'T'is for Tolerance
Believe it or not, Sesame Street has been around for 41 years. The ground-breaking children’s TV show is renowned for tackling controversial issues as diverse as disability, self image, different types of families, bereavement, and racial tolerance. So much so that other countries have begun to produce their own versions of the programme, complete with characters addressing local culture and concerns. The South African version of the show recently introduced its first HIV positive character, Kami, whose name means ‘acceptance’. The French version features wheelchair-bound Griotte, the Hebrew incarnation gives us Arab-Israeli Muslim character Mahboub, while closer to home the Northern Irish version features characters engaging in activities from both sides of the cultural divide, such as Gaelic games and drumming in an Orange march. For a programme aimed at pre-schoolers, it really does push boundaries.
Jesus knew all about pushing boundaries and transcending cultural stereotypes. His encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well broke all sorts of religious and social taboos. And because he approached her with such sensitivity and acceptance, she found herself being completely honest with him. Overcome with the need to spread the word, she was so moved she left her water jar behind and hurried to tell others of her experience. This woman, shunned by others, ended up becoming an important witness to who Jesus was. A little understanding goes a long way – a simple gesture can lead to great things.
Triona Doherty
Pastoral Letters Still Available
Copies of recent Pastoral Letters are available at all churches in our parish. Bishop Séamus Freeman issued Renewal in the Springtime as a Lenten Pastoral to the people of the diocese. Towards Healing and Renewal is the title of the pastoral issued by the college of Irish Catholic Bishops.
Questions People Ask
Q. Years ago, during a retreat, I heard you explain how the Samaritan woman’s story represented the history of her race. Could you please refresh my memory.
A. The Samaritans were the survivors of the northern tribes who broke away from Judah (Jews) because of excessive taxation for the temple and the king. Their territory was taken over by the Assyrians who planted the land with five pagan tribes, each with their own religious worship. Elements of these religions eventually got absorbed into the Israelite religion, leaving the Samaritans with a seriously compromised faith. The Samaritan woman represented the five pagan religions by her five failed marriages, while her present cohabitation did not deserve the name of marriage, just as the pick-and-mix religion of her race did not deserve the name of worship.
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Thomas Hayes, 93 Robertshill. Eamonn Hennessy, Glendine, Kilkenny. James Curran, Pococke Lower.
Months Mind: Ursula Maher (Sun 12.30)
Anniversaries: Paddy Tomney (Sat 6.15), Oliver Kelly (Sat 7.00), Mary Lawlor (Sun 9.30), Margaret Dunne (Sun 11.00), Jane, Henry & Paddy Glynn (Sun 12.00), Mary Delaney (Thurs 9.30), Deceased Members of the Carers Association (Thurs 10.30), Michael Slattery (Fri 6.15), Edward & Mary Teresa McDonald, Eileen Quigley, Jack & Kitty Murphy, Mary, Bill & Martin Costello, Rose Kenny, Bridget Della Maher, Patrick Bourke, James & Mary Nugent, Billy Connick, Peg McEvoy, Helen Quill, Paddy Slattery, Peter & Jimmy Browne.
Intentions for Next Weekend: Michael O’Sullivan (Sat 6.15), William (Billy) Brennan (Sat 7.00), Denis Kavanagh (Sun 10.30), Dr WJ Phelan, Margaret Phelan & Moya Bligh (Sun 11.00), Charlie Blackmore (Sun 12.00), Bridget Lawlor (Sun 12.30).
May they rest in peace. Amen.
Foulkstown Cemetery
Following a fire in the waste disposal area of the cemetery on last Monday, we appeal to parishioners to keep a watchful eye for any suspicious activity taking place in the cemetery. In particular, if you notice anyone setting fires, dumping household or electrical waste or causing damage, take note of any car registration or, if known, any individual involved and inform the Parish Office or any of the priests who will pass on this information to the Environmental Enforcement Officers.
It is an offence to set fires in open or public places which carries a fine of €3,000 plus a court appearance for those convicted.
Foulkstown Cemetery waste facility is only for withered wreaths, flowers etc. taken from graves in the cemetery. It is not a facility for dumping household waste or other items. Please help the Cemetery Committee and parish maintain a clean, safe and respectable resting place for our loved ones.
Lenten Pilgrimage
Journey and Pilgrimage are special parts of our faith tradition. Ossory Adult Faith Development invites you to join in two pilgrimages:
This Sunday: A walk by the river Barrow from St. Mullins to Graiguenamanagh with Evening Prayer in the beautiful Duiske Abbey. Bus departing St Kieran’s College at 2.30pm on Sunday 27th March will take pilgrims to St. Mullins and later collect all in Graiguenamanagh before returning us to St Kieran’s by about 6.30/7.00pm. A nominal payment of €5 to help towards the cost of the bus is suggested but not necessary. Details on 086 609 7483.
Next Sunday: for all those in their 20s, 30s, 40s and above. Pilgrimage will take place on Slievenamon on Sunday 3rd April. Departing (2.30pm) from the Cross at the at the base of Slievenamon the group will walk to the summit taking the opportunity to reflect on the scenery and the world we look upon.
While booking is not essential intending pilgrims are asked to indicate interest by contacting Ossory Adult Faith Development 775 3624, email afd@ossory.ie or text 086 609 7483.
Searching for a Way Forward
Ossory Faith Development invite you to a talk entitled “The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light”: our search for that light today at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Thursday, 31st March at 8.00pm. Speaker is Fr. Dan Bollard, Thomastown. This talk, postponed because of the inclement weather in December, is one in a series dealing with issues facing our Church following the recently revealed abuse scandals. All are welcome.
First Saturday Devotion
Prayer and adoration will take place in St. Fiacre’s Church on Saturday 2nd April from 7.00 to 9.00pm. All welcome.
Evening of Reflection for Lent
Dean’s Gate (Opposite St. Canice’s Church) at 7.30p.m. on Wed. 30th March, led by Sister Antoinette Dilworth. All Welcome.
Launch of New CD
The Cullinane Family from North Kilkenny will launch the single from their forthcoming CD of Christian Music during a concert at St. Fiacre’s Church at 7.00pm on next Sunday, 3rd April. The members of the family have being playing Christian music together for many years now and already have a number of professional recordings to their credit. Their most recent CD, Faith and Family, had to be repressed because of demand and the proceeds were donated to Boystown Orphanage, Lviv.
At next Sunday’s launch the Cullinane Family will be supported by a number of local choirs, groups and artistes. Admission is €5 and proceeds to the IHCPT Lourdes Fund. Come and enjoy an excellent concert and support a good cause.
Children’s Liturgy Group
The Children’s Sunday 10.30am Mass continues during Lent. All children are welcome especially new comers! Practice will take place in St Fiacre’s Church on Wednesday next at around 6.40pm (after the 6.15pm Mass). Please come along.
Youth Retreat
A Youth retreat organised by Youth 2000 will take place from the 8th to the 10th April in Good Counsel College, New Ross. Cost is a donation only (bring your sleeping bag). James @ 085 735 1210 or Anne @ 086 850 1533.
Mass for The Carers’ Association
Mass will be offered for the deceased members of this association at St. Fiacre’s Church on Thursday at 10.30am. Refreshments afterwards.
Ceart
Is chronic illness part of your life? Have you, or a family member, experienced pain, tiredness, stress, loss of mobility, fear for the future, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, low self-confidence or isolation? A Self-Management course that helps you to deal with these symptoms and improve the quality of your daily life will take place on: Tuesdays April 12th , 19th , May 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, Time: 10.00am - 12.30pm. Venue: Citizens Information Centre, The Parade. The course costs €60 and includes a 380 page manual ‘Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions.’ For information contact Anne Cody 087 902 8534.
First Friday
The priests will visit the usual people on Friday. Contact 776 4400 to be included.
Bible Study
Bible course continues in the Parish Centre on Tuesdays. Time: 10.00am to 12.15pm.
Three Evenings of Prayer
Thomastown Parish Church at 7.30pm on:-
Tuesday, 5th April: ‘Christ Gathers Us’ led by Fr. Richard Scriven, Inistioge
Wednesday, 6th April: ‘Christ Gathers us to Listen to His Word’ led by Chris Kelly.
Thursday, 7th April: ‘Christ Calls us to Reconciliation’ led by Derek Dooley.
Weekly Envelope Collection
Last week’s envelope collection: €1,850.00.
Kilkenny Horticultural Society
Annual General Meeting in Club House Hotel on Wednesday, 30th March at 7.30pm. A Lecture on “General gardening and useful tips” will be given by P. Kealy. Plant sale, refreshments and raffle, free admission. All are welcome. Annual membership fee of €20 is due.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Second Sunday of Lent 20th March 2011
Response to Pope Benedict’s Letter to the People of Ireland
The first anniversary of the publication of the Pastoral Letter of Pope Benedict XVI to the Catholics of Ireland occurs on 19th March. To mark this event the Irish bishops wish to bring the following three important initiatives to the attention of the faithful: the publication of their pastoral response Towards Healing and Renewal; the new Catholic counselling and support service for survivors of abuse; and, the progress of listening and consultation exercises which have been taking place.
To mark this anniversary the bishops have published the pastoral response Towards Healing and Renewal. This outlines different undertakings that the bishops are making on the journey emphasised by the survivors of abuse. These steps include:
prayer for the survivors of abuse, including a commitment on the part of bishops to dedicate each First Friday to prayer and fasting in reparation for abuse and the failure to address it adequately;
a commitment to listening with sensitivity and care to the experiences of those who suffered abuse;
spiritual support to survivors of abuse who wish to avail themselves of it, including the opportunity for spiritual direction;
an ongoing commitment to creating a safer future for children in the Church in accordance with Safeguarding Children;
a review of Dioceses, Religious Congregations and Societies by the National Board for Safeguarding Children; and
ongoing financial support for the work of safeguarding and care.
Towards Healing and Renewal also includes ways in which parish communities can play their part in assisting the process of healing for survivors of abuse.
In February 2011 bishops, the Conference of Religious of Ireland and the Irish Missionary Union launched a new Catholic counselling and support service. This counselling service, which continues the important work of Faoiseamh, supports survivors of abuse in a professional and caring environment by providing a wide range of services, including Helpline and face-to-face Counselling. Healing Meetings, Group Work, Practical Workshops and a Social Worker/Bridging service designed to link survivors of abuse to other services relevant to their needs, such as the health, local authority, educational and social welfare services.
Over the last year, and prompted by Pope Benedict’s Pastoral Letter, listening and consultation exercises have been taking place in dioceses. These are continuing and are an important step on the journey of healing and renewal for the Church in Ireland.
Copies of the Bishops’ Pastoral are available in Church this weekend.
Questions People Ask
Q. The transfiguration was an occasion of great light, but what is the significance of the cloud? Was it to foretell the future suffering of Jesus?
A. You are on the right track in associating the cloud with the darkness of suffering. It was a bright cloud, showing that God was the light and voice behind that darkness. The people of the Exodus were led by a flame at night and a cloud by day. In the journey of faith we receive enough light to carry us through the dark times, but the cloud indicates that our limited human minds cannot fully grasp the gloriously bright reality of God. Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Bishop Freeman’s Pastoral Letter
Bishop Séamus Freeman has written a Pastoral Letter to the people of the Diocese of Ossory. Copies of the Letter are available at the doors of the church this weekend. Please take a copy to every household.
Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2011
The annual Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage to the shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes takes place from 22nd to 27th May 2011. Booking is now ongoing. Telephone Eleanor on 051 880 414 between 10.30am and 2.30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. This year’s fare is €720 which includes airport transfers.
Searching for a Way Forward
Our Church is sinful and broken – have we embraced this reality fully? What does this reality say about us? What impact does it, or should it have on us? Surely there must be hope but what is it? Why not join us for two evenings as we explore these and other questions. The evenings are presented by Ossory Adult Faith Development and were postponed because of the bad weather in December.
Deciding to Stay? Looking for a renewed vision of Church! Speaker: Ann Daly. St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Thursday, 24th March at 8.00pm.
“The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light”: our search for that light today. Speaker: Fr. Dan Bollard. St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Thursday, 31st March at 8.00pm. All are welcome.
Lenten Pilgrimage
Journey and Pilgrimage are special parts of our faith tradition. This Lent Ossory Adult Faith Development is offering two pilgrimages. We invite you to join us.
The first: for all members of Parish Pastoral Councils, those involved in parishes and anyone else who would like to join us for the afternoon, will take place as a walk by the river Barrow from St. Mullins to Graiguenamanagh with Evening Prayer in the beautiful Duiske Abbey. Departing St Kieran’s College at 2.30pm on Sunday 27th March a bus will take us to St. Mullins and later collect us in Graiguenamanagh before returning us to St Kieran’s by about 6.30/7.00pm. A nominal payment of €5 to help towards the cost of the bus is suggested but not necessary.
The second: for all those in the 20s, 30s, 40s or above, will take place on Slievenamon on Sunday 3rd April. Departing (2.30pm) from the Cross at the at the base of Slievenamon the group will walk to the summit taking the opportunity to reflect on the scenery and the world we look upon.
Please indicate your interest by contacting Ossory Adult Faith Development 775 3624, email afd@ossory.ie or text 086 609 7483.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Tony McEvoy, Shellumsrath. Fr. Philip O’Brien, Hexham & Newcastle, Requiem Mass at 2.00pm on Sunday in Callan Parish Church. Judith Murphy, 30 Shandon Park. Fintan Dooley, Shinrone, Co Offaly. Nancy Jordan, Thurles. Margaret Fahey, England.
Months Mind: Philomena Somers (Sat 6.15)
Anniversaries: Chris Kenny (Sun 7.00), Kathleen Grace & Anastasia Fitzpatrick (Sun 9.30), Bridie Carroll (Sun 10.00), Pat Delahunty (Sun 10.30), Pat Mullins (Sun 11.00) Michael McInerney (Sun 12.00), Andy Henderson (Sun 12.30), Des Cullen (Fri 10.30), Billy Wallace (Sat 9.30), Johanna, Philip & John Larkin, Mary Hickey, Patrick Brennan, Padraig Costello, William Meehan, Lou McCarthy, Tommy Long, Michael & Mary Conway, Mary Hickey, Fintan Dooley, Patrick Brennan, Ted Cornally, Joan & Jim Shortall, Benny Grogan, Tom McGrath, Michael Drennan, Eamon O’Neill, Bessie Buckley, The Mulvin & Stafford Families, Tom Kehoe, Mai McCann.
Intentions for next weekend: Paddy Tomney (Sat 6.15), Oliver Kelly (Sat 7.00), Mary Lawler (Sun 9.30), Margaret Dunne (Sun 11.00), Jane, Henry & Paddy Glynn (Sun 12.00), Ursula Maher (Months Mind 12.30).
Lenten Masses
Don’t forget we have an extra Lenten Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 6.15pm on weekdays.
Trócaire Fast Boxes
Please take a Trócaire Box home with you today and remember the world’s poor this Lent. For more information visit www.trocaire.org/lent or call 1850 408 408.
Children’s Liturgy Group
The Children’s Sunday 10.30am Mass continues during Lent. All children are welcome especially new comers! Participation by parents will be required and we would particularly welcome new ideas, new songs, even new musicians! Practice will take place in St Fiacre’s Church on Wednesday next at around 6.40pm (after the 6.15pm Mass). Please come along.
Weekly Envelope Collection
Last week’s envelope collection: €1,832.00. The new envelope packs are being prepared for distribution at the moment. Please advise the parish office if you didn’t receive envelopes last year and would like to contribute. Thanks.
Lenten Stations
This collection towards the incomes of the priests and bishop is due to be taken up this weekend. Please use the envelope in your contribution pack or any envelope marked “Stations”. Thanks for your generous support.
Seniors’ Housing
A house has become vacant at St. Fiacre’s Gardens. Application forms at the Parish Office.
Loughboy Library
Free Chess Lessons for Teenagers will commence this Friday at 6.30pm.
Dublin writer Hugh Fitzgerald Ryan will meet with readers and writers at the library on Thursday at 2pm - all are welcome.
A new Traveller Culture Collection has been added to our stock - these lovely colourful storybooks are suited to children of all ages.
St. Vincent De Paul Collection
The monthly collection for the local conference of the Society of St. Vincent De Paul will be taken up at all Masses this weekend. Please support this worthy cause. Thank you.
Bible Study
Sr. De Lourdes Sheridan continues a bible study in the Parish Centre on Tuesdays. The theme is “Women in the Scriptures”. Time: 10.00am to 12.15pm including a cup of tea. Cost: €5.00. All are welcome.
Surviving your Adolescents
The Shane & Jim O’Neill Spring School continues next Tuesday, 22nd March at 8.00pm, with a presentation by Dr. Fergus Heffernan.
Adolescents don’t have to drive you crazy, Living with a teenage is no picnic. There are times when you must bite your tongue as they push towards independence or if you sense there is trouble - there are times when you must take charges. The evening will give you a step by step approach that will help end the hassles and offer concrete solutions. Village Business Centre, Patrick Street. Booking 087 927 7479 (essential). Cost €10.
Seize the Moment
‘Thanks for coming’. ‘Thanks for having me’. ‘It’s great to see you’. ‘Welcome home’. Life is full of little opportunities to acknowledge the importance of the presence of other people. Moments like these cause us to pause and do something that can be a rare occurrence in our busy lives – appreciate others at the very time we are in their presence. Often we appreciate the presence of others most when we haven’t had ‘quality’ or ‘one-on-one’ time with them for a while. When Jesus brings Peter, James and John up the mountain, Peter realises that he is in the midst of a great moment. Not only are these three ‘inner circle’ disciples getting some alone time with their friend and teacher, but all the signs point to a greater presence in Jesus – his face shines like the sun, his clothes become brilliant white, Moses and Elijah appear. Overcome with the enormity of the occasion, Peter exclaims ‘Lord, it is wonderful for us to be here’. Many belief systems, and happily also many writers on Christian spirituality, have emphasised the value of living in the present moment and being fully aware of it. Fr Ronald Ronheiser writes: ‘Too often we are not present to the beauty, love, and grace that brim within the ordinary moments of our lives… The secret to prayer is not to try to make God present, but to make ourselves present to God.’ Peter recognised the importance of this moment in the presence of God. How often can we say the same? Triona Doherty
Looking for a career in Elder/Child care?
FETAC Level 5 Courses running in March/April:
Care of the Older person
Occupational First Aid
Both modules will be held in Carlow from 10.00am to 4.00pm.
Contact 059 91 42208 or visit www.visiontraining.ie to book
Platform FETAC Training Programme
Are you in receipt of an Unemployment Payment? FREE PLACES on Platform FETAC Training programme in Career Development, IT and Communications begins on 14th March in Bagenalstown Family Resource Centre. For further details contact Aislinn at Vision Training 059 9142208.
The first anniversary of the publication of the Pastoral Letter of Pope Benedict XVI to the Catholics of Ireland occurs on 19th March. To mark this event the Irish bishops wish to bring the following three important initiatives to the attention of the faithful: the publication of their pastoral response Towards Healing and Renewal; the new Catholic counselling and support service for survivors of abuse; and, the progress of listening and consultation exercises which have been taking place.
To mark this anniversary the bishops have published the pastoral response Towards Healing and Renewal. This outlines different undertakings that the bishops are making on the journey emphasised by the survivors of abuse. These steps include:
prayer for the survivors of abuse, including a commitment on the part of bishops to dedicate each First Friday to prayer and fasting in reparation for abuse and the failure to address it adequately;
a commitment to listening with sensitivity and care to the experiences of those who suffered abuse;
spiritual support to survivors of abuse who wish to avail themselves of it, including the opportunity for spiritual direction;
an ongoing commitment to creating a safer future for children in the Church in accordance with Safeguarding Children;
a review of Dioceses, Religious Congregations and Societies by the National Board for Safeguarding Children; and
ongoing financial support for the work of safeguarding and care.
Towards Healing and Renewal also includes ways in which parish communities can play their part in assisting the process of healing for survivors of abuse.
In February 2011 bishops, the Conference of Religious of Ireland and the Irish Missionary Union launched a new Catholic counselling and support service. This counselling service, which continues the important work of Faoiseamh, supports survivors of abuse in a professional and caring environment by providing a wide range of services, including Helpline and face-to-face Counselling. Healing Meetings, Group Work, Practical Workshops and a Social Worker/Bridging service designed to link survivors of abuse to other services relevant to their needs, such as the health, local authority, educational and social welfare services.
Over the last year, and prompted by Pope Benedict’s Pastoral Letter, listening and consultation exercises have been taking place in dioceses. These are continuing and are an important step on the journey of healing and renewal for the Church in Ireland.
Copies of the Bishops’ Pastoral are available in Church this weekend.
Questions People Ask
Q. The transfiguration was an occasion of great light, but what is the significance of the cloud? Was it to foretell the future suffering of Jesus?
A. You are on the right track in associating the cloud with the darkness of suffering. It was a bright cloud, showing that God was the light and voice behind that darkness. The people of the Exodus were led by a flame at night and a cloud by day. In the journey of faith we receive enough light to carry us through the dark times, but the cloud indicates that our limited human minds cannot fully grasp the gloriously bright reality of God. Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Bishop Freeman’s Pastoral Letter
Bishop Séamus Freeman has written a Pastoral Letter to the people of the Diocese of Ossory. Copies of the Letter are available at the doors of the church this weekend. Please take a copy to every household.
Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2011
The annual Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage to the shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes takes place from 22nd to 27th May 2011. Booking is now ongoing. Telephone Eleanor on 051 880 414 between 10.30am and 2.30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. This year’s fare is €720 which includes airport transfers.
Searching for a Way Forward
Our Church is sinful and broken – have we embraced this reality fully? What does this reality say about us? What impact does it, or should it have on us? Surely there must be hope but what is it? Why not join us for two evenings as we explore these and other questions. The evenings are presented by Ossory Adult Faith Development and were postponed because of the bad weather in December.
Deciding to Stay? Looking for a renewed vision of Church! Speaker: Ann Daly. St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Thursday, 24th March at 8.00pm.
“The people who have walked in darkness have seen a great light”: our search for that light today. Speaker: Fr. Dan Bollard. St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Thursday, 31st March at 8.00pm. All are welcome.
Lenten Pilgrimage
Journey and Pilgrimage are special parts of our faith tradition. This Lent Ossory Adult Faith Development is offering two pilgrimages. We invite you to join us.
The first: for all members of Parish Pastoral Councils, those involved in parishes and anyone else who would like to join us for the afternoon, will take place as a walk by the river Barrow from St. Mullins to Graiguenamanagh with Evening Prayer in the beautiful Duiske Abbey. Departing St Kieran’s College at 2.30pm on Sunday 27th March a bus will take us to St. Mullins and later collect us in Graiguenamanagh before returning us to St Kieran’s by about 6.30/7.00pm. A nominal payment of €5 to help towards the cost of the bus is suggested but not necessary.
The second: for all those in the 20s, 30s, 40s or above, will take place on Slievenamon on Sunday 3rd April. Departing (2.30pm) from the Cross at the at the base of Slievenamon the group will walk to the summit taking the opportunity to reflect on the scenery and the world we look upon.
Please indicate your interest by contacting Ossory Adult Faith Development 775 3624, email afd@ossory.ie or text 086 609 7483.
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Tony McEvoy, Shellumsrath. Fr. Philip O’Brien, Hexham & Newcastle, Requiem Mass at 2.00pm on Sunday in Callan Parish Church. Judith Murphy, 30 Shandon Park. Fintan Dooley, Shinrone, Co Offaly. Nancy Jordan, Thurles. Margaret Fahey, England.
Months Mind: Philomena Somers (Sat 6.15)
Anniversaries: Chris Kenny (Sun 7.00), Kathleen Grace & Anastasia Fitzpatrick (Sun 9.30), Bridie Carroll (Sun 10.00), Pat Delahunty (Sun 10.30), Pat Mullins (Sun 11.00) Michael McInerney (Sun 12.00), Andy Henderson (Sun 12.30), Des Cullen (Fri 10.30), Billy Wallace (Sat 9.30), Johanna, Philip & John Larkin, Mary Hickey, Patrick Brennan, Padraig Costello, William Meehan, Lou McCarthy, Tommy Long, Michael & Mary Conway, Mary Hickey, Fintan Dooley, Patrick Brennan, Ted Cornally, Joan & Jim Shortall, Benny Grogan, Tom McGrath, Michael Drennan, Eamon O’Neill, Bessie Buckley, The Mulvin & Stafford Families, Tom Kehoe, Mai McCann.
Intentions for next weekend: Paddy Tomney (Sat 6.15), Oliver Kelly (Sat 7.00), Mary Lawler (Sun 9.30), Margaret Dunne (Sun 11.00), Jane, Henry & Paddy Glynn (Sun 12.00), Ursula Maher (Months Mind 12.30).
Lenten Masses
Don’t forget we have an extra Lenten Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 6.15pm on weekdays.
Trócaire Fast Boxes
Please take a Trócaire Box home with you today and remember the world’s poor this Lent. For more information visit www.trocaire.org/lent or call 1850 408 408.
Children’s Liturgy Group
The Children’s Sunday 10.30am Mass continues during Lent. All children are welcome especially new comers! Participation by parents will be required and we would particularly welcome new ideas, new songs, even new musicians! Practice will take place in St Fiacre’s Church on Wednesday next at around 6.40pm (after the 6.15pm Mass). Please come along.
Weekly Envelope Collection
Last week’s envelope collection: €1,832.00. The new envelope packs are being prepared for distribution at the moment. Please advise the parish office if you didn’t receive envelopes last year and would like to contribute. Thanks.
Lenten Stations
This collection towards the incomes of the priests and bishop is due to be taken up this weekend. Please use the envelope in your contribution pack or any envelope marked “Stations”. Thanks for your generous support.
Seniors’ Housing
A house has become vacant at St. Fiacre’s Gardens. Application forms at the Parish Office.
Loughboy Library
Free Chess Lessons for Teenagers will commence this Friday at 6.30pm.
Dublin writer Hugh Fitzgerald Ryan will meet with readers and writers at the library on Thursday at 2pm - all are welcome.
A new Traveller Culture Collection has been added to our stock - these lovely colourful storybooks are suited to children of all ages.
St. Vincent De Paul Collection
The monthly collection for the local conference of the Society of St. Vincent De Paul will be taken up at all Masses this weekend. Please support this worthy cause. Thank you.
Bible Study
Sr. De Lourdes Sheridan continues a bible study in the Parish Centre on Tuesdays. The theme is “Women in the Scriptures”. Time: 10.00am to 12.15pm including a cup of tea. Cost: €5.00. All are welcome.
Surviving your Adolescents
The Shane & Jim O’Neill Spring School continues next Tuesday, 22nd March at 8.00pm, with a presentation by Dr. Fergus Heffernan.
Adolescents don’t have to drive you crazy, Living with a teenage is no picnic. There are times when you must bite your tongue as they push towards independence or if you sense there is trouble - there are times when you must take charges. The evening will give you a step by step approach that will help end the hassles and offer concrete solutions. Village Business Centre, Patrick Street. Booking 087 927 7479 (essential). Cost €10.
Seize the Moment
‘Thanks for coming’. ‘Thanks for having me’. ‘It’s great to see you’. ‘Welcome home’. Life is full of little opportunities to acknowledge the importance of the presence of other people. Moments like these cause us to pause and do something that can be a rare occurrence in our busy lives – appreciate others at the very time we are in their presence. Often we appreciate the presence of others most when we haven’t had ‘quality’ or ‘one-on-one’ time with them for a while. When Jesus brings Peter, James and John up the mountain, Peter realises that he is in the midst of a great moment. Not only are these three ‘inner circle’ disciples getting some alone time with their friend and teacher, but all the signs point to a greater presence in Jesus – his face shines like the sun, his clothes become brilliant white, Moses and Elijah appear. Overcome with the enormity of the occasion, Peter exclaims ‘Lord, it is wonderful for us to be here’. Many belief systems, and happily also many writers on Christian spirituality, have emphasised the value of living in the present moment and being fully aware of it. Fr Ronald Ronheiser writes: ‘Too often we are not present to the beauty, love, and grace that brim within the ordinary moments of our lives… The secret to prayer is not to try to make God present, but to make ourselves present to God.’ Peter recognised the importance of this moment in the presence of God. How often can we say the same? Triona Doherty
Looking for a career in Elder/Child care?
FETAC Level 5 Courses running in March/April:
Care of the Older person
Occupational First Aid
Both modules will be held in Carlow from 10.00am to 4.00pm.
Contact 059 91 42208 or visit www.visiontraining.ie to book
Platform FETAC Training Programme
Are you in receipt of an Unemployment Payment? FREE PLACES on Platform FETAC Training programme in Career Development, IT and Communications begins on 14th March in Bagenalstown Family Resource Centre. For further details contact Aislinn at Vision Training 059 9142208.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
First Sunday of Lent, 13th March 2011
An Epic Battle
‘I can resist everything except temptation’: the often quoted words of Lord Darlington in Oscar Wilde’s play Lady Windermere’s Fan. Temptation is part of the human condition, a side effect of having free will. And as if to prove just how human Jesus was, the Gospel of Matthew sees him enticed with some very human temptations. It is a very human Jesus who fasts for 40 days and 40 nights, after which, naturally, ‘he was very hungry’. There is something quite dramatic about the encounter between Jesus and the devil in today’s Gospel. It has always made me imagine how the scene would play out on the big screen as part of a movie, as the ultimate epic battle between God and the devil, good and evil. There is the desperate hunger of Jesus after 40 days of fasting, the invitation to throw himself off the temple, the offer of unlimited power. Unusually for the Gospels, the devil himself appears as a character, with supporting roles from the angels who look after Jesus after the devil has left. The dialogue is sharp; it is a battle of wills, but also of wits, and we wonder who will win. But the devil is no match for Jesus. He refuses to entertain the suggestions, and is equipped both with the relevant passages from scripture and a sense of his own purpose to see off the devil’s advances. Like Jesus we are all tempted by easy pleasures and powers. Are we armed to ward off the temptations that come our way?
Triona Doherty
Cake Sale and Coffee Morning
Fr. Dan, and all associated with the Children’s Pilgrimage Trust, would like to thank all who helped make last weekend’s cake sale and coffee morning such a huge success. We say a sincere thanks to those who organised the event, those who baked and provided produce and donations and, of course, to all who purchased the cakes. The proceeds amounted to €2,478.00 and the money will be used to help send eleven children with special needs to Lourdes this Easter. Further information is available on www.irishpilgrimagetrust.com We will remember you in prayer at Lourdes.
The Season of Lent
This holy season of preparation for the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus at Easter continues. We are delighted with the number of people making use of the extra Lenten weekday Mass in our parish. All are welcome to join us at St. Fiacre’s Church on weekday evenings at 6.15pm. (However, note there will be no evening Mass on St. Patrick’s Day).
Parish “Evening of Prayer”
You are invited to join with your neighbours and friends from St. Patrick’s Parish for an evening of prayer on this Monday, 14th March at Peace in Christ Retreat House, Sion Road, Kilkenny. Time: 8.00pm - 10.30pm. Contact Retreat House on 772 1054, Rena on 776 2923 or Adeline on 772 1665. All welcome. Why not make this part of your Lenten programme.
Bible Study
Sr. De Lourdes Sheridan will hold a bible study in the Parish Centre starting on Tuesday 15th March and continuing for 6 weeks. The theme will be “Women in the Scriptures”. Time: 10.00am to 12.15pm including a cup of tea. Cost: €5.00 per session. All are welcome.
Invitation to Lenten Pilgrimage
Journey and pilgrimage are special parts of our faith tradition and this Lent Ossory Adult Faith Development is offering two pilgrimages.
The first, aimed at Parish Pastoral Councils, will act as an aid in encouraging people to reflect on their role within the parish and their serving on the Pastoral Council. This walk is by the River Barrow from St. Mullins to Graiguenamanagh with Evening Prayer in Duiske Abbey. Departing St Kieran's College by bus at 2.30pm on Sunday 27th March.
The second, aimed at people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, will be a chance to reflect on where we are going in life, our priorities and goals. This pilgrimage walk will be up Slievenamon on Sunday, 3rd April, departing from the Cross at the base of Slievenamon.
Those interested are asked to contact Ossory Adult Faith Development on 775 3624, email afd@ossory.ie or text 086 609 7483.
St. Patrick’s Day
This is the feast of our national and parish patron. Masses will follow the usual weekend schedule. The 11.00am Mass at St. Patrick’s Church will be bilingual.
Trócaire Fast Boxes
Please take a Trócaire Box home with you today and remember the world’s poor this Lent. For more information visit www.trocaire.org/lent or call 1850 408 408.
Children’s Liturgy Group
The Children’s Sunday 10.30am Mass will begin for Lent on Sunday 20th March. All children are welcome especially new comers! Participation by parents will be required and we would particularly welcome new ideas, new songs, even new musicians! Practice will take place in St Fiacre’s Church on Wednesday next at around 6.40pm (after the 6.15pm Mass).
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Jimmy Brennan, 6 Loughboy Park. Margaret Conway, Sligo. Francie Donnelly, Fatima Place. Fr. Phil O'Brien Hexam & Newcastle Diocese and late of Kells, Co. Kilkenny
Months Mind: Kathleen Maher (Sun 10.30)
Anniversaries: Eamon O’Toole (Sat 6.15), Vincent Morrissey (Sat 7.00), Ciss Lafferty (Sun 9.30), Margaret McGrath (Sun 10.00), Mary & Michael Brannigan (Sun 11.00), John Dooley (Sun 12.00), Lizzy Ryan (Sun 12.30), Tom Manogue (Wed 9.30), Brigid Eardly (Thur 10.00), Gerry & Mary Coyne (Thur 12.00), Paddy Larkin, Eamon Muldowney, John Tynan.
Intentions for next weekend: Philomena Somers (Months Mind Sat 6.15), Chris Kenny (Sun 7.00), Kathleen Grace & Anastasia Fitzpatrick (Sun 9.30), Bridie Carroll (Sun 10.00), Pat Delahunty (Sun 10.30), Pat Mullins (Sun 11.00) Michael McInerney (Sun 12.00), Andy Henderson (Sun 12.30).
Seniors’ Housing
A house has become vacant at St. Fiacre’s Gardens. Application forms will be available at the Parish Office from Tuesday next.
Revenue Charity Refund Scheme
Thanks to all who have returned completed Chy2 Certificates to enable us to reclaim some of the tax you contributed to the Revenue Commissioners last year. We appeal to all to return the completed certificates as soon as possible to enable us to submit our claim for 2010. Your kind cooperation with this scheme raised €42,814.95 for the parish last year.
“Words for Loss”
Kilkenny Bereavement Support is offering three talks during Lent on the area of loss, how it affects individuals and communities, how the bereaved can best cope with their loss, and how family, friends and neighbours can provide support to someone following a death. The talks will take place at 8.00pm in St. Patricks Parish Centre, Loughboy. 23rd March: “Bereavement and Loss”. 30th March: “Difficult Losses”. 6th April: “Being comfortable around one’s own loss and how to support others.”
For further information, contact Kilkenny Bereavement Support at 056 775 6538.
Novena to St. Joseph
The annual Mill Hill Missionaries Novena to St. Joseph continues until Saturday, 19th March – the Feast of St. Joseph. Novena Mass and Prayers each evening at 8.00pm in the Mill Hill Missionaries Chapel, St. Joseph’s, Waterford Road, Kilkenny.
Weekly Envelope Collection
Last week’s envelop collection: €1,410.00. The new envelope contribution packs are being prepared for distribution at the moment. Please advise the parish office if you didn’t receive envelopes last year and would like to contribute in this way. Thanks for your support.
Lenten Stations
This collection towards the incomes of the priests and bishop is due to be taken up this weekend. Please use the envelope in your contribution pack or any envelope marked “Stations”. Thanks for your generous support.
Parenting from the Inside Out
The Shane and Jim O’Neill Spring School is ongoing with the presentation on Tuesday 15th March entitled “Parenting from the Inside Out” This is a presentation that is particularly geared towards parents of children from 3 to 11 years of age. With humour, keen insight and proven experience, Dr. Heffernan breaks down the task of parenting into three straightforward jobs: Controlling Obnoxious Behaviour, Encouraging Good Behaviour, Strengthening your relationships. Discover how your silence can speak louder than your words – and enjoy your children again. Venue: Village Business Centre, Patrick Street (Over McDonalds). Date: Tuesday 15th March at 8.00pm. Presenter: Dr. Fergus Heffernan, with additional input from Mr. Richard Marnell, Youth and Adolescence Alcohol and Drugs Counsellor. Cost: €10; Booking 087 9277479 (booking essential).
Siamsoirí Kilkenny
This Irish traditional music fundraiser will take place in the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on St. Patrick’s Day after the 10.30am Mass. Adults: €5, Students/Children: €3.00. All welcome to come and share our heritage.
Latin Mass
Traditional Latin Mass in honour of St. Joseph, Duiske Abbey, Graignamanagh, 2.00pm, Saturday, 19th March. Organised by St. Conleth's
Catholic Heritage Association.
Kilkenny Leader Partnership
Home, Health and Well Being course in Archer Street Centre, Loughboy. This 10 week course will commence on 21st March from 10am to 12am. Classes include: Cookery, Environmental Awareness, Basic DIY, Fashion and Beauty and Grow Your Own Vegetables. Course is free. Basic Welding Course for anyone on Social Welfare Payments. For more information or to register contact Connie on 086 771 8040 or Olivia on 086 501 972.
Art Classes
Art Classes continue in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre. New Members Welcome. Contact Eamonn 086 334 5144.
Cabaret in Aid of Ceart
Come along to the Village Inn, Patrick Street, Kilkenny and be entertained by “Johnny Hillman” and Guests from 9.00pm, on March 16th
next. It promises to be a great night - Bring your family and friends to support Ceart, your local Rehabilitation Therapy Service. Tickets €5 - available at the door or 775 5757.
Loughboy Library
Chess Lessons for Teenagers will commence on Friday March 25th. Book your free place on 7794176. Exhibition Space now available due to cancellation. The Writers Circle are welcoming Dublin author Hugh Fitzgerald Ryan to their weekly meeting on Thursday march 24th at 2pm.
‘I can resist everything except temptation’: the often quoted words of Lord Darlington in Oscar Wilde’s play Lady Windermere’s Fan. Temptation is part of the human condition, a side effect of having free will. And as if to prove just how human Jesus was, the Gospel of Matthew sees him enticed with some very human temptations. It is a very human Jesus who fasts for 40 days and 40 nights, after which, naturally, ‘he was very hungry’. There is something quite dramatic about the encounter between Jesus and the devil in today’s Gospel. It has always made me imagine how the scene would play out on the big screen as part of a movie, as the ultimate epic battle between God and the devil, good and evil. There is the desperate hunger of Jesus after 40 days of fasting, the invitation to throw himself off the temple, the offer of unlimited power. Unusually for the Gospels, the devil himself appears as a character, with supporting roles from the angels who look after Jesus after the devil has left. The dialogue is sharp; it is a battle of wills, but also of wits, and we wonder who will win. But the devil is no match for Jesus. He refuses to entertain the suggestions, and is equipped both with the relevant passages from scripture and a sense of his own purpose to see off the devil’s advances. Like Jesus we are all tempted by easy pleasures and powers. Are we armed to ward off the temptations that come our way?
Triona Doherty
Cake Sale and Coffee Morning
Fr. Dan, and all associated with the Children’s Pilgrimage Trust, would like to thank all who helped make last weekend’s cake sale and coffee morning such a huge success. We say a sincere thanks to those who organised the event, those who baked and provided produce and donations and, of course, to all who purchased the cakes. The proceeds amounted to €2,478.00 and the money will be used to help send eleven children with special needs to Lourdes this Easter. Further information is available on www.irishpilgrimagetrust.com We will remember you in prayer at Lourdes.
The Season of Lent
This holy season of preparation for the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus at Easter continues. We are delighted with the number of people making use of the extra Lenten weekday Mass in our parish. All are welcome to join us at St. Fiacre’s Church on weekday evenings at 6.15pm. (However, note there will be no evening Mass on St. Patrick’s Day).
Parish “Evening of Prayer”
You are invited to join with your neighbours and friends from St. Patrick’s Parish for an evening of prayer on this Monday, 14th March at Peace in Christ Retreat House, Sion Road, Kilkenny. Time: 8.00pm - 10.30pm. Contact Retreat House on 772 1054, Rena on 776 2923 or Adeline on 772 1665. All welcome. Why not make this part of your Lenten programme.
Bible Study
Sr. De Lourdes Sheridan will hold a bible study in the Parish Centre starting on Tuesday 15th March and continuing for 6 weeks. The theme will be “Women in the Scriptures”. Time: 10.00am to 12.15pm including a cup of tea. Cost: €5.00 per session. All are welcome.
Invitation to Lenten Pilgrimage
Journey and pilgrimage are special parts of our faith tradition and this Lent Ossory Adult Faith Development is offering two pilgrimages.
The first, aimed at Parish Pastoral Councils, will act as an aid in encouraging people to reflect on their role within the parish and their serving on the Pastoral Council. This walk is by the River Barrow from St. Mullins to Graiguenamanagh with Evening Prayer in Duiske Abbey. Departing St Kieran's College by bus at 2.30pm on Sunday 27th March.
The second, aimed at people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, will be a chance to reflect on where we are going in life, our priorities and goals. This pilgrimage walk will be up Slievenamon on Sunday, 3rd April, departing from the Cross at the base of Slievenamon.
Those interested are asked to contact Ossory Adult Faith Development on 775 3624, email afd@ossory.ie or text 086 609 7483.
St. Patrick’s Day
This is the feast of our national and parish patron. Masses will follow the usual weekend schedule. The 11.00am Mass at St. Patrick’s Church will be bilingual.
Trócaire Fast Boxes
Please take a Trócaire Box home with you today and remember the world’s poor this Lent. For more information visit www.trocaire.org/lent or call 1850 408 408.
Children’s Liturgy Group
The Children’s Sunday 10.30am Mass will begin for Lent on Sunday 20th March. All children are welcome especially new comers! Participation by parents will be required and we would particularly welcome new ideas, new songs, even new musicians! Practice will take place in St Fiacre’s Church on Wednesday next at around 6.40pm (after the 6.15pm Mass).
Pray for the Deceased
Recently Deceased: Jimmy Brennan, 6 Loughboy Park. Margaret Conway, Sligo. Francie Donnelly, Fatima Place. Fr. Phil O'Brien Hexam & Newcastle Diocese and late of Kells, Co. Kilkenny
Months Mind: Kathleen Maher (Sun 10.30)
Anniversaries: Eamon O’Toole (Sat 6.15), Vincent Morrissey (Sat 7.00), Ciss Lafferty (Sun 9.30), Margaret McGrath (Sun 10.00), Mary & Michael Brannigan (Sun 11.00), John Dooley (Sun 12.00), Lizzy Ryan (Sun 12.30), Tom Manogue (Wed 9.30), Brigid Eardly (Thur 10.00), Gerry & Mary Coyne (Thur 12.00), Paddy Larkin, Eamon Muldowney, John Tynan.
Intentions for next weekend: Philomena Somers (Months Mind Sat 6.15), Chris Kenny (Sun 7.00), Kathleen Grace & Anastasia Fitzpatrick (Sun 9.30), Bridie Carroll (Sun 10.00), Pat Delahunty (Sun 10.30), Pat Mullins (Sun 11.00) Michael McInerney (Sun 12.00), Andy Henderson (Sun 12.30).
Seniors’ Housing
A house has become vacant at St. Fiacre’s Gardens. Application forms will be available at the Parish Office from Tuesday next.
Revenue Charity Refund Scheme
Thanks to all who have returned completed Chy2 Certificates to enable us to reclaim some of the tax you contributed to the Revenue Commissioners last year. We appeal to all to return the completed certificates as soon as possible to enable us to submit our claim for 2010. Your kind cooperation with this scheme raised €42,814.95 for the parish last year.
“Words for Loss”
Kilkenny Bereavement Support is offering three talks during Lent on the area of loss, how it affects individuals and communities, how the bereaved can best cope with their loss, and how family, friends and neighbours can provide support to someone following a death. The talks will take place at 8.00pm in St. Patricks Parish Centre, Loughboy. 23rd March: “Bereavement and Loss”. 30th March: “Difficult Losses”. 6th April: “Being comfortable around one’s own loss and how to support others.”
For further information, contact Kilkenny Bereavement Support at 056 775 6538.
Novena to St. Joseph
The annual Mill Hill Missionaries Novena to St. Joseph continues until Saturday, 19th March – the Feast of St. Joseph. Novena Mass and Prayers each evening at 8.00pm in the Mill Hill Missionaries Chapel, St. Joseph’s, Waterford Road, Kilkenny.
Weekly Envelope Collection
Last week’s envelop collection: €1,410.00. The new envelope contribution packs are being prepared for distribution at the moment. Please advise the parish office if you didn’t receive envelopes last year and would like to contribute in this way. Thanks for your support.
Lenten Stations
This collection towards the incomes of the priests and bishop is due to be taken up this weekend. Please use the envelope in your contribution pack or any envelope marked “Stations”. Thanks for your generous support.
Parenting from the Inside Out
The Shane and Jim O’Neill Spring School is ongoing with the presentation on Tuesday 15th March entitled “Parenting from the Inside Out” This is a presentation that is particularly geared towards parents of children from 3 to 11 years of age. With humour, keen insight and proven experience, Dr. Heffernan breaks down the task of parenting into three straightforward jobs: Controlling Obnoxious Behaviour, Encouraging Good Behaviour, Strengthening your relationships. Discover how your silence can speak louder than your words – and enjoy your children again. Venue: Village Business Centre, Patrick Street (Over McDonalds). Date: Tuesday 15th March at 8.00pm. Presenter: Dr. Fergus Heffernan, with additional input from Mr. Richard Marnell, Youth and Adolescence Alcohol and Drugs Counsellor. Cost: €10; Booking 087 9277479 (booking essential).
Siamsoirí Kilkenny
This Irish traditional music fundraiser will take place in the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on St. Patrick’s Day after the 10.30am Mass. Adults: €5, Students/Children: €3.00. All welcome to come and share our heritage.
Latin Mass
Traditional Latin Mass in honour of St. Joseph, Duiske Abbey, Graignamanagh, 2.00pm, Saturday, 19th March. Organised by St. Conleth's
Catholic Heritage Association.
Kilkenny Leader Partnership
Home, Health and Well Being course in Archer Street Centre, Loughboy. This 10 week course will commence on 21st March from 10am to 12am. Classes include: Cookery, Environmental Awareness, Basic DIY, Fashion and Beauty and Grow Your Own Vegetables. Course is free. Basic Welding Course for anyone on Social Welfare Payments. For more information or to register contact Connie on 086 771 8040 or Olivia on 086 501 972.
Art Classes
Art Classes continue in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre. New Members Welcome. Contact Eamonn 086 334 5144.
Cabaret in Aid of Ceart
Come along to the Village Inn, Patrick Street, Kilkenny and be entertained by “Johnny Hillman” and Guests from 9.00pm, on March 16th
next. It promises to be a great night - Bring your family and friends to support Ceart, your local Rehabilitation Therapy Service. Tickets €5 - available at the door or 775 5757.
Loughboy Library
Chess Lessons for Teenagers will commence on Friday March 25th. Book your free place on 7794176. Exhibition Space now available due to cancellation. The Writers Circle are welcoming Dublin author Hugh Fitzgerald Ryan to their weekly meeting on Thursday march 24th at 2pm.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time 6th March 2011
Flimsy Foundations
What a fall it had, that house built on sand. On summer holidays as a child, the challenge was always choosing the right place on the beach to build your sandcastles. Too far up the beach and the sand was too dry to stick together. Too close to the water and the whole thing could be swept away with one big wave. It’s how I imagine the house in today’s Gospel, with its flimsy foundations, would fall.
There are times when we are called to reflect on the foundations on which we build our lives. We have recently enough had to come to terms with just how shaky the foundations of our ‘Celtic Tiger’ were, how easily economic and political forces could pull asunder the security we thought we had. But what about our faith?
I have always liked the quote commonly attributed to St Francis of Assisi (though it did not actually appear in his writings): ‘Preach the Gospel; if necessary use words.’ I don’t think it is an argument for foregoing the proclamation of the Gospel in favour of good deeds and social action. Jesus is clear in today’s Gospel that he wants people to listen to his words and to act on them. We are to proclaim Christ not only with our lips but with our actions; that is the rock solid foundation.
Triona Doherty
Questions People Ask
Q. What do you think of people who are always praying or reading holy books but never lift a hand to help somebody?
A. These people are said to be so heavenly minded that they are no earthly good. It is a false piety which is used as an escape from the harsh demands of practical charity.
In today’s Gospel Jesus touches on the point: ‘It is not those who say to me “Lord, Lord”, who will enter the kingdom of heaven but the person who does the will of my Father in heaven.’
Talk is cheap and actions speak more loudly than words. St John asked, how can you say you love God whom you’ve never seen if you don’t love the person whom you do see?
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray For Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Helen Cornally, 22 St. Fiacre’s Place. Kathleen Dwyer, Greensbridge. Anne Lydon, Vancouver Canada. Fr. Joe Feely, Salford, Manchester.
Months Mind: Dympna O’Byrne (Sat 6.15), Ann Nolan (Sun 9.30), Tommy Hickey (Sun 10.00).
Anniversaries: Pat Adams (Sat 7.00), Eileen Hickey & Kieran Hickey (Sun 10.00), Margaret McGrath (Sun 10.30), Evelyn Herlihy & Christian Maher (Sun 11.00), Michael Brophy (Sun12.00), Lulu Lynch (Sun 12.30), TP McKenna (Mon 10.30), Bobby Brannigan (Fri 9.30), John Barry (Fri 10.30), Olive Malone (Fri 6.15), John & Kitty Cleere, Margaret Nyhan, Patrick Leahy, Noel Glynn, John Hodge, Dolly Blanch, Tom Manogue, Sr. Teresa Landy, Michael & Mary Tyrrell, Denis Gorey, Bishop Peter Birch.
Intentions for Next Weekend: Eamon O’Toole (Sat 6.15), Vincent Morrissey (Sat 7.00), Ciss Leahy (Sun 9.30), Margaret McGrath (Sun 10.00), Kathleen Maher (Months Mind Sun 10.30), Mary & Michael Brannigan (Sun 11.00), John Dooley (Sun 12.00), Lizzy Ryan (Sun 12.30).
Novena to St. Joseph
The annual Mill Hill Missionaries Novena to St. Joseph begins on Friday, 11th of March and finishes on Saturday, 19th March – the Feast of St. Joseph. Novena Mass and Prayers each evening at 8.00pm in the Mill Hill Missionaries Chapel, St. Joseph’s, Waterford Road, Kilkenny. Fr. Maurice McGill, MHM Regional Superior, will be celebrate the closing Mass on the Feast of St. Joseph -Saturday, 19th of March - at 8pm.
Westcourt News
The monthly Mass to pray for intercession of Blessed Edmund Rice and for his canonisation will be celebrated in Westcourt, Callan on Monday, 7th March at 7.30pm.
Church Gate Collection
The recent collection for the Senior Citizens of our Parish amounted to €1,025.07. Thanks
Ash Wednesday
Next Wednesday is Ash Wednesday and is the beginning of the Season of Lent. At our morning Masses we will bless ashes and begin our Lenten observance.
On Ash Wednesday (and for all the weekdays of Lent), there will be an evening Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 6.15pm.
There will be an extra Mass at Foulkstown at 7.00pm on Ash Wednesday which RTE will broadcast on LW 252. This is the first Ash Wednesday religious broadcast by RTE and all are welcome.
Extra Lenten Mass
As mentioned above, there will be an evening Mass on each weekday evening of Lent starting at 6.15pm. This is a very popular celebration for people wishing to make Mass a part of their Lenten observance. All are welcome to join us. Our morning Masses remain at the usual times: St. Patrick’s Church at 9.30am and St. Fiacre’s Church at 10.30am.
Evening of Prayer and Reflection
The sisters and staff at Peace in Christ Retreat House invite the people of St. Patrick’s Parish to an evening of Prayer and Reflection at Peace in Christ, Sion Road on Monday, 14th March. The sisters look forward to welcoming the people of our parish and to exploring the gospel in a creative, prayerful atmosphere. The evening starts at 8.00pm and concludes at about 10.30pm. All are welcome.
Bible Study
Sr. De Lourdes Sheridan will hold a bible study in the Parish Centre starting on Tuesday 15th March and continuing for 6 weeks. The theme will be “Women in the Scriptures”. Time: 10.00am to 12.15pm including a cup of tea. Cost: €5.00. All are welcome.
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, 11th March in the Parish Centre immediately after the 10.30am Mass. All are welcome.
Through Lent to Easter
The Adult Faith Development Group in our diocese has organised a short course during Lent for all involved in the liturgical, prayer and music ministries in the parishes of Ossory. It is a chance for us to come together to reflect on how we celebrate Lent as a personal journey and community experience.
These evenings are particularly aimed at Eucharistic ministers; lectors; baptismal teams; choirs; sacristans and indeed anyone who has an interest in the celebration of Lent as a time of preparation for Easter.
Fortunately for our parishioners the venue is St Patrick's Parish Centre, from 7.30 - 8.30pm on the following evenings:- Tuesday, 8th March: The liturgical history of Lent; Tuesday, 15th March: Celebrating Lent as a Parish Community; Tuesday, 22nd March: The Music of Lent; Tuesday, 29th March: Experiencing Reconciliation in Lent.
The course is presented by Fr Willie Purcell and we encourage all, especially those involved in parish liturgical ministry, to attend.
St. Patrick’s Church
During the week, engineers will begin work on the heating system in St. Patrick’s Church. This is to allow essential maintenance and we hope to keep disruption to a minimum. However, it may mean the church will be without heat on certain days and we hope this won’t inconvenience people.
This work is part of the ongoing maintenance carried out on all our churches. Recently the lighting system was upgraded at St. Joseph’s Church and a security system installed in St. Patrick’s Church.
Cake Sale and Coffee Morning
There will be a Cake Sale at the Parish Centre after all Masses at St. Fiacre’s Church this weekend. Coffees/Teas will also be served after the Sunday morning Masses. This is to help raise funds to enable young people with special needs to travel to Lourdes at Easter. The event is organised by Group 174 of the Irish Pilgrimage Trust. www.ihcpt.com
Building Resilience in Families
The Shane and Jim O’Neill Spring School presents an education programme focusing on building resilience in families. The presentation on Tuesday, 8th March at 8pm is “Understanding Mental Health” How to Understand and Protect your Families Mental Health. Presenter: Dr. Fergus Heffernan Psychologist. Venue: Village Business Centre (over McDonalds), Patricks Street. Kilkenny. Booking (essential) 087 927 7479. Cost €10. See poster in church for details.
The Year of the Hiker
Dawn Players present John B Kean’s The Year of the Hiker at the Watergate Theatre on this Saturday evening. Tickets at €12 are available at the door. This event is to raise money for Group 191 of the Irish Pilgrimage Trust.
Weekly Envelope Collection
Last week’s envelop collection: €1,060. The new envelope contribution packs are prepared for distribution. Please contact the parish office if you didn’t receive envelopes last year and would like to contribute to the parish in this way. Thank you for your support.
St. John of God
We celebrate St. John of God’s feast day on Tuesday. As we do we wish the sisters in our parish a very happy feast day.
Rosary
Monthly rosary at the statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny on Sunday 6th March at 3pm.
Church Gate Collection
The Annual Church Gate Collection for the School of the Holy Spirit will take place next weekend. Please support.
Siamsoirí Kilkenny
This Irish traditional music fundraiser will take place in the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on St. Patrick’s Day after the 10.30am Mass. Adults: €5, Students/Children: €3.00. All welcome.
Journey to Freedom
John Pridmore’s new book, Journey to Freedom, is out now. John speaks bluntly about the deceptions of the world he was in and openly about the foundation of his new life. Price €12.50 on www.johnpridmore.com or any good bookshop.
What a fall it had, that house built on sand. On summer holidays as a child, the challenge was always choosing the right place on the beach to build your sandcastles. Too far up the beach and the sand was too dry to stick together. Too close to the water and the whole thing could be swept away with one big wave. It’s how I imagine the house in today’s Gospel, with its flimsy foundations, would fall.
There are times when we are called to reflect on the foundations on which we build our lives. We have recently enough had to come to terms with just how shaky the foundations of our ‘Celtic Tiger’ were, how easily economic and political forces could pull asunder the security we thought we had. But what about our faith?
I have always liked the quote commonly attributed to St Francis of Assisi (though it did not actually appear in his writings): ‘Preach the Gospel; if necessary use words.’ I don’t think it is an argument for foregoing the proclamation of the Gospel in favour of good deeds and social action. Jesus is clear in today’s Gospel that he wants people to listen to his words and to act on them. We are to proclaim Christ not only with our lips but with our actions; that is the rock solid foundation.
Triona Doherty
Questions People Ask
Q. What do you think of people who are always praying or reading holy books but never lift a hand to help somebody?
A. These people are said to be so heavenly minded that they are no earthly good. It is a false piety which is used as an escape from the harsh demands of practical charity.
In today’s Gospel Jesus touches on the point: ‘It is not those who say to me “Lord, Lord”, who will enter the kingdom of heaven but the person who does the will of my Father in heaven.’
Talk is cheap and actions speak more loudly than words. St John asked, how can you say you love God whom you’ve never seen if you don’t love the person whom you do see?
Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray For Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Helen Cornally, 22 St. Fiacre’s Place. Kathleen Dwyer, Greensbridge. Anne Lydon, Vancouver Canada. Fr. Joe Feely, Salford, Manchester.
Months Mind: Dympna O’Byrne (Sat 6.15), Ann Nolan (Sun 9.30), Tommy Hickey (Sun 10.00).
Anniversaries: Pat Adams (Sat 7.00), Eileen Hickey & Kieran Hickey (Sun 10.00), Margaret McGrath (Sun 10.30), Evelyn Herlihy & Christian Maher (Sun 11.00), Michael Brophy (Sun12.00), Lulu Lynch (Sun 12.30), TP McKenna (Mon 10.30), Bobby Brannigan (Fri 9.30), John Barry (Fri 10.30), Olive Malone (Fri 6.15), John & Kitty Cleere, Margaret Nyhan, Patrick Leahy, Noel Glynn, John Hodge, Dolly Blanch, Tom Manogue, Sr. Teresa Landy, Michael & Mary Tyrrell, Denis Gorey, Bishop Peter Birch.
Intentions for Next Weekend: Eamon O’Toole (Sat 6.15), Vincent Morrissey (Sat 7.00), Ciss Leahy (Sun 9.30), Margaret McGrath (Sun 10.00), Kathleen Maher (Months Mind Sun 10.30), Mary & Michael Brannigan (Sun 11.00), John Dooley (Sun 12.00), Lizzy Ryan (Sun 12.30).
Novena to St. Joseph
The annual Mill Hill Missionaries Novena to St. Joseph begins on Friday, 11th of March and finishes on Saturday, 19th March – the Feast of St. Joseph. Novena Mass and Prayers each evening at 8.00pm in the Mill Hill Missionaries Chapel, St. Joseph’s, Waterford Road, Kilkenny. Fr. Maurice McGill, MHM Regional Superior, will be celebrate the closing Mass on the Feast of St. Joseph -Saturday, 19th of March - at 8pm.
Westcourt News
The monthly Mass to pray for intercession of Blessed Edmund Rice and for his canonisation will be celebrated in Westcourt, Callan on Monday, 7th March at 7.30pm.
Church Gate Collection
The recent collection for the Senior Citizens of our Parish amounted to €1,025.07. Thanks
Ash Wednesday
Next Wednesday is Ash Wednesday and is the beginning of the Season of Lent. At our morning Masses we will bless ashes and begin our Lenten observance.
On Ash Wednesday (and for all the weekdays of Lent), there will be an evening Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 6.15pm.
There will be an extra Mass at Foulkstown at 7.00pm on Ash Wednesday which RTE will broadcast on LW 252. This is the first Ash Wednesday religious broadcast by RTE and all are welcome.
Extra Lenten Mass
As mentioned above, there will be an evening Mass on each weekday evening of Lent starting at 6.15pm. This is a very popular celebration for people wishing to make Mass a part of their Lenten observance. All are welcome to join us. Our morning Masses remain at the usual times: St. Patrick’s Church at 9.30am and St. Fiacre’s Church at 10.30am.
Evening of Prayer and Reflection
The sisters and staff at Peace in Christ Retreat House invite the people of St. Patrick’s Parish to an evening of Prayer and Reflection at Peace in Christ, Sion Road on Monday, 14th March. The sisters look forward to welcoming the people of our parish and to exploring the gospel in a creative, prayerful atmosphere. The evening starts at 8.00pm and concludes at about 10.30pm. All are welcome.
Bible Study
Sr. De Lourdes Sheridan will hold a bible study in the Parish Centre starting on Tuesday 15th March and continuing for 6 weeks. The theme will be “Women in the Scriptures”. Time: 10.00am to 12.15pm including a cup of tea. Cost: €5.00. All are welcome.
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, 11th March in the Parish Centre immediately after the 10.30am Mass. All are welcome.
Through Lent to Easter
The Adult Faith Development Group in our diocese has organised a short course during Lent for all involved in the liturgical, prayer and music ministries in the parishes of Ossory. It is a chance for us to come together to reflect on how we celebrate Lent as a personal journey and community experience.
These evenings are particularly aimed at Eucharistic ministers; lectors; baptismal teams; choirs; sacristans and indeed anyone who has an interest in the celebration of Lent as a time of preparation for Easter.
Fortunately for our parishioners the venue is St Patrick's Parish Centre, from 7.30 - 8.30pm on the following evenings:- Tuesday, 8th March: The liturgical history of Lent; Tuesday, 15th March: Celebrating Lent as a Parish Community; Tuesday, 22nd March: The Music of Lent; Tuesday, 29th March: Experiencing Reconciliation in Lent.
The course is presented by Fr Willie Purcell and we encourage all, especially those involved in parish liturgical ministry, to attend.
St. Patrick’s Church
During the week, engineers will begin work on the heating system in St. Patrick’s Church. This is to allow essential maintenance and we hope to keep disruption to a minimum. However, it may mean the church will be without heat on certain days and we hope this won’t inconvenience people.
This work is part of the ongoing maintenance carried out on all our churches. Recently the lighting system was upgraded at St. Joseph’s Church and a security system installed in St. Patrick’s Church.
Cake Sale and Coffee Morning
There will be a Cake Sale at the Parish Centre after all Masses at St. Fiacre’s Church this weekend. Coffees/Teas will also be served after the Sunday morning Masses. This is to help raise funds to enable young people with special needs to travel to Lourdes at Easter. The event is organised by Group 174 of the Irish Pilgrimage Trust. www.ihcpt.com
Building Resilience in Families
The Shane and Jim O’Neill Spring School presents an education programme focusing on building resilience in families. The presentation on Tuesday, 8th March at 8pm is “Understanding Mental Health” How to Understand and Protect your Families Mental Health. Presenter: Dr. Fergus Heffernan Psychologist. Venue: Village Business Centre (over McDonalds), Patricks Street. Kilkenny. Booking (essential) 087 927 7479. Cost €10. See poster in church for details.
The Year of the Hiker
Dawn Players present John B Kean’s The Year of the Hiker at the Watergate Theatre on this Saturday evening. Tickets at €12 are available at the door. This event is to raise money for Group 191 of the Irish Pilgrimage Trust.
Weekly Envelope Collection
Last week’s envelop collection: €1,060. The new envelope contribution packs are prepared for distribution. Please contact the parish office if you didn’t receive envelopes last year and would like to contribute to the parish in this way. Thank you for your support.
St. John of God
We celebrate St. John of God’s feast day on Tuesday. As we do we wish the sisters in our parish a very happy feast day.
Rosary
Monthly rosary at the statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny on Sunday 6th March at 3pm.
Church Gate Collection
The Annual Church Gate Collection for the School of the Holy Spirit will take place next weekend. Please support.
Siamsoirí Kilkenny
This Irish traditional music fundraiser will take place in the St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on St. Patrick’s Day after the 10.30am Mass. Adults: €5, Students/Children: €3.00. All welcome.
Journey to Freedom
John Pridmore’s new book, Journey to Freedom, is out now. John speaks bluntly about the deceptions of the world he was in and openly about the foundation of his new life. Price €12.50 on www.johnpridmore.com or any good bookshop.
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