Spring symbolises new beginnings and transformations. It brings the possibility of fresh starts, of new life. Most of us acquire an added spring in our step and become “full of the joys of Spring.” We are told that “Hope springs eternal” and this happens particularly, when warm winds sooth our weary bones and long sunny days, blooming flowers and happy ...

“For last year’s words belong to last year’s language.  And next year’s words await another voice.”    (TS Eliot) As we bid farewell to an old year and welcome 2024, we move into a space of thanksgiving, reflection, hope, possibility, and expectation. And while new year resolution may often evoke a bad press for encouraging unrealistic goals and placing unnecessary pressure, ...

January is the quietest month in the garden… But just because it looks quiet doesn’t mean that nothing is happening. Every gardener knows that under the cloak of winter lies a miracle… A seed waiting to sprout, a bulb opening to the light, a bud straining to unfurl.  And the anticipation nurtures our dreams. Barbara Winkler (www. A-Mused Winter Collage, ...

In North America just recently and in Canada last month, the people celebrated Thanksgiving. I have always envied these countries for this time of family celebration and giving thanks for all that has been over the year and to look forward in hope for what the New Year might bring – not only by way of a healthy harvest, but ...

“Just Passing Through” by Sr Mary Frances Collett, RNDM During my regular walks in the very beautiful cemetery of Houston where my parish church of St.Fillan’s is situated, I am always drawn to one particular grave. There is a photograph of a young man standing with his bicycle. Underneath is inscribed the words: “I will just gather my bits and ...

Remembering and cherishing what we have had. Already we can see the end of the year fast approaching. Many say, “Where has this year gone, already we are facing a long winter?” “This year has just simply flown by!” All those lovely summer months and extended warm days have simply gone and now just a passed memory. Yet, certain things ...

 The glories of Mary have been enshrined in the heart of the Church; she is part of scripture and of the liturgy. She has been honoured in Arts, Poetry and Song; she holds a secure place in the hearts of the faithful; she is the greatest of all saints, the sinless one born without original sin and indeed free from ...

It had been a day of interacting with many people and I felt the need to withdraw to a wordless place!  It was springtime and I walked down the bóithrin - bohereen, (unpaved rural road in Ireland). There was a soothing silence, a calm just to ‘be’ in the moment, to inhale the fresh breezes, and breathe the rugged beauty ...

As our global world 2022, stands at a crossroads, March and April are welcoming months with all their beauty, new life and renewed vision. Earth’s soul is  pulsating, ready to display new energy as it shifts the long, dark, bleak days of winter COVID 19.  As Lent continues, we step back and dare to face difficult questions, glaring injustices and ...

At the time of writing these reflections, the end of Lent is fast approaching. Lent: a gifted time when we can offer God “something very private but also something life-enhancing, helping to draw us even closer to our blessed Lord.” [Father J.B. Hurley]   Yes, life-enhancing—a beautiful word, full of life and meaning. Then on the 3rd Sunday of Lent the ...