Fifth Sunday of Easter, 20th April 2008

Cornered by the stone
Today’s Second Reading (1 Pet 2:4-9) describes Jesus as a stumbling stone for those who do not believe. Could that include anybody who harbours disbelief – even believers? I think so. Following Jesus is a very varied venture. When he calls us to follow him he doesn’t specify the distance. That’s up to us. And the temptation is to start measuring – especially the closer we get to him. From a distance, everything Jesus stands for is great. How could any decent human being not be for what Jesus is for: love of God, love of neighbour, especially the weak, the exploited and those on the margins of society and even sanity? But how close to that loving do we want to get and how close do we actually get? In his book, God of Surprises, Gerard W. Hughes writes: ‘There is a foolish prodigality, too, in the Father who is presented as leaving the ninety-nine sheep to go and hunt for the one that is lost, a foolishness which we so often correct in the Church by concentrating our attention and energies on the one which is safe and leaving the ninety-nine!’
There is no detour. That stumbling stone has us cornered. We must face it in the one who is lost, or become lost ourselves.
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD

Questions people ask
Q. On a recent radio programme, the Pope was called the Antichrist. What does this name mean or where did it come from?
The Antichrist is mentioned in the First Letter of John. The name means one who is opposed to Jesus Christ and denies that he is the Son of God. It is not entirely clear whether John was referring to some particular individual or to unbelievers in general. Fundamentalist sects who carry an anti-Catholic bigotry claim that the term refers to the Pope. This is absolute nonsense, because, whatever faults Popes have had, none of them ever denied the divinity of Jesus Christ.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Common Vocation
The Irish Church is marking the next 12 months as the 'Year of Vocation'.
Note the word vocation is in the singular. Why? Because the aim of the Year of Vocation is to raise awareness of the common vocation that we all share through baptism as expressed through witness, love and service. Within each of these themes and throughout 2008-2009, the specific vocations of marriage, the religious life, the single life and priesthood will be highlighted and promoted.
Some highlights of the year will include: a national prayer campaign for students at examination time; a rally for World Youth Day to coincide with the events in Sydney; and collaboration with the national pilgrimage centres to reflect on the theme of vocation during their seasons.
A key objective of this year’s initiative is for the vocation message to reach as wide an audience as possible so that people will be challenged to discern and explore their own specific vocation in life.
Let’s hope we will have the courage and strength to promote the Christian Vocation through our personal witness, love and service to others.

Life in the Spirit Seminar
These weekly seminars continue in Castlecomer until Tuesday, 13th May. Mass and Prayers in the Church of the Immaculate Conception each Tuesday at 8pm. Speakers to include: Eddie Stones, Fr. Thady Doyle, Fr. Killian Byrne, Mary Curran, Fr. Leo McAuliffe, Noel Byrne and Fr. Martin Tobin. All welcome.

Church Door Collection
The annual church door collection for children with special educational needs in Ossory will be taken up this weekend. The money collected is targeted for special needs projects which require additional funding to be raised locally.

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Geraldine Carroll, 8 Haltigan Terrace. Martin Hoyne, 6 Laurel Court. Nancy Webster, Cheshire. Charlotte Lee, Roscrea (Thurs 10.30). Peg Gorey, Bennettsbridge. Nicholas Hyland, England.
Months Mind: Michael Brannigan (Sat 7.00)
Anniversaries: James Phelan (Sat 6.15), Margaret Banahan (Sun 9.30), Joe Brennan (Sun 10.00), Michael Gaule (Sun 10.30), Betty Byrne (Sun 11.00), Tom & Jim Phelan (Sun 12.00), John Hennessy (Mon 9.30), Kathleen McAvinia (Tues 9.30), Henrietta Hyland (Fri 9.30), William Maher, Kitty O’Keeffe, Brigid Kelly, Andrew O’Neill, Mary Muldowney, Eileen Hickey, Kate Coyne, Kitty Cleere, Mary Crotty.
Intentions for Next Weekend: Paddy Tomney (Sat 6.15 Months Mind); Patrick & Ellen Moran (Sat 7.00), Pierce Anthony Grace (Sun 10.00), Private Intention (Sun 10.30), Joan & Anthony Nolan (Sun 11.00), Mary & Eddie O’Keeffe (Sun 12.00)

St. Vincent De Paul Collection
The monthly collection for the local conference of the St. Vincent De Paul Society has been postponed until next weekend. Please be generous go this local charity.

Brass and Reed Concert
The St. Patrick's Brass and Reed Band will play sacred music at the 12 noon Mass in St. John's Church on Sunday, 27th of April to commemorate the centenary of the Church. As part of the band’s 125th anniversary year the members will perform a free concert at 3pm in McDonagh Junction Shopping Centre. All are welcome.

Medjugorje Youth Group
Young people are invited to come to St. Mary’s Cathedral between 7 and 9pm on next Friday to hear Br. Shaun O’Connor of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal address the group. Br. Shaun lives and works in Moyross, Limerick.

Contribution Envelopes
Thanks to many volunteers who have helped prepare and deliver our contribution envelope most homes will have received their new pack by now. Please note your identification number may have changed and we ask that you dispose of any old stock of envelopes and begin using the new ones. This will enable us to record your contributions more accurately.
There are a number of reasons why you may not have received your envelope pack. Please contact the sacristies after Mass or the presbytery during the coming week if you require a contribution pack.
Thanks to all who continue to support the parish in this way.

Easter Time
The celebration of Easter is prolonged throughout the Easter Season. The fifty days from Easter Sunday to Pentecost Sunday are celebrated as one feast day, the ‘Great Sunday’.
The Sundays of this season are regarded as Sundays of Easter and are so termed - this weekend we celebrate the Fifth Sunday of Easter. These Sundays have precedence over all feasts of the Lord and over all other solemnities.

Trócaire Boxes
This year’s Trócaire Family Fast boxes should be returned to the churches as soon as possible. Alternatively send the money by cheque to Trócaire, Maynooth, Co. Kildare.

Handel's Messiah
The Kilkenny Choir will perform Handel’s Messiah in St. Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny on Sunday, 27th April at 8pm. The choir will be accompanied by a Professional Orchestra and Lynda Lee (Soprano), Tanya Sewell (Alto), John Elwes (Tenor) and Owen Gilhooly (Bass). All conducted by Karl Rochford. Tickets €20 (€16 concession) available at the door.

The Parish Draw
During the past few years your support for the parish draw has raised €337,000 for the parish coffers. Well done and thanks. Some of the fruits of your work became visible during the week as hoarding was removed from the site adjacent to St. Fiacre’s Church.
As we approach the opening of the new development we must continue to raise funds to reduce our borrowings and to save on interest payments. A new run of the parish draw begins this month and we are appealing to you to help make it the most successful to date. Please consider becoming a promoter and taking a card or two – each card brings a value of €3,000 for the parish when interest is taken into account. You might also consider becoming a subscriber and encouraging others to do likewise. It is you, generous subscribers, who make the draw a success each year.
The draw takes place on the last Tuesday of the month, starting on the 29th April, and continuing until March next year. The monthly prize fund is €2,000 and subscription is just €10.00 per month. If you can help us please contact the Presbytery at 776 4400 and we will provide further information.

Scotland
A trip to Scotland will take place from Monday, 5th to Friday, 9th May. If anyone is interested please contact Mary 776 5014.

Pope Benedict in America
Pope Benedict marked his 81st birthday and the third anniversary of his election as Pope during his pastoral visit to the United States this week. In a talk to American bishops, he said that the sexual abuse of minors was a “countersign” to the Gospel of Life and is a cause of “deep shame”. He asked the bishops “to bind up the wounds caused by every breach of trust, to foster healing, to promote reconciliation and to reach out with loving concern to those so seriously wronged.” The Holy Father added that “truly caring about young people and the future of our civilisation means recognising our responsibility to promote and live by the authentic moral values which alone enable the human person to flourish”.

Could it be you?
· Would you be willing to offer your life in the service of others?
· Do you think there could be more to life than what you are at right now?
· Could the life of a priest or religious be the way for you?
Contact any priest or religious to discuss your options. Further information available on www.vocations.ie or contact:
Fr. Paddy Carey, The Presbytery, Erril, Rathdowney, Co. Laois. Tel: 0505 44973
Bishop Séamus Freeman at 056 776 2448

Fourth Sunday of Easter. Vocations Sunday. 13th April 2008

Life: Full and Free
When I worked in Indonesia as a missionary, a priest friend one day introduced a Chinese friend of his to me in the following manner: ‘This is so-and-so. He’s not Christian yet, he’s still free’. I couldn’t believe my ears. How could anyone think that being a Christian limited your freedom! Now, my friend may have thought he was being funny or subtle, but if so it was lost to me.
But his words did strike home. I wonder how many people actually think that religion cramps their style. And I also wonder what such people would want to do that they couldn’t do by being a Christian – particularly in the light of today’s Gospel (John 10. 1-10) where Jesus tells us that he has come to bring life in all its fullness. However, it doesn’t come pre-packed. It has to be worked on and worked with. Living as Jesus wants us to, leads to a full life. His Way is a precious gift, not a wearisome burden. It empowers, it doesn’t enslave. But all the talk in the world won’t convince anybody, if we who are on that Way don’t show its fullness in our life through joy, maturity, generosity, courage and hope.
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD

Questions people ask
Every now and then I think I have a vocation from God to be a priest. What should I do about it?
Talk about it to a priest, preferably on who knows you, and pray to the Holy Spirit for guidance. Every diocese and religious order organises Vocation Days to help people to discern their calling. A vocation to priesthood is a grace given to an individual for the service of the church-community. Basic requirements of a genuine vocation to priesthood would include a desire to commit ones life to God and the service of people, a sound faith, regular Mass attendance and prayer, the ability to co-operate with others and being willing to obey authority.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Pray for our Deceased
Recently deceased: Ann Treacy, Paulstown. Mary Nolan, Portlaw.
Months Mind: Eamonn O’Toole (Sat 6.15)
Anniversaries: Sr. Ann Holohan (Sat 7.00), Ellen Pattison (Sun 9.30), Josephine O’Neill (Sun 10.00), Michael O’Reilly (Sun 11.00), Michael & Mary Burke (Sun 12.00), Michael Malone (Sun 12.30), Patrick Morris (Fri 9.30), Thomas Fry, Michael Burke, Elizabeth Geoghegan, Adrian Bligh, Billy Nugent, Patrick Delaney, Maisie Keogh, Christina Walsh, Margaret Brennan, Patrick Skehan, Bridget Cantwell, Elizabeth Hennessey, Johnny Cullen, Catherine Cullen, Helen & John Roberts, Tobias Butler
Anniversaries next weekend: James Phelan (Sat 6:15), Michael Brannigan (Months Mind Sat 7:00), Margaret Banahan (Sun 9:30), Michael Gaule (Sun 10:30), Tom & Jim Phelan (Sun 12:00).

Lisbon Treaty
How does it change things?
There will be a talk in the Clubhouse Hotel, Kilkenny on Tuesday April 15th at 8pm. Guest Speaker: Anthony Coughlan. All welcome.

Divine Mercy
In honour of Divine Mercy, there will be an hour of prayer in St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday April 13th from 3pm - 4pm. All are welcome.

Vita Ethiopian Challenge
In October 2008 the inaugural trip to visit Vita projects in Ethiopia will take place. This trip is designed to introduce you to the many faces of Ethiopia and the difficulties faced by its people. Its purpose is to challenge your views of the developing world, to promote a better understanding of the work of Vita and to see what can be achieved with your support. This trip will take you to see some of the wonders of ancient Ethiopian civilisations. You will also visit modern developed Ethiopia and be able to compare this with the areas of the country in great need of sustainable livelihoods development which form the major part of this trip...The cost of taking on this challenge is €4750: this includes your flights, accommodation, meals, internal transport and support for the Vita programmes that you will visit. For further information please contact Jenny Douglas in Vita on 01 8820108 or email jenny.douglas@vita.ie

St Patrick’s Parish Draw - April 08 –March 09
The Parish Team, together with the Parish Finance Committee, has decided to continue the Parish Draw for a further twelve months, starting this month. The draw offers us the opportunity of raising a substantial sum of money towards the cost of our new Parish Centre, thereby reducing our borrowing requirement and saving on interest payments. Through the dedicated work of our group of promoters and the generosity of our subscribers, the last three draws have contributed €337,000 to the Parish Centre. In addition , €72,000 has been paid out in prize money, almost all of it locally.
To maximise the income from the draw we are appealing for extra promoters to promote the draw in their neighbourhood, workplace or family. Every draw card that’s filled with ten names is worth €1,200 to the Parish and when saving on interest is taken into account it is nearer to 3,000 in value.
Will you help us to make this year’s draw the most successful to date? In return, you will have two chances of winning €50.00 each month in a draw confined to promoters as well as a free draw on the night of the draw for a small prize, open to all who attend the draw. More important, you will have the satisfaction of helping your community realise the dream of having a Parish Centre worthy of our Parish and its people. The draw takes place on the last Tuesday of the month, starting on the 29th April, and continuing until March next year. The monthly prize fund is €2,000 and subscription is just €10.00 per month. If you can help us by becoming a promoter, please contact the Presbytery at 776 4400 in the next couple of days and we will send you draw cards and further information.

Vocations Sunday
This Sunday is dedicated to praying for and supporting vocations to the priesthood and religious life. We pray in a special way for those men and women from our parish and throughout our country who have felt the call of God to be His ministers but who have to realise this call.
This Sunday also begins a year of prayer for vocations and so, for the coming year special prayers will be offered at all our masses praying for vocations to God’s Church.
Also throughout the year on the newsletter we will publish reflections and articles relating to priesthood which we hope you will find interesting.
If anyone is interested in finding our more about priesthood and religious life they can contact our vocations director, Fr. Paddy Carey (Address on back) or talk to any of the priests.
Priesthood, it’s a different kind of White Collar Job.


StPatrick’s Parish Centre
By now you’ll all be familiar with the development that is taking place on the site adjacent to St. Fiacre’s Church Loughboy. Now that the hoarding has been partially taken down it’s easy to see the size of the development that has been undertaken. There’s so much in one small space, no one can ever accuse us of doing things by half measure. We are developing nine houses for the elderly, a new state-of-the-art parish centre and a new presbytery.
Work is progressing well and, please God we will be ready to move into the centre and houses sometime in the middle to late summer.
Before all that happens though there is a lot of work to be done. We are currently putting in place a charitable trust to oversee the planning and running of the new centre. At this stage we would like to hear once again from groups that may be interested in using the halls and meeting rooms. If your group is one of these then please send your groups/committees details to Fr. Liam at the presbytery. Please give a detailed account of what you do, how many people you cater for, the size of the room/hall you need and a name and contact number.
Please note that we don’t know when the Parish Centre will be ready for use. We are hoping for September or October to start renting rooms for use but it could be later. We will write more on this in the coming weeks. Any suggestions or comments about the hall or any part of our development is welcome. Contact any of the priests for further details.

Our Website
We have published a new website for the parish at www.patricksparish.com and we welcome any feedback that people might have. Each week we publish the newsletter on the web to allow people living away to keep up to date with what’s happening. In the coming weeks we will publish a parish vocations page with advice and further information for those who are considering a vocation to priesthood.
Any comments or suggestions are of course welcome.


Considering a vocation to the priesthood or religious life? Want to learn more?

Our Vocations Director: Rev Paddy Carey, Erril Co. Laois 0505 44973

Our Bishop: Most Rev. Seamus Freeman, Sion House, Kilkenny 056 7762448 email: bishop@ossory.ie

Contact any of the priests in our parish.
Or Visit: www.vocations.ie

Third Sunday of Easter, 6th April 2008

Parish Confirmation
Congratulations to the young people from St. John of God Girls’ NS, St. Patrick’s de la Salle Boys’ NS and Kilkenny School Project who received the Sacrament of Confirmation today. The occasion was a wonderful experience.
Well done to the teachers who worked so hard to prepare the children for this sacrament.
Sincere thanks to Bishop Seamus Freeman who was the main celebrant

Getting it right
Resurrection depends on dying – but of the right kind. For there are two kinds: one that brings on death, and one that brings on life. In his book, The Seed and the Sower, Laurens van der Post describes the former: ‘Death is not something that happens at the end of our life. It is imprisonment in one moment of time, confinement in one sharp uncompromising deed or aspect of ourselves. Death is exclusion from renewal of our present-day selves.’ Sound familiar? Something bad happens and we never free ourselves from its murky memory, or its corrosive touch. In a moment of madness something evil, or stupid, is done. That moment must not destroy a life. The two travellers in today’s Gospel (Lk 24. 13-35) discover this. A ‘moment’ of collective madness had killed their Messiah and shattered their world. They could have slumped into despair and cowered in mediocrity. But no! They were dying to their disbelief by pondering news some women had brought that the Messiah was alive. They were dying to their confusion by opening to Jesus’ explanation of the scriptures. They were dying to despair in the friendship of breaking bread together. That dying led to their resurrection, their renewal. And, renewed, they returned immediately to where they had left – no longer afraid of the dark.
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD

I Am Special
God has made me to
serve him in a particular
way. He has give me
some work to do that He
has not given to anyone
else. I have my mission—
I may never know it in
this life, but I will be told
it in the next.

I am a link in a chain,
connected to the other
members of God’s
family. God has made
me special and unique
and I will do good things
for him. I will do his work.
Everywhere I am
and in everything I do,
I will be his witness.
Adapted from a Meditation from Cardinal Newman; presented to those confirmed this weekend
by Bishop Seamus Freeman.

Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place on Friday, 11th April 2008, in St. Fiacre’s Church, immediately after the 10.30 Mass. All are welcome.

Rosary
The monthly rosary on the first Sunday in James Green at the statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny continues this Sunday, 6th April at 3pm. All are welcome to come along and join in prayer.

Westcourt News
The April Mass for the canonisation of Blessed Edmund Rice will be celebrated in Westcourt on Monday, April 7th at 7.30pm. The members of the L’Arche Community are preparing the liturgy for this Mass. All are cordially invited to join in this special celebration.

Questions People Ask
Q. On the road to Emmaus, Jesus explained the passages from scripture that were about himself. Where can I find a list of these passages?
A. I don’t know of any particular list but here are some passages which would certainly be included. Read Isaiah, Chapters 40-55, containing four great poems about the Suffering Servant of God. Many of the regulations about the sacrifice of the Paschal Lamb were fulfilled in the death of Jesus. Several verses in the psalms anticipated his passion: ‘They have pierced my hands and feet, they have numbered all my bones... Even my friend, who ate my bread, has turned against me... My God, my God, why have you forsaken me.’
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Creidim
Talk by Most Rev. Seamus Freeman SAC, Bishop of Ossory.
Date Wednesday, April 16th
Time: 8.00pm
Venue: St. Kieran’s College
Booking Essential
Contact Leona Connolly at 056 7720261

Thank You from Trócaire
Trocaire would like to sincerely thank everyone for their support and generosity during its Lenten Campaign and throughout the year. The contributions received make a huge difference in Trocaire's work building long-term solutions to poverty overseas. Please remember to return your Trocaire box to your local parish or directly to Trócaire at Maynooth, Co. Kildare.

Kilkenny Flower Club
The Kilkenny Flower Club will hold a meeting next Thursday, 10th April at 8pm in Butler House, Patrick Street.
There will be a flower arranging demonstration by Helen Dooley. All are welcome to attend.

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Shane O’Neill, Racecourse; Patrick Holohan, Dean Cavanagh Place; Elizabeth Dunphy, The Rower. Shane Kelly; Dan Bourke, Killenaule.
Anniversaries: Michael O’Sullivan (Sat 6.15), Denis Kavanagh (Sat 7.00), Frank Harrington (Sun 9.30), Sean Fleming & Joan Aherne (Sun 10.00), Margaret & William J Phelan (Sun 11.00), Mary & Katie Mullally (Sun 12.00), Dick Keating (Sun 12.30), Sheila (Daisy) Ramsbottom (Mon 9.30), John & Mary Conway (Tues 10.30), Johnny Cullen, Catherine Cullen, Michael Fleming, William Wallace, Michael Malone, Joe, Kathleen, Teresa & Mary Brennan, Michael Bolger, Paddy Cleere, Mai McCann, Kitty Kelly, Peggy Egan, Paschal Egan, Patricia Massey, Mary & Katie Mulally, Patrick & Brigid Hickey, Kathleen Daly, Kathleen Esmonde.
Intentions for next weekend:
Eamon O’Toole (Sat 6.15 Month’s Mind), Sr. Ann Holohan (Sat 7.00), Ellen Pattison (Sun 9.30), Josephine O’Neill (Sun 10.00), Michael O’Reilly (Sun 11.00), Michael Malone (Sun 12.30).

Envelope Distributors
Sincere thanks to all who distribute envelopes for us each year. This work allows us reach many of our parishioners. Due to some distributors retiring there are a number of areas which now need people to distribute envelopes. These areas are:
Haltigan Terrace Maiden Hill
The Paddocks Wetlands
Callan Road College Road
Tennypark Kells Road
Upper Patrick St Parkmore
Rathmore Larchfield Court
Dean’s Court Waterford Road
Bennettsbridge Rd Clongowan
Westfield College Gardens
Cedarwood Close Shellumsrath
If anyone can help us with these areas then please contact Fr. Liam at the Presbytery 056 776 4400.

Run For Your Parish
Ladies, don’t forget the Flora Ladies’ Mini-Marathon on Bank Holiday Monday, 2nd June 2008. Please contact Fr. Roderick if you are interested in participating on behalf of the parish. Sponsorship cards available. While we need ladies to run in the mini-marathon parishioners may take sponsorship cards and we will get someone else to run in their name. Proceeds will go towards the new seniors’ accommodation at St. Fiacre’s Church.

St. Rioch’s Cemetery
Tom Reade has produced an interesting and fact-filled book on St. Rioch’s Graveyard, Gaol Road. The book is available from Tom at 32 St. Fiacre’s Place and in local libraries and bookshops. At €8 it is an excellent investment for those interested in local history.

First Friday Visits
The priests visit the house bound every first Friday or by alternative arrangement. Please contact the Presbytery if you, or someone known to you, would like to be included.
We can also arrange to have a Eucharistic Minister to visit with Communion on a more regular basis.

Team Meeting
Members of the Parish Team are asked to attend a meeting at the Presbytery at 8.00pm on Thursday evening.

Lap Dancing Club
A group of people opposed to this development in our historic and beautiful city has organised a peaceful protest each Friday from 8.30pm - 10.30pm. This is a community effort to try and ensure the closure of this club which is demeaning to both men and women. More volunteers are needed to extend this peaceful protest to Saturday night also. If you are interested in helping out, please contact 087 785 3614 or 086 205 2488.

Pray for Vocations
We celebrate Vocations Sunday next weekend. The priesthood is a calling or a life, not simply one occupation among many that a man might choose. This means that the priest has been called by God and given the gift of God, that, the grace to accomplish his work. ‘Fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands… God has saved us and called us to a holy life - not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.’ (2 Tim 1:6, 9). Contact a priest for information.

Second Sunday of Easter 30th March 2008

No doubt about it
In his book, Sing a New Song, Timothy Radcliffe, OP states: ‘But if I speak as someone who knows it all, untroubled by doubt, then people may be very impressed by my knowledge, but they may feel it has little to do with them.’ Doubt is more engaging than certainty. Doubt explores. Certainty can’t. How can you journey if you’ve already arrived? Certainty degrades dialogue to monologue. It proselytizes instead of evangelizes. It stymies communication by making it confrontational or by short-circuiting it altogether. Thomas, in today’s Gospel (John 20:19.31) is a fine example of the doubter feeling his way to belief – quite literally: ‘...unless I put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe’ (v.25). Thomas was comfortable with his disbelief because it was sincere. He had a healthy aversion to accepting the seemingly preposterous. Many people, especially those in authority or those considered to be authorities, are uneasy with doubt. Doubt, for them, excludes God’s Spirit. It instills fear instead of the thrill of the chase. Doubt means weakness not potential growth. One wonders if those who find if difficult to say: ‘I don’t know’, find it easier to say: ‘My Lord, and my God!’
Fr Tom Cahill SVD

Questions people ask
Why is there a circle like a halo on the Celtic Cross?
The cross represents death while the circle, being a line without beginning or end, represents eternal life. The bare cross has lines coming in from all directions, clashing at the centre. In this view, Jesus is the innocent victim at the centre of the storm stirred up by envy, political ambition, misplace nationalism, betrayal etc... If one views the cross as lines coming out from the centrepoint, then it portrays the explosion of new life that was the resurrection. This was the understanding of the Celtic monks, so they added the circle of eternity to the cross.
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Shane O’Neill, Danesfort. Elizabeth Dunphy, The Rower.
Anniversaries: Oliver Kelly (Sat 6:15), Chris Kenny (Sat 7:00), Kathleen Carolan (Sun 9:30), Michael McInerney (Sun 11:00), Kitty Kelly (Sun 12:00), Billy Wallace (Sun 12:30), Mary Delaney (Mon 9:30), Margaret Nolan (Mon 10:30), Michael Slattery (Tues 9:30), Mai McCann, Paddy Cantwell, Annie & Dick Burke, Patrick Massey, Paddy Slattery, Brigid Maher.
Anniversaries Next Weekend: Michael O’Sullivan (Sat 6:15), Denis Kavanagh (Sat 7:00), Seán Fleming & Joan Ahearne (Sun 10:00), Mgt & William Phelan (Sun 11:00), Dick Keating (Sun 12:30).

Parish Envelopes
The parish envelopes for the coming year (April 2008 to March 2009), have just arrived and distribution will begin shortly.
The envelopes and direct debits are the main source of income for the parish and we are extremely grateful to all who contribute in this way. With the new Parish Centre about to come on stream we need all the financial help we can get.
Parishioners will already know that we can reclaim from the Revenue Commissioners the tax already paid on donations to the parish over €250 per annum (€5 per week). This is at no extra cost to you and is worth a lot of money to the parish.
If you haven’t used the parish envelopes in the past couple of years, there is a chance you may not receive a box this time round. If you don’t receive a box by the end of April, then get in touch and we’ll sort things out.
We need volunteers to help drop the boxes off at homes throughout the parish. Please contact Fr. Liam if you can help in your area.

Trocaire
Family Fast Boxes may be returned directly to Trócaire or handed in at the churches in our parish. The money collated is sent to Trócaire via the Diocesan Office.

Run For Your Parish
Ladies, don’t forget the Flora Ladies’ Mini-Marathon on Bank Holiday Monday, 2nd June 2008. Please contact Fr. Roderick if you are interested in participating on behalf of the parish. Sponsorship cards available. While we need ladies to run in the mini-marathon parishioners may take sponsorship cards and we will get someone else to run in their name. Proceeds will go towards the new seniors’ accommodation at St. Fiacre’s Church

Easter Collection
Many thanks to all who contributed to the Easter/Special collection for the support of the priests of the parish and our bishop. It is the last of the green envelopes in your current contribution box.

Sorry
Due to lack of space, we are unable to include some items this week.

Divine Mercy Sunday
This Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday. A celebration of the Divine Mercy will take place in the Friary Church this Sunday from 2-5pm. It will include mass which will be celebrated by Bishop Seámus Freeman. All are welcome

Eucharistic Ministers
If you haven’t done so already, please collect your new rota from the sacristies. If you minister in St. Patrick’s your rota is in St. Patrick’s, St. Fiacre's…

Parish Confirmation
Our parish schools will celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation next Saturday in St. Mary’s Cathedral at 11am. We wish all our students receiving this sacrament the very best

Our Parish Draw
Many and sincere thanks to all who have been so faithful to the parish draw in the past. As you will have already gathered we are continuing the draw for another year. The new draw will begin in April.
The last draw which is just finished brought in €115000 for the parish a huge amount of money and badly needed as we continue to build our new parish centre.
For our new draw we are looking for new promoters to promote the draw in their area and among family and friends. Promoting doesn’t take much time or effort but the results are amazing and the more we fundraise now the less our debt will be in the future.
If you are not currently a promoter and think you could help, then please contact any of the priests or Ted Byrne.
Thanks to Ted and all our current promoters for all their efforts. More next week.

Palm Sunday 16th March 2008

Palming Off Bread
Mahatma Gandhi once said that the only form in which God dare appear to a starving man is in the form of bread. A startling statement indeed! But is it true? Not entirely, because it doesn’t go far enough. It stops at the ‘incarnation’ of bread. Today’s second reading goes all the way. It tells of Jesus, who – though in the form of God – empties himself to become a slave. No salvation from a distance here. Furthermore, the God-man then humbles himself and accepts death on a cross – not to provide a starving man with bread, but to offer him eternal life.
What that reading tells us is truly awesome and frightening. It’s awesome because it’s so up-front about God. Not only does it challenge us to believe in God’s existence, it presents that God as so besotted by love for humanity that he becomes one of us – compounding to the ninth degree any difficulties we might have with God’s existence in the first place. It’s frightening because it doesn’t try to make things easy. No half-measures with God. Appearing as bread is comprehensible. But appearing as another starving man is breathtaking. God became one of us. How closely do we identify with those who starve?
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD

Questions People Ask
Q. Why was it necessary that Christ should undergo such a brutal death?
A. The necessity was a consequence of the total love of Jesus, entering into solidarity with all who suffer in any way. He suffered brutal physical violence and the injustice of a sham trial. He felt the sadness of leaving his mother and the disappointment of betrayal and desertion by chosen friends. Most painful was the darkness of alienation from God which is the ultimate pain of sin. Jesus did not remove suffering from the world, but he entered into all forms of suffering so that all who suffer might be strengthened by his presence. ‘Having loved those who were his in the world, he loved them to the end.’
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Cyril Thornett, 3 The Dell, Dukesmeadows: Prayers at Johnston’s Funeral Home at 6.15pm on Sunday followed by removal to St. John’s Church. Requiem Mass at 10.30am on Monday followed by private cremation.
Eamonn O’Toole, 81 Larchfield. Prayers at his home at 5pm on Sunday evening followed by removal to St. Fiacre’s Church. Requiem Mass at 11am on Monday followed by burial at Foulkstown Cemetery.
Michael Brannigan, 11 St. Patrick’s Close. Prayers at Hehir’s Funeral Home at 7 pm on Monday followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church. Requiem Mass at 11am on Tuesday followed by burial at Foulkstown Cemetery. Rosary at the funeral home at 9pm on Sunday. Paddy Dunphy, De Loughry Place.
Anniversaries: Olive Malone (Sat 6.15), Brendan Reid (Sun 9.30), Pat Mullins (Sun 11.00), Deirdre Quinn (Sun 12.00), Paddy Delahunty (Sun 12.30), Patrick Morris (Tues 9.30), Bessy, Margaret & Mai Buckley, Michael & Mary Conway, Maurice Kelly, Michael McGrath, Anne Martin, Jerry & Mary Coyne, Ellen Audoire, Jimmy Browne, James Doheny, Mary Browne, Peter Browne, Padraig Costello, Jim, Denis and Peg O’Leary, Pakie Dooley, Paddy Larkin, Mary Hickey, John & Annie Free, Liam Bergin, Paddy Walsh, Willie Meehan, John Tynan.
Intentions for Next Weekend: Ingrid & Gottfried Koetter (Sun 12.00).

Presbytery Sold
The presbytery at 7 Ormonde Road was sold at public auction on Thursday last. The premises was purchased by a local businessman for €900,000. The sale of the building was part of the parish plan to finance the development adjacent to St. Fiacre’s Church: some of the money will be used to provide new accommodation for the priests while the residue will be invested in the new parish centre.

Family Liturgy
Practice for Family Liturgy during Holy Week will take place in St. Fiacre’s Church on Wednesday, 19th March at 6 pm. During this practice we will prepare the music, readings and prayers for Holy Thursday and for Easter Sunday. All are welcome.

Mass for Lent
Thanks to all who attended the extra 6.15pm Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church during Lent. Please note there will not be a 6.15pm Mass on Monday as it is a bank holiday or Wednesday to enable priests and people attend the Chrism Mass at the cathedral.

Chrism Mass
The annual Chrism Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Cathedral on Wednesday, 19th March at 7.30pm. Sacred Oils, for use in the diocese during the coming year, will be consecrated during the liturgy. Bishop Freeman invites all to attend.

Heating at St. Fiacre’s Church
We continue to have difficulty in restoring the heating to St. Fiacre’s Church. We are sorry for the inconvenience which will be rectified as soon as possible.

St. Vincent de Paul Collection
The monthly collection for the local branch of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul will be taken up at all Masses this weekend. Please support this local parish charity. See www.svp.ie for further information.

Pilgrimage to Knock
There will be a pilgrimage to Knock Shrine on Sunday, 30th March for Divine Mercy Sunday. A bus will leave the Parade, Kilkenny at 8am. Booking through Murphy’s Boutique, High Street. Tel: 056 772 1495.

Lost and Found
Mobile phone found in St. Patrick’s Church last Sunday. Contact 776 4400.
Holy Week Ceremonies
Holy Thursday
This is the day on which we celebrate the Lord’s Last Supper with his disciples. We invite you to join with us for our parish celebrations:
St. Fiacre’s Church: Morning Prayer of the Church at 10.30am.
St. Fiacre’s Church: Mass of the Lord’s Supper with the younger members of our community at 6.15pm
St. Joseph’s Church: Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 6.30pm
St. Patrick’s Church: Mass of the Lord’s Supper and procession to the altar of repose at 8 pm. The church will remain open to allow for quiet private prayer until 10pm.

Good Friday
Christ died to take away our sins. Today we celebrate his Passion and Death on the Cross.
St. Fiacre’s Church: Morning Prayer of the Church at 10.30am.
St. Patrick’s Church: Stations of the Cross and Penitential Service at 12 noon.
St. Patrick’s Church: The Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion at 3pm.
St. Fiacre’s Church: The Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s Passion at 3pm.
St. Joseph’s Church: Stations of the Cross at 7.30pm.
St. Patrick’s Church: Taize prayer around the cross at 8pm.

Holy Saturday
Today the church awaits the resurrection of the Lord from the dead.
St. Fiacre’s Church: Morning Prayer of the Church at 10.30am.
St. Patrick's Church: The Solemn Easter Vigil at 9pm.

Easter Sunday
Masses follow the usual Sunday timetable.

Please come and join our community in the Solemn Holy Week and Easter celebrations.
Parish Monthly Draw
The March draw in our monthly raffle will take place at the Presbytery on Tuesday, 25th March at 8.30pm. Promoters are asked to return their cards before then. The drawing is open to everyone.

New Promoters Needed
As work continues on the parish centre and other works we must continue to raise funds. Another round of the parish draw begins in April. We appeal to present promotes and subscribers to continue supporting this excellent fundraiser. Needless to say new promoters are urgently needed. Please contact Ted Byrne or the Presbytery on 776 4400 if you feel you could sell a few tickets for the parish each month. We appeal to all to make an extra effort to help fund the new centre. Could this be your way of helping out?

Eucharistic Adoration
There will be adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at St. Fiacre’s Church from midday until 10pm on Monday, 17th March.
Due to the ceremonies commemorating the Passion & Death of Our Lord there will be no Eucharistic Adoration in St. Patrick’s Church on Good Friday, 21st March 2008.

Bank Holiday Masses
This Monday, 17th March we have Masses at St. Patrick’s and St. Fiacre’s (Requiem Mass) at 11am. No other Masses in the parish.
Eucharistic Ministers
New Ministers of Holy Communion will be commissioned at Mass in St. Patrick’s Church on Thursday evening. We welcome you and thank you for agreeing to serve the parish in this way.
We also say a sincere thanks to those who retire at this time having served the maximum permitted number of years.

Rehab Collection
Rehab will hold it annual church gate collection at all Masses next weekend. Rehab provides services to 53 people in Kilkenny and has helped thousands across the country since it was established nearly 60 years ago.

St. Rioch’s Cemetery
Tom Reade has produced an interesting and fact-filled book on St. Rioch’s Graveyard, Gaol Road. The book is available from Tom at 32 St. Fiacre’s Place and in local libraries and bookshops. At €8 it is an excellent investment for those interested in local history.

Parish Calendar & Newsletter
sponsored by:
Patrick N. Meany & Sons
Member of The Irish Association
of Funeral Directors
Greenridge, Johnswell Road, Kilkenny
056 775 1100 / 086 868 8868

Easter Sunday 23rd March 2008

Happy Easter
The priests join in wishing all in St. Patrick’s Parish a very happy and holy Easter. May the joy of Easter be with you and yours in the year ahead.

Easter Ceremonies
Thanks to all who attended the Easter Ceremonies in our parish. We were delighted with the huge attendance at the various liturgies and we thanks everyone for their participation. It is good when neighbours and friends can come together to worship God - this is what parish community is all about!
A special word of thanks to the sacristans and others who worked behind the scenes to ensure the liturgies were worthy and flowed smoothly. Even though your work is mostly unseen we appreciate every minute you spend in preparation.

Eucharistic Ministers
It’s the time of year when we say thanks to those Eucharistic Ministers who have served in our parish for nine consecutive years and who, according to diocesan rule, must now retire. Thanks for your service to our community during your ministry.
We welcome five new ministers who have completed their training and who were commissioned on Holy Thursday evening. May the Lord bless you as you administer the Body and Blood of Christ in our parish.
While the priests continue to visit the housebound on First Fridays such parishioners who would like to receive Holy Communion more often should contact the Presbytery and we will arrange a minister to attend your home.

Mass During the Week
The only public daily Mass in our parish during the coming week will be at St. Patrick’s Church at 11am each day. Please note: Mass will not be celebrated at St. Fiacre’s Church during Easter Week.

Boldly Going
Believing that someone has risen from the dead is quite an achievement. It means that you have freed your mind from the limitations of reason. Human reason is limited, is it not? So, is it not desirable to boldly go where reason alone can’t take you? If we never take that step into what is seen as in a glass darkly we will not develop fully. We will be so fearful of appearing gullible, or stupid, so fearful of derision from those considered more ‘enlightened’ and intelligent, so afraid of drifting into insanity, that we will imprison our mind in shallowness and limit our ability to mature spiritually.
As people of faith we have staked our life on what we believe. If Jesus has not risen then what’s the point in seeking ‘the things that are above’? (Colossians 3: 1-4).
What’s the point in being a Christian if the highpoint of Jesus’ life was a lie, a non-event, a con-artist’s ruse? Then our faith would be a sham, our values mere delusion. Look into the eyes of your loved ones: wife, husband, son, daughter, and tell them they have no lasting value. Then see if you can ever look them in the eye again?
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD

Questions People Ask
Q. In what way was the resurrection of Jesus different from the raising of Lazarus or people brought back to life by the apostles?
A. There is a difference between resurrection and resuscitation. Resurrection means going forward into a totally new level of life. That’s what Lazarus experienced. Christianity is based on the belief that we are called to share in the new life opened up by the resurrection of Jesus. This belief far exceeds any theory of reincarnation. St Paul wrote, ‘If Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith has been in vain.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Trocaire
Family Fast Boxes may be returned directly to Trócaire or handed in at the churches in our parish. The money handed in at our churches will be collated and sent to Trócaire via the Diocesan Office.

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Michael Gill, Naas.
Months Mind: Sr. Eucharisti Madden (Wed 11.00)
Anniversaries: Ingrid & Gottfried Koetter (Sun 12.00), Des Cullen (Tues 11.00), Ted Cornally, Mary Lawlor, Eamon O’Neill, Patrick Scanlon, Rose Kenny, Mary Nugent, Kathleen Byrne, Johanna, Philip & John Larkin, Eileen Quigley, Elizabeth & Catherine Nolan, Thomas O’Neill, Martin & Elizabeth Brennan, Michael Massey, Billy Connick, Bridget Slattery, Elizabeth Kavanagh, Lou McCarthy, John Tynan.
Intentions Next Weekend
Oliver Kelly (Sat 6.15), Chris Kenny (Sat 7.00), Michael McInerney (Sun 11.00), Kitty Kelly (Sun 12.00), Billy Wallace (Sun 12.30).

New Parishioners
We welcome new members to St. Patrick’s Parish and we’d love to hear from you. Please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400 to register in our parish.

IHCPT Lourdes Pilgrimage
Fr. Dan heads off to Lourdes this Easter Sunday with a group from the Irish Children’s Pilgrimage Trust (IHCPT). The group leaves Kilkenny at 3.30am on Sunday and returns next Saturday afternoon. Our best wishes and prayers go with them. The IHCPT group takes young people with special needs to Lourdes each Easter. See www.ihcpt.com for more information.

Pilgrimage to Knock
There will be a pilgrimage to Knock Shrine on Sunday, 30th March for Divine Mercy Sunday. A bus will leave the Parade, Kilkenny at 8am. Booking: 056 772 1495.

Parish Envelopes
The parish envelopes for the coming year (April 2008 to March 2009), have just arrived and distribution will begin shortly.
The envelopes and direct debits are the main source of income for the parish and we are extremely grateful to all who contribute in this way. With the new Parish Centre about to come on stream we need all the financial help we can get.
Parishioners will already know that we can reclaim from the Revenue Commissioners the tax already paid on donations to the parish over €250 per annum (€5 per week). This is at no extra cost to you and is worth a lot of money to the parish.
If you haven’t used the parish envelopes in the past couple of years, there is a chance you may not receive a box this time round. If you don’t receive a box by the end of April, then get in touch and we’ll sort things out.
We need volunteers to help drop the boxes off at homes throughout the parish. Please contact Fr. Liam if you can help in your area.

Run For Your Parish
Ladies, don’t forget the Flora Ladies’ Mini-Marathon on Bank Holiday Monday, 2nd June 2008. Please contact Fr. Roderick if you are interested in participating on behalf of the parish. Sponsorship cards available. While we need ladies to run in the mini-marathon parishioners may take sponsorship cards and we will get someone else to run in their name. Proceeds will go towards the new seniors’ accommodation at St. Fiacre’s Church.

You: A Loreto Sister?
To find out more about our way of life today, see www.loreto.ie Our next Loreto Life Weekend will be held in Cork on 5th - 6th April, 2008. For more information on this, you can contact Thérèse at loretonewmemberoffice@eircom.net

Monthly Parish Draw
The March draw takes place at the Presbytery on Tuesday, 25th March at 8.30pm. All welcome to come along.
As progress continues on the new parish centre and we must continue to fundraise. Another round of the parish draw begins in April. We appeal to present promoters and subscribers to continue supporting this essential fundraiser. Needless to say, new promoters are urgently needed. Please contact the Parish Office on 776 4400 if you feel you could sell a few tickets each month. We appeal to all to make an effort to help. Could this be your way of helping out?

St. Rioch’s Cemetery
Tom Reade has produced an interesting and fact-filled book on St. Rioch’s Graveyard, Gaol Road. The book is available from Tom at 32 St. Fiacre’s Place and in local libraries and bookshops. At €8 it is an excellent investment for those interested in local history.

Callan Variety Show
Callan Variety Club holds its annual show in St Brigid’s College, Callan on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of this week. This is the 20th anniversary of the variety club and a show not to be missed. Tickets: Kerwick’s, Callan, €10.

Church Gate Collection
Please support Rehab’s collection this weekend. www.rehab.ie for information.

Village Hurling Club
Well done to the U-6/7/8 Village hurlers and mentors Tony Scanlon and Richie Manogue who took part in this year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade. It was a great sight to see the future Village Stars marching down High Street in the famous Red and Green.
The recent U-14 Medal Presentation night was a great success as parents and officials gathered for the presentation of U-14 Football League and Championship and Hurling League medals to the successful squads. Guests included Joe Pyke (Bord Na Óg) and Kilkenny Senior Hurler, Tommy Walsh.
Coaching for the Stars of the Future has now moved into its 4th week for the U-6/7/8 grades. Coaching is on Sunday mornings at 11.30am sharp in Cootes Lane and new players are invited to sign up.
U-9/10 grades will kick into action on Tuesday, 25th March in Nuncio Road at 6.45pm. U-11/12 grades will commence coaching on Thursday, 27th in Nuncio Road at 6.45pm.

Parish Website
Our parish website is available at www.patricksparish.com and contains much information and photos from the parish. The website is updated with the newsletter every week. We invite you to take a look.
We also invite you to pass on the address to former Villagers now living elsewhere. Many will find it a useful tool for staying in touch with what is happening at home.

Fifth Sunday of Lent 2nd March 2008

Life Giving
Many years ago I saw a Hollywood ‘religious’ film about Jesus of Nazareth. Jeffrey Hunter – he of the brilliant blue eyes, for those old enough to remember him – portrayed Jesus. In one scene, the raising of Lazarus to life (today’s Gospel reading), Hunter calls on him to come forth from his tomb. He does, wrapped in layers of loose cloth, except for his face, which would have been better wrapped too. He looked hideous. I thought that if that was what being raised to life meant, he’d have been better left as he was. In today’s first reading Yahweh says he will bring the house of Israel up from its grave and put his spirit within them so that they live. No ghoulish appearance there, no mummified creatures creaking around zombie-like as in a horror film. God gives his Spirit, beautiful, vibrant, and creative. Whoever opens up to that Spirit, in turn becomes beautiful, vibrant and creative. The body is often debased in today’s entertainment industry. Constant exposure to that debasement can degrade one’s respect for the beauty and sanctity of the human body – the dwelling place of God’s Holy Spirit. Nothing debased or second-grade ever comes from the hand of God.
Fr. Tom Cahill

New Life: New Creation
The resurrection of Christ is the beginning of a new creation. “In Him a new age has dawned, the long reign of sin is ended, a broken world has been renewed and human beings are once again made whole”. Our world is enduring another “brokenness” –despoiled, pillaged, polluted. It is surely time for another “New Creation”. Let us pray that the Spirit will inspire us to “renew the face of the earth” so that all who come after us “may have life and have it to the full.” Please support Trocaire this Lent.

St. Patrick’s Day 2008
This year’s liturgical celebration of St Patrick's Day will be held on next Saturday, 15th March as the traditional date falls in Holy Week which this year begins on Monday, 17th March. For the first time since 1913, and the last time until 2160, St Patrick's Day will fall in Holy Week this year. As the days of Holy Week and Easter Week rank above all others St Patrick's Day (and St Joseph's Day) must be transferred. The Vatican had intended transferring the celebrations to April, after Easter week, but at the request of the Irish bishops it agreed to the 15th March date as this would be closer to the civic celebrations of St Patrick's Day.
As a transferred feast the celebration of St Patrick's Day on next Saturday will not be a holy day of obligation. Next weekend Masses in our parish will be as follows:
St. Fiacre’s Church
Friday: 10.30am and 6.15pm
Saturday: 10.30am, 12 noon and 6.15pm
Sunday: 10.30am, 12 noon
Monday: No Mass
St. Patrick’s Church
Friday, 9.30am and 7.00pm
Saturday: 9.30, 11.00am (as gaeilge), 12.30pm & 7.00pm
Sunday: 9.30, 11.00am, 12.30pm
Monday: 11.00am
St. Joseph’s Church
Saturday: 10.00am
Sunday: 10.00am
As a matter of interest, Easter Sunday falls on 23rd March this year, the second earliest date it could be. The earliest date is March 22nd, as Easter Sunday - since the Council of Nicea in AD325 - always falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the Spring equinox. In 1940 an unusual coincidence took place when Palm Sunday occurred on the same day as St. Patrick’s Day. On that day the Irish were able to wear both the palm and the shamrock on the same day. If you were around at the time cherish the memory as this will not happen again until 2391!

Peace in Christ Retreat House
The annual Parish Evening for St. Patrick’s Parish will be held at the diocesan retreat house on Monday, 10th March beginning at 8.00pm. This is a highly recommended experience and we invite as many as possible to attend.
This evening for our parish community enables us to prepare together as we move towards Easter. Details on the notice boards.

Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place in St. Fiacre’s Church on Friday, 14th March immediately after 10.30am Mass. All welcome.

Divine Mercy
In honour of Divine Mercy, there will be an hour of prayer in St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday from 3-4pm. All are welcome.

Medjugorje
A pilgrimage to Medjugorje takes place on Saturday, 31st of May to Saturday, 7th June. Cost: €619 inclusive. Bookings Ann 776 5840 or 086 882 5622.

Heating at St. Fiacre’s Church
We again apologise for the lack of heating in St. Fiacre’s Church this weekend. The cause is connected to the building works and is beyond our control at the moment. It will be rectified as soon as possible.

Chernobyl Children’s Project
The local outreach group of the Chernobyl Children's Project are again bringing children from orphanages in Belarus to stay with host families for a month starting in mid-June. Four adults will accompany these children and we are looking for a vacant house in the city that will be free from approx 10th June to 15th July. We can assure you that the property will be well looked after. Contact Mags on 776 1551 / 086 605 0075 or Penny 086 171 3464.
Concert for Children’s Hospital
A benefit concert in aid of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children will take place in The Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle on Friday, 14th of March at 8pm featuring Quintessenz a brass quintet from the Black Forest, Alison Comerford Violin, In Caelo Choir and St. Patrick's Brass and Reed Band. A varied and enjoyable music programme to suit all tastes delivered in a light hearted manner. Tickets from Book Centre, High Street or at the door. Information from Liam on 087 212 0201.

Kilkenny Flower Club
Kilkenny Flower Club is pleased to announce that a talk on “Gardening at Home and Abroad” will be given by renowned gardener Frances Macdonald in Butler House at 8 p.m. next Thursday,13th March. Come early.

Happy Heart Weekend
A meeting will be held on Monday, 10th March in the Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel at 8.00 p.m. for all existing and new volunteers. Please come along and bring a friend or two. Volunteers are needed to help the Irish Heart Foundation in their work in helping to prevent heart disease and stroke. Your assistance can make a difference. Light refreshments available afterwards.

St Patrick’s Day Parade
We are delighted to inform you that the Kilkenny St. Patrick’s Day parade is going ahead on Monday, 17th March. The theme is built around people’s sense of Kilkenny, its history, heritage, place and sport. This year we are staging the traditional type of a marching parade including floats, dancers, bands and people having fun. The parade is due to assemble at the main castle gates at approximately 3pm and move off at 3.30pm. The route is as follows: Castle Road; High Street; Parliament Street. Please contact Brid or Martina for entry forms at 087 641 0214 or email stpatsdayparade@autooffice.ie.
Annual St. Joseph’s Novena
The annual Mill Hill Novena will take place from 6th - 14th March at St. Joseph’s, Mill Hill Missionaries, Waterford Road at 8.00pm each evening. Mass with homily and novena prayers. Please note the feast of St. Joseph will be celebrated on 14th March this year. All welcome.

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Tommy O’Brien, Michael Street; Requiem Mass at St. John’s at noon on Sunday followed by burial at Foulkstown Cemetery. Jack Purcell, O’Loughlin Road. Eileen Hanton, Fr. Murphy Square. Melody Dwyer, Millennium Court.
Months Mind: John O’Rourke (Fri 6.15)
Anniversaries: Michael Tomney (Sat 6.15), Lulu Lynch (Sat 7.00), Bobbie Brannigan (Sun 9.30), Evelyn Herlihy (Sun 10.00), Bridie Carroll (Sun 10.30), Mai Brannigan (Sun 11.00), John Dooley (Sun 12.00), Elizabeth Ryan (Sun 12.30), John Barry (Tues 10.30), Bridget Eardly (Sat 10.00), John Cleere, Vincent Morrissey, Patrick Leahy, Kathleen Murphy, Jim Phelan, Rose Cantwell, Breda Butler, Mary Kennedy, Maureen Burke, James Nugent, Patrick Brennan, Michael O’Neill, Anastasia Wixted, Martin O’Shea, Paddy Dore.
Intentions for next weekend: Olive Malone (Sat 6.15), Brendan Reid (Sun 9.30), Clara & Patrick (Sun 10.30), Pat Mullins (Sun 11.00), Deirdre Quinn (Sun 12.00), Paddy Delahunty (Sun 12.30).

St. John of God Day
Congratulations and best wishes to the local sisters on their feast day this weekend.

Easter Craft Fair
All are invited to an Easter Craft Fair at Irish Wheelchair Association, College Road, on Wednesday, 12th March at 11am. Selection of Easter goods and cakes for sale. Teas available.

U-14 Medal Presentation
James Stephen’s GAA Club is holding a Medal Presentation night for the very successful U-14 Squads of 2007. Medals will be presented to the squads of the Football League, Championship, Hurling League and Lisdowney Sevens by a star guest on the night. The event will be on Thursday, 13th March at 8pm. All players, parents and club members are asked to attend and acknowledge the effort of this successful squad.

Widows’ Association
The monthly meeting of the Widows’ Association will take place on Tuesday, 11th March at 2.30pm in the Club House Hotel. All welcome.

Dochas Kilkenny
The Ossory Diocesan outreach support agency to migrants, refugees and asylum seekers is seeking volunteers for a Mentoring/Befriending Programme for immigrant families. Interested persons should contact Dochas Office, Social Services, Waterford Road on Monday or Tuesday or phone Theresa on 778 9916.

Questions people ask
Q. Lazarus was dead for three days before Jesus brought him back to life. Where was his spirit during that time? Did he face his final judgement or was it postponed for a while?
A. Normally a person is pronounced dead when the vital organs cease to function and are beyond repair. However, the departure of the spirit or soul on its journey into God’s revealing light may take longer, especially in the case of sudden death. On that basis the Church advised prayers of absolution or anointing over somebody who has been pronounced dead. The reason underlying the traditional wake is to accompany the departing spirit on its journey from his life. Perhaps we should say of Lazarus that he was dead but not yet departed.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Parish Calendar & Newsletter
sponsored by:
Patrick N. Meany & Sons
Funeral Directors
Greenridge, Johnswell Road, Kilkenny
056 775 1100 / 086 868 8868

Divine Mercy
Novena to Divine Mercy begins on Good Friday until Divine Mercy Sunday (Sunday after Easter). Leaflets available at door.
Afternoon of Prayer on Divine Mercy Sunday 30th March 2pm-5pm in the Friary. All are welcome

The sixth annual pilgrimage in honour of St Joseph will take place at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Knock. Fr John Harris OP will deliver the Reflection on St Joseph and Fatherhood. Stations, Mass, Blessing of Pilgrims & Benediction.

Assembly in the Basilica is at 1.45pm sharp on Friday 14th March 2008.