Wednesday October 7th 2009

Eileen O' Brien is from north county Dublin, lives in Co. Cavan and is married to David. A former full time member of the retreat team at Manresa,the Jesuit retreat centre, Eileen worked as a secondary school teacher in the North of Ireland and was a Prayer Guide at Knock Shrine, Co. Mayo. Returning to formal studies in 2003, she was awarded a Masters Degree in spirituality from the Milltown Institute of Theology and Philosophy.

Eileen is also a qualified Spiritual Director and assists with directed retreats as well as giving courses in adult religious education. An open and gentle spirit enables her to assist people with their prayer and spiritual progress - she is a very popular and much loved bearer of the Good News of God's compassion and grace. We are sure that you will find her evening both challenging and reassuring - "prayer is already begun in you".

Wednesday Night Oct 14th 2009

Fr. John Littleton is a very well known priest, both here and in the U.K. As former President of the National Conference of Priests of Ireland, he is often called on to comment or a offer a view on current issues concerning the churches here. He is Head of Distance Education - for a programme in theology studied by lay people in their homes through the distant learning method. Adult learners from all over the country are currently involved in this programme. It is possible to obtain a Certificate or a Diploma and even a Degree in theology through The Priory Institute.

A priest of the Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly, Fr. John is in constant demand as a retreat leader, preacher of missions, novenas and days of prayer. He writes weekly columns for several newspapers and has published three books on theology and Roman Catholicism in the 21st century. His main area of expertise lies in the study of the Scriptures. A man of wisdom and great humour, we are delighted to have him to lead the third evening of our course.

Wednesday Night Oct 21st 2009

Christine Clear has a background in philosophy, spirituality and media studies. A graduate of Trinity College Dublin and Milltown Institute, Sandford Rd., Christine is currently co-ordinator of an initiative of the Carmelite order, in Clarendon St., known as the Living Room. People are welcome to drop in during the daytime to find a quiet space for breathing, reflection or to chat about the part spirituality plays in their lives. People of all faiths and none find an open door and a warm welcome there.

Christine has been involved in retreat work with teenagers at The Retreat and Conference Centre in Tallaght and as an educator and facilitator for adult education programmes and courses. She taught spirituality in Belvedere College and at Milltown Institute, and is in great demand as a speaker and a commentator on current issues and interests in the wider area of spirituality in the Ireland of today. Everyone attending or taking part in her courses speak of her warmth and friendliness and we know that we will gain much from Christine's contribution to our evenings in the Parish Centre in Blessington.