Monday, 11 May 2026: Bishop of Limerick Brendan Leahy has urged young people today to take the example of the inspirational late teenager Donal Walsh by looking into their hearts for peace and away from their phones.
Speaking today on the eve of the anniversary of the celebrated teenager, who talked openly about appreciating life, Bishop Leahy said that if the young Kerryman were with us today, he would no doubt be outspoken about the risk from overuse of social media.
Bishop Leahy also travelled to Knock for a special remembrance Mass last week for Donal Walsh attended by 3,000 young people from across Ireland, including groups of students from five Limerick schools.
“Donal’s message remains as relevant today as ever: we only have one life, and it is worth living well,” Bishop Leahy said today. “He would urge us to focus on the positives in our lives, to step away from negativity, and especially to be mindful of the harmful effects of excessive social media use.”
He continued, “While social media can connect us, it can also isolate and damage self-esteem. We must be attentive to how we use it but also prioritise offline, meaningful connections, especially within our families, which should always be our safest space.”
Bishop Leahy encouraged families to take simple but meaningful steps, such as spending time together without phones, sharing meals, and engaging in activities that strengthen relationships and wellbeing.
Reflecting on Donal’s remarkable perspective on life, Bishop Leahy recalled how, even when facing terminal illness, Donal spoke about the beauty of everyday moments — acts of kindness, friendship, nature, sport and music.
“He encouraged us to notice the small things and to reflect on them each day,” Bishop Leahy said. “In doing so, we become more aware not only of the good around us, but also of the ways we can help others.”
Drawing on the Gospel message, Bishop Leahy noted that Donal’s life exemplified a simple but profound truth: that caring for others — offering kindness, support, and friendship — is at the heart of a meaningful life.
“Each day brings countless opportunities to make a difference,” he said. “If we live with love and compassion, we are ultimately serving something greater in every person we meet.”
Bishop Leahy also recalled one of Donal Walsh’s most widely shared reflections, offering hope to those facing darkness or difficulty. “In an interview on national TV, Donal addressed young people who feel emotionally trapped with no way out. He said ‘take time and a door will open. Anyone can find their way out. They just have to ask’. That was an abiding message. There’s always someone waiting to help, no matter where you find yourself.”
Concluding, Bishop Leahy echoed a message often shared by Pope Francis — one he believes Donal Walsh would want remembered. “That message is Jesus Christ loves you; he gave his life to save you; and now he is living at your side every day to enlighten, strengthen and free you. Donal experienced this deeply,” Bishop Leahy said. “His life and witness continue to inspire us to value life, to care for one another, and to live with hope.”
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