Not All Royal Money Is the Same
Not all royal money is the same. Discover why the latest NAO report sparks misdirected outrage—and where the real transparency crisis lies at Royal Lodge. Continue reading Not All Royal Money Is the Same
Author: Michael McFarland Campbell
Neurodivergent liturgical writer, organist, and storyteller exploring the sacred in everyday life, shaped by chronic illness, care, and Benedictine spirituality.
A Year of Faith, Creativity, and Community
As Christmas returns and the light of the Incarnate Word breaks once more into our winter darkness, I find myself reflecting on a year shaped by grace, perseverance, and the quiet work of God in unexpected places. Life in Monasterevin … Continue reading A Year of Faith, Creativity, and Community
Lift. Aim. Wipe. Repeat.
Breaking News from the Bathroom Front
Apparently, lifting a toilet seat is harder than quantum physics. Aiming? Forget it. Cleaning up? A mythical concept. Stay tuned for the rant you didn’t know you needed… Continue reading Lift. Aim. Wipe. Repeat.
Grá agus Cuimhne: Honour and Hope in Ireland
On the 11th of November, Ireland stood at a crossroads of memory and momentum. As the nation bowed its head in solemn remembrance for Armistice Day, it also raised its eyes to the future with the inauguration of President Catherine Connolly. From poppy wreaths to presidential oaths, this day marked both reflection and renewal.
Read on for a look at how Ireland honoured the past and embraced a new chapter — all in one historic day. Continue reading Grá agus Cuimhne: Honour and Hope in Ireland
God Has No Country: A Pilgrim’s Journey Through Kerry by Rail
From Monasterevin to Killarney by rail, this pilgrimage blended history, faith, and quiet heroism. With my Kerry Camino stamp and ties to the Order of St John, I honoured Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty’s legacy—proof that God Has No Country, and true journeys are measured not in miles, but in meaning. Continue reading God Has No Country: A Pilgrim’s Journey Through Kerry by Rail
A Delightful Dublin Discovery: Tea and Toast at The Pepper Pot
Tucked away in Dublin’s elegant Powerscourt Townhouse, The Pepper Pot cafe was a true find. My Earl Grey arrived in a charming cup and saucer, making tea time feel special. While the scrambled eggs initially had unlisted chives, the staff swiftly remade them perfectly. This cozy spot offers delightful food and lovely service – a real Dublin gem! Continue reading A Delightful Dublin Discovery: Tea and Toast at The Pepper Pot
Meandering with purpose in Ireland’s confederate capital
We have been very busy in the last few weeks. Yesterday was no different. We got up very early (for us) and caught the seven minutes past seven train from Monasterevin to Kildare, waited there and then got the train … Continue reading Meandering with purpose in Ireland’s confederate capital
Rewriting history
Since I moved to the Republic of Ireland in 2015, I have noticed that in many occasions history is rewritten obliterating the time when this country was part of the United Kingdom, when Irish people were citizens of the UK as well. The Irish railway company, Iarnród Éireann has a number of history boards at its stations. The one at my local one makes reference to Willoughby Hamilton becoming the First Irishman (and the first non-British player) to win the Men’s Singles at Wimbledon Past Tracks Monasterevin station This competition was in 1890. At that point in history Ireland was … Continue reading Rewriting history
Photo: Workmen on Monasterevin Bridge
Workmen on Monasterevin Bridge, Co. Kildare, Ireland. © 2022 M J P B McFarland Campbell I was out for a walk at lunchtime today and took this photo of Monasterevin Bridge over the River Barrow. I always enjoy taking photos that aren’t “perfect” but show the landscape as it is in the moment. Having the workmen on the bridge makes the photograph for me. Continue reading Photo: Workmen on Monasterevin Bridge
Support Mick and Michelle Cardiff
As many of my readers will know, I have been involved with St John Ambulance since my days living in Gibraltar. During that time, I have been fortunate to receive high-quality instruction from many volunteers within the wider St John … Continue reading Support Mick and Michelle Cardiff
Gyronny Herald 