note at its entrance
- ["Christ is the Life of the Rejected"](https://columbans.ie/christ-is-the-life-of-the-rejected/) - Twelve months ago, the Far East magazine had a striking picture of a young man, stripped down and tied to a cross in Fiji, while soldiers in mock cardboard uniforms alternately derided and worshipped him. It came from a Good Friday liturgy I had led. I commented then: “this ‘Good Day’ will remain in my
- [Columban Schools 2024 Competition Winners](https://columbans.ie/winners-announced-in-columban-schools-competition-biodiversity-matters/) - Winners have been announced in the schools media competition for young people run by the Columbans in Britain and Ireland. This year’s theme was ‘Biodiversity Matters.’ The announcement day - 21 March - is the UN’s International Day of Forests. Young people 13-18 years were asked to produce a piece of writing or image that
- [Easter Reflection from the Far East Magazine](https://columbans.ie/easter-reflection-from-the-far-east-magazine/) - Let Him Easter in Us The song, ‘The Dance of the Cherry Trees’ by John Spillane sets the tone for Spring, New Life and Easter whereby the “cherry tree puts on the most outrageous clothes” and sings and dances saying, “we have travelled all around the sun that has taken a whole year” and that
- ["No Cross, No Crown"](https://columbans.ie/no-cross-no-crown/) - As Easter approaches, Fr John McEvoy recalls his years spent in the Gold Mines Parish of Vatukoula which he has “always considered as the happiest years of my missionary life in Fiji”. Back in 1981, as Easter approached, dark clouds of industrial strife also loomed on the horizon as a major strike of the
- [Columbans Pay Tribute to Charlie Bird](https://columbans.ie/columbans-pay-tribute-to-charlie-bird/) - As veteran RTE journalist Charlie Bird is laid to rest, Columban missionary Fr Donie Hogan recalls meeting him in the Philippines when he covered the story of the Negros Nine. Fr Donal Hogan first met Charlie Bird in Bacolod City on the island of Negros in the Philippines in 1984. The RTE reporter was covering
- [A Spring Day in Dalgan with John Feehan](https://columbans.ie/a-spring-day-in-dalgan-with-john-feehan/) - On Saturday 4th May 2024, join Dr John Feehan for ‘A Spring Day in Dalgan’. This year will focus on mosses and ferns, which were among the first to leave the safety of the water and venture on to dry land. If you wish to attend, please contact Elizabeth Mc Ardle at devofficemail@gmail.com. The cost
- [The Spiritual Journey of St Patrick](https://columbans.ie/the-spiritual-journey-of-st-patrick/) - Fr Maurice Hogan writes about the development of Patrician studies in recent years and the Columban contribution to this, notably Fr Aidan Larkin’s book, ‘The Spiritual Journey of St Patrick’. The middle of the twentieth century witnessed a revolution in the study of St Patrick. It served to awaken a renewed interest in his person
- [The Key to My Own Home](https://columbans.ie/the-key-to-my-own-home/) - It is forty-two years since Fr Noel O’Neill began the Emmaus project for those with special needs in South Korea. He provides a snapshot of some of those the project has helped. A phone call from Seoul. It was Pak Hyun Sen wishing me a happy birthday. In the post there was a birthday card
- [Reflections of a Retiring Formator](https://columbans.ie/reflections-of-a-retiring-formator/) - As he comes to the end of his term overseeing the formation of Columban seminarians, Fr Frank Hoare explains how being in this community with students from Fiji and Kiribati helped his spirituality. It’s the closest I will ever get to feeling like a father! As I approach the end of seven years as a
- [Tribute to Subanen Crafter Who Died in Childbirth](https://columbans.ie/subanen-crafters-mourn-andonie-who-died-in-childbirth/) - Fr Vincent Busch pays tribute to Andonie, one of the four original Subanen Crafters in the Philippines, who died recently in childbirth. On 13th February2024, Andonie, one of the four original Subanen Crafters, died in childbirth. She died in her hut, on a remote hillside, in the middle of the night. Her husband, Golyo, was with her.
- [Risking All for Christ](https://columbans.ie/risking-all-for-christ/) - As the Columban Sisters open their centenary year, Sarah Mac Donald speaks to Congregational Leader Sr Anne Carbon about her life as a missionary and the challenges ahead. “To be a Columban you need to be a risk-taker,” Sr Anne Carbon states matter-of-factly. Twenty-seven years after she made her First Profession, she is now at
- [Could Climate Change Plunge Europe into an Ice Age?](https://columbans.ie/could-climate-change-plunge-europe-into-an-ice-age/) - Even though 2023 was the hottest year for 100,000 years, climate change may paradoxically plunge Europe into an Ice Age warns eco theologian and Columban missionary Fr Sean McDonagh. In February 2024 the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that 2023 was the hottest year on record. The temperature was 1.45 degrees Celsius warmer
- [Warmi Huasi Marks 20 Years of Service to Peru's Youth](https://columbans.ie/warmi-huasi-marks-20-years-of-service-to-perus-children-and-adolescents/) - Warmi Huasi, the NGO founded by Columban missionaries in Peru, has published its annual report highlighting its work for 2023 and marking 20 years of service to vulnerable Peruvian children and adolescents. This project empowered communities North of Lima in the Districts of Carabayllo and San Martin de Porres and in Ayacucho (Province of Páucar
- [Columban leaders welcomed at Birmingham Mosque](https://columbans.ie/columban-leaders-welcomed-at-birmingham-mosque/) - Columban leaders from Hong Kong - Fr Brian Vale (Vicar General of the Columbans) and Sainiana Tamatawale (Columban Lay Missionaries Central Leadership Team) - joined the Columban Inter Religious Dialogue team in Britain last week to visit the Birmingham Central Mosque, writes Mauricio Silva, Columban Inter Religious Dialogue Coordinator in Britain. Archbishop Bernard Longley of
- [I Revered Fr John Smyth](https://columbans.ie/i-loved-and-revered-fr-john-smyth/) - Columban Fr John Smyth died earlier this year. A younger Columban, Fr Kwon Taemoon, recalls the influence the Irish missionary had on him – “he was like a real grandfather to me” - and his long service to the Korean faithful. Fr John Smyth became the parish priest of Tobong-dong in Seoul in 1985. I
- [Fr Shay and Preda Celebrate 50th Anniversary](https://columbans.ie/fr-shay-celebrates-50th-anniversary-of-preda/) - For 50 years, the Preda Foundation has been a leading child rights organisation with a long successful history of rescuing, protecting, healing and empowering abused and trafficked girls, saving innocent boys from unjust incarceration in jails, and giving a new life of freedom through residential care services with therapy and education. The Preda Foundation operates
- [The Mountain Man](https://columbans.ie/the-mountain-man/) - Born and raised in the mountains of Peru, Columban missionary Fr Salustino Villalobos now finds himself serving God’s people in the mountains of Taiwan, writes Fr John Boles. The Holy Spirit is a great mover. In the Bible, the Spirit moves Jesus from Galilee to Jerusalem, and the Apostles from Jerusalem to “the ends of
- [Mission in Chile: Columban Seminarian Joseph Park Yosup](https://columbans.ie/mission-in-chile-columban-seminarian-joseph-park-yosup/) - Columban seminarian Joseph Park Yosup from Korea talks about embracing vocation and mission in Chile. "I met Christ in the hearts of the parents who lost their children; I met Christ in the people's hearts of people selling food on the street. And I also met Christ in the innocence of children and the youth.
- [Update On The Threat to Manuel Duato School](https://columbans.ie/update-on-the-threat-to-manuel-duato-school/) - Fr Ed O’Connell writes about the largest special needs school in Peru, which the Columbans have been involved in for almost 50 years, and which has been threatened with closure by the Ministry for Education’s decision to put a halt to funding. The Special Needs School Manuel Duato was founded in 1976 by two
- [Three Columban Seminarians Appointed to Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/three-columban-seminarians-appointed-to-pakistan/) - Three Columban seminarians have been appointed to Pakistan for their First Missionary Experience (FMA). They will live there for two years from 1 August 2024 – 31 May 2026. The seminarians are from the Philippines, Myanmar and Korea, according to Fr Liam O’Callaghan, Columban Mission Unit Coordinator in Pakistan. Currently eight Columbans from four different
- [Columban Schools Media Competition Through the Years](https://columbans.ie/columban-schools-media-competition-through-the-years/) - Join us in celebrating the power of creativity and storytelling in the Columban Schools Media Competition. Since its inception in 2018, this competition has been a platform for young minds to showcase their talent and perspective through media. Explore the diverse themes that have inspired incredible stories over the years. From 'Climate Change' to 'Tackling
- [Another Busy Year for the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland](https://columbans.ie/another-busy-year-for-the-migrant-rights-centre-ireland/) - The Migrant Rights Centre Ireland, which works to advance the rights of migrant workers and their families at risk of exploitation, social exclusion and discrimination, had another busy year according to new figures for 2023. The non-governmental organisation has strong Columban links. Fr Bobby Gilmore is a founding member of MRCI and a long-standing board
- [A Prayer for Peace in Troubled Times](https://columbans.ie/a-prayer-for-peace-in-troubled-times/) - The Columbans in Ireland have launched a new peace initiative which seeks St Columban’s intercession amid the increased conflict around the world. A prayer card invoking St Columban's help has been printed and is being made available for distribution to those who are willing to pray for peace and to promote this prayer for peace.
- [Josh's Invitation to Mission](https://columbans.ie/joshs-invitation-to-mission/) - Last summer Josh Egan from Co Tipperary took part in the Society’s Invitation to Mission programme and travelled to Chile to learn about Columban mission there. He writes about some stand-out moments during his time there. I am currently a full-time student studying adapted physical activity for people who have disabilities at Munster Technological University.
- [Thank you from the Columban Sisters](https://columbans.ie/thank-you-from-the-columban-sisters/) - As the Columban Sisters open their centenary year, Congregational leader Sr Anne Carbon thanks all supporters and benefactors who have accompanied them over the past 100 years.
- [Celebrating 100 Years of the Missionary Sisters of St Columban](https://columbans.ie/celebrating-100-years-of-the-missionary-sisters-of-st-columban/) - Celebrating 100 years of the Missionary Sisters of St Columban is one of the most significant milestones for me since I joined the Congregation 27 years ago. Reflecting on what our Centenary means for us as a Congregation, my thoughts were immediately directed to our Founders: Fr John Blowick and Mother Mary Patrick Maloney. I
- [Columban Witness in Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/columban-witness-in-pakistan/) - I am writing this crouched under a lazy ceiling fan, dripping with sweat and staring out at the squalid, chaotic, dust-blown bedlam that is Karachi, the biggest city in Pakistan. You might ask, “Who in their right mind would choose to live and work in such an area?” The answer is: the Columbans. For over
- [Wishing You Many Blessings for the New Year!](https://columbans.ie/wishing-you-many-blessings-for-the-new-year/) - As I look back at the year just ended I do so with mixed feelings. The violence of recent months and the loss of life in the Israel-Gaza conflict and the ongoing war in Ukraine fill me with sadness. I can only pray that the guns of war will fall silent, and the voices of reason
- [Fr Gerald Joseph French](https://columbans.ie/fr-gerald-joseph-french/) - Gerald (‘Gerry') Joseph French was born on 6 August 1937 in Mayo Abbey, Co Mayo. He was educated in Facefield NS and St Colman’s College, Claremorris. He came to Dalgan in September 1956 and was ordained priest on 21 December 1962. He was appointed to Korea, to Chunchon Diocese in 1963 where he worked until
- [The Birth of Jesus](https://columbans.ie/the-birth-of-jesus/) - As we prepare for Christmas, Fr Malachy Hanratty invites readers to ponder the birth of our Saviour by reading Luke’s Gospel. Joseph and Mary set out in trust Let us increase our thanks and pray for courage as we think about Joseph and Mary setting out in trust into the unfamiliar and unknown. I pause
- [Happy Christmas from the Columbans in Ireland!](https://columbans.ie/happy-christmas-from-the-columbans-in-ireland/) - As the Christmas season envelops us in warmth and reflection, the Columbans in Ireland extend heartfelt gratitude to all of you - our dedicated Columban benefactors, supporters, and partners in mission. Your unwavering generosity has been the driving force behind the numerous achievements of our Columban projects throughout the year. We look forward to working
- [Fr Frank O’Kelly](https://columbans.ie/fr-frank-okelly/) - Fr Frank O’Kelly was born in Derry, on 27th September 1935. He was educated at Clady NS, St Eugene’s and St Columb’s, Derry. He came to St Columban’s, Dalgan Park in September 1954 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1960. Frank was appointed to the Philippines and to the Zambales Region of that country.
- [Happy Christmas from the Columbans in Japan!](https://columbans.ie/happy-christmas-from-the-columbans-in-japan/)
- [Fr Cathal Vincent Gallagher](https://columbans.ie/fr-cathal-vincent-gallagher/) - Cathal Gallagher was born on 23rd July 1951 in Garrison, Co Fermanagh. He was educated at Devenish PS, at St Michael´s Grammar School, Enniskillen, and at Queen´s University, Belfast before he joined An Garda Síochána in 1970. Cathal served as a Garda in Navan before joining the Columbans in 1973. He did Overseas Training in both Chile and Peru.
- [Reflection for December 2023](https://columbans.ie/reflection-for-december-2023/) - As I reflect in our small Columban community of three sisters living in the heart of Mandalay, Myanmar’s second largest city, the words of the hymn, ‘Longing for light, we wait in darkness’ come to mind. We live in a situation where this longing for light is very real and where both the longing and
- [The Christmas Crib](https://columbans.ie/the-christmas-crib/) - After witnessing a touching encounter between some young children and the Infant Jesus in the manger, Fr Kevin Fleming suggests parishes should make their Christmas Crib as accessible as possible. Last year I spent Christmas in my hometown of Ferbane, Co Offaly with my brother and his wife. Spending Christmas in the village you grew
- [An Taisce Honours Fr Seán McDonagh](https://columbans.ie/an-taisce-honours-fr-sean-mcdonagh/) - Columban missionary, Fr Seán McDonagh, has been honoured by An Taisce for his contribution to the organisation and in recognition of his past work as President of the charity which works to conserve Ireland's natural environment and built heritage. The non-governmental organisation is marking its 75th anniversary this year and as part of those celebrations
- [Twenty-first Century Mission](https://columbans.ie/twenty-first-century-mission/) - A Christian world and a world yet to be evangelised. That situation no longer exists. The people who have not yet heard the gospel no longer live in non-western countries. They are everywhere especially in huge urban areas. In large cities new paradigms are needed. We are not in Christian times. (Pope Francis) In his
- [Columban Statement on COP28: We Cannot Give Up!](https://columbans.ie/columban-statement-on-cop28-we-cannot-give-up/) - On the occasion of the United Nations’ COP28 on climate change in Dubai, UAE, (30 November – 12 December), Columban missionaries express our solidarity with people who bear the heaviest burden of climate change and with the earth itself. Columban Vicar General, Fr Brian Vale, says, “God has not given up on reminding us of
- [St Columbanus Prayer Service for Peace in Middle East & Ukraine](https://columbans.ie/st-columbanus-prayer-service-for-peace-in-middle-east-ukraine/) - In recent months and weeks we have seen the faces of people scarred by war, forced to leave their homes. As we begin the Advent season, in preparation for Christmas, you are invited to come together as part of an online community that cries out for peace in the face of so much war and
- [New Website Launches on St Columban's Day](https://columbans.ie/new-website-launches-on-st-columbans-day/) - On the Feast Day of St Columban, 23rd November, we are delighted to unveil our new regional website for the Columbans in Ireland. The new website will provide visitors who wish to learn more about the Missionary Society of St Columban, its history and its ministries, clearer and more easily navigated content. It also incorporates
- [COP28: Humans are Putting Life on Planet Earth Under Siege](https://columbans.ie/cop28-humans-are-putting-life-on-planet-earth-under-siege/) - Ahead of COP28 in the United Arab Emirates, Columban missionary Fr Sean McDonagh calls for binding forms of energy transition. Recently, an international group of scientists published a report in the magazine BioScience saying that “the Earth’s ‘vital signs’ are the worst in any time in human history.”[1] This is an astonishing claim, especially, since
- [Synodality: Retrieving the Richness of our earlier Christian Tradition](https://columbans.ie/synodality-retrieving-the-richness-of-our-earlier-christian-tradition-2/) - Fr Tom O’Reilly provides some important insights and historical context on the Synodal Process. Purpose of the Universal Synod The basic meaning of synodality is ‘journeying together,’ walking together on a path. The Synod logo is basically an image of people ‘on the way.’ The purpose of the universal Synod announced by Pope Francis is
- [Synodality : A Missionary Reflection](https://columbans.ie/synodality-a-missionary-reflection-2/) - Submission from Columban Missionaries in Ireland Conscious of our need to be open to the guiding Spirit, we listened in our meetings as each of us shared some experiences of lived synodality, and also some of the things that had hindered it, in our lives and missions to date. ‘When I am weak, then I
- [A Synod that made a Difference](https://columbans.ie/a-synod-that-made-a-difference/) - Columban missionary Fr Kevin O'Boyle worked for many years in Santiago, Chile. He spoke to Fr Alo Connaughton about a synod that radically changed and reinvigorated the Church there. Q: There is a lot to talk in Church circles these days about a synod. Many years ago, you participated in an interesting one. A: Yes,
- [Synodality 4: Responding to Our Baptismal Call](https://columbans.ie/synodality-4-responding-to-our-baptismal-call/) - Columban lay missionary Jao Resari believes Synodality calls the faithful to become active participants in mission and to address clericalism and exclusion in the Church. When I joined the Columban Lay Missionaries (CLM), I was 24 years old. My first mission assignment was in Taiwan and my ministry was in the field of HIV and
- [Synodality 5: Mission and Synodality](https://columbans.ie/synodality-5-mission-and-synodality/) - Mission is one of the three themes proposed for the Universal Synod in 2023, along with Communion and Participation. Columban Fr Hugh MacMahon explains how the Synodal Process has a deep missionary dimension to it. When Cardinal Mario Grech, General Secretary of the Synod of Bishops, addressed the Irish bishops in September 2021, he began by
- [Synodality 6: Young People - Voices on the Margins?](https://columbans.ie/synodality-6-young-people-voices-on-the-margins/) - James Trewby, Columban Justice and Peace Education Worker in Britain, provides some reflections from a young adult synodal conversation. During the strange ‘lockdown’ times much of my work as Columban Justice and Peace Education Worker in Britain went online. Each week, often working collaboratively with Pax Christi’s Education worker, I facilitated multiple Zoom-based communities, helping
- [Synodality 7: A Different Church](https://columbans.ie/synodality-7-a-different-church/) - Fr Patrick McMullan considers why Pope Francis is promoting synodality and highlights the dramatic shift in the global Catholic population thanks to missionary activity over the past 100 years. The Catholic Church has, over the last 100 years, undergone a complex shift in its population distribution, and consequently its institutional identity and place in the
- [Synodality 8: Interfaith Synodality](https://columbans.ie/synodality-8-interfaith-synodality/) - Fr Patrick McInerney is the Director of the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations in Australia. He explains why Interfaith Synodality needs to be put into practice. Ever since his election, Pope Francis has been promoting synodality as the path “which God expects of the Church of the third millennium”. The word synodality comes from the
- [Synodality 9: Synodality and Formation for Mission](https://columbans.ie/synodality-9-synodality-and-formation-for-mission/) - Columban missionary Fr Frank Hoare spoke to the Federation of Conferences of Catholic Bishops of Oceania (FCBCO) earlier this year. Synodality and formation for mission were two of the three major themes of the bishops’ assembly along with the effects of a changing climate on the oceans. This is a shortened version of Fr Hoare’s
- [Synodality 1: The Synodal Path](https://columbans.ie/synodality-1-the-synodal-path/) - Launching the Far East’s new series on Synodality, Fr Tom O’Reilly explains how walking and discerning together and listening attentively to each other are at the heart of the synodal process. We are familiar with adversarial debate in our parliamentary systems. The government is expected to present policies and pursue its agenda with vigorous determination.
- [Synodality 2: A Church Synod](https://columbans.ie/synodality-2-a-church-synod/) - The Synod Pope Francis has convoked is a Church synod, Fr Sean McNulty emphasises. It is a forum for listening to everybody’s experience of discipleship with compassion and tenderness. I am hoping that the Synodal Pathway will provide the Church with an opportunity to put in place processes that would see the Church becoming a
- [Synodality 3: Participation - Making Space for Grace](https://columbans.ie/synodality-3-participation-making-space-for-grace/) - Columban Fr Paul McMahon is a counsellor at the Survivors of Trauma Centre in Belfast, which he describes as “a safe environment in which to heal, grow and encounter. A place where our traumas can be transformed through making space for Grace”. The theme of the upcoming 16th Synod of Bishops in October 2023 is,
- [Pilgrims for Christ](https://columbans.ie/pilgrims-for-christ/) - Columban missionary Sr Ann Gray writes about this year’s Columban’s Day gathering in the Swiss city of St Gallen, named after one of the 12 monks who left Bangor monastery in Co Down with St Columban in the 6th century as ‘Pilgrims for Christ’. ‘Whether we are Franks, Irish or Britons, we are members of
- [The Columban Ireland-Asia Residence](https://columbans.ie/the-columban-ireland-asia-residence/) - The Columban Ireland-Asia Residence is a “welcoming community”, located in a house in Maynooth. It caters to Sisters, priests and lay leaders, mainly from China, who are doing language studies and third level courses at nearby St Patrick’s College Maynooth. The project is a way for Columbans to show our continuing support for the Church
- [We Who Grieve](https://columbans.ie/we-who-grieve-2/) - November is the month of the Holy Souls when we pray for our dear departed. We Columbans also pray for our deceased members at Cemetery Sunday Mass in June. We are joined at the cemetery in Dalgan Park by the families of those Columban Fathers who have died. After Mass we have a chance to
- [Novena to Prepare for the Feast of St Columban](https://columbans.ie/novena-to-prepare-for-the-feast-of-st-columban/) - We invite those who wish to prepare for the Feast of St Columban on 23rd November to participate in this Novena between 14th – 22nd November. It includes prayers, a litany and quotations. The complete novena booklet can be downloaded in pdf format here: NovenaSt.Columban Prayer for Peace in the Middle East and Europe O
- [Old Growth Sprouting Progress](https://columbans.ie/old-growth-sprouting-progress/) - Columban missionary Fr Oliver McCrossan visited the parish community of Pitogo in Zamboanga del Sur in the Philippines to see how they are replanting their mangrove forest as part of their commitment to care for the earth. Since the 1970s, the Columban Fathers, religious and lay, have held hands with the community of Pitogo and
- [Fr Michael James Dodd](https://columbans.ie/fr-michael-james-dodd/) - Michael (Mike) Dodd was born on 25 January 1937 at Drumming, Ardagh, Co Longford. He was educated at Edgeworthstown NS and St Mel’s College, Longford. He entered Dalgan in September 1955 and was ordained priest on 20th December 1961. Appointed to Korea in 1962, after language studies he spent his first term in Chindo, in
- [Subanen Christmas Cards On Sale!](https://columbans.ie/subanen-christmas-cards-on-sale/) - Christmas cards created by the indigenous Subanen community in the Philippines, long renowned for their crafting traditions, are now available. By purchasing these cards you are showing your support for the Subanen people, who face eviction from their homes by logging and mining companies. Columban missionary Fr Vincent Busch has worked with the Subanen community
- [Missionary Society of St Columban Annual Report 2021](https://columbans.ie/missionary-society-of-st-columban-annual-report-2021/) - The Society's Annual Report for 2021, with updates from every region, has been published. You can read it here: SSC Annual Report 2021
- [Subanen Christmas cards are on sale!](https://columbans.ie/subanen-christmas-cards-are-on-sale/) - We are pleased to inform supporters that the Christmas cards created by the indigenous Subanen community in the Philippines, long renowned for their crafting traditions, are once again available to buy. By purchasing these cards you are showing your support of the Subanen people, who face eviction from their homes by logging and mining companies.
- [Missionary Society of St Columban Annual Report 2022](https://columbans.ie/missionary-society-of-st-columban-annual-report-2022/) - The Society’s Annual Report for 2022, with updates from every region, has been published. In this year's report, Society Leader, Fr Tim Mulroy, writes: As I reviewed the materials for the 2022 Annual Report of the Columban Missionaries, the image from the Gospel that sprang to mind was that of a mustard seed, which Jesus
- [Columban Jubilees in 2022](https://columbans.ie/columban-jubilees-in-2022/) - Celebrating the jubilees of many wonderful Columban missionaries in 2022. We rejoice with: 75 Years Sr Joan O’Donovan Peru, Chile, Ireland Platinum 70 Years Sr Rose Dineen Korea, USA Fr Michael Doohan Philippines, Ireland Fr Cyril Murphy Japan, Britain, Ireland Sr Eileen Roe Peru, Ireland Diamond 60 Years Sr Amy Baybay Korea, USA Fr Joseph
- [Fr Martin Koroiciri talks about his work in Chile](https://columbans.ie/fr-martin-koroiciri-talks-about-his-work-in-chile/) - Columban missionary Fr Martin Koroiciri is a native of Fiji. Since November 2022 he has been ministering at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Iquique, Chile. He is currently establishing a new parish - Our Lady of Mount Carmel - that will serve the community of migrants who have come to the area looking
- [The Declaration of Human Rights is for All](https://columbans.ie/the-declaration-of-human-rights-is-for-all/) - December 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of the publication of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, writes Fr Shay Cullen. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was approved and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution 217A at its 3rd session in Paris on 10th December 1948. The world was torn and destroyed
- [Fr Michael John McGuire](https://columbans.ie/fr-michael-john-mcguire/) - Michael John McGuire was born in Limerick on 10 June 1944. He was educated at Clarecastle NS, CBS Limerick and St Kieran’s, Bray. He joined the Christian Brothers and spent four years at the Training College in Marino, Dublin. He then spent two years teaching in Ferns. In 1968 he applied to join the Columbans
- [Life Under Siege](https://columbans.ie/life-under-siege/) - Instead of pursuing war and the slaughter of thousands of people around the world we should be focused on the impact humans are having on the planet, writes Fr Sean McDonagh. Each day on our television screens hundreds of millions of people from all parts of the world watch as bombs and artillery explode in
- [A Return to China](https://columbans.ie/a-return-to-china/) - Last June Columban missionary Fr Kevin O’Neill returned to the Chinese city of Wuhan where he lived 11 years ago. He writes about some of the changes of the intervening years and the special Columban connection with this part of China. My last visit to China was five years ago and I last lived here
- [Fr Bobby Signs Irish Residence Permit Petition](https://columbans.ie/fr-bobby-signs-irish-residence-permit-petition/) - Columban Missionary Fr Bobby Gilmore was one of 14,500 signatures on a public petition organised by the Fair Fees Campaign Group which was handed to the Minister for Justice recently asking her to reduce Irish Residence Permit Card fees. The Fair Fees campaign group is made up of migrant workers and international students, who are
- [Columbans and World Mission Sunday 2023](https://columbans.ie/columbans-and-world-mission-sunday-2023/) - World Mission Sunday 22nd October 2023 “A life unlike your own can be your teacher” – St Columban At this time when so many communities in the Middle East, Ukraine and elsewhere around the world are convulsed by conflict, diversity is often seen as a challenge to be met rather than an opportunity to be
- [Fr Cyril Praises "enriching" Columban Way of Life](https://columbans.ie/i-cant-think-of-any-other-way-of-life-that-would-be-so-enriching/) - Retired editor of the Far East, Fr Cyril Lovett, was recently interviewed by SouthEast Radio’s ‘Morning Mix’ programme about the Columbans, life as a missionary, and the Far East magazine. Asked about his decision to become a Columban missionary, Fr Cyril told the presenter, "I can't think of any other way of life that would
- [Two Old Monks](https://columbans.ie/two-old-monks/) - Khaing Khaing Mon (Nicole Wong), a teacher and editor at HEC Magazine in Mandalay Archdiocesan Higher Education College pays tribute to Columban missionary Fr Neil Magill. As it is my day-off today, my thoughts wander. I start to miss two old monks. One is a Buddhist monk. The other is a Catholic priest. Both of
- [An Autumn Day in Dalgan 2023](https://columbans.ie/an-autumn-day-in-dalgan-2023/) - An Autumn Day in Dalgan with Dr John Feehan takes place on Saturday 21st October 2023. It opens in the Conference Hall, St Columban’s, Dalgan at 9.30am and continues until 4.00pm. The theme is 'Exploring What Lies Beneath'. Autumn is a time not only of leaf fall, shortening days and the fading of floral colour,
- [Columban Centenarian](https://columbans.ie/columban-centenarian/) - Sarah Mac Donald speaks to 101-year-old Sr Bríd Kenny about missionary life in Korea and her memories of co-founders of the Columban Sisters, Fr John Blowick and Mother Mary Patrick. Sr Bríd Kenny from Coolmeen in Co Clare joined the Missionary Sisters of St Columban on 9th April 1942. She got to know the Sisters
- [Fr Ed O’Connell speaks on mission and missionaries](https://columbans.ie/fr-ed-oconnell-speaks-on-mission-and-missionaries/) - Columban missionary Fr Ed O’Connell, who is celebrating the golden jubilee of his ordination, was one of four speakers who addressed a webinar on mission and missionaries hosted by the international Catholic weekly, The Tablet. Titled, ‘Hearts on Fire, Feet on the Move’, Fr Ed, who returned recently to Britain after working in Peru, was
- [Award winning journalist Mick Clifford interviews Fr Dan Troy](https://columbans.ie/award-winning-journalist-mick-clifford-interviews-fr-dan-troy/) - Irish author and award-winning investigative journalist Mick Clifford who is currently working as a special correspondent with the Irish Examiner studied Engineering with Columban missionary Fr Dan Troy at UCC. They both graduated in 1988. After working for three years as a civil engineer Dan felt called to missionary priesthood and so left the building
- ["EPA should be ashamed of itself for deleting red meat tweet"](https://columbans.ie/epa-should-be-ashamed-of-itself-for-deleting-its-tweet-on-red-meat/) - The Environmental Protection Agency should be ashamed of itself for deleting its tweet on red meat. An independent assessment was commissioned by Friends of the Earth in September 2023 on Ireland’s recent ecological record. The experts gave the Irish government a C+ for moderate success in dealing with climate change.[1] They gave a mere 4
- [What Photography Has Taught Me About Prayer](https://columbans.ie/what-photography-has-taught-me-about-prayer/) - My name is Alvaro Martinez, and I am a Columban priest who has always been fascinated by photography. Through my experiences with photography, I find a connection with nature, people, and, most importantly, God and myself. Nature photography requires patience, quietness, and planning. It involves carrying heavy equipment to a location and waiting for nature
- [Joy as Two New Columban Deacons Ordained](https://columbans.ie/joy-as-two-new-columban-deacons-ordained/) - Rev Iowane Naio from Fiji Islands and Rev Francis Xavier La Aung Nbwi from Myanmar were ordained to the diaconate last Saturday in the Columban International Theologate House in Cubao, Quezon City in the Philippines. Francis Xavier is the first Kachin permanent member of the Missionary Society of St Columban. According to Fr Eamon Sheridan
- [The Other Nine/Eleven](https://columbans.ie/the-other-nine-eleven/) - Fr Alo Connaughton spoke to Fr Pat Egan about that fateful day in Chile’s history when the military, led by General Augusto Pinochet, seized power in a coup, overthrowing the Popular Unity government of President Salvador Allende. Fr Pat Egan remembers Chile’s 9/11 well. The ‘Eleventh’ (El Once) can mean only one thing: the coup
- [Columban Season of Creation Prayer Service](https://columbans.ie/columban-season-of-creation-prayer-service/) - The Columban Season of Creation Prayer Service 2023 brought a sense of community and communion with each other, God, and all of creation among those who took part. We hope that flows through the days and weeks ahead. You can watch it here:
- [Columbans Launch Schools Media Competition: Biodiversity Matters](https://columbans.ie/columbans-launch-schools-media-competition-biodiversity-matters/) - The Columban Missionaries in Ireland and Britain announce the launch of their latest Schools Media Competition 2023-2024 which has the title: ‘Biodiversity Matters’. The launch is taking place during the first week of the Season of Creation when Christian communities around the world focus on valuing and protecting God’s creation. A core aspect of Columban
- [Missionary Society of St Columban Annual Report](https://columbans.ie/missionary-society-of-st-columban-annual-report/) - The Missionary Society of St Columban’s Annual Report for 2022-23 has just been published. Society Leader, Fr Tim Mulroy writes: As I leafed through this Annual Report and reflected on Columban mission during this past year, I was struck by the multiple cords of concern and collaboration that stretch across our world, bringing help, healing
- [Reflection September/October 2023 Far East: All Are Welcome](https://columbans.ie/reflection-september-october-2023-far-east-all-are-welcome/) - These days, I live a life of deep happiness in Pakistan, appreciative of many small things. Before I arrived, I was worried about the weather, living in a different culture with different food, and a new community life. But then I realised I was focusing only on my fears. After recognising this, I decided to
- [Season of Creation](https://columbans.ie/season-of-creation/) - The theme for 2023 Season of Creation is: Let Justice and Peace Flow. The Prophet Amos cries out: “But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!” (Amos 5: 24) The Genesis text tells us that human sin destroys our relationship with God, severs human bonds and disfigures creation. We must
- [The Columban Way: a Route to Jubilee 2025](https://columbans.ie/the-columban-way-a-route-to-jubilee-2025/) - Cristian Colombo writes about the completion of the Columban Way in Italy and its recognition by the Italian Tourist Board. It all began with a dream. St Columban’s mother dreamt that the sun descended into the womb of a woman and that this sun in turn escorted the world out of darkness. She dreamt
- [‘Let justice and peace flow' is the theme for Season of Creation 2023](https://columbans.ie/let-justice-and-peace-flow-is-the-theme-for-season-of-creation-2023/) - This year’s theme for Season of Creation is ‘Let justice and peace flow’. It invites communities to share their hopeful vision for creation. A sense of urgency prevails due to the escalating consequences of climate change and the rapid loss of biodiversity, which exacerbate inequalities and affect lives on every continent. And yet, as we
- [Cross Cultural Mission from the Windy City to Fiji](https://columbans.ie/cross-cultural-mission-from-the-windy-city-to-fiji/) - Society Leader, Fr Tim Mulroy, reflects on his recent visit to Holy Family Parish in Fiji. Even though it was my first time to visit to Fiji, my short stay in Holy Family Parish in Labasa felt like a homecoming! Situated among the sugarcane plantations, I arrived at the small, regional airport on a forty-minute
- [AITECE looks forward to renewed activity in 2022](https://columbans.ie/aitece-looks-forward-to-renewed-activity-in-2022/) - The Volunteer Teachers for China, a Columban-sponsored programme also known as AITECE, has been facing a number of challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Hugh MacMahon explains. The teachers who never left China were allowed to stay on but those who left for vacation have had trouble returning. Three Irish teachers are waiting to hear
- [Interest in Teaching in China Revives](https://columbans.ie/interest-in-teaching-in-china-revives/) - Now that Covid is fading into the background, interest in teaching in China has revived. Enquiries are coming in about the Volunteer Teachers for China, a Columban-sponsored programme also known as AITECE, with requests for updates on a number of concerns. Is it safe? There are concerns about both the medical and political situation. Covid has not
- [Year of Vocation Launch](https://columbans.ie/launch-of-the-year-of-vocation/) - The launch of the Year of Vocation and Vocation Sunday will be marked with a special Mass on Saturday 29th April 2023 at 6pm in the Carmelite Church, Whitefriar Street, Dublin, celebrated by Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly. This is an opportunity to give thanks for your own vocation whatever that vocation may be and to pray
- [Columban Ecological Institute Summer School](https://columbans.ie/columban-ecological-institute-summer-school/) - The Columban Ecological Institute’s 2023 Summer School which will be held at An Tairseach in Wicklow Town. The theme of the six-day residential summer school retreat is ‘Every Bush Aflame – Pollination and Pollinators'. It will be given by Dr John Feehan. Booking is essential. It takes place from Monday 17th July to Saturday 22nd
- [Cemetery Sunday 2023](https://columbans.ie/cemetery-sunday-2023/) - Ten minutes walk from Dalgan’s front door, in the eastern corner of the grounds, is the Columban cemetery. Here more than 350 Irish Columbans, including our two co-founders, Bishop Edward Galvin (died February 1956) and Fr John Blowick (died June 1972), are buried, writes Fr Cyril Lovett SSC. One side of the graveyard contains a
- [Archbishop to Launch Book on St Patrick by Fr Aidan Larkin](https://columbans.ie/primate-of-all-ireland-to-launch-book-on-st-patrick-by-columban/) - We are delighted that the leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland, Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh, will launch, ‘The Spiritual Journey of St Patrick’ by Columban missionary Fr Aidan Larkin in Dalgan on 30th May 2023 at 7pm. Fr Aidan died in 2019. He was working on ‘The Spiritual Journey of Saint Patrick’ at
- [Join the Columban Way Pilgrimage in Britain](https://columbans.ie/join-the-columban-way-pilgrimage-in-britain/) - Columban Missionaries in Britain are celebrating Laudato Si’ Week by following in the footsteps of St Columban and reflecting on ‘the cry of the Earth and the cry of the poor’. A pilgrim group of ordained and lay Columban missionaries and co-workers, led by Regional Director, Fr John Boles, are walking from Padstow to Fowey
- [Columbanus Summer Festival in Clonard](https://columbans.ie/columbanus-summer-festival-in-clonard/) - The annual Columbanus Cultural and Heritage Summer Festival is due to take place on Saturday 2nd September 2023 in Clonard, Co Meath. This is the third year of the festival which is aimed at empowering local communities to take responsibility for the promotion, development and celebration of the Columban Way in their area. The objective
- [Man With a Mission](https://columbans.ie/man-with-a-mission/) - Fr John Boles profiles Columban Missionary Fr Tony Coney whose work with disadvantaged children in a poor area of the Peruvian capital, Lima, has transformed many young lives. “For me, life began at 40,” laughs Fr Tony Coney, remembering how he arrived in Lima on the 30th August, the Feast Day of the city’s patron,
- [A Lifetime of Challenges](https://columbans.ie/a-lifetime-of-challenges/) - “Please pray for us” is a familiar request from Li Qiong’s mother when I visit the family every two weeks in their simple apartment in a densely populated area of Wuhan, writes Fr Dan Troy. Their home is located a short walk from the Yangtze River. The request for prayer is expressed from within a
- [Celebrating 70, 60 and 50 Years of Columban Outreach](https://columbans.ie/celebrating-70-60-and-50-years-of-columban-outreach/) - Fr Pat Raleigh reports on the celebration of jubilees in Dalgan on 15th August 2023 which marked 70, 60 and 50 years of Columban outreach and missionary priesthood, while in the Philippines two Columbans celebrated their silver jubilees. Celebrations of Jubilees are very happy and joyful occasions, particularly this year. Due to Covid we were
- [Engaging in Interreligious Dialogue](https://columbans.ie/engaging-in-interreligious-dialogue/) - Columban Lay Missionary Nathalie Marytsch explains how her faith has changed and what she has learned through interreligious dialogue in Britain. Engaging in interreligious dialogue (IRD) is both a joy and challenge in my experience as a lay missionary in Britain. As well as witnessing to my own faith and way of life, I am
- [Justice and Peace Network “is needed more than ever before”](https://columbans.ie/justice-and-peace-network-is-needed-more-than-ever-before/) - The Justice and Peace Network “is needed more than ever before” a former British Minister of State at the Foreign Office and Labour MP told participants attending the annual National Justice & Peace Network conference in Derbyshire. Sarah Mac Donald, Editor of the Far East magazine, attended the conference on behalf of the Columbans in
- [Proverbs in Mission](https://columbans.ie/proverbs-in-mission/) - Proverbs are the ancient wisdom of a country’s culture expressed in pithy sentences – and often with humour. Proverbs provide missionaries with an insight into how their adopted people think and act, writes Columban missionary Fr Barry Cairns. To an aged person (I am over 90) this proverb gives me courage. “Even an old rope
- [Signing the Columban Charter of Partnership - Bishop Nulty](https://columbans.ie/signing-the-columban-charter-of-partnership-bishop-nulty/) - Writing on the Kildare & Leighlin diocesan website, Bishop Denis Nulty recalls his trip to St Gallen in Switzerland earlier this month where he attended ceremonies for the XXIV Columbanus Day 2023. At the heart of the ceremonies this year was the signing of a Charter of Partnership. Columbanus had never been to San Gallen
- [Columban Sisters Visit Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/columban-sisters-visit-dalgan/) - Fr Pat Raleigh was one of the Columban Fathers who welcomed 20 Columban Sisters from Magheramore to Dalgan on Tuesday, 18 July 2023. He reports on a day of welcome and shared memories. The rainy weather did not dampen the spirits. The 20 Columban Sisters from Magheramore community arrived in Dalgan at around 11.30am in
- [Remembering Fr Charles Cullen: the First Columban to Die in China](https://columbans.ie/remembering-fr-charles-cullen-the-first-columban-to-die-in-china/) - This year marks the 100th anniversary of the death of Fr Charles Cullen, the first Columban buried in China. On 13th July, the family of Fr Charles will commemorate the centenary of his death with Mass in Dungiven, Co Derry. Members of the Columbans in Ireland and China will attend that special commemoration with Fr
- [Fr Frank Hoare celebrates Jubilee Mass in Portlaoise](https://columbans.ie/fr-frank-hoare-celebrates-jubilee-mass-in-portlaoise/) - Family and friends joined Columban missionary Fr Frank Hoare in his native Portlaoise when he celebrated Mass to mark the golden jubilee of his ordination. I celebrated a thanksgiving Mass in my native Portlaoise for a lifetime of missionary work in multi-cultural Fiji on 10th June 2023. I was blessed with help from Fiji. Two
- [Where are the Ideals?](https://columbans.ie/where-are-the-ideals/) - The plight of hundreds of migrants floundering and drowning in the Mediterranean in the past week and efforts to rescue them paled in comparison to the efforts made by governments to rescue five tourists in a submersible in the vicinity of the Titanic, writes Fr Bobby Gilmore. Planes and boats are scrambled to save
- [Éire Vedanta Society Returns to Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/eire-vedanta-society-returns-to-dalgan/) - Last weekend Dalgan Park welcomed members of the Éire Vedanta Society for their first visit since the pandemic. The group was led by Swami Purananda and was welcomed to the home of the Columbans in Ireland by Fr Pat Raleigh. A religious/spiritual society that teaches the universal philosophy of Vedanta, the Ramskrishna Vedanta Centre has
- [Elderly Columban Missionaries Say 'Thanks!'](https://columbans.ie/elderly-columban-missionaries-say-thanks/) - Elderly Columban missionaries, who have worked overseas on mission for many years, express their gratitude to benefactors, whose support has enabled them to retire to Dalgan Park, Ireland. Video produced by Columban Mission Images.
- [Fast Fashion Fuels Climate Change and Poisons Our World](https://columbans.ie/fast-fashion-fuels-climate-change-and-poisons-our-world/) - We must buy less clothes Fr Sean McDonagh warns as he highlights the impact of fast fashion on our waste crisis, on those who work in the industry, and the climate cost of producing plastic-based textiles. Research published In May 2023 by the University of Exeter’s Global System Institute in Britain and Nanjing University in
- [Reflection in May/June 2023 Far East](https://columbans.ie/reflection-in-may-june-2023-far-east/) - “All our cares and troubles cease, as we kneel with love before You ...” Since the month of May and Marian devotion go hand in hand, in this reflection, we pay a personal visit to the Marian Shrine in Knock. There we find our blessed Mother watching for us, waiting for us, always supremely welcoming.
- [Fr Pat Colgan Presents Awards to 2023 Competition Winners](https://columbans.ie/fr-pat-colgan-presents-awards-to-2023-competition-winners/) - Columban missionary Fr Pat Colgan has been visiting and presenting some of the awards to winners in the 2023 Columban Schools Media competition. Young people aged 13-18 years were asked to produce an article or image that demonstrated an awareness and understanding of conflict in the world today, addressing the subject ‘Building Peaceful Futures’. This
- [Fr Noel O’Neill bids 'good luck' to Special Olympics athletes](https://columbans.ie/fr-noel-oneill-bids-good-luck-to-special-olympics-athletes/) - Columban Fr Noel O’Neill bid farewell and good luck to Special Olympics athletes who will represent South Korea at the Special Olympics World Summer Games which take place in Berlin, Germany from 17th to 24th June. Over 7,000 Special Olympics athletes and Unified partners from approximately 190 countries will compete in 26 sports. The athletes
- [Over 400 relatives attend Cemetery Sunday in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/over-400-relatives-attend-cemetery-sunday-in-dalgan/) - Over 400 relatives of deceased Columbans attended Cemetery Sunday in Dalgan Park on Sunday 11th June 2023. The Mass was celebrated by Fr Donal Hogan with Columbans in Ireland concelebrating. The Prayers of the Faithful were led by Ciaran Murray. His Columban uncle was Fr Tommy Geraghty who worked in China and the Philippines. The
- [Martyr to a House Divided](https://columbans.ie/martyr-to-a-house-divided/) - The Korean War ended seventy years ago, but memories of the victims are still fresh. Amongst those who died was Columban martyr Fr Jim Maginn. Fr John Boles visited Korea to learn more about his story. Panmunjeom must rank as one of the world’s most bizarre tourist attractions. Every morning, convoys of brightly coloured sightseeing
- [The Laws of War](https://columbans.ie/the-laws-of-war/) - The Cáin Adomnáin is known as the ‘Geneva Accords’ of the ancient Irish and it is Europe's first human rights treaty, writes Columban missionary Fr Dermot Carthy. The 20th century saw two world wars in one generation, and a lot of conflicts in which countless millions were killed, maimed and forced into exile. Mankind is
- [Fr Aidan’s book broadens our vision of St Patrick – Archbishop](https://columbans.ie/fr-aidans-book-broadens-our-vision-of-st-patrick-archbishop/) - The leader of the Irish Church has paid tribute to the late Fr Aidan Lakin’s research on St Patrick saying it has helped broaden his vision of the saint and helped him to see St Patrick in a new context. In his address as he formally launched, ‘The Spiritual Journey of St Patrick’ in Dalgan
- [Giving Life a New Home](https://columbans.ie/giving-life-a-new-home/) - New life in the form of new people bring new ideals of energy, creativity and inspiration writes Columban missionary Fr Bobby Gilmore, as he expresses concern over hostility towards destitute people on the move. It was summertime and the rivulet had changed its course leaving a small pool stagnant with no water passing through. The
- [Fr Brendan Hoban](https://columbans.ie/fr-brendan-hoban/) - Brendan Hoban was born in Castlebar, Co Mayo on 27th June 1946. He was educated by the Mercy Sisters, Castlebar, De La Salle Brothers NS and St Jarleth’s College, Tuam. He came to Dalgan in September 1964 and was ordained priest on 11th April 1971. Appointed to Korea, after initial language studies he took up
- [Fr Donal Nicholas Bennett](https://columbans.ie/fr-donal-nicholas-bennett/) - Donal was born in the Parish of Drumragh, Omagh, Co Tyrone on 28th October 1932. He was educated at St Mary’s, Killyclogher, and CBS Omagh and entered Dalgan in 1954. He was ordained priest on 21st December 1960. Donal was appointed to the Philippines and after studies in language and culture was assigned to Zambales
- [Migrants and Asylum Seekers Arrive with Invisible Wounds](https://columbans.ie/migrants-and-asylum-seekers-arrive-with-invisible-wounds/) - Migrants and asylum seekers arriving in our community come with invisible wounds left by violence and persecution in their home countries, writes Cynthia Gonzalez of the Columban border ministries in the US. Their wounds get cut even deeper by the other traumatising situations they experience along their journey, including gang violence, hostile environmental conditions, and
- [Columban Pentecost](https://columbans.ie/columban-pentecost/) - As the Church prepares for Pentecost on Sunday 28th May 2023, Fr Donal McIlraith considers the Columban Pentecost which has seen between one and two thousand priests, brothers and Lay Missionaries, like Peter, speaking foreign tongues and bringing the good news of the risen Jesus for over 100 years. Pentecost comes from a Greek word
- [Godfather of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Warns of Dangers](https://columbans.ie/godfather-of-artificial-intelligence-ai-warns-of-dangers/) - At the beginning of May 2023, Geoffrey Hinton, often portrayed as the godfather of artificial intelligence (AI), quit his job and warned about the developments in that technology, writes Columban missionary, Fr Seán McDonagh. His pioneering work and research on neural networks and deep learning paved the way for the current systems such as ChatGPT.
- [Columban Sisters Elect New Leadership Team](https://columbans.ie/columban-sisters-elect-new-leadership-team/) - The Missionary Sisters of St Columban elected a new congregational team at their General Assembly in Knock, Co Mayo. The new Congregational Leader is Sr Anne Carbon from the Philippines. The leadership team is Sr Margaret Murphy, Sr Josephine Hong and Sr Cho Young Mi who were elected on 25th April 2023. A group of
- [Fr Liam O'Callaghan and the Health Welfare Project in Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/fr-liam-ocallaghan-and-the-health-welfare-project-in-pakistan/) - Columban missionary Fr Liam O'Callaghan speaks about the Health Welfare Project in Lahore (Pakistan) and the role of health worker George Taj whom Fr Liam has collaborated with for many years. Fr Liam writes: The Health Welfare Project takes place at the Pakistan Society for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled (PSRD) Trust hospital in Lahore.
- [Are We Running Out of Water?](https://columbans.ie/are-we-running-out-of-water/) - The theme for this year's Earth Day, 22nd April 2023, was ‘Invest in our Planet.’ Real investment will not happen if we are unclear about what the current environmental problems are, warns Columban missionary Fr Sean McDonagh. In August 2021, the 6th Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reported that the only
- [Easter celebrations at Holy Trinity Church in Xiantao](https://columbans.ie/easter-celebrations-at-holy-trinity-church-in-xiantao/) - By mid-afternoon on Holy Saturday, there was already a steady hum of activity at Holy Trinity Church in Xiantao, about 100 km west of Wuhan, writes Columban missionary Fr Dan Troy. Food was being prepared for those who had travelled long distances two days earlier and had already stayed for two nights in the pastoral
- [Jubilee Celebration for Dalgan Class of 1973](https://columbans.ie/jubilee-celebration-for-dalgan-class-of-1973/) - On Saturday 22nd April 2023, the Dalgan class of 1973 celebrated the 50th anniversary of their ordination to the priesthood. While celebrations also took place in Fiji and the Philippines, here in Ireland three Columbans came together to celebrate the happy anniversary. The three were Frs Jim Fleming, Gerry Neylon and Declan McNaughton. They gathered
- [World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation](https://columbans.ie/world-day-of-prayer-for-the-care-of-creation-2/) - The Missionary society of St Columban is hosting a prayer service on World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation to mark the beginning of the Season of Creation. The gathering will also include the launch of the new Columban podcast series - Season 2 of Jubilee for the Earth, which is focused on
- [Columbanus Festival celebrates 'Clonard and St Finnian'](https://columbans.ie/columbanus-festival-celebrates-clonard-and-st-finnian/) - Come along to Clonard, County Meath on Saturday 17th September from 10.30am - 3.30pm for the end of Summer Columbanus Festival that celebrates 'Clonard and St Finnian'. The one-day Festival takes place at St Finnian’s Church in Clonard A83 AR26. Registration will commence at 10.30am and the event will begin at 11.00am with a talk on
- [An Autumn Day in Dalgan With Dr John Feehan](https://columbans.ie/an-autumn-day-in-dalgan-with-dr-john-feehan/) - During our Autumn Day 2022 we will explore again some of the wonders of this season of mists and mellow fruitfulness. We will look again with attentive eyes at leaf fall and autumn colour, and the production of fruits and seeds for next year’s growth. But this year we hope to look at little more
- [Building Peaceful Futures: Columban Schools Media Competition](https://columbans.ie/building-peaceful-futures-columban-schools-media-competition/) - The Columban Missionaries in Ireland and Britain are proud to announce the launch of their latest Schools Media Competition which this year has the title: Building Peaceful Futures. It is launched on World Peace Day, 21 September. The competition is targeted at students aged between 13-18 years old who are invited to demonstrate an awareness
- [Columbans Lift Up Moral Voice at COP27 and COP15](https://columbans.ie/columbans-lift-up-moral-voice-at-cop27-and-cop15/) - As we approach the conclusion of the United Nations’ COP27 on climate change in Sharm El-Sheik, Egypt, (6-17, November) and anticipate the start of the UN’s COP15 on biodiversity in Montreal, Canada, (7-19, December), Columban missionaries have released a message to lift up the voices that we hear every day in different parts of the world
- [The Christmas Tree and St Columban: Plant for the Earth!](https://columbans.ie/the-christmas-tree-and-st-columban-plant-for-the-earth/) - Below, Jacques Prudhon, President of the Association of Les Amis de St Colomban, based in the French city of Luxeuil les Bains, where St Columban founded a monastery in 590AD, retells a local Christmas tale about the Christmas tree and St Columban. The current tradition of the Christmas Tree dates back to 16th century when
- [The Wonders of Pollination and Pollinators](https://columbans.ie/the-wonders-of-pollination-and-pollinators/) - Our upcoming Spring Day in Dalgan with Dr John Feehan will focus in a special way on the wonders of Pollination and Pollinators. Our day will focus on the chapters of the story that can be read in spring. We will explore the summer chapters in greater detail during the Summer School in July. On
- [Special status for Columban parish in Philippines](https://columbans.ie/special-status-bestowed-on-columban-run-church-in-philippines/) - Malate Church in Manila, a parish run by the Columbans, was officially declared an “important cultural property” by the National Museum of the Philippines on 22 April 2023 in recognition of its historical and cultural role. The 435-year-old church is officially known as Nuestra Señora de los Remedios (Our Lady of the Remedies) but more
- [Fr Eamon helps Patrick in Myitkyina find sobriety](https://columbans.ie/fr-eamon-helps-patrick-in-myitkyina-find-sobriety/) - Fr Eamon Sheridan relates how many young men in Myitkyina (Myanmar) are called Columban or Patrick - a legacy of the Irish Columbans who worked there between 1936 and 1978. In 2017, Fr Eamon began working at the Rebirth Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Myitkyina. Patrick is one of those who found sobriety from his addiction
- [Fr Tony Coney and the inspiring story of 'Maria'](https://columbans.ie/fr-tony-coney-and-the-inspiring-story-of-maria/) - Columban missionary Fr Tony Coney talks about his work with vulnerable and abused children in Peru and the inspiring story of 'Maria' who has overcome huge challenges and is now studying to be a lawyer.
- [The Story of Easter](https://columbans.ie/the-story-of-easter/) - Easter is suffering as Jesus did and making Him alive, resurrected in your actions, and bringing goodness so as to overcome evil, writes Columban missionary Fr Shay Cullen. What is it all about, we may ask. For those true friends of Jesus of Nazareth who believe that faith is a firm conviction that goodness, truth
- [We are an "Easter people"](https://columbans.ie/we-are-an-easter-people/) - A reflection by Fr John McEvoy in Fiji to wish all our supporters, families and friends a Happy Easter! "He is not here." Acts 10:34a, 37-43; Col 3:1-4; Jn 20:1-9 I can spend hours wandering through graveyards, reading dates and names on headstones. I find it therapeutic and even peaceful. Mostly they are ordinary headstones
- [Holy Saturday](https://columbans.ie/holy-saturday/) - Some months ago, a migrant friend here in Hong Kong texted me with the request that the Columbans hold her husband’s ashes in our chapel until she could bring them back to his home country for burial in the family plot. I was surprised that she did not want to keep the ashes in the
- [Stations of the Cross: Colour and Contemplation](https://columbans.ie/stations-of-the-cross-colour-and-contemplation/) - During Lent last year, Fr Jason Antiquera was able to recommence his art ministry after a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Those who participated in his Lenten Recollection were invited to pray and reflect on the Stations of the Cross through contemplative colouring. The first community that came together in person to
- [Book by Columban Gifted to President Joe Biden](https://columbans.ie/book-by-columban-gifted-to-president-joe-biden/) - Irish Times columnist, Miriam Lord, has revealed that a book on St Patrick by Columban missionary, Fr Aidan Larkin, was gifted by the Taoiseach to US President Joe Biden when Leo Varadkar visited Washington for St Patrick’s Day. Derry-born Fr Aidan died in 2019, not long after he completed his book. In her column, Miriam
- [Fr Dan Troy: Friendship and Faith](https://columbans.ie/fr-dan-troy-friendship-and-faith/) - Columban missionary Fr Dan Troy speaks about the importance of friendship in leading people to the faith.
- [Reflection for Spring](https://columbans.ie/reflection-for-spring/) - Nothing is so beautiful as Spring – When weeds, in wheels, shoot long and lovely and lush… From ‘Spring’ by Gerard Manley Hopkins Even the weeds in spring delight the heart of the poet, Gerard Manley Hopkins. After the dark days and cold winds of winter spring touches the hearts of us all. Spring –
- [Korean Bishop Thanks Columbans for Dedicated Service](https://columbans.ie/korean-bishop-thanks-columbans-for-dedicated-service/) - Bishop Job Koo Yobi of Seoul Archdiocese paid tribute to the Columbans in his homily at Mass on Sunday 19 March 2023 which marked the opening of the Missionary Society of St Columban’s Interregional/Mission Unit (IRMU) meeting in Korea. In his homily, Bishop Yobi, who has responsibility for religious and missionaries in Seoul Archdiocese, said
- [Witnessing to the Gospel though Christian-Muslim Dialogue](https://columbans.ie/witnessing-to-the-gospel-though-christian-muslim-dialogue/) - To mark the beginning of Ramadan, Fr Sean McDonagh recalls how the Vatican II document Nostra Aetate impacted on the relationship between the Catholic Church and the other great religions of world, including Islam. Columbans, he suggests, learned how to be missionaries in the countries in which they worked. I was ordained a Columban missionary
- [Winning Article + Image in Columban Schools Competition](https://columbans.ie/winning-article-image-in-columban-schools-competition-2023/) - This is the winning entry in the Columban Schools Media Competition 2023 (Ireland) by Katie Bonnes of St Louis Grammar School in Ballymena. It is illustrated by the winning image by Gabriela García Velarde of Christ the King Secondary School, Douglas, County Cork. It starts from within “For he himself is our peace, who has
- [Happy St Patrick’s Day from the Columbans!](https://columbans.ie/happy-st-patricks-day-from-the-columbans/) - Quite some time ago, I came across a quotation from Saint Patrick, and since then I use it in the confessional whenever a penitent struggles and worries about sins committed in the past and already sacramentally confessed, writes Fr Tom Cusack. When Saint Patrick’s enemies accused him of sins he committed in his youth —
- [New Church Nears Completion in China](https://columbans.ie/new-church-nears-completion-in-china/) - With a population of 200,000 people, Tianmen seems an appropriate place for the construction of a new church as the name literally means 'Gate of Heaven', writes Columban missionary Fr Dan Troy. As Fr Joseph Wang pointed to the bell towers of the new church, it was noted that they are lower compared to the
- [Fr Michael O’Farrell](https://columbans.ie/fr-michael-ofarrell/) - Michael Augustine O’Farrell was born 14th July 1938 at Lismore, Co Waterford. He was educated at Presentation Convent, Lismore, CBS Lismore and St Joseph’s College, Ballinasloe. He came to Dalgan in 1956 and was ordained priest in 21 December 1962. In March 1963 he was appointed to Greyfriars College, Oxford to study history. He and
- [Winners of Columban Schools Competition on Peace](https://columbans.ie/winners-of-columban-schools-competition-on-peace/) - Winners have been announced in 2023 Schools Media Competition for young people on the subject ‘Building Peaceful Futures’ run by the Columbans in Ireland and Britain. Young people aged 13-18 years were asked to produce an article or image that demonstrated an awareness and understanding of conflict in the world today. Also, to spotlight people,
- [Ba: It Was Hard To Say Goodbye After 70 Years](https://columbans.ie/ba-it-was-hard-to-say-goodbye-after-70-years/) - Fr John McEvoy reports on the three farewell ceremonies held in Ba parish for the Columban missionaries as they leave Christ the King after 70 years of service. At the end of 1952 and the beginning of 1953 - 70 years ago - the Columbans took over the spiritual administration of Ba Parish. Our relationship
- [Fr Parig Digan](https://columbans.ie/fr-parig-digan/) - Parig Digan was born in Ballinahowen, Athlone, on 24th February 1929. He was educated at Rashina NS, and St Mel’s College, Longford. He came to Dalgan in 1947 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1953. His first appointment was to further studies in history and anthropology at the Catholic University of America, Washington DC.
- [I Protest, Therefore I am](https://columbans.ie/i-protest-therefore-i-am/) - Are rising levels of inequality, exclusion and the denial of participation a reason to protest asks Columban Fr Bobby Gilmore. History is made by successive shocks, of confronting and overcoming successive challenges. Societies progress, and in the end, having attained complete liberty, may achieve a democratic state in some ideal form. (Stephane Hessel, Time for
- [Lenten Conversion Journey](https://columbans.ie/lenten-conversion-journey/) - Fr Tim Mulroy recalls a difficult conversation with a Columban in the USA which provided some insightful Lenten lessons. During the months leading up to his eighty-seventh birthday, on several occasions, Fr Paul White had gone from the hospital to a rehabilitation centre and then returned to the Columban house a few weeks later. This
- [Utter devastation in New Zealand reports Fr Pat O'Shea](https://columbans.ie/utter-devastation-in-new-zealand-reports-fr-pat-oshea/) - A massive clean up operation is underway in many parts of the North Island of New Zealand reports Columban missionary Fr Pat O'Shea, who lives and works in Lower Hutt. Cyclone Gabrielle caused the third national state of emergency to be declared in New Zealand. A combination of heavy rain, strong winds and ocean swells
- [Fr Leo Schumacher on the history of St Joseph’s in Tsukiji](https://columbans.ie/fr-leo-schumacher-on-the-history-of-st-josephs-in-tsukiji/) - Columban missionary Fr Leo Schumacher is parish priest of St Joseph’s in Tsukiji, the oldest parish in the Archdiocese of Tokyo. He talks about the interesting history of the parish. The Church in Tsukiji was founded by the Paris Foreign Missions Society. On 22nd of November 1874, it was consecrated and dedicated to St Joseph
- [World Religion Day in Hong Kong](https://columbans.ie/world-religion-day-in-hong-kong/) - After presiding at the Japanese Catholic Community’s Sunday Eucharist on 5th February 2023, Columban Fr Brian Vale attended a celebration of World Religion Day hosted by believers of the Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’is of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Network on Religion and Peace and the New Mindscape. The pandemic had caused the cancellation
- [Fr Bernard’s Valentine](https://columbans.ie/fr-bernards-valentine/) - St Valentine’s Day will see millions of love letters dispatched around the world. Fr Tim Mulroy recounts the heart-warming tale of one priest’s love letters. “I won’t be buying green bananas again!” was Fr Bernard’s greeting as I approached his hospital bed. He had phoned me earlier that day, requesting that I come to visit
- [Columban Prayers for Victims of Disasters in Chile and Peru](https://columbans.ie/columban-prayers-for-victims-of-disasters-in-chile-and-peru/) - Recent forest fires in south central Chile are among the deadliest on record. The Columbans in Chile are appealing for prayers and support. Separately, Columbans in Peru are praying for the 40 people killed and 20,000 left homeless by mud slides. Chile is going through one of its most devastating summers in its history. The
- [Fr Thomas Michael Murphy](https://columbans.ie/fr-thomas-michael-murphy/) - Thomas ‘Tommy’ Murphy was born in Castlebar, Co Mayo on 3rd of August 1949. He was educated at St Patrick’s Primary School and St Gerard’s Secondary School in Castlebar. He joined the Columbans in September 1967 and was ordained priest in Dalgan on Easter Sunday, 14 April 1974. Tommy’s first assignment was to Korea. After
- [Synodality and Formation for Mission](https://columbans.ie/synodality-and-formation-for-mission/) - Columban missionary Fr Frank Hoare spoke to the Federation of Conferences of Catholic Bishops of Oceania (FCBCO) earlier this week. Synodality and formation for mission were two of the three major themes of the bishops' assembly along with the effects of a changing climate on the oceans. Here is the text of Fr Hoare's address:
- [Fr Cyril Paul Murphy](https://columbans.ie/fr-cyril-paul-murphy/) - Cyril Murphy was born in Belfast on 5th November 1928. He was educated in St Teresa’s PE, Belfast, CBS Newry, and St Mary’s CBS Belfast. He came to Dalgan in 1946 and was ordained a priest on 21st December 1952. He was assigned to Japan and after initial language studies served in Katase and in
- [Columbans prepare to hand over Ba parish to Suva Archdiocese](https://columbans.ie/columbans-prepare-to-hand-over-ba-parish-to-suva-archdiocese/) - Fr Pat Colgan is the last Columban to serve in the parish of Ba in Fiji. As the Columbans prepare to hand over the parish to the Archdiocese of Suva he writes about his ministry there and the interfaith friendships which he forged. The Columbans are in our last month of ministry in Ba, before
- [Europe's Ghost: the Immigrant, the Other](https://columbans.ie/europes-ghost-the-immigrant-the-other/) - We are who we are because of migration. Migration has created the world we are part of today, writes Columban Missionary Fr Bobby Gilmore. The immigrant has become a contemporary passion in Europe, the vacant point around which ideals clash. Easily available as a token, existing everywhere and nowhere, he is talked about constantly. But
- [One Week to the Columban Schools Media Competition Deadline!](https://columbans.ie/one-week-to-the-columban-schools-media-competition-deadline/) - There is just one week to the deadline for this year’s Columban Schools Media Competition. Entries must be submitted by Friday 10th February. This year’s theme is: Building Peaceful Futures. Watch a video about the competition here: The competition is targeted at students aged between 13-18 years old who are invited to demonstrate an awareness
- [Clericalism – Curing the ‘Disease’](https://columbans.ie/clericalism-curing-the-disease/) - Fr Bernard McDermott examines why clericalism is a problem and who is guilty of it. As the synodal journey continues, I often get ‘feedback’ on the state of the Church from lay people, including members of my own family. Their comments sometimes question the lifestyle of priests and why so many continue to wear black
- [Reflection: January/February 2023 Far East magazine](https://columbans.ie/reflection-january-february-2023-far-east-magazine/) - As we look back on the past year and begin a new year, it can sometimes be quite a challenge to put into practice the saying of the former UN Secretary General, Dag Hammarskjöld: “For all that has been, thanks. For all that will be, yes!” The year we are leaving behind has shown us
- [Kiribati President hosts state banquet for Fr Donal McIlraith](https://columbans.ie/kiribati-president-hosts-state-banquet-for-columban-fr-donal-mcilraith/) - On Monday 16th January, the President of Kiribati, the Hon Taniti Mamau, hosted a banquet in honour of Columban missionary Fr Donal McIlraith. Fr McIlraith is from Macroom, Co Cork and has taught scripture at the Suva Seminary for the past 34 years. Over those years he has taught nearly all of Kiribati's current cohort
- [Fr Michael Irwin](https://columbans.ie/fr-michael-irwin/) - Fr Michael Irwin was born in Ballingarry, Co Limerick on 19th July 1936. He was educated at Ballingarry N.S. and St Munchin’s College, Limerick. In 1954 he entered St Patrick’s College, Maynooth and was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Limerick in 1961. He volunteered to work in Peru with the Missionary Society of
- [Fr Jeremiah Cotter](https://columbans.ie/fr-jeremiah-cotter/) - Fr Jeremiah (‘Jerry’) Cotter was born at Dunlisha, Douglas, Cork on 1st June 1930. He was educated at Christian Brothers N.S. and Christian Brothers College, Cork. He came to Dalgan in 1948 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1954. Jerry was appointed to Korea in 1955. The country was still recovering from the devastation
- [Flooding Disaster in Misamis Occidental](https://columbans.ie/flooding-disaster-in-misamis-occidental/) - On Christmas Eve, the residents of Misamis Occidental were waiting for midnight to celebrate Christmas. As they waited, they were surprised when water started to spill into their houses. Little did they realise that in a few hours their lives would be changed forever, write Virgenia O. Vidad and Columban missionary Fr Oliver McCrossan. According
- [Fr Michael Doohan](https://columbans.ie/fr-michael-doohan/) - Fr Michael (‘Mick’) Doohan was born on 4th March 1928 at The Hand, Connolly, Ennis, Co Clare. He was educated at Doolough N.S., Connolly, Ennis and St Flannan’s College, Ennis. He came to St Columban’s, Navan in 1946 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1952. He was appointed to the Philippines in 1953 and
- [The Warmi Huasi Project in Ayacucho](https://columbans.ie/the-warmi-huasi-project-in-ayacucho/) - A video on the work of the Warmi Huasi Project in Ayacucho (Peru) in which children, adolescents and teachers talk about how they adapted their way of working in 2021 in order to advance wellbeing and learning. Warmi Huasi was set up by Columban missionary Fr Ed O’Connell to accompany families, especially children who are
- [A Message for the New Year from Fr Raymond Husband](https://columbans.ie/a-message-for-the-new-year-from-fr-raymond-husband/) - The painting ‘The Light of the World’ by William Holman Hunt hangs in St Paul’s Cathedral London. It depicts the figure of Jesus preparing to knock on an overgrown and long unopened door. The painting illustrates Revelation 3:20, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any person hears my voice and opens the
- [Fr Austin McGuinness](https://columbans.ie/fr-austin-mcguinness/) - Fr Austin McGuinness was born on 25th November 1940 at Clonard, Co Meath. He was educated at Clonard N.S. and Belcamp College, Dublin. He entered Dalgan in September 1959 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1965. Austin was appointed to Korea in 1966. Over the following thirteen years, after language studies, he served in
- [Columban Statement on Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI](https://columbans.ie/columban-statement-on-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi/) - At the close of 2022 (and at the dawn of 2023) we look back in gratitude not only on the year gone by, but also on the life of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI who has now completed his pilgrim journey on this earth. We give thanks for his life of dedicated service to the Gospel.
- [A Christmas of Farewells for the Columbans in Ireland](https://columbans.ie/a-christmas-of-farewells-for-the-columbans-in-ireland/) - There is always sadness when a family member or a member of a community dies, particularly at Christmas time, writes Fr Pat Raleigh. This Christmas the Columbans in Ireland are mourning the loss of four priests. On Friday 30th December 2022, when we were coming to terms with the unexpected death of Austin McGuinness and
- [Fr John Smyth](https://columbans.ie/fr-john-smyth/) - Fr John Smyth was born in Wood Cottage Straide, Foxford, Co. Mayo on 15th September 1938. He attended Straide National School and subsequently De La Salle Secondary School in Castlebar, making the 25-mile return journey on his bicycle daily. He entered St Columban’s, Dalgan Park, Navan in pursuit of his dream of missionary priesthood. He
- [Happy Christmas to All Our Supporters, Friends and Families!](https://columbans.ie/happy-christmas-to-all-our-supporters-friends-and-family/) - Christmas Lights I like Christmas lights. In many Suburbs of Australia there are marvellous displays of Christmas lights. In the northern hemisphere I enjoyed the lights with the snow and the cold. They bring a wonderful feel to the whole season. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” Is this our experience? When
- [Two Seminarians Renew their Membership in Myanmar](https://columbans.ie/two-columban-seminarians-renew-their-membership-in-myanmar/) - Two Columban seminarians, Kyaw Zaw and Francis Xavier Nbwi La Aung, recently renewed their temporary membership of the Missionary Society of St Columban. This is their final temporary renewal before they hopefully will make their permanent oath on ordination next year. It was the first time that anyone has taken the oath of membership in
- [Rinneadh Feoil den Bhriathar / The Word became Flesh](https://columbans.ie/rinneadh-feoil-den-bhriathar-the-word-became-flesh/) - Bhí mé sa bhaile i mBaile Átha Cliath faoi Nollaig 2001, mé ag obair sa Bhreatain ag an am. Chonaic mé clár teilifíse faoi bhanaltraí ó Na Filipíní ag obair in in Éirinn ar RTÉ a chuaigh i bhfeidhm go mór orm. Cuireadh agallamh ar bhanaltra óg ó Mindanao – oileán i ndeisceart Na Filipíní
- [A Christmas poem by Fr Cyril Lovett](https://columbans.ie/a-christmas-poem-by-fr-cyril-lovett/) - Captivated by an Infant’s Gaze In the old days there was a myth that new-born babies could not see for some time after birth. Now we know better: within hours of being born a tiny child is focusing its eyes above all on its mother. This helpless, vulnerable baby is fixing its unblinking gaze to
- [Columban Outreach to Pakistan Flood Victims: December Update](https://columbans.ie/columban-outreach-to-pakistan-flood-victims-december-update/) - One of the main issues for poor families in rural areas of Sindh province in Pakistan, who have lost livestock and crops, is food security, writes Fr Liam O’Callaghan. In some of the worst affected areas they have been unable to plant crops for the coming season as flood water is still present. Many have
- [A Christmas Surprise](https://columbans.ie/a-christmas-surprise/) - Last Christmas Fr Frank Hoare took a break from life in the Fijian capital, Suva, to return to a rural parish where he had worked previously. But his attempt at Santa Claus did not get the reaction he expected. Maybe it was because I wasn’t wearing the required red robes or lacked a white beard
- [The Challenge of Gift Giving](https://columbans.ie/the-challenge-of-gift-giving/) - Christmas is the season of gift-giving. During Advent, we are preparing our souls to welcome the Christ-child. It is a gift designed for us by God. Preparing well what we give to others can help us prepare to receive the supreme love of God, writes Fr Jim Mulroney. Ping-pong played an instrumental part in thawing
- [The Waiting - December Reflection in Far East](https://columbans.ie/the-waiting-december-reflection-in-far-east/) - Advent is a time to pause, listen and look back on the past year, writes Columban missionary, Sr Rebecca Conlon. There is much to ponder. Mother Earth is suffering. There have been droughts and famine in some places while in Pakistan there have been floods of epic proportions. War broke out in Europe with Russia’s
- [Protecting Species: COP15 in Canada](https://columbans.ie/protecting-species-cop15-in-canada-2022/) - Fr Sean McDonagh explains the importance of the Conference on Biological Diversity (COP15) taking place in Canada and warns that Ireland is not immune to biodiversity losses. In 1992, the United Nations hosted a large gathering of people and Heads of State in Rio de Janeiro to face together the growing problem of protecting our
- [Advent Greetings from the Columban Leadership](https://columbans.ie/advent-greetings-from-the-columban-leadership/) - Society Leader, Fr Tim Mulroy, offers Advent greetings on behalf of Columban missionaries in 17 countries around the world, and thanks friends and benefactors for their generous ongoing support for Columban projects with the poorest and most marginalised. The message of Christmas, he says, reminds us that with the birth of Christ, a new day
- [Advent Retreat](https://columbans.ie/advent-retreat/) - Fr Tim Mulroy recalls a friend’s theory that nothing captures the spirit of Advent like a fishing expedition. Each year, at the beginning of December, as those around him begin preparing their Christmas shopping list, Ben begins preparing his fishing gear. Then, as family members and friends make plans for Christmas parties, Ben heads off
- [Fr Harry O'Carroll on the Columbans' role in Martyrs Park in Japan](https://columbans.ie/fr-harry-ocarroll-on-the-columbans-role-in-martyrs-park-in-japan/) - One of the great centres of Christian activity in the 16th and 17th centuries in Japan was the area around Yatsushiro. Columban missionary, Fr Harry O’Carroll explains the history to the Christian Martyrs’ Park in Yatsushiro which commemorates the beatification of the 11 Yatsushiro martyrs. They were among 187 Japanese martyrs declared blessed in a
- [Fr Desmond Morrison](https://columbans.ie/fr-desmond-morrison/) - Fr Desmond Morrison passed away in Big Hearts Care Home, Parañaque, Manila, after a long illness. He had spent 66 years of his missionary life in the Philippines. He was born in Dublin on 28 February 1925 and grew up in Derry where he attended Waterside Primary School and St Columb’s College, Derry. He graduated
- [Ag Guí ar Son na Marbh](https://columbans.ie/ag-gui-ar-son-na-marbh/) - Fr Sean Coyle/Seán Mac Cumhaill writes about finding his great-uncle Lawrence Dowd's grave in Flanders 84 years after he was killed in the Great War. He highlights the nightly ceremony at the Menin Gate to remember the more than 50,000 men, 5,000 of them Irish, who died in the Battle of Ypres and whose burial
- [First Pacifican Columban Takes Charge in Fiji](https://columbans.ie/first-pacifican-columban-takes-charge-in-fiji/) - Fr Donal McIlraith reports on a major development in Columban leadership. On St Columban’s Day, 23rd November 2022, Fr Felisiano Fatu became Vice Director of the Columban Region of Oceania and became the first Pacifican leader in Fiji in 70 years. “You did not chose me, but I have chosen you.” Jn 15:16 On St
- [Let us remember them](https://columbans.ie/let-us-remember-them/) - During the month of November we remember and pray for those we have lost during the past year. We invite you to join us in prayer for those members of the worldwide Columban community who have died over the past 12 months. They include the following Columban missionaries: Fr. Seamus Egan Fr. Aodh O’Halpin
- [Interfaith Week: Interreligious Dialogue in Fiji](https://columbans.ie/interfaith-week-interreligious-dialogue-in-fiji/) - Fr Frank Hoare explains why Fiji needs interreligious dialogue and how Columban efforts are a small contribution towards working for peace in the world. On 14 May 1987, people in Fiji were shocked when the army overthrew the elected government in a coup d’etat. The army claimed that it was saving the indigenous Fijian people
- [Update from Fr Tomás King on the Flood Situation in Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/update-from-fr-tomas-king-on-the-flood-situation-in-pakistan/) - In recent years, my main ministry in Hyderabad is as director of the Joti Centre, the catechetical centre for the diocese, writes Tomás King. Like all other organisations within the church, as well as NGOs and civil society, the staff of Joti Centre got involved in emergency flood relief in the wake of the flooding
- [The Columban Schools Media 2023 Competition](https://columbans.ie/learn-about-the-2023-columban-schools-media-competition/) - The Columbans in Ireland have launched of their latest Schools Media Competition which this year has the title: Building Peaceful Futures. Watch this video to learn more. The competition is targeted at students aged between 13-18 years old who are invited to demonstrate an awareness and an understanding of conflict in the world today through
- [Catholic Church must bring abusers to justice](https://columbans.ie/catholic-church-must-bring-abusers-to-justice/) - It is vital that the Catholic Church, non-government organisations (NGOs), development agencies and government put children at the heart of national and religious concerns writes Fr Shay Cullen. The Preda Foundation cares for more than 150 child victims of abuse every year. The Church and clergy must remember and act constantly on the teaching of
- [Climate Justice is the Right of the Poor](https://columbans.ie/climate-justice-is-the-right-of-the-poor/) - Climate injustice impacts the innocent poor much harder than the guilty rich and the problem is social, environmental and political, writes Fr Shay Cullen. When I hike into the hills and mountains of Zambales with the Aeta indigenous farmers, their children and families, we are usually on a trek with the Preda fair trade team
- [November: A Thin Place](https://columbans.ie/november-a-thin-place/) - A ‘Thin Place’ according to the late Irish philosopher and poet John O’Donohue is a place or time where heaven and earth meet and we have access to ‘light’ or the beyond in a different way. It is a threshold experience where time and eternity embrace. John O’Donohue was steeped in the Celtic tradition and
- [We Who Grieve](https://columbans.ie/we-who-grieve/) - November is the month of the Holy Souls writes Columban missionary Fr Michael O’Loughlin. Every year in the month of June a Memorial Mass is celebrated in Dalgan Park on Cemetery Sunday for deceased members of the Columban Fathers. Families of those who have died are invited to take part. Unfortunately, due to Covid,
- [Diocese of Kerry's Webinar with Fr Liam O'Callaghan SSC](https://columbans.ie/diocese-of-kerrys-webinar-with-fr-liam-o-callaghan-ssc/) - The Diocese of Kerry’s Justice Peace and Integrity of Creation Committee held a Mission Month webinar on 20th October in which Columban missionary Fr Liam O’Callaghan spoke from Pakistan about the recent flooding disaster and the impact of the climate crisis. The aim of the webinar was to create awareness around Mission. The opening prayer
- [Warmi Huasi Project promotes childrens' rights in Peru](https://columbans.ie/warmi-huasi-project-promotes-childrens-rights-in-peru/) - The work of the Warmi Huasi Project in Peru during 2021. Warmi Huasi was set up by Columban missionary Fr Ed O’Connell to accompany families, especially children at risk, who are living in situations of poverty. The name Warmi Huasi comes from the Indian Quechua language meaning ‘Women’s House.’ This video shows the active participation
- [Would You Do It Again?](https://columbans.ie/would-you-do-it-again/) - Fr Frank Hoare, a Columban missionary in Fiji, reflects on his decision to become a missionary priest when he was seventeen and has no regrets about his choice. I was standing by the bed of a Hindu ascetic dying of cancer in a monastery in North India. He shared with me the call he heard
- [Speaking Truth to Power is a Moral Obligation](https://columbans.ie/speaking-truth-to-power-is-a-moral-obligation/) - In the wake of the recent assassination of journalist Percival Mabasa, Fr Shay Cullen warns that the Philippines is among the most dangerous places in the world to be a journalist apart from war zones. Truth-telling is the work of journalists, writers and broadcasters and the duty of church leaders above all. Telling and writing
- [Fr Charles Joseph Francis Meagher](https://columbans.ie/fr-charles-joseph-francis-meagher/) - Charles (Charlie) Meagher was born in Killarney, Co Kerry on 1st October 1935. He was educated at Presentation Convent, Presentation Brothers, and St Brendan’s College, Killarney. He came to Dalgan Park in September 1954 and was ordained a priest on 21st December 1960. Assigned to the Philippines in 1961, his first appointment was to Gingoog
- [The Chill by Fr Bobby Gilmore](https://columbans.ie/the-chill-by-fr-bobby-gilmore/) - Fr Bobby Gilmore wrote this last year as he watched the swallows gather on the roof in the sun as they prepared to leave. The Chill As if awakening to the tinkle of alarm clock On cue they arrived from a seeming elsewhere Lining up on the apex of the roof In single file facing
- [“Dancing to One Beat”](https://columbans.ie/dancing-to-one-beat/) - Dialogue is like a dance. It is a movement. In dance we can have unity but also diversity, writes Columban missionary Fr Kurt Zion Pala from Myanmar. Through dance, we can come together with our different identities but still able to have a conversation through the dance. When we run out of words, we can
- [Forming the Next Generation of Interfaith Activists](https://columbans.ie/forming-the-next-generation-of-interfaith-activists/) - I have participated in interreligious dialogue, especially Christian-Muslim relations, for many years, in Pakistan and in Australia writes Columban missionary, Fr Patrick McInerney. I have visited gurdwaras, mosques, synagogues and temples. I have attended, participated in, and co-hosted interfaith conferences and events. I have given talks, workshops, and seminars on interreligious dialogue to various groups
- [Fr Patrick Gerald McNicholas](https://columbans.ie/fr-patrick-gerald-mcnicholas/) - Gerald (“Gerry”) McNicholas was born on 6 April 1941 in Kiltimagh, Co Mayo. He was educated at Craggagh NS, and St Colman’s College, Claremorris, and came to St Columban’s, Dalgan Park in 1959. He studied at UCD from 1960 to 1962, completed his studies in theology at Dalgan and was ordained a priest on 21
- [Fr Peter Hughes: Living his Best Life](https://columbans.ie/fr-peter-hughes-living-his-best-life/) - An interview with 80-year-old Columban missionary, Fr Peter Hughes, co-ordinator of indigenous and human rights for REPAM, a Catholic Church network that promotes the right and dignity of people living in the Amazon by Mike Finnerty of the Mayo News. Imagine becoming a Columban Missionary Priest at the age of 17 in the Ireland of
- [Jubilee for the Earth | Creating Healthy Politics: Biodiversity Loss + Advocacy for the Common Good](https://columbans.ie/jubilee-for-the-earth-creating-healthy-politics-biodiversity-loss-advocacy-for-the-common-good/) - It is our responsibility, as much as it is our right, to use our moral voices to advocate alongside the earth and its more marginalised children for a more just, sustainable world. To solve the ecological crisis, we need every person to be a part of the solution, starting with their local community and moving
- [Pakistan food rations a "Godsend" to flood victims](https://columbans.ie/pakistan-food-rations-a-god-send-to-flood-victims/) - Columbans on mission in Sindh Province in Pakistan are very grateful for the generous financial help that has been sent to help flood victims, writes Fr Dan O’Connor. It is especially given to those who may not otherwise receive aid, whether they are Christian, Hindu or Muslim. Though it may be seen as a, “drop
- [Reflection: September/October 2022 Far East magazine](https://columbans.ie/reflection-september-october-2022-far-east-magazine/) - Three significant events keep niggling at me as I reflect on life in recent months: the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the presidential election in the Philippines, and the synodal process in the Church. There might be no obvious connection between these three but there are some common denominators. When Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, spoke about
- [Jubilee for the Earth | Prophets of the Future: Biodiversity Loss + Young People](https://columbans.ie/jubilee-for-the-earth-prophets-of-the-future-biodiversity-loss-young-people/) - If we want to solve the world’s ecological crisis, we have to listen to young people. Decisions must be made with their input, because it will be their generations who will be facing the worst consequences of this crisis. In his encyclical letter on the environment, Laudato Si’, Pope Francis writes: “the notion of the
- [Will COP27 confront the current  global climate crisis?](https://columbans.ie/will-cop27-confront-the-current-global-climate-crisis/) - COP27 takes place in Sharm El-Sheikh in Egypt in November 2022. Will it confront the current global climate crisis asks Columban missionary Fr Sean McDonagh. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) began its work in 1988. Its object was to provide the world with a clear scientific understanding of climate change and its environmental
- [Jubilee for the Earth | Earth’s Twin Crises: Biodiversity Loss + Climate Change](https://columbans.ie/jubilee-for-the-earth-earths-twin-crises-biodiversity-loss-climate-change/) - In an article for the Australian Academy of Sciences, Professor Ary Hoffman writes: “even small changes in average temperatures can have a significant effect upon ecosystems… The interconnected nature of ecosystems means that the loss of species [because of climate change] can have knock-on effects upon a range of ecosystem functions.” Every day, scientists are
- ["The situation is still critical" - Fr Liam O'Callaghan in Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/the-situation-is-still-critical-fr-liam-ocallaghan-in-pakistan/) - The situation is still critical, reports Columban missionary Fr Liam O’Callaghan. Writing from Pakistan’s Sindh province, where the Columbans work, he explains how the government has declared 23 out of 29 districts as calamity-hit areas. “I have seen many humanitarian disasters in the world, but I have never seen climate carnage on this scale.” That
- [Our Sacred Community: Biodiversity Loss + Indigenous Peoples | Jubilee for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/our-sacred-community-biodiversity-loss-indigenous-peoples-jubilee-for-the-earth/) - If the global community wants to better care for creation, we have to first listen to the wisdom of Indigenous traditions, and centre their experience and expertise in the conversation about solutions. According to the World Wildlife Fund, “although they comprise less than 5% of the world population, Indigenous peoples protect 80% of the Earth’s
- [Columbans provide food to Pakistan's flood victims](https://columbans.ie/columbans-provide-food-to-pakistans-flood-victims/) - An update from Pakistan from Fr Pat Visanti on Columban efforts to help some of those worst affected by the recent floods in the parish of Badin. Saint Thomas the Apostle Parish is located in a rural city of Badin. It is about three hours’ drive from Pakistan’s biggest city, Karachi. There are over 400
- [Everything is Holy: Biodiversity Loss & Spirituality | Jubilee for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/everything-is-holy-biodiversity-loss-spirituality-jubilee-for-the-earth/) - In his encyclical letter on the environment, Laudato Si’, Pope Francis writes: “It is true that we Christians have at times incorrectly interpreted the Scriptures, [but] nowadays we must forcefully reject the notion that our being created in God’s image, and given dominion over the earth, justifies absolute domination over other creatures” (LS #67). Instead,
- [Ecological Summer School 2022](https://columbans.ie/ecological-summer-school-2022/) - An Tairseach and the Columban Ecological Institute Dalgan present 'God’s Old Diaries – A Geological Exploration' by John Feehan. Geology can be defined as the study of the early chapters in the story of Creation. This year’s Summer School at An Tairseach looks at how the study of earth’s story deepens our understanding of God’s
- [Summer Wildflower Walk in Dalgan 2022](https://columbans.ie/summer-wildflower-walk-in-dalgan-2022/) - ‘To see a world in a grain of sand and a heaven in a wildflower’ William Blake Dear Columbans and Friends, You are invited to join us on Thursday 2nd June from 11.30 am – 12 pm for a Summer Wildflower Walk. Meeting place: the Probo Door which is situated on the east wing of
- [Columban Way/Turas Columbanus Annual Walk](https://columbans.ie/columban-way-turas-columbanus-annual-walk/) - The Columban Way/Turas Columbanus Annual Walk takes place on Saturday 4th June 2022 from Bunclody in Co Wexford to Myshall in Co Carlow. This wonderful walk takes a scenic route along quiet country roads and through the forests of the Blackstairs Mountains to the Nine Stones viewing point at Mount Leinster. It continues onwards over
- [Devastation in Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/devastation-in-pakistan/) - This year has seen one of the worst monsoon seasons in Pakistan in decades. The rain that started in June is still continuing. Up to 1,136 people have lost their lives, writes Columban missionary Fr Liam O’Callaghan. The Government has declared a national emergency as over 30 million people have been badly affected. According to
- [The Crushing Burden of Debt](https://columbans.ie/the-crushing-burden-of-debt/) - There is one thing above others that humans can never escape and that is the burden of debt, writes Columban missionary Fr Shay Cullen. Almost everyone, except the millionaires, have a burden of debt. They, too, can be in debt. Everyone seems to owe someone. There are different kinds of debt such as the “debt
- [Trailer for Jubilee for the Earth: Biodiversity and Our Sacred Story](https://columbans.ie/trailer-for-jubilee-for-the-earth-biodiversity-and-our-sacred-story/) - Jubilee for the Earth is about the beauty of God’s biodiversity and the threats it faces. Each episode will explore biodiversity loss and a related issue like climate change, indigenous peoples, young people, etc. Watch series two trailer.
- [New series: ‘Jubilee for the Earth: Biodiversity and Our Sacred Story’](https://columbans.ie/new-podcast-series-jubilee-for-the-earth-biodiversity-and-our-sacred-story/) - The Columbans are delighted to be launching the second season of its podcast, 'Jubilee for the Earth'. The theme of this new season is: Biodiversity and Our Sacred Story. The new podcast series launches on 31st August and explores the beauty of God’s biodiversity and the threats it faces. Each episode will explore biodiversity loss
- [New Student Learning Resource Centre in Myanmar](https://columbans.ie/new-student-learning-resource-centre-in-myanmar/) - On the 15th of August 2022 - the Feast of the Assumption - Catholic Student Action Myitkyina opened its Student Learning Resources Centre (SLRC), which is located in the grounds of St Patrick’s Church, Shatapur Parish in Myitkyina, Kachin State, Myanmar. The current political crisis and the Covid pandemic has affected young people in the
- [Columban Centenary Schools Journalism Competition Winner](https://columbans.ie/columban-centenary-schools-journalism-competition-winner/) - As part of the Columban Centenary celebrations, the Far East magazine invited students in Ireland aged between 15-18 to write an article on the topic ‘Migrants Are Our Neighbours’. Here is the winning article by Albina Haliti. Attention passengers. Flight 938Xh from Dublin to Pristina is now boarding, please have your passport and boarding ticket
- [China: Celebrating the Assumption in Wuhan](https://columbans.ie/china-celebrating-the-assumption-in-wuhan/) - At the beginning of his homily for the Solemnity of the Assumption, Fr Joseph referred to the artwork at one side of Holy Family Church to make a point about the day's celebration. His gentle way of highlighting the painting of the Assumption was also a good reminder for us to be attentive to how
- [Fr Sean Francis Corr](https://columbans.ie/fr-sean-francis-corr/) - Sean Corr was born on 30th September 1934 at Lower Aunagher, Coalisland, Co Tyrone. He was educated at Annaghmore PS and St Patrick’s Academy, Dungannon. He came to Dalgan in 1952 and after Probation Year and Philosophy studies, he was sent with two others to our seminary in Boston, MA as an exchange student for
- [Update from the Columban Centre in Dublin](https://columbans.ie/update-from-the-columban-centre-in-dublin/) - With the easing of Covid restrictions our work teaching English to refugees and migrants was able to get back to pre-Covid levels, writes Michael O'Sullivan. We have kept classes smaller but are running more afternoon classes to cope with demand. As well as the huge upsurge from Ukraine we have seen more people coming from
- [Nonviolence or Non-existence?](https://columbans.ie/nonviolence-or-non-existence/) - Columban Fr Patrick Cunningham is a member of the Catholic Nonviolence Initiative and the Catholic Solidarity Movement for Peace on the Korean peninsula. He believes that the ongoing threat of nuclear war means the only choice is between nonviolence and non-existence. As a Columban working in South Korea, my mission has challenged me to be
- [Our Changing Church: a Columban Priest’s Journey](https://columbans.ie/our-changing-church-a-columban-priests-journey/) - Teresa Pirola of Catholic Outlook speaks to Columban missionary Fr Patrick McInerney about his address to the Annual Shoah Memorial Service hosted by the Council of Christians and Jews of New South Wales where he spoke about his journey into interfaith work. The Church changes over time. Sometimes dramatically, in the public eye; and, more
- [Historic Columban 'Come and See' programmes](https://columbans.ie/historic-columban-come-and-see-programmes/) - On Saturday 23 July 2022 Columban seminarians and their formator held two ‘Come and See’ programmes in Fiji, writes Fr Frank Hoare. The day-long face-to-face programme was conducted at the Columban Formation House and was attended by 16 young men. Two of these came all the way from Labasa for the programme. The other programme
- [Van Diemen’s Land, Monserrat, Barbados, Devil's Island, Gulag, Gitmo, Manaus, Rwanda](https://columbans.ie/van-diemens-land-monserrat-barbados-devils-island-gulag-gitmo-manaus-rwanda/) - The ongoing debate over the British Government's decision to deport those seeking asylum in Britain to Rwanda has thrown up all kinds of reasons to justify such a policy, not all rational, well thought out or legal, writes Fr Bobby Gilmore. For the first time in two decades, we are now seeing an increase in
- [Mr Zawng - the Village School Teacher](https://columbans.ie/mr-zawng-the-village-school-teacher/) - Mr Zawng is interviewed by a Columban who wishes to remain anonymous and asked what he learnt from being a member of the Catholic Student Action Myitkyina (CSAM) back in 2019. “Wa Jau ngai hpe hkan ya rit.” (Father come and follow me. This is a short way to the top! “Wajau” means Father and
- [Fr Pat Visanti on life as a Columban missionary in Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/fr-pat-visanti-on-life-as-a-columban-missionary-in-pakistan/) - Columban missionary Fr Pat Visanti is from Rotuma, a Polynesian island in Fiji. On a recent visit home he shared with our Columban seminarians some of his experiences of being on mission in Pakistan. Fr Frank Hoare recalls a few stories he told. Mistaken Identity When Pakistani people first meet me wearing a shalwar kamiz
- [Reflection: July/August 2022 Far East Magazine](https://columbans.ie/reflection-july-august-2022-far-east-magazine/) - Made to Feel Welcome By Monalisa Esteban A few months ago, I had the strange experience of having my hands washed by an old lady in a village in rural Pakistan. She grabbed my hands and started washing them. I did try to stop her, but then I decided to surrender to the moment. It
- [Columban Migrant Ministry Chile - Part 2](https://columbans.ie/columban-migrant-ministry-chile-part-2/) - Columban Migrant Ministry in Chile - Part 2 explains how Pope Francis has influenced the development of the migrant house and migrant work within the Catholic church. Columban missionary Fr Daniel Harding gives a tour of St Columban's House of Hospitality for Migrants. The video also includes interviews with some of the migrants living in
- [Pandemic made the poor poorer and the rich richer](https://columbans.ie/pandemic-made-the-poor-poorer-and-the-rich-richer/) - The Covid pandemic has caused great harm, warns Columban missionary Fr Shay Cullen. The rich became richer while the poor became poorer. During the pandemic, an additional 4.27 million Filipinos fell into extreme poverty. People like Maria Mahirap, one of the poorest in the Philippines. There are hundreds of thousands of people like her, who
- [My Journey to Gospel Nonviolence](https://columbans.ie/my-journey-to-gospel-nonviolence/) - Our recently retired Columban colleague, Scott Wright, who is a Pax Christi USA Ambassador of Peace, has written this wonderful reflection on nonviolence. Fifty years ago, in June 1972, I returned my draft card to my local draft board in Lincoln, Nebraska. They sent me a new card and warned me that the penalty for
- [Poverty levels are still above pre-pandemic levels in Peru](https://columbans.ie/poverty-levels-are-still-above-pre-pandemic-levels-in-peru/) - I find people resilient by nature but somewhat worn down by the length of the pandemic and the grieving for those they have lost, writes Columban missionary Fr Ed O’Connell in Peru. The total number of Covid cases in Peru is more than three and a half million and the number of deaths 213,475.
- [Columban Education in Myanmar](https://columbans.ie/columban-education-in-myanmar/) - Columban Missionaries have been working with the local church to help educate children in the rural areas of Myanmar since 2009. With the support of our donors, children in Myanmar are able to complete their schooling and move on to higher education. To support Columban work DONATE ONLINE: https://columbans.ie/donate/
- [China: Rooted in faith, family and community](https://columbans.ie/china-rooted-in-faith-family-and-community/) - China's state examination for senior high school students is seen a major event in life, not only for the students but also for the extended families of the students. As Lily Zhang awaits the results of her recent exams, the news that will arrive very soon is seen by her and her family as what
- [Columban listed among UCD's most exceptional alumni](https://columbans.ie/columban-listed-among-ucds-most-exceptional-alumni/) - Columban missionary Fr Michael Riordan has been listed among 20 exceptional alumni of UCD’s School of Veterinary Medicine to mark the anniversary of the faculty’s move to the Veterinary Sciences Centre on UCD’s Belfield campus. The alumni selected are listed on a wall of the School of Veterinary Medicine. They were nominated by staff, students
- [The Colonial Racism We Must Protest](https://columbans.ie/the-colonial-racism-we-must-protest/) - While Ukrainians are welcomed to Britain, dark-skinned asylum seekers are deported, like 160,000 Irish, writes Fr Shay Cullen. Colonial crimes and atrocities are always with us. Colonial rulers have stamped their cruel laws and vices on the occupied and exploited nations. The victims have suffered a loss of identity, and cultural and moral values and
- [Praying Under an Ancient Ginkgo Tree's Shadow](https://columbans.ie/praying-under-an-ancient-ginkgo-trees-shadow/) - In Wuhan, central China, where I live, I frequently visit the Sisters of Our Lady of Hanyang, a diocesan congregation founded by Bishop Edward Galvin, co-founder of St Columbans Mission Society, writes Fr Dan Troy. Their convent is located right beside St Columban's Cathedral, a short distance from the spot where the Han River enters
- [Three Important Hallmarks](https://columbans.ie/three-important-hallmarks/) - Although all Columbans may not agree with me, I think our life as Columbans has three important hallmarks. Community The first of these is our community life; despite living quite separately, we are a brotherhood. Many of us have lived alone in isolated places for years; the simple fact is that mission sometimes demands it.
- [Columban Migrant Ministry in Chile](https://columbans.ie/columban-migrant-ministry-in-chile/) - In this video Columban missionary Fr Dan Harding speaks about the migrant crisis in Chile and the work of the Columban Houses of Hospitality for migrants. Since March 2020, Chile has received almost 1,500,000 migrants, which is 8% of the entire population of the country of 19,222,527. In recent years, the number of migrants has
- [Joy as Second Columban Priest Ordained in the Philippines](https://columbans.ie/joy-as-second-columban-priest-ordained-in-the-philippines/) - We rejoice and give thanks to God for the priestly ordination of Fr Jerry A. Lohera as a Columban missionary priest. On 14 June 2022, Archbishop Jose Cabantan of Cagayan de Oro ordained Fr Jerry. The ceremony took place at San Roque Parish, Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental, in the Philippines. Fr Jerry’s ordination follows the priestly
- [Celebrating Pentecost Sunday in Wuhan](https://columbans.ie/celebrating-pentecost-sunday-in-wuhan/) - Having waited for more than two years to receive news of a resumption of Mass for the international community in Wuhan, the announcement of it happening for Pentecost Sunday seemed delightfully appropriate for its members. For those who have lived with tighter restrictions than those imposed on the wider population, it was a sign of
- [Remembering all Columbans Who Have Journeyed With Us](https://columbans.ie/remembering-all-columbans-who-have-journeyed-with-us/) - It was a great blessing to have so many present for Cemetery Sunday on 12th June 2022, writes Fr Pat Raleigh. After a lapse of three years, due to COVID, it was a pleasure to gather together on Sunday at the Community Cemetery in Dalgan to give thanks to God for the lives and witness
- [Korean Boyband BTS calls for racial equality and moral values](https://columbans.ie/korean-boyband-bts-calls-for-racial-equality-and-moral-values/) - What in the world was the famous Korean boy band BTS doing in the White House press room, talking to the world media and standing behind White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, the first openly gay black woman to hold the job wonders Fr Shay Cullen? These young people and remarkably a woman were telling
- [Cemetery Sunday takes place this Sunday: 12 June 2022](https://columbans.ie/cemetery-sunday-takes-place-this-sunday-12-june-2022/) - We invite relatives of deceased Columbans to join us in Dalgan Park, Navan on 12 June 2022 for Cemetery Sunday. Mass will be celebrated in the cemetery at 3pm. Please let us know how many family members will attend and the name of your Columban relative by emailing missionofficessc@gmail.com
- [Pentecost’s Flame Tree](https://columbans.ie/pentecosts-flame-tree/) - Fr Tim Mulroy writes about the bright red flowers of Royal Poinciana, more commonly known as the Flame Tree, and sees a resemblance between its astonishing flowers and the tongues of fire through which the Holy Spirit came upon the apostles. The morning after Pentecost, as I opened the curtains of my bedroom window, the
- [A Conversation about Climate Justice for Fiji](https://columbans.ie/a-conversation-about-climate-justice-for-fiji/) - Sr Caroline Vaitkunas of the Columban Peace, Ecology and Justice team in Australia talks to Tevita Naikasowalu of the Columban Peace, Ecology and Justice team in Fiji about the impacts of climate change on communities in Suva and elsewhere around Fiji, particularly those living close to the coast who are having to relocate.
- [Migrant Workers Celebrate “Our Dear Fr Aodh”](https://columbans.ie/migrant-workers-celebrate-our-dear-fr-aodh/) - Migrant workers in Britain paid warm tributes to Columban Father Aodh O’Halpin at a Mass they organised for him in London on 28 May, writes Columban co-worker Ellen Teague. Fr Aodh died on 2 April 2022 at the age of 88 in Ireland after illness forced him to move into the Columban retirement home just
- [World Day of Prayer for the Church in China](https://columbans.ie/world-day-of-prayer-for-the-church-in-china/) - Fr Eamonn O'Brien from China Church Solidarity writes: Pope Benedict XVI designated 24 May, as a Day of Prayer for the Church in China. Please remember also Cardinal Zen, the emeritus bishop of Hong Kong, and his four colleagues who were recently arrested under National Security Laws and charged with "collusion with foreign forces." Below
- [Reflecting on Ukraine, the Philippines and Synodality](https://columbans.ie/reflecting-on-ukraine-the-philippines-and-synodality/) - Three significant events keep niggling in my head as I reflect on life over the last few months: the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the presidential election in the Philippines, and the Synodal process in the Church, writes Columban lay missionary, Angie Escarsa. There might be no obvious relation between these three but if we reflect
- [Launch of Dr John Feehan’s New Book](https://columbans.ie/launch-of-dr-john-feehans-new-book/) - Dr John Feehan, one of Ireland’s leading geologists, botanists, environmental communicators, authors and broadcasters, launches his new book - 'Every Bush Aflame' – on Wednesday 15th September at 6.30pm. If you wish to attend, please contact Veritas at: events@veritas.ie before Friday 10th September. A native of Birr, Dr Feehan received his PhD on the geology
- [Soccer Legend Paul McGrath to Launch Columban Way](https://columbans.ie/soccer-legend-paul-mcgrath-to-launch-columban-way/) - Irish soccer legend Paul McGrath will launch ‘The Columban Way’ this weekend at the Columban Cairn, at the Nine Stones Viewing Point on the Blackstairs Mountain. Bishop Denis Nulty of Kildare & Leighlin will bless and lead the walk from the Cairn down into Myshall village on Saturday 19th February at 1pm. This is a
- [Online Ecumenical Prayer Service for Peace in Europe](https://columbans.ie/online-ecumenical-prayer-service-for-peace-in-europe/) - The Friends of St Columbanus are hosting an online (ZOOM) Ecumenical Prayer Service for Peace in Europe on Sunday 3rd April 2022 at 6pm (GMT) and 7pm (CET). After more than 80 years of peace, Europe is experiencing fracture and war and this call to reflection and prayer is in response to the current situation.
- [Tenth Anniversary of Loyola Institute Celebrated](https://columbans.ie/tenth-anniversary-of-loyola-institute-celebrated/) - ‘Theology in a Conversation About Hope’ was the title of Dr Cornelius Casey’s lecture to mark the tenth anniversary of the Loyola Institute at Trinity College Dublin. In his talk, the Director of the Loyola Institute discussed Charles Péguy’s theology of the theological virtue of hope in the poem, ‘The Portal of the Mystery of
- [Fr William Carrigan](https://columbans.ie/fr-william-carrigan/) - Fr William (Billy) Carrigan was born on 18th July 1933 at Conahy, Co Kilkenny. He was educated at Clinstown NS and St Kieran’s College, Kilkenny. He came to St Columban’s, Dalgan Park, Navan in September 1951. He was ordained priest on 22nd December 1957. In 1958 he was appointed to the Philippines where he would
- [Proclaiming Mission in a Language Not Your Own!](https://columbans.ie/proclaiming-mission-in-a-language-not-your-own/) - Communicating in difficult new languages can result in some bloopers cautions 90-year-old Columban missionary, Fr Barry Cairns. Did St Francis Xavier have the gift of tongues? I think not! Yes, he could speak his native Basque, Spanish, Portuguese and French. He was a missionary in India, Malaysia and Indonesia (Maluku Islands). But after Francis arrived
- [Fr Joseph Houston](https://columbans.ie/fr-joseph-houston/) - Fr Joseph (‘Joe’) Houston was born on 14 December 1940 in Belfast. He was educated at St Gall’s Primary School and St Malachy’s College, Belfast. He did a degree in Arts at Queen’s University, Belfast and followed that with a MA in Celtic Studies. He taught Gaelic for two years at St Colmcille School, Rosgar,
- [Meet a Columban: Seminarians in the Philippines](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-seminarians-in-the-philippines/) - In this episode, we feature Columban seminarians who are studying in the Philippines. They share their vocation stories, experiences and the challenges they have encountered during the COVID pandemic.
- [Let a Million Lenis Bloom](https://columbans.ie/let-a-million-lenis-bloom/) - John Din, Columban Regional Coordinator for Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation in the Philippines, reflects on the outcome of the election and the campaign of misinformation waged against Leni Robredo. After decades of elaborate work to rebrand the Marcos name by historical denialism and a massive disinformation campaign through social media, Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos,
- [Reflection: May/June 2022 Far East magazine](https://columbans.ie/reflection-may-june-2022-far-east-magazine/) - Giving Honour Every day in our lives we meet people of various ages from different backgrounds. Many of them we don’t know but some of them we get to know and interact with. Sometimes certain people, whether we know then personally or not, have an impact on our life. I will never forget a neighbour
- [Covid Restrictions Takes a Toll on Families of Disabled](https://columbans.ie/covid-restrictions-takes-a-toll-on-families-of-disabled/) - Fr Noel O'Neill writes about the impact COVID-19 restrictions have had on the intellectually disabled in South Korea. Due to the spread of the Omicrom variant, care centres like Emmaus were ordered to shut their doors in order to try to stem the spread of the virus. That meant Emmaus' clients had to be cared
- [Patmos, Odessa, Texas](https://columbans.ie/patmos-odessa-texas/) - As I watch the horror of war in Ukraine I am reminded of Larry and his forebears. Seeing a revolution coming, they gathered their families and escaped to a new life in America. Will those fleeing today be given that opportunity in the countries they end up in. They need a welcome, writes Fr Bobby
- [China: Covid-19 impacts Sunday liturgies](https://columbans.ie/china-covid-19-impacts-sunday-liturgies/) - Arriving at Wuhan's Holy Family Church shortly after 6 o'clock on Sunday morning, I felt quite unsure about what to expect. A message that had been circulated a couple of days earlier was quite clear in announcing that there would be no Mass on Sunday due to local concerns about Covid-19. However, Wuhan has not
- [Laudato Si Week 2022](https://columbans.ie/laudato-si-week-2022/) - The seventh anniversary of Pope Francis’ Encyclical letter ‘Laudato Si: On Care for our Common Home’ takes place on 24th May. Laudato Si Week is celebrated annually in appreciation of the 2015 Encyclical in which the Pope says, “The entire material universe speaks of God’s love” (#84). Pope Francis has helped Catholics understand the connection
- [Fr John McEvoy Celebrates Fifty in Fiji](https://columbans.ie/fr-john-mcevoy-celebrates-fifty-in-fiji/) - “Do this in memory of me.” Following Christ’s command, on Easter Sunday, 2 April 1972, Bishop John McCormack of Meath ordained John McEvoy and his nine classmates into the priesthood as Columban missionary priests in Dalgan Park, recalls Fr Donal McIlraith. Later that year, Fr John left for Fiji and plunged into the study of
- [Fr Patrick (Paddy) Clarke](https://columbans.ie/fr-patrick-clarke/) - Patrick (‘Paddy’) Clarke was born in Dublin on 22nd March 1931. He was educated at Synge Street CBS and Belvedere College and came to Dalgan in 1948. He was ordained priest on 21st December 1954. In 1955, Paddy was appointed to post-graduate studies in Sociology at Fordham University, New York, USA, and in 1957 was
- [Reflection in March/April 2022 Far East Magazine](https://columbans.ie/reflection-in-march-april-2022-far-east-magazine/) - “Faith disturbs us and continually upsets the balance of our mental conceptions and our social structures. Bursting into a world that perpetually tends to close in upon itself, God brings it the possibility of a harmony that is certainly superior but is to be attained only at the cost of a series of cleavages and
- [Meet a Columban: Fr Ray Scanlon](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-ray-scanlon/) - Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Columban missionary Fr Ray Scanlon about the Church in South Korea, where he worked for many years.
- [Earth Day Should be Every Day](https://columbans.ie/earth-day-should-be-every-day/) - Earth Day should be every day, writes Fr Shay Cullen, as we recognise and celebrate the miracle of life itself on this unique planet, with millions of diverse amazing creatures making up wondrous biodiversity that exists nowhere else in the known universe. How blessed we are to exist at all. We are still unsure of
- [Fiji Farewells Fr JJ](https://columbans.ie/fiji-farewells-fr-jj/) - It was just before midday on Holy Thursday when the Archbishop called to say he would be around shortly to say farewell to Fr JJ. Some time later, he arrived, writes Fr Donal McIllraith. The Archbishop of Suva is Dr Peter Loy Chong and he was accompanied by his Vicar General, Fr Sulio Turagakadivi and
- [Columbans in Chile Grapple with Refugee Crisis](https://columbans.ie/columbans-in-chile-grapple-with-refugee-crisis/) - During October 2021, several Venezuelan women living in Casa Betania, a House of Hospitality for female migrants in the Columban parish of San Columbano, in Santiago, Chile, offered to tell their stories to Columban missionary Fr Dan Harding. Their identities have been changed. The parish also operates a House of Hospitality for men. Why leave
- [Meet a Columban: Katarina Mukai](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-katarina-mukai/) - Columban Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Katarina Mukai from Fiji, who is Director of the Columban Lay Missionary programme in Oceania.
- [Fr Noel Doyle](https://columbans.ie/fr-noel-doyle/) - Noel M. Doyle was born in Mullingar on 24 September 1935. He was educated in Ballinea NS, and at the Christian Brothers’ School in Mullingar. He came to Dalgan in September 1953 and was ordained a priest on 21st December 1959. Assigned to Japan in 1960, once his language studied were completed, Noel served in
- [Synodality : A Missionary Reflection](https://columbans.ie/synodality-a-missionary-reflection/) - Submission from Columban Missionaries in Ireland Conscious of our need to be open to the guiding Spirit, we listened in our meetings as each of us shared some experiences of lived synodality, and also some of the things that had hindered it, in our lives and missions to date. ‘When I am weak, then I
- [Nowhere to Go](https://columbans.ie/nowhere-to-go/) - Watching the collision of hope and horror in Ukraine played out on television screens, people fleeing with their whole belongings in suitcases and plastic bags, I am reminded of stories of settlers from various parts of Philippines flocking into Mindanao after the Second World War, writes Fr Bobby Gilmore. Whoever welcomes a child welcomes me
- [The Hope of Easter](https://columbans.ie/the-hope-of-easter/) - Let us turn our minds and hearts to the spiritual values of life. This is the sacred time of year when we recall the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, the man from Nazareth, writes Fr Shay Cullen. His life commitment to goodness and self-sacrifice as a champion of the poor and the oppressed led
- [Good Friday in the Hills of Ba](https://columbans.ie/good-friday-in-the-hills-of-ba/) - It has always struck me that the Fijian translation of Good Friday is simply and literally, ‘Day of Death’. No massaging, no theological euphemisms, just saying is “as it is”, writes Fr Pat Colgan. Preparations for this day are taken very seriously, and the crosswalks or the dramas with which the people mark the day
- [Holy Thursday: A Call to be of Service to Others](https://columbans.ie/holy-thursday-a-call-to-be-of-service-to-others/) - On Holy Thursday we commemorate Jesus’ washing of the feet of the apostles. Fr Tim Mulroy explains how that ritual reminds priests that they are called to be of service to those who feel worn and faded by the demands and suffering of the world. The wrapping on the small parcel resembled a brown paper
- [Fr Owen Doyle](https://columbans.ie/fr-owen-doyle/) - Owen Doyle was born on 29th June 1934 at Moylough, Co Galway. He was educated at Moylough NS and Garbally Park College, Ballinasloe. He entered Dalgan on September 1952 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1958. The following year he was appointed to further studies in Rome where he was conferred with an STL
- [The Passion Narratives by Fr Kevin McHugh](https://columbans.ie/the-passion-narratives-by-fr-kevin-mchugh/) - As we enter Holy Week the thoughts and prayers of Christians will centre around the events which lead up to the Passion and Death of Jesus. These are described in the Four Gospels by the Evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke and Johh. The vast majority of Catholics have never had the opportunity to study the Passion
- [A Hopeful Start to Holy Week in Ba](https://columbans.ie/a-hopeful-start-to-holy-week-in-ba/) - Palm Sunday this year was a very busy one for me, serving as the lone priest here in Christ the King Ba in Fiji, writes Fr Pat Colgan. We have three Masses each Sunday, one in the main town church followed by two in village churches. Palm Sunday’s liturgies were obviously longer, encompassing both the
- [Palm Sunday: Talking Truth to Power that Exploits the Poor](https://columbans.ie/palm-sunday-talking-truth-to-power-that-exploits-the-poor/) - Christians everywhere will be celebrating Palm Sunday this weekend, a day when the Gospel account tells of Jesus of Nazareth being escorted by his supporters into the city of Jerusalem. They waved branches of palm trees and called him Messiah, a role he never claimed himself, writes Fr Shay Cullen. He was a charismatic leader
- [How will Humans Cope with a Serious Rise in Sea Levels?](https://columbans.ie/how-will-humans-cope-with-a-serious-rise-in-sea-levels/) - For the past two and a half centuries, humans have burned fossil fuels to heat their homes and travel by train, cars, and planes. Burning fossil fuel has caused climate change and a rise in sea levels. If, during the next three decades, the average temperature reaches two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels this will
- [Fr Aodh Eamonn O’Halpin](https://columbans.ie/fr-aodh-eamonn-ohalpin/) - Aodh was born in Dundalk on 31st January 1934. He was educated at Presentation Brothers, Letterkenny, St Columban’s NS, Letterkenny, and St Eunan’s College, Letterkenny. He came to St Columban’s, Dalgan Park, Navan in September 1952 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1958. The following year he was appointed to the Philippines and to
- [Stations of the Cross for the Care of Creation](https://columbans.ie/stations-of-the-cross-for-the-care-of-creation/) - Fr Liam O’Callaghan and members of the Diocesan Ecology Commission worked with 49 participants from various parishes and schools, who attended a Lenten Preparation Programme run by Fr Tomás King and the Joti Educational and Cultural Centre of Hyderabad Diocese in Pakistan, on a new Stations of the Cross. The aim of the day’s work
- [Fr Daniel O'Gorman](https://columbans.ie/fr-daniel-ogorman/) - Fr Daniel O’Gorman was born on the 4th March 1932 in Tullaherin, Bennetsbridge, Co Kilkenny. His received his early education in Bennetsbridge NS and St Kieran’s, Kilkenny. He joined the Columbans in Navan in 1950 and was ordained there on 21 December 1956. Korea was still a war devastated country when Dan arrived in 1957.
- [Fr Patrick (Paddy) Dooher](https://columbans.ie/fr-patrick-paddy-dooher/) - Fr Patrick (Paddy) Dooher was born on 21 January 1943 in Donaghedy, Co Tyrone and was educated in Loughash PS and St Columb’s, Derry. He joined the Columbans in Dalgan Park, Navan in 1960 and was ordained there on 21 December 1966. Paddy then did postgraduate studies in Rome before being appointed to the staff
- [Mark Horvath: Equality, Justice, Inclusion](https://columbans.ie/mark-horvath-equality-justice-inclusion/) - This article by Megan Nolan of St Michael’s Holy Faith Secondary School Finglas, Dublin came third in the Columban Schools Media Competition (2022) in Ireland. The theme was, ‘Anyone Can Make a Difference: 21st Century Changemakers’. It is illustrated by Amy Fleming of Scoil Phobail Sliabh Lauchlan, Rathmore, Co Kerry, who came third in the
- [Synodality: Retrieving the Richness of our earlier Christian Tradition](https://columbans.ie/synodality-retrieving-the-richness-of-our-earlier-christian-tradition/) - Fr Tom O’Reilly provides some important insights and historical context on the Synodal Process. Purpose of the Universal Synod The basic meaning of synodality is ‘journeying together,’ walking together on a path. The Synod logo is basically an image of people ‘on the way.’ The purpose of the universal Synod announced by Pope Francis is
- [Collisions of History](https://columbans.ie/collisions-of-history/) - When hope and horror collide Home no longer a hide People are forced to seek Havens in the belief That humanity will offer relief To the destitute, evicted, grieved. No time to look back Remembering will have to wait Be shared in stories Preserved in tourist brochure memory To
- [Fr Richard O’Sullivan](https://columbans.ie/fr-richard-osullivan/) - Fr Richard (Dick) O’Sullivan was born at Kilgarvan, Co. Kerry on 17 February 1936. He was educated at Kilgarvan Boys School and at St Brendan’s College, Killarney, Co Kerry. He came to Dalgan in September 1953 and was ordained priest on 21 December 1959. He was appointed to Fiji and during his first term he
- [Ramadan: Witnessing to the Gospel through Christian-Muslim dialogue](https://columbans.ie/ramadan-witnessing-to-the-gospel-through-christian-muslim-dialogue/) - Columbans learned how to be missionaries in the countries in which they worked, writes Fr Sean McDonagh, as he recalls Columban efforts to promote interfaith dialogue with Muslims in Mindanao. I was ordained a Columban missionary priest on Easter Sunday 1969 and was appointed to work in the Philippines. Upon arriving in Manila in September
- [Meet a Columban: Lay Missionary Michael Javier](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-lay-missionary-michael-javier/) - In this episode, Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Columban lay missionary, Michael Javier, about his time in Myanmar and the coup in February 2021 and its aftermath.
- [One Voice is All it Takes](https://columbans.ie/one-voice-is-all-it-takes/) - This article by Erin Boylan of St Catherine’s College in Armagh came second in the Columban Schools Media Competition (2022) in Ireland. The theme was ‘Anyone Can Make a Difference: 21st Century Changemakers’. It is illustrated by Veronica Littlewood, also of St Catherine’s College, Armagh, who came second in the Image section of the competition.
- [Facebook’s Annus Horribilis](https://columbans.ie/facebooks-annus-horribilis/) - Criticism of Facebook intensified in 2021. Fr Seán McDonagh looks at former employee Frances Haugen’s allegations that Facebook put “astronomical profits before people”. In my book, Robots, Ethics and the Future of Jobs, I described how in 2016, at the time of the US presidential election, Cambridge Analytica, a British political consulting firm that combined
- [Winning Article and Image in Columban Schools Media Competition 2022](https://columbans.ie/winning-article-and-image-in-columban-schools-media-competition-2022/) - Eimear Crawford of St Louis Grammar School, Ballymena wrote the winning article in this year’s Columban Schools Media Competition on Fr Alec Reid, who was pivotal to the peace process in Northern Ireland. William Scholes, Features Editor of the Irish News, described the article as: “Fluently written, thoroughly researched and inspired by the Beatitudes, this
- [Winners Announced in 2022 Columban Schools Competition](https://columbans.ie/winners-announced-in-2022-columban-schools-competition/) - Winners have been announced in the 2022 Columban Schools Media competition for young people on the subject ‘Anyone Can Make a Difference: 21st Century Changemakers’, run by the Columban Missionary Society in Britain and Ireland. Young people 13-18 years were asked to consider: Who in the world today is doing something about inequality, injustice, exclusion
- [Kitchens in the Sky](https://columbans.ie/kitchens-in-the-sky/) - With Columban support, a religious Sister is helping feed mountain-top shanty-town dwellers in Covid ravaged Peru, reports Columban missionary Fr John Boles. “Die from Covid or die from hunger. Not much of a choice.” Sr Isabel Miguelez spells out the stark dilemma facing the poorest members of her parish. San Albino forms part of the
- [A St Patrick’s Day Tale from Chile](https://columbans.ie/a-st-patricks-day-tale-from-chile/) - Fr Michael Hoban came to Chile on St Patrick’s Day, 17th March 1972. Most of his missionary life has been spent in Chile, aside from some time spent pursuing studies and serving on the General Council. He speaks from a new squatter settlement in the Diocese of Iquique in the north of the country. The
- [The Power of the Innocent](https://columbans.ie/the-power-of-the-innocent/) - A new law setting the age of consent at 16 years old has just been passed in the Philippines. Any sexual act with a minor 16 years and below will be statutory rape carrying a life sentence. Standing against child sexual abuse, campaigning for improved child protection laws, and helping child survivors to heal, testify
- [China Prepares for Rescheduled UN Convention on Biodiversity](https://columbans.ie/china-prepares-to-host-rescheduled-un-convention-on-biodiversity/) - Traditional Chinese paintings that show the natural world depend on just two colours to convey their meaning. Black ink on white paper is the only approach available to the artist. Another feature of these paintings is that a huge part of the natural world can be represented on paper that hangs from near the ceiling
- [The Patient John Gordon](https://columbans.ie/the-patient-john-gordon/) - Fr Bobby Gilmore recalls John Gordon's patient and compassionate approach within the faith community in Chester Castle in Jamaica, including his deft handing of one member intent on 'policing' the faith of others. I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me. (John 10-14) John Gordon was a convert from
- [Tribute to Columbans' Role in the Columban Way](https://columbans.ie/tribute-to-columbans-role-in-the-columban-way/) - Fianna Fáil Councillor, Fintan Phelan, paid tribute to the Columban Fathers and Columban Sisters who, he said, played “a pivotal role” in steering the new Columban Way heritage trail to completion, culminating in its official launch last weekend. Football legend and walking enthusiast, Paul McGrath, officially launched the Columban Way in County Carlow on Saturday
- [Sunday in the Rain](https://columbans.ie/sunday-in-the-rain/) - Cancelling Masses and sacramental services in favour of direct aid to flood evacuees - is this the ‘new normal’ for a priest on Sundays in the Pacific, asks Columban missionary Fr Pat Colgan. Heavy rain began in Ba on the night of 4-5 February. It continued right through Saturday and on/off on Sunday until about
- [The Plastic That Kills](https://columbans.ie/the-plastic-that-kills/) - Phasing out plastic by reducing demand is the only option writes Columban missionary, Fr Shay Cullen. It is encouraging to see active youth groups walking along beaches and riverbanks scooping up discarded plastic wrappings, bottles, bags, slippers and plastic junk that are causing not only unsightliness but are also a source of deadly toxic chemicals
- [An Tairseach’s Autumn Programme](https://columbans.ie/an-tairseachs-autumn-programme/) - Dr John Feehan is hosting one of the autumn seminars at An Tairseach. More details are on www.antairseach.ie or Telephone (0404) 61833 Autumn Renewal Programmes 2021 Exploring Spirituality in the Context of an Evolving Universe, an Endangered Earth in the Christian Tradition Mini-Sabbaticals Option 1 – 12th September to 8th October Cost: €1,975 Includes course content, accommodation,
- [Let's Walk Together to Cleenish Island](https://columbans.ie/lets-walk-together-to-cleenish-island/) - We are inviting people to take part in a one-day pilgrim walk to Cleenish Island’s Columbanus site. St Columbanus came to Cleenish Island as a young man to study under St Sinell, who had founded a monastery on the shores of Lough Erne. The site that we are visiting celebrates the legacy of Columbanus who
- [Sensational Swans](https://columbans.ie/sensational-swans/) - If you are out and about and see large, white birds on the water, chances are you will know their name. The Mute Swan is one bird which is familiar to all of us, writes Elizabeth McArdle. These stately, serene creatures were originally wild but now frequent human neighbourhoods such as urban lakes, farm ponds,
- [Fr Martin Koroiciri is on mission in Chile](https://columbans.ie/fr-martin-koroiciri-is-on-mission-in-chile/) - Fr Martin Koroiciri was ordained a priest at Suva Cathedral on St Columban's Day in November 2018. Born in Suva, (Fiji) Fr Martin spent his childhood in the Columban parish of Labasa. After school he worked for a computer company. He graduated in November 2018 from the Pacific Regional Seminary (PRS) with a Bachelor of
- [A Historic First](https://columbans.ie/a-historic-first/) - Francis Xavier La Aung Nbwi and Peter Kyaw Zaw (pronounced Cho-zo) are the first Myanmar seminarians to come through the Columban seminary system, writes Fr Donal McIlraith. They both grew up in the Kachin area of Myanmar, an area evangelised by the Columbans from the 1930s until 1979 when political events drove them out of
- [God’s Work](https://columbans.ie/gods-work/) - Sr Abbie O’Sullivan recalls how Lady Frances Moloney and twelve companions began their training one hundred years ago in February 1922 as members of the Missionary Sisters of St Columban. People’s activity is usually their response to the historical situations in which they find themselves. In 1918, Lady Frances Moloney had in mind “some kind
- [Columbans Mark Interfaith Harmony Week](https://columbans.ie/columbans-mark-interfaith-harmony-week/) - The Missionary Society of St Columban's JPIC-IRD ministries hosted a webinar on Peace and Nonviolence to mark Interfaith Harmony Week. The discussion was moderated by Vida Hequilan. Speakers were: Samantha Cherian, Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations Marie Dennis, Pax Christi International - Catholic Nonviolence Initiative Amandeep Kaur Maan, UK Yorkshire and Humber Climate Commission You can
- [Missionaries are Human](https://columbans.ie/missionaries-are-human/) - Fr Frank Hoare recalls the arrival of the first Columban missionaries in Fiji 70 years ago this month and highlights some of the challenges missionaries faced in adapting to a new culture. Thirteen young Columban priests arrived in a hot, humid, and hurricane-ravaged Suva, capital of Fiji, seventy years ago on 22 February 1952. They
- [Fr Sean McDonagh speaks about synodality and the climate crisis](https://columbans.ie/fr-sean-mcdonagh-speaks-about-synodality-and-the-climate-crisis/) - Synodality won't be relevant to younger generations unless our ‘walking together’ addresses the issue that will soon have the greatest impact upon their lives. That was Columban ecologist Fr Sean McDonagh‘s stark warning to a Zoom gathering of over 160 people on Thursday 27th January. Organised by the Association of Catholics in Ireland (ACI) and
- [From the bottom of our hearts: Thank You!](https://columbans.ie/from-the-bottom-of-our-hearts-thank-you/) - “Why would people so far away care so much for us?” one person asked Fr Eamon Sheridan when he told people at the Rebirth Rehabilitation Centre in Myanmar's Kachin State that readers of the Far East had donated enough money to finish the building of the dormitory for women. Not only that, but we now
- [Compulsive Gambling](https://columbans.ie/compulsive-gambling/) - New Year sees many of us resolve to tackle our destructive habits. Kwon Byung-hee [Augustine] recalls Columban missionary Fr Paul White who established a recovery programme for gambling addicts and helped thousands of Koreans turn their lives around. Fr Paul White played a major role in helping Korean society admit that compulsive gambling was an
- [Competition: Who are Society’s Changemakers?](https://columbans.ie/competition-who-are-societys-changemakers/) - There is just two weeks to the deadline of this year’s Columban Schools Media Competition. The theme is: ‘Anyone can make a difference: 21st Century Changemakers’ and students are invited to enter an article or an image by 11 February 2022. Young people aged 13-18 years are asked to consider: Who in the world today is
- [Opposing Violence Against Women and Children](https://columbans.ie/opposing-violence-against-women-and-children/) - Fr Shay Cullen asks why is there a growing level of violence, physical and sexual, against women and children among males? Most people turn away from bad news especially during the coronavirus pandemic but it is causing greater levels of sexual abuse and violence against women and children as lockdowns continue. We must ask, so
- [Beggar my Neighbour](https://columbans.ie/beggar-my-neighbour/) - The eco system of the mighty Mekong River is on the verge of irreversible collapse warns Columban missionary Fr Alo Connaughton. The Mekong River, Mae Nam (mother water) Kong, as the Thais call it, starts from the melting snow of Tibet and flows for 2,800 miles through five other Southeast Asian countries on its
- [Tropical Cyclone Cody Devastates Fiji](https://columbans.ie/tropical-cyclone-cody-devastates-fiji/) - Sr Caroline Vaitkunas RSM, Peace, Ecology and Justice Team member at the Columban Mission Centre in Essendon, Australia reports on the urgent need for assistance in Fiji in the wake of Category 1 Cyclone Cody, which hit the country on 10th January and caused widespread destruction. The Cyclone struck just ahead of the violent eruption
- [Meet a Columban: Fr Paul Glynn](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-paul-glynn/) - Fr Jim Mulroney talks to Columban missionary Fr Paul Glynn from Ireland, who is the Regional Director in the Philippines, where he has worked since he was a seminarian. He discusses the current political situation in the Philippines and the vast gap between the rich and the poor. Fr Paul highlights the negative legacy of
- [Columbans Join Week of Prayer for Christian Unity](https://columbans.ie/columbans-join-week-of-prayer-for-christian-unity/) - The Missionary Society of St Columban is joining the global celebration of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The theme for 2022 is: “We saw the star in the East, and we came to worship Him.” The scriptural base for the theme comes from the Gospel account of the Magi’s visit to pay homage to Jesus
- [Columban JPIC Coordinator appointed to Vatican Taskforce](https://columbans.ie/columban-jpic-coordinator-appointed-to-vatican-taskforce/) - Society leader of the Missionary Society of St Columban, Fr Tim Mulroy, has announced the appointment of the Society's Central Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Coordinator, Amy W. Echeverria, as a Co-Coordinator of the Vatican's Ecology Taskforce. The Taskforce is a subdivision of the Dicastery for Promoting Human Development. “Amy will bring her
- [New Book by Fr Maurice Hogan](https://columbans.ie/new-book-by-fr-maurice-hogan/) - Biblical symbolism still has a powerful appeal today to change lives, to give reasons for living and dying, and a solid hope for the future, argues Columban missionary Fr Maurice Hogan in his new book. A Little Less than Angels: Sketch of a Biblical Anthropology is published by Veritas and can serve as an introduction
- [The Synodal Path - New Series in the Far East Magazine](https://columbans.ie/the-synodal-path-new-series-in-the-far-east-magazine/) - Last October Pope Francis launched a worldwide Synod which he hopes will involve everyone in the Church. This Synod will involve the whole People of God, not just the bishops, and it has been described as the greatest event in the Church since the Second Vatican Council. The final part of the Synod will take
- [Reflection for 2022](https://columbans.ie/reflection-for-2022/) - ‘Tempus fugit’ – ‘Time flies’ as the ancient philosopher proclaimed. How right he was! We are now beginning 2022. Some people will make New Year Resolutions to try to live in a more authentic and meaningful way. Many of us quickly forget our promises or are faithful just now and then. Perhaps for 2022 we
- [2021 Review from Fr Liam in Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/2021-review-from-fr-liam-in-pakistan/) - The long shadow of Covid has hung over the world causing much suffering and death, as well as substantial economic loss. According to the WHO, as of 21 December 2021, worldwide over 275 million people have been infected with Covid and 5.36 million deaths reported, but experts see those figures almost certainly to be an
- [China: Christmas in Xiantao](https://columbans.ie/china-christmas-in-xiantao/) - Beginning the Vigil Mass on Christmas Eve, a gentle word from Fr Paul encouraged the people to be grateful for the opportunity to gather to celebrate the Nativity at the Church of the Holy Trinity in Xiantao, about 100 km west of Wuhan. From where I was sitting in the bright and spacious church that
- ['Thank You' from Society Leader Fr Tim Mulroy](https://columbans.ie/thank-you-from-society-leader-fr-tim-mulroy/) - The Society Leader of the Columbans, Fr Tim Mulroy, expresses his gratitude to all Columban friends and benefactors for their fidelity and generosity over the past year despite the pandemic challenges and difficulties.
- [New Year's Message from Fr Raymond Husband](https://columbans.ie/new-years-message-from-fr-raymond-husband/) - In the January/February issue of the Far East magazine, the regional director of the Columbans in Ireland, Fr Raymond Husband, writes in the Editorial: Over the next two years we will hear a lot about synodality in our churches, parishes and in the Catholic media. The Far East magazine launches a new series of articles
- [Christmas Visitors](https://columbans.ie/christmas-visitors/) - Fr Bobby Gilmore recalls an unexpected arrival on Christmas day and challenges us to ask who is being excluded this Christmas? Just as we are never sure that we love God unless we love our fellow men and women, so too are we never sure that we have love at all unless our love
- [Columbans Wish You a Happy and Peaceful Christmas](https://columbans.ie/columbans-wish-you-a-happy-and-peaceful-christmas/) - Wishing all our supporters, friends, families and benefactors a happy, peaceful and healthy Christmas. With gratitude for your prayers and support for the life-giving work of Columban missionaries around the world. This is Fr John Burger's Editorial in the December 2021 issue of the Far East magazine. The Shimmering Promise of Bethlehem In 2013, after
- [Columban seminarians wish you a 'Happy Christmas!'](https://columbans.ie/columban-seminarians-wish-you-a-happy-christmas/) - Wishing all our supporters, benefactors, friends and families a very happy Christmas! Here are some of our seminarians sending you heartfelt greetings this Christmas!
- [Fr Hugh MacMahon interviewed about his new book](https://columbans.ie/fr-hugh-macmahon-interviewed-about-his-new-book/) - Radio Kerry interviewed Fr Hugh MacMahon about his new book, Voices from the Desert: The Lost Legacy of the Skelligs. He explained to Mary Fagan, presenter of Horizons programme, how a visit to the Skelligs some years ago prompted him to write the book. You can hear the interview here: https://www.radiokerry.ie/podcasts/horizons/horizons-december-12th-2021-262272 The interview with
- [Behind the Bars of Bangkok](https://columbans.ie/behind-the-bars-of-bangkok/) - Columban missionary Fr Alo Connaughton speaks to Fr Miguel Garaibazal, a colleague at Saengtham College in Bangkok, about his role with a team that visits nine prisons in Thailand. Prison visitation is one of your own many pastoral roles. Could you summarise what you actually do? We have an office in Bangkok which coordinates visits
- [Christmas Reflection from the Far East magazine](https://columbans.ie/christmas-reflection-from-the-far-east-magazine/) - She was a young Jewish girl who was engaged to the young village carpenter. Her parents, Anna and Joachim, were very happy with her choice. Mary loved Joseph who was an upright man, gentle, well known and well liked in the village. He made the best furniture and farm implements. But God had other plans
- [Meet a Columban - Fr Bernard McDermott](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-bernard-mcdermott/) - Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Columban Fr Bernard McDermott from Britain who has worked as a missionary in the Philippines, Taiwan, Australia and the UK. Recalling his posting to the Philippines after ordination, he says it was a very positive and transformative experience.
- [UCA News article highlights role of Columbans in Kachin State](https://columbans.ie/uca-news-article-highlights-role-of-columbans-in-kachin-state/) - This article - Kachin Catholics make their mark on Myanmar's strife-torn frontier - by John Zaw was published by UCA News on 1st December 2021. https://www.ucanews.com/news/kachin-catholics-make-their-mark-on-myanmars-strife-torn-frontier/95133?fbclid=IwAR0svRfcSRPBSvZDJ4YmdCv2Zw0zLLKumQy3wVXbkR-AUDE7QYlH1ghJfJc Challenging violence, poverty and lack of education, Kachin Catholics have emerged from the shadows of foreign missioners These days Father Paul Lahpai Awng Dang worries less about the spillover of
- [Preventing Violence against Children and Women](https://columbans.ie/preventing-violence-against-children-and-women/) - Ever since the story of Adam and Eve, likely written by a man, some men have tended to blame women for male misfortunes, weaknesses and their tendency to violent behaviour, writes Fr Shay Cullen. Overwhelming research has shown that most violent acts - physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, and verbal - against women and children have
- [Behind the Glitter](https://columbans.ie/behind-the-glitter/) - As we prepare for Christmas, Columban missionary Fr Jim Mulroney reminds us to heed Pope Francis’s words: purchasing is always a moral act and not simply an economic transaction. “Ask about the labour, not the label,” Australian troubadour, Dermot Dorgan, says in his award-winning song on responsible consumerism. The same question could also apply to
- [An Autumn Day in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/an-autumn-day-in-dalgan-2/) - ‘An Autumn Day in Dalgan with John Feehan’ was hosted by the Columban Ecological Institute on Saturday 6th of November 2021, writes Elizabeth McArdle. Due to Covid restrictions, the day was restricted to Columbans only. The flyer promoted the day as: “A day to explore some of the wonders of this season of mists
- [Homily for St Columban’s Day in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/homily-for-st-columbans-day-in-dalgan/) - Columban comes across to us as a complex character: humble and haughty; harsh and tender; a warrior and a dove; a stickler for the Rule, yet impetuous; a commanding character; a Prophet more than a Priest, Fr Liam Carey told the community in Dalgan on 23rd November. “Do this in memory of me”. We give
- [A Parish Confirmed in Faith on its Feast Day](https://columbans.ie/a-parish-confirmed-in-faith-on-its-feast-day/) - Fr Pat Colgan, parish priest of Christ the King in Ba, writes about the 20th anniversary celebration of the opening of this church in Fiji, which was marked by a Confirmation ceremony presided over by Archbishop Peter Loy Chong. French Catholic missionaries first arrived in Fiji in 1844 at Lakeba, Lau. Missions were established in
- [COP26: The Real Work Begins](https://columbans.ie/cop26-the-real-work-begins/) - Ellen Teague, along with other Columban representatives, travelled to Glasgow to participate in events focused on COP26. In this blog, she asks where the movement goes from here. Have you ever experienced fried Macaroni Cheese or had two weeks of conversations through masks? Have you sung for a climate vigil that was broadcast globally or
- ["St Columban’s writings will help us in fight against climate change"](https://columbans.ie/st-columbans-writings-will-help-us-in-the-fight-against-climate-change/) - To mark the Feast of St Columban (23rd November), we publish Fr Sean McDonagh’s sermon for an ecumenical service in Bangor Abbey in Co Down. From Bangor St Columban set out on a 1400-mile journey across western Europe in 585AD. Good evening and thank you for inviting me here to preach at this Columban service
- [Columban Vocations](https://columbans.ie/columban-vocations/) - Columban students in formation in the Philippines share their vocation stories, experiences and challenges of studying and working on mission during the Covid-19 pandemic. If you are interested in Journeying with the Columbans, read more here: https://columbans.ie/join-us/
- [A Survival Kit for Life](https://columbans.ie/a-survival-kit-for-life/) - While suffering with Covid-19, people around Columban lay missionary, Mereani Nailevu, helped him move from fear to seeing the culture of care surrounding him. “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous
- [All Souls Marked in Hong Kong](https://columbans.ie/all-souls-marked-in-hong-kong/) - The feast of All Souls Day was celebrated in Hong Kong by a number of Columbans who joined the Friends of the Columban Sisters to visit St Michael’s Catholic Cemetery in Happy Valley. In keeping with tradition, they visited the graves of the Columban Sisters and priests laid to rest there, and offered prayer and
- [Reflection: Far East magazine November 2021](https://columbans.ie/reflection-far-east-magazine-november-2021/) - November is a month of special commemoration. It is the month during which we remember the members of our immediate families, our friends, communities, people of our parishes and all those who have no one to remember them. They have gone to Eternal Life and one day we will join them again. In the seasonal
- [People of Integrity and Virtue will Save the Planet](https://columbans.ie/people-of-integrity-and-virtue-will-save-the-planet/) - There is no more urgent time than now for world leaders and political decision-makers at COP26 to listen to their consciences and millions of people crying out for an end to the damage, pain and hurt that climate change and global warming are causing, writes Fr Shay Cullen. This could be the last chance to
- [Fr Raymond Husband re-elected as Regional Director](https://columbans.ie/fr-raymond-husband-re-elected-as-regional-director/) - Fr Raymond Husband has been re-elected as Regional Director of the Missionary Society of St Columban in Ireland. The Navan-native led the region over the past three years. He will be assisted in his next term of office by Fr Padraig O’Donovan, who replaces Fr Gerry Neylon. Fr Padraig served two terms as Vice Director
- [Remembering](https://columbans.ie/remembering/) - Ahead of Remembrance Sunday, Fr Bobby Gilmore recalls the toll World War I took on his granduncle who was gassed while serving with the US military. They were young and vibrant full of awe they waved him off to war to end all wars. One a young wife the other a younger sister. Sixty years
- [Columban Missionaries urge ambitious action at COP26](https://columbans.ie/columban-missionaries-urge-ambitious-action-at-cop26/) - The leadership of the Columban Missionaries is urging governments gathering for COP26 in Glasgow to agree and commit to ambitious policies and processes that protect our common home. We take seriously the warning by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres who spoke of the findings in the sixth Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report (2021).
- [COP26 and the Perils of Climate Change by Fr Sean McDonagh](https://columbans.ie/cop26-and-the-perils-of-climate-change-by-fr-sean-mcdonagh/) - The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was established by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1988. The objective of the IPCC was to provide governments at all levels with scientific information that they can use to develop climate policies. Any report drawn up by the scientists who worked
- [Climate Change and the Churches](https://columbans.ie/climate-change-and-the-churches/) - Ahead of the COP26 summit in Glasgow, Columban missionary, Fr Sean McDonagh explains why the Catholic Church and all Churches have a moral responsibility to care for the earth and support efforts to halt climate change and prevent an ecological disaster.
- [Fr Seamus Egan](https://columbans.ie/fr-seamus-egan/) - Seamus Egan was born in Ballybrehony, Claremorris on 2 February 1943. Educated at Ballybrehony NS and St Colman’s College, Claremorris, he came to St Columban’s, Navan in September 1960. He was ordained priest on 21st December 1966. In 1967 he was appointed to Chile as his older brother Pat had been seven years previously. After
- [World Mission Sunday 24th October](https://columbans.ie/world-mission-sunday-24th-october/) - World Mission Sunday, the Pope’s annual appeal for spiritual and financial support for the work of overseas mission and missionaries, is celebrated on Sunday 24th October. This year’s theme is: ‘We Cannot Remain Silent – We cannot but speak about what we have seen and heard’ (Acts 4:20). It is a message of hope – Jesus Christ
- [A Life Lived on the Line to Save Others](https://columbans.ie/a-life-lived-on-the-line-to-save-others/) - Adapted from an obituary of Philip Noel Dunne by Columban Fr Pat O’Donoghue which was published in the Irish Times on 21 May 2021. Philip Noel Dunne died of COVID-19 at his Colorado home in the United States in December last year, but his death means far more than one more statistic to the many
- [Days of Light and Darkness in the Catholic Church](https://columbans.ie/days-of-light-and-darkness-in-the-catholic-church/) - These are days of darkness and light for many in the Catholic Church, writes Columban missionary Fr Shay Cullen. The horrific exposes of clerical sexual abuse against children around the world - in the United States, Ireland, Australia, Poland, Germany, Austria and the latest in France - are stunning and shocking and there are more
- [Fr Gerard Bellew](https://columbans.ie/fr-gerard-bellew/) - Fr Gerard Bellew was born in Dundalk on the 15th March 1938. He was educated in the CBS primary and secondary schools in Dundalk before joining the Columbans in Navan in 1955. He was ordained on 20th December 1961. His first appointment was to post graduate studies in UCD while also acting as dean at
- [Music – A Bridge Across Boundaries](https://columbans.ie/music-a-bridge-across-boundaries/) - Celebrating lockdown Mass in Hindi provided Fr Frank Hoare with an insight into music's ability to cross boundaries of culture and connect people. Fiji’s Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, like many others, realised the importance of social media when Covid19 caused all churches to close down. English is seen as the bridge language in Fiji where
- [Fr Sean Brazil](https://columbans.ie/fr-sean-brazil/) - Fr Sean Brazil was born in Dublin on 14 January 1932. He attended the Christian Brothers in Synge Street, Dublin before joining the Columbans in Dalgan in 1948. Ordained there in December 1954, he went to Korea in 1955. Sean was a man who liked a challenge and was ready to test his limits in
- [China: Tribute to Fr Ignatius Cao Junliang killed in car crash](https://columbans.ie/tribute-to-fr-ignatius-cao-junliang-killed-in-car-crash-in-china/) - A mere five weeks ago I sat beside Fr Ignatius Cao Junliang at a wedding reception in Wuhan. Although it was my first time to meet him, I had heard about him many times from the grandmother of the bridegroom whose wedding reception we were attending. Born in 1980 to a sick and undernourished mother,
- [Reflection : September/October 2021 Far East magazine](https://columbans.ie/reflection-september-october-2021-far-east-magazine/) - All you who seek a comfort sure in trouble and distress Whatever sorrows vex your mind or guilt your soul oppress Jesus who gave Himself for you upon the Cross to die Opens to you His Sacred Heart Oh, to that Heart draw near. If I could stand before the crucifixion of Jesus on Calvary,
- [Columban Mission Ireland – Facing Challenges Through Covid](https://columbans.ie/columban-mission-ireland-facing-challenges-through-covid/) - When you are facing a common challenge like Covid - it brings people together. Learn how the Columbans continued their mission during the pandemic. Read our Annual Report to learn more about our work: SSC Annual Report 2021
- [The Bodhisattva Kuanyin in Hong Kong](https://columbans.ie/the-bodhisattva-kuanyin-in-hong-kong/) - When Covid restrictions in Hong Kong eased, a group of Columbans, including Fr Brian Vale, visited the Buddhist Tsz Shan Monastery and that set them thinking about the inculturation of Buddhism into many different Asian cultures. Early in September a small group of Columbans visited the Buddhist Tsz Shan Monastery in Tai Po, Hong Kong.
- [Ambassador praises Columbans' “selfless service” to Koreans](https://columbans.ie/ambassador-praises-columbans-selfless-service-to-koreans/) - The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, HE Mr Ki-hwan Kweon, paid tribute to Columban missionaries’ “selfless service to the Korean people” and said the Society had “ultimately assisted us in securing our freedoms”. On a visit to Dalgan Park on Wednesday 23rd September, Ambassador Ki-hwan Kweon recalled those “Columban missionaries who put themselves in
- [From Bantry to Korea - Fr Donal O'Keeffe](https://columbans.ie/from-bantry-to-korea-fr-donal-okeeffe/) - Earlier this year Columban missionary, Fr Donal O’Keeffe, was honoured as ‘Immigrant of the Year’ by the Korean State in recognition of his 40 years of dedication to supporting the marginalised in Korean society. Here he speaks to Fr Malachy Smyth about his missionary journey from Bantry to Korea.
- [Thank You From the Bottom of our Hearts](https://columbans.ie/thank-you-from-the-bottom-of-our-hearts/) - The response to Fr Eamon Sheridan’s article about building a women's dormitory in Myanmar’s Kachin State to help women with drug and alcohol addiction was phenomenal! The centre is part of a life-giving support programme which the Church offers drug addicts and alcoholics in the troubled region. When I told people in the Rebirth Rehabilitation
- [“Bombed but never Broken”](https://columbans.ie/bombed-but-never-broken/) - Deep in the industrial heartland of northern England, Fr John Boles encountered a parish with a remarkable tale to tell. "Every picture tells a story", goes the expression. However, it could just as well read, "Every parish tells a story". That is certainly the case with Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Birkenhead, a
- [Celebrating Mass for an Olympic hero](https://columbans.ie/celebrating-mass-for-an-olympic-hero/) - It's not every day a member of your parish brings home a gold Olympic medal, writes Columban missionary Fr Pat Colgan from Fiji. I was very happy to meet Olympian Waisea Nacuqu from Votua after his two weeks' quarantine, plus some 'down time', in the village. I have known Waisea for a long time and
- [Anniversary Mass for Fr Rufus Halley in Butlerstown](https://columbans.ie/anniversary-mass-for-fr-rufus-halley-in-butlerstown/) - Mass was celebrated on Sunday 5th September 2021 in Butlerstown parish, Co Waterford to mark the 20th anniversary of the killing of former parishioner, Fr Rufus Halley. Due to Covid restrictions, the number permitted to attend was restricted. Fr Donie Hogan, a classmate of Fr Rufus’, reports on the day. The parish priest Fr Pat
- [Greatest Depravity: 12-year-olds sold as 'Baby Brides'](https://columbans.ie/greatest-depravity-12-year-olds-sold-as-baby-brides/) - Why are Philippine senators and members of the House of Representatives delaying the completion and passing of vital historical laws that will protect children presently at risk of being victims of sexual abuse and sold as 'baby brides' for the sexual gratification of old men, asks Fr Shay Cullen. Allegedly, some senators are delaying the
- [Walking to Save the Planet](https://columbans.ie/walking-to-save-the-planet/) - Ahead of COP26 Columban Fr John Boles joins a group of young Christian activists walking for climate justice. The ripening corn sparkled in the sunlight as we set off. Birds chattered in the bushes around the fields. Two copses of trees perfectly framed the tower of a medieval village church. In short, it was a
- [Acts of the Apostles:  Vision for a Synodal Church](https://columbans.ie/acts-of-the-apostles-vision-for-a-synodal-church/) - Where is the Spirit leading the Church? That is the underlying question in the Acts of the Apostles according to Fr Tom O’Reilly, who suggests it is also the basic question of the synodal process today. The Vatican does not postpone major events without very good reasons. Just before Pentecost this year, Pope Francis postponed
- [Reflections from our Columban seminarians: John Naw Graung](https://columbans.ie/reflections-from-our-columban-seminarians-john-naw-graung/) - John Naw Graung from Myanmar is a Second Year Pre-Theology student at the Loyola School of Theology (LST) in Manila. For me, being part of the Loyola School of Theology (LST) is an incredible opportunity to engage with different people, students from different religious communities and many countries, in order to share our experiences, our
- [Reflections from our Columban seminarians: Rev Elbert Balbastro](https://columbans.ie/reflections-from-our-columban-seminarians-rev-elbert-balbastro/) - Columban Rev Elbert Balbastro was ordained a deacon earlier this year. He writes about his studies at the Loyola School of Theology (LST) in Manila. The Loyola School of Theology (LST) is a component of Ateneo de Manila University and has been providing quality theological and pastoral education for many years under the direction of
- [Columbans Get Ready for COP26](https://columbans.ie/columbans-get-ready-for-cop26/) - An Overview by Amy Echeverria with contributions from Ellen Teague (UK) and Fr Peter O’Neill, SSC (Australia) The UK will host the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow on 31 October –12 November 2021. COP26 is a critical opportunity to accelerate action towards the goals of the Paris Agreement and
- [Honouring Fr Rufus Halley](https://columbans.ie/marking-the-20th-anniversary-of-the-killing-of-fr-rufus-halley/) - On 28th August 2001, Fr Rufus Halley, a Columban missionary from Co Waterford was murdered in Malabang in the Philippines in a failed kidnap attempt. He is remembered by his colleagues and family 20 years later for his faith, welcoming smile and as a peace-maker among Christian and Muslim communities.
- [Fr Rufus Halley - bridge-builder and peacemaker](https://columbans.ie/fr-rufus-halley-bridge-builder-and-peacemaker/) - Fr Rufus Halley was a man with a mission to be one in friendship with people of all faiths and be a bridge between communities in conflict and families with feuds. He was a bridge-builder and a peacemaker, writes friend and classmate, Fr Shay Cullen. It is now 20 years since the violent death of
- [Best wishes to our co-worker Claire Carey as she retires!](https://columbans.ie/best-wishes-to-co-worker-claire-carey-as-she-retires/) - On the Feast of St Clare, the community in Dalgan gathered to thank Claire Carey for her many years of service to Columban Mission and to wish her every blessing and good health in her retirement. On behalf of the Region, Fr Ray Husband, Regional Director, thanked Claire for her very dedicated engagement in mission
- [Summer School 2021 at An Tairseach](https://columbans.ie/summer-school-2021-at-an-tairseach/) - Elizabeth McArdle of the Columban Ecological Institute reports on the 2021 Summer School with Dr John Feehan, which took place between 28th June and 3rd July 2021 at An Tairseach. Every Bush Aflame: God and the Natural World It was with a sense of adventure that I headed south from Dalgan to County Wicklow with
- [Team Xavier – From Mind to Heart](https://columbans.ie/team-xavier-from-mind-to-heart/) - Fiji is grappling with the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown. Fr Pat Colgan writes about the efforts of Xavier College in Ba in delivering groceries to the neediest students' families. According to Fr Pat, “Most of the staff, and donors to this project, are not Catholic or Christian, but it shows that the
- [Meet a Columban - Fr Gary Walker SSC](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-gary-walker-ssc/) - Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Fr Gary Walker, who currently lives at the Columban house in the Australian city of Brisbane, about his experience of being assigned to the mission in Jamaica. Fr Gary previously served as Regional Director of Australia and New Zealand and as Editor of the Far East Magazine (Australia and New
- [Fr David Kenneally: Afghanistan has paid a huge price](https://columbans.ie/fr-david-kenneally-afghanistan-has-paid-a-huge-price/) - I’m struggling to understand the purpose of the last almost 20 years in Afghanistan writes Columban missionary, Fr David Kenneally. The many lives that were lost and those that were injured or maimed. Afghanistan has paid a huge price. Everyone has. In neighbouring Pakistan, I knew that the Afghan war was beginning probably before most.
- [New Training Centre at Pedalling Eco farm](https://columbans.ie/new-training-centre-at-pedalling-eco-farm/) - Columban missionary Fr Oliver McCrossan and his colleague Virgie Vidad write about the latest developments at the organic farm he set up to help struggling tricycle workers in the Philippines. In 2019, the Pedalling Eco farm became a community garden for the tricycle drivers. The aim was to create an organic diversified integrated farm managed
- [Bullying and the School Curriculum](https://columbans.ie/bullying-and-the-school-curriculum/) - Fr Cyril Lovett believes a book on bullying by Korean writer Yi Munyol, which was translated by Columban Fr Kevin O’Rourke, should be on the school curriculum. Columban Fr Kevin O’Rourke died in Korea on 23 October 2020 after a prolonged illness. He had spent more than fifty years as a Columban missionary and
- [The Perils of Climate Change](https://columbans.ie/the-perils-of-climate-change/) - Given the seriousness of the crisis, every parish needs to set up a climate change committee and work with other Christian Churches and other religions to address this critical issue of our time, writes Columban Fr Seán McDonagh. On 9th August 2021, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a scientific body convened by the
- [Peru Covid Update from Fr Ed O'Connell](https://columbans.ie/peru-covid-update-from-fr-ed-oconnell/) - Fr Ed O’Connell reports on a Columban celebration at communal kitchens serving the vulnerable in Peru. At long last we have a president, primary school teacher Pedro Castillo, with an MA in Educational Psychology. He took over on 28 July, coming to power on the 200th anniversary of Peru as a Republic. He is seen
- [Heed the call of Hiroshima and Nagasaki](https://columbans.ie/heed-the-call-of-hiroshima-and-nagasaki/) - Columban Fr Jim Mulroney writes about the scourge of nuclear weapons as Japan marks the anniversary of the horrific bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. At 8:15 am on August 6, the city of Hiroshima observed a minute’s silence for those who died and those who have born the scars of the horror of the atomic
- [Why so few convictions for human trafficking?](https://columbans.ie/why-so-few-convictions-for-human-trafficking/) - Approximately 45.8 million people are caught in the trap of modern slavery around the world, including 10 million children. Yet traffickers continue to operate with impunity, warns Fr Shay Cullen. The recruitment and sale of humans is an age-old crime against the rights, freedom and dignity of everyone exploited and forced to work for little
- [Funerals in Covid Times](https://columbans.ie/funerals-in-covid-times/) - Fr Ray Husband writes about a recent family bereavement and the devastating impact of Covid restrictions on his family's grief. Traditionally we Irish have dealt with death in a positive and hands on manner. The Irish wake is known for the celebration of the deceased person's life. In the midst of pain, grief and loss,
- [Books published by Columbans during the Pandemic](https://columbans.ie/books-published-by-columbans-during-the-pandemic/) - One of the positive fruits of the Covid pandemic for Columbans in Ireland has been the opportunity lockdown afforded them to write and reflect on faith and spirituality. Three books have been published so far this year by Columbans in the Irish region. The most recent is Voices from the Desert: The Lost Legacy of
- [A Legacy Worth Revisiting](https://columbans.ie/a-legacy-worth-revisiting/) - Fr Hugh MacMahon explains how the Elders of the Desert and the Skelligs inspired him to write his new book. What prompted me to write Voices from the Desert: The Lost Legacy of Skelligs was the need to find answers to questions that had long bothered me. They began with a visit to Skelligs some
- [Fr Hugh MacMahon's new book to be published in August](https://columbans.ie/fr-hugh-macmahons-new-book-to-be-published-in-august/) - Fr Hugh MacMahon’s new book, ‘Voices from the Desert: The Lost Legacy of the Skelligs' will be published by Columba Books in August. According to the publishers, what the Desert Fathers had to say about Christianity and their own spiritual practices is as relevant now as it has been through the ages. Despite the many
- [Columbans support NJPN conference 2021](https://columbans.ie/columbans-support-njpn-conference-2021/) - Columbans in Britain were able to attend this year's National Justice and Peace Network of England and Wales (NJPN) conference but unfortunately there was no delegation from the Columbans in Ireland due to the ongoing pandemic. The chant, “We come together for our common home”, ran through the liturgies at this year’s annual conference which
- [Letter from Wuhan: Learning from Teilhard de Chardin](https://columbans.ie/letter-from-wuhan-learning-from-teilhard-de-chardin/) - A weekend notification from the office responsible for the control of the coronavirus pandemic in Wuhan has indicated that new measures are being introduced to counteract the threat of the Delta variant. People from outside the province are being told to avoid travel to this region. However, there is no indication that life is returning
- [Fr Francis Carr](https://columbans.ie/fr-francis-carr/) - Fr Frank Carr was born in Athenry, Co Galway on 30th April 1935. He was educated in Newcastle NS and St Mary’s College, Galway before joining the Columbans in Navan in 1953. He was part of our student exchange programme and studied theology for three years in Milton MA returning to Ireland to be ordained
- [How can we celebrate life when our planet is dying?](https://columbans.ie/how-can-we-celebrate-life-when-our-planet-is-dying/) - This is a short excerpt from Afri's upcoming Food Sovereignty documentary which includes footage from six different countries around the world. Bobby Pagusara, who works for Agro-Eco, talks about the organic growing movement in the Philippines and highlights the challenges and successes of local farmers. He also speaks about the role of the Columbans in
- [Laudato Si Week: 16-25 May 2021](https://columbans.ie/laudato-si-week-16-25-may-2021/) - Pope Francis invites us to celebrate Laudato Si Week, writes Sr Caroline Vaitkunas, a Columban Peace, Ecology and Justice team member. In 2015, Pope Francis released his encyclical letter Laudato Si': On Care for Our Common Home, which offers a profound vision for responding to the cries of the poor and Earth. This vision continues
- [Far East marks 20th anniversary of killing of Fr Rufus Halley](https://columbans.ie/far-east-marks-20th-anniversary-of-the-killing-of-fr-rufus-halley/) - The current issue of the Far East magazine is devoted to Columban missionary Fr Rufus Halley who was killed twenty years ago in August 2001. The Editorial was written by Fr Brendan Lovett. In the past editors have often attempted to find a unifying theme for a given issue of our Far East. This may
- [Two Cubans](https://columbans.ie/two-cubans/) - Cuba is in the midst of an economic crisis. Sanctions and the Covid-19 pandemic have led to deteriorating living conditions, electricity outages and acute shortages of food and medicine. Fr Bobby Gilmore recalls the day when Cubans Juan and Ada turned up on his door in Jamaica. Neville Budhai is a Cuban refugee living in
- [Murder of a Landless Farm Worker](https://columbans.ie/murder-of-a-landless-farm-worker/) - Columban missionary Fr Daniel O’Connor writes about the killing of a landless farm worker in a dispute over water and wood and the fear landlords wield over whole villages in Pakistan. On a very hot day in May, Shomo working alone, was trimming back thorn bushes from the side of the village track that
- [Memorial Mass for three Columbans buried in Lahore](https://columbans.ie/memorial-mass-for-three-columbans-buried-in-lahore/) - Last month four Columbans from the Pakistan Mission Unit travelled to Lahore for a Memorial Mass for the three Columbans buried there, writes Fr Tomás King. The three are: lay missionary Pilar Tilos, Fr Pat McCaffrey and Fr Tommy ‘Tanvir’ O’Hanlon. We were unable to do so last year due the Covid-19 pandemic. The Mass
- [A Picture Speaks a Thousand Words](https://columbans.ie/a-picture-speaks-a-thousand-words/) - Columban lay missionary Hazel Angwani is from Bontoc, Mountain Province in the Philippines. She is currently on mission in Pakistan. She writes about a recent photograph she took of a Tribal woman. There is a saying, ‘A picture speaks a thousand words.’ When I took this photo of a woman in one of the
- [Reflection: July/August 2021 Far East magazine](https://columbans.ie/reflection-july-august-2021-far-east-magazine/) - All down through the centuries we have heard and read about the lives of martyrs. The Martyrology of the Saints and of very many holy people since the beginning of Christianity right up to our own day has often been gruesome reading. Martyrdom, be it a slow process of pain and suffering or a quick
- [China Church Solidarity Website](https://columbans.ie/china-church-solidarity-website/) - China Church Solidarity (CCS) operates under the direction of Columban missionary Fr Eamonn O'Brien and aims to build bridges between the Catholic Churches of Europe and China. Fr Eamonn first visited in China in 1979 and has been systemically working with the Church in China since 2000. CCS was set up in 2019 and continues
- [Fr Malachy promotes 'Discoveries in Prayer'](https://columbans.ie/fr-malachy-promotes-discoveries-in-prayer/) - Fr Malachy Hanratty has divided his book, 'Discoveries in Prayer', into two booklets and put them on the Columban website for free - no strings attached! Here is the link to the webpage where the booklets can be downloaded: https://columbans.ie/discoveries-in-prayer-now-available-for-free-via-this-website/ He is circulating the link with the aim of bringing the booklets to the
- [Haiti – Is There Life Before Death?](https://columbans.ie/haiti-is-there-life-before-death/) - In light of President Jovenel Moise's assassination, Fr Bobby Gilmore reflects on Haiti’s vulnerability, endless underdevelopment and destitution. ‘Haitianisation’ has a long shadow, he suggests. A runaway slave was, in fact a thief since he stolen his master’s property-himself. (Edward P. Jones - The Known World) Near the town of Montpelier on the plateau
- [Building resumes on Myitkyina addiction recovery centre](https://columbans.ie/building-resumes-on-womens-addiction-recovery-centre-in-myitkyina/) - Building has resumed on the women’s addiction recovery centre in Myitkyina in Myanmar. In a tweet, Columban missionary Fr Eamon Sheridan announced the good news. When completed, it will be the first residential centre for women grappling with addiction in Kachin state. “After a 4 month pause for obvious reasons (if you follow the news)
- [Fr Eamon secures funding for women's addiction centre](https://columbans.ie/fr-eamon-secures-funding-for-womens-addiction-centre-in-myanmar/) - Columban missionary Fr Eamon Sheridan writes from Myanmar with the good news that he has secured funding from Misean Cara and Missio Germany to start building a women’s centre in Myitkyina to help women suffering from addiction. “We will start building 1 November 2020. The building is only the first step, then we have to
- [Fr Jason Antiquera: Artist and Columban](https://columbans.ie/fr-jason-antiquera-artist-and-columban/) - Fr Jason Antiquera is a Columban missionary from the Philippines, who is working in Korea. Over the course of the first six months of the Covid-19 pandemic, Fr Jason began working on an icon of Saints Peter and Paul for the Columban seminary in Seoul. The request to paint the icon, he explains, came at
- [Fr Paul Kenny](https://columbans.ie/fr-paul-kenny/) - Fr Paul Kenny was born in Coolmeen, Co Clare on 29th June 1930. He was educated at Coolmeen NS and St Flannan’s College, Ennis before coming to Dalgan in 1948 where he was ordained priest on 21st December 1954. He finished an MA in Anthropology in Fordham, NY before taking up an appointment to a
- [Wuhan: Simple blessings of Catholic community life](https://columbans.ie/letter-from-wuhan-simple-blessings-of-catholic-community-life/) - On Tuesday of last week, I was invited to join a group of people going to the town of Xiaogan, on the northern outskirts of Wuhan, to visit Fr Joachim Shu. Over the past two years, Fr Shu's health has deteriorated seriously due to a number of blockages in his brain. He is just 53
- [Living Without Destructive Plastic](https://columbans.ie/living-without-destructive-plastic/) - Our modern world depends on plastic to sustain its present lifestyle. But that lifestyle, built on the plastic revolution, has a dangerous dark side warns Fr Shay Cullen. Plastic was and is a magical invention. It is a material based on oil and has thousands of excellent and life-saving uses. In the medical world, in
- [Icon of SS Peter and Paul in Columban seminary in Korea](https://columbans.ie/icon-of-ss-peter-and-paul-in-the-columban-seminary-in-korea/) - Fr Donal O’Keeffe, Rector of the Columban seminary in Seoul, reflects on the Feast of SS Peter and Paul and its significance for the Missionary Society of St Columban. He recalls how the Society was officially recognised by Rome on 29th June 1918 – the Feast of Peter and Paul and how over the years
- [Columban co-worker presented with Pax Christi Peace Award](https://columbans.ie/columban-co-worker-presented-with-pax-christi-peace-award/) - Columban JPIC expert Ellen Teague has been presented with this year’s Pax Christi Peace Award in recognition of her many commitments to justice and peace. Pax Christi has presented this award to those who have shown a commitment for peace and justice bi-annually since 2001. Ellen has worked for the Columbans since 1990, and has
- [40 Shades of Green](https://columbans.ie/40-shades-of-green/) - When I got home in 1994, World Cup fever was in the air, recalls Fr Bernard Steed. Jack and his men were heading for the US boosted by a great wave of enthusiasm and hopes of glory from the entire population. It was then that a young relation, having a summer job with a drinks
- [Meet a Columban: Fr Frank Hoare](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-frank-hoare/) - In this episode of ‘Meet a Columban’, Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Fr Frank Hoare from Ireland. He is a member of the Columban Regional Council in Fiji and is one of the team working in formation of Columban seminarians. He has been missioned in Fiji since 1973.
- [Two Columbans to be ordained to the diaconate](https://columbans.ie/two-columbans-to-be-ordained-to-the-diaconate/) - Two Columbans will be ordained to the diaconate on Sunday 27 June 2021 by Bishop Honesto Ongtioco of Cubao. The ordination of deacons Jerry Lohera and Elbert Balbastro will take place at the chapel of the Columban House of Studies in Quezon City in the Philippines. Jerry is from Magsaysay, Misamis Oriental and Elbert is
- [3rd Sunday of Advent: Walk in the light](https://columbans.ie/3rd-sunday-of-advent-walk-in-the-light/) - On Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, Fr Tom O’Reilly lit the third candle on the Advent wreath and led the prayers of the community in Dalgan Park. We pray that our lives may continue to be anchored in the joy of the Gospel. That we may rejoice each day in the small blessings
- [Hong Kong through the lens of Fr Alvaro Martinez](https://columbans.ie/hong-kong-through-the-lens-of-fr-alvaro-martinez/) - A selection of photos taken by Columban missionary Fr Alvaro Martinez of Hong Kong, where he works for the Society's General Council. Hong Kong has a unique place in the history of Columban Missionaries. In 1920, Fr John Blowick, the Society’s first Superior General, visited the city. That visit raised the possibility of ministry to
- [How to End Child Labour](https://columbans.ie/how-to-end-child-labour/) - It was a massive international solidarity march in 1999 along the streets of Geneva, recalls Columban Fr Shay Cullen. Thousands of children and supporters from all over Europe and Asia were there to encourage and support the approval and signing by the world’s nations of the document, ‘Worse Forms of Child Labour Convention 1999.’ I
- [Our newest Columban priest](https://columbans.ie/our-newest-columban-priest/) - Amid all the challenges and sadness of the Covid pandemic - loss of employment, restriction of movement, lockdowns and many deaths, there have been moments of uplift. For the Missionary Society of St Columban, one of these was the ordination of our newest Columban priest. Despite Covid and Tropical Cyclone Yasa, which wrecked havoc with
- [21st Century Mission](https://columbans.ie/21st-century-mission/) - Immigrants are the energy band in today’s world. They energise economies at home by their remittances and away by their energy and ingenuity, writes Fr Bobby Gilmore. “A Christian world and a world yet to be evangelised. That situation no longer exists. The people who have not yet heard the gospel no longer live in
- [Mass and the blessing of the graves on Cemetery Sunday 2021](https://columbans.ie/mass-and-the-blessing-of-the-graves-on-cemetery-sunday-2021/) - The Missionary Society of St Columban’s annual Cemetery Sunday Mass and Blessing of the Graves was restricted to members of the community at Dalgan again this year due to Covid restrictions. Columbans Buried in the Cemetery at Dalgan: 383 Columbans Buried Elsewhere: 236
- ["You know, they’re not as young as they used to be"](https://columbans.ie/you-know-theyre-not-as-young-as-they-used-to-be/) - Fr Bobby Gilmore recalls a visit to see his parents in the 1980s when he met a neighbour and the conversation forced him to think about the conundrum of where is home? You know… There is an instant when one is about to leave home in which an image of where one is leaving is
- [Cemetery Sunday: Join us online on 13th June](https://columbans.ie/cemetery-sunday-join-us-online-on-13th-june/) - The Missionary Society of St Columban's annual Cemetery Sunday celebration will be restricted to members of the community at Dalgan again this year due to Covid restrictions but the Mass will be available online. In a message to the community and the wider Columban family, Regional Director, Fr Ray Husband said, “Although we all hope
- [Fr Donal O'Keeffe: Faith empowering workers](https://columbans.ie/fr-donal-okeeffe-faith-empowering-workers/) - Noel Mackey recalls some of the work done by Fr Donal O’Keeffe in Korea with marginalised workers and vulnerable tenants which led to his Immigrant of the Year Award. For the past 14 years Korea has been honouring individual immigrants who have made significant contributions to the country declaring them ‘Immigrants of the Year’. Columban
- [Wuhan: Catching up with people after lockdown ends](https://columbans.ie/wuhan-catching-up-with-people-after-lockdown-ends/) - A phone call this morning from Han Weiwei led to further discussions about our planned meeting later in the week at his side of Wuhan. One year ago, his daily phone calls became a familiar part of the 11 weeks of lockdown. The return to normal life in the city has seen a continuation of
- [Update from Fr Ed on Peru's desperate Covid situation](https://columbans.ie/update-from-fr-ed-on-perus-desperate-covid-situation/) - The total number of cases of Covid-19 on 31st May was 1,961,087 (49.9% in Lima Department and Province of Callao); authorities recently updated the figures by 184,507 deaths, writes Fr Ed O'Connell. The number of cases in Lima are now equal to outside Lima and deaths outside Lima are a little more than half. This
- [Farewell to Ger Clarke as he retires after 26 years](https://columbans.ie/farewell-to-ger-clarke-as-he-retires-after-26-years/) - Ger Clarke, one of the best-known faces around Dalgan, has just retired after 26 years working in Dalgan sharing the Columban vision with thousands of school students through Columban Mission Outreach. Tribute from Fr Pat Raleigh: It is never easy saying goodbyes but at least we know that we can call on Ger for his
- [Lay Missionary Chang Eun-Yeal Columba retires after 30 years](https://columbans.ie/lay-missionary-chang-eun-yeal-columba-retires-after-30-years/) - In 1990, Chang Eun-Yeal Columba was a member of the first lay mission team of the Missionary Society of St Columban’s Korean region appointed to the Philippines. She worked there for 18 years. She also served as a member of the lay missionary’s central leadership team for three years in Hong Kong and served in
- [Meet a Columban: Fr Paul McCartin](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-paul-mccartin/) - In this episode of ‘Meet a Columban’, Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Fr Paul McCartin about his missionary life in Japan since 1979. They also discuss the human and ecological impacts of nuclear and other disasters in Japan, as well as Japan's relationship with America. Fr Paul explains how some nuclear power plants in Japan
- [Fr Robert McCulloch participates in religious freedom consultation](https://columbans.ie/fr-robert-mcculloch-participates-in-consultation-on-religious-freedom/) - Columban missionary Fr Robert McCulloch joined a high-profile delegation at the residence of the British ambassador to the Holy See to discuss religious freedom in Pakistan and the Middle East on 25 May 2021. Fr McCulloch is Procurator General of the Missionary Society of St Columban and served in Pakistan for 34 years. Based in
- [Korean State honours Irish Columban Fr Donal O'Keeffe](https://columbans.ie/korean-state-honours-irish-columban-fr-donal-okeeffe/) - Columban missionary, Fr Donal O’Keeffe, has been honoured as ‘Immigrant of the Year’ by the Korean State in recognition of his 40 years of dedication to supporting the marginalised in Korean society. The 70-year-old Columban, who is formation programme director in the Korean region, was awarded a presidential citation at a ceremony hosted by the
- [Columban Winners Feature in National Newspaper](https://columbans.ie/columbans-schools-winners-feature-in-national-newspaper/) - The winners of this year’s Columban Schools Media competition have been featured in a two-page spread in the Irish News. The article by Assistant Editor, William Scholes, is titled, ‘Students focus on a world without racism in Columban competition’ and explains that this year’s competition addressed the theme of racism. Ella Fleming, a student at
- [Final professions in Hanyang](https://columbans.ie/final-professions-in-hanyang/) - On 25 March 2021, two members of the Sisters of Our Lady of Hanyang made their final professions at St Columban’s Church in Hanyang, China. It was a joyful day for Sr Fiona Yang Fuli and Sr Columban Zhu Wenjuan. The choir sang with full voice during the Mass on this joyful occasion. At the
- [Cowparsley and Pignut with Dr John Feehan](https://columbans.ie/cowparsley-and-pignut-with-dr-john-feehan/) - Dr John Feehan, a great friend of Dalgan and the Columbans in Ireland, continues his video series on wildflowers. In this one, he talks about Cowparsley and Pignut. Cowparsley is one of the signature species of the hedgerow in early summer, and according to John Feehan "one of the loveliest sights of early summer" while
- [World Biodiversity Day on 22nd May 2021: Columban podcast](https://columbans.ie/world-biodiversity-day-on-22nd-may-2021-columban-podcast/) - Fr Tim Mulroy, Superior General of the Columban Missionaries, explains how to celebrate World Biodiversity Day on 22nd May 2021. The Society has released the Columban Biodiversity Podcast: 'Jubilee for the Earth'. The podcast is one of the Columbans’ contributions to Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ Decade which launches on 24 May. We are committed to
- [Meet a Columban: Fr Dominic Nolan](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-dominic-nolan/) - In this episode of ‘Meet a Columban’, Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Fr Dominic Nolan SSC, who has spent most of his missionary life in the Philippines working in parish ministry, ecology work and on bible study programmes. In the 1980s, he became involved in CELL, a project which the Columbans were promoting. The Centre
- [The Good and Bad and the Ugly of the Internet](https://columbans.ie/the-good-and-bad-and-the-ugly-of-the-internet/) - The challenge for Internet Service Providers is to find a moral conscience, to obey existing laws and take voluntary action to protect children online, writes Fr Shay Cullen. There are essentials of life that we all need nowadays: fresh air, food, water, clothes, shelter, health, electricity, and the Internet. The Internet is now an essential
- [How Life Has Changed](https://columbans.ie/how-life-has-changed/) - I had just arrived in the Philippines shortly after ordination. It was 1973 and something unprecedented was happening back home in Ireland. Limerick had made it to the All-Ireland hurling final! Desperate to find out news of how the match went I got my shortwave transistor radio all set up in the presbytery. For younger
- [Acting on Laudato Si’: What is the Laudato Si’ Action Platform?](https://columbans.ie/acting-on-laudato-si-what-is-the-laudato-si-action-platform/) - On 24 May, the Vatican will invite the entire Catholic Church to embark on an audacious faith-filled, decade-long journey through the Laudato Si Action Platform. The Vatican hopes that as many of us as possible will join this journey together and that with every passing year the number of us on this journey will increase
- [Update on Fr Oliver McCrossan's organic project](https://columbans.ie/update-on-fr-oliver-mccrossans-organic-project/) - Fr Oliver McCrossan, who founded the charity Pedalling to Live, and Virgie O. Vidad who co-ordinates the programme in the Philippines, write about the impact of Covid-19 on the lives of some those they help. I met Felmar Tano and her mother Elma Tano way back in 2011. He is a child with cerebral palsy,
- [What to do with the Eucharist in a Time of Lockdown](https://columbans.ie/what-to-do-with-the-eucharist-in-a-time-of-lockdown/) - This time last year, Columban missionary Fr Pat Colgan wrote an article entitled, 'How to be People of the Eucharist, when there is no Eucharist?' It was during Fiji’s first lockdown when Mass was not celebrated with a public congregation for three months and a number of Catholics were asking: ’What does it mean to
- [Quarantine Adventures](https://columbans.ie/quarantine-adventures/) - Columban Fr John Boles reflects on the travels of a missionary in times of Covid. Overseas missionary work brings many surprises, but a 12-day obligatory quarantine period in a secure facility near London Airport was a ‘first’ for me. Travelling back to Britain during the Covid crisis after many years in Peru was a truly
- [E-launch of new book 'Time to Call Home'](https://columbans.ie/e-launch-of-new-book-time-to-call-home/) - Elizabeth McArdle, Research Officer at the Columban Ecological Institute in Dalgan, will launch Fr Hugh O'Donnell's new book, ‘Time to Call Home’, on Wednesday 12th May 2021 at 6.30pm. The event will take place online. The book is published by Veritas and Fr Hugh, according to Elizabeth, “is a good friend of the Columban Ecological
- [Racism - accident prone?](https://columbans.ie/racism-accident-prone/) - Continuous denial of racism in the face of history and its daily effects in black and minority lives is dehumanising not just to those robbed of selfhood but also in those who are unable to make an honest admission that racism blights all lives, writes Fr Bobby Gilmore. Racism is any act or institution that
- [Meet a Columban - Fr John Hegerty SSC](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-john-hegerty-ssc/) - In this episode of ‘Meet a Columban’, Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Fr John Hegerty SSC who has been in Peru since 1971. Born in 1941 in Redesdale, central Victoria in Australia, he grew up on his parents’ 1,700 acre sheep and cattle and rotational cropping holding, called Summer Hill. He joined the Columbans at
- [Reflection in May/June 2021 Far East magazine](https://columbans.ie/reflection-in-may-june-2021-far-east-magazine/) - Jeremiah is one of the prophets of the Old Testament. He never wanted to be a prophet and he protested against the call of Yahweh/God. He lived at the time of the last days of Jerusalem’s monarchy and he reluctantly proclaimed a message of destruction. But in spite of his messages of disaster he also
- [Tribute to AITECE teacher Fr Leslie McNamara](https://columbans.ie/tribute-to-aitece-teacher-fr-leslie-mcnamara/) - Columban Fr Joseph Houston pays tribute to Fr Leslie McNamara, former president of St Munchin’s College in Limerick, who as an AITECE teacher, taught English in China for a number of years. When she heard the news of Leslie McNamara’s death, a former student of Nanchang University, China, wrote: “The most important day of my
- [Stations of the Cross in Seoul](https://columbans.ie/stations-of-the-cross-in-seoul/) - On Good Friday, the Columban formation community in Seoul participated in a liturgy organised by the Korean Branch of the Global Catholic Climate Movement (GCCM), writes Fr Donal O'Keeffe. Formally inaugurated in January 2020, GCCM Korea is now a national movement coordinated by a team of lay persons, religious and priests. The liturgy was organized
- ["A key book for missionary groups and the Synod" - Archbishop](https://columbans.ie/a-key-book-for-missionary-groups-and-the-synod-archbishop/) - Columban Fr Tom O’Reilly’s new book on the Acts of the Apostles has been hailed by both the Papal Nuncio to Ireland, Archbishop Jude Okolo, and by Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly, who described it as “a very key book for missionary groups”. On Wednesday 21 April, over 80 people participated in the online launch of the
- [Restore Our Earth So We Can Live](https://columbans.ie/restore-our-earth-so-we-can-live/) - There is great hope and enthusiasm among the youth celebrating Earth Day on 22nd April for the restoration of the earth, writes Fr Shay Cullen They see the environmental destruction in all aspects of our lives - the air we breathe, the destruction of forests, the polluted oceans, the climate change that is upon us
- [Columbans help families struggling amid pandemic in Peru](https://columbans.ie/columbans-help-families-struggling-amid-pandemic-in-peru/) - An update from Fr Ed O’Connell about the Columban outreach to families trying to survive the Covid-19 crisis in Peru. The total number of cases of coronavirus on the 18 April was 1,704,757 (51.6% in Lima Department and Province of Callao) and 57,230 deaths (49.3% in Lima Department and Province of Callao). The number
- [Fr Michael Cuddigan reflects on 50 years of priesthood](https://columbans.ie/fr-michael-cuddigan-reflects-on-50-years-of-priesthood/) - Columban missionary Fr Michael Cuddigan belongs to the Chinese Mission Unit in Hong Kong. He was ordained on Easter Sunday 11th April 1971 in the college chapel in Dalgan. Here are some of his thoughts on 50 years of missionary priesthood. This is indeed a very happy day for me as I celebrate my golden
- [Spring Reflection](https://columbans.ie/spring-reflection/) - Spring is the season of new beginnings. The earth comes to life again after its Winter sleep. Everything in Nature is changing and promising new life. The long dark months of Winter have faded. The days get longer and the nights shorter. The natural world comes to life and the air is full of expectation.
- [We Need to Learn What Racism is Before Creating a World Without It](https://columbans.ie/we-need-to-learn-what-racism-is-before-creating-a-world-without-it/) - This article by Victory Isijola of St Louis Secondary School, Dundalk, Co Louth, came third in the 2021 Columban Schools Media competition. It is illustrated by the image which was awarded third place in the competition and was created by Caragh Cochrane, St Louis Grammar School, Ballymena. On the 25th of May 2020, George Floyd,
- [International Earth Day on 22nd April](https://columbans.ie/international-earth-day-on-22nd-april/) - International Earth Day is a global event celebrated annually on 22nd April. The first-ever Earth Day took place in the USA in 1970 to raise awareness about environmental issues. Today over one billion people in 190 countries mark and participate in the event. The theme this year is ‘Restore our Earth.’ There are many ways
- [This Candle](https://columbans.ie/this-candle/) - The Paschal Candle symbolises the risen Christ. Fr Tim Mulroy recalls a particular candle with its own unique story about prison and freedom, as well as hope and promise. This is the night, when Christ broke the prison-bars of death and rose victorious from the underworld. During the celebration of the Easter Vigil last year,
- ['Discoveries in Prayer' now available for free via this website](https://columbans.ie/discoveries-in-prayer-now-available-for-free-via-this-website/) - Fr Malachy Hanratty, who spent most of his missionary life in Japan, has reprinted his popular book, ‘Discoveries in Prayer’. The new edition is published in booklet format and Volumes I and II are available to download for free from the Columban website. According to Fr Malachy, booklets are easier to carry around and helpful
- [The Second Pandemic](https://columbans.ie/the-second-pandemic/) - This article – The Second Pandemic – by Conn Fyfe of St Louis Grammar School Ballymena, came second in the 2021 Columban Schools Media competition. It is illustrated by the image which was awarded second place in the competition and was created by Caoimhe Collins of Ballincollig, Co Cork. 2020 The year of lockdowns and
- [Columban pens new book on the Acts of the Apostles](https://columbans.ie/new-book-by-fr-tom-oreilly-on-the-acts-of-the-apostles/) - Columban missionary Fr Tom O’Reilly has published a new book with Veritas Books on the Acts of the Apostles. ‘Acts of the Apostles - A Reading for Mission Today’ approaches the Acts of the Apostles not just as a history book that gives us information about the life and mission of the early Church, but
- [Happy Easter - Voices of Resurrection from Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/happy-easter-voices-of-resurrection-from-dalgan/) - From a banner of the resurrection made by the Parkari Koli people in Pakistan to the traditional blessing of eggs in Poland to a cross from San Salvador – 21 Columban missionaries, as well as two carers and a nurse in Dalgan, share their thoughts on Easter and what it means to them. Be inspired!
- [Holy Week Reflections: Saturday - Let God Easter in Us](https://columbans.ie/holy-week-reflections-saturday-let-god-easter-in-us/) - We two alone will sing like birds i’ the cage: When thou dost ask me blessing, I’ll kneel down, And ask of thee forgiveness: so we’ll live, And pray, and sing, and tell old tales, and laugh At gilded butterflies, and hear poor rogues Talk of court news; and we'll talk with them too, Who
- [Holy Week Reflections: Friday - Kissing Evil On the Lips](https://columbans.ie/holy-week-reflections-friday-kissing-evil-on-the-lips/) - We, for our part, have crossed over from death to life; this we know because we love our brothers and sisters. 1 Jn. 3:13 The Christian focus on the Cross has nothing to do with tragic consciousness. It is not a sick preoccupation with negativity in the place of an allegedly healthy involvement with life.
- [Look for any twelve individuals!](https://columbans.ie/look-for-any-twelve-individuals/) - Holy Thursday for me has always meant the washing of the feet. I missed it last year when in accordance with the Covid directives it was set aside. Its absence provoked a moment of reflection on the Gospel message and an opportunity to remember previous Holy Thursdays. I was taken back to my First Mission Assignment
- ["What is the next mountain you would like to climb?”](https://columbans.ie/what-is-the-next-mountain-you-would-like-to-climb/) - Columban missionary, Fr Noel O’Neill, who founded the Rainbow Community in Korea to assist people with intellectual disabilities, writes about the mountains conquered by Kim Youn Cheong. I took the call. An over-excited voice told me: “Sinbunim (Father), I have passed the college entrance exam.” It was 22-year-old Kim Youn Cheong on the phone. I
- [Holy Week Reflections - Thursday: Dying We Live](https://columbans.ie/holy-week-reflections-thursday-dying-we-live/) - In truth, in very truth I tell you, a grain of wheat remains a solitary grain unless it falls into the ground and dies; but if it dies, it bears a rich harvest. The man who loves himself is lost, but he who hates himself in this world will be kept safe for eternal life...
- [Good News from Wuhan!](https://columbans.ie/good-news-from-wuhan-2/) - Fr John Boles speaks to a young Columban who shares words of hope from an unexpected place. Wuhan! A name now notorious as the probable source of the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic. But, for Catholics and especially Columbans, Wuhan means GOOD NEWS. It is where the Columban missionary endeavour began, over one hundred years ago as
- [Holy Week Reflections – Wednesday: Sign of our Hope](https://columbans.ie/holy-week-reflections-wednesday-sign-of-our-hope/) - It may sound paradoxical, but the fact that the cross of Jesus uncovers for us the mystery of iniquity is itself the demonstration that the basis of our hope is present in the cross. There was infinitely more happening on the rise of ground outside Jerusalem than the revelation of evil. The revelation of evil
- [Holy Week Reflections - Tuesday: The Mystery of Evil](https://columbans.ie/holy-week-reflections-tuesday-the-mystery-of-evil/) - The men who were guarding Jesus mocked at him. They beat him, they blindfolded him, and they kept asking him, ‘Now, prophet, who hit you? Tell us that.' And so they went on heaping insults upon him... There were two others with him, criminals who were being led away to execution; and when they reached
- [Holy Week Reflections - Monday: A Crucified God](https://columbans.ie/holy-week-reflections-monday-a-crucified-god/) - MONDAY: A Crucified God by Fr Brendan Lovett from his book, ‘It’s Not Over Yet – Christological Reflections on Holy Week’, published by Claretian Publications. This doctrine of the cross is sheer folly to those on their way to ruin, but to us who are on the way to salvation it is the power of
- [Christological Reflections on Holy Week by Fr Brendan Lovett](https://columbans.ie/christological-reflections-on-holy-week-by-fr-brendan-lovett/) - To help us enter into the meaning of Holy Week, we will be reproducing every day next week a reflection by Columban missionary, Fr Brendan Lovett, from his book, ‘It’s Not Over Yet - Christological Reflections on Holy Week’, published by Claretian Publications. Here, we publish the Introduction and some comments from Fr Lovett. “I
- [Fr Sean Dwan marks 700th anniversary of the death of Dante](https://columbans.ie/fr-sean-dwan-marks-700th-anniversary-of-the-death-of-dante/) - Virtual commemorations were held across Italy to mark the 700th anniversary of the death of the great Italian poet, Dante Alighieri, on Thursday 25th March. Born in Florence in 1265, Dante died on 14 September 1321 in Ravenna. His masterwork, The Divine Comedy, is divided into three parts — Inferno (Hell), Purgatorio (Purgatory), and Paradiso
- [Winners of Columban Schools Media Competition announced](https://columbans.ie/winners-of-columban-schools-media-competition-announced/) - The Missionary Society of St Columban today announced the winners in their Schools Media Competition on the subject ‘Let’s create a world without racism’. The two strands of the competition – articles and images - attracted almost 300 entries from nearly 100 schools. They were judged by panels of media experts separately in Britain and
- [Palm Sunday](https://columbans.ie/palm-sunday-the-drama-of-what-it-means-to-be-a-christian-begins-to-unfold/) - In his reflection on Palm Sunday, otherwise known as Passion Sunday, which commemorates Jesus's triumphal entry into Jerusalem, Fr Jim Fleming explains how the drama of what it means to be a Christian begins to unfold. With Palm Sunday the real drama of what it means to be a Christian begins to unfold. For us,
- [Winning article and image in Columban Schools Media Competition](https://columbans.ie/winning-article-and-image-in-columban-schools-media-competition/) - This is the wining article - The Real World - by Ella Fleming of St Dominic’s Grammar School, Belfast, which is illustrated by the winning image by Emily Grimes of St Oliver's Community College, Drogheda in our 2021 Columban Schools Media competition. The theme was 'Let's Create a World Without Racism'. I wake. I get
- [A Syrian-born Columban missionary in China](https://columbans.ie/a-syrian-born-columban-missionary-in-china/) - Fr Dan Troy recalls a fascinating article in the Far East magazine in 1934 by Syrian-born Fr Peter Gabriel, a Columban missionary who lived in China in the 1930s. As the spring rain poured down on Wuhan during the first week of February I was quite happy to delay my departure at the end of
- [Jerusalema in Dalgan!](https://columbans.ie/jerusalema-in-dalgan/) - The staff from the Nursing Home in Dalgan join Fr Ray Husband in dancing the Jerusalema on St Patrick's Day. Enjoy!
- [Dalgan's Sacred Earth Day of Action for Climate Justice](https://columbans.ie/dalgans-sacred-earth-day-of-action-for-climate-justice/) - Fr Liam O’Callaghan led a Sacred Earth Day of Action for Climate Justice in Dalgan on Thursday 11th March. It was part of the GreenFaith Sacred People, Sacred Earth Day of Action for Climate Justice. (You can get more information on this at https://greenfaith.org/take-action/sacred-people-sacred-earth/ and here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJvECom5wBA ) The day began with morning Mass in
- [Letter from Wuhan: Waiting for church doors to reopen](https://columbans.ie/letter-from-wuhan-waiting-for-church-doors-to-reopen/) - As I walked up the steps to St Columban's Church yesterday afternoon in the Hanyang area of Wuhan, I noticed that a white sheet of paper still formed a seal on the main door as it has done since early January. The printed details on this sheet of paper indicate that the church is closed
- [Meet a Columban - Fr Liam O'Callaghan SSC](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-liam-ocallaghan-ssc/) - In this episode of 'Meet a Columban', Fr Jim Mulroney talks to Fr Liam O'Callaghan from Co Waterford, who has spent most of his missionary life in Pakistan.
- [Presentation of lifetime award to Fr Kevin O`Rourke](https://columbans.ie/presentation-of-lifetime-award-to-fr-kevin-orourke/) - The award was presented by the President of the Literature Translation Institute of Korea to Fr Liam O'Keeffe on 10 December 2020 to mark Fr Kevin O'Rourke's contribution to Korean literature. The award is made up of a citation and an inscribed memorial plaque. Fr Kevin O'Rourke sadly passed away in Seoul in October 2020.
- [Columban International Youth Encounter](https://columbans.ie/columban-international-youth-encounter/) - Young people may appear to be less at risk from severe Covid-19 symptoms, but the pandemic has significantly disrupted their lives in other ways. Social distancing and the interruption of typical school and college routines can be especially challenging for young people. Columban Missionaries are reaching out to young people around the globe in this
- [Korean Prayer for Reunification](https://columbans.ie/korean-prayer-for-reunification/) - “You have the wrong number. This is the North Korean embassy.” It was sometime in 1999 when I did my First Missionary Assignment (FMA) in Peru, recalls Fr Thomas Seungwon Nam, a South Korean Columban missionary. I had to renew my passport. For the first time in my life I spoke to a North Korean
- [Columbans stand in solidarity with the people of Myanmar](https://columbans.ie/columbans-stand-in-solidarity-with-the-people-of-myanmar/) - The world is still in shock at what happened in Myanmar on 1 February 2021 when the military declared a state of emergency and took over the newly-elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi just as the members of parliament were about to hold their first meeting, writes Columban missionary Fr Kevin O'Neill. Parliamentarians were
- [IFI to screen Columban footage to mark St Patrick's Day](https://columbans.ie/ifi-to-screen-columban-footage-to-mark-st-patricks-day/) - The Irish Film Institute (IFI) has selected a piece of Columban footage from the 1950s titled ‘Songs of the Emerald Isle’ to air on its Media Player to mark St Patrick’s Day. According to Columban Communications Officer, Fr Malachy Smyth, the Irish Film Institute has a number of films and other Columban footage preserved in
- [St Joseph - Worker and Family Man: A Lenten Resource](https://columbans.ie/st-joseph-worker-and-family-man-a-lenten-resource/) - Pope Francis designated the year from 8 December 2020 to 8 December 2021 as a year honouring St Joseph, earthly father of Jesus and husband of Mary. This Year of St Joseph is the 150th anniversary of St Joseph being named as patron of the Universal Church. St Missionary Society of St Columban has a
- [Lent, Covid and Lockdown](https://columbans.ie/lent-covid-and-lockdown/) - As we enter the second season of Lent in our never-ending lockdown, Fr Jim Fleming invites us to stop and to reflect on what it is all about and what effect it's having on us personally and collectively. The international rollout of the Covid vaccination is currently in full swing, especially in wealthier countries. Others
- [Preda Foundation appoints new president](https://columbans.ie/new-president-of-preda-foundation/) - The Preda Board of Trustees elected Francis B. Bermido Jr as president of the Preda Foundation on 21 December 2020. He was nominated by Fr Shay Cullen, founder of the Preda Foundation, and unanimously elected by members of the Board who were present during the annual meeting. His tenure as president is for six years.
- [Chinese New Year celebrations](https://columbans.ie/chinese-new-year-celebrations/) - Today, Friday 12th February, marks the beginning of the Chinese New Year. Fr Dan Troy in Wuhan writes about New Year's Eve gatherings in China on Thursday evening where many recalled those lost in the Covid-19 pandemic and welcomed the Year of the Ox in the hope of a better future. Hundreds of millions of
- [A Dead Man Can’t Witness a Marriage](https://columbans.ie/a-dead-man-cant-witness-a-marriage/) - Fr Frank Hoare writes about an Indo-Fijian marriage ceremony he celebrated near the town of Savusavu in Vanua Levu, the second main island of Fiji. The marriage ceremony was almost finished. It was time for the civil wedding. The groom’s younger brother had informed me that the witness from the bride’s side would be Durga
- [The Martyrdom of Fr Tony Collier](https://columbans.ie/the-martyrdom-of-fr-tony-collier/) - To mark the 70th anniversary of the death of Columban martyr Fr Tony Collier, we publish here the sworn account of his catechist Gabriel Kim of the last days of Fr Tony. The account outlines the circumstances of his death. Gabriel Kim himself was shot while tied to Fr Tony and was buried along with
- [Labasa picks up the pieces after tropical cyclone Ana](https://columbans.ie/labasa-picks-up-the-pieces-after-tropical-cyclone-ana/) - Fr Carlo Jung is a Columban missionary from Korea ministering in Fiji. He explains how tropical cyclone Ana, which recently hit the town of Labasa where he is parish priest of Holy Family Parish, left a lot of damage in its wake. “There was widespread flooding in the country for two weeks. Families in the
- [Seminary Life During Lockdown](https://columbans.ie/seminary-life-during-lockdown/) - Lockdown changed life in the Philippines for Columban seminarian Jerry Lohera and spurred him to get planting fruit and vegetables to ease the stress. From September 2019 up to the first week of March 2020, I and four other Columban seminarians (one from Fiji, two from Myanmar and one from the Philippines) used to take
- [Columbans featured on 'Out & About' radio programme](https://columbans.ie/columbans-featured-on-out-about-radio-programme/) - Dublin City FM is currently broadcasting a series of programmes featuring interviews with Columbans living in Ireland. ‘Out & About’ is presented by Paul Wright on Thursdays at 1pm on the Dublin station. Last week’s show (21 January), this week’s show (28 Jan) and the Thursday 4th February feature Fr Donie Hogan. Five further programmes
- [Meet a Columban - Fr Pat Visanti](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-pat-visanti/) - In this episode of ‘Meet a Columban’, Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Fijian missionary Fr Pat Visanti who has been working in Pakistan since his ordination in 2017.
- [Saying goodbye to my friend Fr Patrick Murphy](https://columbans.ie/saying-goodbye-to-my-friend-fr-patrick-murphy/) - From my youth I developed a strong friendship with the Columban missionaries that ministered in Jeju (Korea). Fr Patrick Murphy was in Mosulpo and I became a long-time friend, writes Kang Kyung-Sue [Andrew]. One afternoon at the beginning of summer the two of us sat on a bench in the garden spending a long time
- [Fr Sean McDonagh's new book looks at our digital future](https://columbans.ie/fr-sean-mcdonaghs-new-book-looks-at-our-digital-future/) - What would we do without our technology? Researchers have used AI to find vaccines for the coronavirus in a record-breaking nine months, platforms such as WhatsApp and Zoom have enabled millions of families to communicate with each other during the pandemic and Alexa is now a common presence and aid in the home today. But
- [Steady stream of entries for Columban Schools Competition](https://columbans.ie/steady-stream-of-entries-for-columban-schools-competition/) - A steady stream of entries have been coming into this year’s Columban Schools Media competition, writes Ellen Teague of Columban JPIC Media. With less than a month to go before the competition closes on 20th February, there is still time to submit entries either in the writing or image categories. This year the theme is,
- [Columbans participate in World Religion Day](https://columbans.ie/columbans-participate-in-world-religion-day/) - Michael O’Sullivan, Inter-religious Dialogue (IRD) Co-ordinator for the Irish region, writes about the celebration of World Religion Day which took place on Sunday 17th January 2021. World Religion Day is an observance that was initiated in 1950 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baháʼís of the United States. It is celebrated worldwide on the
- [UN Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons: Columban statement](https://columbans.ie/columban-statement-on-un-treaty-on-the-prohibition-of-nuclear-weapons/) - To Reconcile the Nations and to Heal the Earth Statement of the Missionary Society of St Columban on the United Nations Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons "I felt a duty to come here as a pilgrim of peace, to stand in silent prayer, to recall the innocent victims of such violence, and to
- [Meet a Columban - Jao Resari](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-jao-resari/) - In this episode of ‘Meet a Columban’, Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Jao Resari, a Columban Lay Missionary since 2005. Jao works with Agape Centre for HIV and AIDS in Taiwan and uses her talent as an artist to promote message of solidarity with people living with HIV and AIDS.
- [Ecological Conversion: an ecclesial awakening?](https://columbans.ie/ecological-conversion-an-ecclesial-awakening/) - Fr Patrick McMullan, a member of the regional council in Korea, writes about the need for ecological conversion as a rediscovery and deepening of the Hebrew insight that God creates, not just saves, the entire world. It seems normal now, but when I first came to Korea, I was surprised that the country celebrated two
- [Columbans in the US call for renewed moral vision](https://columbans.ie/columbans-in-the-us-call-for-renewed-moral-vision/) - Fr John Burger, Regional Director of the Columbans in the US, calls for a renewed moral vision in response to the assault on the Capitol in Washington earlier this month. “For the last 103 years, the Missionary Society of St Columban has been engaged in the works of evangelisation, justice and mercy, striving to improve
- [Covid vaccine rollout at Dalgan Nursing Home](https://columbans.ie/covid-vaccine-roll-out-at-dalgan-nursing-home/) - The residents, staff and management of our Nursing Home in Dalgan received the first injection of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine on Friday 8th January. We were visited by the team from the HSE, who administered the vaccine. The doctor who gave me the injection was a niece of the late Fr Michael Healy SSC. She said
- [Fr Terence Bennett](https://columbans.ie/fr-terence-bennett/) - Fr Terence (“Terry”) Bennett was born in Omagh, Co Tyrone on 15th December 1926. He was educated at Loreto Convent PES, and CBS Omagh. He came to Dalgan in 1944 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1950. Appointed to the Philippines, he was among the pioneer Columbans who worked ceaselessly to restore the neglected
- [Reflection for 2021](https://columbans.ie/reflection-for-2021/) - We have now entered a New Year - 2021. It doesn't seem long ago since we entered a new millennium, writes Sr Abbie O'Sullivan. How time has flown by. ‘Tempus fugit’ as the ancient philosophers proclaimed. How everything has changed during the past twenty years and how we have changed too. Such upheavals in our
- [Sean's Trooper](https://columbans.ie/seans-trooper/) - In the middle of the half acre plot in which the rectory of Savannah Lar Mar Catholic parish is situated, a mango tree has pride of place, writes Fr Bobby Gilmore. Not only is the tree admired for its expanse and the shade it offers in the dead tropical heat of this town beside the
- [2020 Review by Fr Liam O'Callaghan in Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/2020-review-by-fr-liam-ocallaghan-in-pakistan/) - Last year was turned upside-down by the Covid-19 pandemic, which caused such devastation, death and suffering; worldwide almost 80 million people have been infected with 1.75 million deaths. Many experts see those figures almost certainly to be an under-estimation. With further spikes of infections and new variants of the virus emerging, resulting in fresh lockdowns
- [Highlights of Preda Foundation's work in 2020](https://columbans.ie/highlights-of-preda-foundations-work-in-2020/) - Many children saved As many as a hundred children were saved and recovered at the five Preda homes for abused children in 2020, a happy record of healing and empowerment. One of the important highlights during 2020 is that all the children and the staff have thankfully remained free of Covid-19. The protective measures implemented
- [Discovering Human Dignity](https://columbans.ie/discovering-human-dignity/) - When I see the newly arrived children - all victims of human right violations and sexual abuse - healing and recovering in our Preda Foundation home and striving to be “good,” to be a “better person", somehow thinking they are “bad,” I and the Preda staff continuously tell them in Filipino that: “You are good children
- [New milestone for Xavier College in Suva](https://columbans.ie/new-milestone-for-xavier-college-in-suva/) - Xavier College was established in 1953 as a boys' school by the Catholic Archdiocese of Suva, writes Fr Pat Colgan, SSC, to provide Christian education, particularly to Indian youth in the western part of Fiji. It was entrusted to the Columban Fathers at the request of Bishop Foley SM. The latter saw education, particularly of
- [Meet a Columban - Fr Vincent Busch SSC](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-vincent-busch-ssc/) - In this episode of 'Meet a Columban', Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Fr Vincent Busch who has been a missionary in the Philippines since 1974. He currently works with the Subanen people of Mindanao.
- [New Year's Message from Fr Ray Husband](https://columbans.ie/new-years-message-from-fr-ray-husband/) - On 24 November 1992, Queen Elizabeth II gave a speech at the Guildhall London to mark the 40th anniversary of her accession to the throne. In her speech the Queen referred to recent events as part of an 'annus horribilis’. She went on to say that “1992 is not a year on which I shall
- [Lighting the Christmas Candle at Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/lighting-the-christmas-candle-at-dalgan/) - Putting a candle in the window is a very Irish tradition which is said to date from Penal times. At Christmas the candle was often lit by the youngest child in the house and put in the window to indicate a place of welcome to the Baby Jesus and the stranger. "Back home in Limerick,
- [“Let's be fascinated again with the true story of Christmas”](https://columbans.ie/lets-be-fascinated-again-with-the-true-story-of-christmas/) - ‘Silent night, Holy night All is calm, all is bright.’ These words were written in 1816 by a young Austrian priest, Joseph Mohr after the destruction brought about by the Napoleonic Wars. His friend, Franz Gruber wrote the music in 1818 and said, “Song of praise and love. Saviour of the world - a Baby
- [Join the Columbans in Dalgan for Advent 2020](https://columbans.ie/join-the-columbans-in-dalgan-for-advent-2020/) - The Columbans in Dalgan Park would like to invite you to join them on social media in the lighting of the Advent and Christmas Candles. Over the four Sundays of Advent and on Christmas Eve we will light the Advent and Christmas Candles for your intentions. 29th November - 1st Sunday of Advent: Keep Hope
- [4th Sunday of Advent: Rejoice and be Glad](https://columbans.ie/4th-sunday-of-advent-rejoice-and-be-glad/) - Fr Pat Raleigh, celebrating the anniversary of his ordination to priesthood, led the liturgy in Dalgan for the Lighting of the Advent Candle on the 4th Sunday of Advent. “We gather as a community to light our fourth candle as a sign of walking in the light of Christ. Living through the Covid-19 pandemic, with
- [Christmas carols for and from Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/christmas-carols-for-and-from-dalgan/) - Happy Christmas from the Region of Ireland - Nollaig Shona dhaoibh! Giovanna and Ephrem Feeley present an evening of carols, dedicated to the Columban community at Dalgan Park, Navan. Columban lay missionaries and priests sing Oíche Chiúin (Silent Night) in the chapel in Dalgan.
- [2020: Marked by Covid-19 and Horrendous Environmental Damage](https://columbans.ie/2020-marked-by-covid-19-and-horrendous-environmental-damage/) - The year 2020 was synonymous with Covid-19. The virus was first recognised in Wuhan in China in late 2019. It was highly infectious and spread quickly in China, before moving on to Europe, the United States, Latin America and Africa. In December 2020 in the US, the richest country in the world, over 16 million
- [China: Advent as a time of waiting and hope](https://columbans.ie/china-advent-as-a-time-of-waiting-and-hope/) - Reflection by a Catholic in Wuhan who prefers not to be named. As Zhu Liqing walked towards the altar in the Offertory procession for the first Sunday of Advent in Wuhan, I wondered about what might be happening deep in her heart with each unfolding step along the centre aisle of Holy Family Church. In
- [Empowerment of women and girls an urgent need: Fr Shay Cullen](https://columbans.ie/empowerment-of-women-and-girls-an-urgent-need-fr-shay-cullen/) - The empowerment of women and girls is a most urgent need in today’s world where discrimination, violence and exploitation of women and girls, especially in the developing world, is tearing the heart out of society and family life causing human suffering, exclusion, sickness and death, writes Fr Shay Cullen. Education is the key to empowering
- [Christmas Greetings from our Columban seminarians](https://columbans.ie/christmas-greetings-from-our-columban-seminarians/) - This Christmas many families will miss out on meeting up with loved ones due to travel restrictions aimed at combatting the ongoing threat from the Covid-19 virus. Our Columban seminarians in Korea, the Philippines, Myanmar and Fiji send you special Christmas greetings and sing a Christmas carol – to bring some cheer to our Columban
- [Fr Martin Murphy](https://columbans.ie/fr-martin-murphy/) - Fr Martin Murphy was born on 14th April 1929 at Enniscorthy, Co Wexford. He was educated at Glenbrien NS, CBS Enniscorthy, and St Peter’s College, Wexford. He came to Dalgan in September 1948 and was ordained priest on 21 December 1954. Appointed to the Philippines in 1955, he was assigned to the northern Luzon Diocese
- [Christmas rush in Fiji](https://columbans.ie/christmas-rush-in-fiji-dashing-from-one-prayer-meeting-to-the-next/) - While the rest of the world shops and parties frenetically in December, the people in Fiji busy themselves too – in providing retreats, carol singing and charitable outreaches to the less fortunate. Last 14th December was one such pre-Christmas Saturday for the Columban seminarians undertaking their spiritual year. We began by offering our house to
- [Christmas in ‘Paradise’](https://columbans.ie/christmas-in-paradise/) - Columban Father John Boles celebrated Christmas Mass in ‘Paradise’ last year. It was not the future paradise we all aspire to but something from the past - a 4,000-year-old temple in Peru. People often boast about having celebrated Mass in churches that are centuries old, such as the great cathedrals of Europe. But what about
- [2nd Sunday of Advent: Cherish Life](https://columbans.ie/2nd-sunday-of-advent-cherish-life/) - On the Second Sunday of Advent, the theme is cherishing life. In the chapel in Dalgan Park, Fr Cyril Lovett prayed that, “the Lord will grant us an ever greater sense of the wonderful mystery of his life-giving presence in the bits and pieces of our lives, that human life may be respected, treasured and
- [“Keep on Walking”](https://columbans.ie/keep-on-walking/) - Columban Fr Dylan Tabaco tells Fr John Boles how he thought he knew all about walking, until he came to Peru and met someone who’d walked across half a continent. The Covid-19 pandemic may have brought hardship and tragedy to countless numbers throughout the world, but it also has had the effect of bringing out
- [The Shimmering Promise of Bethlehem](https://columbans.ie/the-shimmering-promise-of-bethlehem/) - Advent is a time for anticipation, but it is also a time to remember some important basic truths writes Fr John Burger. In 2013, after twelve years in administrative assignments with the Columbans, I was given the chance to take a sabbatical. I seized the opportunity and chose to do a six-week course at the
- [China Church Solidarity](https://columbans.ie/china-church-solidarity/) - Columban missionary Fr Eamonn O’Brien appeals for financial support for a new monastery of Augustinian nuns which opened in China in recent years and which is also running a home for the elderly. I have been visiting China since 1979 and working there for twenty years. In 2014, we were able to open an active
- [New website dedicated to Columban martyrs in Korea](https://columbans.ie/new-website-dedicated-to-columban-martyrs-in-korea/) - Stephanie McNamara, the niece of Fr Tommie Cusack, one of the seven Columban priests killed during the Korean War, has launched a new website which gathers together information and resources on the seven martyrs. On the website, Stephanie recalls how during the Korean War, the names of missing priests were announced on the radio at
- [Feature on Fr James Maginn and Columban Martyrs in Korea](https://columbans.ie/irish-news-features-fr-james-maginn-and-columban-martyrs-in-korea/) - Columban martyr Fr James Maginn was featured in a recent edition of the Irish News. The feature in ‘Faith Matters’ was prompted by a previous article on Ireland's missionary tradition. It encouraged Mary Kane to share the remarkable story of Fr James Maginn, a relative of hers, with Irish News readers. Fr Maginn grew up
- [Mass for the Feast of St Columban from Dalgan Park](https://columbans.ie/mass-for-the-feast-of-st-columban-from-dalgan-park/) - On Monday 23 November 2020, Fr Alo Connaughton SSC celebrated Mass for the Feast of St Columban, patron of the Society, with the community in Dalgan Park, Navan, Co Meath.
- [Fr Anthony Mortell](https://columbans.ie/fr-anthony-mortell/) - Fr Anthony (‘Tony’) Mortell was born in Mallow, Co Cork on 28th August 1935. He was educated at the Patrician Brothers, Mallow before coming to Dalgan in 1954 where he was ordained priest on 21st December 1960. Appointed to Korea in 1961, he was assigned to Kwangju archdiocese after initial language studies and became familiar
- [Fr Chris Baker reflects on 70 years as a Columban priest](https://columbans.ie/fr-chris-baker-reflects-on-70-years-as-a-columban-priest/) - Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Fr Chris Baker about celebrating the 70th anniversary of his ordination and being one of three boys in his family who joined the Columbans in Australia. The body may be bent now. An occasional walking stick supports movement. The muscles that once pushed it through rugged bush paths and up
- [St Columban: "more an eagle than a dove"](https://columbans.ie/st-columban-more-an-eagle-than-a-dove/) - To mark the Feast day of St Columban – patron of the Columbans - we publish an extract of Sr Redempta Twomey’s 2015 talks for RTE Radio on this inspirational Irish missionary who died in Bobbio in 615. In the Columban chapel in Dalgan, Co Meath there is a little statue of our patron. A
- [Celebrate the Feast of St Columbanus on 23rd November](https://columbans.ie/celebrate-the-feast-of-st-columbanus-on-23-november-2020/) - Celebrate the Feast of St Columbanus with the Columbans in Dalgan Park, Navan Monday 23rd November 2020 at 7pm. We invite our families, supporters, co-workers, friends of Columbanus to tune into our Eucharist to give thanks and pray together as we continue to support one another from a distance during the Covid-19 pandemic. The liturgical
- [Meet a Columban - Fr Pat Colgan](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-pat-colgan/) - In this episode of 'Meet a Columban', the Regional Director of Oceania Fr Trevor Trotter speaks to Belfast-native Fr Pat Colgan, parish priest of Christ the King in Ba, Fiji.
- [Virtual cross-community church service to celebrate Columbanus](https://columbans.ie/virtual-cross-community-church-service-to-celebrate-st-columbanus/) - This year the Friends of Columbanus Bangor are hosting a virtual cross-community church service to celebrate the life and legacy of St Columbanus. The cross-community, ecumenical service, entitled ‘A United Celebration of Columbanus’ takes place on Sunday 15th November at 7pm. The recorded service has been filmed in St Columbanus Church, Bangor, Co Down, Northern Ireland
- [Archbishop Grawng: What a blessing he was to all of us!](https://columbans.ie/archbishop-paul-grawng-what-a-blessing-he-was-to-all-of-us/) - Columban missionary Fr Neil Magill pays tribute to Archbishop Paul Grawng, who succeeded Columban Bishop John Howe as Bishop of Myitkyina and was a great friend to the Society. In 1970, I was a theology student at our Columban seminary in Ireland and in the college we had a book store. I was one
- [Vida Hequilan reflects on the call to Columban Lay Mission](https://columbans.ie/vida-hequilan-reflects-on-the-call-to-columban-lay-mission/) - Vida Hequilan, Coordinator of Lay Missionary Central Leadership Team in Hong Kong, writes about 30 years of Columban Lay Mission. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Columban Lay Missionaries (CLM). Looking back on the past three decades has made me realize how far we have come to where we are now; the progress
- [Celebrating 30 years of Columban Lay Missionaries](https://columbans.ie/celebrating-30-years-of-columban-lay-missionaries/) - This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Columban Lay Missionaries (CLM). Vida Hequilan of the Lay Mission Leadership Team in Hong Kong reflects on the significance of this milestone and some of the events connected to it. In the midst of all the uncertainties and challenges that this year has wrought upon the world
- [Columban formation in the Covid-19 pandemic](https://columbans.ie/columban-formation-in-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - The Coronavirus inspires us to be more creative, more patient and more flexible than ever, writes Fr Alvaro Martinez of the General Council, as he explains how the Society’s formation programmes have been affected by the challenges of the Covid-19 crisis. Manila and Seoul started their formation programmes in August, Manila with 13 seminarians
- [Prepare the Future - Vocation for Justice](https://columbans.ie/prepare-the-future-vocation-for-justice/) - A recent collaboration between the Columbans in Britain and Million Minutes saw young Catholics come together for a series of online formation sessions during lockdown. Special guests included Matthew Van Duyvenbode from The Trussell Trust, discussing foodbanks, and Katrina Alton CSJP on vocation, prayer and protest. One participant, Anna Fraine, with the support of the
- [Meet a Columban - Fr Warren Kinne](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-fr-warren-kinne/) - In this episode of 'Meet a Columban', Fr Jim Mulroney speaks to Fr Warren Kinne SSC, who has been a Columban missionary for more than 50 years. He spent 20 of those years in China.
- [God seems to be quiet](https://columbans.ie/god-seems-to-be-quiet/) - Columban Lay Missionary Angie Escarsa reflects on the Covid-19 crisis and believes that God is not silent but is speaking to us more than ever during this pandemic. For months, my family has been faithful in praying the rosary as requested by Pope Francis after the World Health Organisation declared Covid-19 a pandemic. Since March
- [Who are the Columbans?](https://columbans.ie/who-are-the-columbans/) - An inside look into the Missionary Society of St Columban. A Society of missionary priests and lay people who work in 16 countries around the world. Founded in 1918 by two young Irish priests, Frs Edward Galvin and John Blowick, the Society takes its name from St Columban. Working in places where the Gospel has
- [Funeral of Korean scholar Fr Kevin O'Rourke SSC in Seoul](https://columbans.ie/funeral-of-korean-scholar-fr-kevin-orourke-ssc-in-seoul/) - Columban missionary Fr Kevin O’Rourke, Korea’s first foreign literary scholar who translated more than 2,000 Korean literary works into English, has been laid to rest in Seoul. Fr Kevin died on 23 October aged 81 and his funeral was held on 26 October at the Missionary Society of St Columban house in Seoul. Born in
- [Fr Bobby Gilmore asks: 'Who are the Excluded?'](https://columbans.ie/who-are-the-excluded/) - It always seems to me that those who are without power, who have to create their own in a makeshift way, know more about life than those who govern. (John Berger) Albert Artwell, Jamaican artist, lived in my area of Jamaica. He was deeply influenced by his Rastafarian faith. Many of his works depicted Biblical
- [A dentist is called to priesthood with the Columbans](https://columbans.ie/a-dentist-is-called-to-priesthood-with-the-columbans/) - Sharing my vocation story stirs up mixed feelings within me. On the one hand I think of a vocation as something personal and sacred, but I remember that such stories shared by priests, the religious, and lay people have helped me throughout my faith journey. The stories remind me of Catholic saints who have enlivened
- [Columban Ministry to Haitians in Chile](https://columbans.ie/columban-ministry-to-haitians-in-chile/) - Bon jou mesye - Good day, Sir. Bonswa madam - Good evening, Madam. Koman ou ye - How are you doing? Mèsi - Thank you. Tanpri mon amour - Please my love. Mwen pral vizite prèt pawas la nan legliz la - I am going to visit the parish priest at the church. Walking around
- [Memorial plaque to commemorate Andrea in Peru](https://columbans.ie/memorial-plaque-to-commemorate-andrea-in-peru/) - A memorial plaque commemorating Andrea Xiomara Alvarez Rojas will be officially unveiled at the Manuel Duato Special Needs School in Peru on the Feast of the Lord of the Miracles. The plaque recognises Andrea’s role in raising donations which helped finance recent work to improve the Lima school’s structures and resources. The donations were received
- [Columbans publish bonus episode on biodiversity: ‘The Death of Life’](https://columbans.ie/columbans-publish-bonus-podcast-on-biodiversity-the-death-of-life/) - The Columban Centre for Advocacy and Outreach has produced a bonus episode of the ‘Jubilee for the Earth’ series on biodiversity. It highlights select passages from ‘The Death of Life: The Horror of Extinction’ by Columban priest and eco-theologian Fr Sean McDonagh. Fr McDonagh’s work on biodiversity has had a wide reach – most notably,
- [Bonus podcast on biodiversity: ‘The Death of Life’](https://columbans.ie/bonus-podcast-on-biodiversity-the-death-of-life/) - The Columban Centre for Advocacy and Outreach has produced a bonus episode of the ‘Jubilee for the Earth’ series on biodiversity. It highlights select passages from ‘The Death of Life: The Horror of Extinction’ by Columban priest and eco-theologian Fr Sean McDonagh. Fr McDonagh’s work on biodiversity has had a wide reach – most notably,
- [Finding God during our times of confinement](https://columbans.ie/finding-god-during-our-times-of-confinement/) - Fr Paul Glynn is the Regional Director of the Columbans in the Philippines. He has drawn on his experience of confinement some years ago when the situation was tense in the Southern Philippines to help him through the Covid-19 lockdown. Like many other Columban missionaries before me, I have devoted many years to trying to
- [Fr Shay Cullen reflects on the new encyclical Fratelli Tutti](https://columbans.ie/fr-shay-cullen-reflects-on-pope-francis-new-encyclical-fratelli-tutti/) - Can humanity ever be united in doing good, asks Fr Shay Cullen. Pope Francis’ new encyclical, Fratelli Tutti - ‘Brothers and Sisters All’ is one that should touch every heart, stimulate our minds, awaken our conscience, warm our emotions and motivate us to do good and make this a happier, just and better world.
- [A New Beginning | Jubilee for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/a-new-beginning-jubilee-for-the-earth/) - Our challenge today as people of faith is to re-imagine the Biblical vision of Jubilee for the earth and all people for the 21st century. In our age of ecological crisis - where rampant consumerism and indifference to the holiness of Earth’s biodiversity is the default - how can each of us help build a
- [Columbans launch schools media competition: ‘End Racism’](https://columbans.ie/columbans-launch-schools-media-competition-end-racism/) - This week the Columbans in Ireland launched the 2021 schools media competition. This year’s theme is ‘Let's Create A World Without Racism’. The competition is open to students aged 14-18 years old. The objective is to encourage students to use their media skills to look at an issue which is relevant to society today and
- [Living with Covid-19 in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/living-with-covid-19-in-dalgan/) - Some thoughts and messages from Columban missionaries and staff in Dalgan Park to the wider community about living with Covid-19.
- [Two Columbans feature in documentary on the Amazon](https://columbans.ie/two-columbans-feature-in-newstalk-documentary-on-the-amazon/) - This weekend a documentary airs on Newstalk Radio featuring two Columban missionaries working in the Amazon. In 'From the Amazon to the Emerald Isle', producer Brian Kenny looks at the connection between the Amazon and Ireland and the real impact of climate change. We hear from Fr Peter Hughes and Fr Liam Carey, who have
- [No Land to Live On | Jubilee for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/no-land-to-live-on-jubilee-for-the-earth-2/) - Because of the damage we are inflicting upon the Earth, more and more land is becoming uninhabitable. In 2017 alone, 68.5 million people were forcibly displaced by conflict, poverty, or environmental factors, more than at any point in human history. Climate change and biodiversity loss create environmental conditions that strain local economies and exacerbate conflicts
- [No Land to Live On | Jubilee for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/no-land-to-live-on-jubilee-for-the-earth/) - Because of the damage we are inflicting upon the Earth, more and more land is becoming uninhabitable. In 2017 alone, 68.5 million people were forcibly displaced by conflict, poverty, or environmental factors, more than at any point in human history. Climate change and biodiversity loss create environmental conditions that strain local economies and exacerbate conflicts
- [Nonviolence for the Earth | Jubilee for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/nonviolence-for-the-earth-jubilee-for-the-earth/) - Columbans have come to believe that violence done to the Earth itself is a part of war, whether through habitat destruction, the extraction of resources for weapons, or the murder of environmental defenders. We see all too frequently how many international and national laws that are designed to protect fragile ecosystems and human rights are
- [Building work at Manuel Duato special needs school](https://columbans.ie/building-work-at-manuel-duato-special-needs-school/) - Columban missionary Fr John Boles has sent some images of the recent building work underway at the Manuel Duato special needs school in Lima. According to Fr Boles, the work is progressing thanks to recent donations received from Columban benefactors, particularly those sent in response to the ‘Andrea Álvarez Appeal’. Manuel Duato is a school
- [St Columban's lesson for the Season of Creation](https://columbans.ie/st-columbans-lesson-for-the-season-of-creation/) - In the third reflection for the Season of Creation, Fr Sean McDonagh speaks about St Columban’s Sermon I when he said, “Understand the creation if you want to know about the Creator”. According to Fr Sean, “Learning about creation tells us who God is in our world today. This is very much in line with
- [Columban Message for World Day of Prayer for Migrants & Refugees](https://columbans.ie/columban-message-on-the-world-day-of-prayer-for-migrants-and-refugees/) - The General Council of the Missionary Society of St Columban has prepared a message to mark World Day of Prayer for Migrants and Refugees. HONG KONG, September 27, 2020 On this World Day of Prayer for Migrants and Refugees, Columban missionaries around the world lift up the cry of our sisters and brothers who have
- [Embarking on the Path of Dialogue | Jubilee for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/embarking-on-the-path-of-dialogue-jubilee-for-the-earth-2/) - The call to wonder at the beauty of creation, and in doing so give praise to God, is at the heart of most of the world’s religions and spiritualties. In his encyclical letter on the environment, called Laudato Si’, Pope Francis acknowledges that “the majority of people living on our planet profess to be believers.
- [Law making 16 the Age of Consent must be passed](https://columbans.ie/law-making-16-the-age-of-consent-must-be-passed/) - The Philippines has one of the lowest age of consent anywhere in the world. That is now about to change as women members of the Philippine Congress drive for change, writes Fr Shay Cullen SSC. Jennifer (not her real name) was only 12 years old when an adult neighbour, a man 37 years old in
- [Lockdown in Korea](https://columbans.ie/lockdown-in-korea/) - I was reading an article in the Irish Examiner that people’s mental health has been affected by the closure of the pubs in Ireland. No word about the closure of the Churches. I have just received word from the Cathedral in Seoul that English Masses may resume. I have had no Mass for the English-speaking
- [Embarking on the Path of Dialogue | Jubilee for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/embarking-on-the-path-of-dialogue-jubilee-for-the-earth/) - The call to wonder at the beauty of creation, and in doing so give praise to God, is at the heart of most of the world’s religions and spiritualties. In his encyclical letter on the environment, Laudato Si’, Pope Francis acknowledges that “the majority of people living on our planet profess to be believers. This
- [Laudato Si – “one of the most important encyclicals ever issued”](https://columbans.ie/laudato-si-one-of-the-most-important-encyclicals-ever-issued-by-a-pope/) - In a new interview, eco theologian and Columban missionary, Fr Sean McDonagh, speaks about the importance of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si – “one of the most important encyclicals ever issued by a pope”. The document takes its opening line from a prayer by St Francis, who was most sensitive to God’s presence in the
- [The Spirituality of Biodiversity | Jubilee for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/the-spirituality-of-biodiversity-jubilee-for-the-earth/) - Our patron St Columban famously said, “if you want to know the Creator, look at creation.” As Catholics, Columbans believe that creation – animals, plants, ecosystems, and all natural things – is a sacred gift from God and that God is revealed to us through each member of creation. But has this fundamental teaching of
- [A New Kind of Economy | Jubilee for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/a-new-kind-of-economy-jubilee-for-the-earth-2/) - In 2019, the United Nations published their Global Resource Outlook which concluded that “90% of biodiversity loss is caused by resource extraction and processing.” This includes human activities like habitat destruction for agriculture and mining and the over-consumption of natural resources like non-renewable energy and fishing stock. “We need to grow in the conviction” Pope
- [A New Kind of Economy | Jubilee for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/a-new-kind-of-economy-jubilee-for-the-earth/) - In 2019, the United Nations published their Global Resource Outlook which concluded that “90% of biodiversity loss is caused by resource extraction and processing.” This includes human activities like habitat destruction for agriculture and mining and the over-consumption of natural resources like non-renewable energy and fishing stock. “We need to grow in the conviction” Pope
- [Fr Peter Hughes SSC speaks about the Amazon](https://columbans.ie/fr-peter-hughes-ssc-speaks-about-the-amazon/) - Fr Malachy Smyth interviews Columban Fr Peter Hughes who is on mission in Peru. He shares some of his knowledge of, and interest in the Amazon Region, which he refers to as the 'Lungs of Planet Earth'. He stresses that the people of the Amazon "have not been invited to the 'Table of the Modern
- [86-year-old Chinese woman recalls Bishop Edward Galvin](https://columbans.ie/86-year-old-chinese-woman-recalls-bishop-edward-galvin/) - Two weeks ago, Fr Paul announced with great excitement what seemed to be his discovery of the pearl of great price. In terms of Church history in this area of China, the discovery brought a broad smile to his face. The source of his excitement was the news shared with him by an 86-year-old woman
- [First Columban Mission to China 1920](https://columbans.ie/first-columban-mission-to-china-1920/) - One hundred years ago the first Columbans arrived in China. Fr Neil Collins recalls the challenges they faced in places like Hanyang – “a city of no Catholics”. "Didn’t this luggage belong to the Irish missionaries to China?" asked a dock worker in Liverpool. Fr Edward Galvin claimed the bags, his own and those of
- ['We must get the message out on the Season of Creation'](https://columbans.ie/we-must-get-the-message-out-on-the-season-of-creation-fr-sean-mcdonagh/) - Eco theologian and Columban missionary, Fr Sean McDonagh, speaks about the importance of the Season of Creation for the Church and the planet. He highlights how changes in agricultural practices have negatively impacted ground nesting birds in Ireland like the corncrake and the curlew, and he appeals to Christians to live in a sustainable way.
- [Preda Ireland plays role in probe into youth detention centres](https://columbans.ie/preda-ireland-plays-role-in-probe-into-youth-detention-centres/) - Columban missionary Fr Shay Cullen reflects on the power of global advocacy and highlights the need to close the jail-like Bahay Pag-asa and other youth detention centres in the Philippines. The power of global advocacy has ignited an investigation by the Philippine Commission on Human Rights (CHR) into the torture and abuse of young boys
- [7 Days of Creation Reflection-Retreat](https://columbans.ie/7-days-of-creation-reflection-retreat/) - 7 Days of Creation Reflection-Retreat offers a prayerful way for believers preparing to celebrate 1st September as World Day of Prayer for Creation, proclaimed jointly by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Pope Francis on 1 September 2017. This seven-day reflection reinforces the officially sanctioned ecumenical celebration of the World Day of Prayer for Creation. “We are
- [Fr Peadar O'Loughlin](https://columbans.ie/fr-peadar-oloughlin/) - Peadar was born on 1 March 1944 in Loughville, Ennis. He received his early education in the Convent of Mercy and Christian Brothers in Ennis. When he finished school he worked for several years as Office Manager with McInerney Housing Ltd before joining the Columbans in Dalgan in 1970. Peadar was ordained in Ennis on
- [What the destruction of biodiversity means: Fr Sean McDonagh](https://columbans.ie/what-the-destruction-of-biodiversity-means-fr-sean-mcdonagh/) - It is clear today that the destruction of biodiversity is having enormous negative impacts both on the planet and on human wellbeing. As humans continue to colonise and degrade many ecosystems on earth, this can lead to an increase in bats, rats and other animals which harbour diseases which can cause pandemics, such as Covid-19.
- [Meet a Columban: Society Leader Fr Tim Mulroy](https://columbans.ie/meet-a-columban-society-leader-fr-tim-mulroy/) - In latest episode of ‘Meet a Columban’, the Regional Director of Oceania, Fr Trevor Trotter SSC, speaks to Columban Society Leader, Fr Tim Mulroy SSC. Originally from Meelick, Swinford, Co Mayo, Fr Tim was Regional Director in the US between 2012-2018. He worked in parish ministry in Japan from 1995 until 2002 and served in
- [Columban Message on 75th anniversary of Hiroshima and Nagasaki](https://columbans.ie/columban-message-of-peace-and-nonviolence-on-75th-anniversary-of-atomic-bombings-of-hiroshima-and-nagasaki/) - Columban Message of Peace and Nonviolence on the 75th anniversary of the Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki HONG KONG, August 3, 2020 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of the atomic bombings by the United States of the Japanese cities of Hiroshima (August 6) and Nagasaki (August 9). By the end of the year, 1945,
- [New Columban podcast series on biodiversity begins on 31 August](https://columbans.ie/new-columban-podcast-series-on-biodiversity-begins-on-31-august/) - On Monday, 31 August 2020, the Missionary Society of St Columban will release a new podcast mini-series, 'Jubilee for the Earth: Biodiversity and Our Sacred Story,' about the beauty of biodiversity and the threats it faces. The podcast is launching in time for the 2020 Season of Creation (1 September – 4 October). Our patron
- [Fr Bobby Gilmore pays tribute to John Hume](https://columbans.ie/fr-bobby-gilmore-pays-tribute-to-john-hume/) - Sometime towards the end of the 1960s while listening to the BBC World Service the name of John Hume came across the undulating air waves. His name was connected to what was described as unrest in Northern Ireland arising out of discrimination felt over time by the nationalist Catholic community. Later newspaper cuttings sent by
- [Online guide for a nine-step Turas Columbanus pilgrim/heritage walk](https://columbans.ie/online-guide-for-a-nine-step-turas-columbanus-pilgrim-heritage-walk/) - During the current Covid-19 pandemic, it is not possible for many people to walk some of the Turas Columbanus/Columban Way route from Mt Leinster on the Wexford/Carlow border to Bangor, Co Down. However, the Association Friends of St Columbanus has put together a Nine Step Turas Columbanus/Columban Way Pilgrim/Heritage Walk that focuses on the central
- [Fr Ed O'Connell reports on Peru's no-win Covid-19 situation](https://columbans.ie/fr-ed-oconnell-reports-on-perus-no-win-covid-19-situation/) - National Independence Days, 28th and 29th July, were anything but the usual holiday! The Archbishop of Lima in his Te Deum homily called on all to work for the Common Good. The President gave a long address to the Congress on the 28th July, broadcast nationally, recognising the sacrifices of those who died of Covid-19
- [Fr Eamon Sheridan speaks about his ministry in Myanmar](https://columbans.ie/fr-eamon-sheridan-speaks-about-his-ministry-in-myanmar/) - An interview with Columban missionary Fr Eamon Sheridan who speaks about his work with those addicted to heroin and the 12-step programme. "Addiction is an insidious disease."
- [Fr Seamus O'Connor](https://columbans.ie/fr-seamus-oconnor/) - Seamus O’Connor was born in Tullamore on the 25 February1926. He was educated in St Brigid’s NS and St Finian’s, Mullingar and joined the Columbans in Navan in 1944. He was ordained on 21 December 1950 and was part of the first Columban group assigned to Fiji. He spent his first term on mission in
- [Fr John Boles mourns the passing of Andrea](https://columbans.ie/fr-john-boles-mourns-the-passing-of-andrea/) - I am writing to you from Lima with the sad news of the death of Andrea Álvarez. She was the severely disabled girl in Peru that I wrote about in my article, ‘A Life for Andrea’, which was published in the May/June 2020 issue of the Far East magazine, and which elicited a very generous
- [San Benito: Community Kitchens in Times of Covid-19](https://columbans.ie/san-benito-community-kitchens-in-times-of-covid-19/) - Columban missionary Fr Ed O’Connell writes from Peru about the desperate plight of the people of San Benito, a township on the outskirts of the capital Lima, who have been severely affected by the Coronavirus pandemic. Mass unemployment connected to the Covid-19 crisis has hit the community hard. The State has not been able to
- [Collaborators in Columban Mission](https://columbans.ie/collaborators-in-columban-mission/) - Columban Fr George Hogarty writes about the missionary journey of Jorge ‘Coco’ Juaregui and his wife, Rosa Ramirez, which began when the Columban Fathers assumed responsibility for a rapidly expanding housing estate being built on land that was once part of a large rural hacienda called Santa Rosa near Jorge Chavez International Airport, Lima, Peru.
- [Jack Charlton - Agent of Reconciliation](https://columbans.ie/jack-charlton-agent-of-reconciliation/) - Jack Charlton was an instrument of understanding and reconciliation in frayed Anglo/Irish relationships, recalls Fr Bobby Gilmore. The appointment of Jack Charlton as manager of the Ireland soccer team in the early 1980s was received with mixed opinion. People were asking what an Englishman had to offer a national team of a country that he
- [New Booklet Honours Columban Martyrs](https://columbans.ie/new-booklet-honouring-columban-martyrs/) - Over a 72-year period, 24 Columban missionaries died violently on mission. Their witness is a reminder of how God works through ordinary people in extraordinary ways. They were often urged to leave dangerous situations, but, as these stories illustrate, they consistently opted to stay with their people and paid the ultimate price for this choice.
- [Returning Irish missionaries and the Irish Church](https://columbans.ie/returning-irish-missionaries-and-the-irish-church/) - Columban Fr Hugh MacMahon has an article in the June 2020 issue of The Furrow titled ‘Finding the Way Back’ which looks at the contribution returning Irish missionaries can play in the Irish Church. Extract: It is hard to know which is the most urgent challenge facing the Church today. Is it celibacy, the
- [Keep Going!](https://columbans.ie/keep-going/) - Columban lay missionary Marea Lyn Almirañez explains why one of her favourite Mandarin phrases is 加油 (jiā yóu). The first character ‘加’ (jiā) means "add" and the second character ‘油’ (yóu) means "oil”. 加油 means "to add oil" or “refuel”. In Taiwan, you will see the sign, ‘加油’ in gasoline stations but 加油 is also
- [World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation](https://columbans.ie/world-day-of-prayer-for-the-care-of-creation/) - Columban missionary Fr Barry Cairns notes that 1st September 2020 has been designated ’World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation’ and highlights the particular challenges he faces in getting close to nature where he lives in Japan. Pope Francis asks us to, “Let our prayer be inspired anew by closeness to nature which
- [History is Made as Social Issues Challenge Politics](https://columbans.ie/history-is-made-as-social-issues-challenge-politics/) - Columban missionary Fr Shay Cullen considers the significance of the protests taking place around the world from Hong Kong to Washington. Something has happened that is really changing the world besides the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic is changing our lifestyles, our economy and medical practices. But a greater social movement is underway as seen in
- [Protest to Progress](https://columbans.ie/protest-to-progress/) - Fr Bobby Gilmore considers the challenge of getting the politically deaf to hear the politically unheard in order to achieve equality before the law. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for justice for justice (Mt 5-6) Protest is the work of hope. Protest at its core is telling the truth in public (Deray McKesson)
- [Bishop Edward Galvin (1882-1956)](https://columbans.ie/bishop-edward-galvin-1882-1956/) - In the week in which we celebrate our Foundation Day, Fr Cyril Lovett recalls the life of Bishop Edward Galvin, co-founder of the Missionary Society of St Columban. Edward Galvin, the eldest of nine children, was born in Newcestown, Co Cork, Ireland. He had his father’s love of music and would play the violin and
- [Columban missionary writes about Covid-19 in Taiwan](https://columbans.ie/report-by-a-columban-missionary-on-covid-19-in-taiwan/) - Fr Salustino Villalobos, a Columban priest from Peru ministering in Taiwan, explains how Covid-19 preventative measures there, such as wearing masks, have helped to tackle the virus and seen infection rates drop. Taiwan is an island southeast of China with a population of about 24 million. Due to its proximity and business links, many Taiwanese
- [The Funeral of Fr Jim Gavigan by Fr Pat Raleigh](https://columbans.ie/the-funeral-of-fr-jim-gavigan-by-fr-pat-raleigh/) - In brilliant sunshine on Thursday 25th June 2020 we bid farewell to Jim Gavigan. Fr Gerry Neylon was the celebrant and he was assisted by Fr Ray Husband, Regional Director. Gerry in his homily touched on the wonderful contribution Jim made over a 58 period in Fiji. He was the longest serving Columban in Fiji.
- [Student recalls “eye-opening” work of Fr Tomás King in Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/student-recalls-eye-opening-work-of-fr-tomas-king-in-pakistan/) - Dáire King is a 16-year-old Transition Year Student from St Jarleth’s College in Tuam. He writes about his recent “eye-opening” visit to Pakistan to see first-hand the work his uncle, Columban missionary, Fr Tomás King does and how it he helps some of the poorest and marginalised there. Part of my life growing up was
- [Fr James Francis Gavigan](https://columbans.ie/fr-james-francis-gavigan/) - James ('Jimmy') Gavigan was born in Ballyshannon, Co Donegal on 9 April 1927. He was educated at the Convent of Mercy and De la Salle Brothers Schools, and at St Eunan’s College, Letterkenny. He came to St Columban’s, Navan in September 1944 and was ordained priest on 21 December 1950. He was a member of
- [Columban Podcast Series on Biodiversity](https://columbans.ie/columban-podcast-series-on-biodiversity/) - The Columban biodiversity working group is producing a podcast mini-series about the threat of biodiversity loss, what Catholic Social Teaching and Columban experience can teach us about this issue, and the work being done to help protect God’s creation. Six episodes will be released each week during the Season of Creation, which starts on September
- [My Back Tooth](https://columbans.ie/my-back-tooth/) - Fr Bobby Gilmore recalls an incident of bullying on the rugby pitch at school which woke him up to the existence of unexpected, mean, aggressive, wanton violence. In 1953 I was in second year at boarding school. It was a school that played rugby. Coming from rural Ireland our sports interests were confined to Gaelic
- [Cemetery Sunday with a difference in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/cemetery-sunday-with-a-difference-in-dalgan/) - Fr Pat Raleigh reports on this year’s Cemetery Sunday Mass in Dalgan which took place online due to the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions. Sadly, due to the Covid-19 restrictions, we were not able to publicly hold our annual Cemetery Sunday celebrations in Dalgan for the relatives and friends of our deceased Columbans. We very much missed
- [Join us online for Cemetery Sunday](https://columbans.ie/join-us-online-for-cemetery-sunday/) - Each year in June, hundreds of people – relatives, supporters, friends and co-workers of the Columbans - attend the annual Cemetery Sunday Mass in Dalgan Park and the blessing of graves. Unfortunately, due to the Covid-19 pandemic and Government guidelines on social distancing, this year’s Cemetery Sunday celebrations will not take place in the same
- [Cemetery Sunday Mass from Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/cemetery-sunday-mass-from-dalgan/) - Each year in June, hundreds of people – relatives, supporters, friends and co-workers of the Columbans – attend the annual Cemetery Sunday Mass in Dalgan Park and the blessing of graves. Unfortunately, due to the Covid-19 pandemic and Government guidelines on social distancing, this year’s Cemetery Sunday celebrations will not take place in the same
- [China: The story of a faith journey](https://columbans.ie/china-the-story-of-a-faith-journey/) - Six years ago, on a summer Sunday morning, as I stood outside the door of Holy Family Church in Wuhan, I was greeted by a young Chinese woman. A conversation began. Lucy Lu had returned to be with her family in Wuhan, having arrived from the US where she was studying. I enquired about her
- [Give us our daily bread](https://columbans.ie/give-us-our-daily-bread/) - Columban missionary Fr Martin Koroiciri writes about a parish initiative where he ministers in Chile helping the vulnerable in the Covid-19 pandemic. When the Coronavirus pandemic started people thought it was just a passing experience and within a few days things would go back to normal. The reality has been very different. After hearing that
- [Ministering in the Covid-19 pandemic in the Philippines](https://columbans.ie/ministering-in-the-covid-19-pandemic-in-the-philippines/) - Columban missionary Fr Kwang-Kyu Peter Dae-chul writes about the challenges and inspiration of ministering during the Covid-19 pandemic in the Philippines. In the Philippines, the number of the Coronavirus patients has dramatically increased since the beginning of March 2020. President Rodrigo Duterte’s Government imposed the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) over the entire Luzon area. However,
- [The Racism that Surrounds Us](https://columbans.ie/the-racism-that-surrounds-us/) - We are seeing once again an upsurge in the vicious 'virus' that has spread to every corner of the world warns Columban missionary Fr Shay Cullen. This time, the 'virus' is that of social, cultural, economic, political, institutional, legal and religious discrimination against people of different skin colour, social status and historical origins. Racism is
- [Columban Journalism Winners Featured in National Newspaper](https://columbans.ie/columban-journalism-winners-featured-in-national-newspaper/) - Today (Thursday 4th June 2020) the Irish News has a wonderful spread on the 2020 winners of the Columban Schools Journalism competition. The newspaper has published in full the winning print article by student Trinity McKeever of Thornhill College, Derry. It also lists the other winners and has published a graphic from the winning video
- [Columban Schools Journalism 2020 Winning Video](https://columbans.ie/columban-schools-journalism-2020-winning-video/) - This is the winning video in the 2020 Columban Schools Journalism Competition in Ireland. It is by Aishling Rochford, a student at Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine /Kenmare Community School. The theme was ‘Tackling Our Throwaway Culture’. Folllow us on Twitter @FarEastMagazine
- [Columbans Call for End to Racism after Murder of George Floyd](https://columbans.ie/columbans-call-for-justice-end-to-racism-and-violence-after-murder-of-george-floyd/) - On 25 May 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old African American father of two daughters, was stopped by police officers in Minneapolis and cruelly pinned to the ground. A police officer’s knee continued to pressure his neck for a period of eight minutes, even as he cried out: “I can’t breathe!” He died shortly after. Only
- [Theology of the Universe as God](https://columbans.ie/theology-of-the-universe-as-god/) - In these strange days, I have been reading and reflecting about the theology of the Universe as God’s body (metaphor) writes Columban Fr Brian Vale. God de­lights in God’s creation all around us, but at the moment large ar­eas of God’s body have the coronavirus and are sick. Our God is tran­scendent, but also
- [Pedalling to Live Eco Farm Update](https://columbans.ie/pedalling-to-live-eco-farm-update/) - Virgie Vidad and Fr Oliver McCrossan provide an update on the Pedalling to Live Eco Farm in the Philippines. The Pedalling to Live project was initiated by Fr Oliver McCrossan and the management of Ozamiz City People’s Bank to uplift the lives of the tricycle drivers and their families in Ozamiz City, Philippines. With the
- [Good News From Wuhan](https://columbans.ie/good-news-from-wuhan/) - Columban missionary, Fr John Boles, explains why Wuhan, now notorious as the probable source of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, signifies Good News for the Columbans. Wuhan! A name now notorious as the probable source of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. But, for Catholics and especially Columbans, Wuhan means GOOD NEWS. It is where the Columban missionary
- [The Three Great Catastrophes Facing Mankind](https://columbans.ie/the-three-great-catastrophes-facing-mankind/) - There are three deadly catastrophic events engulfing the world writes Fr Shay Cullen and we need to respond with a vigorous determination and global unity. None of us can ignore these realities without suffering the dire consequences. Should we do so, we will be less human, less responsible and become more self-centred and even devoid
- [Columban Schools Journalism 2020 Winning Article](https://columbans.ie/columban-schools-journalism-2020-winning-article/) - Tacking Our 'Throwaway Culture' This is the winning article in the 2020 Columban Schools Journalism Competition in Ireland. It is by 16-year-old Trinity McKeever, a student of Thornhill College, Derry. There has been such a focus on the waste from bottles, bags, and packaging, that it is easy to forget about the waste that comes
- [Our Common Home](https://columbans.ie/our-common-home/) - Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si' is five years old this month and captures the social, economic and environmental justice in building and protecting Our Common Home. It details a pathway of hope as we face the plant’s environmental crisis. Watch as Columbans practice the words of the encyclical throughout the world. Support the works of
- [The faith of the people remains strong](https://columbans.ie/the-faith-of-the-people-remains-strong/) - Churches closed on Sundays! No Sunday Mass! It is a shock. Yes, many people had stopped going to Mass for different reasons, but to have the official church telling priests not to have public Masses in their parishes was a remarkable event. Since this new regime came in I have been keeping an eye out
- [COVID-19 linked to the destruction of the natural world](https://columbans.ie/fr-sean-mcdonagh-links-covid-19-and-destruction-of-the-natural-world/) - In an article published in the June/July 2020 issue of the Comboni mission magazine ‘Worldwide’, Fr Sean McDonagh writes about the issue of Covid-19 and biodiversity. The article is titled ‘The Cost of Our Misbehaviour’ and examines the way humans have destroyed much of the natural world and continue to engage in factory farming in
- [Miss Ellen's Weekly Pilgrimage](https://columbans.ie/miss-ellens-weekly-pilgrimage/) - Fr Bobby Gilmore ministered in Jamaica from 1992-99. In 1999, he returned to Ireland and set up the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland. He writes about the significant contribution immigrant remittances make to two economies. A crisis of papers unfixed, two three jobs as a domestic and weathering the cold, the barrel in her
- [Why Religion Survives in China](https://columbans.ie/why-religion-survives-in-china/) - In his blog, Fr Hugh MacMahon of Aitece Ireland ponders the fraught relationship between Communist China and Christianity. Talking recently with some Chinese in their late-thirties, I should not have been surprised to hear that they had no record of their baptism, first communion or confirmation. When they were young, they were baptised by a
- [Covid-19 is adding to Peru's many problems warns Fr Peter Hughes](https://columbans.ie/covid-19-is-adding-to-perus-many-problems-warns-fr-peter-hughes/) - As Peru enters its eighth week of lockdown the general sensation is one of increasing anxiety and fear of the future. The majority of the people now face the stark dilemma of whether it’s best to die of hunger or the virus. The initial expectation of flattening the curve, reducing the number of deaths and
- [Forming Columban Seminarians in Fiji](https://columbans.ie/forming-columban-seminarians-in-fiji/) - Columban missionary Fr Frank Hoare writes about Columban Formation and being a ‘Father’. “I discovered a deeper meaning in the Our Father when I became a father myself,” said the Anglican vicar to me. I had just invited him to attend my first Mass after ordination. I believe he was just sharing something of his
- [Photographic tribute to Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/photographic-tribute-to-dalgan/) - With the grounds of Dalgan Park closed to the public and the offices of the Missionary Society of St Columban and the Far East also closed, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Fr Pat Raleigh has prepared a photographic reflection on the natural beauty of Dalgan. Enjoy! Our office staff are currently not working. Please direct
- [Our Vocation, Our Spirituality](https://columbans.ie/our-vocation-our-spirituality/) - Ahead of World Day of Prayer For Vocations (Sunday 3 May 2020) Columban missionary Fr Denis Carter has written this reflection on how the Christian vocation is a call to live out a particular spirituality. It is a way of life guided and empowered by the Spirit of Jesus Christ. Isaiah 49:1-7 Gal. 1:15-16
- [Fr Shay Cullen on the Coronavirus threat to jailed children in the Philippines](https://columbans.ie/fr-shay-cullen-on-the-coronavirus-threat-to-jailed-children-in-the-philippines/) - Columban missionary Fr Shay Cullen, President and Founder of the Preda Foundation, appeals for the release of the children jailed in the Metro Manila and Central Luzon detention centres who are in danger of contracting the Coronavirus. The infection is sweeping through the jail system. https://youtu.be/wc9GRNu_Juo If you would like to support the work of
- [Farewell to Pakistan](https://columbans.ie/farewell-to-pakistan/) - Having spent almost five weeks in isolation in the Joti Catechetical Centre in Mirpurkhas in Pakistan, Fr Pat Raleigh was delighted in the final week of his stay to be able to travel to Karachi ahead of his return journey to Dalgan. I am indebted to Fr Tomás King for driving the three-and-a-half-hour journey. The
- ['Thank you' from Columban special needs school in Peru](https://columbans.ie/thank-you-from-columban-special-needs-school-in-peru/) - Dear Friends and Benefactors, Over recent months I have been receiving donations from and through you for small projects I have been funding in Lima, Peru. I've been spending the majority of this money on improvement schemes within our school for special needs children, Colegio Manuel Duato (presided over by fellow Columban, Fr Ed O'Connell.
- [Columban Offices and Dalgan Park Closed](https://columbans.ie/columban-offices-and-dalgan-park-closed/) - Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the offices of the Missionary Society of St Columban in Dalgan Park and the Far East are closed until further notice. Our office staff are currently not working. Please direct any inquiries to info@columbans.ie and when our office staff are able to return to work, they will respond. The grounds
- [China: Easter celebrations in homes](https://columbans.ie/china-easter-celebrations-in-homes/) - While Covid-19 is now raging in other parts of the world, the virus has subsided in China. In Wuhan, where it started, restrictions are very slowly being lifted. A Catholic based in the city, who has been living under lockdown since February, has written this reflection for Independent Catholic News. Early last week I received
- [Easter in Pakistan amid the COVID-19 pandemic](https://columbans.ie/easter-in-pakistan-amid-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - Fr Pat Raleigh spent Easter in Pakistan. He writes from Mirpurkhas about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and reflects on Holy Saturday as a time to sit quietly with the paradoxes of life. It is Holy Saturday here in Pakistan. It is very warm. In a few hours we will have the celebration of
- [Love in the Time of COVID-19](https://columbans.ie/love-in-the-time-of-covid-19/) - Columban missionary Fr Andrei Paz writes about the impact of COVID-19 in the Philippines and how he and his friends have reached out to some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged. Towards the middle of March, when the entire island of Luzon in the Philippines was placed in quarantine to control the spread of COVID-19,
- [The Light of Hope](https://columbans.ie/the-light-of-hope/) - A Celebration of Light took place at St Columban’s Dalgan Park, Navan on Holy Saturday at 9pm. It was part of a nationwide act of solidarity in support of all frontline staff and those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. https://youtu.be/dGudMJaYas8
- [Living the Passion during the Covid-19 pandemic](https://columbans.ie/living-the-passion-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/) - Fr Tom O’Reilly reflects on the Covid-19 pandemic and asks where can we find energy and meaning to sustain us in these difficult times? As we grapple with the Covid-19 pandemic, many are coping with the death of loved ones, economic hardships, and great uncertainty about the future. We wonder will our lives ever get
- [Stations of the Cross - an Easter Presentation](https://columbans.ie/stations-of-the-cross-an-easter-presentation/) - This Easter Power Point Presentation was compiled by Jo Bell. She and her husband Kevin worked as Columban Lay Missionaries in Korea in the 1970s. The statues form scenes depicting the life of Jesus, which are scattered around the Hill of Grace Sanctuary in Jeju Island, Korea. They were commissioned by the late Fr PJ
- [An Easter Message to Columban Companions, Friends and Supporters](https://columbans.ie/an-easter-message-to-columban-companions-friends-and-supporters/) - An Easter Message from Fr Tim Mulroy, International Leader of the Missionary Society of St Columban and from Vida Hequilan, the Central Coordinator of Columban Lay Missionaries. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dY8_R1pE_A4&feature=youtu.be
- [The Upper Room: A Holy Week and Easter Reflection](https://columbans.ie/the-upper-room-a-holy-week-and-easter-reflection/) - Each year, the celebration of Holy Week and Easter has a unique significance. Each year, the commemoration of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus intertwines with our life experience in a different way, drawing us more deeply into this great mystery of our faith while moulding us into women and men who resemble Jesus.
- [China: "We are all sisters and brothers"](https://columbans.ie/china-we-are-all-sisters-and-brothers/) - This is the tenth exclusive ICN report from a Catholic - who lives in Wuhan and prefers to remain anonymous - giving a first-hand account of the situation in the Chinese city which was the original centre of the Coronovirus pandemic. The Archdiocese of Dublin encourages a unique form of ongoing education for its priests
- [A Healthy Distance by Fr Brian Vale](https://columbans.ie/a-healthy-distance-by-fr-brian-vale/) - The Japanese Catholic community in Hong Kong celebrated the Fifth Sunday of Lent with a Eucharist by teleconference. Church gatherings had been cancelled for over two months in Hong Kong because of the coronavirus pandemic forcing a restriction on all large gatherings, so three of us on the Columban General Council here in Hong Kong
- [Grounds in Dalgan closed to the public amid Covid-19 pandemic](https://columbans.ie/grounds-in-dalgan-closed-to-the-public-amid-covid-19-pandemic/) - The grounds of Dalgan Park have been closed to the public as part of the Columban Fathers’ efforts to contain the spread of the Covid-19 virus. The scenic grounds are a popular amenity used by the public all the year around. However, ahead of the weekend, the Regional Director in Ireland, Fr Ray Husband, decided
- [China: Humility to discover God in a new way](https://columbans.ie/china-humility-to-discover-god-in-a-new-way/) - This is the ninth exclusive ICN report from a Catholic, who lives in Wuhan and prefers to remain anonymous, giving a first-hand account of the situation in the city at the centre of the Coronovirus pandemic. On Wednesday morning of last week, I had an unexpected visitor to my apartment in Wuhan. During these weeks
- [Columban Prayers for the Coronavirus Pandemic](https://columbans.ie/columban-prayers-for-the-coronavirus-pandemic/) - These prayers were written for the COVID-19 pandemic by Columban priests in the United States and Ireland. With thanks to https://columban.org/ Prayer to St Columban in the face of the Coronavirus St Columban of Mt Leinster, Bangor, Luxeuil, Bregenz and Bobbio, your name rings out across the world. Come to our aid and rise up
- [Columbans in Ireland take part in Act of Consecration](https://columbans.ie/columbans-in-ireland-take-part-in-act-of-consecration/) - On the Feast of the Annunciation, 25 March, the Columban community at Dalgan Park joined the Primate of All Ireland, Archbishop Eamon Martin, along with bishops, priests and the faithful in consecrating the people of Ireland to the Immaculate Heart of Mary for strength and protection from the coronavirus, Covid-19. The Act of Consecration, Archbishop
- [Prayer for the Covid-19 pandemic by Columban Fr John Comiskey](https://columbans.ie/prayer-for-the-covid-19-pandemic-by-columban-fr-john-comiskey/) - Dear Lord, Jesus brought healing during his ministry on earth. He healed the sick and brought the dead to life. By his own death and resurrection he brings the promise, hope and means of healing to us all. Now we need his healing more than ever. We need not only the healing from physical illness
- [China: Trust in God during 'two months of storms'](https://columbans.ie/china-trust-in-god-during-two-months-of-storms/) - This is the eighth exclusive ICN report from a Catholic - who lives in Wuhan and prefers to remain anonymous - giving a first-hand account of the situation in the city at the centre of the Coronovirus infection. This morning I spoke on the phone with a Catholic friend who was born in the small
- [Columbans Schools Journalism 2020 Winners Announced](https://columbans.ie/columbans-schools-journalism-2020-winners-announced/) - A student from Thornhill College, Derry, Trinity McKeever, has won this year’s Columban Schools Journalism Competition print category while a student from Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine /Kenmare Community School, Aishling Rochford, has won the video category. The Columbans invited students to write an article or produce a short video on the topic of ‘Tackling our Throwaway
- [Fr Peter Andrew Kenny](https://columbans.ie/fr-peter-andrew-kenny/) - Peter Kenny was born in Ballydangan, Athlone, Co Roscommon on 13 July 1933. He was educated at Camcloom NS and St Joseph’s College, Garbally, Ballinasloe. He came to St Columban’s College, Dalgan Park, Navan in 1952, and was ordained priest on 22 December 1958. After ordination he was sent for post-graduate studies in Canon Law
- [The Invisible Enemy](https://columbans.ie/the-invisible-enemy/) - Fr Shay Cullen writes about the impact of Covid-19 and asks if some of the measures taken to counter the spread of this virus could be applied to efforts to combat child trafficking and child sexual abuse. Think about it. It is amazing that one tiny, invisible smart virus, a product of evolutionary processes, still
- [Wuhan: Cherry blossom reminds us that life is fragile](https://columbans.ie/wuhan-cherry-blossom-reminds-us-that-life-is-fragile/) - A catholic in Wuhan writes for ICN about the situation in the city at the centre of the Covid-19 Coronovirus infection. In September 1996, at the parish church in Hiratsuka, Japan, I met Kintaro Koura-san for the first time. At that time he was 79 years of age, a fit man who cycled three miles
- [Fr Sean to give keynote address to Conference of Religious](https://columbans.ie/fr-sean-to-give-keynote-address-to-conference-of-religious/) - Renowned eco-theologian and Columban missionary Fr Sean McDonagh will be the keynote speaker at this weekend’s Laudato Si reflection day hosted by the Conference of Religious of England and Wales in London. The day aims to help Religious mobilise so as to lend their prophetic voice to the climate crisis facing our common home. It
- ["Redempta shared so beautifully and generously her many gifts"](https://columbans.ie/redempta-shared-so-beautifully-and-generously-her-many-gifts-with-so-many/) - From Mirpurkhas in Pakistan, Fr Pat Raleigh pays tribute to Columban missionary Sr Redempta Twomey, Assistant Editor of the Far East magazine, who died on 27th February 2020. Just as I was about to have lunch a few hours ago with Tomás King, he told me the sad news of the death of Sr Redempta
- [Conference in Dalgan on SS Finian, Colmcille and Columbanus](https://columbans.ie/conference-in-dalgan-on-ss-finian-colmcille-and-columbanus/) - A one-day conference will take place on 28th March 2020 in Dalgan Park on the relevance of Saints Finian, Colmcille and Columbanus for Ireland and Europe today. Organised by the Association Friends of St Columbanus and the Columban Ecological Institute, the conference celebrates the 1,500th anniversary of the founding of the monastery in Clonard, Co
- [Biodiversity Day in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/biodiversity-day-in-dalgan/) - Ben Malone from the National Biodiversity Centre will facilitate the Columban Ecological Institute's first workshop of 2020. He will guide the group through the concept of citizen science and will also help the group to identify and record the species which they find during their Dalgan field trip. Biodiversity Day in Dalgan with Ben Malone
- [Dalgan screening of new documentary on the homeless crisis](https://columbans.ie/dalgan-screening-of-documentary-on-homeless-crisis/) - Columban documentary maker, Fr Malachy Smyth, held a special screening of his latest work with Paul Harney of 'Thats That' production company on the homeless and housing crisis in Ireland at Dalgan Park on Thursday. Afterwards the showing of 'To Wish for a Home', Fr Malachy told Columbans.ie that the evening had incorporated a mix
- ['To Wish for a Home'](https://columbans.ie/to-wish-for-a-home/) - A new documentary on the homeless and housing crisis in Ireland by Columban Fr Malachy Smyth and Paul Harney of ‘Thats That’ production company. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASMuNMcK9F8&fbclid=IwAR2DqQXRNh8vm8VTrk4i6k1nDIOXPFHj8XCa9FilkhDuUtvs9GbofxmgD5M
- [Fr Pat returns to Pakistan to research 40 years of Columban mission](https://columbans.ie/fr-pat-returns-to-pakistan-to-research-40-years-of-columban-mission/) - Fr Pat Raleigh writes about his return visit to Pakistan where he is researching the history of Columban mission in that country from 1979 until today. On Tuesday, 11th February, I left Dalgan to spend six weeks in Pakistan. It was bitterly cold and snowing. I wasn't sorry leaving the cold weather for a while.
- [Fr Joseph Flanagan](https://columbans.ie/fr-joseph-flanagan/) - Fr Joe was born in Ballinasloe, Co Galway on 25 April 1936 and he received all his early education there. He attended the Convent school and St Grellan’s and then went to St Joseph’s Garbally for secondary level. He joined the Columbans in Dalgan in 1955 and was ordained there in 1961. Assigned to Korea
- [Despite Storm Ciara Tu B'Shvat goes ahead in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/despite-storm-ciara-tu-bshvat-goes-ahead-in-dalgan/) - Fr Pat Raleigh reports on Tu B'Shvat, the Jewish New Year of the Trees ceremony, at Dalgan. Even the inclement weather caused by Storm Ciara did not deter a large crowd from travelling to Dalgan on Sunday afternoon for an interfaith celebration of Tu B'Shavat, the Jewish New Year of the Trees. It was organised
- [Jewish New Year of the Trees to be marked in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/jewish-new-year-of-the-trees-to-be-marked-in-dalgan/) - It’s the birthday of trees! On Sunday, members of Dublin City Interfaith Forum will gather in Dalgan Park for a tree planting ceremony to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Tu B'Shvat. Tu B'Shvat is occurs on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat, which is usually in January or February. It is also
- [Fr Oliver visits organic agricultural programme he founded](https://columbans.ie/fr-oliver-visits-organic-agricultural-programme-he-founded/) - Irish Columban Fr Oliver McCrossan set up the Pedalling to Live project in the Philippines and the Green Shelter Inc, which runs an organic agricultural programme which helps to generate money for tricycle drivers in Ozamiz City. Fr Oliver recently returned after two months in the Philippines during which he had time to visit the
- [A Spring Celebration](https://columbans.ie/a-spring-celebration/) - This Sunday our Music in Dalgan series will host ‘A Spring Celebration: Vox Femina’ concert with the Schola Hiberniae under director Giovanna Feeley. The concert on Sunday 2nd February will present an afternoon of chant, polyphony and Irish traditional music. It begins at 3pm and takes place in the College Chapel in Dalgan Park. Tickets €15 (students
- [2020 Dalgan Summer School](https://columbans.ie/2020-dalgan-summer-school/) - Dalgan Summer School will take place this year from 19 July to 23 July 2020 and will be led by Dr John Feehan author of 'God in a five-pointed star; A spiritual philosophy of Nature'. Twice in Laudato Si’ Pope Francis refers to the created world as the ‘other’ book of revelation: the “magnificent book
- [Fr Francis (Frank) Mannion](https://columbans.ie/fr-francis-frank-mannion/) - Fr Frank Mannion was born at Cummer, Corofin, Co Galway on 15 October 1927. Educated at Cummer NS and St Jarlath’s Collegle, Tuam, he came to Dalgan in 1946 and was ordained priest on 21st December 1952. Appointed to Korea in 1953, after language studies he was first assigned to Kang Neung in Chunchon Diocese
- [Fr Shay Cullen on the importance of protecting children online](https://columbans.ie/fr-shay-cullen-writes-about-the-importance-of-protecting-children-online/) - There is a powerful force for good or evil that is present everywhere. You can’t see it, you can’t feel or hear it, yet it is in your home, in the school, the office and almost everywhere. It is the wi-fi signal that connects anybody and everybody to the internet and to each other by
- [An appreciation of Columban missionary Sr Marie Galvin](https://columbans.ie/an-appreciation-of-columban-missionary-sr-marie-galvin/) - On the journey of life, we are blessed to meet people who really influence us. We are able to genuinely say that they have made a difference. One such person for me was Columban Sister, Marie Galvin, whom we laid to rest on Monday 20th January 2020 at the Sisters’ cemetery in Magheramore, Co Wicklow
- [Clerical celibacy debate: When Fr Bobby wrote to Pope Francis](https://columbans.ie/clerical-celibacy-debate-when-fr-bobby-wrote-to-pope-francis/) - In light of the recent tension over Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s comments on clerical celibacy and as Pope Francis prepares to publish his response to the recommendation on ordaining married men made at the Synod on the Amazon, Fr Bobby Gilmore has given us a copy of his 2014 letter to Pope Francis. Dear Pope
- [Newstalk to broadcast Fr Malachy’s documentary on homelessness](https://columbans.ie/newstalk-to-broadcast-fr-malachys-documentary-on-homelessness/) - A radio documentary on homelessness which Fr Malachy Smyth co-produced will be broadcast on Newstalk radio this weekend and again next weekend. ‘Bricks and Mortar’ is a collaboration between Fr Malachy and Brian Kenny. The making of the programme was supported by a grant from the Missionary Society of St Columban. It looks at the
- [Hazel trees planted in Dalgan ecological project](https://columbans.ie/hazel-trees-planted-in-dalgan-ecological-project/) - Around 25 Columbans, co-workers, staff and the farm manager, gathered on Thursday 19th December at the entrance to the community cemetery in Dalgan for a tree planting ceremony reports Fr Pat Raleigh. It was an ecological project spearheaded by Elizabeth McArdle, Sean McDonagh, Ger Clarke, Derry Healy and others. 100 Hazel Christmas trees had been
- [“Rise Up and Walk!”](https://columbans.ie/rise-up-and-walk/) - Columban missionary Fr John Boles, SSC draws on the Gospel account of a miracle in Luke 5.23 to show how the generosity of Columban benefactors is having an impact on the lives of the disabled in Peru. In the Gospel we hear how Jesus performed a miracle by saying to the paralysed man, “Rise up
- [Fr Shay Cullen offers some challenging New Year's thoughts](https://columbans.ie/fr-shay-cullen-offers-some-challenging-thoughts-for-the-new-year/) - Columban missionary Fr Shay Cullen founded the PREDA Foundation in the Philippines in 1974 to promote and protect the dignity and the human rights of the Filipino people, especially of women and sexually-exploited and abused children. There will be much rejoicing and merriment at the arrival of the New Year because people see it as
- [Schools Journalism Competition: Tackling our Throwaway Culture](https://columbans.ie/schools-journalism-competition-tackling-our-throwaway-culture/) - Berlind Fellermeier, a Columban Faith in Action Volunteer based in Birmingham, writes for Independent Catholic News about the theme of this year's schools journalism competition. For the past few years the Missionary Society of St Columban has run a Schools Journalism Competition in Ireland and in Britain. It has encouraged students between the ages of
- [Significant anniversaries of Columban martyrs in 2020](https://columbans.ie/significant-anniversaries-of-columban-martyrs-in-2020/) - In the January/February 2020 Editorial of the Far East magazine, Fr Raymond Husband, Regional Director of the Columbans in Ireland, highlights some significant anniversaries this year of Columban missionaries who gave their lives for the Gospel and love of the people they were called to serve. Each New Year brings its own opportunities and reasons
- [The Real Meaning of Christmas](https://columbans.ie/the-real-meaning-of-christmas/) - Christmas is upon us, writes Columban missionary, Fr Shay Cullen. It is a celebration of the birth of the most charismatic and influential human being to walk the earth. We should learn what and why we celebrate the birthday of this remarkable person who has inspired millions of people in the past to live lives
- [Carol Service in Dalgan focuses on 'Caring for Creation'](https://columbans.ie/carol-service-in-dalgan-focuses-on-caring-for-creation/) - The theme of this year’s Carol Service in Dalgan on Friday 13th December was 'Caring for God's Creation' writes Fr Pat Raleigh. The service was led by the Kilmessan Church Choir and the Treble Children's Choir also from Kilmessan with Choir Director Linda Rooney Smith and Conductor Erika Goggins. In the adult choir there are
- [Eco theologian disappointed by COP25](https://columbans.ie/eco-theologian-disappointed-by-cop25/) - COP25, the Climate summit in Madrid, concluded in frustration as the major problems were kicked down the road writes Fr Sean McDonagh, SSC Expectations for COP25 in Madrid where high for several reasons. The slogan for that COP was ‘Time for Action’. Furthermore, the recent report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) carried
- [Impact of Irish climate strikes discussed at Dalgan conference](https://columbans.ie/impact-of-irish-climate-strikes-discussed-at-dalgan-conference/) - Today Friday 6th December 2019 marks the first anniversary of the launch of the Fridays for Future climate strike in Ireland. At a conference last weekend in Dalgan Park, hosted by the Columban Ecological Institute on the topic ‘Climate Change: Where Are We Now?’, Dr Lorna Gold recalled how she had been on her way
- [First Columban ordination for the new Region of Oceania](https://columbans.ie/first-columban-ordination-for-the-new-region-of-oceania/) - In the presence of fellow Columbans, family and friends, Fr Teakare Betero SSC was ordained a Columban priest by Archbishop Peter Loy Chong of Suva, Fiji on 30th of November 2019. Fr Betero's mother Kaitinano Tauakitari was also present. Fr Betero's father passed away while he was still in primary school. He has six brothers
- [Report by Fr Pat Raleigh on Fr Michael Sinnott's Funeral](https://columbans.ie/report-by-fr-pat-raleigh-on-fr-michael-sinnotts-funeral/) - Fr Rat Raleigh recalls Fr Michael Sinnott as “A gentle and humble Columban Missionary who endeared himself to the poor and those who didn't have a voice.” He reports on Fr Michael’s funeral which took place in Dalgan, on Wednesday 27th November 2019. The Dalgan Chapel was full for Michael's funeral Mass. Many people had
- [Fr Peter Dong leads celebration for Feast of St Columban](https://columbans.ie/fr-peter-dong-leads-celebration-for-feast-of-st-columban/) - This year’s liturgical celebration for the Feast of St Columban in the Irish Region was led by Fr Peter Dong, the first Columban Father from mainland China and one of the newest members of the Society. Fr Peter was ordained to the priesthood in China last 25 January 2019, with two other priests and two
- [Fr Michael Sinnott](https://columbans.ie/fr-michael-sinnott/) - Michael (‘Mal’) was born in Clonard, Wexford on 17 December 1929 and educated in the CBS and in St Peter’s, Wexford. He joined the Columbans in Navan in 1948. Following his ordination in December 1954 he finished postgraduate studies in Rome before being appointed to the Philippines in 1957. Michael’s first term in the Philippines
- [New appointments for Fiji’s LMs](https://columbans.ie/new-appointments-for-fijis-lms/) - We would like to express our warmest congratulations to the Region of Fiji’s Joint Sending Orientation Program candidates. Chee Tzu Ting Sophia, Chuah Hui Ling, Latai Tokelau Muller and Mere-ani Nailevu for having completed their mid-orientation assessments and being accepted for mission. The Society Leader, Fr Tim Mulroy had formally assigned Latai and Mereani to
- [Kyungja Lee, is a Columban Lay Missionary from Korea. She gave this talk recently at Kentstown parish in Co Meath, explaining how she was inspired to find out about life as a lay missionary and join the Columban family](https://columbans.ie/kyungja-lee-is-a-columban-lay-missionary-from-korea-she-gave-this-talk-recently-at-kentstown-parish-in-co-meath-explaining-how-she-was-inspired-to-find-out-about-life-as-a-lay-missionary-and-join-t/) - I grew up in a family which followed the rules of Confucianism. The teachings of Confucius emphasise the importance of the family /and social harmony. So, I obeyed and supported my parents and respected the elderly. When I was young, my family was not rich, so my ambition was to have job to support my
- [Join our ‘Come and See’ Weekend in February](https://columbans.ie/join-our-come-and-see-weekend-in-february/) - Columban Lay Missionaries in Ireland are holding a ‘Come and See’ gathering on the first weekend in February. This is an opportunity to meet others who are thinking about and looking for information on taking part in mission overseas. Columban Lay Missionaries will share information about their life, their experiences, who they are and the
- [St Columban's Day: Journey to Bobbio](https://columbans.ie/st-columbans-day-journey-to-bobbio/) - Columban missionary Sr Ann Gray recalls some important insights she gleaned on her recent pilgrimage to Bobbio, where the great missionary St Columban died in November 615AD. A few months ago, I was fortunate to make my second pilgrimage to Bobbio, the place in Italy where St Columban established his last monastery; it was also
- [Now is the time for a stronger role for women in the Church](https://columbans.ie/now-is-the-time-for-a-stronger-role-for-women-in-the-church/) - In the fourteenth of our series of articles on the Amazon Synod, Sr Birgit Weiler, MMS looks at the debate about women's role in the Church which emerged during the synod. Sr Birgit Weiler is a German Medical Mission Sister and theologian, who has worked with REPAM and participated as one of the experts in
- [Fr Hugh MacMahon reflects on events in Hong Kong](https://columbans.ie/fr-hugh-macmahon-reflects-on-events-in-hong-kong/) - I am just back from Hong Kong where the disturbances (or riots) are still in full swing at weekends. Shops and hotels were complaining about fewer tourists but locals and visitors had no trouble getting around and enjoying the cooler weather, though it was still a hot 28 degrees. The city itself has not changed
- [Columban seminarian Jerry Lohera](https://columbans.ie/columban-seminarian-jerry-lohera-talks-about-his-fma-in-pakistan/) - Jerry Lohera is a Filipino. He joined the Columban formation programme in 2012 and has just completed his two-year First Mission Assignment (FMA) in Pakistan. The experience was both "enriching" and "affirming" and has given him a different lens on how he relates with people and God. https://youtu.be/_K6o1ccm7j8
- [The Martyrs and the Pact of the Catacombs for Our Common Home](https://columbans.ie/the-martyrs-and-the-pact-of-the-catacombs-for-our-common-home/) - Director of the Columban Centre for Advocacy and Outreach in Washington, Scott Wright, writes about one of the most symbolic moments during the recent Amazonia Synod. Early Sunday morning, on 20 October 2019, 40 bishops and a hundred or more observers and participants in the Synod on the Amazon took time away from their meetings
- [Recent deaths in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/recent-deaths-in-dalgan/) - At the Removal Prayer Service for Columban missionary Fr David Wall on Monday 28th October 2019, Fr Pat Raleigh gave the following address. The recent months here in Dalgan, have not been easy with so many deaths, three in the past week alone, Frank Mannion, Colm Murphy and now David. Irrespective of age, when somebody
- [Death of Fr Joseph Yu Kehang: link with first Columban mission in Hanyang](https://columbans.ie/death-of-fr-joseph-yu-kehang-link-with-1st-columban-mission-in-hanyang/) - Columban Fr Jim Mulroney pays tribute to Fr Joseph Yu Kehang who died in Melbourne, Australia on 19 October and was one of the last living links with the first Columban mission in the diocese of Hanyang in China. There was a bubbling energy among the Yu family at a memorial Mass celebrated in the
- [Fr David Francis Wall](https://columbans.ie/fr-david-francis-wall/) - Fr David (Davy) Wall was born in Dromcollogher, Co Limerick on 1 April 1927. He was educated at Dromcollogher NS, St Mary’s Secondary School, Dromcollogher, and St Munchin’s College, Limerick. He arrived at St Columban’s College, Navan in September 1944 and was ordained priest on 21 December 1950. He was appointed initially to post-graduate studies
- ["We are living through a very complex situation in Chile"](https://columbans.ie/we-are-living-a-very-complex-situation-in-chile/) - Columban missionary Fr Michael Hoban provides this update on the situation in Chile. We are living through a very complex situation in Chile and it is not easy to know what is really happening. All the members of the Region are safe. There are all kinds of reports, rumours, and conspiracy theories floating around and
- [Update from Fr Peter Hughes on the Synod on the Amazon](https://columbans.ie/update-from-fr-peter-hughes-from-the-synod-on-the-amazon/) - In the final week of the Synod on the Amazon, Columban missionary Fr Peter Hughes, who is a participant at the Rome gathering, provided this update on the progress of discussions. Greetings from Rome and a note beginning the final week of this extraordinary event. The perennial question arises, are we on the threshold of some
- [Fr Colm Seamus Murphy](https://columbans.ie/fr-colm-seamus-murphy/) - Fr Colm Murphy was born on 28 December 1930 in Sandymount, Dublin. He was educated at Dublin’s Model National School and at Belvedere College. He came to Dalgan in 1948 and was ordained a priest on 21 December 1954. After ordination he was appointed to study journalism in Marquette University, Milwaukee. In 1958, he was
- [New book 'The Irish and China' contains chapter by Fr Hugh MacMahon](https://columbans.ie/new-book-the-irish-and-china-contains-chapter-by-fr-hugh-macmahon/) - A new book titled ‘The Irish and China’, which contains a chapter by Columban Fr Hugh MacMahon, was launched in Trinity College, Dublin last week. Published by New Island Books, it is edited by Professor Jerusha McCormack, Visiting Academic at the Asian Studies Centre at Trinity College, Dublin and President Michael D. Higgins has written
- [Columbans at the Amazon Synod in Rome](https://columbans.ie/columbans-at-the-amazon-synod-in-rome/) - Amy Echeverria, Central JPIC Co-ordinator for the Missionary Society of St Columban is in Rome, where the Synod on the Amazon is taking place. She has sent this update: Hope and joy-filled greetings from Rome! At this stage, the Synod on the Amazon is in deep dialogue among its participants, the world and God. Both
- [Conference on Climate Change in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/conference-on-climate-change-in-dalgan/) - The Columban Ecological Institute is hosting a conference on climate change in Dalgan in November. A number of high profile speakers will address the topic ‘Climate Change: Where Are We Now?’. The conference takes place on Saturday 30th November from 9.30am – 3.30pm. The conference programme is as follows: 9.15am - 9.30am Registration 9.30am
- [The Irish News to publish 2020 winner of Columban journalism competition](https://columbans.ie/the-irish-news-to-publish-2020-winner-of-columban-journalism-competition/) - The Columbans have launched their 2020 Schools Journalism Competition which addresses the challenge of the ‘throwaway society’ and the great news is that the winner will be published in the national daily, The Irish News. This is the third year that the competition has been run and the title for 2020 is: ‘Tackling our Throwaway
- [Columbans Pray in Solidarity with Pan Amazonian Synod](https://columbans.ie/columban-missionaries-pray-in-solidarity-with-the-pan-amazonian-synod/) - HONG KONG, 3 October 2019 Columban missionaries around the world will be praying for the success of the Pan Amazonian Synod. Our baptismal commitment to care for planet earth - our common home, and dialogue with people of other faith traditions and spiritual practices, also draws us into solidarity with the synodal process. Present in
- [Primate opens Extraordinary Mission Month with tribute to the Columbans](https://columbans.ie/primate-opens-extraordinary-mission-month-with-tribute-to-columbans/) - Opening the Irish Church’s Extraordinary Month of Mission in Maynooth on Tuesday evening, the Primate of All Ireland, Archbishop Eamon Martin paid tribute to the Columbans and their patron St Columbanus. Archbishop Martin led the bishops in a concelebrated Mass in St Patrick’s College, Maynooth to mark the opening of the month of mission to
- [Fr Michael Scully](https://columbans.ie/fr-michael-scully/) - Michael was born on 13 May 1929 in Ardfield, Clonakilty, Co Cork. Educated at Ardfield NS, St Mary’s Secondary School, Clonakilty and St Finbarr’s College, Farrenferris, Cork, he came to Dalgan in 1948. He spent his first three years of theological studies as an exchange student at St Columban’s, Nebraska, USA and St Columban’s, Milton,
- [Fr Patrick Aloysius O’Conor](https://columbans.ie/fr-patrick-aloysius-oconor/) - Fr Patrick (‘Pat’) O’Conor was born on 14 January 1935 in Wexford. He was educated at Christ the King NS, Cork, St Nessan’s, and CBS Sullivan’s Quay, Cork. He came to Dalgan in 1952 and was ordained priest on 21 December 1958. He was assigned to Korea and spent his first term in the Vicariate
- [The Challenges of Militarism](https://columbans.ie/the-challenges-of-militarism/) - Irish Columban, Fr Patrick Cunningham, who is based in South Korea, explains how activities related to military spending impact on the environment and on the well-being of vulnerable communities living near sensitive locations and sitting on precious resources. The military industrial complex and the fossil fuel industries are connected to one another. In relation to
- [Columbans Enjoy Measc Festival of Culture and Faiths](https://columbans.ie/columbans-enjoy-measc-festival-of-culture-and-faiths/) - Columban co-workers Michael O’Sullivan and Claire Carey have expressed their delight with the success of this year’s Festival of Culture and Faiths which was held in a Dublin public park recently. The Measc festival is hosted Dublin City Interfaith Forum and Dublin City Council and this year it took place at Herbert Park in Dublin
- [Fr James Kieran Heneghan](https://columbans.ie/fr-james-kieran-heneghan/) - Fr Kieran Heneghan was born on 9 September 1924 in Knock, Claremorris, Co Mayo. He was educated at Knock NS, Casla NS and St Jarlath’s College, Tuam. He came to Dalgan in 1942 and was ordained priest on 21 December 1948. Kieran was appointed to the Philippines where he would serve during the following 29

## Pages

- [Home](https://columbans.ie/) - We are the Columban Missionaries in Ireland Our mission is to help people become fully human, to help establish a world of peace with justice, and to care for creation in solidarity with the poor.
- [Cards](https://columbans.ie/cards/) - St Patrick’s DaySelect options EasterSelect options AnniversarySelect options WeddingSelect options ExamsSelect options New Baby (Boy)Select options New Baby (Girl)Select options Father’s DaySelect options Mother’s DaySelect options ConfirmationSelect options ChristeningSelect options Communion (Boy)Select options Communion (Girl)Select options Best wishesSelect options A Gift for YouSelect options Special OccasionSelect options CongratulationsSelect options Get Well Soon (Sofa)Select options Get
- [Irish Mission League](https://columbans.ie/irish-mission-league/) - The Irish Mission League Sharing and Supporting The Irish Mission League (IML) is one of the oldest support networks for missionaries in the country. For over 100 years, members have been providing spiritual and financial support to Columban Missionaries in the fifteen countries around the world in which we work. As a member of the
- [Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/dalgan/) - Situated three miles south of Navan on five acres of parklands and woods, Dalgan Park is the home of the Missionary Society of St Columban in Ireland. The college was built as a seminary in 1938 with the first students arriving in 1941. The college takes its name from the St Columban’sCollege, Dalgan Park, Shrule,
- [Subscribe to our publications](https://columbans.ie/subscribe-to-our-publications/) - The Far East is the official magazine of the Columban Missionaries in Ireland. It has been published continuously since 1918. The Far East can help you better understand other cultures and religions, as well as the effects global economics and environmental degradation have on poor and marginalised communities around the world. It does this by
- [Join Us](https://columbans.ie/participate/join-us/) - Vocational Discernment Vocation is a Latin word meaning "call." God is calling each and every one to live out our lives fully as human beings, to become the man or woman he made us to be according to our own unique individuality. Discernment is another way to say discovery, so vocational discernment is about discovering
- [Far East Magazine](https://columbans.ie/far-east-magazine/) - Issue – July/August 2026 Far East Magazine Yearly SubscriptionFrom: € 10.00 / year The Far East is the official magazine of the Columban Missionaries in Ireland. It has been published continuously since 1918. It is published seven times a year in digital and print formats, and provides readers with stories of uplift, joy and challenge. Print
- [Publications by Fr Malachy Hanratty](https://columbans.ie/spirituality/publications-by-fr-malachy-hanratty/) - Discoveries in Prayer Vol I & II “But where does love come from?” a musing person might exclaim as in this needy, self-centred, contending world he or she sees many examples of self-sacrificing generosity and commitment. The following idea might help. The Creator puts in everyone’s heart two seeds: the first a yearning to be
- [The Synodal Path](https://columbans.ie/resources/the-synodal-path/) - Regional Director of the Columbans in Ireland, Fr Raymond Husband, writes about the significance of synodality for the Church. According to the Venezuelan theologian Rafael Luciani, “Synodality is an invitation to foster processes of conversion as we listen to one another and larger society while reading the signs of the times together.” A synodal perspective
- [Donate](https://columbans.ie/donate/) - Your Donation Will Make a Difference Please give a donation to the Missionary Society of St Columban and help us continue God's mission as we work in solidarity with the poor living on the margins. Help us: Feed the hungry by helping them find ways to feed themselves Care for the sick who cannot afford
- [Meet a Columban priest](https://columbans.ie/about-us/meet-the-columbans/meet-some-of-our-columban-priests/) - Fr Dan Troy Fr Raymond Husband
- [RIP](https://columbans.ie/rip/) - For those Columban Fathers whose death occurred before the obituaries started being posted online (2018) please contact us via the contact form. Show the formJul20262Fr Cornelius (‘Con’) MurphyCornelius Patrick (‘Con’) Murphy was born on 3rd April 1936 in Kilmurry, Co Cork. He was educated at Kilbonane NS, and St Finbarr’s College, Farrenferris, Cork. He entered
- [Columban Martyrs](https://columbans.ie/about-us/columban-martyrs/) - A total of 24 Columban missionaries lost their lives while spreading the Gospel in various mission countries around the world (China, Korea, Myanmar, Philippines and Peru). They believed in something more than self and gave their lives in the same fashion. They are: TIM LEONARDKilled 17 July 1929 by Chinese Communist-bandits in Nancheng diocese. Tim
- [Prayer Request](https://columbans.ie/spirituality/prayer-request/) - “Come to me all you who labour and are overburdened and I will give you rest.”(Matt 11:28) If you would like the Columbans to pray for you or for an intention, please fill out the prayer request form below. Your request will remain anonymous if you so wish and we will place you and your
- [Columban Lay Missionaries](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-lay-missionaries/) - From the beginning, Frs Edward Galvin and John Blowick envisioned laity, sisters, brothers and priests engaged in their missionary enterprise. The Society of St Columban has been blessed by the generous lay persons who have worked with its members on mission. It continues to welcome laity as partners in mission and pledges itself to help
- [Irish Columban Pioneers](https://columbans.ie/about-us/irish-columban-pioneers/) - The Columbans are a missionary society of priests who work in cooperation with lay people and Columban Sisters from a standpoint of solidarity with the poor and integrity of creation. Solidarity with the poor means that we recognise the moral challenge of worldwide and local poverty. It means supporting the struggle of the poor for
- [Justice & Peace](https://columbans.ie/mission-outreach/jpic/) - Columban Missionaries believe that a passion for justice, a desire for peace, and concern for creation are fundamental to the living out of the Gospel in our world today. They are not optional elements but core components of our Christian faith. Our mission is to work towards a more just, peaceful, and environmentally sustainable world
- [Shop](https://columbans.ie/shop/) - Recurring Donation Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Mass Request Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page One Time Donation Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
- [Safeguarding All](https://columbans.ie/safeguarding/) - Child Safeguarding Policy Statement of the Constituent Members of the Catholic Church in Ireland The Gospel teaches the importance of ensuring that the Catholic Church community is a warm, welcoming and safe place for children. Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such
- [Join Us](https://columbans.ie/join-us/) - Vocational Discernment Vocation is a Latin word meaning "call." God is calling each and every one to live out our lives fully as human beings, to become the man or woman he made us to be according to our own unique individuality. Discernment is another way to say discovery, so vocational discernment is about discovering
- [About Us](https://columbans.ie/about-us/) - Who are the Columban Missionaries? The Columbans are a Society of missionary priests, who with Columban lay missionaries, minister to people of various cultures as a way of witnessing to the universal love of God. We go in the name of the Church to announce, by deed and word, the Good News of Jesus Christ.
- [Pastoral Ministry](https://columbans.ie/pastoral-ministry/) - Some Columbans who have returned from overseas mission have made themselves available for parish ministry in their home dioceses in Ireland. Over the years these men have provided a valuable service to the local parish and have inserted themselves into the life of the community. Others have taken a keen interest in the local Church
- [Safeguarding - Photograph Consent Form](https://columbans.ie/safeguarding/safeguarding-photograph-consent-form/) - Guidance for the Taking and Using of Images of Children and Young People The use of images plays an important role in online and print publications produced by the Columbans. Children and young people have a right to participate in the social and cultural life of the Society. Images of children and young people are
- [Relevant Safeguarding Documents](https://columbans.ie/safeguarding/relevant-safeguarding-documents/) - Child Safeguarding Statement, Missionary Society of St Columban, Region of Ireland, 2026 Columban Safeguarding Newsletter 2024 Safeguarding Adults in need of protection 2022 Columban Safeguarding Strategic Plan 2022 -2025 Columban (Region of Ireland) eVetting Form SSC Interim Vetting Policy August 2025 Archive
- [Archive of Safeguarding Documents](https://columbans.ie/safeguarding/relevant-safeguarding-documents/archive-of-safeguarding-documents/) - Columban Safeguarding Newsletter 2023 Columban Annual Report 2023 Columban Safeguarding Newsletter June 2022 Columbans-Vulnerable-Adults-Interim-Guidance Columban Annual Safeguarding Report 2022 Strategic Plan 2018 to 2021 Columban Annual Safeguarding Report 2021 Columban Safeguarding Newsletter July 2021 Columban Annual Safeguarding Report 2020 Columban SafeguardingNewsletter 2020 Columban Annual Safeguarding Report 2019 Columban Safeguarding Newsletter Issue 4 June 2019 Missionary
- [St Columban Booklet in English, French, German and Italian](https://columbans.ie/resources/st-columban-booklet-in-english-french-german-and-italian/) - Columban was born around 540AD in Ireland. According to his earliest biographer, the monk Jonas, Columban’s home was in the Province of Leinster, on the south-east side of Ireland. The name Columban is a Latin one that means dove, and he is often depicted with a dove, and with a dazzling sun. a dazzling sun.
- [Test Page](https://columbans.ie/test-page/)
- [Turas Columbanus / The Columban Way](https://columbans.ie/mission-outreach/turas-columbanus/) - The Columban Way or Turas Columbanus is an integral part of the European Via San Columbani. It traces the journey of our Patron, St Columbanus, an Irish monk of the late 6th and early 7th century through Ireland, England, France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein and Italy, from his birthplace in the shadow of Mount Leinster
- [Columban Centre](https://columbans.ie/mission-outreach/columban-centre/) - The Columban Centre - A Place of Welcome and Inclusion Between 2012 and 2024, the Columban Centre in Store Street, Dublin exemplified the Columban Mission priorities of justice, caring for creation, and promoting interfaith dialogue. The Centre was a collaborative project of the Columban Missionaries in Ireland, between the Columban Fathers, the Columban Sisters, Columban
- [Resources](https://columbans.ie/resources/) - From the beginning, Columbans have committed time to sharing their vision and experience of Christian mission with people at home with the aim of: Helping others to grow in their understanding of mission in the world today Rousing the call to mission that every Christian shares through their baptism Encouraging people to reflect on how they can
- [Schools Media Competition](https://columbans.ie/schools-media-competition/) - The Columbans in Ireland and Britain, since 2018, have jointly run a competition for school students aged between the ages of 13-18 on topics such as biodiversity, migrants, peace, racism and the environment. Encouraging creativity and faith engagement with issues in the world today, the competition welcomes both written and image entries. Two separate competitions
- [Annual Report 2024](https://columbans.ie/annual-report/) - As missionary disciples of Jesus, we are called to build bridges and foster mutual understanding through encounters with people of other cultures and religious traditions, as well as to promote healing, reconciliation and peace. Moreover, our commitment to live in solidarity with people on the margins of our world, and to care for the earth,
- [What we do](https://columbans.ie/what-we-do/) - The Missionary Society of St Columbans is an international Catholic missionary society that crosses boundaries of culture and religion. In the countries where we work and here in Ireland, Columban Missionaries live and share the Gospel of Jesus through: Working with poor and exploited peoples. Seeking justice and dignity for migrants and those denied their
- [Pray for Our Missionaries](https://columbans.ie/pray-for-our-missionaries/) - Every member of the Church is called to play a part in the Church’s mission, to be missionary disciples. Jesus told his disciples to pray and not give up (Luke 18:1). When we communicate with God through prayer, we give thanks and praise for God's enduring love and mercy. Please support our mission throughout the
- [Support Columban Parish Promotion](https://columbans.ie/support-columban-parish-promotion/) - As a member of AMRI (the Association of Missionaries and Religious of Ireland) the Columbans are permitted to visit a specific diocese each year to raise awareness of their mission work and the commitment to mission. This is a chance to connect with supporters, family and friends in whatever diocese we are assigned and tell
- [Donate to our Mission projects](https://columbans.ie/donate-to-our-mission-projects/) - Your donation to the Columban Missionaries will help make a real difference to those living on the margins of life in the countries around the world where we work. You can donate online here: Columban Donation or call the Far East office and make a credit or debit card donation via telephone. Tel: (00353) 46
- [Pray for Vocations](https://columbans.ie/pray-for-vocations/) - Prayer is the support that brings to fruition the seed of the vocation within the men and women who offer their lives to serve God. It is through the power of prayer that those seeking to serve as missionary priests are sustained and nurtured. Please pray with us that men will continue to answer the
- [Participate](https://columbans.ie/participate/) - From our foundation, Columbans have committed time to sharing their vision and experience of Christian mission with people at home with the aim of: Helping others to grow in their understanding of mission in the world today Rousing the call to mission that every Christian shares through their baptism Encouraging people to reflect on how they can
- [Cookie Policy (EU)](https://columbans.ie/cookie-policy-eu/)
- [Privacy Statement (EU)](https://columbans.ie/privacy-statement-eu/)
- [Columbans Worldwide](https://columbans.ie/columbans-worldwide/) - CHILE PHILIPPINES PAKISTAN KOREA (IN KOREAN) FIJI JAPAN TAIWAN CHINA IRELAND BRITAIN USA AUSTRALIA CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION NEW ZEALAND COLUMBAN SISTERS COLUMBAN INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE COLUMBAN CENTRE FOR ADVOCACY AND OUTREACH
- [Newsletter](https://columbans.ie/newsletter/)
- [Invitation to Mission](https://columbans.ie/invitation-to-mission/) - Columbans have a tradition of inviting people to join them on mission. We believe that the missionary vocation in all its forms begins with baptism and needs to be nurtured throughout life. Recognising that there is a desire among people to engage in mission in new and creative ways the Columban Missionaries have developed an
- [Invitation to mission programme](https://columbans.ie/join-us/invitation-to-mission-programme/) - Columbans have a tradition of inviting people to join them on mission. We believe that the missionary vocation in all its forms begins with baptism and needs to be nurtured throughout life. Recognising that there is a desire among people to engage in mission in new and creative ways the Columban Missionaries have developed an
- [Discoveries in Prayer Vols I and II](https://columbans.ie/spirituality/discoveries-in-prayer-vols-i-and-ii/) - Columban Fr Malachy Hanratty, who spent most of his missionary life in Japan, has kindly made his popular book, Discoveries in Prayer, published in 2007, available in booklet format. Volumes I and II can be downloaded for free on this page. (See below) According to Fr Malachy, booklets are easier to carry around and helpful
- [Care for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/care-for-the-earth/) - Anybody who visits the European sites of the monasteries founded by St Columban cannot but be struck by the beauty of their natural setting. Like other early Irish saints, finding God in creation came naturally to St Columban. Many legends grew up around him in at the monastery he founded in Luxeuil in north east
- [Aitece](https://columbans.ie/mission-outreach/aitece/) - Aitece – Teaching English in China Aitece is the Association for International Teaching, Educational and Curriculum Exchange, an independent, non-profit organisation which sponsors foreign teachers and experts wishing to work in China. It likewise facilitates Chinese educational institutes recruiting foreign teachers and experts. Its goal is to contribute to the modernisation of China, especially through
- [Expansion of the Mission](https://columbans.ie/centenary/history/expansion-of-the-mission/) - How the Focus Spread out from China and Why The Columban Fathers were established in 1918 as the ’Maynooth Mission to China’ and the first group of missionaries went there in 1920. China remained the main focus for the next 34 years but in 1929 they took on a parish in Manila as a ‘support
- [Approvals of the Society - Foundation Decree 1918](https://columbans.ie/centenary/history/approvals-of-the-society/) - DECREE The Society named the MAYNOOTH MISSION TO CHINA was recently set up in Ireland to spread the Faith among pagans, especially the Chinese. The Holy See was consulted beforehand and the Irish Bishops gave their approval. A little later the founders established a new College with an oratory named St Columban’s College at Dalgan,
- [Synodality 10: Journey to the Periphery (Part 1)](https://columbans.ie/resources/the-synodal-path/synodality-10-journey-to-the-periphery-part-1/) - In the first of two articles, Fr Tom O’Reilly explains why synodality means listening to voices on the periphery as we journey together as a Church. Pope Francis is convinced that the path of synodality is God’s wish for the Church of the third millennium. Synodality has many dimensions, but its basic meaning is ‘journeying
- [Columban Vocation: My Dream of Priesthood](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-missionary-priests/columban-vocation-my-dream-of-priesthood/) - Sarah Mac Donald speaks to Columban seminarian Laurencio Woobin Lee about his call to missionary priesthood. Thirty-two-year-old Laurencio Woobin Lee is sitting in the homely community room at St Columban’s in Dalgan Park (Ireland). He has taken some time off from his English classes to chat to the Far East magazine about his vocation story.
- [Irish Mission League](https://columbans.ie/mission-outreach/irish-mission-league/) - Sharing the Gifts we have Received The Irish Mission League (IML) is a support network for those looking to live out their Christian calling by sharing the gifts they have and supporting others together in prayer. It dates back to the foundation of the Columbans in 1918, making it one of the oldest support groups
- [Stations of the Cross for the Care of Creation](https://columbans.ie/spirituality/stations-of-the-cross-for-the-care-of-creation/) - On 19 February 2022, the Joti Educational and Cultural Centre of Hyderabad diocese in Pakistan organized the annual Lenten Preparation Programme, at which 49 participants from various parishes and schools of the diocese attended. The resource people for the day were from the Diocesan Ecology Commission, write Columban missionary, Fr Liam O’Callaghan. The aim of
- [Columban Vocation: Finding Space for God](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-missionary-priests/columban-vocation-finding-space-for-god/) - Sarah Mac Donald speaks to Korean seminarian John Paul Seung-Jun Ro about finding his missionary path with the Columbans. I found the Columban missionaries through the internet,” John Paul Seung-Jun Ro recalls. He was at a crossroads in his life. Working in an Italian restaurant in Korea, he had completed his obligatory two-year military service
- [Connecting the Nativity story to the Subanen people](https://columbans.ie/connecting-the-nativity-story-to-the-subanen-people/) - Columban missionary Fr Vincent Busch works with the indigenous Subanen people of the Philippines. He explains how the Subanen crafters project with connects the Nativity story with the story of the Subanen people. The Subanens face eviction from their homes by logging and mining companies. With assistance from the Columbans, they use their traditional crafting
- [Columban Vocation: The Santo Niño and My Formation Journey](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-missionary-priests/columban-vocation-the-santo-nino-and-my-formation-journey/) - Fr Elbert Balbastro was ordained in June 2022. He tells us how devotion to the Santo Niño has been central to his faith journey and his formation as a Columban missionary. The celebration of 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines was a momentous event. The commemoration provided us with an opportunity to consider the
- [Resurrection Gifts by Fr Malachy Hanratty](https://columbans.ie/spirituality/resurrection-gifts-by-fr-malachy-hanratty/) - Introduction The object of Vatican II was to rejuvenate the pilgrim church on its journeying through the modern world. It re-emphasised the fundamental truths that ‘God loves us first’, that each one is called into a deepening, conscious relationship with Jesus Christ and into responding to the guidance of God’s Spirit, leading us all into
- [Columban Vocation: From Real Estate to Missionary ](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-missionary-priests/recent-columban-ordinations/) - Columban seminarian Verano Lee Jeong-Rak speaks to Sarah Mac Donald about his journey back to faith and his vocation to missionary priesthood. St Verano is not one of those popular saints whose name trips off your tongue. The 6th century French hermit has all but been forgotten by most of the faithful, perhaps with the
- [The Quad Gardens of Dalgan by Elizabeth McArdle](https://columbans.ie/resources/the-quad-gardens-of-dalgan-by-elizabeth-mcardle/) - St Columban’s, Dalgan Park was built in 1938 and is located on lands once ruled by the high kings of Ireland from nearby Tara. Its construction was loosely based on the model of a cloistered medieval monastery. In bygone days, covered outdoor walkways enabled monks to walk and pray when the weather was inclement. These
- [Praying Scripture Vols I and II](https://columbans.ie/spirituality/praying-scripture/) - Columban Fr Malachy Hanratty, who spent most of his missionary life in Japan, has kindly made the first two parts of his three-part series Discoveries in Praying Scripture available for free online. He explains: Here are a series of ‘Guided Meditations’ that I used with groups. They are examples of what can happen in a
- [Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/resources/dalgan/) - The ‘New Dalgan’ Story Situated three miles south of Navan on five acres of parklands and woods, Dalgan Park is the home of the Missionary Society of St Columban in Ireland. The Society’s first seminary was established at St Columban’s College, Dalgan Park, Shrule, Co Mayo in 1918. Dowdstown House, Navan, Co Meath, was bought
- [Fr Eamon Sheridan and the Rebirth Rehab Centre](https://columbans.ie/fr-eamon-sheridan-myanmars-kachin-state/) - “Recovery is possible anywhere” writes Fr Eamon Sheridan who is working with a life-giving support programme which the Church offers drug addicts in Myanmar’s Kachin State. Every family in Kachin State in North-eastern Myanmar seems to be affected by drug/alcohol addiction. For over 60 years this area has known only war as the Kachin Independence
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- [Donation Failed](https://columbans.ie/donation-failed/) - We're sorry, your donation failed to process. Please try again or contact site support.
- [Donation Confirmation](https://columbans.ie/donation-confirmation/)
- [Training and Formation](https://columbans.ie/training-and-formation/) - Accompaniment Programme: Possible candidates will: – Attend the ‘Discovery Weekend’ programme. – Avail of spiritual direction. – Do a regular pastoral placement in their own parishes or community (when necessary). This will take 6 months to one year before candidates will be accepted into the ‘Orientation Programme’. (Before the end of this programme participants who
- [Discerning a vocation](https://columbans.ie/discerning-a-vocation/) - Who Are We Looking For? Are you someone who: – has a sense of being on a faith journey – has an ability to adapt to a new culture – has a commitment to social justice and care for the earth – has a sensitivity and openness to other cultural traditions – has the capacity
- [Q & A](https://columbans.ie/q-a/) - What kind of people are likely to be interested in becoming a Columban lay missionary? People who have experience of God’s love and are willing to share that love with others, especially with the poor and marginalised overseas. Why is there an age restriction? Working together in different cultures, learning new languages and thinking, all
- [Fr PJ McGlinchey](https://columbans.ie/about-us/irish-columban-pioneers/fr-pj-mcglinchey/) - Fr PJ McGlinchey was born on 6 June 1928 in the village of Raphoe and grew up in the town of Letterkenny in County Donegal. In 1945, he joined the Missionary Society of St Columban and was ordained in 1951, and was assigned to the South Korean diocese of Kwangju in June 1952. Except for
- [Safeguarding Contacts](https://columbans.ie/safeguarding/safeguarding-contacts/) - Child Safeguarding Policy Statement of the Constituent Members of the Catholic Church in Ireland As a constituent member of the Catholic Church in Ireland we recognise and uphold the dignity and rights of all children, are committed to ensuring their safety and well-being, and will work in partnership with parents/guardians to do this. We recognise
- [Virgenia O. Vidad runs the Pedalling to Live project](https://columbans.ie/virgenia-o-vidad-runs-the-pedalling-to-live-project/) - Virgenia O. Vidad runs the Pedalling to Live project which was set up by Columban missionary Fr Oliver McCrossan. She relates how the project has helped Felmar, who has cerebral palsy, to continue his education. I started working for children with disabilities during my college days back 1994 in Ozamiz City. At that time, many
- [Columban Centenary Pilgrim Altar Cloth](https://columbans.ie/centenary/columban-centenary-pilgrim-altar-cloth/) - The Columban Centenary Pilgrim Altar Cloth comprised 14 sections signed by Columbans priests and sisters, lay missionaries, coworkers, supporters and friends. As part of the celebrations for the Centenary, it travelled to every country in the world where Columbans work.
- [Centenary 1918-2018](https://columbans.ie/centenary/) - The Columban Centenary 1918-2018 The Missionary Society of St Columban marked a very important milestone in 2018 when it commemorated 100 years since the Maynooth Mission to China was officially founded on 29 June 1918. A commemorative year opened on St Columban’s Day 23 November 2017 and concluded on St Columban’s Day 23 November 2018.
- [Columban Lay Missionaries](https://columbans.ie/laymission/)
- [Support Columban Mission](https://columbans.ie/support-columban-mission/)
- [Fr Raymond Husband SSC](https://columbans.ie/about-us/meet-the-columbans/meet-some-of-our-columban-priests/fr-raymond-husband/) - Fr Raymond Husband returned to Ireland in 2017 to take up the role of Office Manager with the Irish Mission League and the Far East magazine. Before that, he was a missionary in the Philippines. He talks here about his vocation journey and calling as a Columban missionary. “I can honestly look back on my
- [Founders](https://columbans.ie/centenary/history/founders/) - The Maynooth Mission to China, later to become the Missionary Society of St Columban, was born from the vision of two young priests, Fr Edward Galvin and Fr John Blowick. After being ordained in Ireland, Fr Galvin took up temporary duties in a parish in New York in 1910. He was due to return home
- [Mission Outreach](https://columbans.ie/mission-outreach/) - The Missionary Society of St Columbans is an international Catholic missionary society that crosses boundaries of culture and religion. In the countries where we work and here in Ireland, Columban Missionaries live and share the Gospel of Jesus through: Working with poor and exploited peoples. Seeking justice and dignity for migrants and those denied their rights.
- [Child Safeguarding Statement](https://columbans.ie/safeguarding/child-safeguarding-statement/) - CHILD SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT OF THE REGION OF IRELAND, MISSIONARY SOCIETY OF ST COLUMBAN This statement has been prepared to comply with the requirements of the Children First Act 2015 and is derived from Safeguarding Children Policy and Standards for the Catholic Church in Ireland 2016. Read the statement: Child Safeguarding Statement 2018
- [Spirituality](https://columbans.ie/spirituality/) - Christian spirituality is a way of life guided and empowered by the Spirit of Jesus Christ. St Paul often speaks about it in terms of ‘walking in the Spirit.’ Without the activity of the Spirit in us, it is not possible to follow Jesus, accept his message and live by his values. Columban missionary spirituality
- [Dalgan Audio Visual Library Catalogue](https://columbans.ie/resources/dalgan-audio-visual-library-catalogue/) - We have compiled a list of the videos stored in the Audio Visual Library in Dalgan to help you track down material which you may need for research or other purposes. Download the catalogues here: Dalgan VideoLibrary Catalogue Book2 Dalgan Audio Visual Library- Malachy Smyth Documentaries (1) Dalgan Video Library 2 COL Dalgan VideoLibrary Catalogue
- [Welcome](https://columbans.ie/welcome/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Fr Tim Mulroy SSC Thank you for visiting the website of the Columban Missionaries in Ireland This website will tell you about our past history and our work today in the fields of migrants’ rights, interfaith dialogue, justice, peace and integrity of creation, parish ministry, mission education and much more. 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- [Outreach to Columban Relatives](https://columbans.ie/mission-outreach/outreach-to-columban-relatives/) - A new ministry overseen by Fr Gerry Neylon involves reaching out to relatives of Columbans who served in China in the past to keep their memory alive as well as informing them about what Columbans are doing today in China. Fr Gerry Neylon came home to Ireland just before Christmas 2016 after serving 18 years
- [Stories of Our Journey to Lay Mission](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-lay-missionaries/stories-of-our-journey-to-lay-mission/) - 1 - My Journey with Victoria by Lenette T. Victoria was one of the parishioners I got to know when I was assigned to Ashbourne in 2008. I got to know Victoria and her son Mark in my RCIA (Rites of Christian Initiation of Adults) ministry. He was one of the candidates for baptism. Read
- [Press Centre](https://columbans.ie/press-centre/) - [vc_row][vc_column][td_block_6 separator=”” category_id=”85″ ajax_pagination=”load_more” tdc_css=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]
- [Hymn to St Columban](https://columbans.ie/centenary/hymn-to-st-columban/) - Hymn to St Columban Chorus: Man with a mission, pilgrim for Christ, Fanning to flame Europe’s embers of faith, May our call to mission be ever renewed, Let Christ paint his portrait, Christ paint his portrait, deep with-i-n our hearts. To Cleenish and Bangor he followed the Lord, In silence and study, in work and
- [St Columban](https://columbans.ie/spirituality/st-columban/) - St Columban is the patron of the Missionary Society of St Columban. He is recognised as one of the great pioneers in western European civilization. Columban was born in Leinster in 543. He left Ireland to proclaim Jesus Christ and His Gospel to Western Europe, where people had fallen into barbarism. Amid hardship and persecution,
- [Thank You](https://columbans.ie/thank-you/) - Your message has been sent to us.
- [Centenary Prayer](https://columbans.ie/spirituality/columban-centenary-prayer/) - Heavenly Father, We give you thanks for the privilege of sharing the joy of the Gospel In many cultures. Keep us faithful in responding to your call to communion with your creation, with the poor and with those who are spiritually alienated. Lord Jesus, Grant us the wisdom to know the path we should take, as
- [Reflection](https://columbans.ie/spirituality/reflection/) - "Remember Your Last End" - Sr Redempta Twomey 2. The man had never walked - Sr Redempta Twomey 3. The little boy was playing hide-and-seek with his friends - Sr Redempta Twomey 4. Forgive and Find Freedom - Sr Redempta Twomey 5. What are you giving up for Lent? - Sr Redempta Twomey 6. "What
- ["Remember Your Last End"](https://columbans.ie/spirituality/reflection/remember-your-last-end/) - “Remember your last end,” Scripture admonishes us. Yet it seems that few people do, or maybe they remember when they attend a funeral or hear of a friend’s death. For us, November, the month of the Holy Souls can be a wake-up call. We are jolted into an awareness of the transience of time as
- [Meet the Columbans](https://columbans.ie/about-us/meet-the-columbans/) - The Missionary Society of St Columban encompasses priests, sisters and lay missionaries. Our commitment to God has led us to cross boundaries of culture, language and belief to proclaim the Good News of Jesus to the world. Columban missionaries are recruited from and serve 16 countries where the Society of St Columban works. Through our
- [Columban Centenary Prayer](https://columbans.ie/centenary/columban-centenary-prayer/) - Heavenly Father, We give you thanks for the privilege of sharing the joy of the Gospel In many cultures. Keep us faithful in responding to your call to communion with your creation, with the poor and with those who are spiritually alienated. Lord Jesus, Grant us the wisdom to know the path we should take, as
- [Meet a Columban lay missionary](https://columbans.ie/about-us/meet-the-columbans/meet-a-columban-lay-missionary/) - I Have Chosen Love Luda Luminhay Egbalic is a Columban lay missionary currently living and working in South Korea. I remember how I silently uttered a prayer to bless me in my desire to become a missionary when Pope John Paul II visited the Philippines in 1985. Years later, as I watched a movie about
- [Meet a Columban Sister](https://columbans.ie/about-us/meet-the-columbans/meet-a-columban-sister/) - Sr Rebecca Conlon is a member of the incoming leadership team of the Columban Sisters. She was one of the first group to go to Pakistan in 1990. She talks about missionary life and working with the Christian community in Pakistan. “I arrived in Maghermore, the Columban Sisters’ base in Ireland, in 1967. After boarding
- [Fr Noel Daly SSC](https://columbans.ie/about-us/meet-the-columbans/meet-some-of-our-columban-priests/fr-noel-daly-ssc/) - “Ordained in December 1964, I went to Korea in September 1965. After two years at language school, I was appointed to the newly formed diocese of Wonju alongside Pat Dawson, who was one of the first Columbans in Korea. He was ordained in 1933 and by this stage he as in Sam Chok on the
- [Fr Dan Troy SSC](https://columbans.ie/about-us/meet-the-columbans/meet-some-of-our-columban-priests/fr-dan-troy-ssc/) - From Cork to China - a Columban Journey Forty-nine-year-old Fr Dan Troy hails from rural north Co Cork. He grew up on a farm in Newtownshandrum and later studied civil engineering at university. While working as an engineer, he was seriously considering a missionary vocation. “I got to meet great people on the building sites
- [Columban Mission Promotion](https://columbans.ie/mission-outreach/columban-mission-promotion/) - The Columbans are one of the missionary groups that began in Ireland following the 1916 Easter Rising and the dreams it engendered of giving one’s life for a greater ideal, a new vision. China was the Columban vision and it attracted young women and men of that time to take up the challenge and go.
- [Invitation to Mission: Leaning About ‘Border Control’](https://columbans.ie/join-us/invitation-to-mission-programme/invitation-to-mission-leaning-about-border-control/) - By Rosemary O’Leary, who is a teacher based in London. She shares her experience as a member of the small group of Columban contacts in Britain who spent Holy Week 2016 on a Columban Exposure Visit to the US-Mexico border. After a good rest, we were prepared and ready to seize the day. Now
- [Feedback from Invitation to Mission participants](https://columbans.ie/join-us/invitation-to-mission-programme/feedback-from-invitation-to-mission-participants/) - The Columbans’ ‘Invitation to Mission’ Programme recently saw the UK host a group of ten participants from the Columbans in the USA, looking to deepen their faith and explore how the Columbans and others work for justice, peace and dialogue in a changing Britain. And a changing Britain it certainly has been. Just a week
- [Invitation to Mission: Growing our Lives Here](https://columbans.ie/join-us/invitation-to-mission-programme/invitation-to-mission-growing-our-lives-here/) - By Mark Brown and with his wife Claudia are friends of the Columbans and they have visited Columban projects in Peru. 8 July 2016: Daily Mass was available again for those wanting to participate and it was, as the previous ones had been, a thought-provoking, spiritual way to start your day. After breakfast, we all
- [Invitation to Mission: Where Mercy and Joy meet](https://columbans.ie/join-us/invitation-to-mission-programme/invitation-to-mission-where-mercy-and-joy-meet/) - By Nathalie Marytsch, a Columban lay missionary from Chile working in Birmingham. She shares her experience of a Columban Exposure Visit to the US-Mexico border. 27 March 2016 Today we completed one week since our arrival in El Paso. Signs of tiredness, the effects of the heat, dryness in the air and different types of
- [Invitation to Mission: Building Bonds Across the Sea](https://columbans.ie/join-us/invitation-to-mission-programme/invitation-to-mission-building-bonds-across-the-sea/) - By Rebecca Eastwood, an Advocacy Associate at the Columban Center for Advocacy and Outreach in Washington, DC. 6 July 2016 After a meeting with a member of the House of Lords and the House of Commons, our group stayed and chatted with those who work at CAFOD. As a self-proclaimed political junkie, when I was
- [Ballymun](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-lay-missionaries/stories-of-our-journey-to-lay-mission/ballymun-by-marife-padao/) - By Marife Padao I was so happy when I received my mission appointment. I had asked God to give me St Joseph’s Parish, Ballymun in Dublin as my home here in Ireland. I had a glimpse of what my life would be for three years there. I then made a list of work to do
- [My Journey with Victoria](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-lay-missionaries/stories-of-our-journey-to-lay-mission/my-journey-with-victoria-by-lenette-t/) - By Lenette T Victoria was one of the parishioners I got to know when I was assigned to Ashbourne in 2008. I got to know Victoria and her son Mark in my RCIA (Rites of Christian Initiation of Adults) ministry. He was one of the candidates for baptism. Victoria was one of the parishioners I
- [In Search of my God: The mirror moment](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-lay-missionaries/stories-of-our-journey-to-lay-mission/in-search-of-my-god-the-mirror-moment-by-gracia-k/) - By Gracia K I remember one particular moment when I was standing in front of the mirror combing my hair. As I looked at myself in the mirror, deeper questions about life surfaced. The questions posed to me were, “Who are you?”, “Why were you born?”, “What should you be doing with your life?”, “Where
- [Training and Formation of a Lay Missionary](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-lay-missionaries/training-and-formation-of-a-lay-missionary/) - Accompaniment Programme: Possible candidates will: - Attend the 'Discovery Weekend' programme. - Avail of spiritual direction. - Do a regular pastoral placement in their own parishes or community (when necessary). This will take 6 months to one year before candidates will be accepted into the 'Orientation Programme'. (Before the end of this programme participants who
- [Discerning a vocation to be a Lay Missionary](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-lay-missionaries/discerning-a-vocation-to-be-a-lay-missionary/) - Who Are We Looking For? Are you someone who: - has a sense of being on a faith journey - has an ability to adapt to a new culture - has a commitment to social justice and care for the earth - has a sensitivity and openness to other cultural traditions - has the capacity
- [Mission Awareness Centre in Dalgan](https://columbans.ie/resources/dalgan/mission-awareness-centre-in-dalgan/) - The Columban Mission Awareness Centre welcomes parish, school and community groups to visit Dalgan throughout the year. The Centre has a permanent Mission exhibition, which presents the history of the modern Irish missionary movement of the 20th century, and the work of Columbans across four continents. It houses a number of artefacts, ranging from a
- [Columban students in our International formation programme](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-missionary-priests/columban-students-in-our-international-formation-programme/) - Louie Q. Ybañez I’m from Cagayan de Oro City on the island of Mindanao, in the southern part of the Philippines. I joined the Columban Formation Programme in 2008 and I am currently in my third year of theology at the Loyola School of Theology in Ateneo de Manila University. During my college days, and
- [Columban formation for missionary priesthood](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-missionary-priests/columban-formation-for-missionary-priesthood/) - Brief outline One year’s accompaniment in Ireland. Two years studying philosophy at the International Formation Programme, Manila, Philippines. A Spiritual year in Manila, Philippines. Two years studying theology at the International Formation Programme Manila, Philippines. Two years on First Mission Assignment (FMA) overseas on a Columban Mission. The final one and a half years is
- [Columban missionary priests](https://columbans.ie/join-us/columban-missionary-priests/) - What is a vocation? A vocation is a response to an invitation by God to proclaim the Good News to all. The foundation of our life as Columbans is a call to cross boundaries to participate in the Mission of God creating true communion among all peoples. We respond to this call through personal relationship
- [Fr James Stuart](https://columbans.ie/about-us/irish-columban-pioneers/fr-james-stuart/) - Pioneer to Refugees Fr James Stuart was born in Derry in 1909. He was among the first group of Columban Fathers assigned to Burma in 1936. In 1941, he was in a remote village in the north among the Kachins, when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbour. In 1942 the Japanese army arrived in Burma to
- [Fr Dermot Hurley](https://columbans.ie/about-us/irish-columban-pioneers/fr-dermot-hurley/) - A Pioneer of low-cost Housing in Fiji It was thought that Fr Dermot Hurley wouldn’t be strong enough for mission work because of the tuberculosis he contracted as a seminarian. But after spending five years in a Melbourne parish he was given a chance in Fiji in 1952. There he realised the urban poor needed
- [Cemetery Sunday](https://columbans.ie/resources/dalgan/cemetery-sunday/) - Cemetery Sunday in Dalgan is a very important day in the Columban calendar. It is celebrated on the first Sunday or second Sunday of June depending on when the Bank holiday falls. On Cemetery Sunday, we not only remember Columban priests, sisters and lay missionaries who have died but we in Dalgan and in the
- [Where Columbans serve](https://columbans.ie/about-us/where-columbans-serve/)
- [Interfaith Dialogue](https://columbans.ie/mission-outreach/interfaith-dialogue/) - Participation in and promoting of interreligious dialogue has been an integral part of the Columban understanding of mission for many years. In a world where too often communities convulsed by conflict, or where diversity is seen as a challenge to be met rather than an opportunity to be taken, dialogue is the best way to
- [Migrants Rights](https://columbans.ie/mission-outreach/migrants-rights/) - Immigrants have experienced a break in their primary relationships. They have lost their extended families and have to begin to feel at home again. Their primary need is a welcoming face telling them they are not out of place. A welcoming face is the face of God on a journey that has more to do
- [History of the Society](https://columbans.ie/centenary/history/) - The Missionary Society of St Columban and the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of St Columban were born from the vision of two young priests whom Providence brought together in the years between 1916 and 1920. Edward Galvin, on loan to the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York, heard from a missionary about the religious situation
- [Lectures on the Columbans](https://columbans.ie/centenary/lectures-on-the-columbans/)
- [Who we are](https://columbans.ie/who-we-are/) - The Missionary Society of St Columban is a society of missionary priests, originally founded in 1918 by Fr Edward Galvin and Fr John Blowick for missionary work in China. The newly formed Society took as its patron and model the sixth century Irish missionary to Europe - St Columban - and from that point on

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- [A Columban Missionary in Japan](https://columbans.ie/product/a-columban-missionary-in-japan/) - Assigned to Japan in 1960, once his language studied were completed, Fr Noel Doyle served in the following parishes over a period of 33 years: Kamakura, Arao, Ryujin, Hiratsuka, Katase and Ninomiya. He did an MA in Anthropology at Jochi University (Jesuit), Tokyo, in order to better understand Japanese people, culture, religions etc. He had admired the work of Columban Fr Gerald Griffin (died 2010) who had pioneered a new approach to adult catechetics in Japan.
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- [The Splendid Cause](https://columbans.ie/product/the-splendid-cause/) - A history of the Missionary Society of St Columban from 1916 until 1954 by Fr Neil Collins. Fr John Burger: A young Catholic priest from Cork, Ireland, Fr Edward Galvin, had a missionary calling that inexorably took him to China. But he was not there long before he realised that he needed an organisation behind him to make the kind of impact that he dreamed of making in such a vast country. Hoping to persuade the Catholic bishops of Ireland to set up a missionary college to provide priests for an Irish vicariate in China, he returned to Ireland and gradually began winning friends for his idea. The result was to become the Maynooth Mission to China, later named the Missionary Society of St Columban. After an introductory chapter reviewing previous books on the history of the Columban Fathers in China and elsewhere and outlining the sources and methodologies he used in writing, the author, Fr Neil Collins, enthusiastically chronicles the founding of the Columban Fathers, their spread to the US and Australia, and the work and sufferings of Columban missionaries in China, the Philippines, Korea and Burma. Priests, Sisters, brothers and lay volunteers from Ireland, the United States, Australia and New Zealand joined the mission, willing to share the ever-present dangers from bandits, floods, disease and war. World War II and the Korean War brought internment, and, for some, death. The narrative concludes when the last remaining Columban was expelled from China in 1954. The legacy of Fr Galvin and those whom he inspired continues to be remembered in places as diverse as newly-prosperous Seoul and struggling Yangon.
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- [Lord, Inflame our Hearts with Your Spirit](https://columbans.ie/product/lord-inflame-our-hearts-with-your-spirit/) - Prayers and photographs by Columban missionary Fr Pat Sayles to inspire a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit. Fr Pat Sayles was ordained in 1973. He served on mission in the shanty towns of Lima, Peru. He was editor of the Far East magazine for eight years before he took up his role writing and editing books for the Prayer Trust.
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- [Mission In An Era of Change: The Columbans 1963-2014](https://columbans.ie/product/mission-in-an-era-of-change-the-columbans-1963-2014/) - by Padraig O’Murchu SSC, Red Hen Publishing, 2014, 197 pp.
- [Revolution From The Heart](https://columbans.ie/product/revolution-from-the-heart/) - By Niall O’Brien SSC; Oxford University Press, 1987; Veritas Publications, Dublin 1988; 307pp.
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- [Irish Consulate](https://columbans.ie/tag/irish-consulate/)
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- [Far East](https://columbans.ie/tag/far-east/)
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- [Healing](https://columbans.ie/tag/healing/)
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- [Greenpeace](https://columbans.ie/tag/greenpeace/)
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- [Fr PJ McGlinchy](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-pj-mcglinchy/)
- [Agriculture](https://columbans.ie/tag/agriculture/)
- [Pudsy Ryan](https://columbans.ie/tag/pudsy-ryan/)
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- [Hanyang](https://columbans.ie/tag/hanyang/)
- [Tim Leonard](https://columbans.ie/tag/tim-leonard/)
- [Archbishop John Dooley](https://columbans.ie/tag/archbishop-john-dooley/)
- [Vietnam](https://columbans.ie/tag/vietnam/)
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- [Thailand](https://columbans.ie/tag/thailand/)
- [Pearl Harbor](https://columbans.ie/tag/pearl-harbor/)
- [Diocese of Hyderabad](https://columbans.ie/tag/diocese-of-hyderabad/)
- [Bishop Samson Shukerdin OFM](https://columbans.ie/tag/bishop-samson-shukerdin-ofm/)
- [Nagarparkar](https://columbans.ie/tag/nagarparkar/)
- [St Nicholas](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-nicholas/)
- [Fr Tomás King](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-tomas-king/)
- [Fr PJ McGlinchey](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-pj-mcglinchey/)
- [Columban missionary](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-missionary/)
- [Isidore Development Associatio](https://columbans.ie/tag/isidore-development-associatio/)
- [Co Donegal](https://columbans.ie/tag/co-donegal/)
- [meitheal](https://columbans.ie/tag/meitheal/)
- [St Isidore Farm](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-isidore-farm/)
- [Presidential Distinguished Service Award](https://columbans.ie/tag/presidential-distinguished-service-award/)
- [poverty](https://columbans.ie/tag/poverty/)
- [Diocese of Kwangju](https://columbans.ie/tag/diocese-of-kwangju/)
- [volcano](https://columbans.ie/tag/volcano/)
- [President Park Chung Hee](https://columbans.ie/tag/president-park-chung-hee/)
- [Parish of Christ the Liberator](https://columbans.ie/tag/parish-of-christ-the-liberator/)
- [San Juan de Lurigancho](https://columbans.ie/tag/san-juan-de-lurigancho/)
- [O’Connell Schools](https://columbans.ie/tag/oconnell-schools/)
- [Canada](https://columbans.ie/tag/canada/)
- [Fr Patrick James McGlinchley](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-patrick-james-mcglinchley/)
- [Jeju City](https://columbans.ie/tag/jeju-city/)
- [Hallim](https://columbans.ie/tag/hallim/)
- [President Moon Jae-In](https://columbans.ie/tag/president-moon-jae-in/)
- [Raphoe](https://columbans.ie/tag/raphoe/)
- [St Eunan's College](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-eunans-college/)
- [Letterkenny](https://columbans.ie/tag/letterkenny/)
- [Frank Hoare](https://columbans.ie/tag/frank-hoare/)
- [Catholic Church](https://columbans.ie/tag/catholic-church/)
- [Vatican II](https://columbans.ie/tag/vatican-ii/)
- [laity](https://columbans.ie/tag/laity/)
- [Tomas O Crohan](https://columbans.ie/tag/tomas-o-crohan/)
- [Kerry](https://columbans.ie/tag/kerry/)
- [Fuller College California](https://columbans.ie/tag/fuller-college-california/)
- [Castlerea](https://columbans.ie/tag/castlerea/)
- [Co Roscommon](https://columbans.ie/tag/co-roscommon/)
- [Summerhill College](https://columbans.ie/tag/summerhill-college/)
- [Toshima](https://columbans.ie/tag/toshima/)
- [Tokyo](https://columbans.ie/tag/tokyo/)
- [Katase](https://columbans.ie/tag/katase/)
- [Marist](https://columbans.ie/tag/marist/)
- [Labyrinth](https://columbans.ie/tag/labyrinth/)
- [World Labyrinth Day](https://columbans.ie/tag/world-labyrinth-day/)
- [The Labyrinth Society](https://columbans.ie/tag/the-labyrinth-society/)
- [peace](https://columbans.ie/tag/peace/)
- [conflict](https://columbans.ie/tag/conflict/)
- [Kachin State](https://columbans.ie/tag/kachin-state/)
- [UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights](https://columbans.ie/tag/un-special-rapporteur-on-human-rights/)
- [Bishop Francis Daw Tang](https://columbans.ie/tag/bishop-francis-daw-tang/)
- [Baptist](https://columbans.ie/tag/baptist/)
- [KIA fighters](https://columbans.ie/tag/kia-fighters/)
- [Caritas Myanmar](https://columbans.ie/tag/caritas-myanmar/)
- [Chocolate](https://columbans.ie/tag/chocolate/)
- [rainforests](https://columbans.ie/tag/rainforests/)
- [West Africa](https://columbans.ie/tag/west-africa/)
- [cacao](https://columbans.ie/tag/cacao/)
- [chocolate industry](https://columbans.ie/tag/chocolate-industry/)
- [Spanish conquistadors](https://columbans.ie/tag/spanish-conquistadors/)
- [deforestation](https://columbans.ie/tag/deforestation/)
- [Ivory Coast](https://columbans.ie/tag/ivory-coast/)
- [chimpanzees](https://columbans.ie/tag/chimpanzees/)
- [Ghana](https://columbans.ie/tag/ghana/)
- [Nestle](https://columbans.ie/tag/nestle/)
- [Mondelez](https://columbans.ie/tag/mondelez/)
- [Mars](https://columbans.ie/tag/mars/)
- [Family](https://columbans.ie/tag/family/)
- [Archbishop Diarmuid Martin](https://columbans.ie/tag/archbishop-diarmuid-martin/)
- [World Meeting of Families](https://columbans.ie/tag/world-meeting-of-families/)
- [Matt Talbot](https://columbans.ie/tag/matt-talbot/)
- [Koreans](https://columbans.ie/tag/koreans/)
- [Latin Americans](https://columbans.ie/tag/latin-americans/)
- [Co Clare](https://columbans.ie/tag/co-clare/)
- [Communists](https://columbans.ie/tag/communists/)
- [Columban Centre](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-centre/)
- [Synge Street](https://columbans.ie/tag/synge-street/)
- [Lantern Intercultural Centre](https://columbans.ie/tag/lantern-intercultural-centre/)
- [Christian Brothers](https://columbans.ie/tag/christian-brothers/)
- [intercultural](https://columbans.ie/tag/intercultural/)
- [interfaith dialogue](https://columbans.ie/tag/interfaith-dialogue/)
- [Crosscare](https://columbans.ie/tag/crosscare/)
- [Archdiocese of Dublin](https://columbans.ie/tag/archdiocese-of-dublin/)
- [Chinese Catholic community](https://columbans.ie/tag/chinese-catholic-community/)
- [Fr Peter McVerry](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-peter-mcverry/)
- [GDPR](https://columbans.ie/tag/gdpr/)
- [General Data Protection Regulation](https://columbans.ie/tag/general-data-protection-regulation/)
- [personal data](https://columbans.ie/tag/personal-data/)
- [marketing](https://columbans.ie/tag/marketing/)
- [IT systems](https://columbans.ie/tag/it-systems/)
- [GDPR compliant](https://columbans.ie/tag/gdpr-compliant/)
- [benefactors](https://columbans.ie/tag/benefactors/)
- [Fr Oliver McCrossan](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-oliver-mccrossan/)
- [Virgenia Oral-Vidad](https://columbans.ie/tag/virgenia-oral-vidad/)
- [Green Shelter Inc](https://columbans.ie/tag/green-shelter-inc/)
- [Ozamiz City](https://columbans.ie/tag/ozamiz-city/)
- [cooperative](https://columbans.ie/tag/cooperative/)
- [Deaf](https://columbans.ie/tag/deaf/)
- [hearing-impaired](https://columbans.ie/tag/hearing-impaired/)
- [Organic farmers](https://columbans.ie/tag/organic-farmers/)
- [Columban priests](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-priests/)
- [Pontifical Irish College in Rome](https://columbans.ie/tag/pontifical-irish-college-in-rome/)
- [Rome](https://columbans.ie/tag/rome/)
- [Fr Edward Galvin](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-edward-galvin/)
- [Pope Benedict XV](https://columbans.ie/tag/pope-benedict-xv/)
- [mission society](https://columbans.ie/tag/mission-society/)
- [Fr Kevin O’Neill](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-kevin-oneill/)
- [Bobbio](https://columbans.ie/tag/bobbio/)
- [Italy](https://columbans.ie/tag/italy/)
- [reliquary](https://columbans.ie/tag/reliquary/)
- [Irish](https://columbans.ie/tag/irish/)
- [Mandarin](https://columbans.ie/tag/mandarin/)
- [Tagalog](https://columbans.ie/tag/tagalog/)
- [Spanish](https://columbans.ie/tag/spanish/)
- [Korean](https://columbans.ie/tag/korean/)
- [Parkari Koli](https://columbans.ie/tag/parkari-koli/)
- [Burmese](https://columbans.ie/tag/burmese/)
- [Fr Peter Leonard](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-peter-leonard/)
- [Collegio San Colombano](https://columbans.ie/tag/collegio-san-colombano/)
- [Minister Park Sang-ki](https://columbans.ie/tag/minister-park-sang-ki/)
- [Jeju](https://columbans.ie/tag/jeju/)
- [hog](https://columbans.ie/tag/hog/)
- [Cemetery Sunday](https://columbans.ie/tag/cemetery-sunday/)
- [Jastine Valdez](https://columbans.ie/tag/jastine-valdez/)
- [Fr Pat Raleigh](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-pat-raleigh/)
- [Irish Filipino Community](https://columbans.ie/tag/irish-filipino-community/)
- [Fr Neil Collins](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-neil-collins/)
- [A Mad Thing To Do](https://columbans.ie/tag/a-mad-thing-to-do/)
- [Eco theologian](https://columbans.ie/tag/eco-theologian/)
- [Leaving Cert](https://columbans.ie/tag/leaving-cert/)
- [Politics and Society](https://columbans.ie/tag/politics-and-society/)
- [globalisation](https://columbans.ie/tag/globalisation/)
- [US/Mexico border](https://columbans.ie/tag/us-mexico-border/)
- [Columban Centre For Advocacy and Outreach](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-centre-for-advocacy-and-outreach/)
- [Catholic Social Teaching](https://columbans.ie/tag/catholic-social-teaching/)
- [Rev Robert E Mosher](https://columbans.ie/tag/rev-robert-e-mosher/)
- [El Paso](https://columbans.ie/tag/el-paso/)
- [Texas](https://columbans.ie/tag/texas/)
- [border communities](https://columbans.ie/tag/border-communities/)
- [US Administration](https://columbans.ie/tag/us-administration/)
- [Special Olympics](https://columbans.ie/tag/special-olympics/)
- [Athletics](https://columbans.ie/tag/athletics/)
- [Swimming](https://columbans.ie/tag/swimming/)
- [Nuala Burns](https://columbans.ie/tag/nuala-burns/)
- [National Sports Campus](https://columbans.ie/tag/national-sports-campus/)
- [Special Olympics World Summer Games](https://columbans.ie/tag/special-olympics-world-summer-games/)
- [Abu Dhabi](https://columbans.ie/tag/abu-dhabi/)
- [Feast of Sts Peter and Paul](https://columbans.ie/tag/feast-of-sts-peter-and-paul/)
- [Foundation](https://columbans.ie/tag/foundation/)
- [Columban mission](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-mission/)
- [Holy See](https://columbans.ie/tag/holy-see/)
- [St Columban’s College](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-columbans-college/)
- [John Henaghan](https://columbans.ie/tag/john-henaghan/)
- [Edward McCarthy](https://columbans.ie/tag/edward-mccarthy/)
- [James Conway](https://columbans.ie/tag/james-conway/)
- [Thomas O’Dea](https://columbans.ie/tag/thomas-odea/)
- [Dan Canniffe](https://columbans.ie/tag/dan-canniffe/)
- [Bandon](https://columbans.ie/tag/bandon/)
- [Tralee](https://columbans.ie/tag/tralee/)
- [Navan Hospital](https://columbans.ie/tag/navan-hospital/)
- [Angie Escarsa](https://columbans.ie/tag/angie-escarsa/)
- [Archbishop Diarmuid Martin of Dublin](https://columbans.ie/tag/archbishop-diarmuid-martin-of-dublin/)
- [Fr Pat Colgan](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-pat-colgan/)
- [Fr Ray Husband](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-ray-husband/)
- [Fr Damian McNeice](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-damian-mcneice/)
- [The Far East](https://columbans.ie/tag/the-far-east/)
- [Irish Mission League](https://columbans.ie/tag/irish-mission-league/)
- [Joy](https://columbans.ie/tag/joy/)
- [Fr Sean McDonagh](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-sean-mcdonagh/)
- [Vatican](https://columbans.ie/tag/vatican/)
- [Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development](https://columbans.ie/tag/dicastery-for-promoting-integral-human-development/)
- [Professor Nicholas Stern](https://columbans.ie/tag/professor-nicholas-stern/)
- [London School of Economics](https://columbans.ie/tag/london-school-of-economics/)
- [carbon-neutral lifestyles](https://columbans.ie/tag/carbon-neutral-lifestyles/)
- [COP 21](https://columbans.ie/tag/cop-21/)
- [T’boli people](https://columbans.ie/tag/tboli-people/)
- [Foundation Day](https://columbans.ie/tag/foundation-day/)
- [Archbishop Kieran O'Reilly](https://columbans.ie/tag/archbishop-kieran-oreilly/)
- [Bishop Thomas O’Dea](https://columbans.ie/tag/bishop-thomas-odea/)
- [Junipero Serra](https://columbans.ie/tag/junipero-serra/)
- [Columban Sisters](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-sisters/)
- [Isidore Development Association](https://columbans.ie/tag/isidore-development-association/)
- [Youth](https://columbans.ie/tag/youth/)
- [Columban Centennial Youth Mission Exposure](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-centennial-youth-mission-exposure/)
- [Seoul](https://columbans.ie/tag/seoul/)
- [Fr Joseph Kang](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-joseph-kang/)
- [Trump](https://columbans.ie/tag/trump/)
- [St Columbanus](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-columbanus/)
- [Muintir na Tire](https://columbans.ie/tag/muintir-na-tire/)
- [Turas Columbanus](https://columbans.ie/tag/turas-columbanus/)
- [Association of Friends of St Columbanus](https://columbans.ie/tag/association-of-friends-of-st-columbanus/)
- [Mount Leinster](https://columbans.ie/tag/mount-leinster/)
- [Myshall](https://columbans.ie/tag/myshall/)
- [Bective Abbey](https://columbans.ie/tag/bective-abbey/)
- [Hill of Tara](https://columbans.ie/tag/hill-of-tara/)
- [Santiago de Compostela](https://columbans.ie/tag/santiago-de-compostela/)
- [Joe Humphreys](https://columbans.ie/tag/joe-humphreys/)
- [Mary McAleese](https://columbans.ie/tag/mary-mcaleese/)
- [Irish missionary movement](https://columbans.ie/tag/irish-missionary-movement/)
- [Urban poor](https://columbans.ie/tag/urban-poor/)
- [Bl Oscar Romero](https://columbans.ie/tag/bl-oscar-romero/)
- [Dought](https://columbans.ie/tag/dought/)
- [water charges](https://columbans.ie/tag/water-charges/)
- [water infrastructure](https://columbans.ie/tag/water-infrastructure/)
- [Ophelia](https://columbans.ie/tag/ophelia/)
- [hurricane](https://columbans.ie/tag/hurricane/)
- [Irish Water](https://columbans.ie/tag/irish-water/)
- [heatwave](https://columbans.ie/tag/heatwave/)
- [Oireachtas](https://columbans.ie/tag/oireachtas/)
- [Minister for the Environment](https://columbans.ie/tag/minister-for-the-environment/)
- [Community and Local Government](https://columbans.ie/tag/community-and-local-government/)
- [Phil Hogan](https://columbans.ie/tag/phil-hogan/)
- [Dáil](https://columbans.ie/tag/dail/)
- [President of Ireland](https://columbans.ie/tag/president-of-ireland/)
- [Dr Mary McAleese](https://columbans.ie/tag/dr-mary-mcaleese/)
- [European project](https://columbans.ie/tag/european-project/)
- [Missionary Society of Columban](https://columbans.ie/tag/missionary-society-of-columban/)
- [Navan](https://columbans.ie/tag/navan/)
- [NJPN](https://columbans.ie/tag/njpn/)
- [National Justice and Peace Network](https://columbans.ie/tag/national-justice-and-peace-network/)
- [Church Action on Poverty](https://columbans.ie/tag/church-action-on-poverty/)
- [Housing Justice](https://columbans.ie/tag/housing-justice/)
- [Prison Advice and Care Trust](https://columbans.ie/tag/prison-advice-and-care-trust/)
- [Apostleship of the Sea](https://columbans.ie/tag/apostleship-of-the-sea/)
- [Mill Hill missionaries](https://columbans.ie/tag/mill-hill-missionaries/)
- [Assumption Sisters](https://columbans.ie/tag/assumption-sisters/)
- [Pax Christi](https://columbans.ie/tag/pax-christi/)
- [interfaith](https://columbans.ie/tag/interfaith/)
- [Fr Jim Fleming](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-jim-fleming/)
- [empire](https://columbans.ie/tag/empire/)
- [Migration](https://columbans.ie/tag/migration/)
- [Christian witness](https://columbans.ie/tag/christian-witness/)
- [inter-religious](https://columbans.ie/tag/inter-religious/)
- [Westminster Cathedral](https://columbans.ie/tag/westminster-cathedral/)
- [Tipperary](https://columbans.ie/tag/tipperary/)
- [Warmi Huasi](https://columbans.ie/tag/warmi-huasi/)
- [San Benito](https://columbans.ie/tag/san-benito/)
- [Lomas de Carabayllo](https://columbans.ie/tag/lomas-de-carabayllo/)
- [Andean mountains](https://columbans.ie/tag/andean-mountains/)
- [Isidore Co-operative](https://columbans.ie/tag/isidore-co-operative/)
- [Bishop Daniel Tji](https://columbans.ie/tag/bishop-daniel-tji/)
- [Phoenix Park](https://columbans.ie/tag/phoenix-park/)
- [Festival of Families](https://columbans.ie/tag/festival-of-families/)
- [Skoda](https://columbans.ie/tag/skoda/)
- [papal visit](https://columbans.ie/tag/papal-visit/)
- [WMOF2018](https://columbans.ie/tag/wmof2018/)
- [Dublin Airport](https://columbans.ie/tag/dublin-airport/)
- [Dublin Castle](https://columbans.ie/tag/dublin-castle/)
- [Knock](https://columbans.ie/tag/knock/)
- [Fr Cyril Lovett](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-cyril-lovett/)
- [Vatican City](https://columbans.ie/tag/vatican-city/)
- [Foyle Search and Rescue](https://columbans.ie/tag/foyle-search-and-rescue/)
- [Archbishop Eamon Martin](https://columbans.ie/tag/archbishop-eamon-martin/)
- [Taoiseach](https://columbans.ie/tag/taoiseach/)
- [Leo Varadkar](https://columbans.ie/tag/leo-varadkar/)
- [Bonded labour](https://columbans.ie/tag/bonded-labour/)
- [Fr Liam O’Callaghan](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-liam-ocallaghan/)
- [Newstalk](https://columbans.ie/tag/newstalk/)
- [slavery](https://columbans.ie/tag/slavery/)
- [Christians](https://columbans.ie/tag/christians/)
- [Primate of All Ireland](https://columbans.ie/tag/primate-of-all-ireland/)
- [Armagh](https://columbans.ie/tag/armagh/)
- [Good News](https://columbans.ie/tag/good-news/)
- [St Patrick’s Cathedral](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-patricks-cathedral/)
- [Cardinal Logue](https://columbans.ie/tag/cardinal-logue/)
- [Hares](https://columbans.ie/tag/hares/)
- [mammals](https://columbans.ie/tag/mammals/)
- [rabbits](https://columbans.ie/tag/rabbits/)
- [leverets](https://columbans.ie/tag/leverets/)
- [predators](https://columbans.ie/tag/predators/)
- [kangaroo](https://columbans.ie/tag/kangaroo/)
- [herbivores](https://columbans.ie/tag/herbivores/)
- [cuckoo](https://columbans.ie/tag/cuckoo/)
- [zygodactyl](https://columbans.ie/tag/zygodactyl/)
- [hatchlings](https://columbans.ie/tag/hatchlings/)
- [eggs](https://columbans.ie/tag/eggs/)
- [Gospels](https://columbans.ie/tag/gospels/)
- [Africa](https://columbans.ie/tag/africa/)
- [Lent](https://columbans.ie/tag/lent/)
- [Russia](https://columbans.ie/tag/russia/)
- [Rabbi](https://columbans.ie/tag/rabbi/)
- [Hasidic](https://columbans.ie/tag/hasidic/)
- [Lazarus](https://columbans.ie/tag/lazarus/)
- [sat-nav](https://columbans.ie/tag/sat-nav/)
- [Calvary](https://columbans.ie/tag/calvary/)
- [adolescents](https://columbans.ie/tag/adolescents/)
- [barnacles](https://columbans.ie/tag/barnacles/)
- [Amoris Laetitia](https://columbans.ie/tag/amoris-laetitia/)
- [Love](https://columbans.ie/tag/love/)
- [Fr Tim Mulroy](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-tim-mulroy/)
- [Superior General](https://columbans.ie/tag/superior-general/)
- [General Assembly](https://columbans.ie/tag/general-assembly/)
- [Taiwan](https://columbans.ie/tag/taiwan/)
- [Columban International Seminary](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-international-seminary/)
- [Chicago](https://columbans.ie/tag/chicago/)
- [Vicar General](https://columbans.ie/tag/vicar-general/)
- [Fr Arturo Aguilar](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-arturo-aguilar/)
- [Fr Brian Vale](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-brian-vale/)
- [New Zealand](https://columbans.ie/tag/new-zealand/)
- [Joseph Kang](https://columbans.ie/tag/joseph-kang/)
- [Fr Alvaro Martinez](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-alvaro-martinez/)
- [General Council](https://columbans.ie/tag/general-council/)
- [seminarian](https://columbans.ie/tag/seminarian/)
- [Belcarra](https://columbans.ie/tag/belcarra/)
- [Fr Alvaro Patricio Martinez Ibañez](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-alvaro-patricio-martinez-ibanez/)
- [Columban Schools Journalism competition](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-schools-journalism-competition/)
- [Paul Melia](https://columbans.ie/tag/paul-melia/)
- [Patsy McGarry](https://columbans.ie/tag/patsy-mcgarry/)
- [Michael Kelly](https://columbans.ie/tag/michael-kelly/)
- [Irish Bishops’ Conference](https://columbans.ie/tag/irish-bishops-conference/)
- [Mission Month](https://columbans.ie/tag/mission-month/)
- [Missionary Families](https://columbans.ie/tag/missionary-families/)
- [The Columban Way](https://columbans.ie/tag/the-columban-way/)
- [Knights of St Columbanus](https://columbans.ie/tag/knights-of-st-columbanus/)
- [Kildare](https://columbans.ie/tag/kildare/)
- [Clonard](https://columbans.ie/tag/clonard/)
- [Cleenish](https://columbans.ie/tag/cleenish/)
- [Downpatrick](https://columbans.ie/tag/downpatrick/)
- [Robert Schuman](https://columbans.ie/tag/robert-schuman/)
- [European Union](https://columbans.ie/tag/european-union/)
- [Kildysart](https://columbans.ie/tag/kildysart/)
- [Cahiracon](https://columbans.ie/tag/cahiracon/)
- [Oscar Romero](https://columbans.ie/tag/oscar-romero/)
- [Pope Paul VI](https://columbans.ie/tag/pope-paul-vi/)
- [Bishop Patrick Cleary](https://columbans.ie/tag/bishop-patrick-cleary/)
- [Bishop Fintan Monahan](https://columbans.ie/tag/bishop-fintan-monahan/)
- [Sr Cecily McMahon](https://columbans.ie/tag/sr-cecily-mcmahon/)
- [Sr Mary Dillon](https://columbans.ie/tag/sr-mary-dillon/)
- [Sr Brid Kenny](https://columbans.ie/tag/sr-brid-kenny/)
- [Joan Sawyer](https://columbans.ie/tag/joan-sawyer/)
- [Fr Thomas Flynn](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-thomas-flynn/)
- [Fr Tom Cusack](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-tom-cusack/)
- [St Michael’s Parish](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-michaels-parish/)
- [Kildysert](https://columbans.ie/tag/kildysert/)
- [Tuam Archdiocese](https://columbans.ie/tag/tuam-archdiocese/)
- [St Jarlath’s College](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-jarlaths-college/)
- [Trócaire](https://columbans.ie/tag/trocaire/)
- [Mission Sunday](https://columbans.ie/tag/mission-sunday/)
- [Neo liberal economics](https://columbans.ie/tag/neo-liberal-economics/)
- [Irish Church](https://columbans.ie/tag/irish-church/)
- [Cllr Jim Holloway](https://columbans.ie/tag/cllr-jim-holloway/)
- [Navan Municipal District](https://columbans.ie/tag/navan-municipal-district/)
- [Meath County Council](https://columbans.ie/tag/meath-county-council/)
- [Cllr Tom Kelly](https://columbans.ie/tag/cllr-tom-kelly/)
- [Fr Sean Holloway](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-sean-holloway/)
- [Jackie Maguire](https://columbans.ie/tag/jackie-maguire/)
- [Archbishop Michael Neary](https://columbans.ie/tag/archbishop-michael-neary/)
- [Tuam](https://columbans.ie/tag/tuam/)
- [Mayo](https://columbans.ie/tag/mayo/)
- [Michael Davitt](https://columbans.ie/tag/michael-davitt/)
- [Irish National Land League](https://columbans.ie/tag/irish-national-land-league/)
- [Sun Yat-sen](https://columbans.ie/tag/sun-yat-sen/)
- [Republic of China](https://columbans.ie/tag/republic-of-china/)
- [Fr Sean McNulty](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-sean-mcnulty/)
- [Columban martyrs](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-martyrs/)
- [Mao Zedong](https://columbans.ie/tag/mao-zedong/)
- [CORNELIUS TIERNEY](https://columbans.ie/tag/cornelius-tierney/)
- [FRANCIS VERNON DOUGLAS](https://columbans.ie/tag/francis-vernon-douglas/)
- [PATRICK McMAHON](https://columbans.ie/tag/patrick-mcmahon/)
- [PATRICK KELLY](https://columbans.ie/tag/patrick-kelly/)
- [JOHN LALOR](https://columbans.ie/tag/john-lalor/)
- [JOE MONAGHAN](https://columbans.ie/tag/joe-monaghan/)
- [PETER FALLON](https://columbans.ie/tag/peter-fallon/)
- [THOMAS J MURPHY](https://columbans.ie/tag/thomas-j-murphy/)
- [TONY COLLIER](https://columbans.ie/tag/tony-collier/)
- [PATRICK REILLY](https://columbans.ie/tag/patrick-reilly/)
- [JIM MAGINN](https://columbans.ie/tag/jim-maginn/)
- [FRANK CANAVAN](https://columbans.ie/tag/frank-canavan/)
- [PATRICK BRENNAN](https://columbans.ie/tag/patrick-brennan/)
- [THOMAS CUSACK](https://columbans.ie/tag/thomas-cusack/)
- [JOHN O’BRIEN](https://columbans.ie/tag/john-obrien/)
- [TOMMY FLYNN](https://columbans.ie/tag/tommy-flynn/)
- [JOHN WALSH](https://columbans.ie/tag/john-walsh/)
- [MARTIN DEMPSEY](https://columbans.ie/tag/martin-dempsey/)
- [JAMES DONOHUE](https://columbans.ie/tag/james-donohue/)
- [VINCENT J. POWER](https://columbans.ie/tag/vincent-j-power/)
- [RUFUS HALLEY](https://columbans.ie/tag/rufus-halley/)
- [St. Patrick’s College](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-patricks-college/)
- [John Fraser](https://columbans.ie/tag/john-fraser/)
- [Edward J. McCarthy](https://columbans.ie/tag/edward-j-mccarthy/)
- [Joseph O’Leary](https://columbans.ie/tag/joseph-oleary/)
- [Cardinal Michael Logue](https://columbans.ie/tag/cardinal-michael-logue/)
- [Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith (Propaganda)](https://columbans.ie/tag/congregation-for-the-propagation-of-the-faith-propaganda/)
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- [Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)](https://columbans.ie/tag/intergovernmental-panel-on-climate-change-ipcc/)
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- [Fr Malachy Smyth](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-malachy-smyth/)
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- [Michael Davitt Museum](https://columbans.ie/tag/michael-davitt-museum/)
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- [Meister Eckhart](https://columbans.ie/tag/meister-eckhart/)
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- [olumban Ecological Institute](https://columbans.ie/tag/olumban-ecological-institute/)
- [Columban Centenary Year](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-centenary-year/)
- [Dowdstown House](https://columbans.ie/tag/dowdstown-house/)
- [native tree species](https://columbans.ie/tag/native-tree-species/)
- [Danish Yakoob](https://columbans.ie/tag/danish-yakoob/)
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- [Fr Raymond Husband](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-raymond-husband/)
- [Gospel of Life](https://columbans.ie/tag/gospel-of-life/)
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- [Fr Lawrence (Leo) Clarke](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-lawrence-leo-clarke/)
- [St Finian’s College](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-finians-college/)
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- [diocese of Chunchon](https://columbans.ie/tag/diocese-of-chunchon/)
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- [criminal liability](https://columbans.ie/tag/criminal-liability/)
- [Preda Foundation](https://columbans.ie/tag/preda-foundation/)
- [Francis B. Bermido Jr](https://columbans.ie/tag/francis-b-bermido-jr/)
- [children's rights](https://columbans.ie/tag/childrens-rights/)
- [Fr John Marley](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-john-marley/)
- [Mae Olivia Conroy](https://columbans.ie/tag/mae-olivia-conroy/)
- [Bristol](https://columbans.ie/tag/bristol/)
- [Rhode Island](https://columbans.ie/tag/rhode-island/)
- [Castleknock](https://columbans.ie/tag/castleknock/)
- [Lauren Coombes](https://columbans.ie/tag/lauren-coombes/)
- [Patrick Conroy](https://columbans.ie/tag/patrick-conroy/)
- [Cabra](https://columbans.ie/tag/cabra/)
- [Pro Cathedral](https://columbans.ie/tag/pro-cathedral/)
- [Fr Columb (Colm) Rafferty](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-columb-colm-rafferty/)
- [Co Derry](https://columbans.ie/tag/co-derry/)
- [St Columb’s College](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-columbs-college/)
- [Negros](https://columbans.ie/tag/negros/)
- [Zambales](https://columbans.ie/tag/zambales/)
- [Malate](https://columbans.ie/tag/malate/)
- [Los Angeles](https://columbans.ie/tag/los-angeles/)
- [Bellaghy](https://columbans.ie/tag/bellaghy/)
- [Fr Peter Hughes](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-peter-hughes/)
- [Synod on Amazonia](https://columbans.ie/tag/synod-on-amazonia/)
- [Amazon](https://columbans.ie/tag/amazon/)
- [rainforest](https://columbans.ie/tag/rainforest/)
- [Instituto Bartolome de las Casas](https://columbans.ie/tag/instituto-bartolome-de-las-casas/)
- [CELAM](https://columbans.ie/tag/celam/)
- [REPAM](https://columbans.ie/tag/repam/)
- [Pan-Amazonia Ecclesial Network](https://columbans.ie/tag/pan-amazonia-ecclesial-network/)
- [Amy Woolam Echeverria](https://columbans.ie/tag/amy-woolam-echeverria/)
- [JPIC Coordinator](https://columbans.ie/tag/jpic-coordinator/)
- [Congo basin](https://columbans.ie/tag/congo-basin/)
- [Guarani Aquifer](https://columbans.ie/tag/guarani-aquifer/)
- [Caritas](https://columbans.ie/tag/caritas/)
- [Stations of the Cross](https://columbans.ie/tag/stations-of-the-cross/)
- [Fr Charles Rue](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-charles-rue/)
- [coal mining](https://columbans.ie/tag/coal-mining/)
- [Fr Neil Magill](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-neil-magill/)
- [Mandalay Archdiocesan Higher Education Centre](https://columbans.ie/tag/mandalay-archdiocesan-higher-education-centre/)
- [Mandalay](https://columbans.ie/tag/mandalay/)
- [Scott Wright](https://columbans.ie/tag/scott-wright/)
- [Columban Centre for Advocacy & Outreach](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-centre-for-advocacy-outreach/)
- [Ash Wednesday](https://columbans.ie/tag/ash-wednesday/)
- [fasting](https://columbans.ie/tag/fasting/)
- [prayer](https://columbans.ie/tag/prayer/)
- [almsgiving](https://columbans.ie/tag/almsgiving/)
- [God](https://columbans.ie/tag/god/)
- [fossil fuels](https://columbans.ie/tag/fossil-fuels/)
- [olumban Mission Centre in El Paso](https://columbans.ie/tag/olumban-mission-centre-in-el-paso/)
- [Pan-Amazonian Church Network](https://columbans.ie/tag/pan-amazonian-church-network/)
- [Synod on the Amazon](https://columbans.ie/tag/synod-on-the-amazon/)
- [Farming](https://columbans.ie/tag/farming/)
- [Spring](https://columbans.ie/tag/spring/)
- [Dr John Feehan](https://columbans.ie/tag/dr-john-feehan/)
- [Columban Ecological Institute](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-ecological-institute/)
- [Columban Schools Journalism](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-schools-journalism/)
- [Columban Missionary Society](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-missionary-society/)
- [Christchurch](https://columbans.ie/tag/christchurch/)
- [Aotearoa](https://columbans.ie/tag/aotearoa/)
- [extremism](https://columbans.ie/tag/extremism/)
- [Aasia Bibi](https://columbans.ie/tag/aasia-bibi/)
- [Lahore](https://columbans.ie/tag/lahore/)
- [Prophet Muhammad](https://columbans.ie/tag/prophet-muhammad/)
- [Lahore High Court](https://columbans.ie/tag/lahore-high-court/)
- [Saqib Nisar](https://columbans.ie/tag/saqib-nisar/)
- [Salman Taseer](https://columbans.ie/tag/salman-taseer/)
- [Punjab](https://columbans.ie/tag/punjab/)
- [Sustainable Development Goals](https://columbans.ie/tag/sustainable-development-goals/)
- [Religions](https://columbans.ie/tag/religions/)
- [Pontifical Council on Interreligious Dialogue](https://columbans.ie/tag/pontifical-council-on-interreligious-dialogue/)
- [United Nations](https://columbans.ie/tag/united-nations/)
- [Cardinal Pietro Parolin](https://columbans.ie/tag/cardinal-pietro-parolin/)
- [Judaism](https://columbans.ie/tag/judaism/)
- [Islam](https://columbans.ie/tag/islam/)
- [Rabbi David Rosen](https://columbans.ie/tag/rabbi-david-rosen/)
- [Rev Martin Junge](https://columbans.ie/tag/rev-martin-junge/)
- [Lutheran World Federation](https://columbans.ie/tag/lutheran-world-federation/)
- [Sheikh Mohamad Abou Zeid](https://columbans.ie/tag/sheikh-mohamad-abou-zeid/)
- [Dr Vandana Shiva](https://columbans.ie/tag/dr-vandana-shiva/)
- [Rev Awami Agnivesh](https://columbans.ie/tag/rev-awami-agnivesh/)
- [JPIC](https://columbans.ie/tag/jpic/)
- [Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-centre-for-christian-muslim-relations/)
- [Georgetown University](https://columbans.ie/tag/georgetown-university/)
- [Amazon Synod](https://columbans.ie/tag/amazon-synod/)
- [Yale University](https://columbans.ie/tag/yale-university/)
- [Mary Evelyn Tucker](https://columbans.ie/tag/mary-evelyn-tucker/)
- [Integral Ecology](https://columbans.ie/tag/integral-ecology/)
- [Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle](https://columbans.ie/tag/cardinal-luis-antonio-tagle/)
- [Fr Sean Dwan](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-sean-dwan/)
- [Ramadan](https://columbans.ie/tag/ramadan/)
- [Lenten fast](https://columbans.ie/tag/lenten-fast/)
- [Zen meditation](https://columbans.ie/tag/zen-meditation/)
- [Ethiopia](https://columbans.ie/tag/ethiopia/)
- [Orthodox Christians](https://columbans.ie/tag/orthodox-christians/)
- [Ethiopian Orthodox](https://columbans.ie/tag/ethiopian-orthodox/)
- [Assumption](https://columbans.ie/tag/assumption/)
- [Columban Way](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-way/)
- [Via Columbani](https://columbans.ie/tag/via-columbani/)
- [Dr Edel Bhreathnach](https://columbans.ie/tag/dr-edel-bhreathnach/)
- [Alderman Deborah Girvan](https://columbans.ie/tag/alderman-deborah-girvan/)
- [European Association of the Columban Way](https://columbans.ie/tag/european-association-of-the-columban-way/)
- [Dr Alexander O’Hara](https://columbans.ie/tag/dr-alexander-ohara/)
- [Co Tyrone](https://columbans.ie/tag/co-tyrone/)
- [UCD](https://columbans.ie/tag/ucd/)
- [Jesuit](https://columbans.ie/tag/jesuit/)
- [SDLP](https://columbans.ie/tag/sdlp/)
- [Magherafelt Council](https://columbans.ie/tag/magherafelt-council/)
- [Northern Ireland Assembly](https://columbans.ie/tag/northern-ireland-assembly/)
- [Martin Luther King](https://columbans.ie/tag/martin-luther-king/)
- [American Civil Rights Movement](https://columbans.ie/tag/american-civil-rights-movement/)
- [Queen’s University Belfast](https://columbans.ie/tag/queens-university-belfast/)
- [EEC Council of Ministers](https://columbans.ie/tag/eec-council-of-ministers/)
- [Brussels](https://columbans.ie/tag/brussels/)
- [Charismatic Renewal Movement](https://columbans.ie/tag/charismatic-renewal-movement/)
- [Holy Cross College Clonliffe](https://columbans.ie/tag/holy-cross-college-clonliffe/)
- [Trinity College](https://columbans.ie/tag/trinity-college/)
- [Iquique](https://columbans.ie/tag/iquique/)
- [Pilgrim for Christ](https://columbans.ie/tag/pilgrim-for-christ/)
- [Ellen Teague](https://columbans.ie/tag/ellen-teague/)
- [Columban JPIC](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-jpic/)
- [Industrial Revolution](https://columbans.ie/tag/industrial-revolution/)
- [ecological conversion](https://columbans.ie/tag/ecological-conversion/)
- [Anthropocene](https://columbans.ie/tag/anthropocene/)
- [environmental refugees](https://columbans.ie/tag/environmental-refugees/)
- [Jair Bolsonaro](https://columbans.ie/tag/jair-bolsonaro/)
- [Joenia Wapichana](https://columbans.ie/tag/joenia-wapichana/)
- [Brazil](https://columbans.ie/tag/brazil/)
- [Columban Lay Missionaries](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-lay-missionaries/)
- [HIV/AIDS](https://columbans.ie/tag/hiv-aids/)
- [St Colman’s College](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-colmans-college/)
- [Fermoy](https://columbans.ie/tag/fermoy/)
- [Fr Patrick ('Paddy') Hurley](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-patrick-paddy-hurley/)
- [Columban Sister](https://columbans.ie/tag/columban-sister/)
- [Cauayan](https://columbans.ie/tag/cauayan/)
- [Kabankalan](https://columbans.ie/tag/kabankalan/)
- [Presentation Sisters](https://columbans.ie/tag/presentation-sisters/)
- [Fr Eamon Sheridan](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-eamon-sheridan/)
- [Addiction](https://columbans.ie/tag/addiction/)
- [Recovery](https://columbans.ie/tag/recovery/)
- [crucifixion](https://columbans.ie/tag/crucifixion/)
- [Fr Noel Connolly](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-noel-connolly/)
- [Geumak parish](https://columbans.ie/tag/geumak-parish/)
- [Bishop Kang](https://columbans.ie/tag/bishop-kang/)
- [Fr Simon Im Moon Chol](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-simon-im-moon-chol/)
- [Hallim Parish](https://columbans.ie/tag/hallim-parish/)
- [Irish Embassy in Korea](https://columbans.ie/tag/irish-embassy-in-korea/)
- [Fr Michael Riordan](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-michael-riordan/)
- [drug trafficking](https://columbans.ie/tag/drug-trafficking/)
- [arms smuggling](https://columbans.ie/tag/arms-smuggling/)
- [Republic Act 7610](https://columbans.ie/tag/republic-act-7610/)
- [child protection](https://columbans.ie/tag/child-protection/)
- [Notre Dame Cathedral](https://columbans.ie/tag/notre-dame-cathedral/)
- [UNICEF](https://columbans.ie/tag/unicef/)
- [sex trade](https://columbans.ie/tag/sex-trade/)
- [Mauro Steffenini](https://columbans.ie/tag/mauro-steffenini/)
- [Cllr Suzanne Jamal](https://columbans.ie/tag/cllr-suzanne-jamal/)
- [Kevin Sheerin](https://columbans.ie/tag/kevin-sheerin/)
- [Lay Missionary Central Leadership Team](https://columbans.ie/tag/lay-missionary-central-leadership-team/)
- [United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)](https://columbans.ie/tag/united-nations-intergovernmental-panel-on-climate-change-ipcc/)
- [Coastal erosion](https://columbans.ie/tag/coastal-erosion/)
- [Donald Trump](https://columbans.ie/tag/donald-trump/)
- [Department of Communications](https://columbans.ie/tag/department-of-communications/)
- [Climate Action and Environment](https://columbans.ie/tag/climate-action-and-environment/)
- [carbon tax](https://columbans.ie/tag/carbon-tax/)
- [Climate justice](https://columbans.ie/tag/climate-justice/)
- [Racism](https://columbans.ie/tag/racism/)
- [Fr Bobby Gilmore](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-bobby-gilmore/)
- [Prince Harry](https://columbans.ie/tag/prince-harry/)
- [Meghan Markle](https://columbans.ie/tag/meghan-markle/)
- [Belgium](https://columbans.ie/tag/belgium/)
- [Jews](https://columbans.ie/tag/jews/)
- [The Guardian](https://columbans.ie/tag/the-guardian/)
- [Ariella Woitchik](https://columbans.ie/tag/ariella-woitchik/)
- [European Jewish Congress](https://columbans.ie/tag/european-jewish-congress/)
- [kippa](https://columbans.ie/tag/kippa/)
- [Roma](https://columbans.ie/tag/roma/)
- [Nazi Germany](https://columbans.ie/tag/nazi-germany/)
- [Naomi Klein](https://columbans.ie/tag/naomi-klein/)
- [cross-cultural mission](https://columbans.ie/tag/cross-cultural-mission/)
- [Global Assessment Report](https://columbans.ie/tag/global-assessment-report/)
- [Mexico](https://columbans.ie/tag/mexico/)
- [amphibians](https://columbans.ie/tag/amphibians/)
- [greenhouse gas emissions](https://columbans.ie/tag/greenhouse-gas-emissions/)
- [coral reefs](https://columbans.ie/tag/coral-reefs/)
- [marine mammals](https://columbans.ie/tag/marine-mammals/)
- [Ballymun](https://columbans.ie/tag/ballymun/)
- [St Pappin’s parish centre](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-pappins-parish-centre/)
- [St Joseph’s Balcurris](https://columbans.ie/tag/st-josephs-balcurris/)
- [Fr Ciarán Enright](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-ciaran-enright/)
- [Fr Donie Hogan](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-donie-hogan/)
- [Fr Jack Chute](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-jack-chute/)
- [Amazonia Synod](https://columbans.ie/tag/amazonia-synod/)
- [Fr Peter Toohey](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-peter-toohey/)
- [Australia](https://columbans.ie/tag/australia/)
- [Australian Aboriginal People](https://columbans.ie/tag/australian-aboriginal-people/)
- [Wongi](https://columbans.ie/tag/wongi/)
- [Noongar](https://columbans.ie/tag/noongar/)
- [Yamatji](https://columbans.ie/tag/yamatji/)
- [ULURU STATEMENT](https://columbans.ie/tag/uluru-statement/)
- [Fred Chaney](https://columbans.ie/tag/fred-chaney/)
- [Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islands Committee](https://columbans.ie/tag/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islands-committee/)
- [Treaty of Waitangi](https://columbans.ie/tag/treaty-of-waitangi/)
- [Lorna Gold](https://columbans.ie/tag/lorna-gold/)
- [#FridaysforFuture](https://columbans.ie/tag/fridaysforfuture/)
- [North Korea](https://columbans.ie/tag/north-korea/)
- [Ger Clarke](https://columbans.ie/tag/ger-clarke/)
- [Dr Lorna Gold](https://columbans.ie/tag/dr-lorna-gold/)
- [Global Catholic Climate Movement](https://columbans.ie/tag/global-catholic-climate-movement/)
- [Advisory Group on the National Climate Dialogue](https://columbans.ie/tag/advisory-group-on-the-national-climate-dialogue/)
- [CO2 emissions](https://columbans.ie/tag/co2-emissions/)
- [Fr James Fitzpatrick](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-james-fitzpatrick/)
- [Newry](https://columbans.ie/tag/newry/)
- [Bhamo](https://columbans.ie/tag/bhamo/)
- [Panghkak](https://columbans.ie/tag/panghkak/)
- [Monsignor Patrick Usher](https://columbans.ie/tag/monsignor-patrick-usher/)
- [Thomas Rillstone](https://columbans.ie/tag/thomas-rillstone/)
- [Fr Davy Wall](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-davy-wall/)
- [Kachin Independence Army](https://columbans.ie/tag/kachin-independence-army/)
- [Liam O'Callaghan ssc](https://columbans.ie/tag/liam-ocallaghan-ssc/)
- [Fr John Boles](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-john-boles/)
- [South America](https://columbans.ie/tag/south-america/)
- [Connemara](https://columbans.ie/tag/connemara/)
- [Gregorian University](https://columbans.ie/tag/gregorian-university/)
- [Milton Major Seminary](https://columbans.ie/tag/milton-major-seminary/)
- [Turramurra Major Seminary](https://columbans.ie/tag/turramurra-major-seminary/)
- [Baguio](https://columbans.ie/tag/baguio/)
- [AITECE](https://columbans.ie/tag/aitece/)
- [Fr Gerard Neylon](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-gerard-neylon/)
- [Fr Thomas Yu](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-thomas-yu/)
- [Bishop Cleary](https://columbans.ie/tag/bishop-cleary/)
- [Nanfeng](https://columbans.ie/tag/nanfeng/)
- [Nancheng](https://columbans.ie/tag/nancheng/)
- [Neptali Morada](https://columbans.ie/tag/neptali-morada/)
- [Naga city](https://columbans.ie/tag/naga-city/)
- [United Evangelical Church of Christ](https://columbans.ie/tag/united-evangelical-church-of-christ/)
- [Student Christian Movement](https://columbans.ie/tag/student-christian-movement/)
- [Federation of Christian Youth](https://columbans.ie/tag/federation-of-christian-youth/)
- [Nardy Sabino](https://columbans.ie/tag/nardy-sabino/)
- [Daniel Kenji Muramatsu](https://columbans.ie/tag/daniel-kenji-muramatsu/)
- [Ryan Hubilla](https://columbans.ie/tag/ryan-hubilla/)
- [Nelly Bagasala](https://columbans.ie/tag/nelly-bagasala/)
- [Nonoy Palma](https://columbans.ie/tag/nonoy-palma/)
- [Dennis Sequena](https://columbans.ie/tag/dennis-sequena/)
- [Migrants Rights Centre Ireland](https://columbans.ie/tag/migrants-rights-centre-ireland/)
- [Scoop Foundation](https://columbans.ie/tag/scoop-foundation/)
- [Oscar Martinez](https://columbans.ie/tag/oscar-martinez/)
- [Rio Grande](https://columbans.ie/tag/rio-grande/)
- [immigration](https://columbans.ie/tag/immigration/)
- [Alan Kurdi](https://columbans.ie/tag/alan-kurdi/)
- [Berlin Wall](https://columbans.ie/tag/berlin-wall/)
- [Soviet Union](https://columbans.ie/tag/soviet-union/)
- [Jacques Delors](https://columbans.ie/tag/jacques-delors/)
- [International Monetary Fund](https://columbans.ie/tag/international-monetary-fund/)
- [World Bank](https://columbans.ie/tag/world-bank/)
- [Fr Rufus Halley](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-rufus-halley/)
- [Fr Des Hartford](https://columbans.ie/tag/fr-des-hartford/)
- [Jean Harrington](https://columbans.ie/tag/jean-harrington/)
- [Joe Little](https://columbans.ie/tag/joe-little/)
- [RTÉ](https://columbans.ie/tag/rte/)
- [Mercier Press](https://columbans.ie/tag/mercier-press/)
- [Marawi](https://columbans.ie/tag/marawi/)
- [‘Murder in the Missions’](https://columbans.ie/tag/murder-in-the-missions/)
- [Inter-religious dialogue](https://columbans.ie/tag/inter-religious-dialogue/)
- [4th July](https://columbans.ie/tag/4th-july/)
- [President Donald Trump](https://columbans.ie/tag/president-donald-trump/)
- [US border](https://columbans.ie/tag/us-border/)

## Product categories

- [Far East Magazine](https://columbans.ie/product-category/far-east-magazine/)
- [Subscriptions](https://columbans.ie/product-category/subscriptions/)
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## Product tags

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- [Mission](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/mission/)
- [Vatican II](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/vatican-ii/)
- [Social justice](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/social-justice/)
- [St Columban](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/st-columban/)
- [Pilgrimage](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/pilgrimage/)
- [Pilgrim](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/pilgrim/)
- [missionary](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/missionary/)
- [Niall O’Brien](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/niall-obrien/)
- [Columban](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/columban/)
- [Philippines](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/philippines/)
- [Negros Nine](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/negros-nine/)
- [non-violent protest](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/non-violent-protest/)
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- [Communism](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/communism/)
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- [Laudato Si](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/laudato-si/)
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- [environment](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/environment/)
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- [climate change](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/climate-change/)
- [Fiji](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/fiji/)
- [Columban Missionaries](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/columban-missionaries/)
- [missionaries](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/missionaries/)
- [coup](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/coup/)
- [parishes](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/parishes/)
- [schools](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/schools/)
- [renewal](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/renewal/)
- [Care for the Earth](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/care-for-the-earth/)
- [Sean McDonagh](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/sean-mcdonagh/)
- [eco theologian](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/eco-theologian/)
- [Fr Rufus Halley](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/fr-rufus-halley/)
- [Fr Des Hartford](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/fr-des-hartford/)
- [Mindanao](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/mindanao/)
- [Moro National Liberation Front](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/moro-national-liberation-front/)
- [Subanen community](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/subanen-community/)
- [Subanen crafts](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/subanen-crafts/)
- [Fr Vincent Busch](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/fr-vincent-busch/)
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- [Fr Pat Sayles](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/fr-pat-sayles/)
- [Prayer](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/prayer/)
- [Fr Niall O'Brien](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/fr-niall-obrien/)
- [Fr Michael Martin](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/fr-michael-martin/)
- [Fr Brian Gore](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/fr-brian-gore/)
- [Fr Vicente Dangan](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/fr-vicente-dangan/)
- [Marcos regime](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/marcos-regime/)
- [President Ronald Reagan](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/president-ronald-reagan/)
- [People Power revolution](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/people-power-revolution/)
- [Isidore](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/isidore/)
- [Jeju Island](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/jeju-island/)
- [Fr Pj McGlinchey](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/fr-pj-mcglinchey/)
- [Korea](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/korea/)
- [Hallim](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/hallim/)
- [Hallim Knitwear factory](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/hallim-knitwear-factory/)
- [The Prayer Trust](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/the-prayer-trust/)
- [Peru](https://columbans.ie/product-tag/peru/)