AS WE begin the first of two consecutive long weekends — the first to celebrate our national day, the second to mark one of Christianity’s central beliefs — it’s as good a time as any to acknowledge and celebrate some of the good things about living in Ireland and being Irish.

SHE lived for her kids — her kids were her life.

IF the Catholic bishops feel discouraged by last week’s Prime Time survey, which shows that only 50% of the population now attends mass each week, they should remember that the Catholic church faces bigger challenges elsewhere.