Give Mass a try, you won’t be disappointed – Bishop Leahy

Tuesday 16 December 2025:  Bishop of Limerick Brendan Leahy has urged Mass goers returning to celebrations this Christmas to think about making “a more regular appointment”.

Speaking ahead of Christmas celebrations, Bishop Leahy said that if people persevere, they will find that Mass is rewarding, but they will only get from it if they give to it.

Some 20,000 attend Mass across Limerick Diocese each week, with 2,000 doing so daily, he said.  And while it may not be the most “lively” of places in today’s world, the sense of peace and strength that people get is more than enough for most. It nourishes our soul.

And Bishop Leahy made a special appeal to young people, more of whom are being seen back recently at Church, telling them “we need you”.

“As clergy, we look out with great joy when we see our Churches full. It’s always heartening to see people gather, whether it’s in your home with visitors, at matches or, indeed, at Church. There are, of course, times of the year when our Churches fill more than others such as Easter and, of course, Christmas.

“The reality is that the great sense of community, of family and of peace that we get at Christmas is there for us every other day of the year also. At Christmas, it is extra special, of course, because we celebrate the birth of Christ, the Churches are festooned with decorations, we all make an extra effort.

“But that’s what is really different about Christmas. We make an extra effort. We give more to Mass and we get more in return. We concentrate on the meaning. But what if we gave the same to other Sunday or week-day Masses? The answer is that we will also receive. 

“Mass has always held a special place in the lives of people throughout the generations. Why? Apart from how good or otherwise it might feel, going to Mass reminds you that you’re not on your own, that God is with you and that other people are praying with and for you.”

Referring to the Irish Bishops recent letter ‘Why Sunday Matters’, which is available on-line, Mass, Bishop Leahy said, provides us with deep roots that give stability, especially when storms blow in our lives.  The Mass, after all, contains the whole spiritual treasure of the Church, he said.

“My own experience is that many people have turned to Mass when they’ve had turmoil in their lives and each and everyone gets solace. That’s because they put a lot into it. They come with intent. They are seeking and they find. So, that really is the message. Mass offers so much but you have to give to it to get from it,” he continued.

Addressing young people, Bishop Leahy said, “In a special way, a word to young people. We need you! You bring us enthusiasm and liveliness. We know we’re not always the most lively of places today, but we have noticed young adults beginning to rediscover the value of Mass. So, we say to others, why not give it a try. And not just once or twice. Persevere and you’ll see it’s worth it.

“So, if you feel it’s special at Christmas, don’t think that’s just it. There might not be the same parade of new jackets and coats on other days, children might not be as excited but it’s the same Church, the same sense of level of peace and strength if you seek it.”

Ends