I have worked for many years in Irish Youth Ministry and in my work I was keenly aware of how young people are bombarded on every side by a materialistic world that promotes self-satisfaction above all else. The media is constantly demanding that young people look good, adopt fashions with the latest labels and follow the example of T.V – Movie celebrities whose lives are often far from happy. The magazines available to young people also do little to challenge the greed and excesses of the world in which we live.

As we faced into a New Millennium the Word of God constantly challenged me to proclaim a Year of Favour – a new beginning for those to whom I ministered. As the focus of my ministry at that time, was directed towards young people, I was particularly conscious of them. One evening I discussed my ideas with a young woman, Katrine Sheahan, who was also involved in youth ministry and from our discussion and deliberations GATE magazine was born. We called it GATE because a gateway is always an opening to new ways and new experiences. Jesus called Himself the Gate of the Sheepfold, securing the safety of all who enter through Him. Jn 10:1-9. GATE stands for GOD AND TIME EMBRACE and our aim is to present  God alive and real in the New Millennium. Katrine became the first editor of GATE and from the year 2000 it has grown from strength to strength.

Our aim is that GATE be a literary forum providing an overview of National and International Diocesan Youth Ministry initiatives. We promote and encourage active participation in these initiatives, so enhancing opportunities for faith development in schools and parishes.

We also provide resource material complimenting current religious syllabi. This material takes the form of ‘true life’ stories and contributions from celebrities and special interest groups, and as you can see, is presented in a bold, vibrant and dynamic fashion. 

We like to comment on current topical issues from a Christian perspective and so provide a forum for young people to express their thoughts and feelings on issues that relate to them. We also provide resources for prayer services, special Masses (Beginning of School Year, Graduation, Bereavement….)and Penance Services for the Seasons of the Liturgical Calendar.

GATE’s primary purpose is to cultivate (Ezekiel 36:34) the readers understanding of belonging to a wider Christian community.

We have received very positive feedback from teachers and students alike on our publication. They find the articles extremely relevant to young people’ lives. They find the magazine a great variety in its content and it is presented in a user friendly manner.

I take this opportunity to welcome you to our web site and I pray that GATE will bring many insights and blessings to your life.

Fr Gerry