Who? Me!
Asking the right question is as important as getting the right answer. It means we are on the right track to self-understanding. We’re clued in to life. We’re focused on the present but with our sights on the future too. But, not everybody is. Those who never ask that all-important question, ‘who am i?’ can’t possibly be. As human beings we don’t just walk around with mystery every day. We are mystery every walking around! The answer to the question, ‘who am i?’ is not my name. It has nothing to do with my name. I can change that if I wish. But I can’t change my who no matter how much I might wish to do so because that is immutable before God. So, I need to meet that who, to discover what makes me, me. Is it status, success, money, ability, intelligence? These play their part in forming me, as do failures, limitations and fears, but there’s more to me than all of those put together.
I need to ask that all-important question, ‘who am I?’ and wait patiently until I hear the answer I grave; until in sheer disbelief I hear the words spoken to Jesus in today’s: you are my beloved son/daughter in whom I am well pleased.
Fr Tom Cahill
Questions People Ask
Q. John’s Baptism was a ritual of repentance, but if Jesus was sinless, why did he say that he needed to be baptised?
A. Jesus explained that it was fitting that he should, in this way, do all that righteousness demanded. While he did not need cleansing from any personal sin, he considered it fitting or right to show his solidarity with sinful humanity. By doing so, he anticipated his death on Calvary where he took on the role of the sacrificial lamb to take away the guilt of the world.
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Rehab Walk in West Cork
A Walk in the Rural Scenic Roads of the Sheepshead Peninsula in West Cork takes place from 22nd to 25th May 2008 in aid of Rehab. The trip which departs from Kilkenny will be confined to 20 people, with departure on Thursday afternoon 22nd May, and returning on Sunday 25th may 2008. The trip will incorporate 3 nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the scenic West Lodge Hotel in Bantry. Each participant is required to raise€575 (this includes meal costs and transport costs etc). Accommodation is on a Room Share Basis. The proceeds from the event will go to the new Rehab Development in William Street, Kilkenny. This trip incorporates 2 days walking on the Friday and Saturday (23rd & 24th May 2008). If you wish to be considered as one of the 20 participants, you are asked to contact Roche at 086 8282474 as soon as possible. Sponsorship Cards are available on request.
Church Gate Collection
The Irish Wheelchair Association will hold their Church Gate Collection on this weekend at all masses.
Thank You
We would like to extend a word of thanks and appreciation to the Young at Heart club for their recent donation of €300 towards the Parish Centre.
Divine Mercy
There will be an hour of adoration and prayer in honour of Divine Mercy in St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday 13th January from 3-4pm. All are welcome.
Bag Pack
Some local supermarkets have given us permission to hold fund raising bag packs for the parish. We are currently compiling a list of people who are interested in helping. Please contact the Presbytery (776 4400) if you can spare and hour or two.
Pray for the deceased
Recently Deceased: Maura Nolan, Outrath. Funeral prayers at her home at 7pm on Sunday followed by removal to St. Fiacre’s Church. Requiem Mass at 12 noon on Monday followed by burial at Foulkstown Cemetery. Jimmy Bergin, Brownstown.
Months Mind: Kathleen Redpath (Sun 12.30)
Anniversaries: Anna Campion (Sat 6.15), Beattie O’Connell (Sun 10.00), Peg, Jack & Breda Molloy (Sun 10.30), Maureen O’Shea (Sun 11.00), Frank O’Shea (Sun 12.00), Brigid Currid (Tues 10.30), Patrick & Sally Mullally (Wed 10.30), John, Pat & Ellen Butler (Thurs 10.30), Cornelius Carroll, Anne & John Bissett, Christopher & Mary Ryan, Patrick, Delia & Margaret Taylor, Dennis Guilfoyle, Johnny Brennan, Nora Carroll, Nancy Ronan, Ellen & Michael McEvoy, Patricia Byrne
Intentions for next weekend: John Bradley (Sat 6.15), Paul Prodromou (Sat 7.00), Norah Foley (Sun 9.30), Kathleen O’Neill (Sun 10.00), Ann & John Waldron (Sun 10.30), Bobbi Leahy (Sun 11.00), Oliver Mannion (Sun 12.00).
Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes
This year’s pilgrimage takes place from May 22nd to May 27th. The Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes is the most prolonged gathering of people from the diocese each year with 487 people making the pilgrimage in 2007 from thirty nine of our forty two parishes. Each year a dedicated group of caring people assists with the seventy or so that journey as assisted pilgrims many of whom travel with the financial assistance of local communities, parishes and sponsors. All inquiries and applications regarding the assisted pilgrim section should be directed to Glenmore Parish Office 051 880414. Cost €685 pps or €710 for those aged between 85-95yrs. Booking forms available for Glenmore Parish office or Fr. Michael O’Connor 051 880414. Complete booking forms should be returned to Fr. O’Connor before 1st Feb with the relevant payment.
First Holy Communion Dates
10th May: St. Patrick’s de la Salle at 11am at St. Patrick’s Church.
17th May: St. John of God at 11am at St. Patrick’s Church.
17th May: Gaelscoil Osraí at 10.30am at St. Mary’s Cathedral.
18th May: KSP at 12 noon at St. Fiacre’s Church.
Foulkstown Cemetery
We again ask people to keep a vigilant eye while out in Foulkstown Cemetery for any suspicious or illegal activity. If you notice anything including illegal dumping, note the registration of the vehicle involved and bring it to the attention of the priests or any committee member. We ask people to note that the cemetery is not a dumping ground for household or commercial waste, nor is it place to bring cuttings from gardens. Our costs for waste removal are high enough without having to pay for people’s rubbish.
Such a vigilant eye by one parishioner recently managed to stop a break-in at the back of the church where cemetery equipment is stored. The Gardaí managed to apprehend the culprit. We are grateful to this parishioner for his solid efforts.
As mentioned a couple of weeks back, the prices of graves in Foulkstown are increasing by €50 for a single grave and €100 for a double. The complete prices are as follows:
Parishioners: Single: €350. Double: €600.
Non-Parishioners: Single €400. Double: €750.
It is possible to purchase a grave in advance. However you do not get a location or plot until you actually need it. What you are purchasing is the right to a place in Foulkstown when the actual need arises.
Please note that the cemetery continues to be locked at night time for security reasons. Thanks for your support.
Senior Citizen’s Party
The St. Patrick’s Senior Citizen’s Christmas Party takes place this coming Monday (14th) at 8pm in the Springhill Court Hotel. Tickets are available for this event in any of the sacristies of our three churches. Tickets cost €10 and are restricted to those over 60. If you intend going please let us know before Monday lunchtime.
Each year the event is a wonderful success with a lovely meal and excellent entertainment throughout the night. There will also be a raffle on the night.
Those who have transport might be able to offer others a lift to the event. If anyone has difficulty getting to the party then let us know on Monday evening and we will organise a lift.
Sincere thanks to the committee who organise this event every year and thanks to all who sponsor this event.
The Parish Centre
Just a quick note to allay the fears of some people: no, the colour of the roof will not be yellow. The present colour is actually the under sheeting and insulation. When finished the roof will have the same colour tiles as the church and surrounding houses. Although it has to be said, the yellow does have a certain ‘hurling’ appeal.
More on the progress of the parish centre, as well as finances later.
Items for Newsletter
We ask people who are submitting material for the newsletter to do so by Thursday afternoon at the latest. The newsletter is compiled on Thursday and Friday and after this time we cannot guarantee inclusion until the following week. Thanks for your cooperation.
Blessed Sacrament Exposition
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament takes place in St. Fiacre’s Church on Mondays from 11am to 10pm each week. Exposition also takes place in St. Patrick’s Church on Fridays from 10am to 1pm and 4pm to 9pm each week.
Exposition is a time for private prayer and adoration of Jesus in the Eucharist. A consecrated host is placed in a vessel called a monstrance and placed on the altar where it can be seen and adored by people.
The Eucharist is our most intimate contact with Jesus in this life whether we are receiving communion or praying before the Blessed Sacrament. All are welcome to join in this precious time with God.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Sunday, January 6, 2008
The Epiphany of the Lord, 6th January 2008
A Great Start to the New Year
To date almost a quarter of a million euro has been donated by parishioners in response to our recent appeal for financial support for our new parish centre. This is a wonderful New Year’s shot in the arm to our fundraising drive and is greatly appreciated by the Parish Finance Committee.
During October and November Fr. Dan wrote to all parishioners appealing for financial help for the development of a parish centre, homes for the elderly and presbytery at Loughboy: your response was very generous. Parishioners sent in what they could afford: some sent €20, others €50 and €100. Those who could afford it gave more – a few very generous parishioners gave €2,000 and €5,000. Every single euro is appreciated. In all the response was excellent and may be summed up as follows:
Donations from parishioners €145,170.00
Loans from parishioners €60,500.00
Donations from companies €27,300.00
Total €232,970.00
This figure is accurate as of 31st December 2007 and donations continue to arrive. Thanks for your generous commitment to our parish project – putting the money up front will greatly reduce the amount to be paid in interest and substantially ease the long term financial burden on the parish. Our financial advisers suggest that every €100 received now will be worth up to €200 in interest saved in the long term. Furthermore, much of the money received comes under the terms of the Tax Refunds to Eligible Charities Scheme and will enable the parish to recover even more money from the Revenue Commissioners at no extra cost to the donor.
Letters of acknowledgement and appreciation have been sent to those who have contributed to date. Needless to say, if you “meant to do something on that appeal” there is still time. The account will be open for some time yet.
Questions People Ask
Q. If it was alright for the Magi to follow a star, why does the Church frown on using astrology as a means of gaining knowledge of our future?
A. Because it’s absolute nonsense! The same Bible which has the story of the Magi clearly forbids any form of divination, that is, seeking divine knowledge or power through reading omens of by means of magic. When the Magi (magicians) bow before Jesus and offer their gifts, it shows that they are giving up their religious systems and adoring Jesus as Lord. Far from supporting astrology, this story announces its termination because Jesus is the light to be followed.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place on Friday, 11th January 2008 in St. Fiacre’s Church, immediately after the 10.30am Mass. All are welcome.
Rosary
The recitation of the rosary at the Statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny at James’ Green on the First Sunday of each month continues on this Sunday, 6th January at 3pm. All welcome.
Prayer for Healing
The fortnightly prayer for healing continues at St. Fiacre’s Church from this Thursday 7.30pm. All are welcome.
All Kinds of Everything
Someone once described love as the ability to see butterflies in caterpillars. I think that holds true for faith too. The feast we celebrate today, the Epiphany, is a good example of that.
Epiphany, a strange sounding word of Greek origin, simply means seeing something, or someone, more clearly than ever before. It’s sudden, and it takes your breath away. Something we are very familiar with we suddenly discover has more to it than we thought. Someone we thought we knew inside out suddenly gob-smacks us into seeing that we can’t take her, or him, or anyone else for granted ever. Mystery rules, ok! That’s epiphany. We need constant contact with mystery so life’s richness isn’t diluted.
After their vision, the three wise men in today’s gospel reading (Mt 2: 1-12) have their dream. It warns them to avoid Herod. Some people can’t cope with mystery. Their attitude is all wrong, their values are all wrong, they are all wrong. As the wise men avoided Herod, so too must we, with whatever name or in whatever form he may appear. He’s the one who tramples on caterpillars and thinks butterflies are for the birds. Clearly, besides mystery we also need our dreams.
Fr. Tom Cahill
Blood Donation Clinic
The Irish Blood Transfusion Service will be visiting the area with their mobile blood collection team. The IBTS is at present, experiencing difficulty in collecting enough voluntary blood donations in order to meet hospital requirements of 3,000 units of blood a week.
The clinics will be at The Rivercourt Hotel, Kilkenny at the following times:
Sunday, 6th January from 11.30am to 3.30pm.
Monday - Thursday, 7th - 10th January from 4.30pm - 8.30 pm.
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Josephine McGrath, Shellumsrath.
Months Mind: Phyllis Doran (Sat 7.00)
Anniversaries: Billy & Anastatia Hickey (Sat 6.15), Philomena Brennan (Sun 9.30), Monica Dooley (Sun 10.30), Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00), Christina & Rose Leahy (Sun 12.00), Sean Devane (Sun 12.30), Gerald Lincoln (Tues 10.30), Teresa Walsh (Wed 10.30), Catherine Brennan (Thurs 10.30), Diane Keenan (Fri 10.30), William & Eileen Bergin, John Reid, Mary O’Grady, Michael Kenny, Lorenzo Mahony, Maura Molloy, John Lanigan, John O’Gara, Mary Kate Hayes, Tom Maher, Denis Nyhan, Ann Smyth, Phyllis, Marie & Tom Dowling, Msgr Paul Fitzgerald, Henrietta Duggan, James & Anne O’Grady.
Intentions Next Weekend: Anna Campion (Sat 6.15),Beattie O’Connell (Sun 10.00), Peg, Jack & Breda Molloy (Sun 10.30), Maureen O’Shea (Sun 11.00), Frank O’Shea (Sun 12.00), Kathleen Redpath - Month’s Mind (Sun 12.30).
English Language Classes
Co Kilkenny Adult Learning Scheme is hosting English Language Classes for non-Irish nationals. Registration in on Monday, 7th January at 5 Colliers Lane, Kilkenny. Time: 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Cost: Beginners and Intermediate - €55 for 1 class per week / 9 weeks and €110 for 2 classes per week / 9 weeks. Advanced - €90 for 1 class per week/ 9 weeks.
All students must register and pay before classes begin on Monday 14th Jan 08. Morning classes also available. All classes are subject to demand. Fetac Accreditation may be offered. Contact Helen Walsh 056 776 3149 or 086 840 0344 for further information. See poster on notice boards.
Adult Education & Careers Evening
Wednesday, 16th January from 6.30 - 9.30pm at the Newpark Hotel. This event is free and open to all adults who have an interest in learning more about their options for education and careers. For information: Co. Kilkenny VEC. Tel: 056 776 4448. See poster on notice boards.
Epiphany Announcement 2008
Dear brothers and sisters,
The glory of the Lord has shone upon us, and shall ever manifest itself among us, until the day of his return. Through the rhythms and changes of time let us call to mind and live the mysteries of salvation.
The centre of the whole liturgical year is the Paschal Triduum of the Lord, crucified, buried, and risen, which will culminate in the solemn Vigil of Easter, during the holy night that will end with the dawn of the twenty-third day of March. Every Sunday, as in a weekly Easter, holy Church makes present that great and saving deed by which Christ has forever conquered sin and death.
From Easter there comes forth and are reckoned all the days we keep holy: Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten spring, the sixth day of February; the Ascension of the Lord, the fourth day of May; and Pentecost, the eleventh day of May; the First Sunday of Advent, the thirtieth day of November.
Likewise in the feasts of the Holy Mother of God, of the apostles and saints, and in the commemoration of the faithful departed, the pilgrim Church on earth proclaims the resurrection of Jesus Christ our Lord.
To Christ who was, who is, and who is to come, the Lord of time and history, be endless praise forever and ever! Amen!
Parish Calendars
Our parish calendar is still available containing details of Baptisms, First Holy Communions, Confirmations, Marriages and other important information about our parish. Please feel free to take copies from the back of the churches.
Thanks to Patrick N Meany and Sons, Undertakers, who sponsored our calendar this year.
Mobile Telephones in Church
We appeal to all who attend services in our churches to turn off mobile telephones. There have been a number of incidents recently where the celebrant and members of the congregation have been greatly disturbed by telephones ringing during Masses. Please, out of courtesy to other worshippers, turn off your telephone while in church. Thanks.
To date almost a quarter of a million euro has been donated by parishioners in response to our recent appeal for financial support for our new parish centre. This is a wonderful New Year’s shot in the arm to our fundraising drive and is greatly appreciated by the Parish Finance Committee.
During October and November Fr. Dan wrote to all parishioners appealing for financial help for the development of a parish centre, homes for the elderly and presbytery at Loughboy: your response was very generous. Parishioners sent in what they could afford: some sent €20, others €50 and €100. Those who could afford it gave more – a few very generous parishioners gave €2,000 and €5,000. Every single euro is appreciated. In all the response was excellent and may be summed up as follows:
Donations from parishioners €145,170.00
Loans from parishioners €60,500.00
Donations from companies €27,300.00
Total €232,970.00
This figure is accurate as of 31st December 2007 and donations continue to arrive. Thanks for your generous commitment to our parish project – putting the money up front will greatly reduce the amount to be paid in interest and substantially ease the long term financial burden on the parish. Our financial advisers suggest that every €100 received now will be worth up to €200 in interest saved in the long term. Furthermore, much of the money received comes under the terms of the Tax Refunds to Eligible Charities Scheme and will enable the parish to recover even more money from the Revenue Commissioners at no extra cost to the donor.
Letters of acknowledgement and appreciation have been sent to those who have contributed to date. Needless to say, if you “meant to do something on that appeal” there is still time. The account will be open for some time yet.
Questions People Ask
Q. If it was alright for the Magi to follow a star, why does the Church frown on using astrology as a means of gaining knowledge of our future?
A. Because it’s absolute nonsense! The same Bible which has the story of the Magi clearly forbids any form of divination, that is, seeking divine knowledge or power through reading omens of by means of magic. When the Magi (magicians) bow before Jesus and offer their gifts, it shows that they are giving up their religious systems and adoring Jesus as Lord. Far from supporting astrology, this story announces its termination because Jesus is the light to be followed.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place on Friday, 11th January 2008 in St. Fiacre’s Church, immediately after the 10.30am Mass. All are welcome.
Rosary
The recitation of the rosary at the Statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny at James’ Green on the First Sunday of each month continues on this Sunday, 6th January at 3pm. All welcome.
Prayer for Healing
The fortnightly prayer for healing continues at St. Fiacre’s Church from this Thursday 7.30pm. All are welcome.
All Kinds of Everything
Someone once described love as the ability to see butterflies in caterpillars. I think that holds true for faith too. The feast we celebrate today, the Epiphany, is a good example of that.
Epiphany, a strange sounding word of Greek origin, simply means seeing something, or someone, more clearly than ever before. It’s sudden, and it takes your breath away. Something we are very familiar with we suddenly discover has more to it than we thought. Someone we thought we knew inside out suddenly gob-smacks us into seeing that we can’t take her, or him, or anyone else for granted ever. Mystery rules, ok! That’s epiphany. We need constant contact with mystery so life’s richness isn’t diluted.
After their vision, the three wise men in today’s gospel reading (Mt 2: 1-12) have their dream. It warns them to avoid Herod. Some people can’t cope with mystery. Their attitude is all wrong, their values are all wrong, they are all wrong. As the wise men avoided Herod, so too must we, with whatever name or in whatever form he may appear. He’s the one who tramples on caterpillars and thinks butterflies are for the birds. Clearly, besides mystery we also need our dreams.
Fr. Tom Cahill
Blood Donation Clinic
The Irish Blood Transfusion Service will be visiting the area with their mobile blood collection team. The IBTS is at present, experiencing difficulty in collecting enough voluntary blood donations in order to meet hospital requirements of 3,000 units of blood a week.
The clinics will be at The Rivercourt Hotel, Kilkenny at the following times:
Sunday, 6th January from 11.30am to 3.30pm.
Monday - Thursday, 7th - 10th January from 4.30pm - 8.30 pm.
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Josephine McGrath, Shellumsrath.
Months Mind: Phyllis Doran (Sat 7.00)
Anniversaries: Billy & Anastatia Hickey (Sat 6.15), Philomena Brennan (Sun 9.30), Monica Dooley (Sun 10.30), Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00), Christina & Rose Leahy (Sun 12.00), Sean Devane (Sun 12.30), Gerald Lincoln (Tues 10.30), Teresa Walsh (Wed 10.30), Catherine Brennan (Thurs 10.30), Diane Keenan (Fri 10.30), William & Eileen Bergin, John Reid, Mary O’Grady, Michael Kenny, Lorenzo Mahony, Maura Molloy, John Lanigan, John O’Gara, Mary Kate Hayes, Tom Maher, Denis Nyhan, Ann Smyth, Phyllis, Marie & Tom Dowling, Msgr Paul Fitzgerald, Henrietta Duggan, James & Anne O’Grady.
Intentions Next Weekend: Anna Campion (Sat 6.15),Beattie O’Connell (Sun 10.00), Peg, Jack & Breda Molloy (Sun 10.30), Maureen O’Shea (Sun 11.00), Frank O’Shea (Sun 12.00), Kathleen Redpath - Month’s Mind (Sun 12.30).
English Language Classes
Co Kilkenny Adult Learning Scheme is hosting English Language Classes for non-Irish nationals. Registration in on Monday, 7th January at 5 Colliers Lane, Kilkenny. Time: 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Cost: Beginners and Intermediate - €55 for 1 class per week / 9 weeks and €110 for 2 classes per week / 9 weeks. Advanced - €90 for 1 class per week/ 9 weeks.
All students must register and pay before classes begin on Monday 14th Jan 08. Morning classes also available. All classes are subject to demand. Fetac Accreditation may be offered. Contact Helen Walsh 056 776 3149 or 086 840 0344 for further information. See poster on notice boards.
Adult Education & Careers Evening
Wednesday, 16th January from 6.30 - 9.30pm at the Newpark Hotel. This event is free and open to all adults who have an interest in learning more about their options for education and careers. For information: Co. Kilkenny VEC. Tel: 056 776 4448. See poster on notice boards.
Epiphany Announcement 2008
Dear brothers and sisters,
The glory of the Lord has shone upon us, and shall ever manifest itself among us, until the day of his return. Through the rhythms and changes of time let us call to mind and live the mysteries of salvation.
The centre of the whole liturgical year is the Paschal Triduum of the Lord, crucified, buried, and risen, which will culminate in the solemn Vigil of Easter, during the holy night that will end with the dawn of the twenty-third day of March. Every Sunday, as in a weekly Easter, holy Church makes present that great and saving deed by which Christ has forever conquered sin and death.
From Easter there comes forth and are reckoned all the days we keep holy: Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten spring, the sixth day of February; the Ascension of the Lord, the fourth day of May; and Pentecost, the eleventh day of May; the First Sunday of Advent, the thirtieth day of November.
Likewise in the feasts of the Holy Mother of God, of the apostles and saints, and in the commemoration of the faithful departed, the pilgrim Church on earth proclaims the resurrection of Jesus Christ our Lord.
To Christ who was, who is, and who is to come, the Lord of time and history, be endless praise forever and ever! Amen!
Parish Calendars
Our parish calendar is still available containing details of Baptisms, First Holy Communions, Confirmations, Marriages and other important information about our parish. Please feel free to take copies from the back of the churches.
Thanks to Patrick N Meany and Sons, Undertakers, who sponsored our calendar this year.
Mobile Telephones in Church
We appeal to all who attend services in our churches to turn off mobile telephones. There have been a number of incidents recently where the celebrant and members of the congregation have been greatly disturbed by telephones ringing during Masses. Please, out of courtesy to other worshippers, turn off your telephone while in church. Thanks.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
The Holy Family, 30th December 2007
Welcome Bishop Séamus
We have pleasure in welcoming Bishop Séamus Freeman to our parish this weekend. Our new bishop is anxious to visit the parishes of the diocese as soon as possible and we are honoured to welcome him this weekend. Bishop Séamus will be principal concelebrant at our 11am Mass at St. Patrick’s on Sunday.
Happy New Year
The priests and members of the Parish Team join in wishing all the parishioners of St. Patrick’s Parish, our friends and acquaintances a very happy and holy New Year.
Focus on Family
Albert Einstein once said that there are only two ways to live one's life: as though nothing is a miracle, or as though everything is. Better play safe and take the second option especially when it comes to family. Family is where we most readily experience the miracle that life is. It’s where we fashion ourselves, and are fashioned, as human beings. It's where we learn the art of living, the beauty of words such as ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. It’s where we learn to brush teeth, wash hands, and of course to flush. It’s where we learn to be on time for meals we haven’t had to prepare ourselves, and to help with wash-up instead of running off to play. In short, it’s where we learn to think of others and not just of ourselves. It’s where we learn eventually what Okakura Kakuzo notes in, The Book of Tea, that those who cannot feel the littleness of great things in themselves are apt to overlook the greatness of little things in others. Most of these important lessons come courtesy of parents. NO wonder then the Word of God speaks so highly of them today in Ben Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14. Where would we be without them?
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD
Questions People Ask
Q. Was there any particular reason why the Holy Family settled in Nazareth?
A. Nazareth was an insignificant town, never even mentioned in the Old Testament. It had become a centre for migrant workers engaged by Herod for a massive building project at nearby Sepphoris, Joseph, a carpenter, would have had a good job there. Nazareth had no great religious traditions, only a dubious reputation. ‘Can anything good come from Nazareth?’ There’s a great lesson here. If Jesus made a dubious place life Nazareth his hometown, then we can expect to find him anywhere...even where we live!
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Parish Calendars
Our annual parish calendar is available at the doors of the churches. Please feel free to take a copy home with you. Thanks to Patrick N. Meaney and Sons, Undertakers, for the kind sponsorship this year.
Mass Times This Week
Masses during the week will be at 9.30am (St. Patrick’s Church) and 10.30am St. Fiacre’s Church) with the exception of Tuesday, 1st January. On New Year’s Day the only Mass will be at St. Patrick’s Church at 11am.
Kilkenny Gospel Choir
The members of the Kilkenny Gospel Choir will provide the sacred music at the 12 o’clock Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on next Sunday.
DVD of Bishop’s Ordination
The DVD of the Episcopal Ordination of Most Rev. Séamus Freeman, Bishop of Ossory, is available at the Sacristies in our parish churches and at the Parish Office. Cost €15. The DVD is also available at St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Ossory Diocesan Office, Sion Road.
Pray for Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Eddie Taylor, 3 Loughboy Park. Larry Campbell, Naas. James Byrne, Clonegal.
Month’s Mind: Paddy Murphy (Sat 7.00).
Anniversaries: Dr. Harry Roche (Thurs 10.30), Edward Moriarty, Michael Kelly, Peg Larkin, Liam Costello, Anna Dunphy, Ted Kenny, Paddy Doyle, Patrick Dwyer, Liam & Mary Ryan, Bernadette Warde, Phyllis, Marie & Tom Dowling.
Intentions for next weekend: Billy & Annastatia Hickey (Sat 6.15); Phyllis Doran (Month’s Mind - Sat 7.00); Monica Dooley (Sun 10.30); Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00); Christina Leahy (Sun 12.00); Sean Devane (Sun 12.30).
Getting Married Soon
Congratulations! We pray God’s blessing on you as you prepare for this great step in your lives. The following may be of use:
Couples must give at least three months notice to the parish in which they intend to get married. (The Civil Registrar for the area also requires three months notice.) Pre-marriage papers should be prepared in the parish in which the person is residing. Therefore, having booked the date, we advise that you speak to a priest in the parish in which you are residing about beginning the process of assembling the necessary papers. Situations differ but should never be daunting and we suggest you speak with the priest before you begin the work of assembling the papers: what was necessary for your friend may not be required in your case. While the papers are prepared in the parish of residence they are eventually sent to and filed in the parish in which the marriage takes place.
The celebrant you choose will help you select suitable prayers and readings to make your celebration personal and memorable.
Those getting married within the Diocese of Ossory are obliged to participate in a pre-marriage course. For information on course availability contact: Accord, St Mary's Centre, James Street, Kilkenny. Tel: 772 2674.
Welcome 2008
With the New Year just around the corner, we say goodbye to 2007 and we welcome the New Year of 2008. The coming year promises to be a busy year for St. Patrick’s Parish with the planned opening of our new parish centre at Loughboy.
So far the building is more or less on target and, sometime in the summer, God willing, we will receive the keys to a new facility with will become the hub and hive of activity for our parish alongside our churches.
We will of course have to continue fund-raising for the centre and we’re grateful for the huge support we have received thus far. From small amounts to large amounts, from weekly envelopes to donations or loans, every cent collected now means less we have to borrow in the long term. Thanks to all who are so generous.
The Parish Draw which has been a huge success will continue in 2008 and your support is deeply appreciated. Thanks to Ted Byrne and his dedicated team of promoters who put so much effort in. Also planned for 2008 will be an auction, more on this later.
But 2008 won’t be all about raising money. The senior citizens’ party will be held in January and then, for Lent, there will be a series of Lenten services planned for our churches. Many young people from our parish will receive the sacraments of Baptism, Penance, Holy Communion and Confirmation in the coming year. We wish them well. Also, many of the current parish groups such as Nursing Home Visitation Team, Baptismal Team, St. Vincent de Paul, Prayer Groups and Senior Citizen groups will continue their work in 2008 and new members are always welcome.
So, 2008 will be an exciting time for our parish. We invite you to join us.
Sincere Thanks
Thanks to everyone who supported the Christmas Offering for the support of our bishop and the priests of the parish. Your contribution is much appreciated.
Foulkstown Cemetery
This a quiet time out at Foulkstown Cemetery but the cemetery committee continues to keep a watchful eye and maintain the final resting place of our loved ones to the highest standard. We ask visitors to the cemetery to be careful crossing the road. If you notice any suspicious activity in or around the church or grounds, please bring it to the attention of the priests or committee members. We ask people to note that the dumping of commercial and household waste is not allowed in the cemetery. Facilities are provided only for dead flowers and wreaths.
As of 1st January 2008, the prices of graves in Foulkstown goes up by €50 for a single grave and €100 for a double grave. The price increase is to due to the impending development of the next section of the graveyard. Further details will be printed in next week’s newsletter.
Thanks to all who are involved in the maintaining of Foulkstown, the cemetery and church. Your work is greatly appreciated.
English Language Classes
Registration on Monday, 7th January 2008. Venue: 5 Colliers Lane, Kilkenny.
Time: 6:30pm to 8:30pm.
Beginners and Intermediate: €55 for 1 class per week for nine weeks. €110 for 2 classes per week for nine weeks. Classes last for 1 hour and 45 minutes. All students must register and pay before classes begin on the 14th January. Contact Helen on 056 776 3149 or 086 840 0344.
Parish Newsletter
We are happy to publish notices of church and community interest in our weekly newsletter. However, we ask contributors to note that the deadline for inclusion of items in the weekly newsletter is 4pm on Thursday before publication.
Notices, including anniversary notices, should be clearly written and delivered to the Presbytery by hand, post or email.
While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of all information published we cannot accept any liability for mistakes and errors.
Parish Calendar & Newsletter sponsored by:
Patrick N. Meany & Sons
Funeral Directors
Greenridge, Johnswell Road, Kilkenny
056 7751100 / 086 8688868
We have pleasure in welcoming Bishop Séamus Freeman to our parish this weekend. Our new bishop is anxious to visit the parishes of the diocese as soon as possible and we are honoured to welcome him this weekend. Bishop Séamus will be principal concelebrant at our 11am Mass at St. Patrick’s on Sunday.
Happy New Year
The priests and members of the Parish Team join in wishing all the parishioners of St. Patrick’s Parish, our friends and acquaintances a very happy and holy New Year.
Focus on Family
Albert Einstein once said that there are only two ways to live one's life: as though nothing is a miracle, or as though everything is. Better play safe and take the second option especially when it comes to family. Family is where we most readily experience the miracle that life is. It’s where we fashion ourselves, and are fashioned, as human beings. It's where we learn the art of living, the beauty of words such as ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. It’s where we learn to brush teeth, wash hands, and of course to flush. It’s where we learn to be on time for meals we haven’t had to prepare ourselves, and to help with wash-up instead of running off to play. In short, it’s where we learn to think of others and not just of ourselves. It’s where we learn eventually what Okakura Kakuzo notes in, The Book of Tea, that those who cannot feel the littleness of great things in themselves are apt to overlook the greatness of little things in others. Most of these important lessons come courtesy of parents. NO wonder then the Word of God speaks so highly of them today in Ben Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14. Where would we be without them?
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD
Questions People Ask
Q. Was there any particular reason why the Holy Family settled in Nazareth?
A. Nazareth was an insignificant town, never even mentioned in the Old Testament. It had become a centre for migrant workers engaged by Herod for a massive building project at nearby Sepphoris, Joseph, a carpenter, would have had a good job there. Nazareth had no great religious traditions, only a dubious reputation. ‘Can anything good come from Nazareth?’ There’s a great lesson here. If Jesus made a dubious place life Nazareth his hometown, then we can expect to find him anywhere...even where we live!
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Parish Calendars
Our annual parish calendar is available at the doors of the churches. Please feel free to take a copy home with you. Thanks to Patrick N. Meaney and Sons, Undertakers, for the kind sponsorship this year.
Mass Times This Week
Masses during the week will be at 9.30am (St. Patrick’s Church) and 10.30am St. Fiacre’s Church) with the exception of Tuesday, 1st January. On New Year’s Day the only Mass will be at St. Patrick’s Church at 11am.
Kilkenny Gospel Choir
The members of the Kilkenny Gospel Choir will provide the sacred music at the 12 o’clock Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on next Sunday.
DVD of Bishop’s Ordination
The DVD of the Episcopal Ordination of Most Rev. Séamus Freeman, Bishop of Ossory, is available at the Sacristies in our parish churches and at the Parish Office. Cost €15. The DVD is also available at St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Ossory Diocesan Office, Sion Road.
Pray for Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Eddie Taylor, 3 Loughboy Park. Larry Campbell, Naas. James Byrne, Clonegal.
Month’s Mind: Paddy Murphy (Sat 7.00).
Anniversaries: Dr. Harry Roche (Thurs 10.30), Edward Moriarty, Michael Kelly, Peg Larkin, Liam Costello, Anna Dunphy, Ted Kenny, Paddy Doyle, Patrick Dwyer, Liam & Mary Ryan, Bernadette Warde, Phyllis, Marie & Tom Dowling.
Intentions for next weekend: Billy & Annastatia Hickey (Sat 6.15); Phyllis Doran (Month’s Mind - Sat 7.00); Monica Dooley (Sun 10.30); Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00); Christina Leahy (Sun 12.00); Sean Devane (Sun 12.30).
Getting Married Soon
Congratulations! We pray God’s blessing on you as you prepare for this great step in your lives. The following may be of use:
Couples must give at least three months notice to the parish in which they intend to get married. (The Civil Registrar for the area also requires three months notice.) Pre-marriage papers should be prepared in the parish in which the person is residing. Therefore, having booked the date, we advise that you speak to a priest in the parish in which you are residing about beginning the process of assembling the necessary papers. Situations differ but should never be daunting and we suggest you speak with the priest before you begin the work of assembling the papers: what was necessary for your friend may not be required in your case. While the papers are prepared in the parish of residence they are eventually sent to and filed in the parish in which the marriage takes place.
The celebrant you choose will help you select suitable prayers and readings to make your celebration personal and memorable.
Those getting married within the Diocese of Ossory are obliged to participate in a pre-marriage course. For information on course availability contact: Accord, St Mary's Centre, James Street, Kilkenny. Tel: 772 2674.
Welcome 2008
With the New Year just around the corner, we say goodbye to 2007 and we welcome the New Year of 2008. The coming year promises to be a busy year for St. Patrick’s Parish with the planned opening of our new parish centre at Loughboy.
So far the building is more or less on target and, sometime in the summer, God willing, we will receive the keys to a new facility with will become the hub and hive of activity for our parish alongside our churches.
We will of course have to continue fund-raising for the centre and we’re grateful for the huge support we have received thus far. From small amounts to large amounts, from weekly envelopes to donations or loans, every cent collected now means less we have to borrow in the long term. Thanks to all who are so generous.
The Parish Draw which has been a huge success will continue in 2008 and your support is deeply appreciated. Thanks to Ted Byrne and his dedicated team of promoters who put so much effort in. Also planned for 2008 will be an auction, more on this later.
But 2008 won’t be all about raising money. The senior citizens’ party will be held in January and then, for Lent, there will be a series of Lenten services planned for our churches. Many young people from our parish will receive the sacraments of Baptism, Penance, Holy Communion and Confirmation in the coming year. We wish them well. Also, many of the current parish groups such as Nursing Home Visitation Team, Baptismal Team, St. Vincent de Paul, Prayer Groups and Senior Citizen groups will continue their work in 2008 and new members are always welcome.
So, 2008 will be an exciting time for our parish. We invite you to join us.
Sincere Thanks
Thanks to everyone who supported the Christmas Offering for the support of our bishop and the priests of the parish. Your contribution is much appreciated.
Foulkstown Cemetery
This a quiet time out at Foulkstown Cemetery but the cemetery committee continues to keep a watchful eye and maintain the final resting place of our loved ones to the highest standard. We ask visitors to the cemetery to be careful crossing the road. If you notice any suspicious activity in or around the church or grounds, please bring it to the attention of the priests or committee members. We ask people to note that the dumping of commercial and household waste is not allowed in the cemetery. Facilities are provided only for dead flowers and wreaths.
As of 1st January 2008, the prices of graves in Foulkstown goes up by €50 for a single grave and €100 for a double grave. The price increase is to due to the impending development of the next section of the graveyard. Further details will be printed in next week’s newsletter.
Thanks to all who are involved in the maintaining of Foulkstown, the cemetery and church. Your work is greatly appreciated.
English Language Classes
Registration on Monday, 7th January 2008. Venue: 5 Colliers Lane, Kilkenny.
Time: 6:30pm to 8:30pm.
Beginners and Intermediate: €55 for 1 class per week for nine weeks. €110 for 2 classes per week for nine weeks. Classes last for 1 hour and 45 minutes. All students must register and pay before classes begin on the 14th January. Contact Helen on 056 776 3149 or 086 840 0344.
Parish Newsletter
We are happy to publish notices of church and community interest in our weekly newsletter. However, we ask contributors to note that the deadline for inclusion of items in the weekly newsletter is 4pm on Thursday before publication.
Notices, including anniversary notices, should be clearly written and delivered to the Presbytery by hand, post or email.
While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of all information published we cannot accept any liability for mistakes and errors.
Parish Calendar & Newsletter sponsored by:
Patrick N. Meany & Sons
Funeral Directors
Greenridge, Johnswell Road, Kilkenny
056 7751100 / 086 8688868
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Fourth Sunday of Advent, 23rd December, 2007
Good News and Comfort Zones
A gem of Cherokee wisdom goes as follows: When you were born you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life so that when you die the world cries and you rejoice. Christmas, in its own way, confirms that we can do just that. That is what the Good news proclaims: death is not the end of everything, but the beginning of something new. Death is our passage to the rejoicing.
Our faith is not for pessimists unless, that is, to transform them into optimists. Recently I came across an amusing definition of a pessimist as one who feels bad when he feels good for fear he’ll feel worse when he feels better. No, our faith is not for those. Our faith instils joy, optimism, hope, vision, and trust. Otherwise, how could it be considered good news?
Some people, it seems, just cannot be happy being happy. They seem to feel there’s something wrong with it. God doesn’t want us to be happy in this vale of tears. A modern-day spin on this dreary spirituality is the blithely imposed duty to leave our so-called comfort zones.
I say, Thanks be to God for them. Just try living without any of them!
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD
Questions People Ask
Is it OK to question the virginal birth of Jesus? I’ve read that this was a fashionable notion in those days in mythology and when writing about famous leaders.
The gospels of Matthew and Luke treat the virginal conception of Jesus as a fact, not as a fanciful notion or a myth. Joseph, on learning of Mary’s pregnancy, wanted to break off his contract with Mary until the virginal conception was revealed to him. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, already existed as a person before he came to earth in human nature. Therefore, he could not have had a second father, only an adoptive one. But to be fully human, his embryo needed nurturing in the womb of a mother.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Christmas Prayer from Bethlehem
The violence and conflict which still haunts the place where Jesus was born and walked two thousand years ago affect us all today. As we remember the birth of Jesus in a stable in the little town of Bethlehem, we cannot but remember the people of Bethlehem today that suffer poverty, a lack of housing, unemployment, fear and isolation.
As we prepare for Christmas, we have received a short prayer from the Parish Priest in St. Catherine's Parish of the Nativity in Bethlehem.
'Lord you know all who are suffering here because of the political situation and the climate of war. You know also that everything can be resolved if there is peace. Dear Baby Jesus, through the intercession of your Holy Mother and Saint Joseph, send us peace as soon as possible.
Pray for the deceased
Recently Deceased: Tommy Tyrell, Archers Crescent. Stephen Brennan, Paulstown. Rita Cooney, Castlepollard
Anniversaries: Elizabeth Comerford (Sat 6.15), Geraldine Cody (Sat 7.00), Christopher & Mary Coogan (Sun 10.30), George Byrne (Sun 11.00), Margaret & Patrick Cantwell (Sun 12.00), Mary Blanchfield (Sun 12.30), Diane Keenan, Jim & PJ Keenan (Tues 10.30), Betty Furniss (Tues 11.00), Mary O’Dwyer (Wed 11.00), May & John Rhatigan, Martin Doheny, Mary Doheny, Brendan Doheny, Martin Browne, The Condon Family, Roseanna Smyth, Richard Gaule, Rita Cooney, Ted Carroll, James & Samuel Dunlop, Seamus Fry, Patrick Burke, Edward Geoghegan, John, Mamie & Billy Phelan, Paddy Doyle, Tommy Clooney, Stephen Fanning, Jim O’Rourke, Peggy Blanchfield, Nora Bartholomew, Terry Brett, Tommy & Bridie O’Neill, Eileen McCormack.
Intentions for next weekend
Months Mind: Paddy Murphy (Sat 7.00).
Anniversaries: Dr. Harry Roche (Jan 3rd 10.30).
Welcome our New Bishop
We welcome our new bishop Most Rev. Seamus Freeman to our parish on next Sunday. Bishop Seamus is expected to be principal concelebrant at 11am Mass on Sunday 30th December.
Cake Sale
Many thanks to all who baked or donated cakes for our recent cake sale. Thanks to all who helped out on the day. We also thank Kilkenny Rugby Club for kindly providing the venue for our cake sale. The amount raised was €1,085.
Christmas Candles
Thank you to Fiona and Aisling from the Children’s Choir who made Christmas Candles which they sold after Mass last Sunday. They collected €300 in Aid of Chernobyl Children’s Project. Well done!
Christmas Morning Run
Kilkenny City Harriers will hold their annual Christmas Morning Charity Run. Participants assemble at The Parade, opposite the castle gates, to depart at 11.00am. This years collection goes to the local St Vincent de Paul.
St Mary’s Cathedral
Annual Carol Service
Sunday 23rd December at 7.30pm.
Collection in aid of Cathedral Organ
St. Joseph’s Church
Mass goers are asked not to park cars in the entrance to Kilkenny Rugby Club as this may delay cars crossing the roadway to enter the club grounds. There is ample parking in the car park. Your cooperation would be appreciated.
Remembrance Service
The Irish Sudden Infant Death Association will hold a Remembrance Service in St. John's Community Centre on Friday, 28th December at 11.30am.
The Community Centre is behind St. John’s RC Church. All are welcome to this special remembrance service.
Midnight with the Youth Choir
The youth choir is celebrating 20 years singing at Midnight Mass in the Parish this year. We would like to extend an invitation to all former members of the choir to come along and join with us at Midnight Mass this year. Musicians and singers are welcome.
Exposition
There will be just one hours adoration from 11am to 12 noon at St. Fiacre’s Church on Christmas Eve.
Christmas Greetings
As this is the last newsletter before Christmas the priests and the members of the Parish Team would like to take this opportunity to wish all in our parish a very happy and holy Christmas.
A gem of Cherokee wisdom goes as follows: When you were born you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life so that when you die the world cries and you rejoice. Christmas, in its own way, confirms that we can do just that. That is what the Good news proclaims: death is not the end of everything, but the beginning of something new. Death is our passage to the rejoicing.
Our faith is not for pessimists unless, that is, to transform them into optimists. Recently I came across an amusing definition of a pessimist as one who feels bad when he feels good for fear he’ll feel worse when he feels better. No, our faith is not for those. Our faith instils joy, optimism, hope, vision, and trust. Otherwise, how could it be considered good news?
Some people, it seems, just cannot be happy being happy. They seem to feel there’s something wrong with it. God doesn’t want us to be happy in this vale of tears. A modern-day spin on this dreary spirituality is the blithely imposed duty to leave our so-called comfort zones.
I say, Thanks be to God for them. Just try living without any of them!
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD
Questions People Ask
Is it OK to question the virginal birth of Jesus? I’ve read that this was a fashionable notion in those days in mythology and when writing about famous leaders.
The gospels of Matthew and Luke treat the virginal conception of Jesus as a fact, not as a fanciful notion or a myth. Joseph, on learning of Mary’s pregnancy, wanted to break off his contract with Mary until the virginal conception was revealed to him. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, already existed as a person before he came to earth in human nature. Therefore, he could not have had a second father, only an adoptive one. But to be fully human, his embryo needed nurturing in the womb of a mother.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Christmas Prayer from Bethlehem
The violence and conflict which still haunts the place where Jesus was born and walked two thousand years ago affect us all today. As we remember the birth of Jesus in a stable in the little town of Bethlehem, we cannot but remember the people of Bethlehem today that suffer poverty, a lack of housing, unemployment, fear and isolation.
As we prepare for Christmas, we have received a short prayer from the Parish Priest in St. Catherine's Parish of the Nativity in Bethlehem.
'Lord you know all who are suffering here because of the political situation and the climate of war. You know also that everything can be resolved if there is peace. Dear Baby Jesus, through the intercession of your Holy Mother and Saint Joseph, send us peace as soon as possible.
Pray for the deceased
Recently Deceased: Tommy Tyrell, Archers Crescent. Stephen Brennan, Paulstown. Rita Cooney, Castlepollard
Anniversaries: Elizabeth Comerford (Sat 6.15), Geraldine Cody (Sat 7.00), Christopher & Mary Coogan (Sun 10.30), George Byrne (Sun 11.00), Margaret & Patrick Cantwell (Sun 12.00), Mary Blanchfield (Sun 12.30), Diane Keenan, Jim & PJ Keenan (Tues 10.30), Betty Furniss (Tues 11.00), Mary O’Dwyer (Wed 11.00), May & John Rhatigan, Martin Doheny, Mary Doheny, Brendan Doheny, Martin Browne, The Condon Family, Roseanna Smyth, Richard Gaule, Rita Cooney, Ted Carroll, James & Samuel Dunlop, Seamus Fry, Patrick Burke, Edward Geoghegan, John, Mamie & Billy Phelan, Paddy Doyle, Tommy Clooney, Stephen Fanning, Jim O’Rourke, Peggy Blanchfield, Nora Bartholomew, Terry Brett, Tommy & Bridie O’Neill, Eileen McCormack.
Intentions for next weekend
Months Mind: Paddy Murphy (Sat 7.00).
Anniversaries: Dr. Harry Roche (Jan 3rd 10.30).
Welcome our New Bishop
We welcome our new bishop Most Rev. Seamus Freeman to our parish on next Sunday. Bishop Seamus is expected to be principal concelebrant at 11am Mass on Sunday 30th December.
Cake Sale
Many thanks to all who baked or donated cakes for our recent cake sale. Thanks to all who helped out on the day. We also thank Kilkenny Rugby Club for kindly providing the venue for our cake sale. The amount raised was €1,085.
Christmas Candles
Thank you to Fiona and Aisling from the Children’s Choir who made Christmas Candles which they sold after Mass last Sunday. They collected €300 in Aid of Chernobyl Children’s Project. Well done!
Christmas Morning Run
Kilkenny City Harriers will hold their annual Christmas Morning Charity Run. Participants assemble at The Parade, opposite the castle gates, to depart at 11.00am. This years collection goes to the local St Vincent de Paul.
St Mary’s Cathedral
Annual Carol Service
Sunday 23rd December at 7.30pm.
Collection in aid of Cathedral Organ
St. Joseph’s Church
Mass goers are asked not to park cars in the entrance to Kilkenny Rugby Club as this may delay cars crossing the roadway to enter the club grounds. There is ample parking in the car park. Your cooperation would be appreciated.
Remembrance Service
The Irish Sudden Infant Death Association will hold a Remembrance Service in St. John's Community Centre on Friday, 28th December at 11.30am.
The Community Centre is behind St. John’s RC Church. All are welcome to this special remembrance service.
Midnight with the Youth Choir
The youth choir is celebrating 20 years singing at Midnight Mass in the Parish this year. We would like to extend an invitation to all former members of the choir to come along and join with us at Midnight Mass this year. Musicians and singers are welcome.
Exposition
There will be just one hours adoration from 11am to 12 noon at St. Fiacre’s Church on Christmas Eve.
Christmas Greetings
As this is the last newsletter before Christmas the priests and the members of the Parish Team would like to take this opportunity to wish all in our parish a very happy and holy Christmas.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Third Sunday of Advent, December 16th, 2007
Parish Advent Service
We conclude our series of Advent Services at St. Fiacre’s Church on next Thursday evening beginning at 7.30pm.
Advent is a time of preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth and for his Second Coming at the end of time. We invite all to prepare by coming along to St. Fiacre’s Church on next Thursday evening. The time of prayer will include the celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) and extra priests will be in church to help.
This will be an ideal opportunity to seek God’s forgiveness in our build up to Christmas. All welcome.
Christmas Carol Service
The annual Christmas Carol Service featuring the St. Patrick’s Parish Choirs and the St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will be held at St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown on this Sunday, 16th December beginning at 4.30pm. Refreshments afterwards in the clubhouse at the Kilkenny Rugby Club.
Come and enjoy the Spirit of Christmas in a lovely atmosphere.
Cake Sale for Building Fund
A Cake Sale will follow the Christmas Carol Service on this Sunday. Come along to the Rugby Club immediately after the service and purchase from a wonderful selection of homemade cakes and Christmas treats. Proceeds to the building fund. Donations of cakes and home-bakes will be gratefully received before the sale: Contact Rita 772 1129 or Mary 772 1356.
DVD of Bishop’s Ordination
The DVD of the Episcopal Ordination of Most Rev. Séamus Freeman, Bishop of Ossory, is available at the Sacristies in our parish churches and at the Parish Office. Cost €15. The DVD is also available at St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Ossory Diocesan Office, Sion Road.
A Living Masterpiece
To be dead is to stop believing in the masterpieces we will begin tomorrow. So claimed Patrick Kavanagh as cited in John O’Donoghue book, Eternal Echoes (p.19). Too good to be true about the masterpieces, you might think. Well, that depends on how you eye a masterpiece. We can all too easily sell ourselves short. There is more to each of us than meets the eye especially our own. Have you ever surprised your self? Have you ever done something you thought you never could, shown a humanity you didn’t know you had, opened to an insight that took your breath away, gone that extra mile exhausted yet finished quite refreshed? And, have you discovered that exquisitely subversive truth that the more you give, the more you realise you have to give? If so, Isaiah’s words today (35:5-6a) will make sense to you: Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped, then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy. But they will make sense in a way you never dreamed of. You’ll gasp as you grasp that, in fact, they refer to you!
Fr. Tom Cahill
Questions People Ask
Q. ‘Of all the children born of women, a greater than John the Baptist has never been seen; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he is.’ Isn’t this a contradiction? Was Jesus setting up John before slamming him down?
A. This is not a comparison between the holiness of John as an individual and anybody else. Jesus is saying that the Messianic age (the time of the kingdom) surpasses the era of preparation. John is called the greatest in the sense that the time of preparation reached its climax in his mission. The Messianic age has been brought by Jesus. It is like saying that the slowest jet-plane is incomparably faster than the fastest bicycle.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Midnight with the Youth Choir
The youth choir is celebrating 20 years singing at Midnight Mass in the Parish this year. We would like to extend an invitation to all former members of the choir to come along and join with us at Midnight Mass this year. Musicians and singers are welcome.
St. Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band
Annual Christmas Concert
St. Patrick’s Church
Monday, 17th December at 8pm
With: Audrey Larkin, Noel Power, Eugene Dewberry, Traditional Irish Musicians.
Admission Free
St. Patrick’s Parish Draw
The December Draw will take place on Tuesday, 18th December in the Presbytery at 8.30pm. We take this opportunity to thank all our subscribers and promoters for your support and loyalty during 2007.
Sudden Infant Death Association
The Irish Sudden Infant Death Association will hold a Remembrance Service in St. John's Community Centre on Friday, 28th December at 11.30am.
The Community Centre is behind St. John’s RC Church. All are welcome to this special remembrance service.
Christmas - The Season to be Jolly
For many people Christmas can be a time of stress and financial strain. Christmas need not be so stressful. It’s easy to have a stress free Christmas if you are organised, stick to a budget and are realistic about your own expectations. St. Canice’s Credit Union and the St. Vincent de Paul Society have come together to give you some practical tips on how to budget and manage your money in the run up to the Christmas Season. See posters on Church notice boards and pamphlets in Church porches for further details.
St. Vincent De Paul Society
Our parish conference of the St. Vincent De Paul Society will take up their annual Christmas Collection at all Masses this weekend. We invite you to be generous in supporting this very worthy local charity.
The members of the Society are called upon especially at Christmas time to help people in need in our community. Your contribution would help greatly.
Do this in memory...
We welcome those preparing for First Holy Communion and their families and friends to church this weekend. We continue to pray with and for all involved in preparing our young people to celebrate the sacraments.
Children from Gaelscoil Osrai attend 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church while those from St. Patrick’s De La Salle and St. John of God attend 11.00am Mass at St. Patrick’s Church.
Foster a Child
The Health Service Executive Social Work and Child Care Department Carlow/Kilkenny is running a recruitment campaign for children who need to be fostered. If you would like to know more about becoming a foster carer please contact Mairead Pierce, Social Work Team Leader - Fostering, HSE, Community Services Carlow/Kilkenny, or Jane Ryan, Administration on 056 7784532
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Kathleen Redpath, 3 Fr. Walsh Close. Jeremiah Maher, Shankill, Paulstown: Requiem Mass at Paulstown Parish Church at 1.00pm on Sunday followed by interment in Paulstown Cemetery.
Month’s Mind: Rene Brett (Sun 12.30)
Anniversaries: Padraig Butler (Sat 6.15), Dick Lynch (Sat 7.00), Michael Hynes (Sun 9.30), Jayne & Jeffrey Power (Sun 10.00), Florrie Cleere (Sun 10.30), Joe & Nan Mulhall (Sun 11.00), O’Gorman & Gent Families, (Mon 9.30), Patrick Morris (Tues 9.30), Margaret Quinlan (Tues 10.30), Thomas Saunders (Wed 10.30), James Hoyne, Freda Tynan, The O’Mara Family, Patrick, Mary & Rose Wixted, Michael & Mary Kate Morris, David & Simon Morris, Anna Quinn, Laurence Quinn, James Hogan, Jim Dollard, Mary O’Neill, Christy Bateman, Margaret Larkin, John Hayes, Nora Kennedy
Intentions for Next Weekend: Elizabeth Comerford (Sat 6.15), Geraldine Cody (Sat 7.00), Christopher & Mary Coogan (Sun 10.30), George Byrne (Sun 11.00), Margaret & Patrick Cantwell (Sun 12.00), Mary Blanchfield, Dianne Keenan, Jim & P.J. Keenan (Tues 10.30), Betty Furness (Tues 11.00), Mary O’Dwyer (Wed 11.00).
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
OUR CHRISTMAS TIMETABLE
Day Service Venue Time
Sunday, 16th December Carol Service St. Joseph’s Church 4.30pm
Monday, 17th December Christmas Carol Concert St. Patrick’s Church 8.00pm
Thursday, 21st December Penitential Service St. Fiacre’s Church 7.30pm
Monday, 24th December Mass of Christmas Eve St. Fiacre’s Church 9.00pm
Monday, 24th December Mass of Christmas Midnight St. Patrick’s Church, Midnight Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Patrick’s Church 9.30am Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Joseph’s Church 10.00am
Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Fiacre’s Church 10.30am
Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Patrick’s Church 11.00am
Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Fiacre’s Church 12 noon
Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Patrick’s Church 12.30pm
Wed - Sat. 26th - 29th Morning Mass St. Patrick’s Church 11.00am
We conclude our series of Advent Services at St. Fiacre’s Church on next Thursday evening beginning at 7.30pm.
Advent is a time of preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth and for his Second Coming at the end of time. We invite all to prepare by coming along to St. Fiacre’s Church on next Thursday evening. The time of prayer will include the celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) and extra priests will be in church to help.
This will be an ideal opportunity to seek God’s forgiveness in our build up to Christmas. All welcome.
Christmas Carol Service
The annual Christmas Carol Service featuring the St. Patrick’s Parish Choirs and the St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will be held at St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown on this Sunday, 16th December beginning at 4.30pm. Refreshments afterwards in the clubhouse at the Kilkenny Rugby Club.
Come and enjoy the Spirit of Christmas in a lovely atmosphere.
Cake Sale for Building Fund
A Cake Sale will follow the Christmas Carol Service on this Sunday. Come along to the Rugby Club immediately after the service and purchase from a wonderful selection of homemade cakes and Christmas treats. Proceeds to the building fund. Donations of cakes and home-bakes will be gratefully received before the sale: Contact Rita 772 1129 or Mary 772 1356.
DVD of Bishop’s Ordination
The DVD of the Episcopal Ordination of Most Rev. Séamus Freeman, Bishop of Ossory, is available at the Sacristies in our parish churches and at the Parish Office. Cost €15. The DVD is also available at St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Ossory Diocesan Office, Sion Road.
A Living Masterpiece
To be dead is to stop believing in the masterpieces we will begin tomorrow. So claimed Patrick Kavanagh as cited in John O’Donoghue book, Eternal Echoes (p.19). Too good to be true about the masterpieces, you might think. Well, that depends on how you eye a masterpiece. We can all too easily sell ourselves short. There is more to each of us than meets the eye especially our own. Have you ever surprised your self? Have you ever done something you thought you never could, shown a humanity you didn’t know you had, opened to an insight that took your breath away, gone that extra mile exhausted yet finished quite refreshed? And, have you discovered that exquisitely subversive truth that the more you give, the more you realise you have to give? If so, Isaiah’s words today (35:5-6a) will make sense to you: Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped, then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy. But they will make sense in a way you never dreamed of. You’ll gasp as you grasp that, in fact, they refer to you!
Fr. Tom Cahill
Questions People Ask
Q. ‘Of all the children born of women, a greater than John the Baptist has never been seen; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he is.’ Isn’t this a contradiction? Was Jesus setting up John before slamming him down?
A. This is not a comparison between the holiness of John as an individual and anybody else. Jesus is saying that the Messianic age (the time of the kingdom) surpasses the era of preparation. John is called the greatest in the sense that the time of preparation reached its climax in his mission. The Messianic age has been brought by Jesus. It is like saying that the slowest jet-plane is incomparably faster than the fastest bicycle.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Midnight with the Youth Choir
The youth choir is celebrating 20 years singing at Midnight Mass in the Parish this year. We would like to extend an invitation to all former members of the choir to come along and join with us at Midnight Mass this year. Musicians and singers are welcome.
St. Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band
Annual Christmas Concert
St. Patrick’s Church
Monday, 17th December at 8pm
With: Audrey Larkin, Noel Power, Eugene Dewberry, Traditional Irish Musicians.
Admission Free
St. Patrick’s Parish Draw
The December Draw will take place on Tuesday, 18th December in the Presbytery at 8.30pm. We take this opportunity to thank all our subscribers and promoters for your support and loyalty during 2007.
Sudden Infant Death Association
The Irish Sudden Infant Death Association will hold a Remembrance Service in St. John's Community Centre on Friday, 28th December at 11.30am.
The Community Centre is behind St. John’s RC Church. All are welcome to this special remembrance service.
Christmas - The Season to be Jolly
For many people Christmas can be a time of stress and financial strain. Christmas need not be so stressful. It’s easy to have a stress free Christmas if you are organised, stick to a budget and are realistic about your own expectations. St. Canice’s Credit Union and the St. Vincent de Paul Society have come together to give you some practical tips on how to budget and manage your money in the run up to the Christmas Season. See posters on Church notice boards and pamphlets in Church porches for further details.
St. Vincent De Paul Society
Our parish conference of the St. Vincent De Paul Society will take up their annual Christmas Collection at all Masses this weekend. We invite you to be generous in supporting this very worthy local charity.
The members of the Society are called upon especially at Christmas time to help people in need in our community. Your contribution would help greatly.
Do this in memory...
We welcome those preparing for First Holy Communion and their families and friends to church this weekend. We continue to pray with and for all involved in preparing our young people to celebrate the sacraments.
Children from Gaelscoil Osrai attend 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church while those from St. Patrick’s De La Salle and St. John of God attend 11.00am Mass at St. Patrick’s Church.
Foster a Child
The Health Service Executive Social Work and Child Care Department Carlow/Kilkenny is running a recruitment campaign for children who need to be fostered. If you would like to know more about becoming a foster carer please contact Mairead Pierce, Social Work Team Leader - Fostering, HSE, Community Services Carlow/Kilkenny, or Jane Ryan, Administration on 056 7784532
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Kathleen Redpath, 3 Fr. Walsh Close. Jeremiah Maher, Shankill, Paulstown: Requiem Mass at Paulstown Parish Church at 1.00pm on Sunday followed by interment in Paulstown Cemetery.
Month’s Mind: Rene Brett (Sun 12.30)
Anniversaries: Padraig Butler (Sat 6.15), Dick Lynch (Sat 7.00), Michael Hynes (Sun 9.30), Jayne & Jeffrey Power (Sun 10.00), Florrie Cleere (Sun 10.30), Joe & Nan Mulhall (Sun 11.00), O’Gorman & Gent Families, (Mon 9.30), Patrick Morris (Tues 9.30), Margaret Quinlan (Tues 10.30), Thomas Saunders (Wed 10.30), James Hoyne, Freda Tynan, The O’Mara Family, Patrick, Mary & Rose Wixted, Michael & Mary Kate Morris, David & Simon Morris, Anna Quinn, Laurence Quinn, James Hogan, Jim Dollard, Mary O’Neill, Christy Bateman, Margaret Larkin, John Hayes, Nora Kennedy
Intentions for Next Weekend: Elizabeth Comerford (Sat 6.15), Geraldine Cody (Sat 7.00), Christopher & Mary Coogan (Sun 10.30), George Byrne (Sun 11.00), Margaret & Patrick Cantwell (Sun 12.00), Mary Blanchfield, Dianne Keenan, Jim & P.J. Keenan (Tues 10.30), Betty Furness (Tues 11.00), Mary O’Dwyer (Wed 11.00).
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
OUR CHRISTMAS TIMETABLE
Day Service Venue Time
Sunday, 16th December Carol Service St. Joseph’s Church 4.30pm
Monday, 17th December Christmas Carol Concert St. Patrick’s Church 8.00pm
Thursday, 21st December Penitential Service St. Fiacre’s Church 7.30pm
Monday, 24th December Mass of Christmas Eve St. Fiacre’s Church 9.00pm
Monday, 24th December Mass of Christmas Midnight St. Patrick’s Church, Midnight Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Patrick’s Church 9.30am Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Joseph’s Church 10.00am
Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Fiacre’s Church 10.30am
Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Patrick’s Church 11.00am
Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Fiacre’s Church 12 noon
Tuesday, 25th December Mass of Christmas Day St. Patrick’s Church 12.30pm
Wed - Sat. 26th - 29th Morning Mass St. Patrick’s Church 11.00am
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Second Sunday of Advent, 9th December 2007
Parish Advent Service
The next of our Advent Services will take place in St. Fiacre’s Church on Thursday next (13th) starting at 7:30pm.
The service will incorporate the anointing of the sick and all are welcome to attend.
The following Thursday, 20th December, will be our parish penitential service and an ideal opportunity to seek God’s forgiveness in our build up to Christmas. All welcome.
Christmas Carol Service
The annual Christmas Carol Service featuring the St. Patrick’s Parish Choirs and the St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will be held at St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown on next Sunday, 16th December at 4.30pm. Refreshments afterwards in the clubhouse at the Kilkenny Rugby Club. Come and enjoy the Spirit of Christmas in a lovely atmosphere.
Cake Sale for Building Fund
A Cake Sale will follow the Christmas Carol Service on next Sunday. Come along to the Rugby Club immediately after the service and purchase from a wonderful selection of homemade cakes and Christmas treats. Proceeds to the building fund. Donations of cakes and home-bakes will be gratefully received for the sale: Contact Rita 772 1129 or Mary 772 1356 for details.
Questions People Ask
Q. I feel Advent should be a holy season but I always lose the run of myself under the expansion of the commercial and partying side of Christmas. Any advice?
A. Yes, it’s a pity that Advent has been gobbled up by Christmas because the spirituality of Advent is very important. The readings of Advent help us to find Christ in our experience of a spiritual winter, in having to wait on God, or in any terrifying wilderness we have to endure. Maybe less television will give you more time for spiritual reading. Contact a Retreat Centre where there might be something on to suit you. Make a resolution not to become a slave to commercial pressures.
Bishop Freeman Visits Parish
Our new bishop, Most Rev. Séamus Freeman, will be the principal concelebrant at the IWA Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 2.30pm on today, 9th December. Fáilte.
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Phyllis Doran, St. Martin’s, Birchfield, Waterford Road. Brigid Morrissey, Assumption Place. Michael Geary, Donaraille, Cork. Tommy McCorry, Yorkshire, England.
Months Mind: Sr. Marie Kissane, St. John of God Convent; Henrietta Hyland, Ormonde Road; Paul O’Dwyer (Wed 9.30)
Anniversaries: Michael Fitzmaurice (Sat 6.15), Margaret O’Brien (Sat 7.00), Patricia Fitzpatrick (Sun 9.30), Angela Murphy (Sun 10.00), Kitty Dowling & Members of the Dowling Family (Sun 10.30), Eddie Slattery (Sun 11.00), John & Brigid O’Rourke (Sun 12.00), John Carroll (Sun 12.30), Margaret Doyle, Harry O’Connor, Annie Wall, Eric McGrath, Mary McGrath, James Murray, John Egan, Anne Fogarty, Milo & Ann Fry, Sean Ryan, Kitty Ryan, Michael Nolan, The Nolan Family, The Martin Family.
Mass Intentions for Next Weekend: Rena Brett (Months Mind Sun 12.30); Padraig Butler (Sat 6.15), Dick Lynch (Sat 7.00), Michael Hynes (Sun 9.30), Jayne & Jeffrey Power (Sun 10.00), Joe & Nan Mulhall (Sun 11.00), Patrick Morris (Tues 9.30)
Christmas - The Season to be Jolly
For many people Christmas can be a time of stress and financial strain. Christmas need not be so stressful. It’s easy to have a stress free Christmas if you are organised, stick to a budget and are realistic about your own expectations. St. Canice’s Credit Union and the St. Vincent de Paul Society have come together to give you some practical tips on how to budget and manage your money in the run up to the Christmas Season. See posters on Church notice boards and pamphlets in Church porches for further details.
Pope Benedict’s New Encyclical — Spe Salvi
The Irish Catholic Bishops at their December meeting in Maynooth welcomed the publication of the new Encyclical of Pope Benedict XVI, Spe Salvi, which was published last week.
The bishops noted that the theme of Pope Benedict’s first encyclical letter Deus Caritas Est (God Is Love) was love, while the theme of this encyclical Spe Salvi (Saved by Hope) is hope, which is closely related to faith. These are the three virtues by which we relate to God. Spe Salvi asks the faithful to reflect on the following:
· God has shown his face to us in Christ. Can our encounter with God change our lives so that we know we are redeemed through hope?
· The encyclical tells us that we are definitively loved and whatever happens to us in life, we are awaited by God’s love.
· We hope for eternal life, but eternity is not an unending succession of days in the calendar, rather it is something more like the supreme moment of satisfaction in which totality embraces us and we embrace totality. We can only attempt to grasp the idea that such a moment is life in its full sense.
· Christian hope is not individualistic; it has to do with the building up of the common good in this world while at the same time moving towards the fullness of the hope by which we are saved. We must be concerned not just about our own salvation but ask what we can do in order that others may also be saved.
· Placing our trust in anything other than God will in the end fail to satisfy the human heart and will be destructive of true hope.
· When we try to spare ourselves the effort and pain of pursuing truth, love, and goodness, we drift into a life of emptiness, in which there may be almost no pain, but a dark sensation that life is meaningless. We are healed, not by trying to evade all suffering, but rather by our capacity for accepting it, maturing through it and finding meaning through union with Christ, who suffered for us with infinite love.
· Science can contribute greatly to making the world and mankind more human. Yet it can also destroy mankind and the world unless it is steered by forces that lie outside it. On the other hand, we must also acknowledge that modern Christianity, faced with the successes of science in progressively structuring the world, has to a large extent restricted its attention to the individual and his salvation. This can lead to a failure to understand the unlimited horizon of Christian hope.
Full text on Vatican Website: www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/encyclicals
St. Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band
Annual Christmas Concert
St. Patrick’s Church
Monday, 17th December at 8pm
With: Audrey Larkin, Noel Power, Eugene Dewberry, Traditional Irish Musicians.
Admission Free
Divine Mercy
There will be an hour of adoration and prayer in honour of Divine Mercy in St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday December 9th from 3-4pm. All are welcome.
St. Vincent De Paul Society
The local conference of the St. Vincent De Paul Society will take up their annual Christmas Collection at all Masses in Kilkenny City next weekend.
We ask you to be generous in supporting this very worthy local charity.
The members of the Society are called upon especially at Christmas time to help people in need in our community. Your contribution would help greatly.
Sincere thanks to all who have supported this charity throughout the past year.
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Patrick’s Branch of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place on Friday, 14th December after the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church.
The Society promotes and supports vocations to the priesthood and religious life. New members always welcome.
The next of the parish draws takes place on Tuesday the 18th of December. This is a week early on account of Christmas Day falling on the last Tuesday of the month.
If you would like to be included in our draw then contact any of the promoters or sacristans or priests. The draw costs €10 per month and all the money goes towards the building of the new parish centre.
Thanks to Ted and all the promoters who make the draw such a success. We are grateful for your efforts.
Further progress on our building project will be added soon.
Parish Draw
Because Christmas Day falls on the last Tuesday of the month the December Draw will take place on Tuesday, 18th December in the Presbytery at 8.30pm.
We thank all our subscribers and promoters for your support and loyalty during 2007 and we look forward to your continued support in 2008.
The next of our Advent Services will take place in St. Fiacre’s Church on Thursday next (13th) starting at 7:30pm.
The service will incorporate the anointing of the sick and all are welcome to attend.
The following Thursday, 20th December, will be our parish penitential service and an ideal opportunity to seek God’s forgiveness in our build up to Christmas. All welcome.
Christmas Carol Service
The annual Christmas Carol Service featuring the St. Patrick’s Parish Choirs and the St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will be held at St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown on next Sunday, 16th December at 4.30pm. Refreshments afterwards in the clubhouse at the Kilkenny Rugby Club. Come and enjoy the Spirit of Christmas in a lovely atmosphere.
Cake Sale for Building Fund
A Cake Sale will follow the Christmas Carol Service on next Sunday. Come along to the Rugby Club immediately after the service and purchase from a wonderful selection of homemade cakes and Christmas treats. Proceeds to the building fund. Donations of cakes and home-bakes will be gratefully received for the sale: Contact Rita 772 1129 or Mary 772 1356 for details.
Questions People Ask
Q. I feel Advent should be a holy season but I always lose the run of myself under the expansion of the commercial and partying side of Christmas. Any advice?
A. Yes, it’s a pity that Advent has been gobbled up by Christmas because the spirituality of Advent is very important. The readings of Advent help us to find Christ in our experience of a spiritual winter, in having to wait on God, or in any terrifying wilderness we have to endure. Maybe less television will give you more time for spiritual reading. Contact a Retreat Centre where there might be something on to suit you. Make a resolution not to become a slave to commercial pressures.
Bishop Freeman Visits Parish
Our new bishop, Most Rev. Séamus Freeman, will be the principal concelebrant at the IWA Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 2.30pm on today, 9th December. Fáilte.
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Phyllis Doran, St. Martin’s, Birchfield, Waterford Road. Brigid Morrissey, Assumption Place. Michael Geary, Donaraille, Cork. Tommy McCorry, Yorkshire, England.
Months Mind: Sr. Marie Kissane, St. John of God Convent; Henrietta Hyland, Ormonde Road; Paul O’Dwyer (Wed 9.30)
Anniversaries: Michael Fitzmaurice (Sat 6.15), Margaret O’Brien (Sat 7.00), Patricia Fitzpatrick (Sun 9.30), Angela Murphy (Sun 10.00), Kitty Dowling & Members of the Dowling Family (Sun 10.30), Eddie Slattery (Sun 11.00), John & Brigid O’Rourke (Sun 12.00), John Carroll (Sun 12.30), Margaret Doyle, Harry O’Connor, Annie Wall, Eric McGrath, Mary McGrath, James Murray, John Egan, Anne Fogarty, Milo & Ann Fry, Sean Ryan, Kitty Ryan, Michael Nolan, The Nolan Family, The Martin Family.
Mass Intentions for Next Weekend: Rena Brett (Months Mind Sun 12.30); Padraig Butler (Sat 6.15), Dick Lynch (Sat 7.00), Michael Hynes (Sun 9.30), Jayne & Jeffrey Power (Sun 10.00), Joe & Nan Mulhall (Sun 11.00), Patrick Morris (Tues 9.30)
Christmas - The Season to be Jolly
For many people Christmas can be a time of stress and financial strain. Christmas need not be so stressful. It’s easy to have a stress free Christmas if you are organised, stick to a budget and are realistic about your own expectations. St. Canice’s Credit Union and the St. Vincent de Paul Society have come together to give you some practical tips on how to budget and manage your money in the run up to the Christmas Season. See posters on Church notice boards and pamphlets in Church porches for further details.
Pope Benedict’s New Encyclical — Spe Salvi
The Irish Catholic Bishops at their December meeting in Maynooth welcomed the publication of the new Encyclical of Pope Benedict XVI, Spe Salvi, which was published last week.
The bishops noted that the theme of Pope Benedict’s first encyclical letter Deus Caritas Est (God Is Love) was love, while the theme of this encyclical Spe Salvi (Saved by Hope) is hope, which is closely related to faith. These are the three virtues by which we relate to God. Spe Salvi asks the faithful to reflect on the following:
· God has shown his face to us in Christ. Can our encounter with God change our lives so that we know we are redeemed through hope?
· The encyclical tells us that we are definitively loved and whatever happens to us in life, we are awaited by God’s love.
· We hope for eternal life, but eternity is not an unending succession of days in the calendar, rather it is something more like the supreme moment of satisfaction in which totality embraces us and we embrace totality. We can only attempt to grasp the idea that such a moment is life in its full sense.
· Christian hope is not individualistic; it has to do with the building up of the common good in this world while at the same time moving towards the fullness of the hope by which we are saved. We must be concerned not just about our own salvation but ask what we can do in order that others may also be saved.
· Placing our trust in anything other than God will in the end fail to satisfy the human heart and will be destructive of true hope.
· When we try to spare ourselves the effort and pain of pursuing truth, love, and goodness, we drift into a life of emptiness, in which there may be almost no pain, but a dark sensation that life is meaningless. We are healed, not by trying to evade all suffering, but rather by our capacity for accepting it, maturing through it and finding meaning through union with Christ, who suffered for us with infinite love.
· Science can contribute greatly to making the world and mankind more human. Yet it can also destroy mankind and the world unless it is steered by forces that lie outside it. On the other hand, we must also acknowledge that modern Christianity, faced with the successes of science in progressively structuring the world, has to a large extent restricted its attention to the individual and his salvation. This can lead to a failure to understand the unlimited horizon of Christian hope.
Full text on Vatican Website: www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/encyclicals
St. Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band
Annual Christmas Concert
St. Patrick’s Church
Monday, 17th December at 8pm
With: Audrey Larkin, Noel Power, Eugene Dewberry, Traditional Irish Musicians.
Admission Free
Divine Mercy
There will be an hour of adoration and prayer in honour of Divine Mercy in St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday December 9th from 3-4pm. All are welcome.
St. Vincent De Paul Society
The local conference of the St. Vincent De Paul Society will take up their annual Christmas Collection at all Masses in Kilkenny City next weekend.
We ask you to be generous in supporting this very worthy local charity.
The members of the Society are called upon especially at Christmas time to help people in need in our community. Your contribution would help greatly.
Sincere thanks to all who have supported this charity throughout the past year.
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Patrick’s Branch of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place on Friday, 14th December after the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church.
The Society promotes and supports vocations to the priesthood and religious life. New members always welcome.
The next of the parish draws takes place on Tuesday the 18th of December. This is a week early on account of Christmas Day falling on the last Tuesday of the month.
If you would like to be included in our draw then contact any of the promoters or sacristans or priests. The draw costs €10 per month and all the money goes towards the building of the new parish centre.
Thanks to Ted and all the promoters who make the draw such a success. We are grateful for your efforts.
Further progress on our building project will be added soon.
Parish Draw
Because Christmas Day falls on the last Tuesday of the month the December Draw will take place on Tuesday, 18th December in the Presbytery at 8.30pm.
We thank all our subscribers and promoters for your support and loyalty during 2007 and we look forward to your continued support in 2008.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
First Sunday of Advent, Year A, 3rd December 2007
Ordination of Mgr Séamus Freeman, Bishop of OssoryMgr Séamus Freeman will be ordained this weekend as Bishop of Ossory. Mgr Freeman is a native of Callan and a member of the Pallottine Fathers. The principal consecrator will be Archbishop Diarmuid Martin of Dublin and the co-consecrators will be the Apostolic Nuncio, Most Rev. Giuseppe Lazzarotto and former Bishop of Ossory, Most Rev. Laurence Forristal. The occasion will also be the first official function for Cardinal Sean Brady, who is just back from Rome following his elevation last weekend. The retired Archbishop of Dublin, Cardinal Desmond Connell will attend as will many of the bishops of Ireland. These will be joined by retired Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Thomas White, a native of Durrow and priest of the Diocese of Ossory. Retired Church of Ireland Archbishop of Dublin, Walton Empey, will lead the ecumenical representatives.
During the ceremony Mgr Freeman will receive the crozier, the symbol of his pastoral responsibility for the people of Ossory. This crozier, one of the most ancient of Kilkenny’s ecclesiastical symbols, dates back to 1839. Mgr Freeman becomes the eighth Bishop of Ossory to use this crozier, which was used by the then Bishop Kinsella on the occasion of the opening of St Mary’s Cathedral in 1857.
At the end of the ordination rite the Archbishop of Dublin will lead the newly ordained bishop to the chair – the Kathedra – this simple rite installs him as the 94th bishop successor of St Kieran.
At the conclusion of Sunday’s ceremony at 5pm, church bells will ring in all parishes of the diocese to announce the ordination and installation of our new diocesan bishop.
Dignitaries of Church and State will be among the near 1,000 attendance at the Ordination ceremony which begins at 3pm. All are welcome to participate in this ceremony and there will be space for people of the diocese to attend.
New Chapter in Life of Ossory
Church bells throughout the diocese will peal at 5pm on Sunday to herald the installation of Mgr Freeman as Bishop of Ossory. Evoking the tradition that St Kieran received a bell from St Patrick and the commission to build a church where it would ring the church bells of this generation will announce the ordination of Kieran’s 94th successor.
On the eve of his Episcopal ordination Mgr Freeman visited Seir Kieran where that first bell tolled. There, at St Kieran’s Well, Mgr Freeman’s pectoral cross, a gift from the priests of the diocese, was blessed.
Later Mgr Freeman journeyed to Aghaboe the site of the monastic settlement of Sts Canice and Fergal. The people of that parish presented him with a Book of the Gospels reminding him of the work of Canice at this holy site. The faith journey concluded in St. Mary’s Church, Coolagh, in the parish of Callan, where Mgr Freeman served Mass.
Ceremony to be Broadcast
KCLR96FM will broadcast the Ordination Ceremony of Mgr Séamus Freeman, Bishop-Elect of Ossory, from 3.00 pm on Sunday. If you can’t be there, tune in to be part of this great diocesan event.
The Immaculate Conception
Next Saturday is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Beginning on Friday evening parish Masses will follow the usual weekend pattern.
Traditional Carol Service
The annual traditional Carol Service with St. Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band with the combined choirs of St. Patrick’s Parish will be held on Sunday, 16th December at 4.30pm in Foulkstown Church. Join us after the service for seasonal refreshments.
Widows’ Association
The association will hold their annual Christmas dinner on 11th December in the Club House Hotel at 1pm. All widows welcome.
Special Advent Services
Our parish will host special Advent services at St. Patrick’s Church on the three Thursdays of Advent (December 6th, 13th and 20th). All are welcome to come along and join in preparing for Christmas at 7.30pm on this Thursday evening.
Cake and Craft Sale
Following the Traditional Carol Service at St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown on Sunday, 16th December there will be a special Cake and Craft Sale at the Kilkenny Rugby Club (by kind permission). Proceeds in aid of the new Parish Centre. Come, sing traditional carols and get some nice treats for Christmas.
Candlelight Procession
The annual Candlelight Rosary Procession will leave the Parade at 8pm on Saturday, 8th December proceeding to the Black Abbey for Benediction. All welcome.
Westcourt News
The December Mass for the canonisation of Blessed Edmund Rice will be celebrated in Westcourt on Monday, 3rd December at 7pm. The members of the St. Joseph's Young Priests’ Society are preparing the liturgy for this Mass. All are cordially invited to join in this special celebration.
Village Crafts
Christmas Exhibition & Sale at Ormonde College on Saturday & Sunday, 1st and 2nd December. Woodturners: Mick Morrissey, Canice Ryan, Ciaran Walsh and artist Pat Holland will exhibit.
Rosary
The Monthly Rosary on the first Sunday in James Green at the statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny continues on Sunday, 2nd December 3pm. All are welcome.
Pat’s Cabaret...
In Delaney’s Bar, Patrick Street on Monday night next. In aid of charity. Please support.
S.O.S. Craft Fair
The S.O.S. Craft Fair and coffee afternoon takes place on Sunday, 9th December from 2pm to 5pm. Everyone is welcome. Admission is free. (Note change of date from that previously announced).
Peace in Christ
The Retreat House Team would like to thank all who contributed so generously to the recent collection in aid of Peace in Christ Diocesan Retreat House. In particular we would like to thank those who organised and carried our the collection on our behalf. The amount collected in St. Patrick’s Parish was €1,250.00. Thank you.
Christmas with Creidim
To celebrate Christmas Creidim is delighted to have the company of Mr. Christy Kenneally, who will share with us his reflections on the true meaning of Christmas. He will reflect on how the inner child in all of us is nourished by the incarnation.
Guest: Mr. Christy Kenneally
Date: Monday, 10th December
Venue: St. Kieran’s College
Time: 8pm. Cost: €20
Booking essential
Christy Kenneally is a well known TV presenter, scriptwriter and author. He scripted and presented a series for television on the great religions of the world as experienced through their art and architecture entitled Heaven on Earth. Christy has also written extensively on the subject of bereavement and loss.
Concert
Liam Lawton will give a concert in St John's Catholic Church, Dublin Road, Kilkenny on Tuesday, 4th December at 8.00pm. Tickets available at the Book Centre, High Street; Anne's Newsagent, John Street; Gray's Electrical Shop, John Street and St John's Parish Office. Tickets €25. No reserved seating. Bring a cushion for your own comfort. Parking: MacDonagh Junction and John’s Green.
The S.O.S. Craft Fair and coffee afternoon takes place on Sunday, 9th December from 2pm to 5pm. Everyone is welcome. Admission is free. (Note change of date from that previously announced).
Peace in Christ
The Retreat House Team would like to thank all who contributed so generously to the recent collection in aid of Peace in Christ Diocesan Retreat House. In particular we would like to thank those who organised and carried our the collection on our behalf. The amount collected in St. Patrick’s Parish was €1,250.00. Thank you.
Christmas with Creidim
To celebrate Christmas Creidim is delighted to have the company of Mr. Christy Kenneally, who will share with us his reflections on the true meaning of Christmas. He will reflect on how the inner child in all of us is nourished by the incarnation.
Guest: Mr. Christy Kenneally
Date: Monday, 10th December
Venue: St. Kieran’s College
Time: 8pm. Cost: €20
Booking essential
Christy Kenneally is a well known TV presenter, scriptwriter and author. He scripted and presented a series for television on the great religions of the world as experienced through their art and architecture entitled Heaven on Earth. Christy has also written extensively on the subject of bereavement and loss.
Concert
Liam Lawton will give a concert in St John's Catholic Church, Dublin Road, Kilkenny on Tuesday, 4th December at 8.00pm. Tickets available at the Book Centre, High Street; Anne's Newsagent, John Street; Gray's Electrical Shop, John Street and St John's Parish Office. Tickets €25. No reserved seating. Bring a cushion for your own comfort. Parking: MacDonagh Junction and John’s Green.
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Sr. Frances Jude Hogan, St. Patrick’s, Kells Road.
Month’s Mind: Mary Mulrooney (Sat 7.00), Barbara Rhatigan (Fri 7.00).
Anniversaries: Tom O’Dowd (Sat 6.15), Jim Mulrooney (Sat 7.00), Laurence Healy (Sun 10.30), Kathleen Browne (Sun 11.00), Michael Dwyer (Sun 12.00), Thomas Dowling (Sun 12.30), Elaine Kelly (Tue 10.30), Molly Murray, Syl Gaffney, Eddie McEvoy, Eileen Barry, Catherine Bambrick, Thomas & Margaret Beehan, John Wallace, Jeremiah Mullally, Tom Brett, Mary Delaney, Catherine Connors, Hugh Tiernan, Angela Murphy, Margaret & James Purcell.
Next Weekend: Barbara Rhatigan (Months Mind, Fri 7.00), Margaret Doyle (Sat 10.00), Harry Joe O’Connor (Sat 10.30), Sr. Marie Kissane (Months Mind Sat11.00), Henrietta Hyland (Months Mind Sat 12.30), Michael Fitzmaurice (Sat 6.15), Margaret O’Brien (Sat 7.00), Patricia Fitzpatrick (Sun 9.30), Angela Murphy (Sun 10.00), The Dowling Family (Sun 10.30), Eddie Slattery (Sun 11.00), John & Brigid O’Rourke (Sun 12.00), John Carroll (12.30).
Family Liturgy
We welcome our Family Liturgy Group to the 10.30am Mass on Sundays. The young people practice at St. Fiacre’s Church on Thursdays between 6.00 and 7.00pm. All young people and their parents are welcome to come along and join in preparing the prayers, and mass.
First Friday of December
The priests will visit as usual this week. Contact 776 4400 if you would like to add your name to the lists.
Kilkenny Lions Club
Christmas Hamper and Charity Appeal featuring: CBS Boys’ Choir, Kilkenny College Jazz Band & Junior Choir & Chamber Choir, St. John’s Senior School Orchestra & Choir, St. Canice’s Co-Ed Recorder Ensemble & Jazz Band, Cor Ghaelscoil Osrai 4th Class Choir & Musical Group, Castlecomer Community School Choir, at St. Canice’s Cathedral on Thursday, 6th December at 8pm. Admission at the door: €10/€4. All welcome.
November Parish Draw
Thanks to all who supported our draw. The winners are as follows...
1st €1,000 Bridget Woodgate
2nd €200 Nicholas Huntley
3rd €100 Kay Whelan
4th €100 Maria Kelly
5th €100 Marie Maher
6th €100 Frank & Marie Marshall
7th €100 Mary Lawlor
8th €100 Billy Murphy
9th €50 Teresa Walsh
10th €50 Eileen McGrath
11th €50 Geraldine Phelan
12th €50 Paddy & Mary Ward
13th €50 Catherine & Cathal Cullen
Promoters’ Prize: Maureen McCormack and Paddy Ward.
Family Liturgy
We welcome our Family Liturgy Group to the 10.30am Mass on Sundays. The young people practice at St. Fiacre’s Church on Thursdays between 6.00 and 7.00pm. All young people and their parents are welcome to come along and join in preparing the prayers, and mass.
First Friday of December
The priests will visit as usual this week. Contact 776 4400 if you would like to add your name to the lists.
Kilkenny Lions Club
Christmas Hamper and Charity Appeal featuring: CBS Boys’ Choir, Kilkenny College Jazz Band & Junior Choir & Chamber Choir, St. John’s Senior School Orchestra & Choir, St. Canice’s Co-Ed Recorder Ensemble & Jazz Band, Cor Ghaelscoil Osrai 4th Class Choir & Musical Group, Castlecomer Community School Choir, at St. Canice’s Cathedral on Thursday, 6th December at 8pm. Admission at the door: €10/€4. All welcome.
November Parish Draw
Thanks to all who supported our draw. The winners are as follows...
1st €1,000 Bridget Woodgate
2nd €200 Nicholas Huntley
3rd €100 Kay Whelan
4th €100 Maria Kelly
5th €100 Marie Maher
6th €100 Frank & Marie Marshall
7th €100 Mary Lawlor
8th €100 Billy Murphy
9th €50 Teresa Walsh
10th €50 Eileen McGrath
11th €50 Geraldine Phelan
12th €50 Paddy & Mary Ward
13th €50 Catherine & Cathal Cullen
Promoters’ Prize: Maureen McCormack and Paddy Ward.
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