28 APRIL 2012 £2.80 www.thetablet.co.uk | Est 1840

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They committed their lives to God. They’re dedicated to the service of the poor. The Vatican says they’re laudable.

Yet now they face the wrath of Rome

Phyllis Zagano on the reprimand meted out to the nuns of America

Quench their thirst Ireland is yearning for spiritual renewal, says Daniel O’Leary On the breadline The food banks helping Britons struggling for survival Personality politics Elected mayors enhance democracy or do they boost the cult of celebrity?

PLUS PETER HENNESSY • SYLVANA TOMASELLI • JIMMY BURNS • CHRISTOPHER JAMISON • LINDA WOODHEAD