The Beloved Son
I have always found it strange to celebrate the feast of the baptism of Jesus so soon after Christmas. No sooner have we had time to reflect on the vulnerable little baby figure in the crib, than we are catapulted into the first public appearance of the adult Jesus as he receives the mandate for his mission on earth. Yet this dramatic leap forward reflects the movement of the Gospels. We know very little of Jesus’ life between the story of his birth and this story which marks the beginning of his pubic mission. Much as it would be intriguing to learn more about the young Jesus, the Gospels do not spend time on stories from Jesus’ childhood and young adulthood. Rather, they move very swiftly from the beginning of his life on earth to the beginning of his public ministry. We can sympathise with the hesitation of John the Baptist, who has been preaching about the one who is to come after him and recognises that this is a big moment. He is reluctant to baptize Jesus, saying ‘It is I who need baptism from you, and yet you come to me!’ Yet Jesus knows things are as they should be. He is ready to begin the task he has been sent to do, with the highest possible approval for his mission: the voice from heaven saying ‘This is my Son, the Beloved; my favour rests on him.’
Triona Doherty
Questions People Ask
Q. Can you explain why Jesus who was sinless had to receive baptism from John?
A. This of course wasn’t the Sacrament of Baptism as we know it but a ritual washing which John used to indicate a change of life. Although Jesus did not need this ritual washing, he freely chose to enter into solidarity with all who needed salvation. Thus he anticipated his sacrificial death on Calvary when he died to save us from our sins. His involvement with sinful humanity was total. St. Paul wrote that God made the sinless one to be sin so that we might be justified before God.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Brigid (Babs) Brennan, St. Fiacre’s Place. Rosary at Hehir’s Funeral Home at 9.00pm on Saturday evening. Funeral prayers at Hehir’s Funeral Home on Sunday at 11.00am followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church for Requiem Mass at 12.30pm. Burial afterwards in Foulkstown Cemetery. Rose Walsh, London & late of Laurel Green. Statia Walsh, Ballinalina. May Morley, Cappaquinn. Sr. Presentation McSweeney, Loreto Convent. Joe Woods, Connolly Street.
Months Mind: Christina Walshe (Sun 10.30), Anniversaries: Maura Molloy (Sat 6.15), Teresa Holden (Sat 7.00), Frank O’Shea (Sun 9.30), Liam Costello (Sun 10.00), Thomas Walshe (Sun 10.30), Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00), Teresa Walsh (Sun 12.00), Sean Devane (Sun 12.30), Johnny Brennan, Denis Guilfoyle, Catherine Brett, Ann Smyth, John Lanigan, John & Mamie Brett, Terry Brett, William, Tess & Joan Murphy, James & Annie O’Grady, Patrick, Delia & Margaret Taylor, Noel Dowling, Nancy Ronan, Mary Kate Hayes, Cornelius Carroll, Rita Bourke, Jimmy Coyne, Denis Nyhan, Christopher & Mary Ryan, Bill Esmonde.
Intentions Next Weekend: Anna Campion (Sat 6.15), Maureen O’Shea (Sat 7.00), John Bradley (Sun 10.00), Maeve Healy (Sun 10.30 Months Mind), Oliver Mannion (Sun 11.00), Paul Prodromou (Sun 12.00), Beattie O’Connell (Sun 12.30).
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Patrick’s Branch of the society will take place immediately after the 10.30am Mass in the Parish Centre on Friday, 14th January.
Divine Mercy
There will be an hour of adoration and prayer in honour of Divine Mercy in the Friary Church on Sunday, 9th January from 3- 4pm.
Healing Prayer and Mass
The usual healing prayers service will be held at St. Fiacre’s Church from 7.30pm—10.00pm on Thursday evening. Mass will be celebrated at 8.00pm. All are welcome.
Some Important Dates in 2011
First Holy Communion will be celebrated in our parish on the following dates:-
St. Patrick N.S.: 11.00am on Saturday, 7th May 2011 at St. Patrick’s Church.
St. John of God N.S.: 11.00am on Saturday, 14th May 2011 at St. Patrick’s Church.
Kilkenny School Project.: 12 noon on Sunday, 15th May 2011 at St. Fiacre’s Church
Gaelscoil Osraí: 11.00am on Saturday, 28th May 2011 at St. Fiacre’s Church.
Bishop Seamus will celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation with young people from schools in our parish on the following dates:-
Gaelscoil Osraí: 11am on Saturday, 14th May 2011 at St. Mary’s Cathedral.
Other Schools in the Parish: 11am on Saturday, 9th April 2011 at St. Mary’s Cathedral.
Pope Condemns Attacks
‘A despicable act of death’ is what Pope Benedict called the New Year’s Day bomb attack on the Coptic Church of the Saints in Alexandria, Egypt which claimed the lives of twenty-one Mass goers. Speaking during his traditional Angelus address in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, 2nd January the Pope said: “This despicable act of death, like the current trend of setting bombs close to the homes of Christians in Iraq to force them to leave, offends God and the whole of humanity which, only yesterday was praying for peace and began a New Year with hope.” The Pontiff assured his prayers “in the face of this strategy of violence that is targeting Christians with consequences on the entire population.” He also encouraged “church communities to persevere in faith and in the witness of non-violence which comes to us from the Gospel.”
The Pope's reference to Iraq referred to a wave of eleven bomb attacks on 30th December which killed two Christians and wounded sixteen others. That violence added to Iraqi Christian fear, particularly high after the explosion at a Christian church in Baghdad, which claimed more than fifty lives last October.
Please keep our persecuted Christian brothers and sisters in your prayers.
Your Family’s Mental Health
‘Understanding & Protecting you and your families mental health’ is the title of a talk to be given in Kilkenny shortly.
Presenter: Dr. Fergus Heffernan
Venue: Village Business Centre (Over McDonald’s), Patrick Street.
Date: Thursday, 20th January 2011.
Cost: €10
Booking (essential): 087 927 7479
Older Adults Swim Lessons
Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership has limited places available for Swim Lessons for older adults. Lessons take place on Wednesday (starting the 12th January) for beginners and Friday (starting 14th January) for improvers at 11am in the Ormonde Hotel. Lessons will run for 6 weeks and cost €20. For further information, contact the Sports Partnership on 056 772 0870 or info@krsp.ie
‘Console’ Seminar
“Suicide in Ireland – Supporting Our Students” on Tuesday, 15th February 2011 from 9.30am - 4.00pm. The seminar will be held at the Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley, Dublin.
This Seminar is aimed at those tasked with supporting adolescents and children through crisis times. Increasingly, professionals in the education sector are called upon to respond to students who are struggling with self-harming behaviour or suicidal ideation. In addition, students can be traumatised in the aftermath of a suicide in their school or community, and addressing grief and suicide bereavement in an appropriate and timely manner is crucial. This seminar welcomes nationally recognised experts in the fields of child and adolescent mental health. Attendees will gain an understanding of self harming and suicidal behaviour in Irish children and adolescents, and learn about fostering positive and resilient environments for children, during stressful or crisis times.
For further details and booking information, contact Console on 01 610 2638 or email ciaran@console.ie
James Stephens News
James Stephens U-14 panels are returning to commence their season for 2011. A membership registration night will be held in the club lounge on Tuesday, 11th January at 7.00pm. The first training session of 2011 will be on Thursday, 13th January in Nuncio Road at 6.30pm. New players are encouraged to join for what is sure to be a most enjoyable and successful year at U14 level.
The much anticipated U12 Carrigeen tournament cup final v Killeagh is re-fixed for the third time to go ahead this Sunday, 9th January in Carrigeen GAA. This final was postponed twice before the Christmas holidays due to the severe weather conditions. The very best of luck to the U12 players and mentors!
Help for those who Stammer
Do you stammer or stutter? The McGuire Programme can help. There will be an open information day on Saturday, 22nd January 2011 at 1.00pm in Springhill Court Hotel, Waterford Road, Kilkenny. All are welcome. For further information go to www.stammering.ie. Take control of your speech and communicate what you want.
Art Classes
Beginners and advanced welcome. Equipment supplied. Starting Monday, 17th January in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre from 2.30 – 5.00pm. Contact Eamonn on 086 334 5144 for further details.
Evening Mass in Kilkenny City
Mass is celebrated each weekday evening at 6.15pm at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny.
Pope Benedict Speaks to Youth
The Pope recently addressed a particular message to youth, reminding them of World Youth Day to be held in Madrid this August. He invited young people to be drawn in by Christ, “establishing with him a frank and deliberate dialogue and also asking themselves: Will the Lord count on me to be his apostle in the world, to be a messenger of his love?”
“May generosity not be lacking in responding, nor that fearlessness which led the Apostle James to follow the Master without sparing sacrifices,” the Holy Father said.
The Pope’s Letter was to those who accompanied him on his recent pilgrimage to Spain.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Second Sunday of Christmas 2nd January 2011
Heavens’ Embroidered Cloths
In his poem ‘He Wishes for the cloths of Heaven’, WB Yeats describes the skies as ‘the heavens’ embroidered cloths’;
‘Had I the heavens’ embroidered cloths,
Enwrought with golden and silver light,
The blue and the dim and the dark cloths
Of night and light and the half-light.’
How often do we look up to the sky and take account of its stars and clouds its changing colours? From the very beginning of the Old Testament, there are stories of God acting through nature - from the pillars of cloud and fire that guided the Israelites out of Egypt, to the parting of the Red Sea. Through the central events of the history of salvation, God has been there to guide his people to freedom.
In today’s Gospel it is the star that leads the Wise Men to Jesus. ‘We saw his star as it rose and have come to do him homage,’ they say. When the star halts over where Jesus is, it fills them with delight. They fall to their knees before him, offering up their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
The hero of Yeats’ poem has no such gifts to offer, not ‘the heavens’ embroidered cloths’ nor the elaborate riches of kings; he has only his dreams. ‘But I, being poor, have only my dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet. Tread softly, because you tread on my dreams.’
Triona Doherty
Questions People Ask
Q. Why is the eagle chosen as a symbol for the Gospel of John?
A. The eagle soars high above the earth and John soars high in reflecting on the incarnation. Furthermore, the eagle is reputed to be the only creature that can look directly into the light of the sun without damaging its eyes. The Gospel of John looks into the inner life of the Blessed Trinity. The blinding light of God’s glory is filtered fro our eyes thought he humanity of Jesus. ‘No one has ever seen God; it it the only Son, who is nearest the Father’s heart, who has made him known.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM
Bank Holiday Mass Times
There will be no 9.30am Mass at St. Patrick’s Church and no 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on Monday. Morning Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am. Schedule returns to usual pattern on Tuesday.
Adoration of Blessed Sacrament
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament continues at St. Fiacre’s Church from 11am to 10.00pm on Monday, 3rd January and in St. Patrick’s Church from 10am to 1pm and 4pm to 9pm Friday, 7th January. All welcome.
St. Patrick’s Parish Centre
The Parish Centre, Parish Shop and the Parish Office reopen for business at 9.00am on Tuesday morning.
The Epiphany
Thursday is the feast of the Epiphany of the Lord. It is a holyday of obligation. Vigil Masses will be celebrated on Wednesday evening and Masses on Thursday will follow the usual Sunday timetable.
First Friday of January
The first Friday of January occurs this week. The priests will visit the sick and housebound as usual.
Thanks for your Help
We would like to say a word of sincere thanks to all who helped with the liturgies during the Christmas Season. Much happened in our parish and we celebrated some wonderful well-attended liturgies. Thanks to all who helped. This is also an appropriate time to say thanks to all who help in our parish in any way during the year. We are always grateful to those who play their part in making this a vibrant and caring parish.
St. Patrick’s Parish Calendars
We are delighted to offer parish calendars again this year. Calendars may be picked up at the back of all our parish churches. Please feel free to take a few and pass them on to friends.
Pray for our Deceased FriendsRecently Deceased: Mary Costello, “The White House”, Wallslough. Funeral prayers at her home at 5.00pm on Sunday followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church. Requiem Mass at 12.00 noon on Monday followed by burial at Foulkstown Cemetery. Rosary at her home at 9.00pm on Saturday. Patrick Kennedy, Kilmanagh. Angela Davis, Clara.
Anniversaries: Billy & Anastasia Hickey (Sat 6.15), Denis O’Shea (Sat 7.00), Doris Americas (Birthday Remembrance Sun 9.30), Maura Nolan (Sun 10.00), Jack, Peg & Breda Molloy (Sun 10.30), Philomena Brennan (Sun 11.00), Michael Kenny & John Condon (Sun 12.00), Catherine Dunphy (Sun 12.30), Peg Larkin (Wed 10.30), Rose Leahy & Christina Leahy (Wed 6.15), John O’Gara, Agnes & Robert Brannigan, Tom Purcell, Margaret Maher, Maurice Maher, Sean Fitzpatrick, Mary Fitzpatrick, Michael Kelly
Mass Intentions Next Weekend: Maura Molloy (Sat 6.15), Teresa Nolan (Sat 7.00), Liam Costello (Sun 10.00), Christina Walsh (Months Mind Sun 10.30), Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00), Teresa Walsh (Sun 12.00), Sean Devane (Sun 12.30).
Choirs in our Parish
We are blessed to have a number of excellent choirs in our parish - some weekends we can have music and singing at seven of our nine Masses. You may have had your hearts lifted by the music and song at our liturgies over the Christmas Season. The choirs are always looking for new members. If this could be one of your New Year’s resolutions why not speak to a choir member after Mass or call the Parish Office during the week. We would love to hear from you.
Monthly GAA E-Newsletter
James Stephens GAA has recently launched a new monthly e-newsletter which will be sent by e-mail to all players, selectors, members and supporters of the Village in St. Patrick’s Parish and abroad. If you wish to be included on the e-mail circulation list please send your e-mail address to news@james-stephens.com
Pope’s Message for New Year
“At the beginning of the new year I offer good wishes to each and all for serenity and prosperity, but especially for peace. Sadly, the year now ending has again been marked by persecution, discrimination, terrible acts of violence and religious intolerance…”
In his message for World Day for Peace (1st January 2011) Pope Benedict goes on the say that Christians across the world are persecuted more than any other group because of their faith. In a year that saw deadly attacks on Christians across the region the Pope has used his message to plead for tolerance and peace in the Middle East.
Referring to a recent bombing at a Church in Iraq that left dozens of Catholics dead the Pope praised the Catholic communities in Iraq and throughout the Middle East who “continue to offer a courageous witness of faith in those lands”.
Underlining the need for tolerance and religious freedom the Pope said: “It is painful to think that in some areas of the world it is impossible to profess one’s religion freely except at the risk of life and personal liberty”.
The full text of Pope Benedict’s message is on our diocesan website: www.ossory.ie
Are you Registered in our Parish?
The Parish Team Leader is obliged to keep the parish records as up to date as possible. We need accurate figures for planning and budgeting and we are levied by the diocese according to the numbers of registered parishioners. It is to our benefit to record the numbers as accurately as possible. Please contact the Parish Office if you feel your family is not registered and we will put matters right for you without delay. Thanks.
Monthly Rosary
The monthly rosary on the first Sunday of the month in James Green at the Statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny continues on this Sunday, 2nd January at 3.00pm. All are welcome to come along and implore Our Blessed Mother’s help for the New Year.
Statistics from Our Parish 2010
According to the records for 2010 held in St. Patrick’s Parish:
131 people were baptised in our parish
100 people received the Sacrament of Confirmation
43 couples celebrated the Sacrament of Marriage in our parish churches
41 persons had their funeral rites in our parish churches.
We pray God’s blessing on all of them.
Notices for the Newsletter
Space allowing, we endeavour to publish all notices of interest to parishioners and members of the wider community. Needless to say such notices must respect our Catholic ethos. Please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400 or stpatricksparish@ossory.ie if you would like to have a notice included. Please let us have notices as early as possible but certainly by the Thursday before publication and include a contact number (not necessarily for publication) so that we can contact you for any clarifications.
Requests for inclusion in our parish anniversary lists should also be sent in as early as possible.
Christmas Cribs
The Christmas cribs will be enhanced this week with the arrival of the Three Wise Men. Why not join them in prayer and reflection?
Saint Francis of Assisi is credited with creating the first nativity scene in 1223 (a “living” one) intending thereby to cultivate the worship of Christ, having been inspired by his recent visit to the Holy Land where he had been shown Jesus’ traditional birthplace. The scene's popularity inspired communities throughout Christendom to stage similar pantomimes; eventually, the Nativity scene, with its message of birth and hope for the world, became an archetype in Western culture, inspiring an infinite number of works of high and popular art. More and more elaborate static exhibitions were created with wax and ivory figurines garbed in rich fabrics set against intricate landscapes. These elaborate cribs reached their climax in the Kingdom of Naples in the 16th to 18th centuries. Elsewhere, the emphasis was on realism and in a sense of intimacy, beauty and warmth, to draw the viewer into the message of humanity and hope symbolised by the Christmas story.
In his poem ‘He Wishes for the cloths of Heaven’, WB Yeats describes the skies as ‘the heavens’ embroidered cloths’;
‘Had I the heavens’ embroidered cloths,
Enwrought with golden and silver light,
The blue and the dim and the dark cloths
Of night and light and the half-light.’
How often do we look up to the sky and take account of its stars and clouds its changing colours? From the very beginning of the Old Testament, there are stories of God acting through nature - from the pillars of cloud and fire that guided the Israelites out of Egypt, to the parting of the Red Sea. Through the central events of the history of salvation, God has been there to guide his people to freedom.
In today’s Gospel it is the star that leads the Wise Men to Jesus. ‘We saw his star as it rose and have come to do him homage,’ they say. When the star halts over where Jesus is, it fills them with delight. They fall to their knees before him, offering up their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
The hero of Yeats’ poem has no such gifts to offer, not ‘the heavens’ embroidered cloths’ nor the elaborate riches of kings; he has only his dreams. ‘But I, being poor, have only my dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet. Tread softly, because you tread on my dreams.’
Triona Doherty
Questions People Ask
Q. Why is the eagle chosen as a symbol for the Gospel of John?
A. The eagle soars high above the earth and John soars high in reflecting on the incarnation. Furthermore, the eagle is reputed to be the only creature that can look directly into the light of the sun without damaging its eyes. The Gospel of John looks into the inner life of the Blessed Trinity. The blinding light of God’s glory is filtered fro our eyes thought he humanity of Jesus. ‘No one has ever seen God; it it the only Son, who is nearest the Father’s heart, who has made him known.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM
Bank Holiday Mass Times
There will be no 9.30am Mass at St. Patrick’s Church and no 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on Monday. Morning Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am. Schedule returns to usual pattern on Tuesday.
Adoration of Blessed Sacrament
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament continues at St. Fiacre’s Church from 11am to 10.00pm on Monday, 3rd January and in St. Patrick’s Church from 10am to 1pm and 4pm to 9pm Friday, 7th January. All welcome.
St. Patrick’s Parish Centre
The Parish Centre, Parish Shop and the Parish Office reopen for business at 9.00am on Tuesday morning.
The Epiphany
Thursday is the feast of the Epiphany of the Lord. It is a holyday of obligation. Vigil Masses will be celebrated on Wednesday evening and Masses on Thursday will follow the usual Sunday timetable.
First Friday of January
The first Friday of January occurs this week. The priests will visit the sick and housebound as usual.
Thanks for your Help
We would like to say a word of sincere thanks to all who helped with the liturgies during the Christmas Season. Much happened in our parish and we celebrated some wonderful well-attended liturgies. Thanks to all who helped. This is also an appropriate time to say thanks to all who help in our parish in any way during the year. We are always grateful to those who play their part in making this a vibrant and caring parish.
St. Patrick’s Parish Calendars
We are delighted to offer parish calendars again this year. Calendars may be picked up at the back of all our parish churches. Please feel free to take a few and pass them on to friends.
Pray for our Deceased FriendsRecently Deceased: Mary Costello, “The White House”, Wallslough. Funeral prayers at her home at 5.00pm on Sunday followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church. Requiem Mass at 12.00 noon on Monday followed by burial at Foulkstown Cemetery. Rosary at her home at 9.00pm on Saturday. Patrick Kennedy, Kilmanagh. Angela Davis, Clara.
Anniversaries: Billy & Anastasia Hickey (Sat 6.15), Denis O’Shea (Sat 7.00), Doris Americas (Birthday Remembrance Sun 9.30), Maura Nolan (Sun 10.00), Jack, Peg & Breda Molloy (Sun 10.30), Philomena Brennan (Sun 11.00), Michael Kenny & John Condon (Sun 12.00), Catherine Dunphy (Sun 12.30), Peg Larkin (Wed 10.30), Rose Leahy & Christina Leahy (Wed 6.15), John O’Gara, Agnes & Robert Brannigan, Tom Purcell, Margaret Maher, Maurice Maher, Sean Fitzpatrick, Mary Fitzpatrick, Michael Kelly
Mass Intentions Next Weekend: Maura Molloy (Sat 6.15), Teresa Nolan (Sat 7.00), Liam Costello (Sun 10.00), Christina Walsh (Months Mind Sun 10.30), Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00), Teresa Walsh (Sun 12.00), Sean Devane (Sun 12.30).
Choirs in our Parish
We are blessed to have a number of excellent choirs in our parish - some weekends we can have music and singing at seven of our nine Masses. You may have had your hearts lifted by the music and song at our liturgies over the Christmas Season. The choirs are always looking for new members. If this could be one of your New Year’s resolutions why not speak to a choir member after Mass or call the Parish Office during the week. We would love to hear from you.
Monthly GAA E-Newsletter
James Stephens GAA has recently launched a new monthly e-newsletter which will be sent by e-mail to all players, selectors, members and supporters of the Village in St. Patrick’s Parish and abroad. If you wish to be included on the e-mail circulation list please send your e-mail address to news@james-stephens.com
Pope’s Message for New Year
“At the beginning of the new year I offer good wishes to each and all for serenity and prosperity, but especially for peace. Sadly, the year now ending has again been marked by persecution, discrimination, terrible acts of violence and religious intolerance…”
In his message for World Day for Peace (1st January 2011) Pope Benedict goes on the say that Christians across the world are persecuted more than any other group because of their faith. In a year that saw deadly attacks on Christians across the region the Pope has used his message to plead for tolerance and peace in the Middle East.
Referring to a recent bombing at a Church in Iraq that left dozens of Catholics dead the Pope praised the Catholic communities in Iraq and throughout the Middle East who “continue to offer a courageous witness of faith in those lands”.
Underlining the need for tolerance and religious freedom the Pope said: “It is painful to think that in some areas of the world it is impossible to profess one’s religion freely except at the risk of life and personal liberty”.
The full text of Pope Benedict’s message is on our diocesan website: www.ossory.ie
Are you Registered in our Parish?
The Parish Team Leader is obliged to keep the parish records as up to date as possible. We need accurate figures for planning and budgeting and we are levied by the diocese according to the numbers of registered parishioners. It is to our benefit to record the numbers as accurately as possible. Please contact the Parish Office if you feel your family is not registered and we will put matters right for you without delay. Thanks.
Monthly Rosary
The monthly rosary on the first Sunday of the month in James Green at the Statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny continues on this Sunday, 2nd January at 3.00pm. All are welcome to come along and implore Our Blessed Mother’s help for the New Year.
Statistics from Our Parish 2010
According to the records for 2010 held in St. Patrick’s Parish:
131 people were baptised in our parish
100 people received the Sacrament of Confirmation
43 couples celebrated the Sacrament of Marriage in our parish churches
41 persons had their funeral rites in our parish churches.
We pray God’s blessing on all of them.
Notices for the Newsletter
Space allowing, we endeavour to publish all notices of interest to parishioners and members of the wider community. Needless to say such notices must respect our Catholic ethos. Please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400 or stpatricksparish@ossory.ie if you would like to have a notice included. Please let us have notices as early as possible but certainly by the Thursday before publication and include a contact number (not necessarily for publication) so that we can contact you for any clarifications.
Requests for inclusion in our parish anniversary lists should also be sent in as early as possible.
Christmas Cribs
The Christmas cribs will be enhanced this week with the arrival of the Three Wise Men. Why not join them in prayer and reflection?
Saint Francis of Assisi is credited with creating the first nativity scene in 1223 (a “living” one) intending thereby to cultivate the worship of Christ, having been inspired by his recent visit to the Holy Land where he had been shown Jesus’ traditional birthplace. The scene's popularity inspired communities throughout Christendom to stage similar pantomimes; eventually, the Nativity scene, with its message of birth and hope for the world, became an archetype in Western culture, inspiring an infinite number of works of high and popular art. More and more elaborate static exhibitions were created with wax and ivory figurines garbed in rich fabrics set against intricate landscapes. These elaborate cribs reached their climax in the Kingdom of Naples in the 16th to 18th centuries. Elsewhere, the emphasis was on realism and in a sense of intimacy, beauty and warmth, to draw the viewer into the message of humanity and hope symbolised by the Christmas story.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Feast of the Holy Family, 26th December 2010
Happy Christmas
Frs. Dan, Roderick and Liam join in wishing all associated with St. Patrick’s Parish a holy, peaceful and happy Christmas. May God to bless and protect us in this holy season. May all travellers be safe and may patience and Christian love and goodwill mark this holiday time.
We take this opportunity to thank everyone who help out in any way to make this wonderful parish function so well. We won’t name names, because there are so many people who help in prayer, action and support. People help out so quietly and generously that all runs so smoothly. To everyone, we offer a sincere and heartfelt thank you.
We also say thanks to all for your generous support this Christmas and indeed throughout the year. We appreciate your prayers, kind words and material support. We pray that the New Year will be filled with every grace and blessing for you.
We hope those who join us for Christmas - either as visitors or former parishioners returning for the festivities - will have a wonderful time among us.
Mass Schedule in the Parish
Our parish Mass schedule for Christmas Day follows the usual Sunday pattern (See front of this newsletter).
There will be no Saturday evening vigil Masses on Christmas Day. Masses on Sunday are at the usual times.
There will be but one public Mass in our parish each day during the week after Christmas: St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am each morning.
Parish Office
The Parish Office will be closed all next week. However, if you need to contact one of the priests or conduct parish business you may call 056 776 4400 and follow the computerised prompts. If the person you require is not available immediately you may be invited to leave a message.
In urgent cases you can contact the priest on duty by dialling 056 776 4400 and pressing Option 2.
Clothed for Christ
How often do we judge people by what they wear? In recent times teenagers wearing hoodies have been banned from shopping centres out of fear they will steal or cause bother to other shoppers. Others mark themselves out by the clothes they wear, for example ‘Goths’ who wear black, football fans who dress in the colours of their favourite team, or those who wore orange in 2004 in protest to what they saw as the unfair running of the Ukrainian elections.
In today’s Second Reading St. Paul speaks about Christian fashion. The clothes of the Christian are not dictated by the latest fashion trends. No, what Christian should wear never changes: ‘you should be clothed in sincere compassion, in kindness and humility, gentleness and patience, and even that is not enough, ‘over all these clothes, to keep them together and complete them, put on love’ (Col 3:12, 14). It is not the outer garments which are the garb of Christians. It is the way we act towards our brothers and sisters that defines who we are. By clothing ourselves in the values of Christ we can go out into the world confident that we are dressed appropriately to meet any situation.
Francis Cousins.
Bishop’s Christmas Message
Bishop Freeman’s Christmas message to the people of the Diocese of Ossory is available on the diocesan website: www.ossory.ie
Questions People Ask
Q. Was it foretold in the Old Testament that the messiah would live in Nazareth?
A. It wasn’t foretold. In fact Nazareth is never mentioned in the Old Testament. It was a good place for Joseph to get a job as it was close to the new town of Sephoris which Herod was constructing. The Gospel of Matthew has an outrageous pun on the word nazir which means somebody consecrated to God. People were so gobsmacked at the notion that the Messiah might come from Nazareth that it was remarked, ‘Can anything good come from Nazareth.’
Fr. Silvester Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Sammy Johnston, Hebron Road. Joozef Kolodzief, Poland. Ned Nugent, Cuffesgrange. John Walton, Tullaroan. Fr. Stephen Hawe, Australia (Sat 9.30).
Anniversaries: Jim & Bernie Cadogan (Sat 10.30), Betty Furniss (Sun 9.30), Thomas Drohan (Sun 10.00), Josephine McGrath (Sun 10.30), Vale Vaikutiene (Sun 11.00), Geraldine Cody (Sun 12.00), Eddie Taylor & Delia Taylor (Sun 12.30), James Kearney (Tues. 11.00), Jim King (Wed 11.00), Nick Dunphy (Sun 11.00), John & Mary Rhatigan, Peggy Blanchfield, Roseanna Smyth, Nora Bartholomew, Ted Kenny, Francis, Samuel, James & Margaret Dunlop, Michael & Bridget Kenny, Tom & Bridget Casey, John Condon, Ted Carroll, Liam Costello, Christy Bateman, Kathleen Fahey, Martin Doheny, Mary Doheny, Martin Browne, Peg Browne, Brendan Doheny,
Christmas Thanks
Sincere thanks to all who are helping to make our Christmas celebrations more meaningful and prayerful. We are grateful to all in our choirs, sacristies, those who read and distribute the Eucharist, those who collect and who clean; sometimes thankless tasks but we are grateful. Thanks too to all help run and maintain our Parish Centre.
Fundraising Bag Pack
Thanks to the many volunteers who raised invaluable funds for the parish by bag packing at Supervalu on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday of last week. The amount raised was €4,605. Many thanks to the Supervalu Management Team, the coordinators and all who gave freely of their time to help.
Trócaire Says Thanks
Trócaire has expressed sincere thanks to everyone in the parish and throughout the diocese for their support in 2010 - not just during their Christmas Global Gift campaign but during Lent and following the recent disasters in Haiti and Pakistan. Trócaire wishes you and your families a happy and peaceful new year.
Exposition of Blessed Sacrament
Being Christmas week where most of our adorers will be spending time with family, there will be no exposition in St. Fiacre’s on Monday. Neither will there be exposition on Friday next. Exposition will recommence in the New Year. Thanks to all who dedicate time to adoring the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.
Christmas Collection for Priests
Thanks to all who supported our Christmas collection for the priests of the parish and the bishop. We are extremely grateful to all who continue to support us especially in these tough economic times.
Parish Calendars
We are delighted to offer parish calendars again this year. Calendars may be picked up at the back of all our parish churches. Thanks to Paula Raggett at Kilkenny Cards for the design and printing of this year’s calendar.
Monthly E-Newsletter
James Stephens GAA has recently launched a new monthly e-newsletter which will be sent by e-mail to all players, selectors, members and supporters of the Village in St.Patrick’s parish and abroad. This e-newsletter will be a strong and informative communications tool for the club to keep everybody up to date on all games, reports, events, news, club development and issues relating to the club. If you wish to be included on the e-mail circulation list please send your e-mail address to news@james-stephens.com
The Carer’s Association
The Carer’s Association will hold a Church Gate Collection on Saturday, 1st January and Sunday, 2nd January 2011. We are appealing to people in the various parishes in Kilkenny to assist us by manning the table before and after Mass. Any time you can give is appreciated. Funds raised go towards providing respite, training, day trips and other supports and services in the locality of local Family Carers. Please call Gina or Carmel on 056 772 1424.
Frs. Dan, Roderick and Liam join in wishing all associated with St. Patrick’s Parish a holy, peaceful and happy Christmas. May God to bless and protect us in this holy season. May all travellers be safe and may patience and Christian love and goodwill mark this holiday time.
We take this opportunity to thank everyone who help out in any way to make this wonderful parish function so well. We won’t name names, because there are so many people who help in prayer, action and support. People help out so quietly and generously that all runs so smoothly. To everyone, we offer a sincere and heartfelt thank you.
We also say thanks to all for your generous support this Christmas and indeed throughout the year. We appreciate your prayers, kind words and material support. We pray that the New Year will be filled with every grace and blessing for you.
We hope those who join us for Christmas - either as visitors or former parishioners returning for the festivities - will have a wonderful time among us.
Mass Schedule in the Parish
Our parish Mass schedule for Christmas Day follows the usual Sunday pattern (See front of this newsletter).
There will be no Saturday evening vigil Masses on Christmas Day. Masses on Sunday are at the usual times.
There will be but one public Mass in our parish each day during the week after Christmas: St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am each morning.
Parish Office
The Parish Office will be closed all next week. However, if you need to contact one of the priests or conduct parish business you may call 056 776 4400 and follow the computerised prompts. If the person you require is not available immediately you may be invited to leave a message.
In urgent cases you can contact the priest on duty by dialling 056 776 4400 and pressing Option 2.
Clothed for Christ
How often do we judge people by what they wear? In recent times teenagers wearing hoodies have been banned from shopping centres out of fear they will steal or cause bother to other shoppers. Others mark themselves out by the clothes they wear, for example ‘Goths’ who wear black, football fans who dress in the colours of their favourite team, or those who wore orange in 2004 in protest to what they saw as the unfair running of the Ukrainian elections.
In today’s Second Reading St. Paul speaks about Christian fashion. The clothes of the Christian are not dictated by the latest fashion trends. No, what Christian should wear never changes: ‘you should be clothed in sincere compassion, in kindness and humility, gentleness and patience, and even that is not enough, ‘over all these clothes, to keep them together and complete them, put on love’ (Col 3:12, 14). It is not the outer garments which are the garb of Christians. It is the way we act towards our brothers and sisters that defines who we are. By clothing ourselves in the values of Christ we can go out into the world confident that we are dressed appropriately to meet any situation.
Francis Cousins.
Bishop’s Christmas Message
Bishop Freeman’s Christmas message to the people of the Diocese of Ossory is available on the diocesan website: www.ossory.ie
Questions People Ask
Q. Was it foretold in the Old Testament that the messiah would live in Nazareth?
A. It wasn’t foretold. In fact Nazareth is never mentioned in the Old Testament. It was a good place for Joseph to get a job as it was close to the new town of Sephoris which Herod was constructing. The Gospel of Matthew has an outrageous pun on the word nazir which means somebody consecrated to God. People were so gobsmacked at the notion that the Messiah might come from Nazareth that it was remarked, ‘Can anything good come from Nazareth.’
Fr. Silvester Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Sammy Johnston, Hebron Road. Joozef Kolodzief, Poland. Ned Nugent, Cuffesgrange. John Walton, Tullaroan. Fr. Stephen Hawe, Australia (Sat 9.30).
Anniversaries: Jim & Bernie Cadogan (Sat 10.30), Betty Furniss (Sun 9.30), Thomas Drohan (Sun 10.00), Josephine McGrath (Sun 10.30), Vale Vaikutiene (Sun 11.00), Geraldine Cody (Sun 12.00), Eddie Taylor & Delia Taylor (Sun 12.30), James Kearney (Tues. 11.00), Jim King (Wed 11.00), Nick Dunphy (Sun 11.00), John & Mary Rhatigan, Peggy Blanchfield, Roseanna Smyth, Nora Bartholomew, Ted Kenny, Francis, Samuel, James & Margaret Dunlop, Michael & Bridget Kenny, Tom & Bridget Casey, John Condon, Ted Carroll, Liam Costello, Christy Bateman, Kathleen Fahey, Martin Doheny, Mary Doheny, Martin Browne, Peg Browne, Brendan Doheny,
Christmas Thanks
Sincere thanks to all who are helping to make our Christmas celebrations more meaningful and prayerful. We are grateful to all in our choirs, sacristies, those who read and distribute the Eucharist, those who collect and who clean; sometimes thankless tasks but we are grateful. Thanks too to all help run and maintain our Parish Centre.
Fundraising Bag Pack
Thanks to the many volunteers who raised invaluable funds for the parish by bag packing at Supervalu on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday of last week. The amount raised was €4,605. Many thanks to the Supervalu Management Team, the coordinators and all who gave freely of their time to help.
Trócaire Says Thanks
Trócaire has expressed sincere thanks to everyone in the parish and throughout the diocese for their support in 2010 - not just during their Christmas Global Gift campaign but during Lent and following the recent disasters in Haiti and Pakistan. Trócaire wishes you and your families a happy and peaceful new year.
Exposition of Blessed Sacrament
Being Christmas week where most of our adorers will be spending time with family, there will be no exposition in St. Fiacre’s on Monday. Neither will there be exposition on Friday next. Exposition will recommence in the New Year. Thanks to all who dedicate time to adoring the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.
Christmas Collection for Priests
Thanks to all who supported our Christmas collection for the priests of the parish and the bishop. We are extremely grateful to all who continue to support us especially in these tough economic times.
Parish Calendars
We are delighted to offer parish calendars again this year. Calendars may be picked up at the back of all our parish churches. Thanks to Paula Raggett at Kilkenny Cards for the design and printing of this year’s calendar.
Monthly E-Newsletter
James Stephens GAA has recently launched a new monthly e-newsletter which will be sent by e-mail to all players, selectors, members and supporters of the Village in St.Patrick’s parish and abroad. This e-newsletter will be a strong and informative communications tool for the club to keep everybody up to date on all games, reports, events, news, club development and issues relating to the club. If you wish to be included on the e-mail circulation list please send your e-mail address to news@james-stephens.com
The Carer’s Association
The Carer’s Association will hold a Church Gate Collection on Saturday, 1st January and Sunday, 2nd January 2011. We are appealing to people in the various parishes in Kilkenny to assist us by manning the table before and after Mass. Any time you can give is appreciated. Funds raised go towards providing respite, training, day trips and other supports and services in the locality of local Family Carers. Please call Gina or Carmel on 056 772 1424.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Fourth Sunday of Advent, 19th December
Parish Christmas Programme
Next Saturday is Christmas Day. The following parish Mass schedule will apply.
St. Fiacre’s Church:
Christmas Eve: Vigil Mass at 9.00pm
Christmas Day: Mass of Midnight (Latin) 10.30am, 12.00 noon
St. Patrick’s Church:
Christmas Day: Midnight Mass
9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm
St. Joseph’s Church:
Christmas Day: 10.00am
Please note there will not be evening Vigil Masses on Saturday, 25th December (Christmas Day).
Masses on Sunday, 26th December will follow the usual Sunday Mass schedule.
During the week after Christmas the only public Mass in our parish will be at St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am each day.
Come and celebrate the birth of our Saviour.
Christmas Penitential Service
The St. Patrick’s Parish Christmas Penitential Service will be held at St. Patrick’s Church at 7.30pm on Monday, 20th December. Visiting priests will attend. Please use this opportunity to prepare for Christmas.
Midnight Mass Choirs
Practice for all choirs involved in Midnight Mass will take place on Wednesday 22nd December at 7.30pm in St. Patrick’s Church.
Parish Centre
The St. Patrick’s Parish Centre will be closed for the Christmas Holidays from Thursday, 23rd December and will reopen on Tuesday, 4th January.
St. Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band
Don’t forget the Annual Christmas Concert in St. Patrick’s Church on Tuesday, 21st December at 8pm. A great evening’s entertainment is promised. Guests include: Audrey Larkin, Kevin O’Dwyer, Rory Broderick, Billy Carrigan & Friends, Jimmy Larkin, Eugene Dewberry. MC: Noel Power.
Emmanuel
In both the First Reading and the Gospel we hear the name of the son to be born of a virgin – Emmanuel, which means ‘God-is-with-us’. Throughout the history of Judaism the people of Israel felt a special relationship with the Lord. They were unique among ancient civilisations in having on God who created the heavens and the earth and most importantly freed the people of Israel from slavery in Egypt before leading them to the Promised Land. The relationship between the Lord and his people was sealed in the Sinai covenant , also known as the Ten Commandments. Such was the link between people and God that the divine presence was held to reside in the Ark of the Covenant and later in the Holy of Holies in the Temple at Jerusalem. The birth of Jesus takes things a step further. Jesus is the very incarnation of God, having taken on human form and lived as one of us. This divine presence does not end with the death of Jesus. Rather in the last verse of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells us, ‘ I am with us always, to the end of time’ (Matt 28:20). This is the God we are preparing to welcome this Christmas, the one who remains with us no matter what.
Francis Cousins
SVP Annual Appeal
Thanks to all who contributed to last weekend’s annual Christmas collection for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Thanks also to those businesses, groups and individuals who made private contributions. SVP continues to help individuals and families in the area who are struggling to cope, often to ensure that there is light in the home and food on the table.
The members of the Society meet at the Parish Centre on Monday evenings from 8.00pm. In urgent cases the member on duty may be contacted on 087 681 0589.
Fundraising Bag Pack
Thanks to all who helped with bag pack at Caulfield’s Supervalu over the past few days. We appreciate your time given to the parish. Money raised will help defray the parish debt.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Sean Hennessey, Castlecomer Road,
Months Mind: John Seaver (Wed 10.30)Anniversaries: Elizabeth Comerford (Sat 6.15), Christopher & Mary Coogan (Sat 7.00), John Carroll (Sun 9.30), Joe & Nan Mulhall (Sun 10.00), Patricia Fitzpatrick (Sun 10.30), George Byrne (Sun 11.00), Dick Lynch (Sun 12.00), Mary Blanchfield (Sun 12.30), Susan Daly, Anthony Gorski and Michael Kenny (Mon 9.30), Thomas Saunders (Tues 10.30), Tommy Clooney, Kitty Clooney & Margaret Fox (Wed 9.30), May & Felix Campbell (Thurs 9.30), Margaret & Paddy Cantwell (Thurs 10.30), Paddy & Lar Carroll (Fri 10.30), Phyllis Doran, Jimmy Bergin, Eric & Mary McGrath., Peggy Quinlan, Richard & Maureen Free, Mick & Bess Delaney, Jim Dollard, Mary O’Neill, Ann Holohan, Richard Gaule.
Intentions Next Weekend: Betty Furniss (9.30), Thomas Doran (10.00), Josephine McGrath (10.30), Vale Vaikutiene (11.00), Geraldine Cody (12.00), Eddie Taylor & Delia Taylor (12.30).
Christmas Concert
Each Easter the Irish Pilgrimage Trust brings young people with special needs to Lourdes. Fr. Dan is chaplain to Group 174 which is Kilkenny based. 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 the cost Group 174 presents a concert at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on this Sunday, 19th December at 3.30pm. Artistes include: D-force, Nicky McCullagh, Tom Bolger, Noel Power, Trish Carroll, Jimmy Byrne, Peter Prendergast and the St. Fiacre’s Church Choir. A wonderful afternoon of Christmas and contemporary music is promised. Get in the mood for Christmas while helping to send a young person with special needs to Lourdes next Easter. Tickets: €5 at the door.
Weekly Envelope Collection
The envelope collection last week amounted to €1,510.00. Sincere thanks to all who continue to support our parish and its priests.
Eucharistic Adoration
There will be no adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in St. Patrick’s Church on Friday, 24th December (Christmas Eve). Thank you to the many parishioners who regularly spend time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament.
Christmas Midnight Mass in Latin
The members of the Society of St. Oliver Plunkett who organise the Mass in the ‘Usus Antiquior’ in St. Patrick’s Church at 5.00pm on Sunday afternoons, has organised Christmas Midnight Mass in Latin at St. Fiacre’s Church at midnight on Christmas Eve. Further information: http:societyofstoliverplunkett.blogspot.com/
Questions People Ask
Q. I’ve struggled for years with an addiction. I keep on falling. Is there any hope for me?
A. There is always hope for the simple reason that God’s love for you never ceases, no matter how often you fall. God’s help comes in many ways such as medical help, addiction counselling, prayer, pilgrimage to a holy place and especially through the understanding and support of fellow strugglers in an addiction fellowship. Advent is the season of hope. Come, Lord Jesus, into our desert areas and places of darkness.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Toastmasters
Do butterflies attack your stomach whenever you’re asked to speak before a group? Have you a wedding coming up? Are you the father of the bride, the bestman or the groom? If so, Toastmasters can help. Visit your local Toastmasters Club and begin improving your communication skills today. For information: 085 810 8790 or kilkennytoastmasters@gmail.com.
Keep Christ in Christmas
There is still time to visit our parish shop before Christmas. There you will find a range of Advent calendars, candles, cribs, Christmas candles, children’s Christmas books and religious gifts. Come in a browse during the next few days and select items with a Christian theme for Christmas. Shop closes for the holidays on Thursday.
Why Not Study Theology
The Dominicans are offering a programme of theology, leading up to a degree (BTh) in the distance learning format. People are enabled to study from home, with occasional study days, and with the on-line support of tutors. Already hundreds have completed the programme to some level, and in November 2010, there were 37 who received their full degree. Maybe you’d like to know more? Contact us at: The Priory Institute, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24 Tel: 01 404 8124 or 01 404 8127. Send an email to: enquiries@prioryinstitute.com
Parish Office
The Parish Office will close for the Christmas Holidays on Wednesday, 22nd December and reopen on Tuesday, 4th January. Happy Christmas to all!
Loughboy Library
The Loughboy Library will close at 2pm on Thursday, 23rd December and will re-open at 1.00pm on Thursday, 30th December. Also closing at 5pm on Friday, 31st December (New Year’s Eve).
Next Saturday is Christmas Day. The following parish Mass schedule will apply.
St. Fiacre’s Church:
Christmas Eve: Vigil Mass at 9.00pm
Christmas Day: Mass of Midnight (Latin) 10.30am, 12.00 noon
St. Patrick’s Church:
Christmas Day: Midnight Mass
9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm
St. Joseph’s Church:
Christmas Day: 10.00am
Please note there will not be evening Vigil Masses on Saturday, 25th December (Christmas Day).
Masses on Sunday, 26th December will follow the usual Sunday Mass schedule.
During the week after Christmas the only public Mass in our parish will be at St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am each day.
Come and celebrate the birth of our Saviour.
Christmas Penitential Service
The St. Patrick’s Parish Christmas Penitential Service will be held at St. Patrick’s Church at 7.30pm on Monday, 20th December. Visiting priests will attend. Please use this opportunity to prepare for Christmas.
Midnight Mass Choirs
Practice for all choirs involved in Midnight Mass will take place on Wednesday 22nd December at 7.30pm in St. Patrick’s Church.
Parish Centre
The St. Patrick’s Parish Centre will be closed for the Christmas Holidays from Thursday, 23rd December and will reopen on Tuesday, 4th January.
St. Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band
Don’t forget the Annual Christmas Concert in St. Patrick’s Church on Tuesday, 21st December at 8pm. A great evening’s entertainment is promised. Guests include: Audrey Larkin, Kevin O’Dwyer, Rory Broderick, Billy Carrigan & Friends, Jimmy Larkin, Eugene Dewberry. MC: Noel Power.
Emmanuel
In both the First Reading and the Gospel we hear the name of the son to be born of a virgin – Emmanuel, which means ‘God-is-with-us’. Throughout the history of Judaism the people of Israel felt a special relationship with the Lord. They were unique among ancient civilisations in having on God who created the heavens and the earth and most importantly freed the people of Israel from slavery in Egypt before leading them to the Promised Land. The relationship between the Lord and his people was sealed in the Sinai covenant , also known as the Ten Commandments. Such was the link between people and God that the divine presence was held to reside in the Ark of the Covenant and later in the Holy of Holies in the Temple at Jerusalem. The birth of Jesus takes things a step further. Jesus is the very incarnation of God, having taken on human form and lived as one of us. This divine presence does not end with the death of Jesus. Rather in the last verse of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells us, ‘ I am with us always, to the end of time’ (Matt 28:20). This is the God we are preparing to welcome this Christmas, the one who remains with us no matter what.
Francis Cousins
SVP Annual Appeal
Thanks to all who contributed to last weekend’s annual Christmas collection for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Thanks also to those businesses, groups and individuals who made private contributions. SVP continues to help individuals and families in the area who are struggling to cope, often to ensure that there is light in the home and food on the table.
The members of the Society meet at the Parish Centre on Monday evenings from 8.00pm. In urgent cases the member on duty may be contacted on 087 681 0589.
Fundraising Bag Pack
Thanks to all who helped with bag pack at Caulfield’s Supervalu over the past few days. We appreciate your time given to the parish. Money raised will help defray the parish debt.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Sean Hennessey, Castlecomer Road,
Months Mind: John Seaver (Wed 10.30)Anniversaries: Elizabeth Comerford (Sat 6.15), Christopher & Mary Coogan (Sat 7.00), John Carroll (Sun 9.30), Joe & Nan Mulhall (Sun 10.00), Patricia Fitzpatrick (Sun 10.30), George Byrne (Sun 11.00), Dick Lynch (Sun 12.00), Mary Blanchfield (Sun 12.30), Susan Daly, Anthony Gorski and Michael Kenny (Mon 9.30), Thomas Saunders (Tues 10.30), Tommy Clooney, Kitty Clooney & Margaret Fox (Wed 9.30), May & Felix Campbell (Thurs 9.30), Margaret & Paddy Cantwell (Thurs 10.30), Paddy & Lar Carroll (Fri 10.30), Phyllis Doran, Jimmy Bergin, Eric & Mary McGrath., Peggy Quinlan, Richard & Maureen Free, Mick & Bess Delaney, Jim Dollard, Mary O’Neill, Ann Holohan, Richard Gaule.
Intentions Next Weekend: Betty Furniss (9.30), Thomas Doran (10.00), Josephine McGrath (10.30), Vale Vaikutiene (11.00), Geraldine Cody (12.00), Eddie Taylor & Delia Taylor (12.30).
Christmas Concert
Each Easter the Irish Pilgrimage Trust brings young people with special needs to Lourdes. Fr. Dan is chaplain to Group 174 which is Kilkenny based. 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 the cost Group 174 presents a concert at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on this Sunday, 19th December at 3.30pm. Artistes include: D-force, Nicky McCullagh, Tom Bolger, Noel Power, Trish Carroll, Jimmy Byrne, Peter Prendergast and the St. Fiacre’s Church Choir. A wonderful afternoon of Christmas and contemporary music is promised. Get in the mood for Christmas while helping to send a young person with special needs to Lourdes next Easter. Tickets: €5 at the door.
Weekly Envelope Collection
The envelope collection last week amounted to €1,510.00. Sincere thanks to all who continue to support our parish and its priests.
Eucharistic Adoration
There will be no adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in St. Patrick’s Church on Friday, 24th December (Christmas Eve). Thank you to the many parishioners who regularly spend time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament.
Christmas Midnight Mass in Latin
The members of the Society of St. Oliver Plunkett who organise the Mass in the ‘Usus Antiquior’ in St. Patrick’s Church at 5.00pm on Sunday afternoons, has organised Christmas Midnight Mass in Latin at St. Fiacre’s Church at midnight on Christmas Eve. Further information: http:societyofstoliverplunkett.blogspot.com/
Questions People Ask
Q. I’ve struggled for years with an addiction. I keep on falling. Is there any hope for me?
A. There is always hope for the simple reason that God’s love for you never ceases, no matter how often you fall. God’s help comes in many ways such as medical help, addiction counselling, prayer, pilgrimage to a holy place and especially through the understanding and support of fellow strugglers in an addiction fellowship. Advent is the season of hope. Come, Lord Jesus, into our desert areas and places of darkness.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Toastmasters
Do butterflies attack your stomach whenever you’re asked to speak before a group? Have you a wedding coming up? Are you the father of the bride, the bestman or the groom? If so, Toastmasters can help. Visit your local Toastmasters Club and begin improving your communication skills today. For information: 085 810 8790 or kilkennytoastmasters@gmail.com.
Keep Christ in Christmas
There is still time to visit our parish shop before Christmas. There you will find a range of Advent calendars, candles, cribs, Christmas candles, children’s Christmas books and religious gifts. Come in a browse during the next few days and select items with a Christian theme for Christmas. Shop closes for the holidays on Thursday.
Why Not Study Theology
The Dominicans are offering a programme of theology, leading up to a degree (BTh) in the distance learning format. People are enabled to study from home, with occasional study days, and with the on-line support of tutors. Already hundreds have completed the programme to some level, and in November 2010, there were 37 who received their full degree. Maybe you’d like to know more? Contact us at: The Priory Institute, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24 Tel: 01 404 8124 or 01 404 8127. Send an email to: enquiries@prioryinstitute.com
Parish Office
The Parish Office will close for the Christmas Holidays on Wednesday, 22nd December and reopen on Tuesday, 4th January. Happy Christmas to all!
Loughboy Library
The Loughboy Library will close at 2pm on Thursday, 23rd December and will re-open at 1.00pm on Thursday, 30th December. Also closing at 5pm on Friday, 31st December (New Year’s Eve).
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Third Sunday of Advent, 12th December 2010
Annual Christmas Carol Service
The annual St. Patrick’s Parish Carol Service takes place on this Sunday, 12th December at 4pm in St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown. For many this has become a must-attend event in the lead up to Christmas and all are welcome. Seasonal refreshments will be served in the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre after the service.
Do This In Memory
We welcome the candidates for First Holy Communion and their families who have joined us for the Do This In Memory programme this weekend.
We continue to support the young people and their families as they prepare to celebrate the sacrament next year.
Parish Christmas Programme
Christmas Day falls on a Saturday this year. The following parish Mass schedule will apply.
St. Fiacre’s Church: Vigil Mass at 9.00pm
Mass of Midnight (Latin)
10.30am, 12.00 noon
St. Patrick’s Church: Midnight Mass
9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm
St. Joseph’s Church: 10.00am
Please note there will not be evening Vigil Masses on Saturday, 25th December (Christmas Day).
Masses on Sunday, 26th December will follow the usual Sunday Mass schedule.
During the week after Christmas the only public Mass in our parish will be at St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am each day.
Come and celebrate the birth of our Saviour.
Christmas Penitential Service
The St. Patrick’s Parish Christmas Penitential Service will be held at St. Patrick’s Church at 7.30pm on Monday, 20th December. Visiting priests will attend. Please use this opportunity to prepare for Christmas.
Weekly Envelope Collection
The envelope collection last week amounted to €1,545.00. Standing Order contributions during November came to €4,456.00. Thanks.
SVP Annual Appeal
The annual Christmas collection for the St. Patrick’s Parish Conference of the Society of St. Vincent De Paul takes place at the church doors this weekend.
SVP helps individuals and families in the area who are struggling to cope, often to ensure that there is light in the home and food on the table. About 9,500 volunteers in 1,200 local groups across the country give their time freely so that the donations you make can go straight to the people who need help the most in your locality.
Make a donation and give hope to a local person in need this Christmas.
The members of the Society meet at the Parish Centre on Monday evening from 8.00pm. In urgent cases the member on duty may be contacted on 087 681 0589.
Fundraising Bag Pack
A fundraising bag pack for the parish will take place in Supervalu, Loughboy on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of this week. Some of our parishioners will pack your shopping to raise money towards the cost of our new Parish Centre. If you have a couple of hours to spare on any of the days and would like to help out, please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400. Many hands make light work!
Keep Christ in Christmas
Our parish shop, located in the foyer of St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, has a range of Advent calendars, candles, cribs, Christmas candles, children’s Christmas books and religious gifts available. Come in a browse during the next few days and select items with a Christian theme for Christmas.
Trocaire
This Advent Trócaire is asking us to remember children in Somalia. Somalia is desperately dangerous with only 30% of children able to attend school and many are forced to become child soldiers. This Christmas through its Global Gifts Trócaire is hoping to keep 15 primary schools open giving 3,500 children the chance to go to school for a year and stay safe. www.trocaire.org/globalgift.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Christina Walsh, Haltigan Terrace. Maeve Healy, Laurel Green. Fr. Benjamin O’Connell OFM Cap, Rochestown and late of Capuchin Friary, Kilkenny (Mass will be offered at the Capuchin Friary when the weather improves).
Months Mind: Peggy Costigan (Fri 7.30 Foulkstown).
Anniversaries: Florrie Cleere (Sat 6.15), Pat Kearney (Sat 7.00), Michael Hynes (Sun 9.30), Jeff & Jane Power (Sun 10.00), Kathleen Redpath (Sun 10.30), Eddie Slattery (Sun 11.00), Podge Butler Jnr (Sun 12.00), Michael Dollard (Sun 12.30), Peggy Quinlan (Tues 10.30), Mary O’Neill (Wed 10.30), James Hogan (Thurs 10.30), Patrick Morris (Sat 9.30), Peter & Diana Keenan, Anna & Larry Quinn, Paddy Griffin, John O’Rourke, Tommy Fahey, Margaret Larkin, John Egan, John & Ann Fogarty.
Intentions for next weekend: Elizabeth Comerford (Sat 6.15), Christopher & Mary Coogan (Sat 7.00), John Carroll (Sun 9.30), Joe & Nan Mulhall (Sun 10.00), Patricia Fitzpatrick (Sun 10.30), George Byrne (Sun 11.00), Dick Lynch (Sun 12.00), Mary Blanchfield (Sun 12.30).
May they rest in peace. Amen.
Divine Mercy
In honour of Divine Mercy there will be an hour of adoration and prayer in the Capuchin Friary Church on this Sunday, 12th December from 3 - 4pm. All welcome.
Questions people ask
Q. I’ve struggled for years with an addiction. I keep on falling. Is there any hope for me?
A. There is always hope for the simple reason that God’s love for you never ceases, no matter how often you fall. God’s help comes in many ways such as medical help, addiction counselling, prayer, pilgrimage to a holy place and especially through the understanding and support of fellow strugglers in an addiction fellowship. Advent is the season of hope. Come, Lord Jesus, into our desert areas and places of darkness.
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
KSP Christmas Fair
KSP Annual Christmas Fayre is on this Sunday 12th from 12 noon until 2pm. Fab Food Stall with lots of Christmas goodies, Wheel of Fortune, Raffle, Café and fun Kid’s Stalls. All are very welcome!
SOS
SOS Callan Road will hold their Christmas Craft Fair and Coffee Afternoon on this Sunday, 12th December from 2pm - 5pm. Everyone is welcome. Admission free. The workshop will reopen on Monday, 13th December.
Imprisonment
What is always most striking about Advent is the liturgy’s lack of reference to Christmas itself. My awareness of this may easily be a consequence of growing up in a time when Christmas became highly delineated by seasonal imagery; religious, commercial, religiously commercial and commercially religious. Either way, the image of John imprisoned is yet another telling reminder that Advent is more than preparing for turkey or, indeed, a sentimental manger scene. As we draw ever closer to Christmas, a noticeable thrust emerges from the liturgy of the word. Namely, the exasperated longing for God encapsulated in Isaiah’s urge to hope, James’ call to patience, and Jesus’ request for faith.
John is impatient in his questioning. Fearful of dying without knowing, he sends his disciples to ask the young prophet about his intentions. Jesus urges them to believe and sends them on their way. But his response is no impatient dismissal; instead, it is full of the real emotion which is evident in the absence of friends. Just as John misses Jesus, so Jesus misses John. The Baptist is not imprisoned by the walls of a cell; rather, it is his sense of detachment from the coming which he has heralded that dominates his concern. Jesus’ call to believe is the key which frees both us and John from our cells. Christ came to preach to those in prison. John, then, is closer to his esteemed rabbi than he knows. And it is most certainly the same for us who read. (Paul Clogher)
Attention Parish Readers
The first talk for Ministers of the Word which was held on last Thursday evening was a great success despite the weather conditions. The second evening will follow on this Thursday, 16th December in St. Patrick's Centre, Kilkenny, also, with guest speaker Olivia Maher. Talk starts at 7.30pm.
Advent Series of Talks
The series of Advent talks organised by the Diocese of Ossory entitled Look not on our sins but on the faith of Your Church has been postponed because of the inclement weather.
Loughboy Library
Exhibition of art works by local artist Kristina Dragoman until Christmas.
Exhibition space is still available for 2011 - please book at 779 4176.
Toddler Hour - Christmas crafts and stories are on the agenda on Thursday, 16th December at 11.30am. All toddlers and minders are welcome.
Computers - a tutor will be in the library every Tuesday and Wednesday 10am - 1pm to give you tips for free.
Family Liturgy
The 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on Sundays continues to be family focused. Practice takes place on Wednesday evenings between 6.30pm and 7.15pm. Young people and parents are welcome.
Cookery Demonstration
Ann Neary and Edward Hayden will give a cookery demonstration in Coláiste Éamann Rís, Callan at 8.00pm on Thursday, 16th December. A great night’s entertainment guaranteed. Tickets are €20 and all proceeds are in aid of the school. Tickets available from the school at 056 772 5340 or members of the Parents’ Council.
Charity Christmas Concert
The local group of the Irish Pilgrimage Trust is holding a fundraising concert at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Sunday, 19th December at 3.30pm. Acts include D-tour, Tom Bolger & Sons, Trish Carroll, Jimmy Byrne, St. Fiacre’s Church Choir, Nicky McCullagh, Peter Prendergast and Noel Power. Tickets €5 from the Sacristies, Parish Centre and Fr. Dan. Proceeds to help children with special needs pilgrimage to Lourdes at Easter. Please support.
The annual St. Patrick’s Parish Carol Service takes place on this Sunday, 12th December at 4pm in St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown. For many this has become a must-attend event in the lead up to Christmas and all are welcome. Seasonal refreshments will be served in the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre after the service.
Do This In Memory
We welcome the candidates for First Holy Communion and their families who have joined us for the Do This In Memory programme this weekend.
We continue to support the young people and their families as they prepare to celebrate the sacrament next year.
Parish Christmas Programme
Christmas Day falls on a Saturday this year. The following parish Mass schedule will apply.
St. Fiacre’s Church: Vigil Mass at 9.00pm
Mass of Midnight (Latin)
10.30am, 12.00 noon
St. Patrick’s Church: Midnight Mass
9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm
St. Joseph’s Church: 10.00am
Please note there will not be evening Vigil Masses on Saturday, 25th December (Christmas Day).
Masses on Sunday, 26th December will follow the usual Sunday Mass schedule.
During the week after Christmas the only public Mass in our parish will be at St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am each day.
Come and celebrate the birth of our Saviour.
Christmas Penitential Service
The St. Patrick’s Parish Christmas Penitential Service will be held at St. Patrick’s Church at 7.30pm on Monday, 20th December. Visiting priests will attend. Please use this opportunity to prepare for Christmas.
Weekly Envelope Collection
The envelope collection last week amounted to €1,545.00. Standing Order contributions during November came to €4,456.00. Thanks.
SVP Annual Appeal
The annual Christmas collection for the St. Patrick’s Parish Conference of the Society of St. Vincent De Paul takes place at the church doors this weekend.
SVP helps individuals and families in the area who are struggling to cope, often to ensure that there is light in the home and food on the table. About 9,500 volunteers in 1,200 local groups across the country give their time freely so that the donations you make can go straight to the people who need help the most in your locality.
Make a donation and give hope to a local person in need this Christmas.
The members of the Society meet at the Parish Centre on Monday evening from 8.00pm. In urgent cases the member on duty may be contacted on 087 681 0589.
Fundraising Bag Pack
A fundraising bag pack for the parish will take place in Supervalu, Loughboy on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of this week. Some of our parishioners will pack your shopping to raise money towards the cost of our new Parish Centre. If you have a couple of hours to spare on any of the days and would like to help out, please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400. Many hands make light work!
Keep Christ in Christmas
Our parish shop, located in the foyer of St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, has a range of Advent calendars, candles, cribs, Christmas candles, children’s Christmas books and religious gifts available. Come in a browse during the next few days and select items with a Christian theme for Christmas.
Trocaire
This Advent Trócaire is asking us to remember children in Somalia. Somalia is desperately dangerous with only 30% of children able to attend school and many are forced to become child soldiers. This Christmas through its Global Gifts Trócaire is hoping to keep 15 primary schools open giving 3,500 children the chance to go to school for a year and stay safe. www.trocaire.org/globalgift.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Christina Walsh, Haltigan Terrace. Maeve Healy, Laurel Green. Fr. Benjamin O’Connell OFM Cap, Rochestown and late of Capuchin Friary, Kilkenny (Mass will be offered at the Capuchin Friary when the weather improves).
Months Mind: Peggy Costigan (Fri 7.30 Foulkstown).
Anniversaries: Florrie Cleere (Sat 6.15), Pat Kearney (Sat 7.00), Michael Hynes (Sun 9.30), Jeff & Jane Power (Sun 10.00), Kathleen Redpath (Sun 10.30), Eddie Slattery (Sun 11.00), Podge Butler Jnr (Sun 12.00), Michael Dollard (Sun 12.30), Peggy Quinlan (Tues 10.30), Mary O’Neill (Wed 10.30), James Hogan (Thurs 10.30), Patrick Morris (Sat 9.30), Peter & Diana Keenan, Anna & Larry Quinn, Paddy Griffin, John O’Rourke, Tommy Fahey, Margaret Larkin, John Egan, John & Ann Fogarty.
Intentions for next weekend: Elizabeth Comerford (Sat 6.15), Christopher & Mary Coogan (Sat 7.00), John Carroll (Sun 9.30), Joe & Nan Mulhall (Sun 10.00), Patricia Fitzpatrick (Sun 10.30), George Byrne (Sun 11.00), Dick Lynch (Sun 12.00), Mary Blanchfield (Sun 12.30).
May they rest in peace. Amen.
Divine Mercy
In honour of Divine Mercy there will be an hour of adoration and prayer in the Capuchin Friary Church on this Sunday, 12th December from 3 - 4pm. All welcome.
Questions people ask
Q. I’ve struggled for years with an addiction. I keep on falling. Is there any hope for me?
A. There is always hope for the simple reason that God’s love for you never ceases, no matter how often you fall. God’s help comes in many ways such as medical help, addiction counselling, prayer, pilgrimage to a holy place and especially through the understanding and support of fellow strugglers in an addiction fellowship. Advent is the season of hope. Come, Lord Jesus, into our desert areas and places of darkness.
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
KSP Christmas Fair
KSP Annual Christmas Fayre is on this Sunday 12th from 12 noon until 2pm. Fab Food Stall with lots of Christmas goodies, Wheel of Fortune, Raffle, Café and fun Kid’s Stalls. All are very welcome!
SOS
SOS Callan Road will hold their Christmas Craft Fair and Coffee Afternoon on this Sunday, 12th December from 2pm - 5pm. Everyone is welcome. Admission free. The workshop will reopen on Monday, 13th December.
Imprisonment
What is always most striking about Advent is the liturgy’s lack of reference to Christmas itself. My awareness of this may easily be a consequence of growing up in a time when Christmas became highly delineated by seasonal imagery; religious, commercial, religiously commercial and commercially religious. Either way, the image of John imprisoned is yet another telling reminder that Advent is more than preparing for turkey or, indeed, a sentimental manger scene. As we draw ever closer to Christmas, a noticeable thrust emerges from the liturgy of the word. Namely, the exasperated longing for God encapsulated in Isaiah’s urge to hope, James’ call to patience, and Jesus’ request for faith.
John is impatient in his questioning. Fearful of dying without knowing, he sends his disciples to ask the young prophet about his intentions. Jesus urges them to believe and sends them on their way. But his response is no impatient dismissal; instead, it is full of the real emotion which is evident in the absence of friends. Just as John misses Jesus, so Jesus misses John. The Baptist is not imprisoned by the walls of a cell; rather, it is his sense of detachment from the coming which he has heralded that dominates his concern. Jesus’ call to believe is the key which frees both us and John from our cells. Christ came to preach to those in prison. John, then, is closer to his esteemed rabbi than he knows. And it is most certainly the same for us who read. (Paul Clogher)
Attention Parish Readers
The first talk for Ministers of the Word which was held on last Thursday evening was a great success despite the weather conditions. The second evening will follow on this Thursday, 16th December in St. Patrick's Centre, Kilkenny, also, with guest speaker Olivia Maher. Talk starts at 7.30pm.
Advent Series of Talks
The series of Advent talks organised by the Diocese of Ossory entitled Look not on our sins but on the faith of Your Church has been postponed because of the inclement weather.
Loughboy Library
Exhibition of art works by local artist Kristina Dragoman until Christmas.
Exhibition space is still available for 2011 - please book at 779 4176.
Toddler Hour - Christmas crafts and stories are on the agenda on Thursday, 16th December at 11.30am. All toddlers and minders are welcome.
Computers - a tutor will be in the library every Tuesday and Wednesday 10am - 1pm to give you tips for free.
Family Liturgy
The 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on Sundays continues to be family focused. Practice takes place on Wednesday evenings between 6.30pm and 7.15pm. Young people and parents are welcome.
Cookery Demonstration
Ann Neary and Edward Hayden will give a cookery demonstration in Coláiste Éamann Rís, Callan at 8.00pm on Thursday, 16th December. A great night’s entertainment guaranteed. Tickets are €20 and all proceeds are in aid of the school. Tickets available from the school at 056 772 5340 or members of the Parents’ Council.
Charity Christmas Concert
The local group of the Irish Pilgrimage Trust is holding a fundraising concert at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Sunday, 19th December at 3.30pm. Acts include D-tour, Tom Bolger & Sons, Trish Carroll, Jimmy Byrne, St. Fiacre’s Church Choir, Nicky McCullagh, Peter Prendergast and Noel Power. Tickets €5 from the Sacristies, Parish Centre and Fr. Dan. Proceeds to help children with special needs pilgrimage to Lourdes at Easter. Please support.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Second Sunday of Advent, 5th December 2010
The Immaculate Conception
Wednesday next is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Masses will follow the usual Saturday/Sunday timetable in our parish.
Family Liturgy and Choir
It’s that time of year again! - the Children's Liturgy and Choir will start for the Advent Season on Sunday, 5th December. We will be meeting for practise on Wednesday evening between 6.30 and 7.15pm and all our young people and their parents are welcome. We would especially welcome new comers and musicians be they young or old.
Annual Christmas Carol Service
The annual St. Patrick’s Parish Carol Service takes place on next Sunday, 12th December at 4pm in St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown. For many this has become a must-attend event in the lead up to Christmas and all are welcome. Seasonal refreshments will be served in the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre after the service.
Kermit High School Choir
We welcome the Honor Choir from Kermit High School, Texas, USA to our parish this weekend. The choir will provide sacred music during the 6.15pm Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on Saturday and present a short concert after the Mass.
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Joseph's Young Priests Society will take place in the Parish Centre on Friday, 10th December immediately after the 10.30am Mass. New members are always very welcome in the ministry of promoting and praying for vocations. (Weather permitting.)
Candlelight Rosary Procession
Annual Candlelight Rosary Procession will leave The Parade, Kilkenny, at 8.00pm for Benediction in the Black Abbey, on Wednesday, 8th December, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. All welcome.
Attention All Parish Readers
“Go teach all nations”: How we can best Communicate the Word of God in our World Today is the title of a two week course for readers of the Word of God in the Diocese of Ossory. In a world where technology has made communication instant, communicating a message is ever more challenging. There is a tremendous competition in our world to hear and to be heard. In order for us to communicate more effectively we need to do two things well: understand the message and improve how it is that we share it with others. To help achieve this we encourage all those who read the scriptures in our parish to attend two evening presentations to reflect on these issues.
On next Thursday, 9th December at 7.30pm at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Caroline Murphy (RTE) will explore what is happening when we communicate and how we might do this more effectively. On the following Thursday Olivia Maher (Ossory Faith Development) will help us to explore the background to and the importance of the scriptures that we read each weekend. St. Patrick’s Parish is honoured to host these presentations which are for all readers in the diocese. We strongly encourage our parish readers to make an effort to attend.
Parish Christmas Programme
Christmas Day falls on a Saturday this year. The following parish Mass schedule will apply.
St. Fiacre’s Church: Vigil Mass at 9.00pm
Mass of Midnight (Latin)
10.30am, 12.00 noon
St. Patrick’s Church: Midnight Mass
9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm
St. Joseph’s Church: 10.00am
Please note there will not be evening Vigil Masses on Saturday, 25th December (Christmas Day).
Masses on Sunday, 26th December will follow the usual Sunday Mass schedule.
During the week after Christmas the only public Mass in our parish will be at St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am each day.
Come and celebrate the birth of our Saviour with the people of St. Patrick’s Parish.
Advent Series of Talks
The Diocese of Ossory has organised a series of talks for Advent entitled Look not on our sins but on the faith of Your Church. The programme consists of three reflections exploring what it is to be Church today. Our Church is sinful and broken – have we embraced this reality fully? What does this reality say about us? What impact does it, or should it have on us? Surely there must be hope but what is it?
Why not join us for the series as we explore these and other questions?
Tuesday, 7th December: “Deciding to stay? Looking for a renewed vision of Church”. Speaker: Ms. Ann Daly.
Tuesday, 14th December: “The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light”: Our search for that light today”. Speaker: Fr. Dan Bollard
The talks will take place at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre and the format of each evening will be a short reflection for about 30 minutes and then the opportunity for discussion and questions. Time: 8.00 – 9.00pm each evening.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Margaret Roche, Lavistown, Honor Flannery (Wed 11.00), Jim Martin, Canada. Billy Maher, late of Stephen Street and London. Funeral arrangements later.
Months Mind: Sr. Sheila Lynch (Sat 7.00), Breda Phelan.
Anniversaries: Tom O’Dowd (Sat 6.15), Julia O’Carroll (Sat 7.00), Angela Murphy (Sun 10.00), Laurence Healy (Sun 10.30), Elaine Kelly (Sun 11.00), Michael Dwyer (Sun 12.00), Michael Fitzmaurice (Sun 12.30), Michael Hickey (Tues 6.15), Myra Treacy (Wed 10.00), John and Ann Fogarty (Fri 10.30), Christy Galvin, Margaret Guilfoyle, Hugh Tiernan, John & Annie Free, Liam Bergin, Sean & Kitty Ryan, Annie Wall.
Intentions for next weekend: Florrie Cleere (Sat 6.15), Pat Kearney (Sat 7.00), Michael Hynes (Sun 9.30), Jane & Jeff Power (Sun 10.00), Kathleen Redpath (Sun 10.30), Eddie Slattery (Sun 11.00), Podge Butler Jnr (Sun 12.00), Michael Dollard (Sun 12.30).
SVP Annual Appeal
St. Vincent de Paul Week takes place from 5th - 12th December, culminating with SVP Sunday on 12th December. The annual Christmas collection for the St. Patrick’s Parish Conference of the Society will be held at the church doors next weekend, 11th and 12th December. (The collections inside the church will not be for the society on this occasion.)
SVP helps individuals and families who are struggling to cope, often to ensure that there is light in the home and food on the table. About 9,500 volunteers in 1,200 local groups across the country give their time freely so that the donations you make can go straight to the people who need help the most in your locality.
The SVP Annual Appeal; make a donation and give hope to a local person in need.
Do This In Memory
The next Mass in the Do This In Memory programme for First Holy Communion Candidates will be celebrated next weekend.
Rosary
Monthly Rosary at the stature of our lady of Kilkenny on Sunday 5th December at 3pm.
Weekly Envelope Collection
The envelope collection last week amounted to €1,300. Thanks for your continued generosity.
Westcourt News
The Mass for the blessings of Blessed Edmund Rice on our lives and for his canonisation will be celebrated in Westcourt on Monday, December 6th 2010 at 7.30pm.
The St Joseph’s Young Priest’s Society will organise the Liturgy.
Christmas Concert
Sunday 12th December at 4.30pm in St. John’s Church, Dublin Road, Kilkenny, The Kilkenny Choir and Carlow Choral Society present Vaughan Williams - Mass in G Minor for Two Choirs, accompanied by Brass Ensemble. The Kilkenny Choir will also sing Bruckner Motets. Adm. €10/€8.
School of the Holy Spirit - Thanks
All at the School of the Holy Spirit wish to say “thank you” to all those who attended our Coffee Morning and Sale of Work. In spite of the snow many supported the fundraiser. Thanks for your support to raise much needed funds for our special pupils.
Village Crafts
Christmas Exhibition and Sale at Ormonde College, Saturday & Sunday, 4th and 5th December. Woodturning: Mick Morrissey, Canice Ryan, Ciaran Walsh. Painting: Pat Holland. Come and have a look.
Kilkenny Lions Club
Hamper and Charity Appeal Kilkenny Schools’ Concert featuring: CBS Boys’ Choir, Kilkenny College Senior Jazz Band and Junior Choir and Chamber Choir, St. John’s Senior School Choir and Chamber ensemble. St. Canice’s Co-Ed Recorder Ensemble and Jazz Band, Gaelscoil Osraí Choirs, Castlecomer Community School Choir, St. Patrick’s Boys’ Choir. All at St. Canice’s Cathedral on Thursday, 9th December at 7.30pm. Admission: Adults €10, Children €4 (Payable at the door).
Opportunities for Advent Prayer
Advent Scripture Reflection: An opportunity for a group to come together to reflect on the scriptures. Booklets are available to guide people through a simple method of scripture reflection. They contain all the Advent Sunday readings thereby encouraging people to explore them each week. The booklets also contains some very simple questions to help animate discussion and reflection. Booklets cost €3.
Praying the Psalms: Provides an opportunity for a group to come together during Advent to pray the psalms together. There are two booklets with this programme: the first contains hymns, psalms and prayers from the Prayer of the Church and is designed so as to be used by groups for a number of years. The second booklet contains the Gospels of Advent and some reflections. The cost of these booklets is €5 for the pair. Tel: 056 775 3624 for copies.
Blessing of the Crib
Blessing of the Crib at Workhouse Square, MacDonagh Junction on Wednesday, 8th December at 5.30pm by Fr Frank Purcell. The Kilkenny Gospel Choir will provide the sacred music during the ceremony.
Wednesday next is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Masses will follow the usual Saturday/Sunday timetable in our parish.
Family Liturgy and Choir
It’s that time of year again! - the Children's Liturgy and Choir will start for the Advent Season on Sunday, 5th December. We will be meeting for practise on Wednesday evening between 6.30 and 7.15pm and all our young people and their parents are welcome. We would especially welcome new comers and musicians be they young or old.
Annual Christmas Carol Service
The annual St. Patrick’s Parish Carol Service takes place on next Sunday, 12th December at 4pm in St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown. For many this has become a must-attend event in the lead up to Christmas and all are welcome. Seasonal refreshments will be served in the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre after the service.
Kermit High School Choir
We welcome the Honor Choir from Kermit High School, Texas, USA to our parish this weekend. The choir will provide sacred music during the 6.15pm Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on Saturday and present a short concert after the Mass.
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Joseph's Young Priests Society will take place in the Parish Centre on Friday, 10th December immediately after the 10.30am Mass. New members are always very welcome in the ministry of promoting and praying for vocations. (Weather permitting.)
Candlelight Rosary Procession
Annual Candlelight Rosary Procession will leave The Parade, Kilkenny, at 8.00pm for Benediction in the Black Abbey, on Wednesday, 8th December, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. All welcome.
Attention All Parish Readers
“Go teach all nations”: How we can best Communicate the Word of God in our World Today is the title of a two week course for readers of the Word of God in the Diocese of Ossory. In a world where technology has made communication instant, communicating a message is ever more challenging. There is a tremendous competition in our world to hear and to be heard. In order for us to communicate more effectively we need to do two things well: understand the message and improve how it is that we share it with others. To help achieve this we encourage all those who read the scriptures in our parish to attend two evening presentations to reflect on these issues.
On next Thursday, 9th December at 7.30pm at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Caroline Murphy (RTE) will explore what is happening when we communicate and how we might do this more effectively. On the following Thursday Olivia Maher (Ossory Faith Development) will help us to explore the background to and the importance of the scriptures that we read each weekend. St. Patrick’s Parish is honoured to host these presentations which are for all readers in the diocese. We strongly encourage our parish readers to make an effort to attend.
Parish Christmas Programme
Christmas Day falls on a Saturday this year. The following parish Mass schedule will apply.
St. Fiacre’s Church: Vigil Mass at 9.00pm
Mass of Midnight (Latin)
10.30am, 12.00 noon
St. Patrick’s Church: Midnight Mass
9.30am, 11.00am, 12.30pm
St. Joseph’s Church: 10.00am
Please note there will not be evening Vigil Masses on Saturday, 25th December (Christmas Day).
Masses on Sunday, 26th December will follow the usual Sunday Mass schedule.
During the week after Christmas the only public Mass in our parish will be at St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am each day.
Come and celebrate the birth of our Saviour with the people of St. Patrick’s Parish.
Advent Series of Talks
The Diocese of Ossory has organised a series of talks for Advent entitled Look not on our sins but on the faith of Your Church. The programme consists of three reflections exploring what it is to be Church today. Our Church is sinful and broken – have we embraced this reality fully? What does this reality say about us? What impact does it, or should it have on us? Surely there must be hope but what is it?
Why not join us for the series as we explore these and other questions?
Tuesday, 7th December: “Deciding to stay? Looking for a renewed vision of Church”. Speaker: Ms. Ann Daly.
Tuesday, 14th December: “The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light”: Our search for that light today”. Speaker: Fr. Dan Bollard
The talks will take place at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre and the format of each evening will be a short reflection for about 30 minutes and then the opportunity for discussion and questions. Time: 8.00 – 9.00pm each evening.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Margaret Roche, Lavistown, Honor Flannery (Wed 11.00), Jim Martin, Canada. Billy Maher, late of Stephen Street and London. Funeral arrangements later.
Months Mind: Sr. Sheila Lynch (Sat 7.00), Breda Phelan.
Anniversaries: Tom O’Dowd (Sat 6.15), Julia O’Carroll (Sat 7.00), Angela Murphy (Sun 10.00), Laurence Healy (Sun 10.30), Elaine Kelly (Sun 11.00), Michael Dwyer (Sun 12.00), Michael Fitzmaurice (Sun 12.30), Michael Hickey (Tues 6.15), Myra Treacy (Wed 10.00), John and Ann Fogarty (Fri 10.30), Christy Galvin, Margaret Guilfoyle, Hugh Tiernan, John & Annie Free, Liam Bergin, Sean & Kitty Ryan, Annie Wall.
Intentions for next weekend: Florrie Cleere (Sat 6.15), Pat Kearney (Sat 7.00), Michael Hynes (Sun 9.30), Jane & Jeff Power (Sun 10.00), Kathleen Redpath (Sun 10.30), Eddie Slattery (Sun 11.00), Podge Butler Jnr (Sun 12.00), Michael Dollard (Sun 12.30).
SVP Annual Appeal
St. Vincent de Paul Week takes place from 5th - 12th December, culminating with SVP Sunday on 12th December. The annual Christmas collection for the St. Patrick’s Parish Conference of the Society will be held at the church doors next weekend, 11th and 12th December. (The collections inside the church will not be for the society on this occasion.)
SVP helps individuals and families who are struggling to cope, often to ensure that there is light in the home and food on the table. About 9,500 volunteers in 1,200 local groups across the country give their time freely so that the donations you make can go straight to the people who need help the most in your locality.
The SVP Annual Appeal; make a donation and give hope to a local person in need.
Do This In Memory
The next Mass in the Do This In Memory programme for First Holy Communion Candidates will be celebrated next weekend.
Rosary
Monthly Rosary at the stature of our lady of Kilkenny on Sunday 5th December at 3pm.
Weekly Envelope Collection
The envelope collection last week amounted to €1,300. Thanks for your continued generosity.
Westcourt News
The Mass for the blessings of Blessed Edmund Rice on our lives and for his canonisation will be celebrated in Westcourt on Monday, December 6th 2010 at 7.30pm.
The St Joseph’s Young Priest’s Society will organise the Liturgy.
Christmas Concert
Sunday 12th December at 4.30pm in St. John’s Church, Dublin Road, Kilkenny, The Kilkenny Choir and Carlow Choral Society present Vaughan Williams - Mass in G Minor for Two Choirs, accompanied by Brass Ensemble. The Kilkenny Choir will also sing Bruckner Motets. Adm. €10/€8.
School of the Holy Spirit - Thanks
All at the School of the Holy Spirit wish to say “thank you” to all those who attended our Coffee Morning and Sale of Work. In spite of the snow many supported the fundraiser. Thanks for your support to raise much needed funds for our special pupils.
Village Crafts
Christmas Exhibition and Sale at Ormonde College, Saturday & Sunday, 4th and 5th December. Woodturning: Mick Morrissey, Canice Ryan, Ciaran Walsh. Painting: Pat Holland. Come and have a look.
Kilkenny Lions Club
Hamper and Charity Appeal Kilkenny Schools’ Concert featuring: CBS Boys’ Choir, Kilkenny College Senior Jazz Band and Junior Choir and Chamber Choir, St. John’s Senior School Choir and Chamber ensemble. St. Canice’s Co-Ed Recorder Ensemble and Jazz Band, Gaelscoil Osraí Choirs, Castlecomer Community School Choir, St. Patrick’s Boys’ Choir. All at St. Canice’s Cathedral on Thursday, 9th December at 7.30pm. Admission: Adults €10, Children €4 (Payable at the door).
Opportunities for Advent Prayer
Advent Scripture Reflection: An opportunity for a group to come together to reflect on the scriptures. Booklets are available to guide people through a simple method of scripture reflection. They contain all the Advent Sunday readings thereby encouraging people to explore them each week. The booklets also contains some very simple questions to help animate discussion and reflection. Booklets cost €3.
Praying the Psalms: Provides an opportunity for a group to come together during Advent to pray the psalms together. There are two booklets with this programme: the first contains hymns, psalms and prayers from the Prayer of the Church and is designed so as to be used by groups for a number of years. The second booklet contains the Gospels of Advent and some reflections. The cost of these booklets is €5 for the pair. Tel: 056 775 3624 for copies.
Blessing of the Crib
Blessing of the Crib at Workhouse Square, MacDonagh Junction on Wednesday, 8th December at 5.30pm by Fr Frank Purcell. The Kilkenny Gospel Choir will provide the sacred music during the ceremony.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
First Sunday of Advent, 28th November 2010
Advent Series of Talks
The Diocese of Ossory has organised a series of talks for Advent entitled Look not on our sins but on the faith of Your Church. The programme consists of three reflections exploring what it is to be Church today. Our Church is sinful and broken – have we embraced this reality fully? What does this reality say about us? What impact does it, or should it have on us? Surely there must be hope but what is it?
Why not join us for the series as we explore these and other questions?
Tuesday, 30th November: “One of you is about to betray me: Acknowledging the Judas’ among us”. Speaker: Fr. Dermot Ryan.
Tuesday, 7th December: “Deciding to stay? Looking for a renewed vision of Church”. Speaker: Ms. Ann Daly.
Tuesday, 14th December: “The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light”: Our search for that light today”. Speaker: Fr. Dan Bollard
The talks will take place at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre and the format of each evening will be a short reflection for about 30 minutes and then the opportunity for discussion and questions. Time: 8.00 – 9.00pm each evening.
The same talks will be presented in Ballyragget (29th November, 6th and 13th December) and Mullinavat (1st, 8th and 15th December).
Family Liturgy and Choir
It’s that time of year again! - the Children's Liturgy and Choir will start for the Advent Season on Sunday, 5th December. We will be meeting for practise on Wednesday evening between 6.30 and 7.15pm and all our young people and their parents are welcome. We would especially welcome new comers and musicians be they young or old.
Is Priesthood for You?
“They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks…” If you think that God is calling you to serve the Lord of the Harvest as a priest call Fr. Willie Purcell, Vocations Director @ the Vocations Office 056 777 0261 or ossoryvocdir@gmail.com.
Questions People Ask
Isn’t Advent a season of preparing for Christmas? Why is there never any reference to this on the First Sunday of Advent?
Advent is certainly a preparation for Christmas but is has other dimensions too. Advent prepares for the coming of Christ, past, present and future. Christmas celebrates Christ’s coming once upon a time in past history. But it also includes the coming of Christ to us each present day. And its future dimension is a reminder to be ready for the coming of Christ at the end of life, a date we do not know. The future coming of Christ is the focus of attention in the liturgy of Advent’s first Sunday.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Weekly Envelope Collection
The envelope collection last week amounted to €1,140. Thanks for your continued generosity.
Pray for our Deceased FriendsRecently Deceased: Sr. Catherine Mary (Stephen) Begadon, Presentation Convent, Parnell Street. Requiem Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral at 11.00am on Sunday followed by burial in Durrow Cemetery. Brigid Gilligan, 19 Cypress Grove. Margaret Delaney/Snype, Shandon Park. Nora Mahony, Keatingstown, John Seaver.
Months Mind: Mamie Shortiss (Sun 10.30). Johnny Delaney (Tues 9.30).
Anniversaries: Una Heffernan (Sat 6.15), James Fox (Sat 7.00), Mairead & Ger Carmody, John & Nora Mullan (Sun 9.30), Kathleen Brown (Sun 10.00), Thomas Dowling (Sun 10.30), Kitty McMyler (Sun 12.00), Raymond & Breda Dowling, Marie, Phyllis & Thomas Dowling (Sun 12.30), Jeremiah Mullally (Wed 10.30), John McCarthy, Ollie Bergin, Maureen Nolan, Joe McKane, Eileen Barry, Rory McPhillips, Thomas & Margaret Beehan, John O’Shea.
Intentions for next weekend: Tom O’Dowd (Sat 6.15), Julia O’Carroll (Sat 7.00), Angela Murphy (Sun 10.00), Laurence Healy (Sun 10.30), Elaine Kelly (Sun 11.00), Michael Dwyer (Sun 12.00), Michael Fitzmaurice (Sun 12.30).
Kermit High School Choir
The Honor Choir from Kermit High School, Texas, USA sing during the 6.15pm Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on next Saturday. The choir will give a short concert after the Mass.
The Knights of St. Columbanus?
Who are the Knights of St. Columbanus? They are not a bunch of elite, conservative Catholics who belong to a secret organisation and who oppose all attempts to bring the Catholic Church into the modern world. So who or what are the Knights? They are an organization of Catholic men who have come to know a God of love and want to share that love with others through helping those who need help. They organise events such as a Christmas party for the less well off and provide funding for drug education for school children. You know, the practical things which help to make life better for others. Interested? Call Peter 087 237 3043 or Brian 086 085 3242.
Dochas Nasamu
Used clothing appeal for Irish run orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya. Place bags inside gates of St. Patrick’s Parish Centre before noon on Monday. Contact Marie on 087 689 0995.
Cookery Demonstration
Ann Neary will give a cookery demonstration in Coláiste Éamann Rís, Callan at 8.00pm on Thursday, 2nd December. A great nights entertainment guaranteed. Tickets are €20 and all proceeds are in aid of the school. Tickets available from the school at 056 772 5340 or any member of the Parent's Council.
Village Crafts
Christmas Exhibition and Sale
Ormonde College, Saturday & Sunday, 4th and 5th December. Woodturning: Mick Morrissey, Canice Ryan, Ciaran Walsh. Painting: Pat Holland. Come and have a look.
Trinity Singers and Boydell Singers
Choral Concert, Saturday, 4th December, 8.00pm, St. John the Evangelist Church, Dublin Road, Kilkenny. Adm €5/€3. The Boydell Singers, conducted by Patrick Barrett, perform pieces by Britten, Liszt and Kodály plus Christmas favourites. Trinity Singers, conducted by Róisín Blunnie, present works by Bruckner, Mendelssohn, Rheinberger, Gorecki, Whitacre, Orbán and Pärt.
Buket List
The 2007 film ‘The Bucket List’ starred Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson as two terminally ill men who put together a wishlist of things to do before they ‘kick the bucket’. They do a skydive, get tattoos, visit the pyramids. Several of the items on the to-do list are more abstract – witness something truly majestic; help a complete stranger for the good; find the joy in your life. We often hear the advice that we should live each day as if it’s our last. Of course we would live very differently if we knew our own days are numbered, or if it was our last day on earth. Likewise we would treat a family member, friend, or colleague differently if we knew they were to be struck by illness or accident. Sometimes it is only when the fragility of life is laid bare that we manage to get our priorities in order. Yet living differently is exactly what today’s readings demand of us. They set the tone for the period of preparation that is Advent. The Gospel of Matthew uses the metaphor of the thief in the night to highlight of the unexpected nature of the second coming of Jesus. Naturally we would be well prepared if we knew when a burglar would strike our home! The flood took Noah’s contemporaries by surprise as they went about day to day life – eating, drinking, and marrying. ‘So too will be the coming of the Son of Man’. St. Paul gives us a lovely image in today’s Second reading: ‘Put on the armour of light’. Live differently. Stay awake. Be prepared.
Triona Doherty
U-12 panel qualify for final
The Village U12 panel scored a tremendous 1 point win over a very strong St. Mary's (Clonmel) in the semi-final of the Carrigeen floodlight winter hurling tournament.
Loughboy library
Exhibitions- currently o display are works fromt eh Traveller Community—please come in and have a look. Artists—please book your FREE space for 2011/
Toddler Hour continues next Thursday at 11.30am - all welcome.
Christmas - we have a large stock of cookery and craft books.
The Diocese of Ossory has organised a series of talks for Advent entitled Look not on our sins but on the faith of Your Church. The programme consists of three reflections exploring what it is to be Church today. Our Church is sinful and broken – have we embraced this reality fully? What does this reality say about us? What impact does it, or should it have on us? Surely there must be hope but what is it?
Why not join us for the series as we explore these and other questions?
Tuesday, 30th November: “One of you is about to betray me: Acknowledging the Judas’ among us”. Speaker: Fr. Dermot Ryan.
Tuesday, 7th December: “Deciding to stay? Looking for a renewed vision of Church”. Speaker: Ms. Ann Daly.
Tuesday, 14th December: “The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light”: Our search for that light today”. Speaker: Fr. Dan Bollard
The talks will take place at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre and the format of each evening will be a short reflection for about 30 minutes and then the opportunity for discussion and questions. Time: 8.00 – 9.00pm each evening.
The same talks will be presented in Ballyragget (29th November, 6th and 13th December) and Mullinavat (1st, 8th and 15th December).
Family Liturgy and Choir
It’s that time of year again! - the Children's Liturgy and Choir will start for the Advent Season on Sunday, 5th December. We will be meeting for practise on Wednesday evening between 6.30 and 7.15pm and all our young people and their parents are welcome. We would especially welcome new comers and musicians be they young or old.
Is Priesthood for You?
“They shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks…” If you think that God is calling you to serve the Lord of the Harvest as a priest call Fr. Willie Purcell, Vocations Director @ the Vocations Office 056 777 0261 or ossoryvocdir@gmail.com.
Questions People Ask
Isn’t Advent a season of preparing for Christmas? Why is there never any reference to this on the First Sunday of Advent?
Advent is certainly a preparation for Christmas but is has other dimensions too. Advent prepares for the coming of Christ, past, present and future. Christmas celebrates Christ’s coming once upon a time in past history. But it also includes the coming of Christ to us each present day. And its future dimension is a reminder to be ready for the coming of Christ at the end of life, a date we do not know. The future coming of Christ is the focus of attention in the liturgy of Advent’s first Sunday.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Weekly Envelope Collection
The envelope collection last week amounted to €1,140. Thanks for your continued generosity.
Pray for our Deceased FriendsRecently Deceased: Sr. Catherine Mary (Stephen) Begadon, Presentation Convent, Parnell Street. Requiem Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral at 11.00am on Sunday followed by burial in Durrow Cemetery. Brigid Gilligan, 19 Cypress Grove. Margaret Delaney/Snype, Shandon Park. Nora Mahony, Keatingstown, John Seaver.
Months Mind: Mamie Shortiss (Sun 10.30). Johnny Delaney (Tues 9.30).
Anniversaries: Una Heffernan (Sat 6.15), James Fox (Sat 7.00), Mairead & Ger Carmody, John & Nora Mullan (Sun 9.30), Kathleen Brown (Sun 10.00), Thomas Dowling (Sun 10.30), Kitty McMyler (Sun 12.00), Raymond & Breda Dowling, Marie, Phyllis & Thomas Dowling (Sun 12.30), Jeremiah Mullally (Wed 10.30), John McCarthy, Ollie Bergin, Maureen Nolan, Joe McKane, Eileen Barry, Rory McPhillips, Thomas & Margaret Beehan, John O’Shea.
Intentions for next weekend: Tom O’Dowd (Sat 6.15), Julia O’Carroll (Sat 7.00), Angela Murphy (Sun 10.00), Laurence Healy (Sun 10.30), Elaine Kelly (Sun 11.00), Michael Dwyer (Sun 12.00), Michael Fitzmaurice (Sun 12.30).
Kermit High School Choir
The Honor Choir from Kermit High School, Texas, USA sing during the 6.15pm Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on next Saturday. The choir will give a short concert after the Mass.
The Knights of St. Columbanus?
Who are the Knights of St. Columbanus? They are not a bunch of elite, conservative Catholics who belong to a secret organisation and who oppose all attempts to bring the Catholic Church into the modern world. So who or what are the Knights? They are an organization of Catholic men who have come to know a God of love and want to share that love with others through helping those who need help. They organise events such as a Christmas party for the less well off and provide funding for drug education for school children. You know, the practical things which help to make life better for others. Interested? Call Peter 087 237 3043 or Brian 086 085 3242.
Dochas Nasamu
Used clothing appeal for Irish run orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya. Place bags inside gates of St. Patrick’s Parish Centre before noon on Monday. Contact Marie on 087 689 0995.
Cookery Demonstration
Ann Neary will give a cookery demonstration in Coláiste Éamann Rís, Callan at 8.00pm on Thursday, 2nd December. A great nights entertainment guaranteed. Tickets are €20 and all proceeds are in aid of the school. Tickets available from the school at 056 772 5340 or any member of the Parent's Council.
Village Crafts
Christmas Exhibition and Sale
Ormonde College, Saturday & Sunday, 4th and 5th December. Woodturning: Mick Morrissey, Canice Ryan, Ciaran Walsh. Painting: Pat Holland. Come and have a look.
Trinity Singers and Boydell Singers
Choral Concert, Saturday, 4th December, 8.00pm, St. John the Evangelist Church, Dublin Road, Kilkenny. Adm €5/€3. The Boydell Singers, conducted by Patrick Barrett, perform pieces by Britten, Liszt and Kodály plus Christmas favourites. Trinity Singers, conducted by Róisín Blunnie, present works by Bruckner, Mendelssohn, Rheinberger, Gorecki, Whitacre, Orbán and Pärt.
Buket List
The 2007 film ‘The Bucket List’ starred Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson as two terminally ill men who put together a wishlist of things to do before they ‘kick the bucket’. They do a skydive, get tattoos, visit the pyramids. Several of the items on the to-do list are more abstract – witness something truly majestic; help a complete stranger for the good; find the joy in your life. We often hear the advice that we should live each day as if it’s our last. Of course we would live very differently if we knew our own days are numbered, or if it was our last day on earth. Likewise we would treat a family member, friend, or colleague differently if we knew they were to be struck by illness or accident. Sometimes it is only when the fragility of life is laid bare that we manage to get our priorities in order. Yet living differently is exactly what today’s readings demand of us. They set the tone for the period of preparation that is Advent. The Gospel of Matthew uses the metaphor of the thief in the night to highlight of the unexpected nature of the second coming of Jesus. Naturally we would be well prepared if we knew when a burglar would strike our home! The flood took Noah’s contemporaries by surprise as they went about day to day life – eating, drinking, and marrying. ‘So too will be the coming of the Son of Man’. St. Paul gives us a lovely image in today’s Second reading: ‘Put on the armour of light’. Live differently. Stay awake. Be prepared.
Triona Doherty
U-12 panel qualify for final
The Village U12 panel scored a tremendous 1 point win over a very strong St. Mary's (Clonmel) in the semi-final of the Carrigeen floodlight winter hurling tournament.
Loughboy library
Exhibitions- currently o display are works fromt eh Traveller Community—please come in and have a look. Artists—please book your FREE space for 2011/
Toddler Hour continues next Thursday at 11.30am - all welcome.
Christmas - we have a large stock of cookery and craft books.
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