All Saints, 1st November 2015

Understanding the Papacy of Francis 

The Papacy of Francis has attracted the attention of our world. His words, spoken clearly and simply, seem to offer us great hope. Searching for a common theme around which his papacy can be understood is not a difficult task. The Mercy of God and a resulting merciful Church is at the heart of his faith and teachings. Through this series of talks the Ossory Faith Development group hope to explore this idea. Why not join for these free lectures, the first taking place on this Wednesday at St Patrick’s Parish Centre, Loughboy at  7.30pm.

Wednesday, 4^th November: Chris Hayden, the bible - a mercy taught. Wednesday, 11^th November: Albert McDonnell, the new process of marriage annulments - a mercy applied.  Wednesday 18^th November: Sean McDonagh, Laudato Si’ and caring for our world - a mercy lived.

Readers of God’s Word in Church

The new readers rota is being prepared. Anyone interested in proclaiming God’s Word at our Masses should contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400.

Eucharistic Ministers

The new rota for Eucharistic Minsters is available for collection in the sacristies.

Bangers and Mash Lunch

The Samaritans Kilkenny Branch are hosting a Bangers and Mash Fund Raising Lunch on Thursday, 5^th November at the Pembroke Hotel, Patrick Street from 12.30pm to 2.30pm. Donation only €10.  Drop by for a quick lunch to support this very worthy cause.

Triduum in Honour of St. Martin De Porres

The annual Triduum in honour of St Martin De Porres takes place at the Black Abbey: Tuesday 3^rd (Feast of St. Martin): 10.15am: Rosary and Mass. 7.30pm:  Lectio Divina.  Wednesday 4^th: 10.15am: Rosary and Mass 5.00pm: Sacrament of Reconciliation.  7.30pm: Lectio Divina.  Thursday 5^th: 10.15am: Rosary, Mass and Sacrament of the Sick 7.30pm: Lectio Divina.  www.blackabbey.ie/martin 

All Saints Day

On 1^st November we celebrate All Saints Day. It is a victorious celebration of our relatives and friends who have reached their goal. As we know from the first book of the Apocalypse, “These are they who came through the great testing, and their robes have been washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb” (7: 14). They defended and proclaimed the gospel during their lives. Today we celebrate that they are now in the presence of God praying for us.

All Souls Day

The Church always prays for the dead. November 2^nd is devoted to the faithful departed, especially those who have nobody to pray for them. We can visit a cemetery, light a candle and/or say the following prayer for our ancestors and for all those who have gone before us to eternal life. Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon them.  May they rest in peace.  Amen.

Our departed loved ones will be remembered at our parish Masses during November.  Please inscribe their names on a sheet of paper and place it before the altars in our churches.

Crisis in Mental Health

On this Tuesday, 3^rd November at 8.00pm in St. Fiacre’s Church Dr. Fergus Heffernan will speak on The  Crisis in Mental Health in Ireland today. Proceeds to the Irish Pilgrimage Trust, bringing children with special needs to Lourdes at Easter 2016.  All welcome.

Christian Meditation

Christian Meditation has resumed in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 4.00pm each Wednesday.  

St. Mary’s Cathedral Draw Results

1^st: James Holohan, St. Canice’s. 2^nd: Margaret Murphy, Muckalee. 3^rd: Fr. Pat Dalton, Gowran. 4^th: Claire McEvoy, Durrow. 5^th: Tom & Breda Griffin, Mullinavat. 6^th: Tom Gregg, St. Canice’s. 7^th: Mike Cantwell, St. Mary’s. 8^th: Luke Leydon, St. John’s. 9^th: Eileen Raggett, St. Canice’s. 10^th: Ann & Liam Delahunty. St. Mary’s. Thanks for your continued support.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Sr. Frances Lombard, Religious Sisters of Charity, Kells Road.  Sr. Éilís Bergin, Presentation Sisters, Thurles.  Sr. Agnes Ryan, Loreto Sisters, Freshford Road. Requiem Mass on Sunday at 12.30pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral followed by burial in the Convent Cemetery. Pauline Brennan, Bennettsbridge. Michael Killeen, Freshford. Maura Fry (nee Geoghegan), England & late of Jail Road. Funeral prayers on Tuesday evening at 5.30pm in Johnston’s Funeral Home followed by removal to St. Mary’s Cathedral. Requiem Mass on Wednesday at 11.00am. Funeral to St. Kieran’s Cemetery.  

Anniversaries: Kitty Stallard (Sat 6.15). Ned O’Neill (Sat 7.00). Maura Brennan (Sun 9.30). Cormac Cullen (Sun 10.00). William & Margaret Howe,  Mary Howe Mullally (Sun 10.30). Michael Phelan (Sun 11.00). Anne Power (Sun 12.00). Tom Shanahan (Sun 12.30). Jack Garrehy (Wed 10.30). Joe Brennan Thurs 10.30). Pearl Moore (Fri 9.30). Dominic Coll (Fri 10.30). Vivian Etaferi (Sat 9.30).  Anastatia Muldowney. Thomas Tynan. Philip O’Brien.  Richard & Julia Ryan.  Jack Wellford.  Anna, Michael, Mary & Paddy Bowe. Tess O’Neill. Jack Devlin. Joe Gargan. Martin Brett.  Mary Russell.  May they rest in peace.  Amen.

Intentions for Next Weekend: Ned & Anthona  Burke (Sat 6.15). Sr. Brigid Leech (Sat 7.00). Mary Shannon (Sun 9.30). John Glynn (Sun 10.00). Kathleen Redpath (Sun 10.30). Peter, Julie & Willie Carroll (Sun 11.00). Ann Nugent (Sun 12.00). Mary Hanrahan (Sun 12.30).

First Friday

The first Friday of November occurs this week.  Fr. Dan and Fr. Roderick will visit the sick and housebound on Friday. Fr. Liam will visit on Thursday. 

St. Joseph Young Priests Society

Ossory AGM of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place at Chapter Room St. Mary’s Cathedral on Thursday 5^th November beginning with Mass in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel at 7.30pm.  All members are invited to attend.

John Paul II Award Medal Found

A John Paul II Award medal was found in the  Lidl car park . Please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400 with details.

Month of the Holy Souls

Many people choose to abstain from alcohol for the month of November and offer this prayerful act in honour of their deceased loved ones or for someone they know or love with an addiction.  You can do likewise!  Take the Short Term Pledge for November.  Visit at www.pioneerassociation.ie or contact 01 874 9464 for more information.

Irish Wheelchair Association

The Irish Wheelchair Association will hold its national fund raiser “Angel Days” on Thursday 5^th and Friday 6^th November.  Angel pins, angel car air fresheners and angel fun packs will be on sale throughout Kilkenny city and surrounding towns at a cost of €2 each. All funds raised are spent on services for local people with physical and sensory disabilities. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Westcourt News

The monthly Mass to pray for the intercession of Blessed Edmund Rice in our lives and for his canonisation will take place in Westcourt on Monday, 9^th November at 7.30pm. Please note the change of date.  All are welcome

Alcohol-Free Bar

Kilkenny’s first “Alcohol-Free” Bar is open every Thursday night from 9.00 - 11.00pm in Flipside Studios, Colliers Lane, Kilkenny.  The main purpose of this space is to provide a social outlet for people (aged 18+) that doesn’t revolve around alcohol; somewhere people can relax, at night time, with a mineral/cuppa and good company. On occasion we may have different events taking place i.e. local musicians playing, table quizzes etc. The bar will be run by volunteers and is supported through the Kilkenny Men’s Shed.

Knock Conference on the Environment

Leading eco-theologian to speak at Knock conference on the environment. Knock Shrine is holding a day conference with leading thinker and writer in the field of eco-theology, Fr Sean McDonagh SSC, on Saturday, 14^th November. The conference will explore Pope Francis’ writings in his ground breaking Encyclical on the environment, Laudato Si’: On Care for our Common Home. Fr McDonagh is known around the world for his work to promote environmental justice and sustainable development and he advised the Vatican on the first draft of Laudato Si’. The conference is an excellent opportunity to hear from a leading expert in this area. It takes place at St John’s Rest & Care Centre, Knock Shrine, at 10am on Saturday, November 14. Booking is advised. Telephone Knock Shrine Faith Renewal Council on (094) 937 5321 or (087) 692 7850. Alternatively, email faithrenewal@knockshrine.ie. The conference costs €30 and includes lunch.

Celebrating Religious Life in our Diocese

There will be special events to mark the contribution of our religious in our diocese on Sunday, 29^th November at St. Kieran’s College from noon until 5.00pm.  The day will conclude with Mass of Thanksgiving in St. Mary’s Cathedral at 5.30pm.

St. Patrick’s Adult Choir

New singers are welcome to join the Adult Choir in St. Patrick’s Church, especially now in the lead-up to Christmas.  Come along on Mondays at 6:45pm (or on Sunday mornings at 11:00am).  

Papal Blessings

Papal blessing parchments to mark weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, jubilees and some other occasions are available through the Parish Shop. 

Please enquire at the reception desk in the Parish Centre.

There are lots of other items of a religious nature available at reasonable prices in our parish shop which is located in the Parish Center.

Thinking of Getting Married Soon?

Couples wishing to be married in our parish are asked to note the following:  Contact the Parish Office (776 4400) as early as possible to book your preferred date.  Bookings are on a first-come-first-served basis.  Please note that it is a civil requirement to inform the Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths of your intention to marry at least three months before the date - see www.gro.ie for more information about this aspect of preparations.

Contact the parish where you now reside where pre-marriage papers will be prepared for forwarding to the place of marriage. www.gettingmarried.ie is a useful source of information for couples as they plan the big day.

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 25th Ootober 2015

Bank Holiday Weekend

As this is a holiday weekend the only public Mass in our parish on Monday will be at St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am. There will be no exposition of the Blessed Sacrament at St. Fiacre’s Church on Monday.

October Stations

We invite parishioners to contribute towards the income of the parish clergy and bishop through the October Stations.  Special envelopes can be found in the envelope contribution packs or you may use any envelope and mark it “Stations”.  The priests of the parish and bishop acknowledge with gratitude your contributions towards their upkeep.  Thank you.

Crisis in Mental Health

On Tuesday, 3rd November at 8.00pm in St. Fiacre’s Church Dr. Fergus Heffernan will speak on The  Crisis in Mental Health in Ireland today. Proceeds to the Irish Pilgrimage Trust, bringing children with special needs to Lourdes at Easter 2016.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Very Rev. Patrick Canon Brennan, retired Parish Priest of Muckalee. Mary Elizabeth Woodgate, Circular Road.  David Daly, St. Maul’s.  Kitty Maher, Galmoy.  Martin Gilligan, Ballyfin.

Months Mind: Jimmy Long (Mon 11am).

Anniversaries: Breda Hehir (Sat 6.15). Sr. Alma Conway (Sat 7.00). Tom Foley (Sun 9.30). Joseph Eardly (Sun 10.00). Mary McCormack (Sun 10.30). Annie (Nancy) Tiernan (Sun 11.00). Billy Clune (Sun 12.00).  Henrietta Hyland (Sun 12.30).  Michael & Brigid Carthy (Tues 10.30). Declan Walsh (Thurs 10.30). Olive Barry. James Cantwell. Margaret Cantwell Snr. Margaret Cantwell Jnr. Joe Dowling. James A. Malone. Seamus & Johanne Malone. Josie Walsh. Laurence Tynan. Catherine Murphy. Alice Burke.  Esther Mullins.

Intentions for Next Weekend: Kitty Stallard (Sat 6.15). Ned O’Neill (Sat 7.00). Maura Brennan (Sun 9.30). Cormac Cullen (Sun 10.00). William & Margaret Howe,  Mary Howe Mullally (Sun 10.30). Michael Phelan (Sun 11.00). Anne Power (Sun 12.00). Tom Shanahan (Sun 12.30).

Readers of God’s Word in Church

The new readers rota is being prepared. Anyone interested in proclaiming God’s Word at our Masses should contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400.

St. Patrick’s Adult Choir

Fill your hearts with joy!  Singing in a choir is a more effective way to improve your physical and mental wellbeing than taking part in a team sport, according to recent research. If you enjoy singing we’d be glad to welcome you along to enhance the mood with the Adult Choir in St. Patrick’s Church on Mondays at 6.45pm (or on Sundays at 11.00am).

Mission Sunday Collection

Last Sunday was Mission Sunday, it was also the third Sunday of the month when the collection for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is held.  The collection for Mission Sunday was postponed and will be taken up at all Masses this weekend.  Please support our Church’s missionaries.

Christian Mediation

“Be still and know that I am God”  Psalm 46.

Christian Meditation has resumed in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 4.00pm each Wednesday. Newcomers welcome. 

Rosary at the Grotto

The rosary will be recited on each Sunday during October at The Grotto adjacent to Seville Lodge on the Callan Road at 3.00pm.  All are welcome.

Celebrating Religious Life in our Diocese

There will be special events to mark to contribution of our religious in our diocese on Sunday 29^th November at St. Kieran’s College from noon until 5.00pm.  The day will concluding with Mass of Thanksgiving in St. Mary’s Cathedral at 5.30pm. 

Noreside Resource Centre

Free eight hour basic computing course is available.  An ideal course for the elderly.  Contact Noreside Resource Centre, 3 St Canice’s Court, Dean Street on 056 776 2146. 

Parent to Parent

P2P is a peer support group for parents and carers of children with special needs. First Wednesday of the month in St. Patrick's Parish Centre from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Contact 087 904 0208 or 086 160 8341.

Kilkenny Arch Club

Kilkenny Arch Club is a social club for children aged between 6 and 14 years with extra support needs and their siblings. It runs on alternate Saturdays of school calendar year from 11.00am to 1.00pm in S.O.S. Sports Hall, Seville lodge Callan Road. New members and new volunteers contact Noreen @ 083  151 7217 or Frances @ 087 689 6211.  

Sue Ryder's Charity Shop

We are in need of donations of good clothes, DVDs, shoes, handbags, Bric-a-Brac and unwanted gifts for the Sue Ryder Charity Shop, Kieran Street, Kilkenny. All money goes to helping older people live safely, securely and independently. 

Marian Movement of Priests

A meeting of the Marian Movement of Priests will take place on Monday 26th of October in St Josephs Mill Hill Waterford Road at 7.30pm. Mass, Rosary, Holy Hour.  All are welcome .

Month of the Holy Souls

Many people choose to abstain from alcohol for the month of November and offer this prayerful act in honour of their deceased loved ones and for someone they know or love with an addiction.  You can do likewise!  Take the Short Term Pledge for November.  Visit at www.pioneerassociation.ie or contact 01 874 9464 for more information.

The RISE Foundation

The RISE Foundation (Recovery In a Safe Environment) will run an eight week programme to support family members who have a loved one with an alcohol, drug, sex or gambling problem starting at 6.30pm on the 26^th October in the Parish Hall, St. John’s Church, Dublin Road, Kilkenny.

St. Mary’s Cathedral Fundraising

This weekend Fr. Pat Dalton, Chair of the Cathedral Fundraising Committee, has written to all parishioners appealing for funds for the ongoing renovation of St. Mary’s Cathedral - the Mother Church of Ossory.  Copies are available at the church doors and on our parish website and facebook pages.

Irish Catholic Newspaper

The Irish Catholic newspaper is available to buy from the sacristan.  It costs €1.80 and is a good source of information for Catholics. 

Aware Support Group

For people with experience of stress, anxiety, depression and mood related conditions.  Free Service.  No referral need. No booking required.  St. Patrick’s Parish Centre.  Every Thursday at 7.30pm. 

Symphony of Songs

On next Thursday 29^th October at 7.30pm in St Canice’s Cathedral featuring: The City of Chester Male Voice Choir, Kilkenny Musical Society, Alan Hayes, Castlecomer Male Voice Choir, Aspiro Choir, Admission €15.  Tickets available from: KBC Bank, The Parade, Rollercoaster Records, Kieran Street.  All Proceeds to the Thomas Hayes Trust, providing ongoing counselling and supports for suicide awareness in the community.

South Kilkenny Historical Society Lecture

Date: Thursday, October 29th

Title: The Ordnance Mapping of Ireland

Speaker: Mr Richard Kirwan (former Director of Ordnance Survey Ireland). Venue: Mullinavat Parish Hall.  Time: 8.00pm. Admission €5.00.

Loughboy Library

Halloween Stories & Crafts for under 8s on Thursday 29^th October at 11.30am.

Mobile Phone, Computer, Laptop, Tablet training takes place on Fridays at 2.45pm from 6^th November.  No booking required.

Keep road safety in mind this weekend!

Papal Blessings

Papal blessing parchments to mark weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, jubilees and some other occasions are available through the Parish Shop. 

Please enquire at the reception desk in the Parish Centre.

There are lots of other items of a religious nature available at reasonable prices in our parish shop which is located in the Parish Center.

Thinking of Getting Married Soon?

Couples wishing to be married in our parish are asked to note the following:  Contact the Parish Office (776 4400) as early as possible to book your preferred date.  Bookings are on a first-come-first-served basis.  Please note that it is a civil requirement to inform the Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths of your intention to marry at least three months before the date - see www.gro.ie for more information about this aspect of preparations.

Contact the parish where you now reside where pre-marriage papers will be prepared for forwarding to the place of marriage. www.gettingmarried.ie is a useful source of information for couples as they plan the big day.

Mission Sunday, 18th October 2015

Mission Sunday - Abundant Life

Today is World Mission Sunday. The theme this  year is Abundant Life. As Christians each of us  has an obligation to spread the gospel of faith, hope and love in the world. From the time of Jesus Christ, it was the responsibility of His disciples to spread the Good News. He said to  them: “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned”. (Mark 16:15-16). We are very proud of our missionaries who  spread the Good News through their teaching and their witness to the Word of God. Charlie Bird said “I have met many Irish missionaries working among the poorest of the poor,  supporting migrant workers, helping victims of trafficking and maltreatment and also involved in environmental issues.” We can help them by praying for them and by providing funds. That  they be faithful to the mission of Jesus and  proclaim the good news.    See www.wmi.ie

Synod on the Family

At present the Synod on the Family is being held  in Rome. Pope Francis has asked for our  prayers:   Lord, you are the guide and  protector of your church. We implore you,  Lord, to fill your servants with a spirit of  understanding, truth and peace that they  may understand your will and may work diligently to bring it to fruition.  Amen.

Society of St. Vincent de Paul

The monthly collection for the parish conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul will take place at all Masses this weekend. Please support.

October Stations

We invite parishioners to contribute towards the income of the parish clergy and bishop through the October Stations.  Special envelopes can be found in the envelope contribution packs or you may use any envelope and mark it “Stations”.  The priests of the parish and bishop acknowledge with gratitude your contributions towards their upkeep.  Thank you.

Harvest Thanksgiving Mass

Our annual Harvest Thanksgiving Mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown at 10.00am on this Sunday, 18^th October. Together we give thanks to God for his goodness and especially for the produce of the harvest.

Monster Bingo for St. Mary’s Cathedral

A Monster Bingo with €15,000 prize money will be held in Cillín Hill, Kilkenny on this Sunday, 18^th October at 3.00pm in aid of St. Mary's Cathedral Restoration Fund.  Please support.

Crisis in Mental Health

On Tuesday, 3rd November at 8.00pm in St. Fiacre’s Church Dr. Fergus Heffernan will speak on The  Crisis in Mental Health in Ireland today. Proceeds to the Irish Pilgrimage Trust, bringing children with special needs to Lourdes at Easter 2016.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Christopher Carroll, Cashel Avenue. Requiem Mass at Bennekerry at 11.00am on Monday.  Mary Hehir, Waterford Road.  Maura Doheny, Ballycallan. Mary Breen, Gowran. Liam Nolan, Claddagh Court. Alice Rice, Castlecomer. John Butler, Castlecomer Road.  Chrissie Furlong, Wexford. Seamus Walsh, Dublin. Carmel Kealy, Ballyfoyle.

Months Mind: Eileen McGrath (Sun 10.30)

Anniversaries: Anthona & Ned Bourke (Sat 6.15). Ned Nolan (Sat 7.00). Gerard Cleere (Sun 9.30). Jennifer Mulhall (Sun 10.00). John Joe Kealy (Sun 11.00). Frank Stapleton (Sun 12.00). Paddy Cullen (Sun 12.30).  Bridgett Butler (Tues 10.30). Tony Adams (Fri 10.30). Helen Raftery (Sat 9.30). Eithne O’Connor. Nancy Coyne. Bill Cody.  Bernadette Dermody. Mick & Mai Brennan.  Julie Burke. Jack Cantwell. Michael Walsh.  Martin  & Ann Mulhall. David Doran.

Intentions for Next Weekend:  Breda Hehir (Sat 6.15). Sr. Alma Conway (Sat 7.00). Tom Foley (Sun 9.30). Joseph Eardly (Sun 10.00). Mary McCormack (Sun 10.30). Annie (Nancy) Tiernan (Sun 11.00). Billy Clune (Sun 12.00).  Henrietta Hyland (Sun 12.30).  

Readers of God’s Word in Church

The new readers rota is being prepared. We are particularly in need of readers for the 11.00am Mass in St. Patrick’s Church.  Anyone interested in proclaiming God’s Word at any of our Masses should contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400.

St. Patrick’s Adult Choir

Fill your hearts with joy!  Singing in a choir is a more effective way to improve your physical and mental wellbeing than taking part in a team sport, according to recent research. If you enjoy singing we’d be glad to welcome you along to enhance the mood with the Adult Choir in St. Patrick’s Church on Mondays at 6.45pm (or on Sundays at 11.00am). 

Christian Mediation

“Be still and know that I am God”  Psalm 46.

Christian Meditation has resumed in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 4.00pm each Wednesday. Newcomers welcome. 

Loughboy Library

Mobile phone and computer help is available on Fridays from 2.45 - 3.45pm.  Just drop in.

Halloween Storytime & Crafts for children takes place on Thursday 29^th October at 11.30am.

St Canice’s Parish Light of Hope Project

St Canice’s Parish Light of Hope Project continues on this Wednesday with the following events:

11.00am: Audio visual presentation on Pope Francis at St. Canice’s Parish Centre.

7.30pm: Cardinal Cormac Murphy O’Connor, former Archbishop of Westminster, on ‘Francis: A Witness to Mercy’.  Cardinal Cormac will reflect on  Francis’ ministry to date and what this Argentinean Pope means when he speaks of Mercy.

All are welcome.

Rosary at the Grotto

The rosary will be recited on each Sunday during October at The Grotto adjacent to Seville Lodge on the Callan Road at 3.00pm.  All are welcome.

Vocational School

Kilkenny City Vocational School welcome past and present staff, students, friends and their families to a Memorial Service on Friday, 23^rd October at 11.15am. Queries: Helen Duggan on 086 048 8922.

Evangelisation Outreach

A weekend retreat in Seville Lodge, Kilkenny on Friday 23^rd to 25^th October.  We invite you to join us with Fr. Kevin O’Boyle S.S.C., an experienced missionary who has worked in Chile for many years; he will help us to see the Holy Spirit in action.  This retreat is aimed at people who will respond to the call of Pope Francis to  “go out and wake up the world”.  Evangelisation Outreach is formed by adults and young people who come together for prayer and formation and become active in service to the Church in the Diocese of Ossory in sharing the “Joy of the Gospel”.  Further information Joe Bolger 087 252 7930, Mairin McGrath 087 621 1395, Geraldine Maher 086 108 5266.

Celebrating Religious Life in our Diocese

Sunday 29^th November at St. Kieran’s College from 12noon - 5.00pm concluding with Mass of Thanksgiving in St. Mary’s Cathedral at 5.30pm. 

Gardening Lecture

Lecture by Frances McDonald, Wexford Garden Tour Manager, on Thursday 22^nd of October at 8.00pm at Clubhouse Hotel. Entrance and Refreshments:  €7 All welcome.

Noreside Resource Centre

Free 8 hour basic computing course.  An ideal course for the elderly.  Noreside Resource Centre, 3 St Canice’s Court, Dean Street on 056 776 2146.

Parent to Parent

P2P is a peer support group for parents and carers of children with special needs. First Wednesday of the month in St. Patrick's Parish Centre from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Contact 087 904 0208 or 086 160 8341.

Lost Near St. Fiacre’s Church

A small brown envelope. Important!  056 776 4400.

Suicide Grief Awareness Programme

Kilkenny Bereavement Support is running a six week programme. Venue: Villa Maria, Talbot’s Inch, Freshford Road, Kilkenny. Time and Dates: 8.00pm on Tuesdays 20^th, 27^th October and 3^rd November.  Enquiries to Bereavement Support on 056 775 6538.

Papal Blessings

Papal blessing parchments to mark weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, jubilees and some other occasions are available through the Parish Shop. 

Please enquire at the reception desk in the Parish Centre.

There are lots of other items of a religious nature available at reasonable prices in our parish shop which is located in the Parish Center.

Thinking of Getting Married Soon?

Couples wishing to be married in our parish are asked to note the following:  Contact the Parish Office (776 4400) as early as possible to book your preferred date.  Bookings are on a first-come-first-served basis.  Please note that it is a civil requirement to inform the Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths of your intention to marry at least three months before the date - see www.gro.ie for more information about this aspect of preparations.

Contact the parish where you now reside where pre-marriage papers will be prepared for forwarding to the place of marriage. www.gettingmarried.ie is a useful source of information for couples as they plan the big day.

Suicide Grief Awareness Programme

Kilkenny Bereavement Support is running a six week programme. Venue: Villa Maria, Talbot’s Inch, Freshford Road, Kilkenny. Time and Dates: 8.00pm on Tuesdays 20^th, 27^th October and 3^rd November.  Enquiries to Bereavement Support on 056 775 6538.

Kilkenny Arch Club

Kilkenny Arch Club is a social club for Children aged between 6 and 14 years with extra support needs and their siblings. It runs on alternate Saturdays of school calendar year commencing Saturday 3rd Oct 11am to 1pm   in S.O.S. Sports hall, Seville lodge Callan Road. New members and new volunteers please phone Noreen @ 083  151 7217 or Frances @ 087 689 6211.  

28th Sunday in Ordinary Time, 11th October 2015

St. Canice - Patron of Kilkenny

St. Canice, patron of our City, is usually commemorated on 11^th October.  However as this falls on a Sunday this year the saint’s feast is not formally celebrated. 

St. Canice was born in Co. Derry in 515 or 516 and died in Aghaboe, Co. Laois in 600.  His father was a distinguished bard from Waterford who found his way to the north and settled at Glengiven.  His mother was called Maul; her name is commemorated in the Church of Thomplamaul in Kilkenny.  (St. Maul’s Cemetery is adjacent to the former hospital at Wolf Tone Street, Kilkenny).  St. Canice studied under St. Finian at Clonard and was ordained in 545.  He travelled to Rome and later to Scotland where his name is recalled in the ruins of a number of ancient churches.  He established a great abbey at Aghaboe in Co. Laois (in our diocese) and tradition asserts that he founded a monastery in Kilkenny by the round tower and cathedral which bears his name.  A man of great eloquence and learning he wrote a commentary on the Gospels, known for centuries as Glas-Channigh.

Harvest Thanksgiving Mass

St. Patrick’s Parish will host a Harvest Thanksgiving Mass at St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown at 10.00am on next Sunday, 18^th October.  The Mass will give thanks to God for his goodness and especially for the produce of the harvest. Parishioners are invited to bring suitable produce to the church between 6.00pm and 7.00pm on Saturday, 17th October.  This might consist of flowers, vegetables, fruit, grain, jams,  etc. to be used in decorating the environs and for presentation during the offertory procession.

October Stations

We invite parishioners to contribute towards the income of the parish clergy and bishop through the October Stations.  Special envelopes can be found in the envelope contribution packs or you may use any envelope and mark it “Stations”.

The priests of the parish and bishop acknowledge with gratitude your contributions towards their upkeep.  Thank you.

Foulkstown Cemetery

We ask people who visit Foulkstown Cemetery to note the following:

· Dumping is not permitted in the cemetery.

· Please bring home used wreaths etc and dispose of them in a proper manner.

· If you are driving into the cemetery, we ask you to be very careful to avoid damaging graves. This is a particular issue in the newer part of the cemetery where the roadway is narrow. 

· The Parish is not liable for any damages to cars or graves. 

If you do notice any suspicious activity or dumping please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400.

Future of Our Church

A final talk in this series will take place at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Monday, 12^th October: “Woman, the Elephant in the Church.” Speaker: Dr. Mary T Malone.  Adm: €10.  Mary T Malone is a challenging author and speaker and will raise some interesting questions.

Suicide Grief Awareness Programme

Kilkenny Bereavement Support is running a six week programme. Venue: Villa Maria, Talbot’s Inch, Freshford Road, Kilkenny. Time and Dates: 8.00pm on Tuesdays 13^th, 20^th, 27^th October and 3^rd November.  Enquiries to Bereavement Support on 056 775 6538.

Monster Bingo for St. Mary’s Cathedral

A Monster Bingo with €15,000 prize money will be held in Cillín Hill, Kilkenny on next Sunday, 18^th October at 3.00pm in aid of St. Mary's Cathedral Restoration Fund. Books €15 and €20. Single Sheets (3 in number) €2. Raffle tickets €2 or more.  This is a fundraiser for our diocesan cathedral and your support is requested.

A.C.T.S. Retreat

The A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Community, Theology, and Service) Retreat will take place on 15^th - 18^th October at the De La Salle Pastoral Centre, Castletown. See notices and application forms on our church notice boards.  For information text or call: Joseph Mahon 086 775 8709 or Jim Maher 086 127 6649. 

Date for your Diary!

On Tuesday, 3rd November at 8.00pm in St. Fiacre’s Church Dr. Fergus Heffernan will speak on The  Crisis in Mental Health in Ireland today. Proceeds to the Irish Pilgrimage Trust, bringing children with special needs to Lourdes at Easter 2016.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Joe Hennessy, Dunmore Road. John Johnston, Old Golf Links Road. Una Godfrey, Derry. Teresa Deacy, Rosses Point, Sligo. John Hogan, The Sycamores.  Sr. Ailís Phelan, Holy Family Convent, Newbridge and formerly of Windgap.

Anniversaries: Tom O’Neill (Sat 6.15). Judy O’Brien (Sat 7.00). Richard Kelly (Sun 10.00). Eddie Dean (Sun  10.30).  Nicola Conway  (Sun 11.00). Della Harney (Sun 12.00). Joanie Waters (Sun 12.30). Gary & Nora Dunne (Wed 10.30). Kay Doran (Thurs 10.30). Stella O’Rourke (Fri 10.30). Michael Dollard & Family.  Sr Gregory Ryan. Jimmy Bateman. Mary Dunne.  Margaret McNamara. Mary O’Brien. Michael O’Leary. Paul Grace.  Patrick Tynan. Eileen Barry. Tom  O’Neill. Billy Maher.

Intentions for Next Weekend: Anthona & Ned Bourke (Sat 6.15). Ned Nolan (Sat 7.00). Gerard Cleere (Sun 9.30). Jennifer Mulhall (Sun 10.00). Eileen McGrath (Months Mind Sun 10.30). John Joe Kealy (Sun 11.00). Frank Stapleton (Sun 12.00). Paddy Cullen (Sun 12.30). 

May they rest in peace.  Amen.

Westcourt News

The monthly Mass to pray for the intercession of Blessed Edmund Rice in our lives and for his canonisation will take place in Westcourt on Monday, 12^th October at 7.30pm.  Please note the change of date. 

October is Month of the Missions

The Church by constitution is missionary but this aspect of her life is especially emphasised during October every year.  Next Sunday is Mission Sunday when we are encouraged to pray for the missionary activity of the Church and to offer a little financial assistance to the younger churches in the world..  World Missions Ireland offers spiritual and practical support worldwide.  www.wmi.ie

St Canice’s Parish Light of Hope Project

Wednesday, 14th October:

10.00am - 12.30pm: Workshop for Confirmation Classes and Secondary School Students on Third World issues in St Canice’s Parish Centre.

1.00pm: Soup and Solidarity; a simple lunch and Prayer Service with blessing of second Light of Hope Candle in St Canice’s Parish Centre.

7.30pm: Keynote Address by Mr Conor O’ Loughlin, Humanitarian Director Trocaire.

Music by Sospiro Male Voice Choir, Refreshments served afterwards in Parish Centre.

St. Joseph’s Abbey

A retreat at Mount St. Joseph’s Abbey, Roscrea takes place on 16^th to 18^th October. Presentations by Dom Laurence Walsh, former Abbot of Mount St. Joseph and by M. Marie Fahy, Abbess of St. Mary’s Abbey, Glencairn. Contact Eileen on 0505 25600 between 2.00 and 7.00pm, Monday to Friday or email info@msjroscrea.ie.

Bake Sale and Coffee Morning

At. St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on this Sunday, 11^th October after 10.30am and 12 noon Masses at St. Fiacre’s Church.  In aid of Loreto Secondary School Public Assess to Law Team.  All are welcome. 

Care for our Common Home

The Association of Catholics in Ireland is hosting a discussion  on the recent encyclical from Pope Francis Laudato si (on the Care for our Environment) on Thursday, 15^th October at 8.00pm in the Parish Centre, Leighlinbridge. Speakers: Fr. Sean McDonagh SSC.  All welcome.

Christian Mediation

“Be still and know that I am God”  Psalm 46.

Christian Meditation has resumed in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 4.00pm each Wednesday. Newcomers welcome. 

Cooking for Seniors

Join us at School of Food, Thomastown on Friday, 16th October for our Cooking for Seniors morning. Contact: 056 775 4397  or info@schooloffood.ie

Parent to Parent

P2P is a peer support group for Parents and carers of Children with special needs. It is held on the first Wednesday of the month in St.Patrick's Parish Centre Loughboy from 10.30am to 12.30 p.m. Children most welcome. Runs during school calendar year. Contact Therese @ 0879040208 or Claire @ 0861608341

Kilkenny Arch Club

Kilkenny Arch Club is a social club for Children aged between 6 and 14 years with extra support needs and their siblings. It runs on alternate Saturdays of school calendar year commencing Saturday 3rd Oct 11am to 1pm   in S.O.S. Sports hall, Seville lodge Callan Road. We are looking for new members and new volunteers please phone Noreen @ 083  151 7217 or Frances @ 087 6896211.  

Noreside Resource Centre

Free 8 hour basic computing course.  An ideal course for the elderly.  Further information please contact, Noreside Resource Centre, 3 St Canice’s Court, Dean Street, Kilkenny or telephone 056 7762146.

Loughboy Library

Mobile Phone Tips for the Elderly covering phones, PCs, laptops, ipads, ipods, facebook etc will take place on Fridays from 2.45-3.45pm commencing on Oct 16^th.  Just drop in.

Vocational School

Kilkenny City Vocational School welcome past and present staff, students, friends and their families to a memorial service on Friday 23rd October @11.15am. This is to honour all in the school community who have passed away. Any queries please contact Helen Duggan on 086 048 8922

Papal Blessings

Papal blessing parchments to mark weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, jubilees and some other occasions are available through the Parish Shop. 

Please enquire at the reception desk in the Parish Centre.

There are lots of other items of a religious nature available at reasonable prices in our parish shop which is located in the Parish Center.

 

Thinking of Getting Married Soon?

Couples wishing to be married in our parish are asked to note the following:  Contact the Parish Office (776 4400) as early as possible to book your preferred date.  Bookings are on a first-come-first-served basis.  Please note that it is a civil requirement to inform the Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths of your intention to marry at least three months before the date - see www.gro.ie for more information about this aspect of preparations.

Contact the parish where you now reside where pre-marriage papers will be prepared for forwarding to the place of marriage. www.gettingmarried.ie is a useful source of information for couples as they plan the big day.