Donations for cemetery sunday collection can be made here

With deep joy and heartfelt gratitude to the Holy Spirit, I warmly welcome the news of the election of Pope Leo XIV.

The people of the Diocese of Ferns join with the universal Church in prayerful thanksgiving for the gift of new papal leadership. We ask God to bless Pope Leo XIV with wisdom, courage, and compassion as he begins his sacred ministry as successor to St. Peter.

This moment also offers us an opportunity to reflect with appreciation on the long, rich, and valued history of the Augustinian Order within our diocese. The Augustinians have faithfully served the people of Ferns for generations, contributing profoundly to the spiritual life and pastoral mission of our Church. Their presence continues to bear fruit in the lives of many through prayer, education, and pastoral care particularly with the presence of Good Counsel College in New Ross which has been a rich source of learning in our diocese. As we look to the future under the guidance of Pope Leo XIV, we renew our commitment to walk together in faith, drawing inspiration from the emerging synodal church and the enduring witness of so many clergy, religious and lay people whose dedication strengthens the life of our diocese.

May the Lord bless Pope Leo XIV and all who serve His Church in love and fidelity.

+Ger Nash

Conor came to blood donation late in life after finishing playing sport. He feels it is something people can get into at any stage in their life, even if they gave previously and stopped, or simply just got out of the habit. Conor likes to keep healthy and believes blood donation contributes to that physically and mentally, with the feel-good factor not to be underestimated, when you are helping someone.

Conor feels the ‘ordinariness’ of giving blood sometimes works against getting more donors. He feels donors should talk more about the difference their efforts make, and thinks other people would make the extra effort to attend a clinic, if they really knew how giving blood can save so many lives; for example, 67% of donated blood is used to help fight cancer, and these treatments could not happen if blood were not available

New donors, or returning donors (5 years since last donation) are required to call 1800 731 137 to make their first appointment to give blood.
Prior to calling us, we recommend you review the ‘New Donor Eligibility Quiz’ to check if there are any reasons you might not be able to donate.
If eligible to donate, new or returning donors can check if there are upcoming clinics in their area on our ‘Clinic Finder’, and can then call to make an appointment. Further details www.giveblood.ie