The Baptism of the Lord, 11th January 2009

No Empty Word
As a missionary in Indonesia I baptised hundreds of babies, but only one adult. Part of a Holy Saturday Vigil, that adult baptism hugely impressed the congregation by the dignity of its rite and the sincerity of its candidate. Seeing an adult freely and joyfully commit himself to Jesus for life in public was a compelling sign of God’s spirit at work. Today’s feast, the Baptism of the Lord, is a reminder of our own baptism. For those of us baptised as babies it’s a non-event because we can’t remember it. Its impact is not what it might have been had we been adult when baptised. However, we have ratified what our parents did on our behalf either negatively by not discarding our faith, or positively be making a conscious decision at some stage of our life to continue being a follower of Jesus. Either way, today’s readings where God says that God’s word does not return empty but fulfils its mission, and where God calls Jesus the beloved son in whom he is well pleased, applies to us baptised. In baptised God gives us a mission. It’s a mission to make God known to our world, especially to those who do not know God. While that mission is general to all baptised, the way we carry it out is specific to ourselves. Realising we have it, and discovering how to carry it our, gives purpose to our life – and makes us the beloved son or daughter in whom the Father is well pleased.
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD

Divine Mercy
There will be an hour of prayer and adoration in honour of Divine Mercy in St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday, 11th January from 3 - 4pm. All are welcome.

4-2-1 Parish Drugs Initiative
The 4-2-1 Parish Drugs Training Initiative will continue at the Parish Centre, Bohernatounish Road on Monday evening between 7.30 and 9.30pm. Those already enrolled are asked to attend.

Eucharistic Adoration
Eucharistic Adoration is the adoration of Jesus Christ present in the Holy Eucharist. The Eucharist is displayed in a special holder called a monstrance and people come to pray and worship Jesus continually throughout the day and often the night. Christ’s great love for us was shown when he was crucified on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins and give us eternal life. He loves us without limit, and offers Himself to us in the Sacrament of the Eucharist. Can we not give Jesus a few minutes of love and adoration in return?
This ancient practice continues in St. Fiacre’s Church on Mondays between 11am and 10pm and St. Patrick’s Church on Fridays between 10am and 1pm and between 4pm and 9pm. Please feel free to drop in without obligation at any time during the above hours. However, we are eagerly seeking volunteers to commit to particular times on these days. Please contact the Parish Office (776 4400) or one of the priests if interested.

Questions People Ask
Q. Is there any special reason why the Holy Spirit appeared as a dove?
A. This is a good example of a theme running through the Bible. The dove descending on water recalls the creation story in which God’s spirit hovered over the primitive waters in making order out of chaos. Then, later, it was a dove bearing on alive branch which let Noah know that the flood waters had subsided as peace with God was restored. In the Song of Songs, the lover calls on the beloved as a beautiful dove. So, the dove is an apt symbol for the Holy Spirit in the ordering of creation, in divine peace, in intimate love.
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Young at Heart Club
The club will re-open for the New Year in the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Bohernatounish Road from 2.30pm to 4.30pm on Wednesday, 14th January. New members welcome.

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Liam O’Connor, Patrick Street. Funeral prayers at Johnston’s Funeral Home at 5pm on Sunday followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church. Requiem Mass at 11am on Monday followed by burial in Foulkstown Cemetery. Teresa Holden, Kellsgrange, Kells. Funeral Prayers at Johnston's Funeral Home at 6.30pm on Sunday followed by removal to Kells Church. Requiem Mass at 11am on Monday followed by burial in Ballyfoyle Cemetery. Rita Burke, 84 Larchfield. Tom Halpin, Stephen’s Street. Michael Shortall, Luton & Maudlin Street. Kitty Kehoe, New Orchard. Jo Hannon, Portlaoise. Thomas Doran, Galway.
Anniversaries: John Bradley (Sat 6.15), Michael Fitzpatrick (Sat 7.00), Philomena Brennan (Sun 9.30), Maura Nolan (Sun 10.00), Frank O’Shea (Sun 10.30), Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00), Beattie O’Connell (Sun 12.00), Sean Devane (Sun 12.30), Ellen Buggy (Tue 10.30), John and Maimie Brett, Terry Brett, Christopher & Mary Ryan, Lily Power, Mary Keary, Michael & Ellen McEvoy, John Lanigan, William, Tess and Joan Murphy, Ellen Buggy, Johnny Brennan, Denis Guilfoyle, Catherine Brett, Patrick, Delia & Margaret Taylor, Bernie Kelly, Denis Nyhan.
Intentions Next Weekend: Anna Campion (Sat 6.15), Oliver Mannion (Sat 7.00), Patrick Morris (Sun 9.30), Paul Prodromou (Sun 10.30), Maureen O’Shea (Sun 11.00), Sally Mullally (Sun 12.00), Thomas Walton (Sun 12.30).
Please send names for inclusion in the anniversary list to the Parish Office as early as possible in the week.

Meals on Wheels
Voluntary drivers are needed for the Kilkenny Social Service “Meals on Wheels” facility. If you are a car owner and could spare one hour per week - we would like to hear from you. Our meals need wheels for this much needed service for those in our care and the elderly who are housebound. Contact Kitty/Kay at 772 1685.

St. Patrick's Brass & Reed Band
The local Brass and Reed Band presents an Elvis Spectacular featuring Kevin O’Dwyer as Elvis. All star cast includes: The Memphis Mafia, The Uptown Horns, Eugene Dewberry and guests The Uptown Band. Langton House Hotel on Friday, 16th January 9.30pm. Doors open at 9pm. Tickets now at Langton’s Hotel and from members of the Brass & Reed Band. Admission €10.

Knights of St. Columbanus Lunch
The Knights of St. Columbanus annual lunch will be held on Sunday, 11th January at 1pm in the Carlton Ballroom.

Church Gate Collection
The Irish Wheelchair Association will hold their Church Gate collection this weekend .

CAO Information Evening
A Parents’ CAO Information Evening takes place in the Library of Carlow College – St. Patrick’s, Carlow on Monday, 19 January at 7.30 pm. Explanations will be offered and questions answered on all aspects of the CAO form and process. All are welcome. Light refreshments will be available. Inquiries to the College on 059 915 3200.

Stephens’ Kicks Back Into Action
James Stephens GAA Juvenile Committee is preparing to kick start their juvenile hurling season for 2009. The underage club will be holding a juvenile membership/registration night in the clubrooms (upstairs) on Friday, 23rd January at 7pm sharp. All boys aged from 5 years old to under 12 are encouraged to come along to the registration night and sign up for what is guaranteed to be a FUN-tastic hurling and football year. We encourage all kids that may not have played hurling to sign up and give it a try as it is a tremendous team sport and a great way of making friends. Juvenile membership for 2009 is set at €30 for the entire season which is fantastic value. Any enquiries, please contact Juvenile Chairman Mark Tyrrell @ 086-258 9760.

St. Patrick’s Parish Centre
We are heartened by the positive comments of all who have come to visit our new St. Patrick’s Parish Centre. The Open Days will continue following 6.15pm Mass on Saturday and from after 10.30am Mass to 4.00pm on Sunday. You are welcome to come in, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and have a look around. Bring your children along and have their faces painted and there might be some goodies still around after Christmas for them.
This centre has been provided by the people of St. Patrick's Parish for the people of the parish and we hope that all parishioners will take ownership of it. It is a tremendous resource to have in the heart of our community and we are confident that it will serve the needs of this and future generations for many years to come. Come in and have a look around.

Blood Donors Required
The Irish Blood Transfusion Service seeks blood donors for their forthcoming clinics in Kilkenny.
The blood donation clinic will be at The Rivercourt Hotel, Kilkenny on Sunday, 11th January from 11.30am to 3.30pm; Monday, 12th & Tuesday, 13th & Wednesday, 14th & Thursday, 15th January from 4.30pm to 8.30pm each day.
3,000 blood donations are needing in Ireland every week. It’s good to give blood.

Recovering From Depression
Aware as part of Depression Awareness Week Nationwide (DAWN) 19th to 24th January is hosting a talk entitled “Recovering from Depression” in the Talbot Hotel, Carlow on Monday, 19th January at 8pm. The speakers will be Dr. Ben Parmeter and Annette (an individual with experience of depression). Admission is free and all are welcome. Further details available from mick@awaresoutheast.com or at 053 918 4525.
Website: www.awaresoutheast.com

Education Centre Presents
Kilkenny Education Centre presents a lecture by David Coleman, Clinical Psychologist at Hotel Kilkenny on Thursday, 12th March 2009 at 7pm. David Coleman is a clinical psychologist, broadcaster and author, has been working with children and families for over ten years. He has become well known in Ireland as the presenter of the hit RTE television series Families in Trouble and more recently 21st Century Child. Topics being discussed on the evening include:
Dealing with difficult/challenging behaviour.
Coping with temper tantrums (up to age 12)
Difficult behaviour as an expression of a feeling. How to use this to your benefit.
Admission €10. tickets available from the Kilkenny Education Centre, Seville Lodge, Callan Road, Kilkenny 056 776 0200.

Second Sunday of Christmas, 4th January 2008

Christmas Cribs
We are fortunate to have wonderful Christmas Cribs in each of the churches in St. Patrick’s Parish. The representation of the scene of the nativity is a tradition that is almost a thousand years old. In the year 1223 St Francis decided to celebrate the feast of Christmas in a new way. His aim was to help people to better call to mind the poor surroundings in which Jesus was born and to make the wondrous event of the incarnation more real to the people of the time. In the town of Greccio, with the help of a local landowner, a nativity scene was set up with a stable, animals and straw. People came at night with candles and torches to attend holy Mass by the crib and, seeing the scene, be reminded of God's love for us in sending his only son to be born in the poverty of a manger. Saint Bonaventure said of the scene, “Many brothers and good people came and during the night the weather also was beautiful. Many lights were kindled, hymns were sung with great solemnity so that the whole wood echoed with the sound, and the man of God stood by the manger, filled with the utmost joy, and shedding tears of devotion and compassion. The manger had been so arranged that Mass was celebrated on it and Francis sang the gospel and preached on the Nativity of Christ our King, and whenever he pronounced His name with infinite tenderness he called Him the ‘little Babe of Bethlehem’”.
The tradition quickly caught on and cribs were erected in churches and Christian homes throughout the world. We invite you to spend a few moments reflecting on the Nativity of Christ by visiting one or more of our parish cribs during the Christmas Season.
“To set up the crib at home can be a simple but effective way of presenting the faith and transmitting it to one’s children. The manger helps us to contemplate the mystery of God’s love who revealed himself in the poverty and simplicity of the Bethlehem cave. It continues to be a sign also for us, men and women of the 21st century. There is no other Christmas.”
(Pope Benedict XVI)

The Feast of the Epiphany
Tuesday next, 6th January, is the Feast of the Epiphany of our Lord. It is a holyday of obligation and Mass times will follow the usual weekend pattern in our parish.

Our Lady of Kilkenny
The monthly rosary on the first Sunday in James’ Green at the Statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny continues this Sunday, 4th January at 3pm. All are welcome.

Knights of St. Columbanus Lunch
The Knights of St. Columbanus annual lunch will be held on Sunday, 11th January at 1pm in the Carlton Ballroom.

Mass at Westcourt, Callan
The monthly Mass for the canonisation of Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice will be celebrated at Westcourt on Monday, 5th January at 7.30pm. The members of the Callan Friendship Group are arranging the liturgy.

St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Patrick’s Parish Branch of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place on Friday, 9th January in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre after the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church.
St. Joseph's Young Priests Society is a society of lay people which is approved by the Irish Episcopal Conference. It was founded in 1895 by Mrs Olivia Taaffe from Co. Galway. The purpose of the society is two fold:
· to foster vocations to the priesthood and religious life and to assist financially in the education of students for the priesthood.
· to promote the vocation of the laity, to foster a greater understanding and love of the Mass and to help members to be Christ’s presence in every aspect of life.
The society works through branches. A group of committed people in a parish form a branch, they elect officers, meet monthly to pray and organize the activities of the Society in their community. New members welcome.

St. Patrick’s Parish Centre
All parishioners are invited to visit the new Parish Centre on Bohernatounish Road next weekend. The centre will be open from 11am to 4.00pm on Saturday, 10th January and on Sunday, 11th January from after 10.30am Mass to 4.00pm.
You are welcome to come in, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and have a look around the centre. Bring your children along and have their faces painted and there might be some goodies still around after Christmas for them.
This centre has been provided by the people of St. Patrick's Parish for the people of the parish and we hope that all parishioners will take ownership of it. It is a tremendous resource to have in the heart of our community and we are confident that it will serve the needs of this and future generations for many years to come.

Evening Mass in Kilkenny City
Mass is celebrated each weekday evening at 6.15pm at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny. However, please note Mass is not celebrated on the eve of holydays or on holydays. Therefore there will be no 6.15pm Mass at the Cathedral on Monday and Tuesday of this week. The vigil Mass for the Feast of the Epiphany will be at the Cathedral at 8.00pm.

Questions People Ask
Q. ‘In the beginning was the word.’ How may I understand the poetic prologue of John’s gospel?
A. The focus of John is on the divine origin of Jesus. He develops the coming of Jesus in five stages. Jesus is identified as the eternal Word, truly divine, before any creation. Then in the act of creation the Word of God calls things into being. The Word was the source of light in the revelation of God through the prophets. When Jesus was born of Mary, the Word was made flesh. In his mission, Jesus is the inviting Word: ‘To all who accepted him he gave the power to become children of God.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Kathleen Doyle, 21 Dominic Street. Requiem Mass at 11am on Sunday in St. Mary’s Cathedral followed by burial in St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Eileen Lynch, O’Loughlin Court. Requiem Mass at 12 noon on Sunday in St. John’s Church followed by burial in Carrick-on-Suir. Sr. Theophane Duggan, St. John of God Community, College Road. Thomas Drohan, 76 Marble Crest. William Fitzpatrick, 44 Fr. Murphy Square. Rosanna Byrne, James’ Green. Eddie O’ Dwyer, California and 16 Corcoran Terrace.
Anniversaries: Billy and Anastatia Hickey (Sat 6.15), Dr. Harry Roche (Sun 12.00), Peg Larkin (Mon 9.30), Christina Leahy & Rose Leahy (Mon 6.15), Joseph & Anna Dunphy (Tue 11.00), Teresa Walsh (Fri 10.30). Bernadette Warde, Edward Taylor, Eamonn O’Farrell, Maura Molloy, Annie & Michael Ruth, Ann Smyth, James & Annie O’Grady, William Kavanagh, Agnes and Robert Brannigan, Lorenzo Mahony, Mick Kelly.
Intentions for next weekend: John Bradley (Sat 6.15), Maura Nolan (Sun 10.00), Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00), Beattie O’Connell (Sun 12.00), Sean Devane (Sun 12.30).

Call for an End to Gaza Hostilities
In a joint statement released on Wednesday, Cardinal Seán Brady, Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, and the Church of Ireland Primate and Archbishop of Armagh, the Most Revd Alan Harper, OBE, spoke of their visit to the Holy Land in 2008, and their “distress and deepening concern for all innocent victims” which they have experienced following the “unfolding tragedy of Gaza.”
“We call upon the authorities in both Israel and Gaza immediately to disengage and cease all hostilities to enable a permanent ceasefire to be negotiated. Only when violence has ceased will it be possible to begin to negotiate a peace that will last.” The Church leaders called upon all people of faith “to pray for all caught up in the conflict.”

Wisdom
A Chinese proverb tells us that the first step towards wisdom is getting things by their right names. What more important name to get right than ‘God’? So, is our response to that name chilly, wary or warm? In Things Hidden, Richard Rohr points out, ‘Most people do not realise that humanity did not, by and large, expect love from God before the biblical revelation.’ Capricious pagan gods were to be placated. Those who submitted to them, though intelligent, lacked wisdom in naming them ‘gods’ instead of ‘illusions’. Our God is not an illusion, or capricious. God is steadfast in love. Made in God’s image and likeness, so too are we. Any response to God on our part other than love would be unworthy of God. God gives love, wants love; is love. Today’s First Reading calls God ‘the Most High’ . That’s where we set our sights: high. We don’t lower them to near worship of superficial entertainment, or to escapist busyness that blinds us to the past, locks us to the present and numbs us to the future. Instead let’s use right names and call the past ‘teacher’, the present ‘opportunity’, and the future ‘hope’. Then life can bring us wisdom, and fashion us in full. Otherwise, the words of Greek tragedian Aeschylus (525 - 456 BCE) may haunt us by their beauty and their dread: ‘Even in our sleep, pain which cannot forget falls drop by drop upon the heart until, in our despair, against our will, comes wisdom through the awful grace of God.

Fr. Tom Cahill SVD

Good Food for Healthy Living
Copies of our parish cookery book are available in the sacristies at €10 each. The book contains more than 120 easy-to-follow recipes for starters, soups, main courses, desserts, buns and cakes which will get the taste buds watering and the kitchen utensils ringing. The recipes were submitted by various sportspeople from our parish, city and county.

Kieran Goss in Concert
Tickets for the forthcoming Kieran Goss concert at the Watergate Theatre are available at the Parish Office. Revenue from the tickets purchased at the Parish Office goes to help defray parish expenses. Kieran Goss will be in concert at the Watergate Theatre, Kilkenny on Friday, 20th February 2009 and tickets cost €25 each.

Blood Donors Required
The Irish Blood Transfusion Service seeks blood donors for their forthcoming clinics in Kilkenny.
The blood donation clinic will be at The Rivercourt Hotel, Kilkenny on Sunday, 11th January from 11.30am to 3.30pm; Monday, 12th & Tuesday, 13th & Wednesday, 14th & Thursday, 15th January from 4.30pm to 8.30pm each day.
3,000 blood donations are needing in Ireland every week. It’s good to give blood.

The Holy Family, 28th December 2008

Family Fortunes
The Word of God doesn’t deal in half measures, even when telling a story. Take today’s First Reading, from Genesis. Abraham, incredibly, becomes a father at the overripe age of 100. And Sarah, advanced in years and barren all her life, gives birth to the child. The message is clear and challenging: nothing is impossible with God.
What’s also clear is that God’s gift of life blossoms in spite of all threats to it. In Isaac’s case, parents so old they could die while he is still an infant. What would happen then? But God is not stupid, confused, or whimsical. Nobody and no thing can thwart God’s plan. Even when it seems, incomprehensible, that God wants Isaac dead you know that there’s something else at stake. That’s the conviction that you can’t go wrong by being faithful to God’s will – even when it seems to make no sense. Did it make sense for Jesus to be conceived out of wedlock? Not a good start to life. Did tongues wag? Did it make sense for Jesus to be crucified as a despised criminal? Not a good end to life. Did fingers point? Yet God was fulfilling a plan in spite of it – and continues to do so today. Today’s feast has an important message for all families, but especially those experiencing difficulties. Wagging tongues, pointing fingers, and apparent failure in life mean nothing to God. What count are: integrity, faith in God’s promise and the courage of take God at God’s word and act upon it – in full measure.
Fr. Tom Cahill. SVD

Thanks
Frs. Dan, Roderick and Liam would like to say a sincere thanks to all our parishioners for your generous support this Christmas and indeed throughout the year. We are greatly appreciative of your prayers, kind words and material support. We wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas Season and a wonderful New Year

Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Jamie O’Connor, Dublin
Anniversaries: Michel Kenny (Sat 6.15), Eddie Taylor (Sat 7.00), Betty Furniss (Sun 9.30), Josephine & Paddy McGrath (Sun 11.00), Geraldine Cody (Sun 12.30), Séamus Fry, Milo & Ann Fry, Patrick Burke, Edward & Elizabeth Geoghegan, Richard & Maureen Free, Mary O’Dwyer, John Hayes, Francis, James & Samuel Dunlop, Maurice & Margaret Maher, Seán & Mary Fitzpatrick, Catherine, Christy & Eileen Grace, Nora Bambrick, Roseanna Smyth, Paddy Doyle, William & Ellen Bergin, Liam Costello, Michael Davin, Bill Esmonde, Martin & Mary Doheny, Martin, Molly & Peg Browne, Brendan Doheny, Anna Reynolds.
Intentions for next weekend: Billy and Anastatia Hickey (Sat 6.15, Dr. Harry Roche (Sun 12.00).

Aware Support Group
This group, which meets every Monday at 8pm in St Mary’s Centre, Haughney Green (behind Cineplex) continues to operate over the Christmas. The group is open to those who are experiencing depression. Further information from Mick on 087 94 98100 or email mick@awaresoutheast.com The Aware Helpline is 1890 303 302.

St. Patrick’s Parish Centre
We are now taking bookings from groups and individuals who are interested in using our new Parish Centre. If you have not done so already please use the form opposite to apply. A list of costs and an invitation to view the facilities will be sent to you.
We ask people interested in using our facilities to note that we are non-profit making and any charges are to pay for the running costs of such a facility.
In the next few weeks we will be having an open weekend. More on this later.
Those who have volunteered to help with the running of the centre will be contacted in the coming weeks.

Questions People Ask
Q. Is there any historical evidence of the flight of the holy family into Egypt?
A. The only source is the Gospel of Matthew. Documents of the reign of Herod have no mention of the edict to kill the children of Bethlehem, although such an action would not have been out of character. In his first two chapters Matthew’s purpose is to portray Jesus as fulfilling many Old Testament figures. Egypt links Jesus with Moses, born there at a time when Pharaoh decreed the killing of the male children of the Hebrews. Matthew may have taken liberty with historical facts so as to portray Jesus as the new Moses and agent of the new covenant.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

St. Vincent De Paul
The St. Patrick’s Conference of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul can be contacted through the parish office or through any of the priests. Those who require help can leave their name and details in a sealed envelope and mark it for the attention of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. All requests are treated with the strictest confidence and only members of the society open such correspondence.

Parish Mass Times
Mass times for this week will be as follows:
Monday to Friday: St. Fiacre’s 10.30am
Monday to Thursday: St. Patrick’s 11.00am
Friday, 2nd January: 9.30am St. Patrick’s.
Saturday, 3rd January: 9.30am St. Patrick’s.

Fundraising Bag Pack
Thanks to all who helped with our very successful bag pack at Caulfield’s SuperValu last weekend. The event was a great success and raised almost €6,000 for our new parish centre. We greatly appreciate the generosity of those who contributed and those who gave their time to this fundraiser. Thanks also to Caulfield's SuperValu for their help and support and to Rita Byrne and Mary Parsons who organised the event. All money raised goes to reducing our debt on our new centre.

Important Notice
There is no longer any Parish activity at the former presbytery on Ormonde Road. Please do not put envelopes, anniversaries or any sort of notices into the house at Ormonde Road. Notices etc may not get collected in time for publication.
All correspondence can be left into the Parish Office in the new Parish Centre, St. Patrick’s or St. Fiacre’s Sacristies or any of the priests’ houses at Loughboy. Please have notices for the newsletter in by Thursday at the latest.

St. Patrick's Brass & Reed Band
The band presents an Elvis Spectacular featuring Kevin O’Dwyer as Elvis. All star cast includes: The Memphis Mafia, The Uptown Horns, Eugene Dewberry and guests the Uptown Band. Langton House Hotel, Friday 16th January 9.30pm. Doors open at 9pm. Tickets now at Langtons also from members of the Brass & Reed Band. Admission €10.

4th Sunday of Advent, 21st December 2008

Turn Off the Knob
If the first sign of maturity is discovering that the volume knob also turns to the left, perhaps the first sign of spiritual maturity is discovering that God knows how to turn the knob. Today’s First Reading says as much when God tells Nathan to say to David: ‘Are you the one to build me a house to live in?’. In other words: ‘Do you think that I need you?’ We can forget that God rules, not us. Our Second Reading shows God at work within human history as it talks of the mystery kept hidden for long ages but now disclosed. God creates the mystery, keeps it a mystery, and in God’s own good time reveals it. Out emptiness may be God’s purpose being fulfilled – though not as we expect it. What seems like inactivity, or indifference, on God’s part in the face of human tribulation may be God’s wisdom at work waiting for the opportune time to act – a time constrained by human freedom and its consequences. We need humility to admit that we don’t know it all and can be wrong in our judgments. And we need trust to accept that God’s judgement is never wrong. God wasn’t wrong in choosing a manger instead of a throne, in choosing faithfulness to the mission over personal safety, in accepting death on a cross rather than public acclaim based on false hopes. God wasn’t wrong because these ended in resurrection and glory. But no one could see it at the time. This Advent, can we?
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD

Happy Christmas
The priests and non-ordained members of the Parish Team join in wishing one and all a very happy and holy Christmas. May the celebration of the Christ Child’s birth bring peace and joy to you and to your homes.
This has been a wonderful year for our parish community and we sincerely thank all who have contributed in any way to the development of our parish. Well done.

We Welcome our Visitors
We are delighted to welcome so many people to our parish this Christmas. Some have moved here and are celebrating their first Christmas in St. Patrick’s; others have returned from elsewhere to rejoin their families and friends and some have just dropped in for the festivities. We welcome one and all and hope you enjoy your time among us.

Carol Service
Our annual Christmas Carol Service will be at St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown at 3pm on this Sunday. All our parish choirs join voices in anticipating the celebration of our Saviour’s birth. This is usually a popular event and we suggest you come early to have any hope of getting a seat. Mince pies and teas served afterwards in the Kilkenny Rugby Club. All welcome.

Penitential Service
Our annual Advent Penitential Service will be held at St. Patrick’s Church at 7.30pm on Monday, 22nd December. Visiting priest will assist with the service. All are invited to come and join in our parish preparation for Christmas.

Fundraising Bag Pack
Thanks to all who helped with our very successful bag pack at Caulfield’s Supervalu this weekend. The event was a great success and we appreciate the generosity of those who contributed and those who gave their time.

Eucharistic Adoration
There will be no Eucharistic Adoration in St. Patrick's Church on Friday, 26th December or Friday, 2nd January. Eucharistic Adoration will resume again on Friday, 9th January 2009. New Adorers always welcome.

Retiring Altar Servers
A word of thanks to those altar servers who have recently retired. You have served your parish well during the past number of years and we appreciate your commitment and hard work.

Christmas Run
Fancy working up an appetite for the Christmas Lunch? Why not join the annual Kilkenny City Harriers Christmas Run on Christmas morning? The run begins at 11am at the Kilkenny Design Workshop on the Parade and all proceeds go to the Kilkenny St. Vincent De Paul Society.

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Patrick Cleere, Foulkstown and Vicar Street. Funeral prayers at Johnston’s Funeral Home at 6.30pm on Sunday followed by removal to St. Canice’s Church. Requiem Mass at 11am on Monday followed by burial at St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Reginald John Nolan, late of “Richview”, Castlecomer Road and Dari Salem, Tanzania. Funeral expected to arrive at St. Patrick's Church for Requiem Mass at 12 noon on Tuesday. Burial afterwards to Foulkstown Cemetery. Frances O’Connor, Riverview. Marian Tennison, Millennium Court. Margaret Dunne, Tullamore. Paddy Flynn, Blackrock & James Green.
Months Mind: John Glynn (Sun 12.00)
Anniversaries: Elizabeth Comerford (Sat 6.15), Tommie Tyrell (Sat 7.00), Florrie Cleere (Sun 9.30), John & Jeff Power (Sun 10.00), Christopher & Mary Coogan (Sun 10.30), George Byrne (Sun 11.00), Mary Blanchfield (Sun 12.30), Tommy Clooney (Mon 9.30), Mary & Felix Campbell (Mon 10.30), Margaret & Patrick Cantwell (Tue 10.30), Christie Bateman, Nora Bartholomew, Patrick Wixted, Rose Wixted, Mary Dowling, Richard Gaule, Jim Dollard, Eric & Mary McGrath, Ned & Kitty Everard, John & Mary Rhatigan, Denis Lahart, Ted Carroll, Peggy Blanchfield.
Intentions for Next Weekend: Michael Kenny (Sat 6.15), Eddie Taylor (Sat 7.00), Betty Furniss (Sun 9.30), Josephine & Paddy McGrath (Sun 11.00), Geraldine Cody (Sun 12.30).

Church Gate Collection
The Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind will hold a church gate collection this weekend outside all churches.

St. Vincent De Paul
A sincere thank you to all who contributed to last weekend’s collection. Even in this time of recession our church-goers were very generous to those less well off. Thank you. The money raised will be used locally.

Parish Draw
Thanks to all who continue to support our monthly draw. The results of the December Draw are as follows:-
€1,000: Angela O’Hara, Thomastown (Helen Reade). €200: Séamus Kennedy (Mick Costello). €100: Ursula O’Neill, St. Patrick’s Close (May Larkin); P.J. Farrell, Melville Heights (Michael McLoughlin); Lilah O’Connor, Elm Green (Madeleine O’Neill). €50: John O’Neill, Archers Crescent (Brigid Armstrong); Teresa Denieffe, Gowran (Catherine Kinsella); Denis & Ann O’Shea, College Road (Denis O’Shea); Sadie McCain, Cedarwood Crescent (Des McGrath); Pauline Purcell, Parade House (Pauline Purcell); Mary Moynihan, Melville Heights (Mary Carew); Kathleen Casserly (Denis Treacy); Jim McCarthy, St. Fiacre’s Place (Lena McCarthy). Promoters’ Prizes: Catherine Kinsella, Marble Crest and Elsie Cody, Sheastown. Congratulations.

Questions People Ask
Q. How do we know that Jesus was born on the 25th December?
A. We have no idea of the date of his birth. This date was chosen as it was mid-winter’s day in the Julian calendar used in Rome in the 4th century. In our calendar the winter solstice occurs on 21st December. In an ancient Egyptian calendar it fell on 6th January, a date still followed by some Eastern Churches for Jesus’ birthday, and in our Church for celebrating the Epiphany. As pagans celebrated the winter solstice as the return of the unconquered sun, Christians celebrated the coming of Christ, the light of the world.

New Organ
We hope the newly acquired pipe organ at St. Patrick’s Church will be played for the first time during 11am Mass on Christmas Day.

3rd Sunday of Advent, 14th December 2008

A Voice in the Wilderness
Recently I contacted a company on behalf of my province. This company could register me only as ‘Mr’, ‘Mrs’ or ‘Ms’. ‘Fr’ or ‘Rev’ was not a programmed option. I settled for ‘Mr’. Then the members of my Order, on whose behalf I had approached the company, could enter the company’s computer only as ‘employees’. It was not programmed to recognize ‘religious’ as a legitimate species. Since then I’ve developed a new empathy with John the Baptist who, in today’s Gospel reading describes himself as ‘the voice in the wilderness’. In moments of disappointment, or gloom that come - and mercifully go - it seems to me that society at large is that wilderness. You wonder who’s listening to you whether you’re preaching in public or being published in periodicals. But it’s not listening to me that’s the concern, or indeed listening to anybody else for that matter. The concern is people’s level of attention to the Word of God. The vociferous ones who came to John the Baptist came to confront him, not to listen to him. Sent by those who pulled the strings, i.e. the Pharisees, they demanded that he give an account of himself. As followers of Jesus, we too must give an account of ourselves for we make some extraordinary claims; not least that the Creator of all that is would want to be born a human being, and could do no better than start life in a manger! Who in their right mind would want to listen to that!
Fr. Tom Cahill SVD

Annual Christmas Carol Service
The annual St. Patrick’s Parish Carol Service takes place on Sunday, 21st December at 3pm in St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown. For many this has become a must-attend event in the lead up to Christmas and all are welcome.
Practices: Sunday, 14th December at 3.15pm; Tuesday, 16th December at 7pm; Thursday, 17th December at 7pm in Foulkstown Church. All parish choirs and St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will participate.

Questions People Ask
Q. The parents of Mary were Joachim and Anne. Who were the parents of Joseph?
A. The names of Mary’s parents are not given in the Bible but come from Christian tradition. Matthew 1:16 lists Jacob as the father of Joseph, whereas Luke 3:23 calls Joseph the son of Heli. It is possible that Jacob and Heli were different names for the same person, something not unusual at the time. These genealogies were not compiled for reasons of historical accuracy. Matthew’s purpose was to trace Joseph back, through David, to Abraham. The universal scope of the Gospel of Luke prompted him to trace Jesus back to Adam. Neither written texts nor popular devotion tell the name of Joseph’s mother.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap.

Pray for our Deceased
Recently deceased: Eddie (Amy) O’Dwyer, California and late of Jacob Street. Evelyn Ryan, Dublin (Thurs 10.30), Therese & Geoff Brook, Threecastles.
Anniversaries: Dick Lynch (Sat 6.15), Julia O’Carroll (Sat 7.00), Michael Hynes (Sun 9.30), Angela Murphy (Sun 10.00), Laurence Healy (Sun 10.30), Joe & Nan Mulhall (Sun 11.00), Padraig “Podge” Butler (Sun 12.00), Kathleen Redpath (Sun 12.30), Margaret Quinlan (Wed 10.30), Patrick Morris (Thurs 9.30), Thomas Saunders (Fri 10.30), Stephen Fanning, Jimmy Bergin, James Hogan, Freda Tynan, James Murray, James Hoyne, Patrick “Darby” Malone, Sylvester Lacey, Eddie McEvoy, Margaret Doyle, Margaret Larkin, Ann Quinn, Laurence Quinn, Mary O’Neill.
Intentions for Next Weekend: Elizabeth Comerford (Sat 6.15), Tommie Tyrell (Sat 7.00), Florrie Cleere (Sun 9.30), Jane & Jeff Power (Sun 10.00), Christopher & Mary Cogan (Sun 10.30), George Byrne (Sun 11.00), John Glynn (Month’s Mind Sun 12.00), Mary Blanchfield (Sun 12.30).
May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.

Advent Scripture Reflection
Discover God in the nitty gritty of everyday life. Drop-in scripture reflection facilitated by Eileen Ross between 11am and 12 noon on Tuesday, 16th December at the Parish Centre, Loughboy (Following 10.30am Mass). Further information from Eileen at 087 296 4262. All welcome.

Aware Support Group
The Aware Support Group which meets every Monday at 8pm in St. Mary’s Centre, Haughney Green (behind Cineplex) Kilkenny will NOT be closing over the Christmas period. The group, which is totally confidential, is open to those who are experiencing depression. If you require any further information you can contact Mick on 087 94 98 100 or mick@awaresoutheast.com. The Aware Helpline is 1890 303 302.

St. Patrick’s Parish Centre
The Parish Centre will be available to rent to groups and organizations from the beginning of the New Year. Application forms and details of charges are available by contacting the Parish Office at 776 4400 or by calling in person to the Parish Office during opening hours. Tuesdays 9.00am - 12.30pm; Thursday 9.00am - 12.30pm, 2.00pm - 3.30pm and Friday 9.00am - 12.30pm, 2.00pm - 4.00pm.

St. Patrick's Parish Draw
This month’s Parish Draw will take place on Tuesday next, 16th December at 8.30pm in the Parish Centre. Thanks to our promoters and subscribers for their loyalty and support over the past number of years and we wish each of them and their families peace and joy
this Christmas season and New Year.

Christmas Concert
St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will hold their annual Christmas Concert in St. Patrick’s Church on Wednesday, 17th December at 8pm. Come along and join the band and guests for an evening of seasonal music.

Family Liturgy
The Family Liturgy continues on next Sunday at the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church. Those children who would like to participate are invited to a practice in St. Fiacre’s Church on Wednesday evening from 6 to 7pm. Extra adult volunteers are needed.

Irish Wheelchair Association
Bishop Séamus Freeman will be the principal celebrant at the annual IWA Christmas Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 3pm on Sunday, 14th December. All are welcome.

Divine Mercy
There will be an hour of adoration and prayer in honour of Divine Mercy in St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday, 14th December from 3 - 4pm. All are welcome.

Bag Pack
A fundraising bag pack for the parish will take place in Supervalu, Loughboy on Thursday, Friday & Saturday of this week. Some of our parishioners will pack your shopping to raise money towards the cost of our new Parish Centre. If you have a couple of hours to spare on any of the days and would like to help out, please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400. Many hands make light work!

Trócaire Global Gift Campaign
Kimpheuk Tahn has been looking after her two grandchildren for ten years, since her own daughter contracted HIV and died. Kimpheuk has struggled to feed her grandsons but with support from Trócaire Kimpheuk is now able to cope and is sending her boys to school. “I worry about my boys but now I make sure they go to school and get an education so they can look after themselves in the future.”
You can help grandmothers worldwide care for children orphaned by HIV/AIDS by buying one of Trócaire's Global Gifts this Christmas. Log onto www.trocaire.org/globalgift or Callsave 1850 408 408.

Kilkenny Bereavement Support
This is a voluntary organisation which offers a listening service to people of all ages who have been bereaved in recent times or in the past. This is a free and confidential service for people who are feeling the pain of loss and would like t meet someone in confidence who will support them on their journey of grief. To make an arrangement to meet with a volunteer, please telephone 056 775 6538.

Cookery Book
Good Food for Healthy Living - our parish cookery book - is available for sale at the Parish Office and sacristies. An ideal Christmas gift at only €10.

Kieran Goss in Concert
As part of his “I’ll Be Seeing You Tour” Kieran Goss will play the Watergate Theatre, on Friday, 20th February. Part-proceeds of the ticket sales is being donated to St. Patrick’s Parish Homes for the Elderly. Please purchase your tickets from the Parish Office (776 4400) and support our parish. Tickets for the concert cost €25 each and would make welcome Christmas presents.

Christmas Penitential Service
Our parish penitential service will be held at St. Patrick’s Church on Monday, 22nd December from 7.30pm. All welcome.

Society of St. Vincent De Paul
In this time of recession we ask that you be as generous as possible to this parish charity which is taking up its annual Christmas collection this weekend. For many people Christmas is a time of major drain on limited resources and every cent contributed to the society will be used to help people in need in our locality. Please be generous.
The local conference may be contacted at the Parish Centre in Loughboy at 8pm on Mondays and at Parish Office at other times.

Ossory Vocations Team
The One who calls you is faithful
Will you be faithful to his call? God may be inviting you to be a priest, deacon or consecrated religious.

Protest
A number of Kilkenny citizens and others, concerned about the presence of a lap dancing club opposite Kilkenny’s Watergate Theatre, have been protesting outside the club since January. Kilkenny people are invited to join in this protest to keep our City free from such activity. Please come along on Friday or Saturday evenings from 9pm and protect Kilkenny.

Kilkenny Gospel Choir
Will hold a service for those whose lives have been touched by cancer at St. Fiacre’s Church at 7.30pm on Wednesday, 17th December.

2nd Sunday of Advent, 7th December 2008

Pulling a Fast One
Today’s Second Reading reminds me of the tale of Ted. Ted thought he’d pull a fast one on God. So he prayed: ‘Heavenly Father, for you a million years is but a minute and a million Euro but one cent. Please hear me as I ask you for just one cent.’ God heard, and said: ‘Sure, Ted. Just a minute!’ The moral of the story is that we should know what to expect from God. Our First Reading tells us what that is: tenderness. Let that sink in. God gives us affection. Since it’s not possible for us to be on a par with God, God puts himself on a par with us: God becomes man. That’s the God who comes at Christmas. But do we want to meet God? Can we tolerate a tender God? If we stamp others as our ‘enemy’, can we hear God’s tender voice – especially when it’s directed at those ‘enemies’? If my enemy’s enemy is indeed my friend, is his friend then my enemy? How can we call God ‘friend’ while calling God’s friend ‘enemy’? Advent is a time for thinking things through, for seeing the implications of Jesus’ birth. He came to give life in all its fullness to humanity in all its numbers regardless of who they are or where they come from. That’s a message you won’t see posted in shop windows in the run-up to Christmas. You won’t hear it shouted from housetops. You won’t hear it anywhere except in God’s subversive, yet creative, word.
Fr Tom Cahill SVD

Advent Reflection
Discover God in the nitty gritty of everyday life. Drop-in scripture reflection facilitated by Eileen Ross after Mass, 11.00am to 12 noon, at the Parish Centre, Loughboy on 10th & 17th December. All welcome.

Evening Mass
As and from Monday, 1st December 2008 there will be an Evening Mass at 6.15p.m. in St. Mary’s Cathedral from Monday to Friday. This will be the only public Evening Mass in Kilkenny City.

Questions People Ask
Q. What is the Jesse tree and its relationship to Advent?
A. Jesse was the father of King David. The Jesse tree refers to the line of Jesus’ human ancestors. ‘A shoot shall spring forth from the stump of Jesse, and a branch out of its shoots’ (Isaiah 11:1). In Advent, as we prepare for the coming of Jesus, a tree, or a banner representing a tree, may be erected. Each day, or once a week, something is attached to recall a person or event from the time before Christ. In the Middle Ages it was a popular way of teaching Old Testament history. It is much closer to the real meaning of Christmas than the popular Christmas tree.
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Mary Shelly, 11 Lower Newpark. Funeral prayers in Johnston’s Funeral Home at 6pm on Sunday followed by removal to St. John’s Church. Requiem Mass at 12 noon Mass on Monday followed by burial at St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Teresa Fogarty, late of Archer’s Court & Castlecomer. Peg Wemyss, 20 Fr. Murphy Square. Mary Jacob (nee O’Toole), Dean Street, Larchfield & New Ross. Alice Langton, Lavistown.
Anniversaries: Michael Fitzmaurice (Sat 6.15), Phyllis Doran (Sat 7.00), Kathleen Browne (Sun 10.00), Patricia Fitzpatrick (Sun 10.30), Eddie Slattery (Sun 11.00), Michael Dwyer (Sun 12.00), Margaret O’Brien (Sun 12.30), Tom O’Dowd (Sun 6.15), Myra Treacy (Mon 10.00), Joe Emery, Syl Gaffney, Hugh Tiernan, John Egan, Sean Ryan, Kitty Ryan, Annie Wall, Christy Galvin, Johanna Malone, Bertie Murray, Moll Ryan, Peg Ryan, Nancy Jones, Kit Jones, Bridget Morrissey, Margaret Doyle, Philip O’Dwyer.
Intentions for next weekend: Dick Lynch (Sat 6.15), Julia O’Carroll (Sat 7.00), Michael Hynes (Sun 9.30), Angela Murphy (Sun 10.00), Laurence Healy (Sun 10.30), Joe & Nan Mulhall (Sun 11.00), Padraig “Podge” Butler (Sun 12.00), Kathleen Redpath (Sun 12.30).

Society of St. Vincent De Paul
The annual Christmas collection for the local conference of the Society of St. Vincent De Paul will be taken up at the church doors at all parish Masses next weekend. In this time of recession we ask that you be as generous as possible to this parish charity. The local conference is made up of volunteers who endeavour to help parishioners in time of need. Needless to say, for many people Christmas is a time of major drain on limited resources and every cent contributed to the society will be used to help people in need in our locality. Please plan to bring a little extra cash with you to Mass next weekend and help those in need.
The St. Patrick’s conference meets at the Parish Centre in Loughboy at 8pm on Mondays. Members may be contacted through the Parish Office at other times.

The Parish Office
The Parish Office has moved to the new Parish Centre in Loughboy. Access to the centre is through the main entrance adjacent to the Botharnatounish Road. With the re-location of the office we ask people not to leave anniversary announcements, envelopes or notices of any kind into the former presbytery on Ormonde Road.
The Parish Office is open from 9am until 12.30pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and from 2pm to 4pm on Thursdays and Fridays. All sacramental records, bookings for weddings, baptisms etc can be made through the Parish Office.
Our parish telephone numbers remain the same and we now have an itemised menu for more efficient access.
We are grateful for your co-operation and patience in our transition to new premises.

Ossory Vocation Team
“He will feed his flock like a shepherd.”
If God may be calling you to nourish His people as a priest, deacon or in the consecrated life, talk to your priest or the diocesan vocations team.

Kieran Goss in Concert
As part of his “I’ll Be Seeing You Tour” Kieran Goss will play the Watergate Theatre, on Friday, 20th February. Part-proceeds of the ticket sales is being donated to St. Patrick’s Parish Homes for the Elderly. Please purchase your tickets from the Parish Office (776 4400) and support our parish. Tickets for the concert cost €25 each and would make welcome Christmas presents.

S.O.S. Craft Sale
S.O.S., Callan Road, Kilkenny will hold a Craft Fair and Coffee Afternoon on this Sunday, 7th December from 2pm to 5pm. Everyone is welcome. Come and visit Santa Clause and have your photograph taken. (S.O.S. - Special Occupational Scheme provides accommodation and employment for people with special needs in our community.)

Village Crafts
Christmas Exhibition and Sale at Ormonde College on Sunday, 7th December. Featuring: Mick Morrissey, Canice Ryan and Ciaran Walsh (Woodturners) and Pat Holland (Artist)

Bumper Christmas Craft Fair
A Christmas Craft Fair in aid of the Street Children of Nairobi Hospital Fund will take place in Butler House, Patrick Street, on this Sunday from 10am to 6pm. Local craft makers are taking part.

Irish Wheelchair Association
Bishop Séamus Freeman will be the principal celebrant at the annual IWA Christmas Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 3pm on Sunday, 14th December. All are welcome.

Cead Mile Failte
We look forward to warmly welcoming the staff and service users of the S.O.S., Callan Road to our 10am feast day Mass at Foulkstown on Monday. All welcome.

Children’s Liturgy
The children’s liturgy starts once again next Sunday at the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church. Those Children who would like to participate are invited to a practice in St. Fiacre’s Church on Wednesday evening from 6 to 7pm.

The Immaculate Conception
Monday is the feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We celebrate Mary who from the first instant of her existence in the womb of her mother Anne was preserved free from all stain of original sin.” Parish Masses follow the usual weekend pattern.

Monthly Rosary
The monthly rosary on the first Sunday in James Green at the statue of Our Lady continues this Sunday 7th December at 3pm.

Candlelight Rosary Procession
The Annual Rosary Procession leaves the Parade at 8pm on Monday, 8th December going to the Black Abbey for Benediction.

Pat’s Cabaret
In aid of a worthy charity takes place at Delaney’s Bar, Patrick Street on Monday, 8th December at 9pm. Music by Johnny Hillman and Sean Shortis & Guest Artists. Door Prizes & Spots.

St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place in the Parish Centre on Friday, 12th December after the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church. Access through the church or through the main parish centre entrance.

Annual Christmas Carol Service
The annual St. Patrick’s Parish Carol Service takes place on Sunday, 21st December at 3pm in St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown.
Practices are as follows: Sunday, 14th December 3.15pm; Tuesday, 16th December at 7pm; Thursday, 17th December at 7pm in Foulkstown Church. All parish choirs and the St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will take part in the Carol Service.

Parent and Toddler Groups
Fr. McGrath Family Resource Centre (Mondays); O’Loughlin Court Community Centre (Wednesdays); Newpark Close Family Resource Centre (Thursdays). From 10.30am - 12.30pm. Please contact Mailyn, Parent and Toddler Facilitator, with Newpark Family Resource Centre on 087 753 8484 or 056 772 3309.

Cookery Book
Good Food for Healthy Living - our parish cookery book - is available for sale at the Parish Office and sacristies. €10.

Parish Website
www.patricksparish.com

1st Sunday of Advent, 30th November 2008

Advent—Time of Preparation
We begin the Season of Advent this weekend. The word Advent is from the Latin adventus for “coming” and is associated with the four weeks of preparation for Christmas. Advent always contains four Sundays, beginning on the Sunday nearest the feast of St. Andrew the Apostle and continuing until 24th December. It blends together a penitential spirit, very similar to Lent, a liturgical theme of preparation for the Second and Final Coming of the Lord, called the Parousia, and a joyful theme of getting ready for the Bethlehem event.
Since the 900s Advent has been considered the beginning of the Church year. This does not mean that Advent is the most important time of the year. Easter has always had this honour.
The traditional colour of Advent is purple or violet which symbolizes the penitential spirit. Religious traditions associated with Advent express all these themes.

Mayor of the Village
Congratulations to Liz Murray on becoming the Mayor of the Village. The Mayoral election raised €6,005 for the Homes for the Elderly at Loughboy.
Thanks to Liz Murray and Kevin O’Dwyer for allowing their names to go forward and to all who helped with their campaigns. A special word of thanks to the hard-working committee for a job well done.

Mini Marathon
Many thanks to those who participated in the recent Mini Marathon. All monies and cards have been returned and the total raised was €1,034.10 which will go towards the costs of the Homes for the Elderly in Loughboy. Thank you again to all who gave of their time and energy to raise money for this cause.

Trócaire
Trócaire is again running its Christmas gifts appeal, Global Gift. In keeping with the spirit of Christmas Trócaire offers a range of ethical Christmas gifts that people can buy to change the lives of vulnerable families and communities in the developing world. Since this appeal began eight years ago, over 535,000 Christmas gifts have been purchased to help the world’s poorest people. These Christmas gifts have helped parents feed their children, families to build a home and communities to work their way out of poverty. Contact www.trocaire.org/globalgift or 1850 408 408 for information.

Questions People Ask
Q. What did Jesus refer to when he told people to stay awake?
A. The Lord is reminding us never to forget our final judgement and destiny. How would you live, what would you do if you knew that you had only a short time to live? ‘Stay awake, because you never know when the time will come.’ Staying awake also means being vigilant against temptation by not allowing ourselves to be misled by the subtle lies of the devil. We are also exhorted to be alert and sensitive to the glory and goodness of God manifested in the world in many ways.

Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Westcourt News
Mass for the canonisation of Blessed Edmund Rice will be celebrated in Westcourt on Monday, 1st December at 7.30pm. The St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society is preparing the liturgy for this Mass. All welcome.

St Patrick's Brass & Reed Band
St. Patrick's Brass and Reed Band will play sacred music at the 12 noon Mass celebrated by Bishop Laurence Forristal in Capuchin Friary, Kilkenny on this Sunday, 30th November. All members of the public are welcome to attend.

4-2-1 Parish Drugs Initiative
The 4-2-1 Parish Drugs Training Initiative will continue at St. John of God School on Monday evening between 7.30 and 9.30pm.

Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Maureen Cleere, Emmet Street. Requiem Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral at 11am on Sunday. Mary O’Shea, William Street. Therese Brooke (nee Walsh), Dorset, England and Threecastles.
Anniversaries: Lily Spears (Sat 6.15); Pat Kearney (Sat 7.00); Michael Hickey (Sun 11.00); Thomas Dowling (Sun 12.00); Jeremiah Mullally (Mon 9.30); Elaine Kelly (Thurs 10.30); Ann Fogarty (Fri 10.30); Catherine Bambrick; Ollie Bergin; Eileen Barry; Margaret Guilfoyle; Thomas & Margaret Beehan; James Donnelly Snr; James Donnelly Jr; Sean Donnelly; Dollie & Pearse Butler; Joe McKane.
Intentions of next weekend: Michael Fitzmaurice (Sat 6.15), Phyllis Doran (Sat 7.00), Kathleen Browne (Sun 10.00), Patricia Fitzpatrick (Sun 10.30), Eddie Slattery (Sun 11.00), Michael Dwyer (Sun 12.00), John Carroll, (Sun, 11.30am, Church of the Assumption Paulstown); Tom O’Dowd (Sun 6.15), Myra Treacy (Mon 10.00), Margaret Doyle.

Meals on Wheels
Voluntary drivers are urgently needed for our “Meals on Wheels” service. If you are a car owner and could spare one hour per week - we would like to hear from you. Our meals need wheels for this much needed service for those in our care and the elderly who are housebound. Contact Kitty/Kay at 772 1685.

L’Arche Christmas Fair
The Fair takes place Sunday, 7th December in L’Arche Workshop Callan from 11.30 - 5pm. Christmas Shop will also be opened from Tuesday 9th December till Friday, 19th December 9am - 4pm.

Village Crafts
Christmas Exhibition and Sale at Ormonde College on Saturday and Sunday, 6th and 7th December. Featuring: Mick Morrissey, Canice Ryan and Ciaran Walsh (Woodturners) and Pat Holland (Artist)

Weekday Evening Mass in the City
Because of declining numbers and with great regret the Capuchin Order has ended its provision of weekday evening Mass in Kilkenny City. In its place Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Cathedral at 6.15pm on Monday to Friday evenings with the exception of bank holidays and eves of holydays. This Mass will be celebrated in turn by the secular clergy.

Youth Celebration
We welcome the young people who gather at St. Patrick’s Church for 12.30pm Mass on this Sunday. The liturgy has been prepared by some youth and, in as far as possible, the young people will get involved in readings, prayer, singing, mime and witnessing. Thanks to all those involved.

Rosary Procession
The Annual Candlelight Rosary Procession will leave the Parade at 8pm on Monday, 8th December and proceed to the Black Abbey for Benediction.

Ossory Vocations Team
“Father, we are the work of Your hands.”
Is God’s work in you to be of service to Him as a priest, deacon or in the consecrated life? Talk to your priest or a member of the Ossory Vocations Team.

Christmas Youth 2000 Retreat
A national Youth 2000 Christmas retreat for young people aged 16-35 takes place at Newbridge College, Newbridge, Co. Kildare from Friday, 19th to Sunday, 21st December. An opportunity not to be missed to experience the Catholic faith and meet many new friends! Contact Youth 2000 office 01 675 3690 or Mark 086 855 0417. No charge: donation only. www.youth2000.ie

First Friday
The priests will visit the housebound at the usual times on this Friday. Contact the Parish Office if you would like to be included.

James Stephens GAA News
Hard luck to the senior footballers on last Sunday’s defeat in the Leinster Football Championship's Semi-final. Well done on a great campaign.
A special celebration night will be held at the club on Tuesday, 4th December to honour club members who featured on winning county senior, intermediate, U-21 and camogie teams this season.

We have moved...
The Parish Office is now at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Botharnatounish Road, Loughboy. Telephone numbers and email address remain the same.

Christmas Craft Fair
In Butler House, Patrick Street on 6th and 7th December. 10am—6pm. In aid of Save the African Slum Children Charity.

Knock Marriage Introductions Bureau
For information contact the Bureau at Knock, Co. Mayo. Phone 094 937 5960 or www.knockmarriagebureau.com

Present Perfect
We need Advent to teach us patience. It can teach us more than that, of course. However, with our busy lifestyles we need to relearn how to be patient with, rather than how to put up with, rather than how to put up with, something or someone. That busyness results in us wishing our life away. We become edgy and tense with the present and slide easily into the future – be it only into the hour ahead of us. We develop the ‘when I...’ mentality: when-I-get-home, when the weekend arrives, when the summer is here when I get my new car, when I...when I ... when I. The future seems to hold the carrot; the present the stick. And as we lose touch with the present, we lose touch with ourselves.
And how easy that is. During the summer I saw a pub advertising a fancy dress Christmas bash for the middle of July. For many years now venues for Christmas parties have to be booked months in advance. And it’s no surprise anymore to hear and see promotions for summer holiday deals the day after Christmas. We are being programmed to live in the future as if the present doesn’t count. More and more life’s rhythms are set by the world of nature.
Advent slows us down. It alerts us to prepare for Christmas, not to start celebrating it. Our Gospel today (Mark 13: 33-37) alerts to something else: the Lord’s return. That alertness is for now, for we can meet the Lord at any tome.

Fr. Tom Cahill

Lectio Divina
Free! Beautifully produced Lectio Divina bookmarks from Youth 2000 - offered free at the back of the Church. Choice of 6 designs each with Sunday Gospel ref for 2009, synopsis of Lectio Divina and special Church dates. For more information on the work of Youth 2000 see www.youth2000.ie or contact national office on 07 6753690.

Christ the King, 23rd November 2008

Freedom of the City of Kilkenny
All in St. Patrick’s Parish join in congratulation Mr. Séamus Pattison and Mr. Brian Cody on being conferred with the Freedom of Kilkenny City. Both men are members of our parish and are very involved in local community activities. They are highly deserving of their awards and the parish is proud of their wonderful achievements. Well done and congratulations to both men and their families.

Mayor of the Village
Séamus Pattison and Brian Cody may be conferred with the Freedom of Kilkenny City this weekend but come Monday night we will have a new Mayor of the Village. This prestigious and well-earned accolade will be conferred at a special Grand Final Event at a Larchfield Venue at 9pm on Monday, 24th November. Music by the O’Dwyer/Dorney Band. Admission is only €5. Spot prizes and raffle on the night. The new Mayor of the Village will be enrobed during the evening.
This celebration is part of a fundraising event for the sheltered housing project adjacent to St. Fiacre’s Church. Thanks to all who have supported the event in any way. We appeal to all to come along on Monday evening and enjoy a really good time with others from our parish community.

Do This in Memory
On this Sunday we welcome next year’s First Holy Communion Classes and their families to Masses in the parish. The pupils from St. John of God Girls’ School and the St. Patrick’s De La Salle Boys’ School will gather at 11am Mass at St. Patrick’s Church while those from Gaelscoil Osrai and Kilkenny School Project will attend the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church. Do This in Memory is a monthly programme which supports the parents and teachers in preparing the children for First Eucharist. As a worshipping community we prepare to welcome the children to full participation in the Eucharist for the first time.

That New Year’s Resolution
The end is nigh – liturgically that is – as we celebrate the feast of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Universal King. Nothing like going out on a triumphal note! However, lest we fly off in a flurry of fervour, let us listen to what that Universal King says to us today. In the Gospel he tells us that some of us are blessed and some are accursed. The blessed are those of us who care for the least among us, and those who give food to the hungry and drink to the thirsty; those who welcome the stranger and clothe the naked, those who care for the sick and visit prisoners. The accursed are those of us who do none of this. Now that is not what you’d expect to hear a universal king say. In fact you wouldn’t expect him even to be aware of the lowly and the least. But therein lies the greatness of his kingdom: his concern for the weakest. When we pray The Lord’s Prayer we say, ‘may your kingdom come’. We want God’s kingdom to establish itself universally as soon as possible. I wonder do we realize that we have a say in that happening. Though the time for its glorious coming is set and known by the Father alone, God’s determining of that time just may be influenced by the quality of care that we give to the weakest among us. No need to wait for January to make a New Year’s resolution to give that care!

(Fr. Tom Cahill SVD)

Recently Bereaved?
Kilkenny Bereavement Support is a voluntary organisation which offers a listening service to people of all ages who have been bereaved in recent times or in the past. This is a free and confidential service for people who are feeling the pain of loss and would like to meet someone in confidence who will support them on their journey of grief. To make an arrangement to meet with a volunteer, please phone 056 775 6538.

Peace in Christ Retreat House
We appreciate all who helped with our recent church collection. €1,138 was raised in St. Patrick’s Parish. Thank you.

Quarant’ Ore
The 40 Hours Devotion, or Quarant’ Ore in Latin, was introduced into Rome by St. Philip Neri in 1548. It is the collective adoration of the exposed Eucharist for a period of 40 hours, in honour of the time Our Lord spent in the tomb.
The practice continues at St. Mary’s Cathedral this weekend and those who gather will pray for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and religious life in the Diocese of Ossory. The exercise will end with Solemn Benediction following 11am Mass at the cathedral on Sunday. All welcome to stay a while and pray.

Pray for the Deceased
Anniversaries: Maura Leahy (Sat 6.15), Patrick Murphy (Sat 7.00), Paul O’Dwyer (Sun 9.30), Bill Keogh (Sun 10.00), May Muldowney (Sun 10.30), Margaret (Madge) O’Brien (Sun 11.00), John Hand (Sun 12.00), Henrietta Hyland (Sun 12.30), Cathy McKenna (Fri 9.30), Molly Byrne (Fri 12.30), John McCarthy, Joan Hogan, Michael Gibbons, Thomas & Owen Beehan, Michael Beale, James, Mary & John Conway, Rory McPhillips, Peter Blanchfield.
Intentions for next weekend: Lily Spears (Sat 6.15), Pat Kearney (Sat 7.00), Michael Hickey (Sun 11.00), Thomas Dowling (Sun 12.00).

Remembrance Service
Don’t forget to join the members of our parish community as we gather at St. Patrick’s Church at 7.30pm on next Thursday to remember and pray for those who have died. Special prayers will be included for those who died during the past year.

Faith Formation Talk
The Kilkenny Council of the Knights of St. Columbanus is hosting a talk by Fr. Christopher Fox MHM entitled “Living and Passing on the Faith in Modern Ireland – the Challenge” on Thursday, 27th November at 7.45pm for 8pm at Villa Maria, Freshford Road, Kilkenny. All welcome.

Celebration of Faith for Youth
Next weekend the youth of the Diocese of Ossory will unite in sharing their faith. Young people from Glenmore to Seir Kieran will rejoice in their Christian belief and celebrate it in different ways.
The young people of our parish will be joined by their peers from Danesfort Parish to celebrate with an event during the 12.30pm Mass at St. Patrick’s Church on next Sunday. All are welcome to join in the celebration.
This event is in response to the wishes of young people as expressed in a recent diocesan survey: you talked the talk, now walk the walk! We are still in need of a few more people to help plan and organise matters on the day. Please consider putting yourself forward and bring a friend. Call Michelle at the Presbytery (776 4400) for information. Michelle may also be contacted in the sacristy after 12.30pm Mass at St. Patrick’s Church.

Homes for the Elderly
The Supervising Committee invites applications from those who are interested in acquiring accommodation in the new homes at St. Fiacre’s Church. The development is grant aided and statutory guidelines will apply in the allocation of the houses. Those interested should provide written details of name, current address and relevant contact details to the Presbytery before Tuesday. (Those who put their names down earlier need not re-apply as your details are on file).

November Parish Draw
The November drawing of prizes will take place at 8.30 at St. Fiacre’s Sacristy, Loughboy on this Tuesday evening. Tickets and contributions should be returned to Ted Byrne beforehand. Good luck to all!

Public Meeting
On education cutbacks on Wednesday, 26th November at 8pm in Newpark Hotel. Be your child’s voice. Guest Speaker: Declan Kelleher INTO President.

Questions People Ask
Q. If God is all-merciful, how can there be a hell of eternal damnation? It is time we got rid of this teaching designed to keep people in terror and subjection.
A. Nobody has the right to dispense with the teaching of Jesus. He spoke of a final judgement where those who live lives of love are called to an eternal reward in God’s kingdom while others are told that they have departed from God by the unloving way they lived.
People condemn themselves by wilful rejection of God and the ideals of love. If we accept free will then we must also accept the possibility of rejecting God. The doctrine of hell reflects both the holiness of God. The doctrine reflects both the holiness of God and the responsibilities that belong to freedom.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Fr. McGrath Centre
Free Christmas Dinner on 12th December for Men (over 60) or living alone. Names to be in no later than 8th December.
Parent and Toddler Group every Monday morning at 11.00 - Free. Volunteer Tutors required for 1 hour any afternoon Monday - Thursday to support children with their homework. Call 775 1988 for details.

4-2-1 Parish Drugs Initiative
The 4-2-1 Parish Drugs Training Initiative will continue at St. John of God School on Monday evening between 7.30 and 9.30pm.

Your Vocation?
The Ossory Vocations’ Discernment Group offers an opportunity to share time in prayer, reflection, sharing, chat and refreshments in St. Mary’s Cathedral Centre, James Street between 10.30am and 12.30am on the first Saturday of each month. All welcome.

Go Local! Week
The Irish Farmers’ Association has asked us to distribute leaflets publicising their “Go local! Week”, 23rd - 29th November. See posters and leaflets in church or visit www.ifacountryside.ie for more information.

Exercise Class
An exercise class specifically designed for mums has been organised by Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership and is now available at the Ormonde Leisure Club on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11am. Contact 772 0870 for more details.

Best of Luck
Best wishes to James Stephens Senior Footballers in the Leinster Football Semi- Final at Larchfield at 2.00pm on Sunday. The local club take on St.Ultans (Meath) in their quest for a place in the Leinster Final.

Season of Advent
Next Sunday is the First Sunday of Advent. Liturgical Year B begins next Sunday.