As I start to report on the separation of protestants and catholics in Ireland, I notice how many people act as though there is no rift anymore between the two religions. A catholic employee at our hostel mentioned that he has a Protestant friend. Many in the younger generation say that they do not treat those of the other religion any differently.

But, are they really living with the differences? Catholics and Protestants making friends with each other does not close the rift. Gates and walls still separate the churches. Flags and symbols still indicate religious affiliation on store windows. The color orange is still contentious.

Tolerance is not the same as acceptance. The road to Catholics and Protestants truly living and accepting each other’s differences may be a long one.