Faith Facts

• Both marriage and fertility rates in Ireland have fallen sharply since 2004, reaching historic lows in 2024.
• The average age for first-time mothers in Ireland is now 33, the highest in Europe.
• Divorce rates are at an all-time high, while large families and early marriages are increasingly rare.

The Iona Institute has raised concerns about the direction Ireland is heading, highlighting the decline in foundational family values.

Statistics from Ireland’s Central Statistics Office reveal a steady drop in both marriage and fertility rates over the past two decades.

Breda O’Brien from The Iona Institute stated:

“The fact that our marriage rate and fertility rate are now at the lowest levels ever recorded ought to ring alarm bells.

Getting married and having children used to be very normal milestones in life that almost everyone could be expected to reach if they wanted.

But now it seems they are going out of reach for many, something partly connected with the rising cost of living, and in a vital way, to the lack of job security and housing experienced by so many young people.”

She noted that economic and social pressures are making it harder for young people to start families and build stable, God-honoring homes.

“The more economic and social circumstances make people delay marrying and having children, the less likely they are to ever marry and have children. This means a lot of personal heartache and disappointment.

Once the problem might have been having more children than you wanted, but now there is a growing problem of having fewer than you want. This is what is called ‘unplanned childlessness’. As a society, we seriously need to debate what is happening and what can be done to change our course.”

Protecting the institution of marriage and encouraging strong families are vital to ensuring a faithful, flourishing Ireland for generations to come.

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In a landmark decision that resonates with the core values of faith, family, and freedom, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that states possess the authority to exclude Planned Parenthood from their Medicaid programs. This ruling reverses a previous appeals court decision and supports South Carolina’s efforts to defund the nation’s largest abortion provider, marking a significant victory for pro-life advocates and those who champion the sanctity of life.

The Supreme Court’s decision in Medina v. Planned Parenthood is a testament to the enduring principles of states’ rights and individual responsibility. Justice Neil Gorsuch, writing for the majority in a 6-3 ruling, emphasized the distinction between mere benefits and enforceable rights. He noted, “To prove that a statute secures an enforceable right, privilege, or immunity, and does not just provide a benefit or protect an interest, a plaintiff must show that the law in question ‘clear[ly] and unambiguous[ly]’ uses ‘rights-creating terms.'”

This decision underscores the importance of allowing states to exercise their discretion in matters that align with their moral and ethical values. The ruling affirms that federal law does not prevent states like South Carolina from making decisions that reflect the will of their people, particularly in matters as critical as the protection of unborn life.

Chief Justice John Roberts and Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett joined Gorsuch in the majority opinion, reinforcing a commitment to uphold traditional values and the principles upon which this nation was founded. The court’s decision is a clear message that states have the right to prioritize life-affirming policies and support organizations that align with these values.

In contrast, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s dissent, joined by Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, argued that the Medicaid Act’s free-choice-of-provider provision creates an enforceable right. However, this perspective fails to recognize the broader implications of allowing states to govern in accordance with their constituents’ values and the importance of protecting the most vulnerable among us.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster’s 2018 directive to end Medicaid agreements with abortion providers was a bold step in affirming the state’s commitment to life. Despite legal challenges, the Supreme Court’s ruling now empowers states to make decisions that reflect their citizens’ values without federal interference.

This decision is not just a victory for South Carolina but for all states seeking to uphold the sanctity of life and the principles of faith and freedom. It reinforces the notion that states can choose to support healthcare providers that align with their moral convictions, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used in ways that honor life and uphold traditional values.

As we celebrate this victory, let us continue to advocate for policies that protect life, strengthen families, and promote freedom. This ruling is a reminder that our nation’s founding principles remain strong and that, with faith and perseverance, we can continue to shape a society that honors and respects the dignity of every human life.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

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As the 10th anniversary of the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges decision approaches, a recent Gallup survey reveals a notable shift in the landscape of American public opinion regarding same-sex marriage. This Supreme Court ruling, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, has been a point of contention, particularly among those who hold fast to traditional values and biblical principles.

The survey, conducted with 1,003 American adults, highlights a significant divergence in perspectives across political lines. While overall support for same-sex marriage remains at 68%, a slight decrease from previous years, the divide between Democrats and Republicans has grown more pronounced. Among Democrats, support has reached a record high of 88%, reflecting a stark contrast to the 41% approval rate among Republicans. This marks a decline for the third consecutive year among Republicans, down from a peak of 55% in 2021 and 2022.

This trend among Republicans underscores a broader commitment to upholding traditional family values and the sanctity of marriage as defined by Scripture. It is a testament to the enduring belief in the biblical design of marriage as a union between one man and one woman. For many conservatives, this is not merely a political stance but a deeply held conviction rooted in faith and moral clarity.

The survey also reveals that weekly churchgoers, a group often aligned with conservative values, show limited support for same-sex marriage, with only 33% in favor. Furthermore, just 24% of weekly churchgoers believe that same-sex relations are morally acceptable. This highlights the critical role that faith communities play in shaping moral perspectives and guiding societal norms.

In contrast, support for same-sex marriage is highest among those who seldom attend church, younger adults, and college graduates. This disparity points to a cultural shift that places a premium on secular values over time-honored religious teachings. It raises important questions about the direction of our nation and the potential erosion of foundational principles that have long underpinned American society.

For those who prioritize faith, family, and freedom, these findings serve as a call to action. It is imperative to continue advocating for policies that reflect Christian values and to engage in meaningful dialogue that emphasizes the importance of preserving the moral fabric of our nation. As we approach this anniversary, let us reaffirm our commitment to principles that honor God and strengthen the American family.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

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