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
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
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
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
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
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
As the United Kingdom was mourning the passing of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and many gun salutes were being fired to mark this occasion, I found myself wondering what the Irish Defence Forces did with regard to … Continue reading Minister for Defence confirms that Irish Defence Forces no longer have “gun salute to the Most Blessed Sacrament”
We all know the feeling, we all hear the familiar words of disbelief that such and such an event happened so long ago. On this day, 28 years ago, the Provisional IRA blew up two bombs in the town centre of Warrington in Merseyside. Those of us who grew up in the North of Ireland, during what is so euphemistically referred to as “The Troubles”, grew somewhat immune to all the bad news. Even in recent years, I found myself not reacting as others around me did when a member of An Garda Síochána was murdered. I reacted with, Oh! … Continue reading Normal is always relative
During both world wars, the men and women of the Commonwealth made the ultimate sacrifice. This Commonwealth Day, Monday 8th March, take the opportunity to remember those who fought and died for peace across the world. Make your own act of remembrance by leaving a physical tribute at one of their cemeteries or memorials in your local area. The CWGC tribute will let you leave a personalised, environmentally friendly message at the headstone or memorial of someone you’d like to remember. It is 100% biodegradable and compostable and its design reflects the six Commonwealth member nations who fund our work. … Continue reading Commonwealth War Graves Commission invites you to pay a tribute this Commonwealth Day
Sts Kyneburga, Kyneswide, and Tibba OSB Kyneburga and Kyneswide were the daughters of Penda of Mercia, famous for his fierce opposition to Christianity. Kyneburga became abbess of Castor in Northamptonshire and was succeeded by Kyneswide. Tibba was their cousin who … Continue reading Martyrology: 6th March
Gyronny Herald 