Ash Wednesday and Lent
Next Wednesday, 17th February is Ash Wednesday and marks the first day of Lent 2010. Ashes will be blessed and distributed at all public Masses in the parish on Wednesday. Ash is a symbol of penance made sacramental by the blessing of the Church, and they help us develop a spirit of humility and sacrifice.
Masses During Lent
For your convenience we provide an extra parish Mass during Lent: beginning on Ash Wednesday as well as Masses at 9.30am (St. Patrick’s Church) and 10.30am (St. Fiacre’s Church) we will also have a Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 6.15 each weekday evening during Lent. Why not make attending daily Mass your objective for Lent?
Ashes at the Shopping Centres
The four city parishes have decided to provide blessed ashes to shoppers at the Market Cross and McDonagh Shopping Centres on this Ash Wednesday. Volunteer Eucharistic Ministers are required to attend at the tables and offer the ashes. Please contact the sacristans if you can offer an hour or two.
Senior Citizens’ Parish Party
By all accounts everybody had a wonderful evening at last Monday’s party for the senior citizens of St. Patrick’s Parish. Over one hundred and thirty people sat down to a wonderful four course meal followed by an excellent evening’s dancing to Marble City Sound. Well done to everybody involved.
Do This in Memory Programme
We welcome those preparing for First Holy Communion to 10.30am and 11.00am Mass on this Sunday. The Do This in Memory Programme encourages family members and parish communities to involve themselves in the children’s preparation for the Sacrament.
Knitting Night
Knitters meet at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Mondays at 7.30pm. ‘Cast on and come along’.
Readers and Eucharistic Ministers
Conscious that so many people volunteer to serve as Readers of the Word and Eucharistic Ministers, the Ossory Adult Faith Development Committee has decided to offer an evening of prayer and reflection for those who work in these areas. It is hoped that these evenings will provide an opportunity for our Readers and Eucharistic Ministers to reflect upon and deepen their understanding of contribution they make to the liturgical life of our parish.
We invite all of our Readers and Eucharistic Ministers to avail of this opportunity. Our parish is invited to attend on Tuesday, 16th March in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Loughboy from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.
If you are a Reader or Eucharistic Minister why not consider making this part of your Lenten journey? If you are free to attend please give your name to the Sacristan or Parish Office so that we can pass on the approximate numbers to the organisers.
Religious Goods
The religious goods shop in the Parish Centre will be open for a while after 10.30am Mass on Sunday. Come along and view a wide variety of First Holy Communion and Confirmation items among the religious goods on offer.
Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes
The annual diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes under the patronage of Bishop Séamus Freeman will take place from 22nd to 27th May inclusive. Price €720 p.p.s. All bookings through Glenmore Parish Office on 051 880 414 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10.30am to 2.30pm.
St. Patrick’s Lourdes Committee
This parish group raises funds to help a number of deserving parishioners travel to Lourdes with the annual diocesan pilgrimage. They are currently accepting nominations for the this year’s pilgrimage. Please contact any member of the committee or one of the priests if you, or someone known to you, would like to be considered for travel.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Daphne Phelan, Ashurst. Reposing at her home from 2.00pm on Sunday. Funeral prayers at 10.45am on Monday followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church for Requiem Mass at 11.30am Burial in St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Rory Quinn, London and formerly of Cedarwood Avenue. Funeral prayers at Johnston's Funeral Home at 6.30pm on Thursday followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church. Requiem Mass at 12.00 noon on Friday followed by burial at Foulkstown Cemetery. Kathleen O’Connell, late 4 Castlecomer Road: Requiem Mass at St. John’s Church at 10.30am on Monday. Mary Wash, Vicar Street; Requiem at St. Canice’s at 11.30am on Sunday. John Hennessy, Blackacre, Paulstown; Requiem Mass at Paulstown Church at 2.00pm on Sunday. Josephine Fitzgerald, Hebron Park; Requiem Mass at St. Canice’s Church at 12.00 noon on Monday. Paddy Bourke, Archers Crescent. Christina Kelly (nee Nugent), England and formerly of Kells Road.
Anniversaries: John O’Rourke (Sat 6.15), Michael Walsh & Milo Bourke (Sat 7.00), David Maher (Sun 10.00), Molly Johnston (Sun 10.30), Eileen Cummins (Sun 11.00), Peter Quinn (Sun 12.00), Ciss Lafferty (Sun 12.30), Patrick Morris (Thurs 9.30), Jenny Clancy (Fri 6.15), John & Bridget Dunne, Eileen Cummins, Pierce Comerford, Seamus Culleton, Michael Daly, John Corcoran.
Intentions for next weekend: Nicholas Healy (Sat 6.15), Mary Lynch (Sat 7.00), Mick & Ellen Doyle (Sun 10.00), Patrick McKenna (Sun 11.00 Months Mind), Canice & Michael Daly (Sun 12.00).
Children's Liturgy
We invite adults interested in helping with the Children’s Liturgy at the 10.30am Sunday Mass to a short meeting at the Parish Centre on Tuesday evening at 8.00pm. The idea is to plan the liturgy for the following Sundays. We appeal to all willing to help to come along.
Young people are invited to come to a practice at St. Fiacre’s Church after the 6.15pm Mass on Thursday evening. Please come along.
A Lenten Invitation
“Come Away and Rest Awhile”
Take time on Tuesday mornings of Lent to reflect and pray in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
Venue: St. Patrick’s Parish Centre
Time: 11am to 12 noon
Dates: 23rd February, 2nd, 9th, 16th 23rd and 30th March.
Facilitator: Eileen Ross, Qualified Spiritual Guide
Divine Mercy Prayer
There will be an hour of adoration and prayer in honour of Divine Mercy in the Friary Church on Sunday, 14th February from 3.00 to 4.00pm. Please come.
Angels and Demons: the True Story
This series of lectures by Fr. Joe Delaney continues from 8.00pm - 9.30pm each Wednesday evening at St. John’s Day Centre, beside St. John’s RC Church.
17th February: The Ministry of Angels (8.30pm)
3rd March: Demonic Entry Points: The Occult & Alternative Therapies
10th March: The Effects of Generational Sin
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novena
The Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help will take place in St. John’s Church, Kilkenny from Monday, 22nd February to Tuesday, 2nd March. The novena will be directed by Redemptorists: Fr John Hanna, Fr Kieran Brady and Fr Tony Rice. During the novena there will be Mass at 7.30am, 10.30am and 7.30pm. Preparation for each session will be 15 minutes before each Mass. Thursday will be devoted to the Sacrament of Reconciliation. All welcome.
Young Singers Wanted
The Youth Choir is growing. About 10 people attend guitar lessons in the Parish Centre on Mondays. We are in need of some singers to accompany them. If you have an hour to spare please come along to the Parish Centre at 7.00pm on Mondays.
Second Hand Books
Wanted: second hand books in aid of K.A.S.M.H.A. Please phone or text 086 732 4554. We will collect.
Art Classes for Beginners
Art classes to introduce you to various classical painting and drawing will take place in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre staring on Monday, 22nd February at 7.30 pm. The classes will run for 8 weeks from 7.30 - 9.30pm and the fee is €80 which includes most materials. To book your place or for further information please contact Sonjaon 083 394 1220 or 056 770 8155.
Dochas na Samu Clothing Appeal
An Irish Run Orphanage is holding a used clothing appeal. Children’s, ladies and gents clothing required. The collection will take place on Wednesday, 17th February before 12 noon at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Loughboy. For information call Marie on 087 689 0995.
Loughboy Library News
Deaf Culture Books - Kilkenny Library Service and DeafHear have assembled a collection of materials relating to deaf culture at Loughboy Library. This collection is suitable for adults and children and includes the ABC of Sign Language on DVD, books and CD ROMs.
The First World War - Kilkenny Photographic Society has compiled a collection of photographs of Kilkenny personnel from WWI—this is on display until 19th February.
Questions People Ask
Q. After the recent news about sinful priests, how can I be sure that I was properly baptised, confirmed or absolved? Is that priest at the altar on Sunday a sinner?
A. The validity of the sacraments does not depend on the spiritual state of the priest or bishop as the grace of any sacrament comes from the compassion and power of Jesus Christ, who is the Head of his Body, the Church. The fact is that no priest is totally free from sin. That was the unique privilege of Mary, ‘our tainted nature’s solitary boast’ (Tennyson).
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Divine Mercy Prayer
There will be an hour of adoration and prayer in the Friary Church on Sunday, 14th February from 3.00 to 4.00pm. Please come.
Alzheimer's Society Kilkenny
Table Quiz will be held at the Home Rule Club at 8.30pm on 19th February. Table of 4: €20.
Danesfort Bingo
The Danesfort Community and Parish Centre (at the rear of St. Michael’s Church) hosts bingo on every Wednesday at 8.30pm.
Hard of Hearing?
Hearing Help and lipreading classes start on Monday, 8th February. Morning classes will be held at Deafhear Offices, Friary Street from 10.30am - 12.30pm and Evening classes at The Citizens’ Information Centre, The Parade.
Grande Finale
The Hubble Space Telescope has shown the universe in such incredible detail that it has transformed the way scientists view it. For example, Hubble has honed down the estimate of the universe’s age to between 13 and 14 billion years. It was instrumental in discovering dark energy – that mysterious force that accelerates the expansion of the universe. And, it has revealed galaxies at all stages of their evolution: from wobbly toddlers to the end-time collapse of their massive stars. Among the world’s most important observatories ever, Hubble will degrade until it can’t function. Its life expectancy is perhaps five more years. However, the rejuvenation it got in May 2009 from the crew of the space shuttle Atlantis will enable it to go out in a blaze of glory. Hubble’s last years will be its best.
The same often holds true for people. Senior ones, when they’ve lived good lives, have so much to offer. We should never be tempted to think that we’re past it of have become useless. The doing may be less urgent, varied or demanding, but the being becomes more important than ever. The older we are privileged to get, when open to God’s Spirit, the more we give witness to the truth of what Paul writes about in today’s Second Reading (1 Cor 15:12, 16-20) We are called to resurrection – a resurrection that begins today, or for the fortunate ones, yesterday.
As Hubble has revolutionized scientists’ view of the universe, so too can every person whose resurrection has begun revolutionise the outlook and behaviour of those still awaiting theirs.
Fr Tom Cahill SVD
Good Grief - Bald Statements
This is an exhibition of alabaster sculptures illustrating feelings of grief and loss from sculptor Jean Parker. The exhibition was born as a reflection of Jean’s own experience of cancer and relate not only to loss of health but to significant loss of any kind. The exhibition is open to the public from 10.00am until 4.00pm each day until Thursday, 18th February at St. John’s Church of Ireland, John Street, Kilkenny.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 7th February 2010
Senior Citizens’ Parish Party
The annual party for the senior citizens in our parish will be held at the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on this Monday, 8th February. With a four course meal provided by the Club House Hotel and music by Marble City Sound a great evening is anticipated in our Parish Centre. We hope as many as possible will take the opportunity to come along and enjoy a marvellous social evening.
Tickets are great value at €10 for a four course meal, a drink and great entertainment. Booking is essential to facilitate efficient catering on the evening. (We hope nobody will be excluded because of the price - contact one of the priests if this becomes an issue for you.) Tickets are available at the Parish Office and at the sacristies in all our churches.
Readers and Eucharistic Ministers
Conscious that so many people volunteer to serve as Readers of the Word and Eucharistic Ministers, the Ossory Adult Faith Development Committee has decided to offer an evening of prayer and reflection for those who work in these areas. It is hoped that these evenings will provide an opportunity for our Readers and Eucharistic Ministers to reflect upon and deepen their understanding of contribution they make to the liturgical life of our parish.
We invite all of our Readers and Eucharistic Ministers to avail of this opportunity. Our parish is invited to attend on Tuesday, 16th March in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Loughboy from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.
If you are a Reader or Eucharistic Minister why not consider making this part of your Lenten journey? If you are free to attend please give your name to the Sacristan or Parish Office so that we can pass on the approximate numbers to the organisers.
Come for a ‘Cuppa’ after Mass
All are invited to the Parish Centre for a cup of tea/coffee and a chat after Mass on Tuesday mornings. Drop in and meet your neighbours.
Our Lady of Lourdes
Next Thursday is the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. On 11th February 1858, in Lourdes, France, Our Lady appeared for the first time to Bernadette who was then fourteen years old. In total, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared 18 times, the last apparition was 16th July 1858.
Day of the Sick
World Day for the Sick is celebrated every year on the 11th February, the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.
In the his message for the World Day of the Sick 2010 Pope Benedict XVI writes “In the mystery of Christ’s passion, death and resurrection human suffering finds meaning and fullness of light. ... At the Last Supper the Lord Jesus, before returning to the Father, bent to wash the Apostles’ feet in a foretaste of His supreme act of love upon the Cross. With this gesture He invited His disciples to follow His own logic of a love that especially gives itself to the weakest and to those most in need. Following His example all Christians are called to relive, in different contexts, the parable of the Good Samaritan”.
“Jesus”, says the Holy Father, “exhorts us to attend to the bodily and spiritual wounds of so many of our brothers and sisters whom we meet on the roads of the world. He helps us to understand that, with the grace of God accepted and lived in everyday life, the experience of sickness and suffering can become a school of hope”.
Black Abbey Triduum
The annual Triduum in honour of our Lady of Lourdes will be held at the Black Abbey on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 9th, 10th and 11th February. Rosary and Mass with homily each day at 10.15am and 7.15pm. The preacher this year is Fr. Gabriel Harty O.P. (Ireland’s Rosary Priest). Wednesday is World Day of the Sick and the Sacrament of the Sick will be celebrated at both sessions. Confession available each day. All are welcome.
Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes
The annual diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes under the patronage of Bishop Séamus Freeman will take place from 22nd to 27th May inclusive. Price €720 p.p.s. All bookings for both regular and assisted pilgrims through Glenmore Parish Office on 051 880 414 on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10.30am to 2.30pm.
St. Patrick’s Lourdes Committee
This group raises funds to help a number of deserving parishioners travel to Lourdes with the annual diocesan pilgrimage. They are currently accepting nominations for the this year’s pilgrimage. Please contact any member of the committee or one of the priests if you or someone known to you would like to be considered for travel.
Young Singers Wanted
Members of the Youth Choir are holding guitar lessons in the Parish Centre every Monday evening. We have a group of 10 young people who are learning to play the guitar but we are in need of some singers to accompany them. If you have an hour to spare please come along to the Parish Centre at 7.00pm on Monday.
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre after the 10.30am Mass in St. Fiacre’s Church on Friday, 12th February. New members very welcome.
Monthly Rosary
The monthly rosary on the first Sunday of the month will be recited at the Statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny, James Green, Kilkenny on this Sunday, 7th February at 3.00pm. All are welcome.
Young At Heart Club
The Club reopened on Wednesday, 3rd February at the Parish Centre and continues to meet every Wednesday between 2.30pm and 4.30pm. All are welcome.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Anniversaries: Catherine Dunphy (Sat 6.15 Months Mind), St. Theophane Duggan (Sat 7.00), Dr. Richard Purcell (Sun 9.30), Sean O’Grady (Sun 10.00), Pat Kearney (Sun 10.30), Frances Costello (Sun 11.00), Peadar Flanagan (Sun 12.00), Jimmy McGrath (Sun 12.30), Andrew Price (Tue 10.30), Daniel (Algie) Lanigan (Wed 10.30), Eleanar Mulvee (Thur 10.30), Bridie Dunne, Margo Doran, John Quigley, James Hayes, Bill Carroll, Liam Devlin, Eamon Tallent, Breda Butler, Peggy Brennan, Elizabeth Kavanagh.
Intentions for next weekend: John O’Rourke (Sat 6.15), Michael Walsh & Milo Bourke (Sat 7.00), David Maher (Sun 10.00), Eileen Cummins (Sun 11.00), Peter Quinn (Sun 12.00), Ciss Lafferty (Sun 12.30).
Enrolments in Parish Schools
The St. Patrick’s De La Salle Boys’ School and the St. John of God Girls’ School are currently dealing with enrolment applications for September 2010. Please contact the schools for further details.
St. Patrick’s De La Salle School: 056 776 1081
St. John of God School: 056 772 1290.
Do This in Memory
The next event in the Do This in Memory programme for this year’s First Holy Communion classes, their families and our parish congregations will be on next Sunday. We look forward to having the young people and their families at the 10.30am and 11.00am Masses.
Questions People Ask
Q. What does holy mean?
A. I consider holy to be one of the most expressive words in the English language. It is a word that comes up from the depths of the lungs, expressing a sigh for the infinite God who is over all, beyond all and within all. When Peter saw the power of Jesus manifested in the huge haul of fish, he experienced the otherness or holiness of God in contrast to his own frailty or sinfulness. Form your breath into that word, holy, and it becomes a mantra sighing for God.
Ash Wednesday and Lent
Wednesday, 17th February is Ash Wednesday and marks the first day of Lent 2010. Please consider using this special time in preparation for the celebration of Easter.
A Lenten Invitation
“Come Away and Rest Awhile”
Take time on Tuesday mornings of Lent to reflect and pray in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
Venue: St. Patrick’s Parish Centre
Time: 11am to 12 noon
Dates: 23rd February, 2nd, 9th, 16th 23rd and 30th March.
Facilitator: Eileen Ross, Qualified Spiritual Guide
Knitting Night
A Knitting Night will commence in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on next Monday, 8th February at 7.30pm. A few hours of knitting and chatting. All are welcome so ‘cast on and come along’.
Angels and Demons: the True Story
This series of lectures by Fr. Joe Delaney continues from 8.00pm - 9.30pm each Wednesday evening at St. John’s Day Centre, beside St. John’s RC Church.
10th February: Spiritual Warfare
17th February: The Ministry of Angels
3rd March: Demonic Entry Points: The Occult & Alternative Therapies
10th March: The Effects of Generational Sin
Good Grief - Bald Statements
This is an exhibition of eight alabaster sculptures illustrating feelings of grief and loss from sculptor Jean Parker. The exhibition was born as a reflection of Jean’s own experience of cancer and relate not only to loss of health but to significant loss of any kind. The exhibition may prove helpful and reassuring, offering glimpses of hope when all seems lost.
The exhibition is open to the public from 10.00am until 4.00pm each day until Thursday, 18th February at St. John’s Church of Ireland, John Street, Kilkenny. Admission is free although groups from schools etc should book in advance by calling 087 236 3100.
Alzheimer's Society Kilkenny
Table Quiz in aid of the Kilkenny Alzheimer’s Society will be held at the Home Rule Club at 8.30pm on 19th February. Table of Four: €20.
Church Gate Collection
Enable Ireland (The O’Neill Centre) has asked us to announce their church gate collection outside all Masses next weekend.
Scripture Study Group
Integritas - a domestic centre of Christian spirituality - hosts a scripture study group at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of every month. The evening on 18th February will reflect upon chapters 7 and 8 of St. Mark’s Gospel. Feel welcome to attend this session even if you can only do so occasionally. Integritas is located at Ennisnag. Enquiries: 056 772 8902.
Bingo
The Danesfort Community and Parish Centre (at the rear of St. Michael’s Church) hosts bingo on every Wednesday at 8.30pm. Shop available.
Hard of Hearing?
Hearing Help and lipreading classes start on Monday, 8th February. Morning classes will be held at Deafhear Offices, Friary Street from 10.30am - 12.30pm and Evening classes at The Citizens’ Information Centre, The Parade Kilkenny from 8.00pm – 10.00pm. All are welcome. Telephone 776 5176 or 776 3508 for more information.
Loughboy Library News
Deaf Culture Books—Kilkenny Library Service and the DeafHear organisation have assembled a new collection of materials relating to deaf culture at Loughboy Library. This collection is suitable for adults and children and includes the ABC of Sign Language on DVD, books and CD ROMs.
The First World War—Kilkenny Photographic Society has compiled a collection of photographs of Kilkenny personnel from WWI—this is on display until 19th February.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 31st January 2010
Catholic Schools Week 2010
31st January – 7th February
To Parents, Chairperson and Members of Boards of Management, Principals and Teachers
Priests of the Diocese and all involved in Catholic Schools in Ossory
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
In these difficult days for the Church community in Ireland it is good that we can take time to reflect on the very positive contribution that all who are involved in Catholic Education continue to make to the mission of the local Church and to society in general. The coming week heralds the commencement of Catholic Schools Week an initiative which focuses on the identity of the Catholic School as a centre of education and formation of the young person in every aspect of their lives. This event is also an important time for Catholics in Ireland to express their solidarity with all of those involved in schools. The theme of Catholic Schools Week this year is ‘The Catholic School - A light for every generation’. This light is especially visible when it is expressed through an ethos that promotes; a profound respect for the dignity & giftedness of the human person, prayer, appropriate catechesis, and a fruitful partnership with the home and local parish. It reminds us that we are constantly challenged to let the light of Christ shine for the present generation and this will remain part of our task for future generations also.
The Second Vatican Council’s declaration on Education states ‘Beautiful indeed and of great importance is the vocation of all those who aid parents in fulfilling their duties and who, as representatives of the human community, undertake the task of education in schools’. We are truly blessed in the diocese of Ossory that so many people give of themselves generously in the service of Catholic Education. I know I speak for all the people of the diocese when I express sincere thanks to all of you; to parents who continually entrust the formation of their children academically, spiritually, and as good human beings to our Catholic Schools; to principals and teachers who day after day are involved in the formation of children and young people; to all who serve on boards of management and parent’s councils; those who act as special needs assistants, people who work as secretaries and all who are involved in the cleaning and maintenance of our schools. During this year of the Priest a special word of thanks for the commitment of our priests who through their involvement in boards of management, visitation of the classroom, and through encouraging teachers and parents in the ways of faith fulfil their mission given at ordination to be educators of the faith.
Finally I pray that the celebration of Catholic Schools Week and all our endeavours to promote a Catholic ethos will help us to appreciate the great treasure our Catholic faith is and the light it has been for past generations and that which it will be for future followers of Jesus Christ.
With every good wish.
Bishop Seamus Freeman SAC
Catholic Schools Week
Catholic Schools Week gives us the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the tremendous contribution that our Catholic primary and post-primary schools make, not just to Irish society, but to the mission of the Church.
In our parish we give thanks for parents and teachers, members of the boards of management and parent’s associations, special needs assistants, people who work as secretaries, all who are involved in cleaning and maintenance, priests and the many others who give their time and energy in ensuring that our children receive the best education possible and are given the ability to realise their full potential as human beings and as children of God.
This year the theme for the week is ‘Catholic Schools - A Light for Every Generation’. Catholic schools are committed to the education and formation of the young person in every aspect of their lives. Thus Catholic schools are a light for parents, pupils, family members, staff and society in every generation.
St. God of God Girls’ School
The St. John of God Girls’ School will celebrate Catholic Schools Week with a Mass at St. Patrick’s Church at 1.15pm on Friday next. Parents and grandparents of the children are especially invited to attend as are all members of our parish community.
We Celebrate Consecrated Life
World Day of Consecrated Life is the day we celebrate the gift of Religious Life to the Church. Initiated by the Vatican in 1997, this day is an opportunity to celebrate the life and work of religious women and men and to pray for vocations to consecrated life. In St. Patrick’s Parish we have several communities of the St. John of God Sisters, members of the Sisters of Charity and Mill Hill Fathers, a missionary congregation.
Bishop Freeman will be principal celebrant at the Mass of Consecrated Life in St. Mary's Cathedral on Tuesday, 2nd February at 7.30pm. All are welcome to join in this celebration of thanksgiving for consecrated life.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Maureen Teehan, Ballyfoyle. Sarah Kennedy, Cahir. Catherine Mahon, Paulstown. Sr. Canice Broderick, Mercy Convent, Callan: requiem Mass at 12.00pm on Sunday.
Anniversaries: Pauline English (Sat 6.15), Jim Loughlin (Sat 7.00), Noeleen Flood (Sun 10.00), John & Ann Waldron (Sun 10.30), Michael Moore (Sun 11.00), Jack Comerford (Sun 12.00), Michael Dollard (Sun 12.30, Months Mind), Catherine & Joseph Brennan (Tues 10.30), Patrick O’Keeffe (Wed 9.30), Lil, Billy & Eamon Costelloe (Wed 10.30), Con Noonan, John & Annie Free, William, Ellen & Liam Bergin, Derek De Loughrey, William Culleton, Maura Gaffney, Patrick Walsh, Margaret Fanning, Ned Larkin, May Morris Allen, Paddy Morris, Peter Browne, Jimmy Browne, Moya Bligh.
Intentions for next weekend: Catherine Dunphy (Sat 6.15 Months Mind), St. Theophane Duggan (Sat 7.00), Dr. Richard Purcell (Sun 9.30), Pat Kearney (Sun 10.30), Frances Costello (Sun 11.00), Peadar Flanagan (Sun 12.00), Jimmy McGrath (Sun 12.30).
Westcourt News
The February Mass for the blessings of Edmund Rice on our lives and for his canonisation will be celebrated in Westcourt on Monday, 1st February at 7.30pm.
St. Brigid of Kildare
Brigid of Kildare is the secondary patron of Ireland. Brigid was one of the first people to spread the light of the faith in Ireland. She was a woman who gave witness to her faith by her welcome, generosity and care for all with whom she came in contact. Brigid is celebrated on Monday of this week.
Presentation of the Lord
The feast of the Presentation of the Lord is celebrated on this Tuesday. This feast, also known as Candlemas Day, observes the ritual purification of Mary after the birth of Jesus as well as the presentation of Jesus in the Temple in Jerusalem. On this day candles are traditionally blessed for use in the church and family homes. Please feel free to bring family candles to the sacristy before our Masses on Tuesday.
Senior Citizens’ Parish Party
The annual party for the senior citizens in our parish will be held at the Parish Centre on Monday, 8th February. With music by Marble City Sound a great evening is promised in our new Parish Centre.
Tickets will be available at the Parish Office and sacristies in all our churches. Tickets cost €10 and booking is essential.
St. Blaise and Blessing of Throats
The blessing of St. Blaise will be celebrated at all Masses on Wednesday morning.
Hope for Haiti
Gala Concert hosted by the Kilkenny Gospel Choir. Monday 1st February, Venue: St. Mary’s Cathedral Kilkenny. Time: 8pm. Your support would be greatly appreciated.
Enrolments in Parish Schools
The St. John of God Girls’ School and the St. Patrick’s De La Salle Boys’ School are currently dealing with enrolment applications for September 2010. Please contact the schools for further details.
St. John of God School: 056 772 1290
St. Patrick’s De La Salle School: 056 776 1081
Young At Heart Club
The Club will reopen on Wednesday, 3rd February at the Parish Centre. 2.30pm - 4.30pm. All are welcome.
Kilkenny Ladies Friendship Club
The Ladies’ Friendship club will reopen on Wednesday, 3rd February in Social Services Centre, Waterford Road at 8pm. New and existing members most welcome.
Singers Wanted
Members of the Youth choir are holding guitar lessons in the Parish Centre every Monday Night. We have a group of 10 children who are learning to play the guitar but we are in need of some singers to help them. If you have an hour to spare please come along to the parish centre at 7pm on Monday night.
Questions People Ask
Q. I’m struggling with my faith. I’m full of worries and anxieties. I try to pray but I don’t think I really trust God. I feel guilty and I can’t let go of past sins even after confession. I go to Church but my mind is elsewhere. I’m all a mess. What can I do?
A. Look how often you’ve used the first person singular. You are locked up in yourself but the chains that bind you have no lock except your own tight grip. When you open yourself to God and other people the chains will drop off. You won’t find peace in self-analysis. Let your prayer be more adoration and less petition. And never do anything you know to be against God’s will. In his will is your peace.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
31st January – 7th February
To Parents, Chairperson and Members of Boards of Management, Principals and Teachers
Priests of the Diocese and all involved in Catholic Schools in Ossory
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
In these difficult days for the Church community in Ireland it is good that we can take time to reflect on the very positive contribution that all who are involved in Catholic Education continue to make to the mission of the local Church and to society in general. The coming week heralds the commencement of Catholic Schools Week an initiative which focuses on the identity of the Catholic School as a centre of education and formation of the young person in every aspect of their lives. This event is also an important time for Catholics in Ireland to express their solidarity with all of those involved in schools. The theme of Catholic Schools Week this year is ‘The Catholic School - A light for every generation’. This light is especially visible when it is expressed through an ethos that promotes; a profound respect for the dignity & giftedness of the human person, prayer, appropriate catechesis, and a fruitful partnership with the home and local parish. It reminds us that we are constantly challenged to let the light of Christ shine for the present generation and this will remain part of our task for future generations also.
The Second Vatican Council’s declaration on Education states ‘Beautiful indeed and of great importance is the vocation of all those who aid parents in fulfilling their duties and who, as representatives of the human community, undertake the task of education in schools’. We are truly blessed in the diocese of Ossory that so many people give of themselves generously in the service of Catholic Education. I know I speak for all the people of the diocese when I express sincere thanks to all of you; to parents who continually entrust the formation of their children academically, spiritually, and as good human beings to our Catholic Schools; to principals and teachers who day after day are involved in the formation of children and young people; to all who serve on boards of management and parent’s councils; those who act as special needs assistants, people who work as secretaries and all who are involved in the cleaning and maintenance of our schools. During this year of the Priest a special word of thanks for the commitment of our priests who through their involvement in boards of management, visitation of the classroom, and through encouraging teachers and parents in the ways of faith fulfil their mission given at ordination to be educators of the faith.
Finally I pray that the celebration of Catholic Schools Week and all our endeavours to promote a Catholic ethos will help us to appreciate the great treasure our Catholic faith is and the light it has been for past generations and that which it will be for future followers of Jesus Christ.
With every good wish.
Bishop Seamus Freeman SAC
Catholic Schools Week
Catholic Schools Week gives us the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the tremendous contribution that our Catholic primary and post-primary schools make, not just to Irish society, but to the mission of the Church.
In our parish we give thanks for parents and teachers, members of the boards of management and parent’s associations, special needs assistants, people who work as secretaries, all who are involved in cleaning and maintenance, priests and the many others who give their time and energy in ensuring that our children receive the best education possible and are given the ability to realise their full potential as human beings and as children of God.
This year the theme for the week is ‘Catholic Schools - A Light for Every Generation’. Catholic schools are committed to the education and formation of the young person in every aspect of their lives. Thus Catholic schools are a light for parents, pupils, family members, staff and society in every generation.
St. God of God Girls’ School
The St. John of God Girls’ School will celebrate Catholic Schools Week with a Mass at St. Patrick’s Church at 1.15pm on Friday next. Parents and grandparents of the children are especially invited to attend as are all members of our parish community.
We Celebrate Consecrated Life
World Day of Consecrated Life is the day we celebrate the gift of Religious Life to the Church. Initiated by the Vatican in 1997, this day is an opportunity to celebrate the life and work of religious women and men and to pray for vocations to consecrated life. In St. Patrick’s Parish we have several communities of the St. John of God Sisters, members of the Sisters of Charity and Mill Hill Fathers, a missionary congregation.
Bishop Freeman will be principal celebrant at the Mass of Consecrated Life in St. Mary's Cathedral on Tuesday, 2nd February at 7.30pm. All are welcome to join in this celebration of thanksgiving for consecrated life.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Maureen Teehan, Ballyfoyle. Sarah Kennedy, Cahir. Catherine Mahon, Paulstown. Sr. Canice Broderick, Mercy Convent, Callan: requiem Mass at 12.00pm on Sunday.
Anniversaries: Pauline English (Sat 6.15), Jim Loughlin (Sat 7.00), Noeleen Flood (Sun 10.00), John & Ann Waldron (Sun 10.30), Michael Moore (Sun 11.00), Jack Comerford (Sun 12.00), Michael Dollard (Sun 12.30, Months Mind), Catherine & Joseph Brennan (Tues 10.30), Patrick O’Keeffe (Wed 9.30), Lil, Billy & Eamon Costelloe (Wed 10.30), Con Noonan, John & Annie Free, William, Ellen & Liam Bergin, Derek De Loughrey, William Culleton, Maura Gaffney, Patrick Walsh, Margaret Fanning, Ned Larkin, May Morris Allen, Paddy Morris, Peter Browne, Jimmy Browne, Moya Bligh.
Intentions for next weekend: Catherine Dunphy (Sat 6.15 Months Mind), St. Theophane Duggan (Sat 7.00), Dr. Richard Purcell (Sun 9.30), Pat Kearney (Sun 10.30), Frances Costello (Sun 11.00), Peadar Flanagan (Sun 12.00), Jimmy McGrath (Sun 12.30).
Westcourt News
The February Mass for the blessings of Edmund Rice on our lives and for his canonisation will be celebrated in Westcourt on Monday, 1st February at 7.30pm.
St. Brigid of Kildare
Brigid of Kildare is the secondary patron of Ireland. Brigid was one of the first people to spread the light of the faith in Ireland. She was a woman who gave witness to her faith by her welcome, generosity and care for all with whom she came in contact. Brigid is celebrated on Monday of this week.
Presentation of the Lord
The feast of the Presentation of the Lord is celebrated on this Tuesday. This feast, also known as Candlemas Day, observes the ritual purification of Mary after the birth of Jesus as well as the presentation of Jesus in the Temple in Jerusalem. On this day candles are traditionally blessed for use in the church and family homes. Please feel free to bring family candles to the sacristy before our Masses on Tuesday.
Senior Citizens’ Parish Party
The annual party for the senior citizens in our parish will be held at the Parish Centre on Monday, 8th February. With music by Marble City Sound a great evening is promised in our new Parish Centre.
Tickets will be available at the Parish Office and sacristies in all our churches. Tickets cost €10 and booking is essential.
St. Blaise and Blessing of Throats
The blessing of St. Blaise will be celebrated at all Masses on Wednesday morning.
Hope for Haiti
Gala Concert hosted by the Kilkenny Gospel Choir. Monday 1st February, Venue: St. Mary’s Cathedral Kilkenny. Time: 8pm. Your support would be greatly appreciated.
Enrolments in Parish Schools
The St. John of God Girls’ School and the St. Patrick’s De La Salle Boys’ School are currently dealing with enrolment applications for September 2010. Please contact the schools for further details.
St. John of God School: 056 772 1290
St. Patrick’s De La Salle School: 056 776 1081
Young At Heart Club
The Club will reopen on Wednesday, 3rd February at the Parish Centre. 2.30pm - 4.30pm. All are welcome.
Kilkenny Ladies Friendship Club
The Ladies’ Friendship club will reopen on Wednesday, 3rd February in Social Services Centre, Waterford Road at 8pm. New and existing members most welcome.
Singers Wanted
Members of the Youth choir are holding guitar lessons in the Parish Centre every Monday Night. We have a group of 10 children who are learning to play the guitar but we are in need of some singers to help them. If you have an hour to spare please come along to the parish centre at 7pm on Monday night.
Questions People Ask
Q. I’m struggling with my faith. I’m full of worries and anxieties. I try to pray but I don’t think I really trust God. I feel guilty and I can’t let go of past sins even after confession. I go to Church but my mind is elsewhere. I’m all a mess. What can I do?
A. Look how often you’ve used the first person singular. You are locked up in yourself but the chains that bind you have no lock except your own tight grip. When you open yourself to God and other people the chains will drop off. You won’t find peace in self-analysis. Let your prayer be more adoration and less petition. And never do anything you know to be against God’s will. In his will is your peace.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, January 24th 2010
Your Bottom Dollar
Gambling is one of our growing problems. You can bet your bottom dollar on that! It’s estimated that in 2008 punters risked losing about €3.6 billion in the nation’s 1,093 betting shops. That’s €300 million more than the previous year. No recession there! This, alarmingly, doesn’t include on-course betting, gambling on the National Lottery or online. Many people relish risk, crave for chance and feed on fickle fate instead of solid faith. For some people there can be nothing odd with the odds when it comes to risk-taking for money. What, in sober moments, most of us would count as throwing money away gung-ho gamblers see as a prelude to a victory parade.
Today’s Gospel reading doesn’t deal with chance, though there may be some risk later down the road. It presents us with odds-on certainty: the fulfilment of the prophecy of Isaiah in the person of Jesus. He was prophesied as the one who brings news of freedom to captives and those oppressed because the Sprit of God rest on him. In other words, because God is with Jesus he can enable us to live free of addictions, compulsions and false values. It’s a totally upbeat prophecy, and indeed Jesus is totally upbeat about it. Question is: are we?
Do we accept Jesus as he who brings us freedom? Or, do we see him as cramping our style? But there is nothing that is moral and legal that we can’t do as a Christian that we could do were we not. You can bet your bottom dollar on that too.
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD
Senior Citizens’ Parish Party
The annual party for the senior citizens in our parish will be held at the Parish Centre on Monday, 8th February. With music by Marble City Sound a great evening is promised in our new Parish Centre.
Tickets will be available at the Parish Office and sacristies in all our churches from next week. Tickets cost €10 and booking is essential to enable efficient catering.
You are witness to these things
This phrase, from St. Luke’s 24:48, is the theme of the 2010 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity which draws to a close on Monday of this week. To mark the annual week of prayer and to remind us that we are commissioned by Christ to promote Christian unity there will be an exchange of greetings at all City churches this weekend.
This Saturday evening our parish welcomes Canon Ivor Power of the Church of Ireland who will visit St. Fiacre’s Church for the 6.15pm Mass and the Rev. Dr. Joe Burke of the Kilkenny Methodist Church who will be present at the 7.00pm Mass at St. Patrick’s Church. Fr. Dan will take our greetings to the congregation at the Kilkenny Presbyterian Church service on Sunday morning. Among the other visits this year Bishop Séamus will attend the Sunday Service at St. Canice’s Cathedral while Church of Ireland Bishop Michael Burrows will speak at the 7.30pm Mass on Saturday at St. Canice’s Catholic Church.
Please keep this intention in your prayers.
Parish Centre Opening
We would like to thank all who helped in any way with the official opening of the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Homes for the Elderly and Presbytery on last Sunday. We are glad to say the event was a great success.
Parish Draw
The next draw in the present series will take place on Tuesday, 26th January at 8.30pm in the Parish Centre. The draw is always held in public and all are invited to come along.
St. Vincent de Paul
The members of the local conference wish to thank all who contributed to their Christmas appeal. In difficult financial times members of our congregations were not found wanting. Thanks, too, to those who made substantial anonymous donations to the funds. All money will be used wisely to help those most in need in the locality.
Questions People Ask
Q. This is the year of the Gospel of Luke. What is special about Luke?
A. The opening words that each evangelist quotes from Jesus are a good indication of that writer’s special insight and purpose. In Luke the first words we hear from the adult Jesus are about the Spirit anointing him for a mission to the poor and those who are generally regarded as less favoured. He is the evangelist of the Holy Spirit. Luke emphasises compassion and mercy. Among those blessed by God are people regarded as outsiders… sinners, lepers, Samaritans, women, shepherds, tax collectors.
Watch the verbs in Luke as he tells of the gracious actions of God and the prayerful reactions of people. (Fr. Silvester O’Flynn)
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Fr. Loughlin Campion, Crosspatrick & Dalgan Park, Navan. Bridget Corr, Castlewarren. Maura Tobin, Johnstown.
Anniversaries: John Bradley (Sat 6.15), Kathleen Hickey (Sat 7.00), Christy McLoughlin (Sun 10.00), Norah Foley (Sun 10.30), Kathleen O’Neill (Sun 11.00), John Hennessy (Sun 12.00), John Collins (Sun 12.30), Kathleen Kelly (Tues 10.30), Liam & William O’Connor (Thurs 9.30), John, Ellen & Pat Butler (Fri 10.30), Frank Nolan, Albert & Bridget Downes, Martin Coyne, Fr. John Nyhan, Annie Delaney, Michael McDonald, Brendan McKenna, Billy Burke, Frank Moran, Michael Lanigan, Orla Roche, John & Catherine Curry, Christina Murphy.
Intentions for next weekend: Pauline English (Sat 6.15), Jim Loughlin (Sat 7.00), Noeleen Flood (Sun 10.00), Ann & John Waldron (Sun 10.30), Michael Moore (Sun 11.00), Jack Comerford (Sun 12.00), Michael Dollard (Month’s Mind Sun 12.30).
Bereavement Support Group
The St. Patrick’s Parish Bereavement Support Group offers one to one support to bereaved parishioners. Phone 086 162 9089 to make an appointment to meet members of the group, in the Parish Centre, Loughboy. This is a free and confidential service.
Catholic Schools Week 2010
Catholic Schools Week 2010 begins on Sunday, 31st January and concludes on Saturday, 6th February. The Pastoral Letter of the Irish Bishops’ Conference Vision 08 – A Vision for Catholic Education is a useful resource for those who wish to focus on the theme of the week. Copies were circulated in our parish last year and the pastoral may be downloaded from www.catholicbishops.ie - the website of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference.
Catholic Schools Week gives us the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the tremendous contribution that our Catholic primary and post-primary schools make not just to Irish society, but to the mission of the Church. Last year marked a very successful beginning of an all-Ireland celebration of Catholic Schools Week and we hope this year to build on that foundation and continue to create a space where we can proudly articulate and celebrate our ethos and identity.
This year the theme for the week is ‘Catholic Schools – A Light for Every Generation’. Catholic schools are committed to the education and formation of the young person in every aspect of their lives. Thus Catholic schools are light for parents, pupils, staff and society in every generation. In selecting this theme we are clearly connecting the vision of Catholic education with the mission of the Gospel, to bring the light of Christ to the world and to allow that light to shine through and in all that we do in our work in Catholic schools. This theme reminds us that we are constantly challenged to let that light shine for the present generation and this will remain part of our task for future generations. It also allows us to remember with great gratitude all those who through their work in establishing schools and places of education brought the light of Christ to many generations of Irish people in the past.
Kilkenny Flower Club
A reminder for Kilkenny Flower Club Members: the club’s annual dinner is in The Kilkenny Rivercourt Hotel next Thursday, 28th January at 6.30pm.
www.patricksparish.net
For photos of the official opening of the Parish Centre and other news about the parish.
Angels & Demons - The True Story
St. John’s Parish Prayer Group invites you to a Lecture Series for Lent at St. John’s Day Centre (8pm - 9.30pm). Each meeting will consist of Worship and Praise followed by a lecture by Fr. Joe Delaney.
February 3rd: Paradise Lost. February 10th: Spiritual Warfare. February 17th: The Ministry of Angels (please note starting at 8.30pm). March 3rd: Demonic Entry Points: The Occult and Alternative Therapies. March 10th: The Effects of Generational Sin. March 24th: Testimonies and Prayer.
Earthquake in Haiti
Trócaire, the official overseas development agency of the Catholic Church in Ireland, helps the people of Haiti. To donate, please call 1850 408 408 or log on to www.trocaire.org
Loughboy Library
No Time to read? Loughboy Library has introduced a large collection of compact audio books called Play-a-way. They are the size of your mobile phone and can be used in the car, at home or out walking. They are independent pieces of equipment and all you need are batteries. New titles include A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini and Marley and Me by John Grogan. Come in and have a look…
All-Ireland Talent Show
Ross Hennessy is from our parish and is a member of Na Fianna, a well-known local band which will compete live on this Sunday’s All-Ireland Talent Show at 6.30pm. Let’s give Ross and the band our fullest support by voting for them this weekend.
Hard luck to Aidan Byrne from the Parish Youth Choir and his mates in Pyrotechnix who were very unfortunate not to make it through to the semi-finals last week.
Diabetes - Kickstart The New Year
This meeting will now take place at 8.00pm on Wednesday, January 27th at The Newpark Hotel. Guest Speakers include Dr. Mary Ryan, Consultant Physician Endocrinologist, Aut Even Hospital and Ms. Irene Stokes, Podiatrist, The Foot Clinic, Kilkenny. All Welcome. Admission is free.
The Migraine Association of Ireland
The Migraine Association of Ireland [MAI] will hold a free information evening in the Kilford Arms Hotel, Johns Street, Kilkenny at 7.30pm on Monday, 25th January. The event is open to migraine sufferers and to all those who live, work and deal with migraine suffers on a regular basis – such as family members, employers, health professionals, etc. A presentation will be given by a specialist nurse – before the floor is opened for questions. For more information see: www.migraine.ie and to book call 1850 200 378 or email info@migraine.ie
Gambling is one of our growing problems. You can bet your bottom dollar on that! It’s estimated that in 2008 punters risked losing about €3.6 billion in the nation’s 1,093 betting shops. That’s €300 million more than the previous year. No recession there! This, alarmingly, doesn’t include on-course betting, gambling on the National Lottery or online. Many people relish risk, crave for chance and feed on fickle fate instead of solid faith. For some people there can be nothing odd with the odds when it comes to risk-taking for money. What, in sober moments, most of us would count as throwing money away gung-ho gamblers see as a prelude to a victory parade.
Today’s Gospel reading doesn’t deal with chance, though there may be some risk later down the road. It presents us with odds-on certainty: the fulfilment of the prophecy of Isaiah in the person of Jesus. He was prophesied as the one who brings news of freedom to captives and those oppressed because the Sprit of God rest on him. In other words, because God is with Jesus he can enable us to live free of addictions, compulsions and false values. It’s a totally upbeat prophecy, and indeed Jesus is totally upbeat about it. Question is: are we?
Do we accept Jesus as he who brings us freedom? Or, do we see him as cramping our style? But there is nothing that is moral and legal that we can’t do as a Christian that we could do were we not. You can bet your bottom dollar on that too.
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD
Senior Citizens’ Parish Party
The annual party for the senior citizens in our parish will be held at the Parish Centre on Monday, 8th February. With music by Marble City Sound a great evening is promised in our new Parish Centre.
Tickets will be available at the Parish Office and sacristies in all our churches from next week. Tickets cost €10 and booking is essential to enable efficient catering.
You are witness to these things
This phrase, from St. Luke’s 24:48, is the theme of the 2010 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity which draws to a close on Monday of this week. To mark the annual week of prayer and to remind us that we are commissioned by Christ to promote Christian unity there will be an exchange of greetings at all City churches this weekend.
This Saturday evening our parish welcomes Canon Ivor Power of the Church of Ireland who will visit St. Fiacre’s Church for the 6.15pm Mass and the Rev. Dr. Joe Burke of the Kilkenny Methodist Church who will be present at the 7.00pm Mass at St. Patrick’s Church. Fr. Dan will take our greetings to the congregation at the Kilkenny Presbyterian Church service on Sunday morning. Among the other visits this year Bishop Séamus will attend the Sunday Service at St. Canice’s Cathedral while Church of Ireland Bishop Michael Burrows will speak at the 7.30pm Mass on Saturday at St. Canice’s Catholic Church.
Please keep this intention in your prayers.
Parish Centre Opening
We would like to thank all who helped in any way with the official opening of the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Homes for the Elderly and Presbytery on last Sunday. We are glad to say the event was a great success.
Parish Draw
The next draw in the present series will take place on Tuesday, 26th January at 8.30pm in the Parish Centre. The draw is always held in public and all are invited to come along.
St. Vincent de Paul
The members of the local conference wish to thank all who contributed to their Christmas appeal. In difficult financial times members of our congregations were not found wanting. Thanks, too, to those who made substantial anonymous donations to the funds. All money will be used wisely to help those most in need in the locality.
Questions People Ask
Q. This is the year of the Gospel of Luke. What is special about Luke?
A. The opening words that each evangelist quotes from Jesus are a good indication of that writer’s special insight and purpose. In Luke the first words we hear from the adult Jesus are about the Spirit anointing him for a mission to the poor and those who are generally regarded as less favoured. He is the evangelist of the Holy Spirit. Luke emphasises compassion and mercy. Among those blessed by God are people regarded as outsiders… sinners, lepers, Samaritans, women, shepherds, tax collectors.
Watch the verbs in Luke as he tells of the gracious actions of God and the prayerful reactions of people. (Fr. Silvester O’Flynn)
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Fr. Loughlin Campion, Crosspatrick & Dalgan Park, Navan. Bridget Corr, Castlewarren. Maura Tobin, Johnstown.
Anniversaries: John Bradley (Sat 6.15), Kathleen Hickey (Sat 7.00), Christy McLoughlin (Sun 10.00), Norah Foley (Sun 10.30), Kathleen O’Neill (Sun 11.00), John Hennessy (Sun 12.00), John Collins (Sun 12.30), Kathleen Kelly (Tues 10.30), Liam & William O’Connor (Thurs 9.30), John, Ellen & Pat Butler (Fri 10.30), Frank Nolan, Albert & Bridget Downes, Martin Coyne, Fr. John Nyhan, Annie Delaney, Michael McDonald, Brendan McKenna, Billy Burke, Frank Moran, Michael Lanigan, Orla Roche, John & Catherine Curry, Christina Murphy.
Intentions for next weekend: Pauline English (Sat 6.15), Jim Loughlin (Sat 7.00), Noeleen Flood (Sun 10.00), Ann & John Waldron (Sun 10.30), Michael Moore (Sun 11.00), Jack Comerford (Sun 12.00), Michael Dollard (Month’s Mind Sun 12.30).
Bereavement Support Group
The St. Patrick’s Parish Bereavement Support Group offers one to one support to bereaved parishioners. Phone 086 162 9089 to make an appointment to meet members of the group, in the Parish Centre, Loughboy. This is a free and confidential service.
Catholic Schools Week 2010
Catholic Schools Week 2010 begins on Sunday, 31st January and concludes on Saturday, 6th February. The Pastoral Letter of the Irish Bishops’ Conference Vision 08 – A Vision for Catholic Education is a useful resource for those who wish to focus on the theme of the week. Copies were circulated in our parish last year and the pastoral may be downloaded from www.catholicbishops.ie - the website of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference.
Catholic Schools Week gives us the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the tremendous contribution that our Catholic primary and post-primary schools make not just to Irish society, but to the mission of the Church. Last year marked a very successful beginning of an all-Ireland celebration of Catholic Schools Week and we hope this year to build on that foundation and continue to create a space where we can proudly articulate and celebrate our ethos and identity.
This year the theme for the week is ‘Catholic Schools – A Light for Every Generation’. Catholic schools are committed to the education and formation of the young person in every aspect of their lives. Thus Catholic schools are light for parents, pupils, staff and society in every generation. In selecting this theme we are clearly connecting the vision of Catholic education with the mission of the Gospel, to bring the light of Christ to the world and to allow that light to shine through and in all that we do in our work in Catholic schools. This theme reminds us that we are constantly challenged to let that light shine for the present generation and this will remain part of our task for future generations. It also allows us to remember with great gratitude all those who through their work in establishing schools and places of education brought the light of Christ to many generations of Irish people in the past.
Kilkenny Flower Club
A reminder for Kilkenny Flower Club Members: the club’s annual dinner is in The Kilkenny Rivercourt Hotel next Thursday, 28th January at 6.30pm.
www.patricksparish.net
For photos of the official opening of the Parish Centre and other news about the parish.
Angels & Demons - The True Story
St. John’s Parish Prayer Group invites you to a Lecture Series for Lent at St. John’s Day Centre (8pm - 9.30pm). Each meeting will consist of Worship and Praise followed by a lecture by Fr. Joe Delaney.
February 3rd: Paradise Lost. February 10th: Spiritual Warfare. February 17th: The Ministry of Angels (please note starting at 8.30pm). March 3rd: Demonic Entry Points: The Occult and Alternative Therapies. March 10th: The Effects of Generational Sin. March 24th: Testimonies and Prayer.
Earthquake in Haiti
Trócaire, the official overseas development agency of the Catholic Church in Ireland, helps the people of Haiti. To donate, please call 1850 408 408 or log on to www.trocaire.org
Loughboy Library
No Time to read? Loughboy Library has introduced a large collection of compact audio books called Play-a-way. They are the size of your mobile phone and can be used in the car, at home or out walking. They are independent pieces of equipment and all you need are batteries. New titles include A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini and Marley and Me by John Grogan. Come in and have a look…
All-Ireland Talent Show
Ross Hennessy is from our parish and is a member of Na Fianna, a well-known local band which will compete live on this Sunday’s All-Ireland Talent Show at 6.30pm. Let’s give Ross and the band our fullest support by voting for them this weekend.
Hard luck to Aidan Byrne from the Parish Youth Choir and his mates in Pyrotechnix who were very unfortunate not to make it through to the semi-finals last week.
Diabetes - Kickstart The New Year
This meeting will now take place at 8.00pm on Wednesday, January 27th at The Newpark Hotel. Guest Speakers include Dr. Mary Ryan, Consultant Physician Endocrinologist, Aut Even Hospital and Ms. Irene Stokes, Podiatrist, The Foot Clinic, Kilkenny. All Welcome. Admission is free.
The Migraine Association of Ireland
The Migraine Association of Ireland [MAI] will hold a free information evening in the Kilford Arms Hotel, Johns Street, Kilkenny at 7.30pm on Monday, 25th January. The event is open to migraine sufferers and to all those who live, work and deal with migraine suffers on a regular basis – such as family members, employers, health professionals, etc. A presentation will be given by a specialist nurse – before the floor is opened for questions. For more information see: www.migraine.ie and to book call 1850 200 378 or email info@migraine.ie
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, 17th January 2009
St. Patrick’s Parish Centre
This weekend St. Patrick’s Parish is proud to host the official opening and blessing of the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Homes for the Elderly and Presbytery. The buildings will be blessed by Bishop Séamus Freeman and officially opened by Mr. Brian Cody - the ceremonies begin at 2.30pm on Sunday. The St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will provide foot-warming marching music and entertainment during the afternoon. Some light refreshments will be served.
We plan this to be a great parish celebration and all associated with the parish and the planning and building of the complex are invited to attend. This is a worthy development by the people of St. Patrick’s Parish, one of which we can be rightly proud, an improvement of facilities which will serve the community well for many decades to come. This present generation has built on the strong foundations put in place by our ancestors and, please God, we will leave a rich legacy for those who will come behind us. Please come along on Sunday afternoon and join with your neighbours and friends as we celebrate our parish’s achievement.
Earthquake in Haiti
On Tuesday night an earthquake struck Haiti killing over 50,000 people. In response, Pope Benedict XVI called on “the generosity of all people” to support those worst affected. He added that “the Catholic Church will not fail to move immediately, through her charitable institutions, to meet the most immediate needs of the population”.
Trócaire is the official overseas development agency of the Catholic Church in Ireland and they desperately need your assistance to help the people of Haiti.
To donate, please call 1850 408 408 or log on to www.trocaire.org
Divine Mercy Prayer Group
The local Divine Mercy Prayer Group meets at the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre each Thursday morning following the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church. New members and visitors are always welcome.
Bridge in the Afternoon
Fancy playing a game of bridge in the afternoon? Come along to St Patrick’s Parish Centre on Tuesday, 19th January and every Tuesday thereafter. Time: 3.00pm - 5.00pm. No partner required. All are welcome.
Questions People Ask
Q. At the wedding in Cana there were 6 jars, each holding 20 or 30 gallons, about the equivalent of 800 bottles today. Are we to take these figures literally?
A. The Gospel of John shows Jesus bringing several Jewish institutions such as the Temple and the Sabbath to fulfilment. The miracle of Cana involved water, not any water, but water set aside for ritual purification before a meal. This water represents the Jewish religion with its many ritual washings as preparing for the wedding of heaven and earth which occurred in Jesus, true God and true man. Six jars are one short of the perfect number, seven. The huge amount of new wine expresses the lavish generosity of God inviting all people to union with Christ.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Church Cleaners
Do you have an hour or two to spare each week? We are in urgent need of one or two more cleaners for St. Patrick’s Church. The members of the team keep the church clean and prepared for our daily liturgies. Much of the work goes on behind the scenes but it is truly appreciated. Please contact Jim in the sacristy at St. Patrick’s Church if you can spare an hour or two each week. Many hands make light work…
The Cold Weather
Thanks to the many parishioners who helped out in different ways during the recent cold spell. While conditions were difficult the community’s response was warm and generous. Many members of our Church community went well beyond the call of duty to help a neighbour in need - but then that’s what we should be about as Christians.
Seeing Red
I wonder if the UK-chart topping, 1986 hit Lady in Red by Chris de Burgh would have soared so high had she been in green. Wearing red not only gets you noticed, it can get you ahead even in the Olympic Games, according to one lecturer at Durham University, England. Wearing red marks you as aggressive and dominant.
Today’s First Reading (1 Cor 12:4-11) lists distinguishing marks for members of the Christian community. The colour red doesn’t get a look in. Neither do designer labels, gym workouts, health food diets or high-tech gizmos (even had they existed). But then they wouldn’t; all the qualities listed are for service not dominance or ego gratification. Also, everything on the list is internal to the individual not external. I don’t need to enhance my appearance for service but I do need to enhance myself. And the gifts listed in this reading do just that: wise utterance, knowledgeable speech, faith witness, power to heal, working miracles, prophesying and the ability to discern spirits, talking in tongues and interpreting them.
To put these gifts in more contemporary wrapping we might list them as: having cop on, being informed, practising what I preach, comforting those in difficulty, helping without counting the cost, being my brother’s keeper, being open to God’s Spirit and open to those open to God’s Spirit. It’s surprising at times that if you should go public, so to speak, and say that these are the qualities that distinguish true Christians some of that public, even those not Christian, will probably see red!
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD
Pray for the Deceased
Anniversaries: Paul Prodromou (Sat 6.15), Tom Langton (Sat 7.00), Michael Drennan (Sun 10.30), Maureen O’Shea (Sun 11.00), Beattie Connell (Sun 12.00), Oliver Mannion (Sun 12.30), Patrick Morris (Mon 9.30), Nora Carroll (Tues 9.30), Sally Mullally (Tues 10.30), Evelyn (Bobbi) Leahy (Wed 9.30), Richard Brennan (Wed 10.30), Maureen & Paddy Dwyer (Thurs 10.30), John Phelan (Fri 10.30), Johnny Brennan, Michael & Mary Ellen Delaney, Denis Guilfoyle, Clare O’Connor, Christopher & Mary Ryan, Edward McCormack.
Intentions for next weekend: John Bradley (Sat 6.15), Kathleen Hickey (Sat 7.00), Christy McLoughlin (Sun 10.00), Norah Foley (Sun 10.30), Kathleen O’Neill (Sun 11.00), John Hennessy (Sun 12.00), John Collins (Sun 12.30).
May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.
The Parish Office and Shop
The St. Patrick’s Parish Office and Shop are open each weekday between 10.00am and 5.00pm. Call in or telephone 056 776 4400 for all parish business. Our parish email is: stpatricksparish@ossory.ie The Office is closed for lunch between 1.00 and 2.00pm.
Family Communications
An 8 week parenting course for parents of 9 - 16 year olds.
Aim: To support parents in building good relationships with their children.
How can this course help parents? Helps patents explore how they communicate with their children and each other. Supports parents in the good job they are already doing. Provides parents with an opportunity to talk with other parents.
Topics covered include: Communication, peer pressure, self esteem, drugs and alcohol, problem solving, conflict resolution.
For further information or to book a place contact Teresa Hennessy or Bernie O’Brien 056 776 1400. Closing date 20th January.
Angels & Demons - The True Story
St. John’s Parish Prayer Group invites you to a Lecture Series for Lent at St. John’s Day Centre (8pm - 9.30pm). Each meeting will consist of Worship and Praise followed by a lecture. The lectures will be given by Fr. Joe Delaney.
February 3rd: Paradise Lost. February 10th: Spiritual Warfare. February 17th: The Ministry of Angels (please note starting at 8.30pm). March 3rd: Demonic Entry Points: The Occult and Alternative Therapies. March 10th: The Effects of Generational Sin. March 24th: Testimonies and Prayer.
Church Gate Collection
The Irish Wheelchair Association church gate collection, cancelled because of bad weather, will now be held on the 23rd and 24th January.
Have you time to spare?
S.O.S. is a voluntary organisation for adults with a mild-moderate intellectual disability. S.O.S. provides day services, respite and residential care. We are currently looking for volunteers to support us in providing greater social and recreational activities for people in S.O.S. So if you are interested and have a few hours a week to spare please contact Kathleen Sherry or Geraldine Wilson at 056 776 4000 for further information.
Free Preschool 3 - 4 years
23 Cedarwood Crescent, Loughboy. Only 2 minutes walk from Supervalu. Must register within the next 2 weeks. Four places left. Call Square One: Marie 086 803 0850 or Joan 056 776 1142.
Loughboy Library
Margot Lawlor, Ardnore is exhibiting a series of acrylic paintings on canvas at Loughboy Library until Friday 22nd January. They consist of dramatised fairytale images and also cats and dogs. All are for sale at reasonable prices.
All-Ireland Talent Show
Aidan Byrne, guitarist with the Parish Youth Choir and Pyrotechnix will be on air on the All Ireland Talent Show on RTE 1 on this Sunday evening, 17th January at 6.30pm. Please give them your support and a vote.
And we have even more talent in the parish! Ross Hennessy is a member of Na Fianna, a well-known local band which will compete live on the All-Ireland Talent Show on next Sunday, 24th January. Let’s give Ross and the band our fullest support by voting for them next weekend.
A Smile Before you Go
Two senior ladies met for the first time since graduating from secondary school. One asked the other, “You were always so organized in school, meticulously planning every detail. How did you plan your married life?”
“Well,” said her friend, “My first marriage was to a millionaire; my second marriage was to an actor; my third marriage was to a preacher; and now I'm married to an undertaker.”
Asked the friend, “What do those marriages have to do with a well planned life?” “The first marriage was for the money, the second for the show, the third to get ready and the fourth to go!”
This weekend St. Patrick’s Parish is proud to host the official opening and blessing of the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Homes for the Elderly and Presbytery. The buildings will be blessed by Bishop Séamus Freeman and officially opened by Mr. Brian Cody - the ceremonies begin at 2.30pm on Sunday. The St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will provide foot-warming marching music and entertainment during the afternoon. Some light refreshments will be served.
We plan this to be a great parish celebration and all associated with the parish and the planning and building of the complex are invited to attend. This is a worthy development by the people of St. Patrick’s Parish, one of which we can be rightly proud, an improvement of facilities which will serve the community well for many decades to come. This present generation has built on the strong foundations put in place by our ancestors and, please God, we will leave a rich legacy for those who will come behind us. Please come along on Sunday afternoon and join with your neighbours and friends as we celebrate our parish’s achievement.
Earthquake in Haiti
On Tuesday night an earthquake struck Haiti killing over 50,000 people. In response, Pope Benedict XVI called on “the generosity of all people” to support those worst affected. He added that “the Catholic Church will not fail to move immediately, through her charitable institutions, to meet the most immediate needs of the population”.
Trócaire is the official overseas development agency of the Catholic Church in Ireland and they desperately need your assistance to help the people of Haiti.
To donate, please call 1850 408 408 or log on to www.trocaire.org
Divine Mercy Prayer Group
The local Divine Mercy Prayer Group meets at the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre each Thursday morning following the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church. New members and visitors are always welcome.
Bridge in the Afternoon
Fancy playing a game of bridge in the afternoon? Come along to St Patrick’s Parish Centre on Tuesday, 19th January and every Tuesday thereafter. Time: 3.00pm - 5.00pm. No partner required. All are welcome.
Questions People Ask
Q. At the wedding in Cana there were 6 jars, each holding 20 or 30 gallons, about the equivalent of 800 bottles today. Are we to take these figures literally?
A. The Gospel of John shows Jesus bringing several Jewish institutions such as the Temple and the Sabbath to fulfilment. The miracle of Cana involved water, not any water, but water set aside for ritual purification before a meal. This water represents the Jewish religion with its many ritual washings as preparing for the wedding of heaven and earth which occurred in Jesus, true God and true man. Six jars are one short of the perfect number, seven. The huge amount of new wine expresses the lavish generosity of God inviting all people to union with Christ.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Church Cleaners
Do you have an hour or two to spare each week? We are in urgent need of one or two more cleaners for St. Patrick’s Church. The members of the team keep the church clean and prepared for our daily liturgies. Much of the work goes on behind the scenes but it is truly appreciated. Please contact Jim in the sacristy at St. Patrick’s Church if you can spare an hour or two each week. Many hands make light work…
The Cold Weather
Thanks to the many parishioners who helped out in different ways during the recent cold spell. While conditions were difficult the community’s response was warm and generous. Many members of our Church community went well beyond the call of duty to help a neighbour in need - but then that’s what we should be about as Christians.
Seeing Red
I wonder if the UK-chart topping, 1986 hit Lady in Red by Chris de Burgh would have soared so high had she been in green. Wearing red not only gets you noticed, it can get you ahead even in the Olympic Games, according to one lecturer at Durham University, England. Wearing red marks you as aggressive and dominant.
Today’s First Reading (1 Cor 12:4-11) lists distinguishing marks for members of the Christian community. The colour red doesn’t get a look in. Neither do designer labels, gym workouts, health food diets or high-tech gizmos (even had they existed). But then they wouldn’t; all the qualities listed are for service not dominance or ego gratification. Also, everything on the list is internal to the individual not external. I don’t need to enhance my appearance for service but I do need to enhance myself. And the gifts listed in this reading do just that: wise utterance, knowledgeable speech, faith witness, power to heal, working miracles, prophesying and the ability to discern spirits, talking in tongues and interpreting them.
To put these gifts in more contemporary wrapping we might list them as: having cop on, being informed, practising what I preach, comforting those in difficulty, helping without counting the cost, being my brother’s keeper, being open to God’s Spirit and open to those open to God’s Spirit. It’s surprising at times that if you should go public, so to speak, and say that these are the qualities that distinguish true Christians some of that public, even those not Christian, will probably see red!
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD
Pray for the Deceased
Anniversaries: Paul Prodromou (Sat 6.15), Tom Langton (Sat 7.00), Michael Drennan (Sun 10.30), Maureen O’Shea (Sun 11.00), Beattie Connell (Sun 12.00), Oliver Mannion (Sun 12.30), Patrick Morris (Mon 9.30), Nora Carroll (Tues 9.30), Sally Mullally (Tues 10.30), Evelyn (Bobbi) Leahy (Wed 9.30), Richard Brennan (Wed 10.30), Maureen & Paddy Dwyer (Thurs 10.30), John Phelan (Fri 10.30), Johnny Brennan, Michael & Mary Ellen Delaney, Denis Guilfoyle, Clare O’Connor, Christopher & Mary Ryan, Edward McCormack.
Intentions for next weekend: John Bradley (Sat 6.15), Kathleen Hickey (Sat 7.00), Christy McLoughlin (Sun 10.00), Norah Foley (Sun 10.30), Kathleen O’Neill (Sun 11.00), John Hennessy (Sun 12.00), John Collins (Sun 12.30).
May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.
The Parish Office and Shop
The St. Patrick’s Parish Office and Shop are open each weekday between 10.00am and 5.00pm. Call in or telephone 056 776 4400 for all parish business. Our parish email is: stpatricksparish@ossory.ie The Office is closed for lunch between 1.00 and 2.00pm.
Family Communications
An 8 week parenting course for parents of 9 - 16 year olds.
Aim: To support parents in building good relationships with their children.
How can this course help parents? Helps patents explore how they communicate with their children and each other. Supports parents in the good job they are already doing. Provides parents with an opportunity to talk with other parents.
Topics covered include: Communication, peer pressure, self esteem, drugs and alcohol, problem solving, conflict resolution.
For further information or to book a place contact Teresa Hennessy or Bernie O’Brien 056 776 1400. Closing date 20th January.
Angels & Demons - The True Story
St. John’s Parish Prayer Group invites you to a Lecture Series for Lent at St. John’s Day Centre (8pm - 9.30pm). Each meeting will consist of Worship and Praise followed by a lecture. The lectures will be given by Fr. Joe Delaney.
February 3rd: Paradise Lost. February 10th: Spiritual Warfare. February 17th: The Ministry of Angels (please note starting at 8.30pm). March 3rd: Demonic Entry Points: The Occult and Alternative Therapies. March 10th: The Effects of Generational Sin. March 24th: Testimonies and Prayer.
Church Gate Collection
The Irish Wheelchair Association church gate collection, cancelled because of bad weather, will now be held on the 23rd and 24th January.
Have you time to spare?
S.O.S. is a voluntary organisation for adults with a mild-moderate intellectual disability. S.O.S. provides day services, respite and residential care. We are currently looking for volunteers to support us in providing greater social and recreational activities for people in S.O.S. So if you are interested and have a few hours a week to spare please contact Kathleen Sherry or Geraldine Wilson at 056 776 4000 for further information.
Free Preschool 3 - 4 years
23 Cedarwood Crescent, Loughboy. Only 2 minutes walk from Supervalu. Must register within the next 2 weeks. Four places left. Call Square One: Marie 086 803 0850 or Joan 056 776 1142.
Loughboy Library
Margot Lawlor, Ardnore is exhibiting a series of acrylic paintings on canvas at Loughboy Library until Friday 22nd January. They consist of dramatised fairytale images and also cats and dogs. All are for sale at reasonable prices.
All-Ireland Talent Show
Aidan Byrne, guitarist with the Parish Youth Choir and Pyrotechnix will be on air on the All Ireland Talent Show on RTE 1 on this Sunday evening, 17th January at 6.30pm. Please give them your support and a vote.
And we have even more talent in the parish! Ross Hennessy is a member of Na Fianna, a well-known local band which will compete live on the All-Ireland Talent Show on next Sunday, 24th January. Let’s give Ross and the band our fullest support by voting for them next weekend.
A Smile Before you Go
Two senior ladies met for the first time since graduating from secondary school. One asked the other, “You were always so organized in school, meticulously planning every detail. How did you plan your married life?”
“Well,” said her friend, “My first marriage was to a millionaire; my second marriage was to an actor; my third marriage was to a preacher; and now I'm married to an undertaker.”
Asked the friend, “What do those marriages have to do with a well planned life?” “The first marriage was for the money, the second for the show, the third to get ready and the fourth to go!”
Saturday, January 9, 2010
The Baptism of the Lord 10th January 2009
St. Patrick’s Parish Centre Official Opening
We plan to have the Official Opening of the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre and adjacent Homes for the Elderly at 2.30pm on next Sunday, 17th January. The Centre will be blessed by Bishop Séamus Freeman and will be officially opened by another Freeman: Mr. Brian Cody, Freeman of Kilkenny City. The St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will provide foot-warming marching music and entertainment during the afternoon.
We plan this to be a great parish celebration and all associated with the parish and the development are invited to attend. This is our parish development and all are asked to come along and celebrate our achievement.
Needless to say we are conscious of the present inclement weather conditions yet we hope the event will take place as scheduled. We will endeavour to keep you informed by announcements at Masses.
Cold Weather
While the long cold stretch is difficult for all it is particularly difficult for some of our parishioners, especially our seniors, people with a disability and those living in isolated areas. We appeal to those who are able, to keep a watchful eye on others in the locality. Many would appreciate an offer to fetch groceries, water and fuel from the shops. Some, while self-sufficient, would welcome a chat over a cup of tea or coffee. Please follow your Christian convictions and be neighbourly to all.
A number of parishioners have contacted the Parish Office and offered to help in particular needy situations. We appreciate your generous offers of general help and welcome contact from those who could do with assistance at this time.
Latin Mass
The Latin Mass scheduled for St. Patrick’s Church at 5.00pm on this Sunday has been cancelled because of the inclement weather and dangerous road conditions. The organisers are sorry for the inconvenience.
Renew Not Recycle
According to one recycling agency Ireland’s consumption of alcohol over Christmas would fill ‘29 Olympic-sized swimming pools’. On average, adults drank 16 litres of alcohol or 2.5 times their own blood levels. If that’s hard to swallow try this: the nation gobble 4 million boxes of chocolates; guzzled 54 million cans and 15 million bottles of beer, 20 million bottles of wine, 4 million plastic bottles and 28 million cans of soft drinks. Households disposed of 96,500kg of packaging – equivalent to an adult’s weight in cardboard per household – and 4 million sheets of gift-wrap paper. And that was in 2005! Just imagine what it must have been like every Christmas since then.
As Christmas celebrates Jesus’ birth, how could recycling our waste produce seem more pressing a problem than renewing our faith in God and our service of each other? Our feats are always occasions for renewal. Today’s feast, the Baptism of the Lord, shows this. It reminds us of our own baptism and of what we are committed to because of it. We need reminding from time to time that baptism, while it may have come easily, does not come cheaply. It does cost. Today’s Gospel reading (Luke 3:15-16, 21-22) makes that clear: He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (3:16).
So, as we begin this New Year let us not take our baptism for granted, or forget it. That can so easily happen. When the Spirit’s fire truly burns within us, we’ll know that it’s not for recycling used good s but for renewing God’s gifts.
Fr Tom Cahill SVD
Evening Mass in Kilkenny City
Mass is celebrated each weekday evening at 6.15pm at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny. We apologise for announcing Masses at the Cathedral for last week - local parishes were not informed that Masses were cancelled.
Adoration and Prayer at the Friary
There will be an hour of Adoration and Prayer in the Capuchin Friary Church on Sunday, January 10th from 3.00-4.00pm. All welcome.
Questions People Ask
Q. What do you think of postponing the Baptism of children until they are old enough to make their own decision?
A. Depriving a child of Baptism shows a very poor regard for the treasures of Christian life. Baptism is the first of the sacraments of Christian Initiation; the others begin Confirmation and First Communion. Initiation into Christian beliefs, values, thoughts and behaviour begins in early childhood. A Christian home is the ideal setting. Parents who value their faith and Church membership would desire to pass on this faith to their children as much as they would seek the best schooling and medical care for them.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Denis O’Shea, College Road. Margaret Dunlop, Rothe Terrace. Billy McBride. Sheila Burke, St. John’s Terrace. Larry Tynan, Ardboy. Maurice Ryan, Clara. Liz Dempsey, Wexford. John Noonan, Dublin and late of Kilkenny. Eileen Owens, Assumption Place.
Anniversaries: Anna Campion (Sat 6.15), Teresa Holden (Sat 7.00), Maura Nolan (Sun 10.00), Teresa Walsh (Sun 10.30), Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00), Frank O’Shea (Sun 12.00), Sean Devane (Sun 12.30), Cornelius Carroll (Mon 9.30), Catherine & Joseph Brennan, John O’Gara, Ann Smyth, Christy Bateman, Agnes & Robert Brannigan, John & Mamie Brett, Terry Brett, Lily Power, Lorenzo Mahony, Bernadette Warde, James & Annie O’Grady, William, Tess & Joan Murphy, Pauline Hogan, Bernard Kelly.
Intentions for next weekend: Paul Prodromou (Sat 6.15), Tom Langton (Sat 7.00), Michael Drennan (Sun 10.30), Maureen O’Shea (Sun 11.00), Beattie Connell (Sun 12.00), Oliver Mannion (Sun 12.30).
May their souls rest in peace. Amen.
Church Gate Collection
The Irish Wheelchair Association will hold their Church Gate Collection outside all Masses this weekend 9th and 10th January 2010. Please support.
All-Ireland Talent Show
Well done to Aidan Byrne, guitarist with the Parish Youth Choir and Pyrotechnix, on the band’s selection to represent the South East on the All-Ireland Talent Show. Aidan is one of our regular musicians at the 12.30pm Sunday Mass at St. Patrick’s Church. The band has been rehearsing non stop since their selection and hope all will row in behind them and support them in the show. The All Ireland Talent Show airs on RTE 1 at 6.30pm on Sundays. Aidan and his band will appear in the live show on Sunday, 17th January. Let’s give Aidan and the band our fullest support by voting of them next weekend.
Bridge in the Afternoon
Fancy playing a game of bridge in the afternoon? Come along to St Patrick’s Parish Centre on Tuesday, 12th January and every Tuesday thereafter. Time: 3.00pm - 5.00pm. No partner required. All are welcome.
Blood Donation Clinic
Every day, patients in hospitals throughout Ireland require blood transfusions. Sometimes it may be for routine surgical procedure such as a hip operation. Other times it may be for someone recovering from a road traffic accident, major surgery such as a heart bypass or a patient undergoing cancer treatment.
Without your continued generosity the Irish Blood Transfusion Service would not be able to provide the blood and blood products needed in hospitals. We depend on you and others like you to maintain an adequate and safe blood supply to save and improve lives.
Your help is particularly needed during the current cold weather as stocks of blood have diminished. Please consider giving blood this week. Local clinics are as follows:
Kilkenny Rivercourt Hotel:
Sunday, 10th January 2010, from 11.30am to 3.30pm.
Monday 11th, Tuesday 12th, Wednesday 13th and Thursday, 14th January 2010 from 4.30pm to 8.00pm.
The Parish Office and Shop
The St. Patrick’s Parish Office and Shop is open each weekday between 10.00am and 5.00pm. Call in or telephone 056 776 4400 for all parish business. The Office is closed for lunch between 1.00 and 2.00pm.
Senior Help Line
Do you need someone to talk to? Senior Help Line is a confidential listening service for older people by older people for the price of a local call anywhere in Ireland, LoCall 1850 440 444. Senior Help Line is open every day from 10.00am until 4.00pm and from 7.00pm until 10.00pm, 365 days a year.
Older people call us for many reasons… They may feel lonely, isolated or have family or health worries. A small number may fear or be experiencing elder abuse, or are depressed and feel they don’t have the strength to carry on.
Senior Help Line’s trained older volunteers offer a friendly, listening and non-judgemental ear to all callers. So don’t be alone with your problem. Lifting the phone lessens the loneliness. LoCall 1850 440 444.
Public Meeting on Diabetes
All are welcome to a public meeting at 8.00pm on Wednesday, 13th January at the Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny. Guest speakers include Dr. Mary Ryan, Consultant Physician Endocrinologist, Aut Even and Ms. Irene Stokes, Podiatrist, The Foot Clinic, Kilkenny. Admission is free. Organised by the Diabetes Federation of Ireland, 021 427 4229 or email: sro@diabetes.ie
Integritas
This is a domestic centre of Christian spirituality based at Ennisnag, Stoneyford. Contact Linda Rainsberry or Patrick Treacy on 056 772 8902 for further information. Email: enquiries@integritas.ie. Web site www.integritas.ie.
Contemplative Prayer and Reflection evenings continue on every Wednesday evening at 8.00pm. Until the beginning of Lent, they will concentrate upon the theme of how one can discern the particular calling of Jesus Christ in one’s life and allow one’s life to follow him totally. During the Lenten Season, these evenings will then concentrate upon confirming the path in one’s life based upon following him, in the light of his passion and death, where he showed his love for each one of us to the utmost extent.
The Scripture study group is held on the third Thursday of each month at 7.30pm. The evening on Thursday, 21st January will reflect upon chapters five and six of the Gospel of St. Mark. The evening on Thursday, 18th February will reflect upon chapters seven and eight of the Gospel of St. Mark and the evening on Thursday, 18th March will continue with reflection upon chapters nine and ten of this gospel. Please do not hesitate to attend this group even if you can only do so occasionally.
Foulkstown Cemetery
For health and safety reasons vehicular access to Foulkstown Cemetery has been restricted for the duration of the bad weather. We ask your cooperation in this matter.
We plan to have the Official Opening of the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre and adjacent Homes for the Elderly at 2.30pm on next Sunday, 17th January. The Centre will be blessed by Bishop Séamus Freeman and will be officially opened by another Freeman: Mr. Brian Cody, Freeman of Kilkenny City. The St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will provide foot-warming marching music and entertainment during the afternoon.
We plan this to be a great parish celebration and all associated with the parish and the development are invited to attend. This is our parish development and all are asked to come along and celebrate our achievement.
Needless to say we are conscious of the present inclement weather conditions yet we hope the event will take place as scheduled. We will endeavour to keep you informed by announcements at Masses.
Cold Weather
While the long cold stretch is difficult for all it is particularly difficult for some of our parishioners, especially our seniors, people with a disability and those living in isolated areas. We appeal to those who are able, to keep a watchful eye on others in the locality. Many would appreciate an offer to fetch groceries, water and fuel from the shops. Some, while self-sufficient, would welcome a chat over a cup of tea or coffee. Please follow your Christian convictions and be neighbourly to all.
A number of parishioners have contacted the Parish Office and offered to help in particular needy situations. We appreciate your generous offers of general help and welcome contact from those who could do with assistance at this time.
Latin Mass
The Latin Mass scheduled for St. Patrick’s Church at 5.00pm on this Sunday has been cancelled because of the inclement weather and dangerous road conditions. The organisers are sorry for the inconvenience.
Renew Not Recycle
According to one recycling agency Ireland’s consumption of alcohol over Christmas would fill ‘29 Olympic-sized swimming pools’. On average, adults drank 16 litres of alcohol or 2.5 times their own blood levels. If that’s hard to swallow try this: the nation gobble 4 million boxes of chocolates; guzzled 54 million cans and 15 million bottles of beer, 20 million bottles of wine, 4 million plastic bottles and 28 million cans of soft drinks. Households disposed of 96,500kg of packaging – equivalent to an adult’s weight in cardboard per household – and 4 million sheets of gift-wrap paper. And that was in 2005! Just imagine what it must have been like every Christmas since then.
As Christmas celebrates Jesus’ birth, how could recycling our waste produce seem more pressing a problem than renewing our faith in God and our service of each other? Our feats are always occasions for renewal. Today’s feast, the Baptism of the Lord, shows this. It reminds us of our own baptism and of what we are committed to because of it. We need reminding from time to time that baptism, while it may have come easily, does not come cheaply. It does cost. Today’s Gospel reading (Luke 3:15-16, 21-22) makes that clear: He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (3:16).
So, as we begin this New Year let us not take our baptism for granted, or forget it. That can so easily happen. When the Spirit’s fire truly burns within us, we’ll know that it’s not for recycling used good s but for renewing God’s gifts.
Fr Tom Cahill SVD
Evening Mass in Kilkenny City
Mass is celebrated each weekday evening at 6.15pm at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny. We apologise for announcing Masses at the Cathedral for last week - local parishes were not informed that Masses were cancelled.
Adoration and Prayer at the Friary
There will be an hour of Adoration and Prayer in the Capuchin Friary Church on Sunday, January 10th from 3.00-4.00pm. All welcome.
Questions People Ask
Q. What do you think of postponing the Baptism of children until they are old enough to make their own decision?
A. Depriving a child of Baptism shows a very poor regard for the treasures of Christian life. Baptism is the first of the sacraments of Christian Initiation; the others begin Confirmation and First Communion. Initiation into Christian beliefs, values, thoughts and behaviour begins in early childhood. A Christian home is the ideal setting. Parents who value their faith and Church membership would desire to pass on this faith to their children as much as they would seek the best schooling and medical care for them.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Denis O’Shea, College Road. Margaret Dunlop, Rothe Terrace. Billy McBride. Sheila Burke, St. John’s Terrace. Larry Tynan, Ardboy. Maurice Ryan, Clara. Liz Dempsey, Wexford. John Noonan, Dublin and late of Kilkenny. Eileen Owens, Assumption Place.
Anniversaries: Anna Campion (Sat 6.15), Teresa Holden (Sat 7.00), Maura Nolan (Sun 10.00), Teresa Walsh (Sun 10.30), Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00), Frank O’Shea (Sun 12.00), Sean Devane (Sun 12.30), Cornelius Carroll (Mon 9.30), Catherine & Joseph Brennan, John O’Gara, Ann Smyth, Christy Bateman, Agnes & Robert Brannigan, John & Mamie Brett, Terry Brett, Lily Power, Lorenzo Mahony, Bernadette Warde, James & Annie O’Grady, William, Tess & Joan Murphy, Pauline Hogan, Bernard Kelly.
Intentions for next weekend: Paul Prodromou (Sat 6.15), Tom Langton (Sat 7.00), Michael Drennan (Sun 10.30), Maureen O’Shea (Sun 11.00), Beattie Connell (Sun 12.00), Oliver Mannion (Sun 12.30).
May their souls rest in peace. Amen.
Church Gate Collection
The Irish Wheelchair Association will hold their Church Gate Collection outside all Masses this weekend 9th and 10th January 2010. Please support.
All-Ireland Talent Show
Well done to Aidan Byrne, guitarist with the Parish Youth Choir and Pyrotechnix, on the band’s selection to represent the South East on the All-Ireland Talent Show. Aidan is one of our regular musicians at the 12.30pm Sunday Mass at St. Patrick’s Church. The band has been rehearsing non stop since their selection and hope all will row in behind them and support them in the show. The All Ireland Talent Show airs on RTE 1 at 6.30pm on Sundays. Aidan and his band will appear in the live show on Sunday, 17th January. Let’s give Aidan and the band our fullest support by voting of them next weekend.
Bridge in the Afternoon
Fancy playing a game of bridge in the afternoon? Come along to St Patrick’s Parish Centre on Tuesday, 12th January and every Tuesday thereafter. Time: 3.00pm - 5.00pm. No partner required. All are welcome.
Blood Donation Clinic
Every day, patients in hospitals throughout Ireland require blood transfusions. Sometimes it may be for routine surgical procedure such as a hip operation. Other times it may be for someone recovering from a road traffic accident, major surgery such as a heart bypass or a patient undergoing cancer treatment.
Without your continued generosity the Irish Blood Transfusion Service would not be able to provide the blood and blood products needed in hospitals. We depend on you and others like you to maintain an adequate and safe blood supply to save and improve lives.
Your help is particularly needed during the current cold weather as stocks of blood have diminished. Please consider giving blood this week. Local clinics are as follows:
Kilkenny Rivercourt Hotel:
Sunday, 10th January 2010, from 11.30am to 3.30pm.
Monday 11th, Tuesday 12th, Wednesday 13th and Thursday, 14th January 2010 from 4.30pm to 8.00pm.
The Parish Office and Shop
The St. Patrick’s Parish Office and Shop is open each weekday between 10.00am and 5.00pm. Call in or telephone 056 776 4400 for all parish business. The Office is closed for lunch between 1.00 and 2.00pm.
Senior Help Line
Do you need someone to talk to? Senior Help Line is a confidential listening service for older people by older people for the price of a local call anywhere in Ireland, LoCall 1850 440 444. Senior Help Line is open every day from 10.00am until 4.00pm and from 7.00pm until 10.00pm, 365 days a year.
Older people call us for many reasons… They may feel lonely, isolated or have family or health worries. A small number may fear or be experiencing elder abuse, or are depressed and feel they don’t have the strength to carry on.
Senior Help Line’s trained older volunteers offer a friendly, listening and non-judgemental ear to all callers. So don’t be alone with your problem. Lifting the phone lessens the loneliness. LoCall 1850 440 444.
Public Meeting on Diabetes
All are welcome to a public meeting at 8.00pm on Wednesday, 13th January at the Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny. Guest speakers include Dr. Mary Ryan, Consultant Physician Endocrinologist, Aut Even and Ms. Irene Stokes, Podiatrist, The Foot Clinic, Kilkenny. Admission is free. Organised by the Diabetes Federation of Ireland, 021 427 4229 or email: sro@diabetes.ie
Integritas
This is a domestic centre of Christian spirituality based at Ennisnag, Stoneyford. Contact Linda Rainsberry or Patrick Treacy on 056 772 8902 for further information. Email: enquiries@integritas.ie. Web site www.integritas.ie.
Contemplative Prayer and Reflection evenings continue on every Wednesday evening at 8.00pm. Until the beginning of Lent, they will concentrate upon the theme of how one can discern the particular calling of Jesus Christ in one’s life and allow one’s life to follow him totally. During the Lenten Season, these evenings will then concentrate upon confirming the path in one’s life based upon following him, in the light of his passion and death, where he showed his love for each one of us to the utmost extent.
The Scripture study group is held on the third Thursday of each month at 7.30pm. The evening on Thursday, 21st January will reflect upon chapters five and six of the Gospel of St. Mark. The evening on Thursday, 18th February will reflect upon chapters seven and eight of the Gospel of St. Mark and the evening on Thursday, 18th March will continue with reflection upon chapters nine and ten of this gospel. Please do not hesitate to attend this group even if you can only do so occasionally.
Foulkstown Cemetery
For health and safety reasons vehicular access to Foulkstown Cemetery has been restricted for the duration of the bad weather. We ask your cooperation in this matter.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Second Sunday After Christmas 3rd January 2010
Cardinal Cahal Daly (1917 - 2009)
(Statement by Cardinal Seán Brady)
It is difficult to do full justice to the significance and achievements of his long, full and happy life but I believe, when fully assessed and appreciated, the legacy of Cardinal Cahal Daly to the ecclesiastical and civil history of Ireland will be seen as immense.
Having attended the Second Vatican Council as an expert theologian he worked untiringly for the renewal which it promoted. This was especially evident in his commitment to liturgical reform, renewal of religious life, the vocation of the lay faithful, catechetics, the social doctrine of the Church and unity among Christians. His writings in philosophy and theology were widely acclaimed and the influence of his keen intellect and energy on the work and publications of the Irish Bishops’ Conference was vast.
At a critical and troubled time in Irish history, he was prophetic in his conviction that lasting peace can only be built on justice, mutual understanding and respect for the traditions and aspirations of others. He was firm and courageous in his absolute rejection of violence as a means of achieving political ends. With leaders of other Christian traditions, his work for reconciliation helped to create the environment and principles upon which a lasting political accommodation was eventually reached.
In all of this, Cardinal Daly remained, first and foremost, a kind and gentle shepherd of God’s people who, on his appointment as Cardinal, in June 1991, prayed that he might never lose the sense of enthusiasm for the following of Christ and for his Gospel. That was never likely to happen for I knew him as a man of deep prayer and unshakable faith. In the words of one of his favourite verses from St. Paul, he was resolute in his belief that God’s power ‘working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask for or imagine’ (Ephesians 3:20-21).
A natural teacher, a consummate scholar, a kind friend and a faithful and holy priest, Cardinal Daly will be missed by those whose lives he graced. Our country has lost one of its brightest lights and most able sons, who played a vital role in promoting reconciliation, peace and justice at a critical moment in our history. His total commitment to the service and good of others was rooted in the central conviction of his life, captured by the words of his Episcopal motto – ‘Jesus Christ is the same today as he was yesterday and as he will be forever’ (Hebrews 13:8).
Masses Back to Normal
Our daily Mass schedule returns to normal this Monday with 9.30am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church and 10.30am Mass in St. Fiacre’s Church.
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament continues at St. Fiacre’s Church from 11am to 10.00pm on Monday, 4th January and in St. Patrick’s Church from 10am to 1pm and 4pm to 9pm Friday, 9th January. All welcome.
The Epiphany of the Lord
The feast of the Epiphany occurs on Wednesday of this week. Masses begin on Tuesday evening and follow the weekend schedule.
Questions People Ask
Q. What do the letters IHS stand for?
A. There have been several meanings down through the centuries. These are the first three letters of the name of Jesus in Greek. These letters also happen to be the initial letters of the three Greek words for Our Saviour. Then as Latin took over, these were the initial letters of In Hoc Signo, ‘in this sign you will conquer’, the message given to the Emperor Constantine before a decisive battle. A later application in English understands these letters as an acronym for I Have Suffered.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
St. Patrick’s Parish Centre
We are busy making plans for the official opening of the new Parish Centre and Homes for the Elderly which, please God, will be held on the afternoon of Sunday, 17th January 2010.
We plan this to be a great parish celebration and we invite you to keep the afternoon free. All are invited to attend.
We will keep you informed of the details as they emerge. Make sure to mark the day in your diary.
The Parish Office and Shop
The St. Patrick’s Parish Office and Shop will reopen on Monday at 10.00am. Call in or telephone 056 776 4400 for all parish business. The Office is closed for lunch between 1.00 and 2.00pm.
St. Patrick’s Parish Calendars
We are delighted to offer parish calendars again this year. Calendars may be picked up at the back of all our parish churches. Please feel free to take a few and pass them on to friends.
St. Patrick’s Parish Website
Our parish website provides an opportunity for those away from ‘The Village’ to check out local parish and community activities. The website is always available at www.patricksparish.com. The website continues to be redesigned and comments and suggestions are welcomed.
Charitable Donations Refund
We have recently received a cheque for €59,245.89 from the Revenue Commissioners representing a refund of the income tax you paid on your charitable contributions to St. Patrick’s Parish. As you can see this is an invaluable source of income for the parish and the best part is that it comes at no extra cost to you: we simply reclaim the tax you paid on donations over €250 per year (about €5 per week). Thanks to all who returned signed CHY2 Forms enabling us to make the claim. We’ll be in touch soon seeking signatures for the year ending December 2009.
Pray for Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Catherine Dunphy, Cedarwood Avenue. James Kearney, Kells Road. Joan Crotty late of Patrick Street. Cardinal Cahal Daly.
Anniversaries: Billy & Anastasia Hickey (Sat 6.15), Maura Molloy (Sat 6.15), Philomena Brennan (Sat 7.00), Harry Joe O’Connor (Sun 10.00), Peg, Jack & Breda Molloy (Sun 10.30), Michael Kenny & John Condon (Sun 12.00), Peg Larkin (Tues 10.30), Christine and Rose Leahy (Tue 6.15), Monica Dooley (Wed 12.30), Michael Kelly (Thur 10.30), John McKiernan, Liam Costello, Ned & Kitty Everard, Annie Ruth, Rita Burke, Patrick, Delia & Margaret Taylor.
Intentions Next Weekend: Anna Campion (Sat 6.15), Teresa Holden (Sat 7.00), Maura Nolan (Sun 10.00) Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00), Frank O’Shea (Sun 12.00), Sean Devane (Sun 12.30).
Notices for the Newsletter
Space allowing, we endeavour to publish all notices of interest to parishioners and members of the wider community. Needless to say such notices must respect our Catholic ethos. Please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400 or stpatricksparish@ossory.ie if you would like to have a notice included. Please let us have notices as early as possible but certainly by the Thursday before publication and include a contact number (not necessarily for publication) so that we can contact you for any clarifications.
Requests for inclusion in our parish anniversary lists should also be sent in as early as possible. As we often have to check name spellings, duplication etc. it would help if such notices also included contact numbers.
Relationship Counseling
Accord Kilkenny, based at St. Mary’s Centre, James’ Street, offers couple and relationship counseling for couples and individuals experiencing marital and relationship problems. Please contact the office for an appointment. Office Hours: Monday, 2.00pm to 5.00pm; Wednesday, 11.00am to 1.00pm; Thursday, 2.00pm to 5.00pm and Friday, 11.00am to 1.00pm. Telephone 056 772 2674 for an appointment.
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The January meeting of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place in the Parish Centre on Friday, 8th January after the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church.
Public Rosary
The monthly rosary on the first Sunday at the statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny at James Green continues on this Sunday, 3rd January at 3.00pm.
Br. Edmund Rice Monthly Mass
The Monthly Mass to pray for the blessings of Edmund Rice on our lives and for his Canonisation will be held at Westcourt on Monday, 4th January at 7.30pm. All welcome.
Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes
Bookings are now invited for our Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, May 22nd - May 27th 2010. The cost is €720p.p.s. All who are interested in travelling should contact Glenmore Parish Office on 051 880414: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 10.30am - 2.30pm or email glenmore@ossory.ie.
Public Meeting on Diabetes
All are welcome to a public meeting at 8.00pm on Wednesday, 13th January at the Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny. Guest speakers include Dr. Mary Ryan, Consultant Physician Endocrinologist, Aut Even and Ms. Irene Stokes, Podiatrist, The Foot Clinic, Kilkenny. Admission is free. Organised by the Diabetes Federation of Ireland, 021 427 4229 or email: sro@diabetes.ie
Evening Mass in Kilkenny City
Mass is celebrated each weekday evening at 6.15pm at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny. However, please note Mass is not celebrated on the eve of holydays or on holydays.
Senior Help Line
Do you need someone to talk to? Senior Help Line is a confidential listening service for older people by older people for the price of a local call anywhere in Ireland, LoCall 1850 440 444. Senior Help Line is open every day from 10.00am until 4.00pm and from 7.00pm until 10.00pm, 365 days a year.
Older people call us for many reasons… They may feel lonely, isolated or have family or health worries. A small number may fear or be experiencing elder abuse, or are depressed and feel they don’t have the strength to carry on.
Senior Help Line’s trained older volunteers offer a friendly, listening and non-judgemental ear to all callers. So don’t be alone with your problem. Lifting the phone lessens the loneliness. We will be waiting for your call. LoCall 1850 440 444
Bingo
All welcome to Bingo in Danesfort Community and Parish Centre (at the rear of St. Michael’s Church) on every Wednesday at 8.30pm. Shop available.
Church Gate Collection
The Irish Wheelchair Association has a Garda permit for a Church Gate Collection next weekend.
Born of God
The United Sates eased restrictions on sex selection of embryos in 2001. Since then ‘medical tourism’ for ‘family balancing’ has increased. The total cost of procedures, travel and accommodation to ensure the birth of a baby of the desired sex can reach €23,000. I wonder how much time, effort and money the parents subsequently spend on rearing the child to be ‘holy and blameless before God in love’. Today’s Second Reading (Eph 1:3-6, 15-18) tells us that God chose us – even before the foundation of the world – to be holy and blameless before him. That’s God’s choice and our calling regardless of our sex. When being male or female becomes more important than being a person then we’ve lost the run of ourselves. As we evolve, and hopefully mature, on this planet and learn to control Nature more and more the challenge is to allow God to be God in our lives, i.e., to leave things in God’s hands, to use an old-fashioned expression. Maybe even to leave anything in God’s hands. Why should we, when ours can do what we want them to do? Apart from the moral issues involved in so much invasive procedure and its consequences where fertility and birth are concerned, such as the fate of embryos who don’t pass muster to see the light of day, the more basic question of whether we should accept life as it comes arises. There’s no easy yes or no to that. But as people of faith we note that while Jesus’ birth was not without planning, his life was without calculation.
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD
(Statement by Cardinal Seán Brady)
It is difficult to do full justice to the significance and achievements of his long, full and happy life but I believe, when fully assessed and appreciated, the legacy of Cardinal Cahal Daly to the ecclesiastical and civil history of Ireland will be seen as immense.
Having attended the Second Vatican Council as an expert theologian he worked untiringly for the renewal which it promoted. This was especially evident in his commitment to liturgical reform, renewal of religious life, the vocation of the lay faithful, catechetics, the social doctrine of the Church and unity among Christians. His writings in philosophy and theology were widely acclaimed and the influence of his keen intellect and energy on the work and publications of the Irish Bishops’ Conference was vast.
At a critical and troubled time in Irish history, he was prophetic in his conviction that lasting peace can only be built on justice, mutual understanding and respect for the traditions and aspirations of others. He was firm and courageous in his absolute rejection of violence as a means of achieving political ends. With leaders of other Christian traditions, his work for reconciliation helped to create the environment and principles upon which a lasting political accommodation was eventually reached.
In all of this, Cardinal Daly remained, first and foremost, a kind and gentle shepherd of God’s people who, on his appointment as Cardinal, in June 1991, prayed that he might never lose the sense of enthusiasm for the following of Christ and for his Gospel. That was never likely to happen for I knew him as a man of deep prayer and unshakable faith. In the words of one of his favourite verses from St. Paul, he was resolute in his belief that God’s power ‘working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask for or imagine’ (Ephesians 3:20-21).
A natural teacher, a consummate scholar, a kind friend and a faithful and holy priest, Cardinal Daly will be missed by those whose lives he graced. Our country has lost one of its brightest lights and most able sons, who played a vital role in promoting reconciliation, peace and justice at a critical moment in our history. His total commitment to the service and good of others was rooted in the central conviction of his life, captured by the words of his Episcopal motto – ‘Jesus Christ is the same today as he was yesterday and as he will be forever’ (Hebrews 13:8).
Masses Back to Normal
Our daily Mass schedule returns to normal this Monday with 9.30am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church and 10.30am Mass in St. Fiacre’s Church.
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament continues at St. Fiacre’s Church from 11am to 10.00pm on Monday, 4th January and in St. Patrick’s Church from 10am to 1pm and 4pm to 9pm Friday, 9th January. All welcome.
The Epiphany of the Lord
The feast of the Epiphany occurs on Wednesday of this week. Masses begin on Tuesday evening and follow the weekend schedule.
Questions People Ask
Q. What do the letters IHS stand for?
A. There have been several meanings down through the centuries. These are the first three letters of the name of Jesus in Greek. These letters also happen to be the initial letters of the three Greek words for Our Saviour. Then as Latin took over, these were the initial letters of In Hoc Signo, ‘in this sign you will conquer’, the message given to the Emperor Constantine before a decisive battle. A later application in English understands these letters as an acronym for I Have Suffered.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
St. Patrick’s Parish Centre
We are busy making plans for the official opening of the new Parish Centre and Homes for the Elderly which, please God, will be held on the afternoon of Sunday, 17th January 2010.
We plan this to be a great parish celebration and we invite you to keep the afternoon free. All are invited to attend.
We will keep you informed of the details as they emerge. Make sure to mark the day in your diary.
The Parish Office and Shop
The St. Patrick’s Parish Office and Shop will reopen on Monday at 10.00am. Call in or telephone 056 776 4400 for all parish business. The Office is closed for lunch between 1.00 and 2.00pm.
St. Patrick’s Parish Calendars
We are delighted to offer parish calendars again this year. Calendars may be picked up at the back of all our parish churches. Please feel free to take a few and pass them on to friends.
St. Patrick’s Parish Website
Our parish website provides an opportunity for those away from ‘The Village’ to check out local parish and community activities. The website is always available at www.patricksparish.com. The website continues to be redesigned and comments and suggestions are welcomed.
Charitable Donations Refund
We have recently received a cheque for €59,245.89 from the Revenue Commissioners representing a refund of the income tax you paid on your charitable contributions to St. Patrick’s Parish. As you can see this is an invaluable source of income for the parish and the best part is that it comes at no extra cost to you: we simply reclaim the tax you paid on donations over €250 per year (about €5 per week). Thanks to all who returned signed CHY2 Forms enabling us to make the claim. We’ll be in touch soon seeking signatures for the year ending December 2009.
Pray for Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Catherine Dunphy, Cedarwood Avenue. James Kearney, Kells Road. Joan Crotty late of Patrick Street. Cardinal Cahal Daly.
Anniversaries: Billy & Anastasia Hickey (Sat 6.15), Maura Molloy (Sat 6.15), Philomena Brennan (Sat 7.00), Harry Joe O’Connor (Sun 10.00), Peg, Jack & Breda Molloy (Sun 10.30), Michael Kenny & John Condon (Sun 12.00), Peg Larkin (Tues 10.30), Christine and Rose Leahy (Tue 6.15), Monica Dooley (Wed 12.30), Michael Kelly (Thur 10.30), John McKiernan, Liam Costello, Ned & Kitty Everard, Annie Ruth, Rita Burke, Patrick, Delia & Margaret Taylor.
Intentions Next Weekend: Anna Campion (Sat 6.15), Teresa Holden (Sat 7.00), Maura Nolan (Sun 10.00) Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00), Frank O’Shea (Sun 12.00), Sean Devane (Sun 12.30).
Notices for the Newsletter
Space allowing, we endeavour to publish all notices of interest to parishioners and members of the wider community. Needless to say such notices must respect our Catholic ethos. Please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400 or stpatricksparish@ossory.ie if you would like to have a notice included. Please let us have notices as early as possible but certainly by the Thursday before publication and include a contact number (not necessarily for publication) so that we can contact you for any clarifications.
Requests for inclusion in our parish anniversary lists should also be sent in as early as possible. As we often have to check name spellings, duplication etc. it would help if such notices also included contact numbers.
Relationship Counseling
Accord Kilkenny, based at St. Mary’s Centre, James’ Street, offers couple and relationship counseling for couples and individuals experiencing marital and relationship problems. Please contact the office for an appointment. Office Hours: Monday, 2.00pm to 5.00pm; Wednesday, 11.00am to 1.00pm; Thursday, 2.00pm to 5.00pm and Friday, 11.00am to 1.00pm. Telephone 056 772 2674 for an appointment.
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The January meeting of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place in the Parish Centre on Friday, 8th January after the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church.
Public Rosary
The monthly rosary on the first Sunday at the statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny at James Green continues on this Sunday, 3rd January at 3.00pm.
Br. Edmund Rice Monthly Mass
The Monthly Mass to pray for the blessings of Edmund Rice on our lives and for his Canonisation will be held at Westcourt on Monday, 4th January at 7.30pm. All welcome.
Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes
Bookings are now invited for our Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, May 22nd - May 27th 2010. The cost is €720p.p.s. All who are interested in travelling should contact Glenmore Parish Office on 051 880414: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 10.30am - 2.30pm or email glenmore@ossory.ie.
Public Meeting on Diabetes
All are welcome to a public meeting at 8.00pm on Wednesday, 13th January at the Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny. Guest speakers include Dr. Mary Ryan, Consultant Physician Endocrinologist, Aut Even and Ms. Irene Stokes, Podiatrist, The Foot Clinic, Kilkenny. Admission is free. Organised by the Diabetes Federation of Ireland, 021 427 4229 or email: sro@diabetes.ie
Evening Mass in Kilkenny City
Mass is celebrated each weekday evening at 6.15pm at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny. However, please note Mass is not celebrated on the eve of holydays or on holydays.
Senior Help Line
Do you need someone to talk to? Senior Help Line is a confidential listening service for older people by older people for the price of a local call anywhere in Ireland, LoCall 1850 440 444. Senior Help Line is open every day from 10.00am until 4.00pm and from 7.00pm until 10.00pm, 365 days a year.
Older people call us for many reasons… They may feel lonely, isolated or have family or health worries. A small number may fear or be experiencing elder abuse, or are depressed and feel they don’t have the strength to carry on.
Senior Help Line’s trained older volunteers offer a friendly, listening and non-judgemental ear to all callers. So don’t be alone with your problem. Lifting the phone lessens the loneliness. We will be waiting for your call. LoCall 1850 440 444
Bingo
All welcome to Bingo in Danesfort Community and Parish Centre (at the rear of St. Michael’s Church) on every Wednesday at 8.30pm. Shop available.
Church Gate Collection
The Irish Wheelchair Association has a Garda permit for a Church Gate Collection next weekend.
Born of God
The United Sates eased restrictions on sex selection of embryos in 2001. Since then ‘medical tourism’ for ‘family balancing’ has increased. The total cost of procedures, travel and accommodation to ensure the birth of a baby of the desired sex can reach €23,000. I wonder how much time, effort and money the parents subsequently spend on rearing the child to be ‘holy and blameless before God in love’. Today’s Second Reading (Eph 1:3-6, 15-18) tells us that God chose us – even before the foundation of the world – to be holy and blameless before him. That’s God’s choice and our calling regardless of our sex. When being male or female becomes more important than being a person then we’ve lost the run of ourselves. As we evolve, and hopefully mature, on this planet and learn to control Nature more and more the challenge is to allow God to be God in our lives, i.e., to leave things in God’s hands, to use an old-fashioned expression. Maybe even to leave anything in God’s hands. Why should we, when ours can do what we want them to do? Apart from the moral issues involved in so much invasive procedure and its consequences where fertility and birth are concerned, such as the fate of embryos who don’t pass muster to see the light of day, the more basic question of whether we should accept life as it comes arises. There’s no easy yes or no to that. But as people of faith we note that while Jesus’ birth was not without planning, his life was without calculation.
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD
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