Happy Easter
The priests and members of the St. Patrick’s Parish Team wish all in our community a very happy Easter. May the blessings of the Lord’s resurrection give us new hope and strengthen our faith.
Holy Week Liturgies
Thanks to all who helped celebrate our Holy Week Liturgies. Many people worked away in the background while others came forward to help in the sanctuary. Thanks to one and all.
Thanks also to all who attended our Holy Week Liturgies. It was uplifting to join in prayer with so many like-minded people from within our community and beyond.
Easter Week in our Parish
Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am each morning during the coming week. Please note: there will be no 9.30am Mass at St. Patrick’s Church and no 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church.
Blessed Sacrament Exposition
All are invited to come to St. Fiacre’s Church at any time between 11.00am and 10.00pm on Monday to spend some time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament.
Parish Envelopes
New sets of parish contribution envelopes are being distributed at the moment. Distributers who have not yet received their envelopes from the Parish Office are asked to contact Fr. Liam during the week (776 4400).
Parishioners who do not receive an envelope pack within the next few weeks are asked to contact the Parish Office (776 4400). Those who have not received contribution envelopes in the past and wish to contribute to the parish and priests in this way should contact the Parish Office and request a pack.
We take this opportunity to thank those who contribute to the parish and priests through the envelope pack and/or standing orders.
Surfing in the Highest
According to The Times newspaper (14/12/2009) millions of young people in Britain are lonely despite having hundreds of so-called ‘friends’ on social networking sites. Presumably Britain is not alone in this. Those who seek friends at arms-length are bound to be unhappy. Friendship is intended to be right up close and personal. Virtual reality can’t substitute for the real thing. Surfing the Net may seem cool, bright and breezy, even exciting; but it’s well to remember that it’s not called ‘the net’ for nothing. Being trapped by virtual friendships that may well be just illusionary, if not downright predatory, won’t fill the void within an individual. The survey of more than 2,000 adults found that loneliness was a major worry for 21 per cent of people aged 18-24, compared with only 8 per cent of those aged 55 and over. Easter Sunday is the Church’s most important celebration. It may seen a bit of virtual reality to some, but not to those of faith. Jesus came right up close and personal to bring us resurrection. Today’s Second Reading (Col 3:1-4) tells us what we should be ‘surfing’ for: the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. The ‘catch’, if you want to call it that, is that resurrection can’t be found in virtual reality. You won’t find it outside daily living with those who like and dislike. Resurrection is rising through reality – even because of reality – to the glory God has in store for those who value real friends in real life.
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD
St. Patrick’s Adult Folk Choir
The Adult Folk Choir is celebrating its 20th year since formation. To mark the occasion the choir will sing at a celebratory Mass on Saturday, 24th April at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church. They would love all former members to come and join them on this special evening. All are welcome.
There will be a ‘get together’ after Mass in Delaney’s, Patrick Street.
Questions People Ask
Q. Why isn’t there a set date for Easter as for Christmas? Wouldn’t it be much more practical for arranging school terms, holidays, etc?
A. We celebrate Easter on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the Spring Equinox, that is, 21st March. This ancient tradition developed from the Jewish Passover. By taking account of the cycle of the sun and the phase of the moon, the resurrection is connected to the entire universe. It points to the exalted position of Jesus Christ, the Beginning and the End, to whom all the time belongs and all creation. Having a set date for Easter might be practical, but we need reminders that there is more to life and religion than practical planning. Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Eileen Martin, late of Newpark, Kilkenny. Requiem Mass at St. John’s Church at 12.00 noon on Sunday followed by burial at St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Patrick Burke, Kells Road. Michael (Mick) Grace, Palmerstown.
Months Mind: Matthew Gleeson (Sun 12.00)
Anniversaries: Josephine O’Neill (Sun 10.00); Sheila Ramsbottom (Thur 11.00), Pope John Paul II; Martin & Elizabeth Brennan; Edward, Mary & Theresa McDonald; Mary Lawlor; Paddy Slattery; Neil Cooke; Paddy & Billy Cleere; Ellen Kelly; Alan Kelly.
Intentions for next weekend: Martin Hoyne (Sat 6.15); Paddy Burke (Sat 7.00 Months Mind); Sheila Keaney (Sun 10.30); Paddy McGrath (Sun 11.00); Denis Kavanagh (Sun 12.00); Andy Henderson (Sun 12.30, Months Mind).
Rosary
The monthly rosary on the First Sunday in James Green at the Statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny continues this Sunday, 4th April at 3pm. Come and celebrate the Risen Christ.
A Walk on the White Side
An exhibition of Paintings by Pat Holland now showing at Loughboy Library. The exhibition runs until 10th April.
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The April meeting of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place on Friday 16th April (not on the second Friday) due to the Easter Break. New members always welcome.
Healing Service
A healing service will take place in St. Fiacre’s church on Thursday, 15th April at 7.30pm. Healing service and Mass in St. Fiacre’s Church on Thurs 29th April at 7.30pm.
IHCPT Lourdes Pilgrimage
Fr. Dan and a number of local volunteers head to Lourdes with the Irish Children’s Pilgrimage Trust very early on this Easter Sunday morning. The Trust raises money and brings young people with special needs to Lourdes each Easter. Adult helpers pay for themselves but agree to raise funds to provide for the young people. Funds were particularly low this year and the members of the local group would like to say a special thank you to those who supported our fundraisers so generously. Your generosity enabled us to reach our target once again.
A special Trust Mass will be celebrated in Lourdes on Thursday morning next at 9.00am (Irish time). The Trust group will also be at the grotto for Mass on Friday morning at 7.30am (Irish time). Both of these celebrations will be broadcast live on the internet at www.lourdes-france.com
Fundraiser
The Irish Professional Photographers Association are fundraising for the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland. The money raised in Kilkenny will go to providing isolation facilitates for people living with CF in the area should they need hospitalisation. The local participating photographer is Maria of Kilkenny (Oliver’s) on High St. For a donation €25 to CFAI we will provide a mini portrait session and desk portrait. 100% of all monies raised will go to the charity. This is the 5th year of the event and we have raised €180,000 so far.
Trócaire Family Fast Boxes
Thanks to all who contributed to Trócaire during Lent by using the Family Fast Boxes. Please return the contents to our church as soon as possible and the money will be forwarded to Trócaire on your behalf. It is possible to write a cheque for the amount collected and forward it directly to Trócaire - details on the boxes.
Westcourt News
The Mass for the blessings of Edmund Rice on our lives and for his canonisation will be celebrated in Westcourt on Monday, 5th April 2010 at 7.30pm. All are welcome.
Pilgrimage to Knock
There will be a pilgrimage to Knock Shrine on Sunday next the 11th April for Divine Mercy Sunday. A bus will run from the Parade, Kilkenny at 8am. Booking Murphy’s Boutique, 11 High Street, Kilkenny. Tel 056 772 1495.
Daffodil Day Thanks
A huge thank you to everyone who came out to support us on Daffodil Day Friday, 26th March! Whether you took to the streets and sold Daffodil Day merchandise or bought some on the day, please know we simply could not do it without you!
Every daffodil, keyring or pin sold allows the Irish Cancer Society to continue to provide information services and free cancer patient care.
Nursing Homes Support Scheme
A new scheme of financial support for long-term nursing home care has recently been introduced by the HSE. If you or a loved one is in need of nursing home care, or if you would simply like to find out more about the new scheme, please call the HSE Infoline on 1850 24 1850 and ask for information on the Nursing Homes Support Scheme, A Fair Deal. Alternatively, log on to www.dohc.ie/issues/fair_deal.
Eucharistic Ministers
A number of parishioners were commissioned as Ministers of the Eucharist on Holy Thursday evening and some more were recommissioned having served the parish for three and six years. Thanks to all who provide this wonderful service to the local community.
More on Envelope Distributors
We need distributors for the following areas:
Beechpark, Archers Avenue, and Castle Gardens. If you think you can help please contact Fr. Liam. Thanks once again.
Parish Office
The Parish Office will be closed this coming week. Notices can be left into the Parish Centre and to Fr. Liam (Green Door) or Fr. Roderick’s house (Red Door). Please do not leave notices into Fr. Dan’s.
Notices for the newsletter must be in by Thursday at the latest in order to guarantee publication. Thanks for your cooperation.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Passion (Palm) Sunday 28th March 2010
Holy Week Ceremonies
We appeal to all to make a special effort to join with our local Christian Community in celebrating Holy Week. We have a wide range of celebrations at various times in our parish and we invite you to come along.
We particularly invite all to the Solemn Easter Vigil on Saturday evening. This should be the highlight of the year for those who believe that Christ died for our sins and rose again to save us from eternal damnation.
Chrism Mass
The annual Chrism Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Cathedral on Wednesday, 31st April at 7.30pm. Sacred Oils, for use in the diocese during the coming year, will be consecrated during the liturgy. Bishop Séamus invites all to attend.
At this Mass, the priests of the diocese gather and renew their priestly vows. To mark the current Year of the Priest, Frs. Dan, Roderick and Liam invite you to come along and join with them in prayer. The sacred music for the occasion will be provided by the St. Patrick’s Adult Folk Choir and the St. Fiacre’s Folk Choir.
Mass for Lent
Thanks to all who attended the extra 6.15pm Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church during Lent. Please note there will not be a 6.15pm Mass on Wednesday to enable priests and people attend the Chrism Mass at the cathedral. See the timetable printed on the front for our full Easter ceremonies.
Eucharistic Adoration
Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Patrick’s Church every Friday (except Good Friday) from 10.00am until 1.00pm and from 4.00pm until 9.00pm. On Holy Thursday after the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St. Patrick’s Church the Blessed Sacrament will be on the altar of Repose in the Nun’s Chapel until 10pm. All adorers are welcome.
New adorers urgently needed. Contact Grace on 056 777 0472.
New Parish Envelopes
New Parish Contribution Envelopes will be distributed in the coming weeks. We are grateful to all who use these envelopes or Standing Orders to contribute to the income of the parish and the priests. These are the chief sources of income for the parish and its priests. If you are new to the parish, or haven’t received envelopes in the past and would like to receive them now, then please contact any of the priests or the Parish Office. Once again, thanks to all who support us and our work.
Parish Centre Hours
The Parish Centre will be closed on Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Weekend including the Bank Holiday. Groups that use our facilities on these days are asked to take note. The priests can always be contacted by dialling 056 776 4400 and following the auto prompts.
Pope’s Pastoral Letter
Quote from the Holy Father’s recent letter to the Catholics of Ireland: ‘I now invite all of you to devote your Friday penances, for a period of one year, between now and Easter 2011, to pray for an outpouring of God’s mercy and the Holy Spirit’s gifts of holiness and strength upon the Church in your country. I ask you to offer up your fasting, your prayer, your reading of Scripture and your works of mercy in order to obtain the grace of healing and renewal for the Church in Ireland. I encourage you to discover anew the Sacrament of Reconciliation and to avail yourselves more frequently of the transforming power of its grace. Particular attention should also be given to Eucharistic adoration.’
As part of our parish response to the Holy Father’s request, it is proposed that every Friday in St. Fiacre’s Church, we will have an hour of exposition after Mass from 11.00am to 12.00 noon. We invite anyone who wishes to pray for healing and renewal for the Church in Ireland to join us.
Also, at each Mass on Friday, the Pope’s prayer for Ireland will be read.
More next week on when this devotion will start.
Envelope Distributors
The new boxes of parish envelopes are currently being distributed. We need a distributor in Larchfield. All it entails is dropping envelope boxes into houses in this area. Please contact Fr. Liam if you think you can help. Thanks.
First Friday
As the First Friday of April is Good Friday Fr. Dan will make his calls on Wednesday 30th March. Fr. Liam will make his calls on Thursday, 1st April. Fr. Roderick has visited already.
Online in Touch?
Who would think that the Internet is threatening the jury system! Well, it seems it is, according to England’s most senior judge. The more people use the Internet, and the more people who use it, the fewer there are who get their information by listening. You go down the tubes and YouTube takes your place. So, sitting down for a long listen, concentrating on what’s being said to evaluate its content may well become an art-form alien to a gadget-groping generation. What, then, to make of today’s first reading? The Lord has given me the tongue of a teacher … to sustain the weary with a word. Morning by morning he wakens my ear. Use the Internet to get that sustaining word across? Well, it would get it out for sure, but across is another matter entirely. Getting something across means getting it in. It means entering someone’s mind with a thought, a value, an understanding, perhaps even a vision and leaving it there. It means penetrating someone’s heart to lay a gift of life-giving inspiration, of uplifting hope, of reassurance of one’s worth before God, but above all to lay down his gift of shared love. That’s what a teacher’s tongue can do, coming from the hand of God. That’s what an ear can hear and a mind can comprehend when open to the Teacher’s word. The question is: can that be done online? Should liturgy be in cyberspace, not sacred space? Would a virtual reality Palm Sunday skirt a real life Golgotha? The jury needn’t be out too long on that. Fr Tom Cahill SVD
Pray for Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Betty Healy, S.O.S & Coon; James Tynan, Kells Road; Kitty O’Neill, 34 O’Loughlin Road; Nancy Gleeson, Thurles.
Months Mind: Seamus Brennan (Sun 11.00), Jim Horan (Sun 12.30), Tommy McCarthy (Mon 10.30).
Anniversaries: Paddy Tomney (Sat 6.15), Oliver Kelly (Sat 7.00), Chris Kenny (Sun 9.30), Margaret Dunne (Sun 12.00), Ella Cuddihy (Mon 9.30), Bessie, Margaret & May Buckley (Tues 10.30), Mary Delaney (Wed 9.30), Michael Slattery (Thurs 6.15), William Meehan, Mary Grace, Rose Kenny, Michael & Mary Conway, Mary & James Nugent, Michael & Patrick Massey, Bridget Della Maher, Shane O’Neill, James Doheny, Mary Browne, Ellen Audoire.
Anniversaries Next Weekend: Matthew Gleeson (Month’s Mind, Sun 12.00 noon).
Latin Mass at St. Patrick’s Church
Palm Sunday Procession and Sung Latin Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church on this Sunday at 4.00pm. All are welcome.
Good Friday Walk
Kilkenny Outreach Group is holding this year’s Good Friday Walk in remembrance of those whose lives have been touched by abuse. The walk will begin at 7.30 pm on Good Friday evening from the outside car park of McDonagh Junction (Site of the old Workhouse) and end in the Chapel of the Mill Hill Community on the Waterford Road. (The old St. Joseph’s Orphanage) A service will be held in the Mill Hill Chapel at 8.20 pm. All are welcome to join this walk or to attend the service.
IPPA Fundraising
The Irish Professional Photographers Association is fundraising for the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland. The money raised in Kilkenny will go to providing isolation facilities for people living with CF in the area should they need hospitalisation. Local participating photographer is Maria of Kilkenny (Oliver’s), High Street. For a donation of €25 to CFAI she will provide a minis portrait session and desk portrait. 100% of fee to charity.
Week of Prayer
A week of continuous prayer will take place in the Methodist Church, William Street, Kilkenny. It begins at 1.00pm on Palm Sunday and run until the morning of Easter Sunday. All are invited to go along and join in prayer.
Co. Kilkenny Horticultural Society
A.G.M., Lecture & Plant Sale
Wednesday, 31st March at 7.30pm sharp
Club House Hotel
The evening will feature a lecture on Summer and Spring Planting by Robert Miller (Horticulturist). There will be refreshments and a raffle on the evening. Free Admission. All are welcome.
Questions people ask
Q. If Jesus was the Son of God how could he be forsaken by God the Father?
A. Since Jesus loved his people to the utmost, he became the victim of sin. In so doing, he suffered the feeling of being forsaken, but in actual fact was not forsaken for one second by the Father ... nobody ever is, even the worst sinner. The sinner might have turned away from God but God does not forsake the sinner. There is always hope. No matter how God-forsaken one might feel, Jesus can be met there because he entered that experience of alienation in Gethsemane and on the cross. Since then it is no longer true that any life is God-forsaken.
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Loughboy Library News
Library Book Club will meet this Thursday April 1st at 10.30am and will be discussing “The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas” amongst other favourites. All readers welcome.
The Parish Team/Finance Committee wish to thank all who promoted and subscribed to our Parish Draw. The total raised from this years draw is €104,000 which goes towards the cost of our Parish Centre.
Holy Week Timetable in St. Patrick’s Parish
Spy Wednesday
Morning Masses 9.30am 10.30am
No Evening Mass in St. Fiacre's
Holy Thursday
Morning Prayer 10.30am St. Fiacre's
Mass of the Lord’s Supper 6.15pm St. Fiacre's (Families, 6.30pm St. Joseph's, Foulkstown, 8pm St. Patrick's.
Good Friday
Morning Prayer 10.30am St. Fiacre's
Stations & Penitential Service 12 noon St. Patrick's.
The Lord’s Passion 3pm St. Fiacre's, 3pm St. Patrick's
Stations of the Cross 7.30pm St. Joseph's
Taize Prayer Around the Cross 8pmm St. Patrick's
Holy Saturday
Morning Prayer 10.30am St. Fiacre's
Easter Vigil 9.00pm St. Patrick's
Easter Sunday
Masses as per normal Sunday
We appeal to all to make a special effort to join with our local Christian Community in celebrating Holy Week. We have a wide range of celebrations at various times in our parish and we invite you to come along.
We particularly invite all to the Solemn Easter Vigil on Saturday evening. This should be the highlight of the year for those who believe that Christ died for our sins and rose again to save us from eternal damnation.
Chrism Mass
The annual Chrism Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Cathedral on Wednesday, 31st April at 7.30pm. Sacred Oils, for use in the diocese during the coming year, will be consecrated during the liturgy. Bishop Séamus invites all to attend.
At this Mass, the priests of the diocese gather and renew their priestly vows. To mark the current Year of the Priest, Frs. Dan, Roderick and Liam invite you to come along and join with them in prayer. The sacred music for the occasion will be provided by the St. Patrick’s Adult Folk Choir and the St. Fiacre’s Folk Choir.
Mass for Lent
Thanks to all who attended the extra 6.15pm Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church during Lent. Please note there will not be a 6.15pm Mass on Wednesday to enable priests and people attend the Chrism Mass at the cathedral. See the timetable printed on the front for our full Easter ceremonies.
Eucharistic Adoration
Eucharistic Adoration takes place at St. Patrick’s Church every Friday (except Good Friday) from 10.00am until 1.00pm and from 4.00pm until 9.00pm. On Holy Thursday after the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St. Patrick’s Church the Blessed Sacrament will be on the altar of Repose in the Nun’s Chapel until 10pm. All adorers are welcome.
New adorers urgently needed. Contact Grace on 056 777 0472.
New Parish Envelopes
New Parish Contribution Envelopes will be distributed in the coming weeks. We are grateful to all who use these envelopes or Standing Orders to contribute to the income of the parish and the priests. These are the chief sources of income for the parish and its priests. If you are new to the parish, or haven’t received envelopes in the past and would like to receive them now, then please contact any of the priests or the Parish Office. Once again, thanks to all who support us and our work.
Parish Centre Hours
The Parish Centre will be closed on Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Weekend including the Bank Holiday. Groups that use our facilities on these days are asked to take note. The priests can always be contacted by dialling 056 776 4400 and following the auto prompts.
Pope’s Pastoral Letter
Quote from the Holy Father’s recent letter to the Catholics of Ireland: ‘I now invite all of you to devote your Friday penances, for a period of one year, between now and Easter 2011, to pray for an outpouring of God’s mercy and the Holy Spirit’s gifts of holiness and strength upon the Church in your country. I ask you to offer up your fasting, your prayer, your reading of Scripture and your works of mercy in order to obtain the grace of healing and renewal for the Church in Ireland. I encourage you to discover anew the Sacrament of Reconciliation and to avail yourselves more frequently of the transforming power of its grace. Particular attention should also be given to Eucharistic adoration.’
As part of our parish response to the Holy Father’s request, it is proposed that every Friday in St. Fiacre’s Church, we will have an hour of exposition after Mass from 11.00am to 12.00 noon. We invite anyone who wishes to pray for healing and renewal for the Church in Ireland to join us.
Also, at each Mass on Friday, the Pope’s prayer for Ireland will be read.
More next week on when this devotion will start.
Envelope Distributors
The new boxes of parish envelopes are currently being distributed. We need a distributor in Larchfield. All it entails is dropping envelope boxes into houses in this area. Please contact Fr. Liam if you think you can help. Thanks.
First Friday
As the First Friday of April is Good Friday Fr. Dan will make his calls on Wednesday 30th March. Fr. Liam will make his calls on Thursday, 1st April. Fr. Roderick has visited already.
Online in Touch?
Who would think that the Internet is threatening the jury system! Well, it seems it is, according to England’s most senior judge. The more people use the Internet, and the more people who use it, the fewer there are who get their information by listening. You go down the tubes and YouTube takes your place. So, sitting down for a long listen, concentrating on what’s being said to evaluate its content may well become an art-form alien to a gadget-groping generation. What, then, to make of today’s first reading? The Lord has given me the tongue of a teacher … to sustain the weary with a word. Morning by morning he wakens my ear. Use the Internet to get that sustaining word across? Well, it would get it out for sure, but across is another matter entirely. Getting something across means getting it in. It means entering someone’s mind with a thought, a value, an understanding, perhaps even a vision and leaving it there. It means penetrating someone’s heart to lay a gift of life-giving inspiration, of uplifting hope, of reassurance of one’s worth before God, but above all to lay down his gift of shared love. That’s what a teacher’s tongue can do, coming from the hand of God. That’s what an ear can hear and a mind can comprehend when open to the Teacher’s word. The question is: can that be done online? Should liturgy be in cyberspace, not sacred space? Would a virtual reality Palm Sunday skirt a real life Golgotha? The jury needn’t be out too long on that. Fr Tom Cahill SVD
Pray for Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Betty Healy, S.O.S & Coon; James Tynan, Kells Road; Kitty O’Neill, 34 O’Loughlin Road; Nancy Gleeson, Thurles.
Months Mind: Seamus Brennan (Sun 11.00), Jim Horan (Sun 12.30), Tommy McCarthy (Mon 10.30).
Anniversaries: Paddy Tomney (Sat 6.15), Oliver Kelly (Sat 7.00), Chris Kenny (Sun 9.30), Margaret Dunne (Sun 12.00), Ella Cuddihy (Mon 9.30), Bessie, Margaret & May Buckley (Tues 10.30), Mary Delaney (Wed 9.30), Michael Slattery (Thurs 6.15), William Meehan, Mary Grace, Rose Kenny, Michael & Mary Conway, Mary & James Nugent, Michael & Patrick Massey, Bridget Della Maher, Shane O’Neill, James Doheny, Mary Browne, Ellen Audoire.
Anniversaries Next Weekend: Matthew Gleeson (Month’s Mind, Sun 12.00 noon).
Latin Mass at St. Patrick’s Church
Palm Sunday Procession and Sung Latin Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church on this Sunday at 4.00pm. All are welcome.
Good Friday Walk
Kilkenny Outreach Group is holding this year’s Good Friday Walk in remembrance of those whose lives have been touched by abuse. The walk will begin at 7.30 pm on Good Friday evening from the outside car park of McDonagh Junction (Site of the old Workhouse) and end in the Chapel of the Mill Hill Community on the Waterford Road. (The old St. Joseph’s Orphanage) A service will be held in the Mill Hill Chapel at 8.20 pm. All are welcome to join this walk or to attend the service.
IPPA Fundraising
The Irish Professional Photographers Association is fundraising for the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland. The money raised in Kilkenny will go to providing isolation facilities for people living with CF in the area should they need hospitalisation. Local participating photographer is Maria of Kilkenny (Oliver’s), High Street. For a donation of €25 to CFAI she will provide a minis portrait session and desk portrait. 100% of fee to charity.
Week of Prayer
A week of continuous prayer will take place in the Methodist Church, William Street, Kilkenny. It begins at 1.00pm on Palm Sunday and run until the morning of Easter Sunday. All are invited to go along and join in prayer.
Co. Kilkenny Horticultural Society
A.G.M., Lecture & Plant Sale
Wednesday, 31st March at 7.30pm sharp
Club House Hotel
The evening will feature a lecture on Summer and Spring Planting by Robert Miller (Horticulturist). There will be refreshments and a raffle on the evening. Free Admission. All are welcome.
Questions people ask
Q. If Jesus was the Son of God how could he be forsaken by God the Father?
A. Since Jesus loved his people to the utmost, he became the victim of sin. In so doing, he suffered the feeling of being forsaken, but in actual fact was not forsaken for one second by the Father ... nobody ever is, even the worst sinner. The sinner might have turned away from God but God does not forsake the sinner. There is always hope. No matter how God-forsaken one might feel, Jesus can be met there because he entered that experience of alienation in Gethsemane and on the cross. Since then it is no longer true that any life is God-forsaken.
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Loughboy Library News
Library Book Club will meet this Thursday April 1st at 10.30am and will be discussing “The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas” amongst other favourites. All readers welcome.
The Parish Team/Finance Committee wish to thank all who promoted and subscribed to our Parish Draw. The total raised from this years draw is €104,000 which goes towards the cost of our Parish Centre.
Holy Week Timetable in St. Patrick’s Parish
Spy Wednesday
Morning Masses 9.30am 10.30am
No Evening Mass in St. Fiacre's
Holy Thursday
Morning Prayer 10.30am St. Fiacre's
Mass of the Lord’s Supper 6.15pm St. Fiacre's (Families, 6.30pm St. Joseph's, Foulkstown, 8pm St. Patrick's.
Good Friday
Morning Prayer 10.30am St. Fiacre's
Stations & Penitential Service 12 noon St. Patrick's.
The Lord’s Passion 3pm St. Fiacre's, 3pm St. Patrick's
Stations of the Cross 7.30pm St. Joseph's
Taize Prayer Around the Cross 8pmm St. Patrick's
Holy Saturday
Morning Prayer 10.30am St. Fiacre's
Easter Vigil 9.00pm St. Patrick's
Easter Sunday
Masses as per normal Sunday
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Fifth Sunday of Lent, 21st March 2010
Pastoral Letter from Pope Benedict XVI to the People of Ireland
Pope Benedict XVI:
says to the victims of abuse and their families: ‘You have suffered grievously and I am truly sorry’
expresses deep dismay at ‘sinful and criminal acts and the way the Church authorities in Ireland dealt with them’
calls on Church leaders in Ireland to continue to cooperate with the civil authorities
says that only decisive action carried out with complete honesty and transparency will restore the respect and good will of the Irish people towards the Church
concludes his Letter with a special Prayer for the Church in Ireland, which he composed himself.
Cardinal Sean Brady welcomes the Pope Benedict’s Pastoral Letter
“Today is a very historic day for the Catholics of Ireland.
Pope Benedict has written a pastoral letter to express his closeness to us at this challenging time. He says ‘with words that come from my heart… I wish to speak to each of you individually and to all of you as brothers and sisters in the Lord’. He speaks of the wounds inflicted on Christ’s body by child sexual abuse and of the sometimes painful remedies needed to bind and heal them. He talks of the need for unity, charity and mutual support in the long-term process of restoration and renewal.
I welcome this letter. I am deeply grateful to the Holy Father for his profound kindness and concern…
My dear people, as Pope Benedict said at his General Audience this week on St. Patrick’s Day, I ask you that you read this letter with an open heart and in a spirit of faith.
The Holy Father concludes his Letter with a special Prayer for the Church in Ireland, which he composed himself. He asks us to make use of this prayer in our families, parishes and communities.
Let us pray that the Holy Father’s Pastoral Letter will be the beginning of a great season of rebirth and hope in the Irish Church, under the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In a spirit of faith – and in conclusion - let us pray together Pope Benedict XVI’s Prayer for the Church in Ireland.”
We have rushed to provide some copies of the Pope’s Pastoral Letter at our parish churches this weekend. Please feel free to take one. The entire Pastoral Letter is available for download at www.ossory,ie, www.patricksparish.com and www.catholicbishops.ie We join with the Pope in encouraging all to obtain a copy and to read it with an open heart and with a spirit of faith.
Lunchtime Theology
Why not join us for a cup of soup and a roll at the Hole in the Wall, 17 High Street, Kilkenny at 1pm this Friday (26th March) for the last session of our lunchtime theology programme?
The subject this week will be: “A Result - The After Life: What can we hope for?” Speaker: Fr. Kieran O’Shea.
Thanks to all who attended the series of talks.
St. Vincent De Paul
The monthly collection for the local conference of the St. Vincent de Paul Society will be taken up during all Masses this weekend. Please give as generously as possible.
Peace in Christ
Thanks to all who supported the recent evening of prayer for St. Patrick’s Parish held at Peace in Christ Retreat House. The evening was well attended and enjoyed by all.
Parish Draw
The final draw in the present series takes place in the Parish Centre on Tuesday evening next at 8.30pm. All are welcome to come along to this event. We would like to say thank you to all our promoters and subscribers.
Parish Website
Encourage all to visit www.patricksparish.net
Pilgrimage to Rome
Why not join the Parish of Mooncoin on a pilgrimage to Rome this summer?
Rome is a wonderful city and as you will see from our itinerary we will have the opportunity to visit all it’s major sights.
July 25th - August 1st 2010. Led by Fr. Eamonn O'Gorman PP, Mooncoin.
All major sights of Rome: Trips to Assisi, Subiaco and Castelgandolfo: Audience/Angelus with the Holy Father. Cost: €1195 (including all taxes). Places are limited so if you are interested in travelling please contact the Mooncoin Parish Office at 051-895123. (Tuesday to Friday 10am-12noon).
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Gerard Dowling, Carrigeen, Mooncoin: Requiem Mass at Carigeen Church at 12 noon on Sunday, (Brother of Gretta Kelly, Parish Team Member). Ailish Meighan, Sligo and Castlecomer Road
Months Mind: Daphne Phelan (Sun 12.30), Joe Lawlor (Fri 6.15)
Anniversaries: Michael O’Sullivan (Sat 6.15), John Walsh (Sun 10.00), Pat Delahunty (Sun 10.30), Pat Mullins (Sun 11.00), Michael McInerney (Sun 12.00), Mary & Cecil Pullan (Mon 6:15), Eamon O’Neill (Tues (10.30), Jane, Henry & Paddy Glynn (Tues 6.15), Des Cullen (Fri 10.30), Ella Cuddihy (Thurs 6:15), Billy Wallace (Sat 9.30), Paddy Larkin, Kathleen Daly, Patrick Rusty Scanlon, May, Bill & Martin Costello, Elizabeth Kavanagh, Mary Hickey, Johanna, Philip & John Larkin, May& William Meehan, Paddy Walsh, John Tynan, Thomas Long, Lou McCarthy, The Stafford Family, The Mulvin Family.
Anniversaries Next Weekend: Paddy Tomney (Sat 6:15), Oliver Kelly (Sat 7.00), Chris Kenny (Sun 9.30), Seamus Brennan (Months Mind Sun 11.00), Margaret Dunne (Sun 12.00).
Latin Rite Mass
Mass for the Feast of the Annunciation 5.00pm Thursday, 25th March.
St. Patrick’s Church at 4.00pm on Palm Sunday.
World Water Day
World Water Day is celebrated on 22nd March 2010. As water becomes scarcer and more precious we wonder how many more will we have.
The human right to water is one of the most widely denied. We must oppose the privatisation of water. Our wastage can affect the global water table. The UN millennium goal is to bring clean water to 300,000 people every day by 2015. The €7.5 billon required is less than that spent on bottled water in Western Europe in 2007. Let us participate.
Pandemic Flu
The Irish Church has received the following advice from the HSE:
“The rates of pandemic flu infection are now very low. All of our health locations are advised to take down leaflets relating to pandemic flu. Religious settings and churches should do this also please. The HSE website on swine flu and flu information telephone help- line will cease operation on April 7th. While infection precautions can be reduced (no need for alternative to sign-of-peace; chalice usage resumed etc.) we continue to recommend good hand hygiene is observed as this is best practice.”
Kilkenny Christian Churches for Haiti
Concert this Sunday 21st March
The four main Christian Churches in Kilkenny have joined in a project to raise funds for the victims of the earthquake in Haiti - Kilkenny Christian Churches for Haiti (KCCH). The KCCH Account is open at St. Canice’s Credit Union until Easter (account No. 60741K).
The highlight of the project is a Concert for Haiti to be held on this Sunday, 21st March, at 7.30 p.m. in St. Canice’s Cathedral. Admission to the concert is free. Those attending will be treated to music of the highest quality from local choirs and musicians, and are asked simply to contribute whatever they can to a collection that will be taken up during the concert in aid of the Concern Haiti Appeal.
Lourdes Invalid Fund
The St. Patrick’s Parish Lourdes Committee still have remaining two free places on this years Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes. If you have a relative, friend or acquaintance who is or has been ill or is going through a difficult time please submit their name to any of the following committee members: Martin Brett, 087 265 1272; Bernie Cantwell 086 333 7188; Eamonn Brennan 087 257 7514; Bill Mullally 086 603 0414; Michael O’Dwyer 087 633 0294; Anne Tierney 086 861 7244; Tommy Mullins 056 776 3427; Mary Gypps 056 776 2721 or leave their name into the Parish Office 056 776 4400. Deadline is 31st March 2010.
Loughboy Library News
Count down to earth hour - takes place at 8.30pm on 27th March this year. To coincide with this event the library is hosting a free “energy drop-in” workshop with Bernadette Moloney, Environment Awareness Officer with Kilkenny County Council on Wednesday, 24th March from 2.00 - 5.00pm. Bernadette will give information and advice on matters ranging from the use of CFL bulbs, reducing your bills, building energy ratings and renewable technologies suitable for a home.
Church Gate Collection
The annual church gate collection in aid of Rehab Kilkenny takes place on Saturday and Sunday 27th & 28th March 2010.
Healing Service at St Fiacre’s
A healing service within Mass will take place at St. Fiacre’s Church on Thursday, 25th March at 7.30pm.
SOS Parish Appeal
The SOS house to house appeal takes place in St Patrick’s Parish during the months of March and April. Leaflets will be dropped through your door during the next while and those involved ask you to be as generous as possible. SOS, Callan Road, Kilkenny provides work and accommodation for adults with special needs.
Family Liturgy
Don’t forget our weekly Family Liturgy at St. Fiacre’s Church. Young people with their parents gather to celebrate the liturgy at 10.30am Mass each Sunday. Practice is after the 6.45pm Mass on Thursdays. All welcome.
Extra Mass for Lent
We have introduced an extra Mass for Lent. You are invited to join with us at St. Fiacre’s Church every weekday evening at 6.15pm.
The All Ireland Talent Show
Well done to parishioner Ross Hennessy and his group Na Fianna on their performance in the RTE 1 All Ireland Talent Show last weekend. A truly wonderful performance.
Read the Pope’s Pastoral Letter on our website.
Pope Benedict XVI:
says to the victims of abuse and their families: ‘You have suffered grievously and I am truly sorry’
expresses deep dismay at ‘sinful and criminal acts and the way the Church authorities in Ireland dealt with them’
calls on Church leaders in Ireland to continue to cooperate with the civil authorities
says that only decisive action carried out with complete honesty and transparency will restore the respect and good will of the Irish people towards the Church
concludes his Letter with a special Prayer for the Church in Ireland, which he composed himself.
Cardinal Sean Brady welcomes the Pope Benedict’s Pastoral Letter
“Today is a very historic day for the Catholics of Ireland.
Pope Benedict has written a pastoral letter to express his closeness to us at this challenging time. He says ‘with words that come from my heart… I wish to speak to each of you individually and to all of you as brothers and sisters in the Lord’. He speaks of the wounds inflicted on Christ’s body by child sexual abuse and of the sometimes painful remedies needed to bind and heal them. He talks of the need for unity, charity and mutual support in the long-term process of restoration and renewal.
I welcome this letter. I am deeply grateful to the Holy Father for his profound kindness and concern…
My dear people, as Pope Benedict said at his General Audience this week on St. Patrick’s Day, I ask you that you read this letter with an open heart and in a spirit of faith.
The Holy Father concludes his Letter with a special Prayer for the Church in Ireland, which he composed himself. He asks us to make use of this prayer in our families, parishes and communities.
Let us pray that the Holy Father’s Pastoral Letter will be the beginning of a great season of rebirth and hope in the Irish Church, under the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In a spirit of faith – and in conclusion - let us pray together Pope Benedict XVI’s Prayer for the Church in Ireland.”
We have rushed to provide some copies of the Pope’s Pastoral Letter at our parish churches this weekend. Please feel free to take one. The entire Pastoral Letter is available for download at www.ossory,ie, www.patricksparish.com and www.catholicbishops.ie We join with the Pope in encouraging all to obtain a copy and to read it with an open heart and with a spirit of faith.
Lunchtime Theology
Why not join us for a cup of soup and a roll at the Hole in the Wall, 17 High Street, Kilkenny at 1pm this Friday (26th March) for the last session of our lunchtime theology programme?
The subject this week will be: “A Result - The After Life: What can we hope for?” Speaker: Fr. Kieran O’Shea.
Thanks to all who attended the series of talks.
St. Vincent De Paul
The monthly collection for the local conference of the St. Vincent de Paul Society will be taken up during all Masses this weekend. Please give as generously as possible.
Peace in Christ
Thanks to all who supported the recent evening of prayer for St. Patrick’s Parish held at Peace in Christ Retreat House. The evening was well attended and enjoyed by all.
Parish Draw
The final draw in the present series takes place in the Parish Centre on Tuesday evening next at 8.30pm. All are welcome to come along to this event. We would like to say thank you to all our promoters and subscribers.
Parish Website
Encourage all to visit www.patricksparish.net
Pilgrimage to Rome
Why not join the Parish of Mooncoin on a pilgrimage to Rome this summer?
Rome is a wonderful city and as you will see from our itinerary we will have the opportunity to visit all it’s major sights.
July 25th - August 1st 2010. Led by Fr. Eamonn O'Gorman PP, Mooncoin.
All major sights of Rome: Trips to Assisi, Subiaco and Castelgandolfo: Audience/Angelus with the Holy Father. Cost: €1195 (including all taxes). Places are limited so if you are interested in travelling please contact the Mooncoin Parish Office at 051-895123. (Tuesday to Friday 10am-12noon).
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Gerard Dowling, Carrigeen, Mooncoin: Requiem Mass at Carigeen Church at 12 noon on Sunday, (Brother of Gretta Kelly, Parish Team Member). Ailish Meighan, Sligo and Castlecomer Road
Months Mind: Daphne Phelan (Sun 12.30), Joe Lawlor (Fri 6.15)
Anniversaries: Michael O’Sullivan (Sat 6.15), John Walsh (Sun 10.00), Pat Delahunty (Sun 10.30), Pat Mullins (Sun 11.00), Michael McInerney (Sun 12.00), Mary & Cecil Pullan (Mon 6:15), Eamon O’Neill (Tues (10.30), Jane, Henry & Paddy Glynn (Tues 6.15), Des Cullen (Fri 10.30), Ella Cuddihy (Thurs 6:15), Billy Wallace (Sat 9.30), Paddy Larkin, Kathleen Daly, Patrick Rusty Scanlon, May, Bill & Martin Costello, Elizabeth Kavanagh, Mary Hickey, Johanna, Philip & John Larkin, May& William Meehan, Paddy Walsh, John Tynan, Thomas Long, Lou McCarthy, The Stafford Family, The Mulvin Family.
Anniversaries Next Weekend: Paddy Tomney (Sat 6:15), Oliver Kelly (Sat 7.00), Chris Kenny (Sun 9.30), Seamus Brennan (Months Mind Sun 11.00), Margaret Dunne (Sun 12.00).
Latin Rite Mass
Mass for the Feast of the Annunciation 5.00pm Thursday, 25th March.
St. Patrick’s Church at 4.00pm on Palm Sunday.
World Water Day
World Water Day is celebrated on 22nd March 2010. As water becomes scarcer and more precious we wonder how many more will we have.
The human right to water is one of the most widely denied. We must oppose the privatisation of water. Our wastage can affect the global water table. The UN millennium goal is to bring clean water to 300,000 people every day by 2015. The €7.5 billon required is less than that spent on bottled water in Western Europe in 2007. Let us participate.
Pandemic Flu
The Irish Church has received the following advice from the HSE:
“The rates of pandemic flu infection are now very low. All of our health locations are advised to take down leaflets relating to pandemic flu. Religious settings and churches should do this also please. The HSE website on swine flu and flu information telephone help- line will cease operation on April 7th. While infection precautions can be reduced (no need for alternative to sign-of-peace; chalice usage resumed etc.) we continue to recommend good hand hygiene is observed as this is best practice.”
Kilkenny Christian Churches for Haiti
Concert this Sunday 21st March
The four main Christian Churches in Kilkenny have joined in a project to raise funds for the victims of the earthquake in Haiti - Kilkenny Christian Churches for Haiti (KCCH). The KCCH Account is open at St. Canice’s Credit Union until Easter (account No. 60741K).
The highlight of the project is a Concert for Haiti to be held on this Sunday, 21st March, at 7.30 p.m. in St. Canice’s Cathedral. Admission to the concert is free. Those attending will be treated to music of the highest quality from local choirs and musicians, and are asked simply to contribute whatever they can to a collection that will be taken up during the concert in aid of the Concern Haiti Appeal.
Lourdes Invalid Fund
The St. Patrick’s Parish Lourdes Committee still have remaining two free places on this years Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes. If you have a relative, friend or acquaintance who is or has been ill or is going through a difficult time please submit their name to any of the following committee members: Martin Brett, 087 265 1272; Bernie Cantwell 086 333 7188; Eamonn Brennan 087 257 7514; Bill Mullally 086 603 0414; Michael O’Dwyer 087 633 0294; Anne Tierney 086 861 7244; Tommy Mullins 056 776 3427; Mary Gypps 056 776 2721 or leave their name into the Parish Office 056 776 4400. Deadline is 31st March 2010.
Loughboy Library News
Count down to earth hour - takes place at 8.30pm on 27th March this year. To coincide with this event the library is hosting a free “energy drop-in” workshop with Bernadette Moloney, Environment Awareness Officer with Kilkenny County Council on Wednesday, 24th March from 2.00 - 5.00pm. Bernadette will give information and advice on matters ranging from the use of CFL bulbs, reducing your bills, building energy ratings and renewable technologies suitable for a home.
Church Gate Collection
The annual church gate collection in aid of Rehab Kilkenny takes place on Saturday and Sunday 27th & 28th March 2010.
Healing Service at St Fiacre’s
A healing service within Mass will take place at St. Fiacre’s Church on Thursday, 25th March at 7.30pm.
SOS Parish Appeal
The SOS house to house appeal takes place in St Patrick’s Parish during the months of March and April. Leaflets will be dropped through your door during the next while and those involved ask you to be as generous as possible. SOS, Callan Road, Kilkenny provides work and accommodation for adults with special needs.
Family Liturgy
Don’t forget our weekly Family Liturgy at St. Fiacre’s Church. Young people with their parents gather to celebrate the liturgy at 10.30am Mass each Sunday. Practice is after the 6.45pm Mass on Thursdays. All welcome.
Extra Mass for Lent
We have introduced an extra Mass for Lent. You are invited to join with us at St. Fiacre’s Church every weekday evening at 6.15pm.
The All Ireland Talent Show
Well done to parishioner Ross Hennessy and his group Na Fianna on their performance in the RTE 1 All Ireland Talent Show last weekend. A truly wonderful performance.
Read the Pope’s Pastoral Letter on our website.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Fourth Sunday of Lent, 14th March 2009
Our National Feast
St Patrick’s Day is a special day for Irish people living at home and abroad. In 2010 we celebrate our national saint’s day in the midst of a deep economic recession which has resulted in unemployment and emigration for many individuals and families in Ireland.
The plight of Patrick, himself a migrant, has been faced by many Irish people who have struggled to live and integrate into new cultures. Patrick was called to serve and bring God to a people far from his homeland. Our national Saint was a pioneer in an inhospitable climate. The Church today can learn much from his commitment and zeal in spreading the Good News. In the words of St Patrick: “May it never befall me to be separated by my God from his people whom he has won in this most remote land. I pray God that he gives me perseverance, and that he will deign that I should be a faithful witness for his sake right up to the time of my passing” (The Confession of St Patrick).
At their meeting in Maynooth earlier this week the Irish bishops expressed concern regarding migrant workers who, in common with many Irish people, are losing their employment at this time of recession. They noted that despite difficulties encountered as a result of work shortages, a significant number of migrants are choosing to remain in Ireland... It is essential, even in a time of decreased resources, that the rights of migrants in relation to work, access to services and entitlement to social benefits are fully respected.
Noting the significant decrease in numbers of people coming to seek asylum in this country, the bishops discussed Ireland’s international obligation to examine in a fair, prompt and transparent manner the application of those who come seeking a place of refuge. The bishops raised concern regarding the numbers of people, including many families, who spend years in ‘Direct Provision’ centres around the country awaiting a decision on their asylum application. Not allowed to take up employment and, with increasingly restricted access to social welfare benefits, many parents face serious challenges in raising their children.
From Statement issued by the Irish Catholic Bishops
Patrick’s Day Arrangements
Masses on Tuesday evening at 6.15 (St. Fiacre’s) and 7.00 (St. Patrick’s). Masses on Wednesday at 9.30am, 11.00am and 12.30pm (St. Patrick’s), 10.00am (Foulkstown) and 10.30am and 12 noon (St. Fiacre’s). There will be no evening Mass on Wednesday.
St. Patrick’s Day Readers
6.15pm Mairead Ni Mhuineog, 7.00pm Frank McKenna, 9.30am Michael Lydon, 10.00am Mags McQuillan, 11.00am Eileen Ryan, 12.00noon Marie Magnier, 12.30pm Niamh Daly
Adoration
There will be an hour of Adoration and prayer in the Friary Church on Sunday March 14th from 3 - 4pm.
Many Thanks
The organisers of the recent collection for the School of the Holy Spirit wish to thank those who contributed so generously.
Lunchtime Theology
Lent allows us to follow and reflect on the most significant days in the life of Jesus. Maybe it also offers us an opportune time to reflect on what is significant in our own lives or more specifically in our lives of faith. This Lent we hope to explore our faith journey as Christians. Why not join, this Friday 19th March, in an informal and relaxed manner, for 45 minutes over a cup of soup and a sandwich, to reflect on some of the stages of our lives of faith. Location: The Hole in the Wall, 17 High Street Kilkenny - at 1pm. Topic: An Achievement - The Saintly Life: An ideal beyond our grasp? Speaker: Fr. Dan Bollard.
Choral Concert
Tuesday 16th March at 7.30pm. St. Kieran’s College Chapel, College Road. Featuring Pittsburgh State University College Choir, The Unity Singers, Kilkenny Male Voice Choir, St. Kieran’s College Pupils. Donation to include light refreshments €15. In aid of the restoration of St. Kieran’s College Chapel Pipe Organ.
Pray for Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Liam Anthony Phelan, Dean’s Court, Andy Henderson, Mayfield, Patrick Ryan, Circular Road.
Anniversaries: Eamon O’Toole (Sat 6.15), May & Michael Brannigan (Sat 7.00), Thomas Donnelly (Sun 9.30), Bridie Carroll (Sun 10.00), Frank English (Sun 10.30), Dr. W. J. Phelan, Margaret Phelan, Moya Bligh (Sun 11.00), John Dooley (Sun 12.00), Sue Daly (Sun 12.30), Phelim McConville (Tues 6.15), Sr. Genevieve Brennan (Tues 7.00), Brigid Eardly (Wed 10.00), Ellen & Carmel Hayes (Wed 10.30), Gerry Coyne (Wed 12.00), Patrick Morris (Thurs 9.30), Margaret Tyrell (Thurs 10.30), Michael & Christina McGrath (Fri 10.30), Billy Connick, Bridget Slattery, Rose Cantwell, Breda Butler, Brigid Brennan, Adrian Bligh, Lou McCarthy, Patrick Brennan,
Ella Cuddihy.
Intentions for next weekend: Daphne Phelan (Sun 12.30, Months Mind) Michael O’Sullivan (Sat 6.15), John Walsh (Sun 10.00), Pat Delahunty (Sun 10.30), Pat Mullins (Sun 11.00), Michael McInerney (Sun 12.00)
Prayer and Reflection
An Evening of Prayer and Reflection for Readers and Eucharistic Ministers: Conscious that so many people volunteer to work as Readers and Eucharistic ministers throughout the diocese, the Ossory Adult Faith Development Committee have 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, their contribution to our parish community. We would like to invite, where possible, 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 let us know so that we may pass on approximate numbers. Thank you.
United Christian Concert for Haiti
The four main Christian Churches in Kilkenny have joined together in a fund raising project for Concern’s appeal for the earthquake victims in Haiti. A United Christian Concert will take place in St. Canice’s Cathedral on Sunday 21st March at 7.30 p.m. Participants include the joint choirs of St Canice’s and St Mary’s Cathedrals; Kilkenny College Choir; Presentation Kilkenny Choir; Gaelscoil Osrai; St. Canice’s Primary School and Malcolm Proud. There will also be reflections and readings from the four main Christian Churches in Kilkenny. Admission: Free. A collection will be taken up, with all proceeds going to the KCCH/ Concern Haiti Appeal. A representative of Concern will be present to give a short talk on the situation in Haiti and the plans for the future. The KCCH account will remain open at St. Canice’s Credit Union until Easter. Any person or group wishing to contribute to the fund may wish to call to the Credit Union or call the contact person for the project who is Paul McKiernan, telephone 087 9043071.
English Literature
A 10 week course. Exploring drama and short fiction. Kilkenny Campus, NUI Maynooth. Tuesdays 7pm—9pm. 13th April 2010 - 15th June 2010. Cost €150. Closing date for applications: 26th March 2010. For further information contact: Lisa Condon at 056 777 5910 / 087 2630 999.
Email: kilkenny.campus@nuim.ie. Website thttp://.kilkenny.nuim.ie
Computer Course
Computer classes will resume again in the Parish Centre. Anyone interested should contact the Parish Office.
St. Patrick’s on the Web
Tell your relatives and friends living abroad
www.patricksparish.com
We wish all mothers a Happy Mother’s Day
“No matter how old a mother is, she watches her middle-aged children for signs of improvement.”
Florida Scott-Maxwell
“Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever.”
Unknown
Energy Awareness Week
March 22nd - 26th: Loughboy library is hosting a free drop-in energy workshop on Wednesday March 24th from 2-5pm. Bernadette Moloney, Environmental Awareness Office with Kilkenny County Council will give information on SEI grants and general tips on energy awareness and conservation. No need to book - just drop in and share your queries.
The All Ireland Talent Show
Don’t forget to tune in to the All Ireland Talent Show on RTE1 on this Sunday evening at 6.30pm and vote for parishioner Ross Hennessy and his group, Na Fianna.
St. Patrick’s Parish Draw
The final draw in the present series will take place on Tuesday 23rd March, in our Parish Centre at 8.30pm. The draw is held in public and everyone is invited to attend.
The draw has been a significant source of funding for our Parish Centre and, since 2004, has raised €560,000 towards its cost. In the same period, €118,000 has been returned to the local community in prize money. Following this month’s draw a further €2000 in prize money will be added to this figure and the balance will go to the Centre.
This is an opportune time to thank all our promoters and subscribers for their loyalty, hard work and generosity over the lifetime of this draw and indeed previous series of draws going back to the late 1980’s. During this period St. Fiacre’s Church was built (1992), St. Joseph’s Church in Foulkstown was rebuilt (1999) and now, St. Patrick’s Parish Centre and homes for the elderly have been completed in Loughboy. Our Parish draw has been a significant fund raiser for each of these projects and , to a large extent, the same people have continued to support the draw as promoters and subscribers. We thank all of you for your support over such an extended period of time and we remember with sadness the promoters and subscribers who are gone to their eternal reward.
The breakdown for the last five draws is as follows:
2004 2005/06 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 (to date)
€127,000 €95,000 €115,000 €119,000 €104,000
In addition we paid out €24,000 prize money in each draw.
There is still an outstanding debt on our Parish Centre but in these times of economic hardship for many families we feel it is right to suspend the draw for the present. We will keep the situation under review and, as always, we depend on your continued support for our Parish through the envelope collection, tax back scheme, bag pack and some other events during the year.
St Patrick’s Day is a special day for Irish people living at home and abroad. In 2010 we celebrate our national saint’s day in the midst of a deep economic recession which has resulted in unemployment and emigration for many individuals and families in Ireland.
The plight of Patrick, himself a migrant, has been faced by many Irish people who have struggled to live and integrate into new cultures. Patrick was called to serve and bring God to a people far from his homeland. Our national Saint was a pioneer in an inhospitable climate. The Church today can learn much from his commitment and zeal in spreading the Good News. In the words of St Patrick: “May it never befall me to be separated by my God from his people whom he has won in this most remote land. I pray God that he gives me perseverance, and that he will deign that I should be a faithful witness for his sake right up to the time of my passing” (The Confession of St Patrick).
At their meeting in Maynooth earlier this week the Irish bishops expressed concern regarding migrant workers who, in common with many Irish people, are losing their employment at this time of recession. They noted that despite difficulties encountered as a result of work shortages, a significant number of migrants are choosing to remain in Ireland... It is essential, even in a time of decreased resources, that the rights of migrants in relation to work, access to services and entitlement to social benefits are fully respected.
Noting the significant decrease in numbers of people coming to seek asylum in this country, the bishops discussed Ireland’s international obligation to examine in a fair, prompt and transparent manner the application of those who come seeking a place of refuge. The bishops raised concern regarding the numbers of people, including many families, who spend years in ‘Direct Provision’ centres around the country awaiting a decision on their asylum application. Not allowed to take up employment and, with increasingly restricted access to social welfare benefits, many parents face serious challenges in raising their children.
From Statement issued by the Irish Catholic Bishops
Patrick’s Day Arrangements
Masses on Tuesday evening at 6.15 (St. Fiacre’s) and 7.00 (St. Patrick’s). Masses on Wednesday at 9.30am, 11.00am and 12.30pm (St. Patrick’s), 10.00am (Foulkstown) and 10.30am and 12 noon (St. Fiacre’s). There will be no evening Mass on Wednesday.
St. Patrick’s Day Readers
6.15pm Mairead Ni Mhuineog, 7.00pm Frank McKenna, 9.30am Michael Lydon, 10.00am Mags McQuillan, 11.00am Eileen Ryan, 12.00noon Marie Magnier, 12.30pm Niamh Daly
Adoration
There will be an hour of Adoration and prayer in the Friary Church on Sunday March 14th from 3 - 4pm.
Many Thanks
The organisers of the recent collection for the School of the Holy Spirit wish to thank those who contributed so generously.
Lunchtime Theology
Lent allows us to follow and reflect on the most significant days in the life of Jesus. Maybe it also offers us an opportune time to reflect on what is significant in our own lives or more specifically in our lives of faith. This Lent we hope to explore our faith journey as Christians. Why not join, this Friday 19th March, in an informal and relaxed manner, for 45 minutes over a cup of soup and a sandwich, to reflect on some of the stages of our lives of faith. Location: The Hole in the Wall, 17 High Street Kilkenny - at 1pm. Topic: An Achievement - The Saintly Life: An ideal beyond our grasp? Speaker: Fr. Dan Bollard.
Choral Concert
Tuesday 16th March at 7.30pm. St. Kieran’s College Chapel, College Road. Featuring Pittsburgh State University College Choir, The Unity Singers, Kilkenny Male Voice Choir, St. Kieran’s College Pupils. Donation to include light refreshments €15. In aid of the restoration of St. Kieran’s College Chapel Pipe Organ.
Pray for Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Liam Anthony Phelan, Dean’s Court, Andy Henderson, Mayfield, Patrick Ryan, Circular Road.
Anniversaries: Eamon O’Toole (Sat 6.15), May & Michael Brannigan (Sat 7.00), Thomas Donnelly (Sun 9.30), Bridie Carroll (Sun 10.00), Frank English (Sun 10.30), Dr. W. J. Phelan, Margaret Phelan, Moya Bligh (Sun 11.00), John Dooley (Sun 12.00), Sue Daly (Sun 12.30), Phelim McConville (Tues 6.15), Sr. Genevieve Brennan (Tues 7.00), Brigid Eardly (Wed 10.00), Ellen & Carmel Hayes (Wed 10.30), Gerry Coyne (Wed 12.00), Patrick Morris (Thurs 9.30), Margaret Tyrell (Thurs 10.30), Michael & Christina McGrath (Fri 10.30), Billy Connick, Bridget Slattery, Rose Cantwell, Breda Butler, Brigid Brennan, Adrian Bligh, Lou McCarthy, Patrick Brennan,
Ella Cuddihy.
Intentions for next weekend: Daphne Phelan (Sun 12.30, Months Mind) Michael O’Sullivan (Sat 6.15), John Walsh (Sun 10.00), Pat Delahunty (Sun 10.30), Pat Mullins (Sun 11.00), Michael McInerney (Sun 12.00)
Prayer and Reflection
An Evening of Prayer and Reflection for Readers and Eucharistic Ministers: Conscious that so many people volunteer to work as Readers and Eucharistic ministers throughout the diocese, the Ossory Adult Faith Development Committee have 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, their contribution to our parish community. We would like to invite, where possible, 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 let us know so that we may pass on approximate numbers. Thank you.
United Christian Concert for Haiti
The four main Christian Churches in Kilkenny have joined together in a fund raising project for Concern’s appeal for the earthquake victims in Haiti. A United Christian Concert will take place in St. Canice’s Cathedral on Sunday 21st March at 7.30 p.m. Participants include the joint choirs of St Canice’s and St Mary’s Cathedrals; Kilkenny College Choir; Presentation Kilkenny Choir; Gaelscoil Osrai; St. Canice’s Primary School and Malcolm Proud. There will also be reflections and readings from the four main Christian Churches in Kilkenny. Admission: Free. A collection will be taken up, with all proceeds going to the KCCH/ Concern Haiti Appeal. A representative of Concern will be present to give a short talk on the situation in Haiti and the plans for the future. The KCCH account will remain open at St. Canice’s Credit Union until Easter. Any person or group wishing to contribute to the fund may wish to call to the Credit Union or call the contact person for the project who is Paul McKiernan, telephone 087 9043071.
English Literature
A 10 week course. Exploring drama and short fiction. Kilkenny Campus, NUI Maynooth. Tuesdays 7pm—9pm. 13th April 2010 - 15th June 2010. Cost €150. Closing date for applications: 26th March 2010. For further information contact: Lisa Condon at 056 777 5910 / 087 2630 999.
Email: kilkenny.campus@nuim.ie. Website thttp://.kilkenny.nuim.ie
Computer Course
Computer classes will resume again in the Parish Centre. Anyone interested should contact the Parish Office.
St. Patrick’s on the Web
Tell your relatives and friends living abroad
www.patricksparish.com
We wish all mothers a Happy Mother’s Day
“No matter how old a mother is, she watches her middle-aged children for signs of improvement.”
Florida Scott-Maxwell
“Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever.”
Unknown
Energy Awareness Week
March 22nd - 26th: Loughboy library is hosting a free drop-in energy workshop on Wednesday March 24th from 2-5pm. Bernadette Moloney, Environmental Awareness Office with Kilkenny County Council will give information on SEI grants and general tips on energy awareness and conservation. No need to book - just drop in and share your queries.
The All Ireland Talent Show
Don’t forget to tune in to the All Ireland Talent Show on RTE1 on this Sunday evening at 6.30pm and vote for parishioner Ross Hennessy and his group, Na Fianna.
St. Patrick’s Parish Draw
The final draw in the present series will take place on Tuesday 23rd March, in our Parish Centre at 8.30pm. The draw is held in public and everyone is invited to attend.
The draw has been a significant source of funding for our Parish Centre and, since 2004, has raised €560,000 towards its cost. In the same period, €118,000 has been returned to the local community in prize money. Following this month’s draw a further €2000 in prize money will be added to this figure and the balance will go to the Centre.
This is an opportune time to thank all our promoters and subscribers for their loyalty, hard work and generosity over the lifetime of this draw and indeed previous series of draws going back to the late 1980’s. During this period St. Fiacre’s Church was built (1992), St. Joseph’s Church in Foulkstown was rebuilt (1999) and now, St. Patrick’s Parish Centre and homes for the elderly have been completed in Loughboy. Our Parish draw has been a significant fund raiser for each of these projects and , to a large extent, the same people have continued to support the draw as promoters and subscribers. We thank all of you for your support over such an extended period of time and we remember with sadness the promoters and subscribers who are gone to their eternal reward.
The breakdown for the last five draws is as follows:
2004 2005/06 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 (to date)
€127,000 €95,000 €115,000 €119,000 €104,000
In addition we paid out €24,000 prize money in each draw.
There is still an outstanding debt on our Parish Centre but in these times of economic hardship for many families we feel it is right to suspend the draw for the present. We will keep the situation under review and, as always, we depend on your continued support for our Parish through the envelope collection, tax back scheme, bag pack and some other events during the year.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Third Sunday of Lent, 7th March 2010
Googling is good for you
A google a day keeps the doctor away, researchers have found. Surfing the net boosts the brain. And its effects last long after the surfing stops. One theory holds that surfing stretches the brain by making it perform multiple tasks simultaneously. Fine! But let’s not forget what drives the search in the first place. And I don’t mean the hard drive. I mean curiosity. Were this lacking there would be no activity. Curiosity stimulates the search. It’s what puts Moses in touch with God in our First Reading today. He sees something that arouses his curiosity: a burning bush that’s not consumed. His curiosity gets the better of him and because it does we discover two very important things: about God; he cares for us; about human beings; we’re holy. God tells Moses to come no closer and to take off his sandals because he’s on holy ground – God’s turf. I used to think that he was letting Moses know how unworthy he was to approach him. How wrong I was! God is saying the exact opposite. Not being gods we must maintain some distance from him, yet nothing should come between us, not even a pair of sandals. Only what comes directly from the hand of God is worthy to be near him – hence the naked sole. Moses is a murderer. Yet God calls him. It’s easy to see God through goodness. But can we see him when evil blocks the view? If not, then let’s remember a murderer and a burning bush. (Fr Tom Cahill SVD)
Parish Evening at Peace in Christ
The annual evening of prayer for our parish will be held at Peace in Christ Retreat House, Sion Road on this Tuesday evening. The evening begins at 8.00pm and ends at about 10.00pm. Please come and participate in an evening in preparation for Easter.
First Holy Communion
We welcome First Holy Communion candidates and their families to Masses this weekend. Those from Gaelscoil Osrai and Kilkenny School Project will attend 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s while St. Patrick’s De La Salle and St. John of God pupils will attend 11.00am Mass at St. Patrick’s Church.
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Ann Lalor, Friary Street (Retired Ossory Diocesan Secretary). Tommy McCarthy, Riverview. Sybil Miller, England. Julia Walsh (nee West), Ossory Park and England.
Anniversaries: Lulu Lynch (Sat 6.15), Vincent Morrissey (Sat 7.00), Brendan Reid (Sun 9.30), Michael (Mick) Brophy (Sun 10.00), Evelyn Herlihy & Christian Maher, (Sun 11.00), Bobby Brannigan (Sun 12.30), Olive Malone (Fri 6.15), Frank O’Brien, Olive, Kathleen & Owen Deegan, William Holland, Kathleen White, Patrick Leahy.
Intentions for next weekend: Eamonn O’Toole (Sat 6.15), May & Michael Brannigan (Sat 7.00), Thomas Donnelly (Sun 9.30), Bridie Carroll (Sun 10.00), Frank English (Sun 10.30), Dr. W. J. Phelan & Margaret Phelan & Moya Bligh (Sun 11.00), John Dooley (Sun 12.00), Sue Daly (Sun 12.30).
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the society will take place on Friday, 12th March in the Parish Centre after the 10.30 Mass in St. Fiacre’s Church. All are welcome.
Rosary
The monthly rosary on the First Sunday in James Green at the statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny continues this Sunday, 7th March at 3pm. All are welcome.
Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes
The Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes takes place from 22nd May to 27th May. If you know of any parishioner who might benefit from making the pilgrimage, but might need financial assistance, please contact any member of St. Patrick’s Lourdes Fund Committee: Martin Brett, 087 265 1272, Bernie Cantwell 086 333 7188, Eamonn Brennan 087 257 7514, Bill Mulally 086 603 0414, Michael O’Dwyer 087 633 0294, Anne Tierney 086 861 7244, Tommy Mullins 776 3427, Mary Gypps 056 776 2721 or email: stpatricksparish@ossory.ie as soon as possible.
Charitable Donations to Parish
We recently sent CHY2 forms to those recorded as contributing €250 or more to the parish during 2009. We appeal to those who received such forms to complete them as indicated and return them to the parish office as soon as possible. This will enable us to make an early submission to the Revenue Commissioners to recover for the benefit of the parish the tax you paid on your contributions.
Please do not hesitate to contact the Parish Office (776 4400) if you feel you qualify and did not receive a form.
Healing Service at St Fiacre’s
A healing service takes place at St. Fiacre’s Church on Thursday, 11th March at 8.00pm. Please note the change of time as the church will be in use for a First Penance Service from 7.00pm that evening. Healing Mass on 25th March at 7.30pm.
Feast of St. John of God
Monday, 8th March is the Feast of St. John of God, the patron of the congregation of religious of the same name in our parish. The Sisters of St. John of God were founded in Wexford in October 1871 and arrived in Kilkenny in 1886. “We are an international Congregation of women religious, who endeavour to live a life of prayer and commitment to Gospel values. We share a common vision to bring God’s healing love to everyone, wherever we are.
Each of us responded in faith to a call to join this particular Congregation and to be faithful to the dream that inspired our Founders. Through our various ministries in many parts of the world, we aim to give concrete expression to God’s compassionate care for all people and the whole of creation.” (www.ssjg.org)
Priests and people of the parish join in congratulating the sisters and their collaborators and wish them well on their feast day.
St. Joseph’s Novena
The annual novena to St. Joseph begins at St. Joseph’s, Mill Hill Missionaries, Waterford Road on Thursday, 11th March. Mass and prayers each evening at 8.00pm. All welcome.
Volunteer Help Needed
Our parish will shortly need some help with the distribution of the parish envelope packs. Please contact the parish office if you are willing to help drop the boxes into a few dozen homes in your area. Some areas are well covered; however, we could do with help in many areas - especially the newer estates and where former distributors have retired or died.
Concert in the Castle
On Friday, 12th of March at 8pm the Brass Quintet "Quintessenz" from the Black Forest will play a concert in aid of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin in the Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle. On the night they will be preceded by St. Patrick's Brass and Reed Concert Band. Your support will be greatly appreciated and a great night’s entertainment is assured. Tickets at €10 are available from The Book Centre, High Street or on the door. For further information contact 087 212 0201.
SOS Parish Appeal
The SOS house to house appeal takes place in St Patrick’s Parish during the months of March and April. Leaflets will be dropped through your door during the next while and those involved ask you to be as generous as possible. SOS, Callan Road, Kilkenny provides work and accommodation for adults with special needs.
Thomastown Lenten Programme
There will be an Evening of Prayer through Song with David Parkes, international singer, in association with Marian Pilgrimages at the Parish Church, Thomastown on Thursday 11th March beginning at 7.30pm.
Thank You from IHCPT
Sincere thanks to all who supported the IHCPT concert at St. Fiacre’s Church on last Wednesday evening. Thanks especially to the artistes who gave their talents and time so freely. Almost €1,400 was raised to help send young people with special needs to Lourdes this Easter. We will remember you at the grotto.
Trocaire
Trócaire would like to thank everyone for their huge generosity to the Haiti appeal. Donations from the Irish public have surpassed all expectations: €3,486,815 (NI: Stg £979,643). Thanks to this support Trócaire will help thousands of survivors to rebuild their lives in Haiti.
However, this Lent Trócaire reminds us that, while earthquakes and natural disasters attract global attention, there are millions of people around the world who will go to bed hungry tonight. During Lent over 600,000 children will die from hunger and diseases caused by hunger. The total number of people that were killed by the recent earthquake in Haiti, is less than half that number. This hunger crisis is taking place away from the TV cameras in small, rural villages all over the developing world. Please support Trócaire’s Lenten campaign in whatever way you can, to help families overcome hunger.
Kilkenny City Harriers
Our Junior Ladies team has been selected to represent Ireland at the European Junior Club Champions Cup in Portugal in September. The cost involved in kitting out and bringing 20 plus members to Portugal is quite significant. As part of our fund raising programme we have organised a Fun Run “St. Patrick’s Day Dash” 5K for adults, 2K for juveniles with registration at The Watershed from 10am on St Patrick’s morning. "The Dash" starts at 11.00am. Please support this cause.
Family Liturgy
Don’t forget our weekly Family Liturgy at St. Fiacre’s Church. Young people with their parents gather to celebrate the liturgy at 10.30am Mass each Sunday. Practice is after the 6.45pm on Thursdays. All welcome.
Extra Mass for Lent
We have introduced an extra Mass for Lent. You are invited to join with us at St. Fiacre’s Church every weekday evening at 6.15pm.
Kilkenny Flower Club
The next meeting of Kilkenny Flower Club in Butler House on Thursday, 11th March at 8.00pm is a work night. That means we will participate in making either an arrangement called “Spring Contrast” or “Parallel Texture” For details of requirements please go to www.kilkennyflowerclub.wordpress.com or telephone 086 807 2040. All welcome.
Judo for Haiti
A judo demonstration to raise funds for Haiti will take place in McDonagh Junction on Saturday, 13th March beginning at 12.30pm and ending at 3pm. All monies raised will go to the Haven Fund who are working in Haiti.
Loughboy Library
Interested in trying out the Nintendo Wii? Loughboy Library will be holding a series of training classes for the over 55’s. Classes are free and you don’t need to own a Wii to take part. For more details contact 056 7794176.
Book Club: meets on Thursday April 1st at 10.30am. Book for this month is ‘The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas’. Copies available at the library. All welcome.
A google a day keeps the doctor away, researchers have found. Surfing the net boosts the brain. And its effects last long after the surfing stops. One theory holds that surfing stretches the brain by making it perform multiple tasks simultaneously. Fine! But let’s not forget what drives the search in the first place. And I don’t mean the hard drive. I mean curiosity. Were this lacking there would be no activity. Curiosity stimulates the search. It’s what puts Moses in touch with God in our First Reading today. He sees something that arouses his curiosity: a burning bush that’s not consumed. His curiosity gets the better of him and because it does we discover two very important things: about God; he cares for us; about human beings; we’re holy. God tells Moses to come no closer and to take off his sandals because he’s on holy ground – God’s turf. I used to think that he was letting Moses know how unworthy he was to approach him. How wrong I was! God is saying the exact opposite. Not being gods we must maintain some distance from him, yet nothing should come between us, not even a pair of sandals. Only what comes directly from the hand of God is worthy to be near him – hence the naked sole. Moses is a murderer. Yet God calls him. It’s easy to see God through goodness. But can we see him when evil blocks the view? If not, then let’s remember a murderer and a burning bush. (Fr Tom Cahill SVD)
Parish Evening at Peace in Christ
The annual evening of prayer for our parish will be held at Peace in Christ Retreat House, Sion Road on this Tuesday evening. The evening begins at 8.00pm and ends at about 10.00pm. Please come and participate in an evening in preparation for Easter.
First Holy Communion
We welcome First Holy Communion candidates and their families to Masses this weekend. Those from Gaelscoil Osrai and Kilkenny School Project will attend 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s while St. Patrick’s De La Salle and St. John of God pupils will attend 11.00am Mass at St. Patrick’s Church.
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Ann Lalor, Friary Street (Retired Ossory Diocesan Secretary). Tommy McCarthy, Riverview. Sybil Miller, England. Julia Walsh (nee West), Ossory Park and England.
Anniversaries: Lulu Lynch (Sat 6.15), Vincent Morrissey (Sat 7.00), Brendan Reid (Sun 9.30), Michael (Mick) Brophy (Sun 10.00), Evelyn Herlihy & Christian Maher, (Sun 11.00), Bobby Brannigan (Sun 12.30), Olive Malone (Fri 6.15), Frank O’Brien, Olive, Kathleen & Owen Deegan, William Holland, Kathleen White, Patrick Leahy.
Intentions for next weekend: Eamonn O’Toole (Sat 6.15), May & Michael Brannigan (Sat 7.00), Thomas Donnelly (Sun 9.30), Bridie Carroll (Sun 10.00), Frank English (Sun 10.30), Dr. W. J. Phelan & Margaret Phelan & Moya Bligh (Sun 11.00), John Dooley (Sun 12.00), Sue Daly (Sun 12.30).
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the society will take place on Friday, 12th March in the Parish Centre after the 10.30 Mass in St. Fiacre’s Church. All are welcome.
Rosary
The monthly rosary on the First Sunday in James Green at the statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny continues this Sunday, 7th March at 3pm. All are welcome.
Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes
The Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes takes place from 22nd May to 27th May. If you know of any parishioner who might benefit from making the pilgrimage, but might need financial assistance, please contact any member of St. Patrick’s Lourdes Fund Committee: Martin Brett, 087 265 1272, Bernie Cantwell 086 333 7188, Eamonn Brennan 087 257 7514, Bill Mulally 086 603 0414, Michael O’Dwyer 087 633 0294, Anne Tierney 086 861 7244, Tommy Mullins 776 3427, Mary Gypps 056 776 2721 or email: stpatricksparish@ossory.ie as soon as possible.
Charitable Donations to Parish
We recently sent CHY2 forms to those recorded as contributing €250 or more to the parish during 2009. We appeal to those who received such forms to complete them as indicated and return them to the parish office as soon as possible. This will enable us to make an early submission to the Revenue Commissioners to recover for the benefit of the parish the tax you paid on your contributions.
Please do not hesitate to contact the Parish Office (776 4400) if you feel you qualify and did not receive a form.
Healing Service at St Fiacre’s
A healing service takes place at St. Fiacre’s Church on Thursday, 11th March at 8.00pm. Please note the change of time as the church will be in use for a First Penance Service from 7.00pm that evening. Healing Mass on 25th March at 7.30pm.
Feast of St. John of God
Monday, 8th March is the Feast of St. John of God, the patron of the congregation of religious of the same name in our parish. The Sisters of St. John of God were founded in Wexford in October 1871 and arrived in Kilkenny in 1886. “We are an international Congregation of women religious, who endeavour to live a life of prayer and commitment to Gospel values. We share a common vision to bring God’s healing love to everyone, wherever we are.
Each of us responded in faith to a call to join this particular Congregation and to be faithful to the dream that inspired our Founders. Through our various ministries in many parts of the world, we aim to give concrete expression to God’s compassionate care for all people and the whole of creation.” (www.ssjg.org)
Priests and people of the parish join in congratulating the sisters and their collaborators and wish them well on their feast day.
St. Joseph’s Novena
The annual novena to St. Joseph begins at St. Joseph’s, Mill Hill Missionaries, Waterford Road on Thursday, 11th March. Mass and prayers each evening at 8.00pm. All welcome.
Volunteer Help Needed
Our parish will shortly need some help with the distribution of the parish envelope packs. Please contact the parish office if you are willing to help drop the boxes into a few dozen homes in your area. Some areas are well covered; however, we could do with help in many areas - especially the newer estates and where former distributors have retired or died.
Concert in the Castle
On Friday, 12th of March at 8pm the Brass Quintet "Quintessenz" from the Black Forest will play a concert in aid of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin in the Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle. On the night they will be preceded by St. Patrick's Brass and Reed Concert Band. Your support will be greatly appreciated and a great night’s entertainment is assured. Tickets at €10 are available from The Book Centre, High Street or on the door. For further information contact 087 212 0201.
SOS Parish Appeal
The SOS house to house appeal takes place in St Patrick’s Parish during the months of March and April. Leaflets will be dropped through your door during the next while and those involved ask you to be as generous as possible. SOS, Callan Road, Kilkenny provides work and accommodation for adults with special needs.
Thomastown Lenten Programme
There will be an Evening of Prayer through Song with David Parkes, international singer, in association with Marian Pilgrimages at the Parish Church, Thomastown on Thursday 11th March beginning at 7.30pm.
Thank You from IHCPT
Sincere thanks to all who supported the IHCPT concert at St. Fiacre’s Church on last Wednesday evening. Thanks especially to the artistes who gave their talents and time so freely. Almost €1,400 was raised to help send young people with special needs to Lourdes this Easter. We will remember you at the grotto.
Trocaire
Trócaire would like to thank everyone for their huge generosity to the Haiti appeal. Donations from the Irish public have surpassed all expectations: €3,486,815 (NI: Stg £979,643). Thanks to this support Trócaire will help thousands of survivors to rebuild their lives in Haiti.
However, this Lent Trócaire reminds us that, while earthquakes and natural disasters attract global attention, there are millions of people around the world who will go to bed hungry tonight. During Lent over 600,000 children will die from hunger and diseases caused by hunger. The total number of people that were killed by the recent earthquake in Haiti, is less than half that number. This hunger crisis is taking place away from the TV cameras in small, rural villages all over the developing world. Please support Trócaire’s Lenten campaign in whatever way you can, to help families overcome hunger.
Kilkenny City Harriers
Our Junior Ladies team has been selected to represent Ireland at the European Junior Club Champions Cup in Portugal in September. The cost involved in kitting out and bringing 20 plus members to Portugal is quite significant. As part of our fund raising programme we have organised a Fun Run “St. Patrick’s Day Dash” 5K for adults, 2K for juveniles with registration at The Watershed from 10am on St Patrick’s morning. "The Dash" starts at 11.00am. Please support this cause.
Family Liturgy
Don’t forget our weekly Family Liturgy at St. Fiacre’s Church. Young people with their parents gather to celebrate the liturgy at 10.30am Mass each Sunday. Practice is after the 6.45pm on Thursdays. All welcome.
Extra Mass for Lent
We have introduced an extra Mass for Lent. You are invited to join with us at St. Fiacre’s Church every weekday evening at 6.15pm.
Kilkenny Flower Club
The next meeting of Kilkenny Flower Club in Butler House on Thursday, 11th March at 8.00pm is a work night. That means we will participate in making either an arrangement called “Spring Contrast” or “Parallel Texture” For details of requirements please go to www.kilkennyflowerclub.wordpress.com or telephone 086 807 2040. All welcome.
Judo for Haiti
A judo demonstration to raise funds for Haiti will take place in McDonagh Junction on Saturday, 13th March beginning at 12.30pm and ending at 3pm. All monies raised will go to the Haven Fund who are working in Haiti.
Loughboy Library
Interested in trying out the Nintendo Wii? Loughboy Library will be holding a series of training classes for the over 55’s. Classes are free and you don’t need to own a Wii to take part. For more details contact 056 7794176.
Book Club: meets on Thursday April 1st at 10.30am. Book for this month is ‘The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas’. Copies available at the library. All welcome.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Second Sunday of Lent, 28th February 2010
Second Sunday of Lent
‘A cloud came and covered them with shadow; and when they went into the cloud the disciples were afraid’ (Luke 9:34).
In today’s Gospel we are invited into the world of Peter, John and James who followed Jesus up the mountain to pray. During this ritual however, the disciples found themselves surrounded by a dark cloud. Can you imagine how they felt? Lost, alone, insecure, petrified into silence... The feelings associated with entering a dark cloud of uncertainty are often reflected today by those who are physically weak and ill from chronic hunger. Not only are they hungry in the body but they are also psychologically hungry, craving the security of knowing where the next meal will come from. These are feelings Pilemina remembers all too well. She struggled to feed her children for five years in a refugee camp in Uganda. When the civil war ended the hunger and despair were too much and she decided she would rather die at home than in the camp. Now she receives help from Trócaire’s partners in the area and can grow enough to feed her family and send her grandchildren to school. “Life is better, we have enough food,” she says. Please support Trócaire’s Lenten campaign this year in whatever way you can.
Mass for Lent
Don’t forget Mass on Monday to Friday in St. Fiacre’s Church at 6:15pm.
Questions People Ask
Q. Why is the glorious story of the transfiguration always read during the penitential season of Lent?
A. Penance is better when it wears a happy face and is inspired by the desire for God’s light and glory. The three apostles who witnessed the glory of Jesus would later witness his fear and agony in Gethsemane. Their memory of the day of light would sustain them in the night of darkness. Treasure your times of light when you feel close to God as you will be able to draw strength from memory in times of darkness.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Joseph Lawlor, 19 Pinewood Avenue. Funeral prayers at Johnston’s Funeral Home at 7.00pm on Saturday followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church. Requiem Mass at 12.30pm on Sunday followed by interment in St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Tommy McCarthy, 37 Riverview. Funeral prayers at Hehir’s Funeral Home at 6.00pm on Monday followed by removal to St. Fiacre’s Church. Requiem Mass at 10.30am on Tuesday followed by cremation at Mount St. Jerome’s Crematorium, Dublin. Rosary at 8.00pm on Sunday. Mary Cantwell-Dickerson, late of Danesfort and USA. Memorial Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 7.30pm on Friday. Margaret Dollard, late of Michael Street and England. William Brennan, Conahy and USA. Cyril Deegan, 8 St. Francis Terrace.
Months Mind: Rory Quinn (Fri 6.15)
Anniversaries: John & Brigid O’Rourke (Sat 6.15), Pat Adams (Sat 7.00), Peggy McGrath (Sun 10.00), Thomas & Brigid Casey (Sun 10.30), Brian Griffin (Sun 12.00), Joanne Fanning (Sun 12.30), Mary Fitzpatrick (Mon 6.15), Mikey Holland (Tues 9.30), Gerard Lincoln (Wed 10.30), Billy Wallace (Sat 9.30), Sr. Teresa Landy, Michael McKane, Andrew McCarthy, Peter Kiernan, Patrick Barry, Eamon Muldowney, Deirdre McGuinness, John Bradley, Catherine Beckett, Jack Talbot, Tina O’Driscoll, Billy Maguire.
Intentions for next weekend: Lulu Lynch (Sat 6.15), Vincent Morrissey (Sat 7.00), Brendan Reid (Sun 9.30), Mick Brophy (Sun 10.00), Bobby Brannigan (Sun 12.30).
Bereavement Support
Our 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. Free and confidential.
Rainbows is a peer support group for bereaved children. The next course begins at St. John’s Day Care Centre at the rear of St. John’s Church, Dublin Road on Tuesday 9th March between 5 and 6.00pm. Contact Margaret on 087 908 7659 for referrals.
Bible Study
Sr. De Lourdes Sheridan will hold a Bible Study on Tuesdays, 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd March in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 10pm. For further information phone Kathleen on 087 246 8443. All welcome.
Lunchtime Theology
Lent allows us to follow and reflect on the most significant days in the life of Jesus. Maybe it also offers us an opportune time to reflect on what is significant in our own lives or more specifically in our lives of faith.
This Lent the Ossory Adult Faith Development Group offers an opportunity to explore our faith journey as Christians. Why not join in an informal and relaxed manner, for 45 minutes over a cup of soup and a sandwich, to reflect on some of the stages of our lives of faith? The venue is the “Hole in the Wall”, 17 High Street, Kilkenny. On this Friday, 5th March at 1.00pm Fr. W. Dalton will talk on “An Aid - The Sacramental Life: Can they speak to our reality?”
Our Lady of Perpetual Help
The Redemptorist Fathers continue to present the Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help at St John’s Church until Tuesday, 2nd March. 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. There will be a blessing of babies and young children and the distribution of miraculous medals on this Sunday at 3pm.
Westcourt News
The March Mass for the blessings of Edmund Rice on our lives and for his canonisation will be celebrated in Westcourt on Monday, 1st March at 7.30pm. The Bereavement Society is preparing the liturgy for this mass.
Lenten Station
The Lenten Station envelope for the support of the priests of the parish and the bishop is due about now. Please use the yellow envelope in your current pack of parish envelopes. We are grateful to all who continue to support us priests in these difficult times.
Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes
Those wishing to travel on the diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes, 22nd—27th May should now contact Eleanor at Glenmore Parish Office on 051 880 414, weekdays excluding Wednesday 10.30am to 2.30pm.
Concert at St. Fiacre’s Church
Each year at Easter, the Irish Pilgrimage Trust, a registered charity in Ireland, travels on pilgrimage/holiday to Lourdes with young people with special needs. Fr. Dan is chaplain to Group 174 which is based in Kilkenny/Carlow. The helpers pay their own fares but it falls on the groups to provide for the fares and costs of providing the pilgrimage, holiday and respite for the young people.
To help offset this year’s cost Group 174 presents a concert at St. Fiacre’s Church on this Wednesday evening at 8.00pm. Guests include The Kilkenny Gospel Choir, Trish Carroll, Jimmy Byrne, Billy Molloy, Noreen Cooney, Orla Maloney, Nicky McCullagh, Peter Prendergast and others. An excellent evening’s entertainment is guaranteed. Please come along and support this worthy cause.
Oberammergau Passion Play
Gripped by war, poverty and plague, the villagers of Oberammergau, in Bavaria, southern Germany vowed to put on a 'passion play' every ten years… That was back in 1633. They survived, and performed the first Oberammergau Passion Play in 1634. Ever since, their descendants have carried out that pledge. For the past four centuries the tradition has continued, every ten years. Only villagers have been allowed to take part. And that is what will happen yet again in 2010, from 15th May until 3rd October.
A number of parishioners are exploring the possibility of forming a small pilgrimage/holiday around this year’s Play and are seeking expressions of interest. The cost, including tickets to the play, will be in the region of €1,700. Please contact Ted Byrne or Fr. Dan who will consider organising the trip if there is enough local interest.
Church Gate Collection
The School of the Holy Spirit has a Garda permit for a church gate collection next weekend. Please support this school which provides services for those with autism and special needs.
Attention Parents
Do you want to talk so kids will listen and listen so kids will talk?
Koemba Parenting Programme: St Patrick’s Parish Centre, Loughboy Kilkenny commencing on Tuesday, 4th March 7.30pm to 10.00pm. Eight amazing evenings for only €187. www.koemba.com Phone Val 087 760 9355.
Parish Website
Don’t forget to visit www.patricksparish.net
Colaiste Eamann Rís
An assessment morning for boys intending to commence secondary school in Sept 2010 in Callan CBS will take place from 9-30 a.m. to 11-30 a.m. on Saturday March 6th .For further information please contact the school at 056-772 5340.
Our Lady’s Hospital for Children
A concert in aid of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin will take place in the Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle on Friday, 12th of March at 8.00pm. Featured artists on the night will be Quintessenz, a group from the Black Forest area accompanied by our very own St. Patrick's Brass and Reed Band. Admission €10. Your support will be greatly appreciated. Tickets from Book Centre.
Second Sunday of Lent – February 28, 2010
This is my beloved Son, hear him. Take some time to hear the beloved Son speaking to you. What does he say? If you think God is calling you, contact the Vocations Director Fr. Willie Purcell 0876286858 or ossoryvocations.blogspot.com.
Booking Anniversary Masses
We take great care in recording and announcing deaths and anniversaries but sometimes due to human error we make mistakes. If you are requesting a weekend Mass, it’s always a good idea to book early. Please check the newsletter the week before to make sure your anniversary is listed correctly. If you notice an error or omission, please contact the parish secretary or any of the priests. Where possible, please don’t leave an anniversary booking on an answering machine, try talk to someone in the office or to one of the priests. Thanks.
Parish Shop
Located in the parish centre, our religious goods shop stocks a wide variety of religious and devotional items. Now on display is a wide variety of items for First Holy Communion. The shop is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4pm. You are welcome to drop in and have a look.
Collection for Haiti
Rosary’s, Religious Objects, Prayer leaflets/books, prayer cards wanted. Can be brought to the sacristies or the Parish Centre.
Irish Children's Pilgrimage Trust
Grand Fundraising Concert
St. Fiacre's Church, Loughboy
Wednesday 3rd March at 8pm
The Kilkenny Gospel Choir, Trish Carroll, Jimmy Byrne, Billy Molloy, Noreen Cooney, Orla Phelan, Nicky McCullagh, Peter Prendergast plus other guests. Proceeds will be used to help send children with special needs on pilgrimage to Lourdes this Easter.
Admission €5.00
Concert in Castle
A concert in aid of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children Crumlin will take place in the Parade Tower of Kilkenny Castle on Friday 12th of March at 8pm. Featured artists on the night will be Quintessenz a group of musicians from the Black Forest area of Germany accompanied by our very own St. Patrick's Brass and Reed Band. Admission 10 euro. Your support will be greatly appreciated. Tickets available from Book Centre High Street, on the door. Any queries to 087 212 0201
Lourdes
Those wishing to travel on the diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes, May 22 to May 27th. inc. should now contact Eleanor on 051 880414 weekdays excluding Wednesday 10.30 a.m. to 2.30 pm.
Callan CBS
An assessment morning for boys intending to commence secondary school in Sept 2010 in Callan CBS will take place from 9-30 a.m. to 11-30 a.m. on Saturday March 6th .For further information please contact the school at 056-7725340
New Parish Envelopes
We are now updating the parish system and getting ready to order and distribute new parish contribution envelopes. As you’ll know, these envelopes are our main source of income (after the parish draw which is finishing), and go towards meeting our day to day running costs as well as our debt on the parish centre.
If you haven’t received parish envelopes up to now and would like to support your parish, then please contact us.
Thanks to all who support us. More will follow next week.
‘A cloud came and covered them with shadow; and when they went into the cloud the disciples were afraid’ (Luke 9:34).
In today’s Gospel we are invited into the world of Peter, John and James who followed Jesus up the mountain to pray. During this ritual however, the disciples found themselves surrounded by a dark cloud. Can you imagine how they felt? Lost, alone, insecure, petrified into silence... The feelings associated with entering a dark cloud of uncertainty are often reflected today by those who are physically weak and ill from chronic hunger. Not only are they hungry in the body but they are also psychologically hungry, craving the security of knowing where the next meal will come from. These are feelings Pilemina remembers all too well. She struggled to feed her children for five years in a refugee camp in Uganda. When the civil war ended the hunger and despair were too much and she decided she would rather die at home than in the camp. Now she receives help from Trócaire’s partners in the area and can grow enough to feed her family and send her grandchildren to school. “Life is better, we have enough food,” she says. Please support Trócaire’s Lenten campaign this year in whatever way you can.
Mass for Lent
Don’t forget Mass on Monday to Friday in St. Fiacre’s Church at 6:15pm.
Questions People Ask
Q. Why is the glorious story of the transfiguration always read during the penitential season of Lent?
A. Penance is better when it wears a happy face and is inspired by the desire for God’s light and glory. The three apostles who witnessed the glory of Jesus would later witness his fear and agony in Gethsemane. Their memory of the day of light would sustain them in the night of darkness. Treasure your times of light when you feel close to God as you will be able to draw strength from memory in times of darkness.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Joseph Lawlor, 19 Pinewood Avenue. Funeral prayers at Johnston’s Funeral Home at 7.00pm on Saturday followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church. Requiem Mass at 12.30pm on Sunday followed by interment in St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Tommy McCarthy, 37 Riverview. Funeral prayers at Hehir’s Funeral Home at 6.00pm on Monday followed by removal to St. Fiacre’s Church. Requiem Mass at 10.30am on Tuesday followed by cremation at Mount St. Jerome’s Crematorium, Dublin. Rosary at 8.00pm on Sunday. Mary Cantwell-Dickerson, late of Danesfort and USA. Memorial Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 7.30pm on Friday. Margaret Dollard, late of Michael Street and England. William Brennan, Conahy and USA. Cyril Deegan, 8 St. Francis Terrace.
Months Mind: Rory Quinn (Fri 6.15)
Anniversaries: John & Brigid O’Rourke (Sat 6.15), Pat Adams (Sat 7.00), Peggy McGrath (Sun 10.00), Thomas & Brigid Casey (Sun 10.30), Brian Griffin (Sun 12.00), Joanne Fanning (Sun 12.30), Mary Fitzpatrick (Mon 6.15), Mikey Holland (Tues 9.30), Gerard Lincoln (Wed 10.30), Billy Wallace (Sat 9.30), Sr. Teresa Landy, Michael McKane, Andrew McCarthy, Peter Kiernan, Patrick Barry, Eamon Muldowney, Deirdre McGuinness, John Bradley, Catherine Beckett, Jack Talbot, Tina O’Driscoll, Billy Maguire.
Intentions for next weekend: Lulu Lynch (Sat 6.15), Vincent Morrissey (Sat 7.00), Brendan Reid (Sun 9.30), Mick Brophy (Sun 10.00), Bobby Brannigan (Sun 12.30).
Bereavement Support
Our 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. Free and confidential.
Rainbows is a peer support group for bereaved children. The next course begins at St. John’s Day Care Centre at the rear of St. John’s Church, Dublin Road on Tuesday 9th March between 5 and 6.00pm. Contact Margaret on 087 908 7659 for referrals.
Bible Study
Sr. De Lourdes Sheridan will hold a Bible Study on Tuesdays, 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd March in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 10pm. For further information phone Kathleen on 087 246 8443. All welcome.
Lunchtime Theology
Lent allows us to follow and reflect on the most significant days in the life of Jesus. Maybe it also offers us an opportune time to reflect on what is significant in our own lives or more specifically in our lives of faith.
This Lent the Ossory Adult Faith Development Group offers an opportunity to explore our faith journey as Christians. Why not join in an informal and relaxed manner, for 45 minutes over a cup of soup and a sandwich, to reflect on some of the stages of our lives of faith? The venue is the “Hole in the Wall”, 17 High Street, Kilkenny. On this Friday, 5th March at 1.00pm Fr. W. Dalton will talk on “An Aid - The Sacramental Life: Can they speak to our reality?”
Our Lady of Perpetual Help
The Redemptorist Fathers continue to present the Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help at St John’s Church until Tuesday, 2nd March. 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. There will be a blessing of babies and young children and the distribution of miraculous medals on this Sunday at 3pm.
Westcourt News
The March Mass for the blessings of Edmund Rice on our lives and for his canonisation will be celebrated in Westcourt on Monday, 1st March at 7.30pm. The Bereavement Society is preparing the liturgy for this mass.
Lenten Station
The Lenten Station envelope for the support of the priests of the parish and the bishop is due about now. Please use the yellow envelope in your current pack of parish envelopes. We are grateful to all who continue to support us priests in these difficult times.
Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes
Those wishing to travel on the diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes, 22nd—27th May should now contact Eleanor at Glenmore Parish Office on 051 880 414, weekdays excluding Wednesday 10.30am to 2.30pm.
Concert at St. Fiacre’s Church
Each year at Easter, the Irish Pilgrimage Trust, a registered charity in Ireland, travels on pilgrimage/holiday to Lourdes with young people with special needs. Fr. Dan is chaplain to Group 174 which is based in Kilkenny/Carlow. The helpers pay their own fares but it falls on the groups to provide for the fares and costs of providing the pilgrimage, holiday and respite for the young people.
To help offset this year’s cost Group 174 presents a concert at St. Fiacre’s Church on this Wednesday evening at 8.00pm. Guests include The Kilkenny Gospel Choir, Trish Carroll, Jimmy Byrne, Billy Molloy, Noreen Cooney, Orla Maloney, Nicky McCullagh, Peter Prendergast and others. An excellent evening’s entertainment is guaranteed. Please come along and support this worthy cause.
Oberammergau Passion Play
Gripped by war, poverty and plague, the villagers of Oberammergau, in Bavaria, southern Germany vowed to put on a 'passion play' every ten years… That was back in 1633. They survived, and performed the first Oberammergau Passion Play in 1634. Ever since, their descendants have carried out that pledge. For the past four centuries the tradition has continued, every ten years. Only villagers have been allowed to take part. And that is what will happen yet again in 2010, from 15th May until 3rd October.
A number of parishioners are exploring the possibility of forming a small pilgrimage/holiday around this year’s Play and are seeking expressions of interest. The cost, including tickets to the play, will be in the region of €1,700. Please contact Ted Byrne or Fr. Dan who will consider organising the trip if there is enough local interest.
Church Gate Collection
The School of the Holy Spirit has a Garda permit for a church gate collection next weekend. Please support this school which provides services for those with autism and special needs.
Attention Parents
Do you want to talk so kids will listen and listen so kids will talk?
Koemba Parenting Programme: St Patrick’s Parish Centre, Loughboy Kilkenny commencing on Tuesday, 4th March 7.30pm to 10.00pm. Eight amazing evenings for only €187. www.koemba.com Phone Val 087 760 9355.
Parish Website
Don’t forget to visit www.patricksparish.net
Colaiste Eamann Rís
An assessment morning for boys intending to commence secondary school in Sept 2010 in Callan CBS will take place from 9-30 a.m. to 11-30 a.m. on Saturday March 6th .For further information please contact the school at 056-772 5340.
Our Lady’s Hospital for Children
A concert in aid of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin will take place in the Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle on Friday, 12th of March at 8.00pm. Featured artists on the night will be Quintessenz, a group from the Black Forest area accompanied by our very own St. Patrick's Brass and Reed Band. Admission €10. Your support will be greatly appreciated. Tickets from Book Centre.
Second Sunday of Lent – February 28, 2010
This is my beloved Son, hear him. Take some time to hear the beloved Son speaking to you. What does he say? If you think God is calling you, contact the Vocations Director Fr. Willie Purcell 0876286858 or ossoryvocations.blogspot.com.
Booking Anniversary Masses
We take great care in recording and announcing deaths and anniversaries but sometimes due to human error we make mistakes. If you are requesting a weekend Mass, it’s always a good idea to book early. Please check the newsletter the week before to make sure your anniversary is listed correctly. If you notice an error or omission, please contact the parish secretary or any of the priests. Where possible, please don’t leave an anniversary booking on an answering machine, try talk to someone in the office or to one of the priests. Thanks.
Parish Shop
Located in the parish centre, our religious goods shop stocks a wide variety of religious and devotional items. Now on display is a wide variety of items for First Holy Communion. The shop is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4pm. You are welcome to drop in and have a look.
Collection for Haiti
Rosary’s, Religious Objects, Prayer leaflets/books, prayer cards wanted. Can be brought to the sacristies or the Parish Centre.
Irish Children's Pilgrimage Trust
Grand Fundraising Concert
St. Fiacre's Church, Loughboy
Wednesday 3rd March at 8pm
The Kilkenny Gospel Choir, Trish Carroll, Jimmy Byrne, Billy Molloy, Noreen Cooney, Orla Phelan, Nicky McCullagh, Peter Prendergast plus other guests. Proceeds will be used to help send children with special needs on pilgrimage to Lourdes this Easter.
Admission €5.00
Concert in Castle
A concert in aid of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children Crumlin will take place in the Parade Tower of Kilkenny Castle on Friday 12th of March at 8pm. Featured artists on the night will be Quintessenz a group of musicians from the Black Forest area of Germany accompanied by our very own St. Patrick's Brass and Reed Band. Admission 10 euro. Your support will be greatly appreciated. Tickets available from Book Centre High Street, on the door. Any queries to 087 212 0201
Lourdes
Those wishing to travel on the diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes, May 22 to May 27th. inc. should now contact Eleanor on 051 880414 weekdays excluding Wednesday 10.30 a.m. to 2.30 pm.
Callan CBS
An assessment morning for boys intending to commence secondary school in Sept 2010 in Callan CBS will take place from 9-30 a.m. to 11-30 a.m. on Saturday March 6th .For further information please contact the school at 056-7725340
New Parish Envelopes
We are now updating the parish system and getting ready to order and distribute new parish contribution envelopes. As you’ll know, these envelopes are our main source of income (after the parish draw which is finishing), and go towards meeting our day to day running costs as well as our debt on the parish centre.
If you haven’t received parish envelopes up to now and would like to support your parish, then please contact us.
Thanks to all who support us. More will follow next week.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
First Sunday of Lent, February 21st, 2010
Morality Genes
After twenty years of research and God knows how much expense it’s finally on the market: the blue rose. Not available in Nature, it’s the product of genetic manipulation. Someone, obviously not given to flowery language, has rather prosaically named it Applause. Marketed as a special occasion gift, for wedding anniversaries, birthdays and the likes, it retails at about €22 per stem. That should weed out the true romantics from the common garden variety, don’t you think? What’s that got to do with Lent? Nothing, really! I was just thinking that even with the impressive dedication and considerable resources that twenty into manufacturing this blushing freak of nature, you could wait until you were blue in the face before you’d see genetics modify a human being in to a better person. The day of the morality gene isn’t just around the corner. So, for those sensible enough to want to be a better person what more effective way to go about it than by listening to what Paul says in today’s Second Reading: The word is near you, on your lips and in your heart. (Rom 10:8-13). Lent is a time for listening. There’s much sacrifice involved in listening wells: sacrifice of time, emotional comfort and the luxury of aloofness. Is it going too fat to say that those who don’t listen to God’s word can’t listen to anyone else’s?
What better way, then, to start Lent than by tuning in to God’s word as we listen to our heart express its deepest desire. God’s word, our heart? A rose by any other name……
Fr Tom Cahill SVD
St. Patrick’s Bereavement Support Group
We offer 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.
St. Patrick’s on the Web
Tell your relatives and friends living abroad.
Questions people ask
In the temptations of Jesus, how could the devil claim that all the kingdoms of the earth belonged to him and that he has power to give them to anyone he chose?
The devil’s claim was a downright lie, no bother to Satan who was called the ‘father of lies’ by Jesus. Every temptation is based on a lie, a false promise. The most successful lie is the half-truth: the falsehood is camouflaged by something attractive or desirable. Perhaps a good plan for Lent would be a resolution to be totally honest with yourself, with others and with God. ‘The truth will set you free’.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for our Deceased
Recently Deceased: Seamus Brennan, St. Fiacre’s Place. Patricia Lee, Dublin. Rory Quinn, London & Cedarwood Park. May Davis, St. Fiacre’s Place. Michael Burke, Tralee (Sun 12.30). Matt Gleeson, Sycamore Drive.
Months Mind: Patrick McKenna (Sun 11.00)
Anniversaries: Nicholas Healy (Sat 6.15), Mary Lynch (Sat 7.00), Patrick & Teresa Kennedy (Sun 9.30), Mick & Ellen Doyle (Sun 10.00), Margaret Fell (Sun 10.30), Canice & Michael Dunphy (Sun 12.00), Philip Grace (Mon 6.15), (Michael & Mary Muldowney (Tues 9.30), John Millea (Tues 10.30), Ann Somers (Wed 9.30), Catherine Cullen, Kieran Healy, Kitty Morris, Thomas Traynor, Mary & Cecil Pullan, Ann Mulhall, Tom Manogue, Patsy Hawe, Anne Kelly, Stan Landers, Martin Dermody, Richard Kinsella, Michael Drennan.
Intentions for next weekend: John & Brigid O’Rourke (Sat 6.15), Pat Adams (Sat 7.00), Peggy McGrath (Sun 10.00), Thomas & Brigid Casey (Sun 10.30), Brian Griffin (Sun 12.00), Joanne Fanning (Sun 12.30), Billy Wallace (Birthday Remembrance Sat 9.30).
Bible Study
Sr. De Lourdes Sheridan will hold a Bible Study Tues 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd March in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 10pm. For further information phone Kathleen 087 2468443.
St. Vincent de Paul Collection
The monthly collection in aid of the St. Vincent de Paul will be taken up as part of our second collection. Please support if you can. Money collected locally stays locally.
If you need the assistance of the society, you can contact them in confidence on 087 681 0589.
Trocaire
First Sunday of Lent 21/02/2010
‘When the Egyptians treated us harshly and afflicted us, by imposing hard labor on us, we cried to the LORD... and he brought us into this place and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey.’ (Deuteronomy 26:6-7,9)
As the Israelites suffered at the hands of the Egyptians, they appealed to the Lord for comfort and assistance, in the way that we would pray to God during times of turmoil and insecurity, asking him to lead us towards our land of ‘milk and honey.’ However, in other parts of the Christian family, there is a reality of praying to God for land where they can cultivate actual milk or honey to feed themselves and their families. The world is not short of food but people’s inability to access land, water and technology within rural areas often means they go hungry. Over one billion people in the world will go to sleep hungry tonight. Most of them are from rural, farming families. Securing access to these resources for these farmers is a priority for Trócaire’s programmes around the world. Please support Trócaire’s Lenten campaign this year in whatever way you can.
St. Vincent de Paul Shop
The St. Vincent de Paul Society is now receiving good quality First Communion Dresses and second hand clothes at their shop Fred's Fashions, Butts Green. Also if you have 3 hours a week to become a volunteer your service would be greatly appreciated for this greatly rewarding work. Please contact the shop on 056 770 2637. Thank you.
www.patricksparish.com
Loughboy Library
AONTAS - Adult Learner’s Festival Feb 22nd - 26th. Fri 26th 11am: “Things on the Wall” - An introduction to the Butler Gallery and its Collection hosted by Jean Tormey, Education Curator, Butler Gallery. The 5-6 Women’s Art Project will be on display at the library until March 6th. Free event, all welcome.
Kilkenny Christian Churches for Haiti 2010
The four main Christian Churches in Kilkenny have joined together in a fund
raising project in aid of Concern's appeal for the earthquake victims in Haiti. The duration of the project will coincide with the seasons of Lent and Easter (17th February - 4th April 2010). Church/parish/ youth/sporting groups are invited to hold fund-raising events with the proceeds going to the appeal. In order to facilitate collection of funds, an account is being opened in St Canice's Credit Union, Kilkenny in the name of the project which is titled Kilkenny Christian Churches for Haiti (KCCH). Any person or group wishing to contribute to the fund may wish to call the contact person for the project who is Paul McKiernan, telephone 087 9043071 or 087 1216481.
Thomastown Lenten Programme
Forward in Faith: Wed 24th February at 7.30pm
Mass with guest speaker Sr. Veronica Mangan (founder of Aislinn Centre) Theme: An Invitation for Change
Tuesday 2nd March at 7.30pm. Mass with guest speaker Ned Quinn (secretary of Kilkenny County Board) Theme: Personal Faith
Thursday 11th March at 7.30pm An evening of prayer through song with David Parkes (sportsman and musician who shares his own story of faith).
Tues 23rd March at 7.30pm. Service of Repentance/Reconciliation and Healing led by Fr. Martin Delaney
Lent Mass
Mass every evening, Monday to Friday in St. Fiacre’s Church at 6:15pm
Our Lady of Perpetual Help
The Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help will take place in St John’s Church from Monday 22nd February to Tuesday March 2nd. The novena will be directed by three Redemptorist priests: Fr John Hanna, Fr Kieran Brady and Fr Tony Rice. During the nine days of 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 a day devoted to the celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The Sacrament of the Sick will be celebrated on Saturday 27th at 10.30am and there will be a blessing of babies and young children and the distribution of miraculous medals on Sunday 28th at 3pm. A special shrine to Our Lady will be in place during the Novena; candles, petitions and thanksgiving cards and prayer/hymn books will be available throughout the week. All are welcome – please tell your friends.
Marriage Introduction Bureau
The aim of the Knock Marriage Introduction Bureau is to introduce people considering marriage to a suitable marriage partner. Over 800 marriages have taken place as a result of these introductions. Phone 094 937 5960.
The All Ireland Talent Show
Don’t forget to tune in to the Wildcard Show on RTE1 on this Sunday evening at 6.30pm and vote for parishioner Ross Hennessy and his group, Na Fianna.
Parish Shop
Located in the parish centre, our religious goods shop stocks a wide variety of religious and devotional items. Now on display is a wide variety of items for First Holy Communion. The shop is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4pm. You are welcome to drop in and have a look.
Signed Mass Cards
Mass Cards signed by the priests of the parish are available at reception and there’s a variety of cards to choose from. Each signed card is an undertaking that an individual mass will be offered for the intention requested (unlike the many fake ones for sale elsewhere). Every two weeks the list of intentions is sent to the Church approved charity ‘Aid to the Church in Need’, who forward the mass intentions to priests in mission countries. For many priests this is the only source of income they receive. So you are assured of a mass being said and you are helping the missions.
Booking Anniversary Masses
We take great care in recording and announcing deaths and anniversaries but sometimes due to human error we make mistakes. If you are requesting a weekend mass, it’s always a good idea to book early. Please check the newsletter the week before to make sure your anniversary is listed correctly. If you notice an error or omission, please contact the parish secretary or any of the priests. Where possible, please don’t leave an anniversary booking on an answering machine, try talk to someone in the office or to one of the priests. Thanks
After twenty years of research and God knows how much expense it’s finally on the market: the blue rose. Not available in Nature, it’s the product of genetic manipulation. Someone, obviously not given to flowery language, has rather prosaically named it Applause. Marketed as a special occasion gift, for wedding anniversaries, birthdays and the likes, it retails at about €22 per stem. That should weed out the true romantics from the common garden variety, don’t you think? What’s that got to do with Lent? Nothing, really! I was just thinking that even with the impressive dedication and considerable resources that twenty into manufacturing this blushing freak of nature, you could wait until you were blue in the face before you’d see genetics modify a human being in to a better person. The day of the morality gene isn’t just around the corner. So, for those sensible enough to want to be a better person what more effective way to go about it than by listening to what Paul says in today’s Second Reading: The word is near you, on your lips and in your heart. (Rom 10:8-13). Lent is a time for listening. There’s much sacrifice involved in listening wells: sacrifice of time, emotional comfort and the luxury of aloofness. Is it going too fat to say that those who don’t listen to God’s word can’t listen to anyone else’s?
What better way, then, to start Lent than by tuning in to God’s word as we listen to our heart express its deepest desire. God’s word, our heart? A rose by any other name……
Fr Tom Cahill SVD
St. Patrick’s Bereavement Support Group
We offer 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.
St. Patrick’s on the Web
Tell your relatives and friends living abroad.
Questions people ask
In the temptations of Jesus, how could the devil claim that all the kingdoms of the earth belonged to him and that he has power to give them to anyone he chose?
The devil’s claim was a downright lie, no bother to Satan who was called the ‘father of lies’ by Jesus. Every temptation is based on a lie, a false promise. The most successful lie is the half-truth: the falsehood is camouflaged by something attractive or desirable. Perhaps a good plan for Lent would be a resolution to be totally honest with yourself, with others and with God. ‘The truth will set you free’.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for our Deceased
Recently Deceased: Seamus Brennan, St. Fiacre’s Place. Patricia Lee, Dublin. Rory Quinn, London & Cedarwood Park. May Davis, St. Fiacre’s Place. Michael Burke, Tralee (Sun 12.30). Matt Gleeson, Sycamore Drive.
Months Mind: Patrick McKenna (Sun 11.00)
Anniversaries: Nicholas Healy (Sat 6.15), Mary Lynch (Sat 7.00), Patrick & Teresa Kennedy (Sun 9.30), Mick & Ellen Doyle (Sun 10.00), Margaret Fell (Sun 10.30), Canice & Michael Dunphy (Sun 12.00), Philip Grace (Mon 6.15), (Michael & Mary Muldowney (Tues 9.30), John Millea (Tues 10.30), Ann Somers (Wed 9.30), Catherine Cullen, Kieran Healy, Kitty Morris, Thomas Traynor, Mary & Cecil Pullan, Ann Mulhall, Tom Manogue, Patsy Hawe, Anne Kelly, Stan Landers, Martin Dermody, Richard Kinsella, Michael Drennan.
Intentions for next weekend: John & Brigid O’Rourke (Sat 6.15), Pat Adams (Sat 7.00), Peggy McGrath (Sun 10.00), Thomas & Brigid Casey (Sun 10.30), Brian Griffin (Sun 12.00), Joanne Fanning (Sun 12.30), Billy Wallace (Birthday Remembrance Sat 9.30).
Bible Study
Sr. De Lourdes Sheridan will hold a Bible Study Tues 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd March in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 10pm. For further information phone Kathleen 087 2468443.
St. Vincent de Paul Collection
The monthly collection in aid of the St. Vincent de Paul will be taken up as part of our second collection. Please support if you can. Money collected locally stays locally.
If you need the assistance of the society, you can contact them in confidence on 087 681 0589.
Trocaire
First Sunday of Lent 21/02/2010
‘When the Egyptians treated us harshly and afflicted us, by imposing hard labor on us, we cried to the LORD... and he brought us into this place and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey.’ (Deuteronomy 26:6-7,9)
As the Israelites suffered at the hands of the Egyptians, they appealed to the Lord for comfort and assistance, in the way that we would pray to God during times of turmoil and insecurity, asking him to lead us towards our land of ‘milk and honey.’ However, in other parts of the Christian family, there is a reality of praying to God for land where they can cultivate actual milk or honey to feed themselves and their families. The world is not short of food but people’s inability to access land, water and technology within rural areas often means they go hungry. Over one billion people in the world will go to sleep hungry tonight. Most of them are from rural, farming families. Securing access to these resources for these farmers is a priority for Trócaire’s programmes around the world. Please support Trócaire’s Lenten campaign this year in whatever way you can.
St. Vincent de Paul Shop
The St. Vincent de Paul Society is now receiving good quality First Communion Dresses and second hand clothes at their shop Fred's Fashions, Butts Green. Also if you have 3 hours a week to become a volunteer your service would be greatly appreciated for this greatly rewarding work. Please contact the shop on 056 770 2637. Thank you.
www.patricksparish.com
Loughboy Library
AONTAS - Adult Learner’s Festival Feb 22nd - 26th. Fri 26th 11am: “Things on the Wall” - An introduction to the Butler Gallery and its Collection hosted by Jean Tormey, Education Curator, Butler Gallery. The 5-6 Women’s Art Project will be on display at the library until March 6th. Free event, all welcome.
Kilkenny Christian Churches for Haiti 2010
The four main Christian Churches in Kilkenny have joined together in a fund
raising project in aid of Concern's appeal for the earthquake victims in Haiti. The duration of the project will coincide with the seasons of Lent and Easter (17th February - 4th April 2010). Church/parish/ youth/sporting groups are invited to hold fund-raising events with the proceeds going to the appeal. In order to facilitate collection of funds, an account is being opened in St Canice's Credit Union, Kilkenny in the name of the project which is titled Kilkenny Christian Churches for Haiti (KCCH). Any person or group wishing to contribute to the fund may wish to call the contact person for the project who is Paul McKiernan, telephone 087 9043071 or 087 1216481.
Thomastown Lenten Programme
Forward in Faith: Wed 24th February at 7.30pm
Mass with guest speaker Sr. Veronica Mangan (founder of Aislinn Centre) Theme: An Invitation for Change
Tuesday 2nd March at 7.30pm. Mass with guest speaker Ned Quinn (secretary of Kilkenny County Board) Theme: Personal Faith
Thursday 11th March at 7.30pm An evening of prayer through song with David Parkes (sportsman and musician who shares his own story of faith).
Tues 23rd March at 7.30pm. Service of Repentance/Reconciliation and Healing led by Fr. Martin Delaney
Lent Mass
Mass every evening, Monday to Friday in St. Fiacre’s Church at 6:15pm
Our Lady of Perpetual Help
The Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help will take place in St John’s Church from Monday 22nd February to Tuesday March 2nd. The novena will be directed by three Redemptorist priests: Fr John Hanna, Fr Kieran Brady and Fr Tony Rice. During the nine days of 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 a day devoted to the celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The Sacrament of the Sick will be celebrated on Saturday 27th at 10.30am and there will be a blessing of babies and young children and the distribution of miraculous medals on Sunday 28th at 3pm. A special shrine to Our Lady will be in place during the Novena; candles, petitions and thanksgiving cards and prayer/hymn books will be available throughout the week. All are welcome – please tell your friends.
Marriage Introduction Bureau
The aim of the Knock Marriage Introduction Bureau is to introduce people considering marriage to a suitable marriage partner. Over 800 marriages have taken place as a result of these introductions. Phone 094 937 5960.
The All Ireland Talent Show
Don’t forget to tune in to the Wildcard Show on RTE1 on this Sunday evening at 6.30pm and vote for parishioner Ross Hennessy and his group, Na Fianna.
Parish Shop
Located in the parish centre, our religious goods shop stocks a wide variety of religious and devotional items. Now on display is a wide variety of items for First Holy Communion. The shop is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4pm. You are welcome to drop in and have a look.
Signed Mass Cards
Mass Cards signed by the priests of the parish are available at reception and there’s a variety of cards to choose from. Each signed card is an undertaking that an individual mass will be offered for the intention requested (unlike the many fake ones for sale elsewhere). Every two weeks the list of intentions is sent to the Church approved charity ‘Aid to the Church in Need’, who forward the mass intentions to priests in mission countries. For many priests this is the only source of income they receive. So you are assured of a mass being said and you are helping the missions.
Booking Anniversary Masses
We take great care in recording and announcing deaths and anniversaries but sometimes due to human error we make mistakes. If you are requesting a weekend mass, it’s always a good idea to book early. Please check the newsletter the week before to make sure your anniversary is listed correctly. If you notice an error or omission, please contact the parish secretary or any of the priests. Where possible, please don’t leave an anniversary booking on an answering machine, try talk to someone in the office or to one of the priests. Thanks
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