That culture was challenged in the 1960’s with the arrival of Sean Lemass, TK Whitaker, television, and free education in 1967. Meanwhile, the Second Vatican Council took place, and while Ireland was changing, the Church in Ireland didn’t really change. To say faith was shallow was proved by the fact that Church values and rituals have been abandoned so speedily.  We said prayers, but there was little reflective or contemplative prayer. So, while Ireland was re-inventing itself socially and economically, the Church didn’t respond.

Currently, modern Ireland is examining itself and question it’s values – look at the questions raised by the pandemic.

The model that Cardinal Cullen brought to us is defunct now. Can we Church people proclaim and witness to the Gospel in a way that will be found meaningful to the people of today?