Work is officially underway on the new community garden at St Oliver's Church in Ballyvolane, with members of the local community coming together on Monday, 2nd November, to begin creating a wildlife pond.
The community meitheal, guided by Feidhlim Harty and supported by Cork City Partnership, saw volunteers roll up their sleeves and take the first steps towards transforming the church grounds into a welcoming green space.
As part of the Laudato Si’ initiative and our commitment to caring for our common home, the project aims to encourage biodiversity, support local wildlife and create a space for the wider community to enjoy.
It was wonderful to see so many people getting involved, and we look forward to seeing the garden continue to take shape over the coming months.
A sincere thank you to everyone who gave their time and effort to help get this exciting community project underway.
Works underway at St Olivers Church 2
The Dioceses of Cloyne, Cork and Ross, and Waterford and Lismore invite parish communities to Raising Hope – Caring for Our Common Home Together, a Laudato Si’ conference taking place on Saturday, 21st November 2026, at the Clayton Hotel Silver Springs, Cork.
Inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, the conference will explore how we can respond to today's environmental challenges and work together to care for our common home.
The day will bring together speakers, parish representatives and community members for meaningful discussions, practical workshops and opportunities to share ideas on protecting God's creation.
Conference Details:
Time: 10am – 4pm
Venue: Clayton Hotel Silver Springs, Tivoli, Cork
Speakers and Workshops:
The morning programme will feature Bishop Martin Hayes, Irish Catholic Bishops’ Laudato Si’ Coordinator; Sr Colette Kane OP, who has extensive experience in ecology and spirituality; and Barry O’Loughlin, Biodiversity Officer with Clare County Council.
Afternoon workshops will explore ecological spirituality, supporting biodiversity on parish grounds, transitioning away from fossil fuels and the Eco-Parish Award.
The conference offers a valuable opportunity for individuals and parish communities to discover practical ways to make a positive environmental impact.
Raising Hope Conference Flyer
There was no winner of the main Jackpot or the Consolation Jackpot this week. Prize Fund for the main Jackpot next Tuesday is €11,200. The Consolation Jackpot will be €925.
Cork Cathedral Family of Parishes LottoIt could be you! Why not buy a ticket and you know that by buying a ticket you are supporting our work here in the parish.
You can watch the draw on our Facebook Page
Tickets are available online here Cork Cathedral Family of Parishes Lotto on and on our Facebook Page
The conference will explore how parishes and communities can respond to the Cry of the Earth at this time, with a focus on practical initiatives, eco-spirituality and ways we can care for our common home together.
The event is supported by the Laudato Si' Movement and Trócaire.
More information will follow in the coming weeks.
Raising Hope Conference November 21st 2026
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