Twenty First Sunday in Ordinary Time, 24th August 2008

Our Inscrutable God
How do you make God Laugh? Just tell him your plans! The hymn of praise that is today’s Second Reading soaring on a loftier plane than that opening quip, nonetheless points to the same reality: the inscrutability of God.
Down from the heady heights of Paul’s vision of God, what does it mean for us in daily life that God is inscrutable? Well, let’s say first what it doesn’t mean. It doesn’t mean that we can’t know anything about God, so there’s no point in trying to. It means that we can’t know everything about him. Coming to terms with God in our life is our number one priority, or should be. Sadly, for many it is not.
And when we try to come to terms with God we find, as Thomas Merton points out in Love and Living: ‘There is a disconcerting aura of secularity about much of God’s activity as recorded in the Bible, and uneasiness with this has generally led certain types of philosophic religiosity to improve on the concept of God, seeking to make it more spiritual, more impressive to humans minds, in a word, more “divine”.’ Not only is that secularity found in the Bible, it’s found in real life too. Compare the number of times we’re told in the Bible to pray to the number of times we’re told to love our neighbour. And showing that love is very down-to-earth stuff indeed – the stuff of the Good Samaritan. The sleeves up, hands on approach. God wants action not just intention.
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD

Redecorating St. Fiacre’s Church
As the construction work approaches an end at St. Fiacre’s Church we are about to redecorate the building itself. The walls outside and inside will be washed and painted shortly. Preparatory work will begin soon - we ask your patience as we try some colour samples.
We also intend to re-cover the floors in the church and this will be attended to as soon as the other ‘dirtier’ work is completed. Thanks for your patience.

St. Fiacre’s Well Novena
The annual novena at St. Fiacre's Well begins at 8.00pm on this Saturday and continues each evening at the same time. The novena is part of an ancient tradition and consists of the rosary and some particular prayers of intercession to St. Fiacre. This year’s novena ends on Sunday, 31st August with open-air Mass at 3.30pm at the Holy Well. Bishop Séamus Freeman, who since his consecration has made a point of visiting the sites associated with the principal patrons of the diocese, will be the main concelebrant and homilist at the Mass. We hope and pray for good weather and a large congregation to mark the first visit of our bishop to St. Fiacre’s Well.
The ancient well of St. Fiacre is situated at Kilfera, a number of kilometres out the Bennettsbridge Road. Access is via the avenue to Sheastown House. The people of Kilkenny City and its environs have been coming here since the seventh century to implore the saint’s intercession. All are welcome but this year in particular we encourage people who have recently arrived in our parish to come along and join in the celebration.

Transport to the Well
If there is enough interest the St. Fiacre’s Well Committee is willing to organise a bus from the City to this year’s Mass. Please contact Tommy on 087 688 3647 if you would be interested in availing of a bus. If enough people express an interest a bus will be organised.

Our Lady’s Island, Wexford
There will be Mass at 3.00pm and 8.00pm on each day of the pilgrimage season, 15th August to 8th September. See posters.

Pray for the deceased
Recently Deceased: Jim Bolger, England & Grovine. Burial of ashes following Requiem Mass at Foulkstown at 12 noon on Monday. Fintan Wallace, Derdimus. Bridget O’Gorman, Cuffesgrange. Ann Dwan, Piltown. Patty Murray-Lavender, Pearse Street & England.
Anniversaries: Tom & Michael Casserly (Sat 6.15), Eddie Kelly (Sat 7.00), Paddy Mullen (Sun 10.00), James Rhatigan (Sun 10.30), Michael White (Sun 11.00), Della Harney & Mary Campion (Sun 12.00), Annie McKenna (Sun 12.30), James Delaney (Mon 9.30), Moscow Larkin (Tue 9.30), Patrick Culleton, Pat Phelan, Dick Walsh, Cissie de Loughry, Kitty Mullins, Pierce & Catherine Marnell, John & Catherine Waldron, John & Mary Brennan, Josie Hackett, John, Ellen & Pat Butler, Joe O’Shea, Mary & Patrick Blanchfield, Anastatia Tallent, Josephine McKenna, Martin Ward, Frank Moran.
Intentions for next weekend: Mary & Paul Cody & Bill Marnell (Sat 6.15), Sr. Vianney Hickey (Month’s Mind Sat 7.00), Patrick McDonald (Sun 9.30), Jim Bambrick (Sun 10.30), Jacqueline Rainey (Sun 11.00), Ann-Marie Manogue (Sun 12.00), Joe Cody (Month’s Mind Sun 12.30).

Parish Draw
The August Draw will be held at the Sacristy of St. Fiacre’s Church on this Tuesday, 26th August at 8.30pm. All welcome. Monies and tickets may be returned directly to Ted Byrne or to St. Fiacre’s Sacristy from 6.30pm on Tuesday evening. There will be a special draw for two All Ireland Hurling Final tickets on the night.

Theology at a Distance
The Priory Institute, Tallaght invites people to join in the study of theology from the comfort of their own homes. For information: dial 01 404 8124, email enquiries@prioryinstitute.com or write The Priory Institute, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24.

Mayor of the Village
Some interested parishioners are organising a Mayor of the Village ‘election’ in aid of St. Patrick’s Houses for the Elderly. Would you or do you know of someone who would like to be Mayor/Mayoress of the Village? We are looking for people to nominate or place their own names forward for this competition. Names can be given at the Parish Office and for further information contact the Parish Office at 056 776 4400.

Fund Raising Bag Pack
The management of Supervalu Supermarket, Loughboy has kindly agreed to allow us have a fundraising bag-pack for our new parish centre on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 4th, 5th and 6th September. To reap maximum benefit from this opportunity we need a lot of adult volunteers to help during shopping hours on these days. A similar initiative in February raised in excess of €5,000 for the funds. We intend approaching those who gave so generously of their time on that occasion but, without doubt, some of these people will not be available in September. This means we will need more volunteers. Please contact the Presbytery on 776 4400 if you can offer any time at all to avail of this excellent opportunity to help our parish raise essential funds for our development. The organising committee continues to develop a rota for the days in question. In this case it is genuinely a case of Many hands make light work — all help will be gratefully received.

Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland
The Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland in Kilkenny is setting up a home care service for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. This is where a trained dementia care worker will go into the family home for a designated number of hours a week offering stimulation and activities to the client and allowing the main carer to take a break. For further information contact Marie O’Shea, Home Care Coordinator on 086 609 0421.

National Grandparents Pilgrimage
The National Grandparents’ Pilgrimage takes place in Knock this year on Sunday, 14th September. The Chief Celebrant at this year’s Pilgrimage Mass will be Bishop John Fleming, Bishop of Killala. Fr. Liam Lawton will be guest singer at the event and David Quinn of the Iona Institute will be deliver the keynote address. Additional information is available on nationalgrandparentspilgrimage.com.

Questions People Ask
Q. Was Jesus ever called Christ before St. Peter used that title? For instance, at home with Mary and Joseph, was he known as Christ?
A. Jesus was his personal name, a name meaning Saviour, announced by an angel and given to him at birth. Christ was a title which identified him as the long-awaited messiah. This title means the anointed one sent by God. Jesus told Simon Peter that it was only a special grace which enable him to recognise Jesus as the Christ. I find it impossible to understand how any Christian could be insensitive to the sacred character of these sacred names.

Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Columnist Bereaved
We offer our sympathy on the death of his mother to Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap who writes our weekly ‘Questions People Ask’ column. Mrs. Kathleen O’Flynn was 103 years of age. May she rest in peace.

Kilkenny Gospel Choir
The Kilkenny Gospel Choir will provide the sacred music at the 12 noon Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on next Sunday. All are welcome. The choir will have copies of their latest CD Someone’s Praying available for sale after the Mass.

Medjugorje Visionary to Visit City
The National Medjugorje Council of Ireland with the Kilkenny Youth Prayer Group are pleased to announce the visit of Jakov Colo, Medjugorje visionary, to St. Mary’s Cathedral, on Tuesday the 16th of September at 7.30pm. The evening of Prayer will include Rosary, Mass, Adoration and Prayers for Healing. Confession will be available throughout the evening. All are welcome.

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje
From Friday, 19th to Friday 26th September. Spiritual Director: Fr. C. Fox M.H.M. Coach to Dublin Airport. Cost €669 (inclusive). Bookings Ann 056 776 5774 or 086 882 5622.

Eucharistic Adoration
“Could you not watch with me one hour?”
Adorers needed each Friday, in St. Patrick’s Church for Eucharistic Adoration, especially for the hours from 11.00am to 12 noon, and from 12 noon to 1.00pm. If interested please ring 777 0472 or contact any of the priests at 776 4400.

Vincentian Annual Pilgrimage
The annual Vincentian Pilgrimage to Our Lady’s Shrine at Knock will take place on Saturday, 13th September 2008. Further details when they come to hand.

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 17th August 2008

Method in the Madness
It’s not often that Jesus language seems crude, but in today’s Gospel (Matt 15:21-28) it does. Using the common Jewish designation for Gentiles, viz, dogs, he says It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs (Matt 15:25). Perhaps knowing it’s common coinage removes some unease at its use. Perhaps. Perhaps being so removed from the language and culture of Jesus time the word sounds harsher now than it did then. Perhaps. Perhaps the diminutive form of dog that’s used, softening it to puppy, removes the harshness. Perhaps.
But what about Jesus tone of voice, facial expression and body language as he utters those words? Is he surly, spiteful, or cruel? Hardly. We can all too easily picture him as almost terminally serious, without a laugh in his body. Well, if Jesus has no joy in his heart, no lightness in his spirit, no humour on his lips, then whatever else he brings it’s not good news, and it isn’t the fullness of life.
I suspect a mischievous, yet friendly, banter here between Jesus and the woman; also, that Jesus orchestrates the entire encounter to teach his disciples a lesson. She’s a Canaanite, despised by Jews. Yet, she doesn’t take offence in the least at what Jesus says. She even turns the tables on him and (dare one suggest it?) makes him chuckle at her wit and bowls him over by her good humour.
Clearly, that’s a winning combination, for Jesus tells the chosen ones that this despised one has great faith, and grants her what she wants. Nothing crude there!
Fr Tom Cahill SVD (tomcee@eircom.net)

Leaving Cert Results
Best wishes to all who received their Leaving Certificate results during the week. Well done and congratulations! As a community we pray God’s guidance for you as you make decisions about future courses and careers.

Questions People Ask
Q. Was Jesus ever called Christ before St. Peter used the title? For instance, at home with Mary and Joseph was he known as Christ?
A. Jesus was his personal name, a name meaning Saviour, announced by an angel and given to him at birth. Christ was a title which identified him as the long-awaited Messiah. This title means the anointed one sent by God. Jesus told Simon Peter that it was only a special grace which enabled him to recognise Jesus as the Christ. I find it impossible to understand how anyone could be insensitive to the sacred character of these sacred names.
Fr Silvester O’Flynn (silvesteroflynn@gmail.com)

St. Fiacre’s Well Novena
The annual St. Fiacre’s Well novena begins at 8.00pm on Saturday, 23rd August and continues each evening at the same time. Bishop Freeman has agreed to be principal celebrant at this year’s concluding open-air Mass on Sunday, 31st August.
If there is enough interest the Well Committee is willing to organise a bus from the City to this year’s Mass. Please contact Tommy on 087 688 3647 if you would be interested in availing of a bus. If enough people express an interest a bus will be organised.

Mayor of the Village
In aid of St. Patrick’s Houses for the Elderly. Would you or do you know of someone who would like to be Mayor/Mayoress of the Village? We are looking for people to nominate or place their own names forward for this competition. Names can be given at the Parish Office and for further information contact the Parish Office at 056 776 4400.

Organ Recital
Ronan Murray - organist - accompanied by his sister Niamh Murray - soprano - will perform at St. John’s Catholic Church at 3pm this Sunday, 17th August. Donations in aid of Church Centenary Fund.

Pray For Those Who Have Died
Recently Deceased: Mary Heffernan, Foulkstown. Catherine Burke, Thomastown. Ger Devane, Freshford Road. Christy Carpenter, 34 Fatima Place. Requiem Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral at 11am on Monday followed by cremation at Mount Jerome Crematorium.
Anniversaries: Evelyn Hughes (Sat 6.15), Margaret Shanahan & Joe Maher (Sat 7.00), Christine Murphy (Sun 9.30), Denis Treacy (Sun 10.00), James & Mary Brennan (Sun 11.00), Jack Bolger (Sun 12.00), Joseph McHugh (Sun 12.30), Patrick Morris (Mon 9.30), The Connick Family (Tue 9.30), John Joe Henebry, Peggy Ryan, Anastatia Quinn, Richard Kenny, Dick Walsh., Malachy O’Connor, Pat Phelan, Jim Drohan.
Next Weekend: Tom & Michael Casserly (Sat 6.15), Eddie Kelly (Sat 7.00), Paddy Mullen (Sun 10.00), Della Harney (Sun 12.00).

Redecorating St. Fiacre’s Church
As the construction work approaches an end at St. Fiacre’s Church we are about to redecorate the building itself. The walls outside and inside will be washed and painted shortly. Preparatory work will begin soon - we ask your patience as we try some colour samples.
We also intend to re-cover the floors in the church and this will be attended to as soon as the other ‘dirtier’ work is completed.
Thanks for your patience: we’re nearly there!

Theology at a Distance
The Priory Institute offers an extended series of fifteen-week modules in the study of theology which is open to everyone. Since its inception, over 1,000 people, ranging from young adults to senior citizens, have taken part in the Institute’s programmes.
The Priory Institute invites people from every walk of life to join in the study of theology from the comfort of their own homes. No previous knowledge of theology is required. For information: dial 01 404 8124, email enquiries@prioryinstitute.com or write The Priory Institute, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24.

National Grandparents Pilgrimage
The National Grandparents’ Pilgrimage takes place in Knock this year on Sunday, 14th September. The Chief Celebrant at this year’s Pilgrimage Mass will be Bishop John Fleming, Bishop of Killala. Liam Lawton will be guest singer at the event and David Quinn from the Iona Institute will be deliver the keynote address.
The importance of grandparents in the lives of young people is something that needs to be highlighted and applauded. Grandparents play a unique role in the lives of their grandchildren. They have had an invaluable role in passing on tradition, culture and, most of all, the Christian faith to generations of people. Last year’s Grandparents’ Pilgrimage saw children from all over the country writing prayers for their grandparents. A selection of these prayers as well as additional information on the pilgrimage is available on the www.nationalgrandparentspilgrimage.com

Year of Vocation Pilgrim Walk
On Sunday 24th August there will be a Year of Vocation pilgrim walk from Shannonbridge to Clonmacnois, Co Offaly. People are invited to join with us on this walk and to pray for vocations. The event is being organised in conjunction with the Ursuline Sisters in Shannonbridge. The Pilgrim Walk will start at 2.00pm sharp on Sunday, 24th August at the church car park in Shannonbridge. The route from there to Clonmacnois is approximately four miles. There will be several stops along the route for prayers and reflection at the Coffin Trees, the Mass Rock, St. Ciaran’s Well and then into the monastic site for prayer and reflection at the Cross of Scriptures and Temple Ciarán. Parishes are encouraged to invite pilgrims to this event.
People are also invited to send in their prayer petitions which will be prayed for during the pilgrim walk. Petitions can be emailed to: bdrumm@catholiccommunications.ie or posted to: The Year of Vocation Office, Columba Centre, Maynooth, Co Kildare.

Our Lady’s Island, Wexford
Each day of the pilgrimage season, 15th August to 8th September: Mass at 3.00pm and 8.00pm. When there are no official services pilgrims are invited to make their own way around the island reflecting on the mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary. See posters in church for further details.
A bus to Our Lady’s Island will leave the Parade, Kilkenny at 5pm on Friday, 22nd August. Fare €12. Bookings 776 4783 or 776 1308. All welcome.

St. Vincent de Paul Society
The monthly collection for the local St. Vincent de Paul conference will be taken up in church this weekend. As usual your support and generosity is appreciated.
During the summer months the local conference meets at the Presbytery, 7 Ormonde Road every second Monday evening. The Society can be contacted through the Presbytery on Ormonde Road or by telephone on 776 4400.

Vincentian Annual Pilgrimage
Join the Vincentian Fathers, Daughters of Charity, Society of St. Vincent De Paul and the Sisters of the Holy Faith as they pilgrimage to Knock to honour Our Blessed Lady and give thanks for the many blessings we receive. Pilgrimage will take place on Saturday, 13th September 2008. Further details when they come to hand.

Castlecomer District Hospital
There will be a night of music and dance in aid of the Castlecomer District Hospital on Friday, 22nd of August in Castlecomer Community Hall at 8pm. Performances will include African Drumming, IrishDancing, Hip Hop and contemporary dance. For further information, contact Alan Gleeson on 087 645 2015.

The Seven Wonders of the World
A group of 12 year olds was asked to list what they thought were the seven wonders of the world. The greatest number of votes went to: The Great Pyramids, The Taj Mahal, The Grand Canyon, The Cliffs of Moher, Newgrange, St. Peter’s Basilica and The Great Wall of China. Quiet Josephine came up with a different seven: 1) To see; 2) To hear; 3) To touch; 4) To feel; 5) To laugh; 6) To love...
The whole classroom went silent as they waited for the seventh and greatest wonder of the world. Finally, Josephine said that number 7 was God’s amazing love for us that he sent his only Son Jesus to set us free and to give us eternal life!

Our Parish Website
Visit us at: www.patricksparish.com Tell your friends about our parish website. Those living away from the parish may be interested in using the site to keep abreast of what is happening in the parish.

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time 10th August 2008

Shattered
In his Hymn of the Universe (p. 24) Teilhard de Chardin prays: “Shatter, my God, through the daring of your revelation the childishly timid outlook that can conceive of nothing greater or more vital in the world than the pitiable perfection of our human organism.” Today’s First Reading and the Gospel put me in mind of that prayer. They shatter the dubious certainties of small minds. They shatter the shaky security of a mind trapped inside predictable parameters, bound by the banal, fearful of the unknown, unable to probe the eternal. Those two readings come with thoughts and imagery nearly too powerful to comprehend and too incredible to accept. You have Elijah meeting God at Horeb. And how does God appear? In a mighty rock-splitting wind? No. In a terrifying earthquake? No. In a ferocious fire? No. But in the most unlikely sound of sheer silence. When the clutter goes, God comes. Then in the Gospel reading you have Jesus walking on water. Another epiphany of God’s presence in the creation of calm. The imagery of Psalm 107:29 is used here: he made the storm be still, and the waves of the seas were hushed. When the noise and turmoil stops God’s presence begins to be felt. This is the something greater and more vital than Teilhard prayed for: the realization that God is never far away, but is active within his creation, and for a purpose. Only an outlook shattered by revelation can hope to grasp its implications.
Fr. Tom Cahill

Vincentian Annual Pilgrimage
Join the Vincentian Fathers, Daughters of Charity, Society of St. Vincent De Paul and the Sisters of the Holy Faith as they pilgrimage to Knock to honour Our Blessed Lady and give thanks for the many blessings we receive. Pilgrimage will take place on Saturday, 13th September 2008. Further details when they come to hand.

Questions People Ask
Q. I like to go to Knock every year but my son insists that these apparitions are hallucinations or imaginary voices. How can I answer him?
A. The best test of any alleged apparition is what Jesus said: By their fruits you shall know them. Here are three tests: Is the teaching in accord with scripture and sound faith? Does it strengthen and improve the moral life of people? Is there evidence here of God’s healing power? Knock passes on all three criteria. The apparition there is a deep, silent contemplation of the sacrifice of Jesus, Lamb of God, in the company of Mary and the saints.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Castlecomer District Hospital
There will be a night of music and dance in aid of the Castlecomer District Hospital on Friday, 22nd of August in Castlecomer Community Hall at 8pm. Performances will include African Drumming, IrishDancing, Hip Hop and contemporary dance. For further information, contact Alan Gleeson on 087 645 2015

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Ellen Spencer, Cullohill, Co. Laois. Con O’Shea, Vicar Street, Joe Woodlock, St. Fiacre’s Place.
Months Mind: Mary Norris (Sun 10.00), Theresa Delahunty (Sun 12.30).
Anniversaries: Mary Coogan (Sat 6.15), Sr. Catherine Fennessy (Sun 9.30), Ellen McEvoy (Sun 10.30), Tony Henderson (Sun 11.00), Gabriel Warde (Sun 12.00), Patrick Brophy, Peter Keenan, Diane Keenan, Jim Keenan, Nance O’Neill, Walter Kavanagh, Breda O’Hara, William Deegan, Joe Delaney.
Intentions of next weekend: Evelyn Hughes (Sat 6.15), Margaret Shanahan & Joe Maher (Sat 7.00), Denis Treacy (Sun 10.00), James & Mary Brennan (Sun 11.00), Jack Bolger (Sun 12.00), Joseph McHugh (Sun 12.30).

Divine Mercy Prayer
In honour of Divine Mercy there will be an hour of prayer and adoration in St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday, 10th August between 3 and 4.00pm. All welcome.

Good Luck to the Cats!
We join in wishing the Kilkenny hurlers all the best this weekend. We especially wish every success to those from our parish involved with the teams.

Year of Vocation Pilgrim Walk
The focus for the month of August for the Year of Vocation is pilgrimage. On Sunday 24th August there will be a Year of Vocation pilgrim walk from Shannonbridge to Clonmacnois, Co Offaly. People are invited from across the country to join with us to make this walk and to pray for vocations. The event is being organised in conjunction with the Ursulines in Shannonbridge. The pilgrim walk will start at 2.00pm sharp on Sunday, 24th August at the church car park in Shannonbridge. The route from there to Clonmacnois is approximately four miles. There will be several stops along the route for prayers and reflection at the coffin trees, the Mass Rock, St Ciaran’s Well and then into the monastic site for prayer and reflection at the Cross of Scriptures and Temple Ciarán. Parishes around the country are encouraged to invite pilgrims to this event.
People are also invited to send in their prayer petitions which will be prayed for during the pilgrimage on August 24th. Petitions can be emailed to the following address: bdrumm@catholiccommunications.ie or posted to - Year of Vocation Office, Columba Centre, Maynooth, Co Kildare.

“The Rock” Youth Project
We are very grateful to all who helped or supported so generously with bag-filling at Supervalu. Over €2,800 was collected.

Our Lady’s Island, Wexford
Each day of the pilgrimage season, 15th August to 8th September: Mass at 3.00pm and 8.00pm. Pilgrims are invited to make their own way around the island reflecting on the mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary.
· Friday, 15th August: Feast of the Assumption: Mass at 3.00pm. Eucharistic Procession at 3.45pm concluding with benediction.
· Sunday, 17th August: Mass and General Anointing of the Sick at 3.00pm.
· Sunday, 24th August: Liturgy of Light at 8.30pm.
· Sunday, 31st August: Mass at 3.00pm and 8.00pm.
· Sunday, 7th September: Mass at 3.00pm and 8.00pm.

Assumption of Our Lady
Next Friday, 15th August is the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin into Heaven. Beginning with the Vigil Masses on Thursday evening services in our parish will follow the usual weekend timetable. There will be no Mass on Friday evening.

Clonmacnois Youth Festival
The Youth 2000 Summer Festival will take place near the ancient ruins of the Clonmacnois monastic site in Co. Offaly. The festival is for young people age 16 - 35 and will take place over the weekend of Thursday, 14th - Sunday, 17th August 2008. The weekend will include inspiring talks, dramas, a concert, prayer, Mass, games, and times of sharing. It promises to be a great opportunity for young people for all around Ireland to explore their Catholic faith, meet new friends and have some craic! This is a donation-only retreat. Free buses are available throughout the country - just bring a sleeping bag and a pair of wellies. (Over 18s may like to bring their own tent.) For further information see posters at the back of the church or www.youth2000.ie or 01 675 3690.

St. Fiacre’s Well Novena
The annual St. Fiacre’s Well novena begins at 8.00pm on Saturday, 23rd August and continues each evening at the same time. Bishop Freeman has accepted our invitation to be principal celebrant at this year’s open-air Mass on Sunday, 31st August.
St. Fiacre’s Well is approached through the grounds of Sheastown House a few miles out the Bennettsbridge Road.

Organ Recital
Ronan Murray - organist, pianist, songwriter, sacred, classical, pop, improvisation - accompanied by his sister Niamh Murray - soprano (widely regarded as one of Ireland’s most versatile talented and charismatic artists). St. John’s Catholic Church, Dublin Road at 3pm on Sunday afternoon, 17th August. Donations in aid of Church Centenary Fund.

Golden Jubilee
We join in wishing Monsignor Francis Pattison all the best as he celebrates the golden jubilee of his ordination to the priesthood. Monsignor Pattison, who is a native of the parish, was ordained at St. Mary’s Cathedral in 1958 before going to work in San Diego, California. He is brother of former Ceann Comhairle Séamus Pattison and is a regular visitor to our parish. All are welcome to join in a special Golden Jubilee Mass at St. Patrick’s Church at 12.30pm on next Saturday.

Mayor of the Village
In aid of St. Patrick’s Houses for the Elderly. Would you or do you know of someone who would like to be Mayor/Mayoress of the Village? We are looking for people to nominate or place their own names forward for this competition. Names can be given at the Parish Office and for further information contact the Parish Office at 056 776 4400

National Grandparents Pilgrimage
The National Grandparents’ Pilgrimage takes place in Knock this year on Sunday, 14th September. This is the second year of the pilgrimage which was launched last year by Catherine Wiley. The 2007 pilgrimage was a resounding success with almost 6,000 people in attendance at the event in Knock. The Chief Celebrant at this year’s Pilgrimage Mass will be Bishop John Fleming, Bishop of Killala. Liam Lawton will be guest singer at the event and David Quinn from the Iona Institute is the keynote speaker.
There will be a link up this year between the Year of Vocation initiative and the National Grandparents’ Pilgrimage. The importance of grandparents in the lives of young people is something that needs to be highlighted and applauded. Grandparents play a unique role in the lives of their grandchildren. They have had an invaluable role in passing on tradition, culture and most of all the Christian faith to countless generations of people.
Last year’s Grandparents’ Pilgrimage saw children from all over the country writing prayers for their grandparents. A selection of these prayers as well as additional information on the pilgrimage is available on the official website for the pilgrimage — www.nationalgrandparentspilgrimage.com

Redecorating St. Fiacre’s Church
As the building work approaches an end at St. Fiacre’s Church we are about to redecorate the building itself. The walls outside and inside will be washed and painted shortly. Preparatory work will begin soon - we ask your patience as we try some colour samples.
We also intend to recover the floors in the church and this will be attended to as soon as the other ’dirtier’ work is completed.
Thanks to all who have been so patient during the past 14 months. The work will be completed very soon.

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time 3rd August 2008

Faith’s Strength
I’ve just finished reading The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins with my faith intact despite running the gauntlet of rational, and at times seemingly irrational, assault. I think that his approach to eradicating religion is rather like fighting fire with wind. It may blow it out, but then again it may just fan the flames.
Anyway, today’s second reading reminds us of a very important fact with regard to faith. It’s not primarily a matter of our relationship with God, but of God’s relationship with us. That’s its strength.
Paul puts it boldly as he asks: ‘Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword’ separate us from Christ? To which he gives us a resounding No! Neither will ‘death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come...’ (including science and Dawkin’s book?) – nothing, simply nothing, can separate us from the love of God. In other words nothing can touch God’s love for us. That’s what we believe, wonderfully unscientific though it may be.
And the faith we have – or, more accurately, that has us – is not for hoarding but for sharing. It’s a gift to improve the quality of human life by bringing out all that is good within and around us. That’s the point of today’s Gospel reading too. The crowds are hungry, in a barren place. Jesus tells his followers – those with faith in him – to feed the crowds. Once the faith is present, the miracle happens.
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD

Castlecomer District Hospital
There will be a night of music and dance in aid of the Castlecomer District Hospital on Friday, 22nd of August in Castlecomer Community Hall at 8pm. Performances will include African Drumming, IrishDancing, Hip Hop and contemporary dance. For further information, contact Alan Gleeson on 087 645 2015

Questions People Ask
Q. Could heaven be boring? Eternal life, going on and on with no end, doesn’t appeal to me at all.
A. Try thinking of eternity not in terms of time but as a total experience of love, joy, celebration etc. We get little glimpses of the eternal in moments of beauty when we would like the clock to stop right there. Jesus promised: ‘I will see you again and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you’ (John 16:22). St. Paul wrote that no eye has seen, no ear has heard and no imagination has managed to visualise all that God has prepared for those who love him. That doesn’t sound like the recipe for boredom!
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Eileen Grace, 6 Cypress Court, Loughboy. Funeral prayers at Johnston’s Funeral Home at 6.00pm on Sunday followed by removal to St. Fiacre’s Church. Requiem Mass on Monday at 11.00am followed by burial at St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Sr. Vianney Hickey, St. John of God Convent, College Road. Sr. Imelda Mullins, St Patrick’s Convent, Kells Road. Paddy O’Neill, Castlecomer. Richard White, Dublin Road. John Bosco O’Mahony, Wexford.
Anniversaries: Margaret & Lawrence Langton (Sat 7.00), Angela Tiernan (Sun 10.00), Martin Mulhall (Sun 11.00), Tom Burns (Sun 12.00), Ger Dooley & P.J. O’Neill (Sun 12.30), Paddy Hickey, Mick Coonan, Chrissie Drennan, David Gaffney, James Browne, Joseph Brown, Sheila & George Mastino, Marie Kealy Carson, Doreen Tallent, Jack Allen, Michael Browne, Clare Mahon, Rita Thompson.

Bank Holiday Mass Times
There will be no Mass at 9.30am or 10.30am on Monday. Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church at 11.00am. Requiem Mass will be celebrated at St. Fiacre’s at 11.00am.
St. Rioch’s Cemetery Mass
The annual cemetery Mass in St. Rioch’s Cemetery will take place on Thursday, 7th August at 7.30pm. 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, 3rd August at 3pm. All are welcome.

Vincentian Annual Pilgrimage
Join the Vincentian Fathers, Daughters of Charity, Society of St. Vincent De Paul and the Sisters of the Holy Faith as they pilgrimage to Knock to honour Our Blessed Lady and give thanks for the many blessings we receive. Pilgrimage will take place on Saturday, 13th September 2008.

Our Lady’s Island, Wexford
Each day of the pilgrimage season, 15th August to 8th September: Mass at 3.00pm and 8.00pm. Pilgrims are invited to make their own way around the island reflecting on the mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary.
· Friday, 15th August: Feast of the Assumption: Mass at 3.00pm. Eucharistic Procession at 3.45pm concluding with benediction.
· Sunday, 17th August: Mass and General Anointing of the Sick at 3.00pm.
· Sunday, 24th August: Liturgy of Light at 8.30pm.
· Sunday, 31st August: Mass at 3.00pm and 8.00pm.
· Sunday, 7th September: Mass at 3.00pm and 8.00pm.
Special Evenings of Reflection
· Friday, 22nd August: Mass at 8.00pm. Very Rev. Aidan Jones: “Our Lady and the Other Christian Churches”.
· Friday, 29th August: Mass at 8.00pm. Prayer Around the Cross at 9.00pm.
· Friday, 5th September: Island Voices Gospel Choir Concert of Sacred Music at the parish church at 8.30pm.

“The Rock” Youth Project
We are very grateful to all who helped or supported so generously with bag-filling at Supervalu. Over €2,800 was collected.

Clonmacnois Youth Festival
The Youth 2000 Summer Festival will take place near the ancient ruins of the Clonmacnois monastic site in Co. Offaly. The festival is for young people age 16 - 35 and will take place over the weekend of Thursday, 14th - Sunday, 17th August 2008. The weekend will include inspiring talks, dramas, a concert, prayer, Mass, games, and times of sharing. It promises to be a great opportunity for young people for all around Ireland to explore their Catholic faith, meet new friends and have some craic!
This is a donation-only retreat. Free buses are available throughout the country—just bring a sleeping bag and a pair of wellies. (Over 18s may like to bring their own tent.)
For further information see posters at the back of the church or www.youth2000.ie or 01 675 3690.

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje
Pilgrimage departs Kilkenny on Friday, 19th September and returns on Friday, 26th September. Spiritual Director is Fr. Christy Fox MHM. Coach to Dublin Airport included. Cost €669 inclusive. Bookings: Ann 776 5774 or 086 882 5622.

Redecorating St. Fiacre’s Church
As the building work approaches an end at St. Fiacre’s Church we are about to redecorate the building itself. The walls outside and inside will be washed and painted shortly. Preparatory work will begin soon - we ask your patience as we try some colour samples.
We also intend to recover the floors in the church and this will be attended to as soon as the other ’dirtier’ work is completed.
Thanks to all who have been so patient during the past 14 months. The work will be completed very soon.

St. Fiacre’s Well Novena
The annual St. Fiacre’s Well novena begins at 8.00pm on Saturday, 23rd August and continues each evening at the same time. Bishop Freeman has accepted our invitation to be principal celebrant at this year’s open-air Mass on Sunday, 31st August.
St. Fiacre’s Well is approached through the grounds of Sheastown House a few miles out the Bennettsbridge Road.

Prayer is Important
“Often we are not convinced of the importance of prayer and that is why we easily neglect it. Above all, we live it with little depth. We must believe that with prayer we can make many people return to the Lord.”
(Cardinal Angelo Comastri,
Archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica,
speaking in the Vatican this week.)


St. Patrick’s Parish July Draw

Prize Winner Promoter
1st Prize - €1000 Teresa O’Brien, 17 St. Fiacre’s Place Lena McCarthy
2nd Prize - €200 John Walsh John Comerford
3rd Prize - €100 Mary Walton, The Glebe, Kells Road Mary Parsons
4th Prize - €100 Nancy Doyle, Rose Inn St Kitty Byrne
5th Prize - €100 Pat Millea, Wallslough Michael Costello
6th Prize - €50 Peter Barrett, Waterford Road Helen Devlin
7th Prize - €50 Anthony Kavanagh, Archers Crescent Brigid Armstrong
8th Prize - €50 Shane Murray, 11 Beechpark Breda Murray
9th Prize - €50 Rita Holohan, St. John of God School Ena McEntee
10th Prize - €50 Derry Noonan, Larchfield Kitty Byrne
11th Prize - €50 Niamh Brennan, Archer’s Court Michael Brennan
12th Prize - €50 Jane Gillman, Springfields Pauline Purcell
13th prize - €50 Jean Rafter, Tennypark Ann Condon
Promoters’ Prizes
Joan Cody, Kilfera and Mary White, Sheastown