An Inside View
‘If you want somebody to understand what the major intellects of the world religions mean by God, you could do a great deal worse than introduce them to Anna.’ Archbishop of Canterbury Dr. Rowan Williams is among the many fans of Mister God, This is Anna, the story of four year old Anna and her friendship with 16 year old Flynn, the author. Anna’s outpouring on life, science and God, or ‘Mister God’ as she calls him, have entranced readers for years, bursting as they do with joy, inquisitiveness and insight. During a discussion on ‘Mister God’ and the ways in which he is different from people, Anna concludes: ‘So you see, Flynn, people can’t talk about Mister God from the outside; you can only talk about Mister God from the inside of him.’ As an illustration of the mystery of God’s presence with us, it goes a long way. It is this mystery that Jesus breaks down for his disciples in today’s Gospel when he promises to send his Spirit to be with them; ‘On that day you will understand that I am in my Father and you in me and I in you’. Four year old Anna seems to have a handle on this mystery.
Triona Doherty
Questions People Ask
Q. What is Padre Pio’s Bread? Somebody gave me a mixture of dough called Padre Pio’s Bread with detailed instructions about passing it on to others.
I have met several people who have been upset by this crazy nonsense, fearing punishment or bad luck if they do not co-operate. It is like those chain letters which play on gullibility and fear. A portion of dough is passed on to three people with detailed instructions on how to nurture the dough for nine days. Then on the tenth day it is cut into four pieces, one to be baked and eaten, and three portions to be passed on to others. Get rid of this nonsense which upsets people and gives religion a bad name.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Angela Quigley, Castlecomer Road, Kilkenny.
Months Mind: Ted O’Dwyer (Sun 12.00)
Anniversaries: Tommy & Kitty Phelan (Sat 6.15), William Doheny (Sat 7.00), John Cleere (Sun 9.30), Blánaid Cleere-Manning (Sun 10.00), Joseph Hehir (Sun 10.30), Gerald Keys (Sun 12.30), John Scott (Wed 9.30), Patrick Lanigan (Sun 10.30), John Delaney, (Mon 9.30), John Scott (Wed 9.30, Patrick Lanigan (Wed 10.30), Richard Ruth (Thurs 10.30), Helen Renehan (St. Fiacre’s Church Fri 7.30) Bridget Leahy, Bridget Culleton, Joseph Curry, John & Eileen Fennelly, Jim Carew, Eileen & John Ryan, John & Sean Brett, Agnes Dermody, Kathleen Drennan, Mary Lanigan, Mary Drennan, Harry Kelly, Brian Mahon, Philip Morrissey
Intentions for next weekend: Joseph Murray (Sat 6.15), James Hogan (Sat 7.00), Jim O’Brien (Sun 10.30).
Friday Exposition
Following consultation with the organisers and regular worshippers at the Friday exposition in St. Patrick’s Church, it was decided to discontinue the morning worship and concentrate all effort and prayer on the 4.00pm to 9.00pm exposition We thank those who were faithful to the morning slot and we encourage them to join us from 4.00pm to 9.00pm in the side chapel of St. Patrick’s Church. This change in times is to facilitate weddings and funerals that occur frequently in the church on Fridays. Thanks to everyone for their understanding and cooperation.
First Saturday Devotion
This time of prayer will take place in St. Fiacre’s Church, Loughboy on Saturday, 4th June after 6.15pm Mass. Prayers and adoration will end at 9.00pm. All are welcome.
Bereavement Support Group
The St. Patrick’s Parish Bereavement Support Group offers support to bereaved parishioners. Phone 086 162 9089 to make an appointment to meet members of the group. This is a free and confidential service.
Parish Pilgrimage to Knock
One of the key moments in the pastoral preparation for the 50th International Eucharistic Congress to be held in Ireland next summer is the celebration of a short National Eucharistic Congress at Knock Shrine on June 25th and 26th of this year. People from every diocese will gather together in Knock on June 25th and there will be a liturgical celebration in each diocese on the same weekend (In Ossory the diocesan event will be an Eucharistic Procession in Kilkenny City on the previous Sunday, 19th June 2011).
On Saturday 25th June, pilgrims will travel from every corner of Ireland, some arriving in time for a celebration of Morning Prayer in Knock at 11.00am. The heart of the National Congress at Knock will be the celebration of the Eucharist, preceded by the anointing of the sick. The first reading at Mass on that day is the account of the hospitality of Abraham from the Book of Genesis. It is a powerful reminder of how, even in Old Testament times, people were aware of how God enters into our lives, draws us into communion with Him and forms us into a people of His very own.
During the Mass, a large candle with the Eucharistic Congress Logo will be blessed for each of the twenty-six cathedrals in Ireland. These will be brought back to each diocese to be placed at the centre of a later diocesan celebration. As we continue our preparation for 2012, these candles will be a reminder of Christ’s presence in each diocesan community and of the communion of the Irish Church.
St. Patrick’s Parish, in conjunction with the local St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society, will run a coach to Knock for this unique event. Further details and fares will be announced during the coming weeks. Please contact Doreen Griffin at the Sacristy in St. Fiacre’s Church or the Parish Office for further information and to book tickets.
Envelope Collection
Last weekend’s envelope collection: €1,610.00. Thank you for your continuous generosity and support to the priests and parish.
Is the Mass Changing?
The structure of the Mass is not changing. The order and the actions of the Mass remain unchanged. The readings at Mass are not changed. However, with the introduction of the new edition of the Roman Missal throughout the English-speaking world, we will all notice a change in how the Mass sounds. The translations of a number of our prayer texts from the original Latin have changed – sometimes by a particular word or in the word order. Prayers that we have become used to reciting by memory now have to be relearned. Prayers that we are used to hearing the priest say will sound different to us. The style of language we will hear and pray may seem more formal to us and perhaps, in parts, more complex. But over time, with the praying of these texts, the sound of the Mass will again become familiar to us.
Golf for Older Adults
Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership is organising an “Introduction to Golf” for Older Adults. The programme will consist of 4 lessons over the month of June and at the end of the month, there will be an afternoon in Kilkenny Golf Club. The cost of the programme is €20 per participant. Please note that this is only for those who have not played golf previously. To register your place, contact the Sports Partnership on 056 772 0870.
MABS
Kilkenny Money Advice & Budgeting Service is a free, confidential and independent service covering Kilkenny City & County. We assist people who have debt problems, who need ongoing support with budgeting, who need advice on money management etc.
Information leaflets available at the back of the church.
Irish Red Cross (Kilkenny City Branch)
Annual Church gate collection will be held next Saturday and Sunday 4th & 5th June. Please support.
An Chéad Chomaoineach Naofa
Comhghairdeas leis na buachaillí agus cailíní ó Rang II, Gaelscoil Osraí, Ranganna Múinteoirí Méabh agus Niamh a ghlac an Chéad Chomaoineach ar an Satharn i Séipéal Naomh Fiacra.
Congratulations to all involved with this year’s First Holy Communion Class at Gaelscoil Osraí. The boys and girls received the Eucharist for the first time on Saturday.
May the Lord continue to bless these children and all who received sacraments these past few weeks in our parish.
Embracing Dementia - A Call to Love
11th June, 2011 at 11.00 a.m.
Troyscourt Day Care Centre – St Canice’s Parish. Finding hope loving someone with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Ellen Marie Edmonds is happy to share her story to help those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia diseases. Free of Charge.
Enquiries – Fr. Jim Murphy 087 26095545
Irish Cancer Society
Presents Understanding the Emotional effects of Cancer. A meeting for cancer patients, family members and carers. A presentation offering practical advice on understanding and managing the emotional effects of cancer, from diagnosis stage onwards. Mon 13th June, The Carlton Hotel, Dan Spring Road, Tralee. Tues 14th June, The River Lee Hotel, Western Road, Co. Cork
Wednesday 15th June, The Clonmel Park Hotel, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. Thurs 16th June, The Camden Court Hotel, Camden St. Dublin. Time: 6.30pm refreshments served. Meeting starts 7pm. Guest Speaker: Dr Sonya Collier, Principal Clinical Psychologist, St. James’s Hospital. Admission is free - places are limited. To book your place, call Valerie on 01 2310518 or email vabbott@irishcancer,ie before Tuesday 7th June.
“Cuppa for Crumlin”
A coffee morning, to support Crumlin Hospital for Sick Children, will be held at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, on Thursday 2nd June from 10.30am to 12.30pm. We would really appreciate your support on the day.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 22nd May 2011
Have a Little Faith
‘I am not self-conscious. I am confident. I can do anything.’ The 2010 documentary, The Sound of Mumbai, follows the story of 11 year old Ashish and his friends from the Mumbai slums who come together for one night to perform The Sound of Music with the Bombay Chamber Orchestra in the National Centre for the Performing Arts. As he prepares to take on a solo in the concert, Ashish gives himself a pep talk every night, writing out and repeating the mantra ‘I am confident. I have confidence’. Amid self-doubt and some jealousy from his peers, and with the hopes of his entire family riding on this one performance, Ashish carries off the solo with aplomb. The documentary ends with him bidding ‘auf wiedersehen’ to his mentor, Austrian-born orchestra conductor Johannis Steinwender who is returning home. ‘I’m going back to Austria and they are going back to the slums,’ he remarks, promising Ashish that they will meet again when he returns. The grinning boy returns to his family life, with the memory of his moment in the spotlight and his dreams of a brighter future.
Today’s Gospel speaks to us of trust, and of hope. ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled,’ are the comforting words of Jesus. ‘Trust in God still, and trust in me.’ Jesus is going away but he will return. As well as trusting in Jesus, the disciples must trust in themselves and their experience of Jesus. In spite of Thomas and Philip’s questions, they already know the way to the Father, because Jesus is the way. They have already seen the Father, because he is in Jesus. And if they truly believe they will perform ‘even greater works’ than Jesus himself. All it takes is faith!
Triona Doherty
Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes
Bishop Séamus and over 400 people from the Diocese of Ossory departed for Lourdes over the weekend on the annual diocesan pilgrimage. We wish them well on their journey and pray for them while they are away. The diocesan Mass will be broadcast on www.lourdes-france.org on Tuesday at 7.30am Irish time.
Questions People Ask
Q. What is the point of reading all those bits in the Old Testament about smiting enemies?
A. Yes, these passages do not make pleasant reading. But at least they show us the ugly side of human history and the world’s need of a Saviour. Throughout the Old Testament there is a gradual development in the understanding of God’s revelation, reaching completion only in the coming of Jesus Christ. Remember those parts of the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus moves from ‘You have heard it said’ to ‘but I say to you’. The history into which Jesus was born was far from perfect. Are we any better today? Instead of pointing fingers at people of bygone ages, we’d be better advised to look at our own lives in the light of Jesus’ teaching.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Jubilee Congratulations
We would like to offer our congratulations to Sr. Euphrasia Cadogan and Sr. Brid Griffin of the St. John of God Congregation on their respective jubilees. Sr. Euphrasia celebrates 70 years in religious life while Sr. Brid marks her diamond jubilee. Well done and God’s continued blessing to you both.
Eucharistic Congress
The 50th International Eucharistic Congress will be held in Ireland in from 10th to 17th June 2012. The organisers are currently looking for volunteers for all aspects of their work. Are you free to join the journey? View www.iec2012.ie or call 01 207 1840 for more details.
New Blog
Those of you that are internet savvy may be interested to know that Fr. Liam has a blog online. It features daily reflections and pictures and it’s free to view. Check it out at:
http://frliamsblog.blogspot.com/
Cura
Pregnant and distressed? Like to talk to someone in confidence? Phone 1850 622 626
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Anthony (Tony) O’Farrell, Rioch Street. Prayers at St. Luke’s Hospital at 11.00am on Monday followed by removal to St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown for Requiem Mass at 12.00 noon. Burial immediately afterwards. Martin Phelan, St. Teresa’s Terrace. Requiem Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 12.00 noon on Sunday. Burial in Freshford. Elizabeth Somers, Butts Green. Requiem Mass at St. Canice’s Church at 11.00am on Monday. Dave McGrath, 54 St. Fiacre’s Place. Bridie Fahy, 2 Archers Court. Brigid O’Connell, 1 Golf Links Road. Noel Cantwell, Hertfordshire and formerly of Nuncio Road. Jean O’Dwyer, Ballyfoyle.
Months Mind: Roy Barry (Sun 10.30), Jimmy O’Neill (Sun 12.30).
Anniversaries: Michael Maher (Sat 6.15), Joe Davy (Sat 7.00), Ciaran Flood (Sun 9.30), Jack Carroll (Sun 10.00), Nelly Garrehy (Sun 11.00), Mary Deegan (Sun 12.00), Kathleen King (Tues 9.30), Rev Richard Conway (Tues 10.30), Patrick Banahan (Fri 9.30), Mary Brennan, Kathleen O’Carroll, Bridie Conroy, Michael Smyth, Canice Downes, Eileen Culleton, Pat Smyth, Bridget & Michael Long, Mary Walsh, Annie Bourke, Mollie Owens, Sean Monahan, Michael & Christina McGrath, Departed members of the McGrath Family, Canice Downes.
Intentions for Next Weekend: Tommy & Kitty Phelan (Sat 6.15), William Doheny (Sat 7.00), John Cleere (Sun 9.30), Blánaid Cleere Manning (Sun 10.00), Joseph Hehir (Sun 10.30), Ted O’Dwyer (Months Mind Sun 12.00), Gerald Keys (Sun 12.30).
Fr Gerard Rice
Ordained in 1961, Fr Gerard Rice of the Diocese of Meath spent seven years on loan to St Patrick’s Parish. This year he celebrates the 50th anniversary of his ordination. To celebrate the Golden Jubilee, Fr Rice will offer a Mass of Thanksgiving in St Oliver Plunkett’s Church in Kilcloon, Co. Meath at 7.00pm on 17th June 2011. Refreshments afterwards in the Blackhall Gaels GAA Hall in Batterstown. All welcome!
Friday Exposition
Every Friday we hold exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in St. Patrick’s Church from 10.00am until 1.00pm and from 4.00pm until 9.00pm. More often than not however, our morning worship is interrupted on account of funerals, weddings and other functions being held in St. Patrick’s Church in the mornings and afternoons. As of late, we have been postponing the morning part of the exposition when there are weddings in the afternoon. This is due to florists and others arriving early to prepare the church and on occasion some have shown little regard for the Blessed Sacrament (One florist even moved the monstrance to the side while he was arranging his flowers on the altar). We know that such postponement has caused upset for regular worshippers and some have stopped attending in the morning.
It is therefore proposed that we end Friday morning exposition altogether in St. Patrick’s Church and concentrate on the evening time from 4.00pm to 9.00pm. We would like to hear people’s opinions on this. As it is, more people are required to keep watch and pray during these hours of exposition. Please let us know what you think.
Ossory Diocesan Guide
The annual Ossory diocesan Guide which details contact numbers for all of the parishes, priests and organisations in the Diocese of Ossory and much more is available to buy from the Parish Office. Cost €5.00.
Band Session
St. Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band presents a 2 Band Session in the Set Theatre on Friday 27th May featuring The Marble City Sounds and The Uptown Band plus Disco with guest artiste Eugene Dewberry. All this for just €5. A great night is guaranteed for all.
Envelope Collection
Last weekend’s envelope collection: €1,350.00. Thank you. It is our intention to publish the relevant figure each week - because of an oversight we missed a number of weeks. Sorry!
Invest in the Future Stars
Get your party suit ready because James Stephen’s Juvenile Committee is organising a fund raising event in the club for all members, players, parents and supporters to come along to a 70’s/80’s themed night in the clubrooms on Friday, 17th June. This event will help raise much needed funds to invest in our juvenile/youth structures to continue to grow and strengthen the club. Tickets: €5.00 (Disco by DJ Benny, Finger food, Spot prizes galore). Contact any juvenile coach or club selector/officer to purchase a ticket(s).
Social Networking
Connect to the James Stephens facebook page which gives daily updates on all fixtures, results, social events and club development by logging onto www.facebook.com/villagegaa or connect to the twitter page by logging onto www.twitter.com/VillageGAA
Carers’ Association
Support Group meetings will now be held monthly. The last Thursday of every month starting Thursday, 26th May. Mass in Loughboy at 10.30am, meeting in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 11.00am. We look forward to seeing you there
Thoughts for Life
The greatest handicap is FEAR
The best day is TODAY
The easiest thing to do is FIND FAULT
Most useless asset is PRIDE
The greatest mistake is GIVING UP
The greatest stumbling block is EGOTISM
The greatest comfort is WORK WELL DONE
The most disagreeable person is THE COMPLAINER
The worst bankruptcy is LOSS OF ENTHUSIASM
The greatest need is COMMON SENSE
The meanest feeling is REGRET ANOTHER'S SUCCESS
The best gift is FORGIVENESS
The greatest moment is DEATH
The greatest knowledge is GOD
The greatest thing in the world is LOVE!
Foroige
The regional youth officer with Foroige in Kilkenny City is trying to set up one or two volunteer Foroige youth clubs. There is a lot of interest among young people but they need volunteers to run them. If you are interested please contact mailyn.venn@foroige.ie
‘I am not self-conscious. I am confident. I can do anything.’ The 2010 documentary, The Sound of Mumbai, follows the story of 11 year old Ashish and his friends from the Mumbai slums who come together for one night to perform The Sound of Music with the Bombay Chamber Orchestra in the National Centre for the Performing Arts. As he prepares to take on a solo in the concert, Ashish gives himself a pep talk every night, writing out and repeating the mantra ‘I am confident. I have confidence’. Amid self-doubt and some jealousy from his peers, and with the hopes of his entire family riding on this one performance, Ashish carries off the solo with aplomb. The documentary ends with him bidding ‘auf wiedersehen’ to his mentor, Austrian-born orchestra conductor Johannis Steinwender who is returning home. ‘I’m going back to Austria and they are going back to the slums,’ he remarks, promising Ashish that they will meet again when he returns. The grinning boy returns to his family life, with the memory of his moment in the spotlight and his dreams of a brighter future.
Today’s Gospel speaks to us of trust, and of hope. ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled,’ are the comforting words of Jesus. ‘Trust in God still, and trust in me.’ Jesus is going away but he will return. As well as trusting in Jesus, the disciples must trust in themselves and their experience of Jesus. In spite of Thomas and Philip’s questions, they already know the way to the Father, because Jesus is the way. They have already seen the Father, because he is in Jesus. And if they truly believe they will perform ‘even greater works’ than Jesus himself. All it takes is faith!
Triona Doherty
Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes
Bishop Séamus and over 400 people from the Diocese of Ossory departed for Lourdes over the weekend on the annual diocesan pilgrimage. We wish them well on their journey and pray for them while they are away. The diocesan Mass will be broadcast on www.lourdes-france.org on Tuesday at 7.30am Irish time.
Questions People Ask
Q. What is the point of reading all those bits in the Old Testament about smiting enemies?
A. Yes, these passages do not make pleasant reading. But at least they show us the ugly side of human history and the world’s need of a Saviour. Throughout the Old Testament there is a gradual development in the understanding of God’s revelation, reaching completion only in the coming of Jesus Christ. Remember those parts of the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus moves from ‘You have heard it said’ to ‘but I say to you’. The history into which Jesus was born was far from perfect. Are we any better today? Instead of pointing fingers at people of bygone ages, we’d be better advised to look at our own lives in the light of Jesus’ teaching.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Jubilee Congratulations
We would like to offer our congratulations to Sr. Euphrasia Cadogan and Sr. Brid Griffin of the St. John of God Congregation on their respective jubilees. Sr. Euphrasia celebrates 70 years in religious life while Sr. Brid marks her diamond jubilee. Well done and God’s continued blessing to you both.
Eucharistic Congress
The 50th International Eucharistic Congress will be held in Ireland in from 10th to 17th June 2012. The organisers are currently looking for volunteers for all aspects of their work. Are you free to join the journey? View www.iec2012.ie or call 01 207 1840 for more details.
New Blog
Those of you that are internet savvy may be interested to know that Fr. Liam has a blog online. It features daily reflections and pictures and it’s free to view. Check it out at:
http://frliamsblog.blogspot.com/
Cura
Pregnant and distressed? Like to talk to someone in confidence? Phone 1850 622 626
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Anthony (Tony) O’Farrell, Rioch Street. Prayers at St. Luke’s Hospital at 11.00am on Monday followed by removal to St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown for Requiem Mass at 12.00 noon. Burial immediately afterwards. Martin Phelan, St. Teresa’s Terrace. Requiem Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 12.00 noon on Sunday. Burial in Freshford. Elizabeth Somers, Butts Green. Requiem Mass at St. Canice’s Church at 11.00am on Monday. Dave McGrath, 54 St. Fiacre’s Place. Bridie Fahy, 2 Archers Court. Brigid O’Connell, 1 Golf Links Road. Noel Cantwell, Hertfordshire and formerly of Nuncio Road. Jean O’Dwyer, Ballyfoyle.
Months Mind: Roy Barry (Sun 10.30), Jimmy O’Neill (Sun 12.30).
Anniversaries: Michael Maher (Sat 6.15), Joe Davy (Sat 7.00), Ciaran Flood (Sun 9.30), Jack Carroll (Sun 10.00), Nelly Garrehy (Sun 11.00), Mary Deegan (Sun 12.00), Kathleen King (Tues 9.30), Rev Richard Conway (Tues 10.30), Patrick Banahan (Fri 9.30), Mary Brennan, Kathleen O’Carroll, Bridie Conroy, Michael Smyth, Canice Downes, Eileen Culleton, Pat Smyth, Bridget & Michael Long, Mary Walsh, Annie Bourke, Mollie Owens, Sean Monahan, Michael & Christina McGrath, Departed members of the McGrath Family, Canice Downes.
Intentions for Next Weekend: Tommy & Kitty Phelan (Sat 6.15), William Doheny (Sat 7.00), John Cleere (Sun 9.30), Blánaid Cleere Manning (Sun 10.00), Joseph Hehir (Sun 10.30), Ted O’Dwyer (Months Mind Sun 12.00), Gerald Keys (Sun 12.30).
Fr Gerard Rice
Ordained in 1961, Fr Gerard Rice of the Diocese of Meath spent seven years on loan to St Patrick’s Parish. This year he celebrates the 50th anniversary of his ordination. To celebrate the Golden Jubilee, Fr Rice will offer a Mass of Thanksgiving in St Oliver Plunkett’s Church in Kilcloon, Co. Meath at 7.00pm on 17th June 2011. Refreshments afterwards in the Blackhall Gaels GAA Hall in Batterstown. All welcome!
Friday Exposition
Every Friday we hold exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in St. Patrick’s Church from 10.00am until 1.00pm and from 4.00pm until 9.00pm. More often than not however, our morning worship is interrupted on account of funerals, weddings and other functions being held in St. Patrick’s Church in the mornings and afternoons. As of late, we have been postponing the morning part of the exposition when there are weddings in the afternoon. This is due to florists and others arriving early to prepare the church and on occasion some have shown little regard for the Blessed Sacrament (One florist even moved the monstrance to the side while he was arranging his flowers on the altar). We know that such postponement has caused upset for regular worshippers and some have stopped attending in the morning.
It is therefore proposed that we end Friday morning exposition altogether in St. Patrick’s Church and concentrate on the evening time from 4.00pm to 9.00pm. We would like to hear people’s opinions on this. As it is, more people are required to keep watch and pray during these hours of exposition. Please let us know what you think.
Ossory Diocesan Guide
The annual Ossory diocesan Guide which details contact numbers for all of the parishes, priests and organisations in the Diocese of Ossory and much more is available to buy from the Parish Office. Cost €5.00.
Band Session
St. Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band presents a 2 Band Session in the Set Theatre on Friday 27th May featuring The Marble City Sounds and The Uptown Band plus Disco with guest artiste Eugene Dewberry. All this for just €5. A great night is guaranteed for all.
Envelope Collection
Last weekend’s envelope collection: €1,350.00. Thank you. It is our intention to publish the relevant figure each week - because of an oversight we missed a number of weeks. Sorry!
Invest in the Future Stars
Get your party suit ready because James Stephen’s Juvenile Committee is organising a fund raising event in the club for all members, players, parents and supporters to come along to a 70’s/80’s themed night in the clubrooms on Friday, 17th June. This event will help raise much needed funds to invest in our juvenile/youth structures to continue to grow and strengthen the club. Tickets: €5.00 (Disco by DJ Benny, Finger food, Spot prizes galore). Contact any juvenile coach or club selector/officer to purchase a ticket(s).
Social Networking
Connect to the James Stephens facebook page which gives daily updates on all fixtures, results, social events and club development by logging onto www.facebook.com/villagegaa or connect to the twitter page by logging onto www.twitter.com/VillageGAA
Carers’ Association
Support Group meetings will now be held monthly. The last Thursday of every month starting Thursday, 26th May. Mass in Loughboy at 10.30am, meeting in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 11.00am. We look forward to seeing you there
Thoughts for Life
The greatest handicap is FEAR
The best day is TODAY
The easiest thing to do is FIND FAULT
Most useless asset is PRIDE
The greatest mistake is GIVING UP
The greatest stumbling block is EGOTISM
The greatest comfort is WORK WELL DONE
The most disagreeable person is THE COMPLAINER
The worst bankruptcy is LOSS OF ENTHUSIASM
The greatest need is COMMON SENSE
The meanest feeling is REGRET ANOTHER'S SUCCESS
The best gift is FORGIVENESS
The greatest moment is DEATH
The greatest knowledge is GOD
The greatest thing in the world is LOVE!
Foroige
The regional youth officer with Foroige in Kilkenny City is trying to set up one or two volunteer Foroige youth clubs. There is a lot of interest among young people but they need volunteers to run them. If you are interested please contact mailyn.venn@foroige.ie
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Fourth Sunday of Easter, Vocations Sunday, 15th May 2011
Like a Shepherd
My grandfather was a farmer in Malin Head in Co. Donegal. As a child I loved to watch him round up the sheep in the evenings, using a variety of whistling techniques to guide his sheepdog, Jack, to steer the flock safely into the pen for the night. It was always a smooth transition, at a quiet time of the evening, with dog and flock well versed in the ins and outs of the process. It is this experience that I recall when I hear this parable. And it was the local shepherding practices of the time that Jesus turned to in an attempt to explain who he is. The shepherd in Jesus’ parable calls his sheep one by one to lead them into the safely of the sheepfold, as was the practice in Palestine at the time, and the sheep follow their shepherd because they know his voice. Since the Pharisees, to whom Jesus is speaking, don’t get it, he explains the parable; he is the gate of the sheepfold, and anyone who enters through him will be safe and will be sure of finding pasture. Sheep and shepherd imagery is common in both Old and New Testament, and today’s psalm is probably the most recognisable passage. ‘The Lord is my shepherd … fresh and green are the pastures where he gives me repose. Near restful waters he leads me to revive my drooping spirit.’ A common practice and a popular image provide the perfect springboard for an examination of who Jesus is and what he offers to those who follow him: safety, pasture and life.
Triona Doherty.
First Holy Communion
Congratulations to all involved with this year’s First Holy Communion Class at St. John of God School. A total of 46 girls received the Eucharist for the first time on Saturday. Congratulations also to the 19 boys and girls from the Kilkenny School Project who receive their First Holy Communion today Sunday.
Well done and thanks to the parents, guardians, Godparents, teachers, programme coordinators and others who were involved in the preparation of the children. Your role was invaluable in handing on the faith to the next generation.
Gaelscoil Confirmation
Comhgáirdeachas do pháistí Ghaelscoil Osraí a chuaigh faoi lámh an Easpaig inné. Congratulations to the 107 children of Rang a 5 and 6 in Gaelscoil Osraí who were confirmed in St. Mary’s Cathedral yesterday by Bishop Seamus Freeman SAC and thanks to their teachers Múinteoir Brian, Sylvia, Cáit and Tanya for all their hard work in the preparations in the last few months.
Questions People Ask
Q. A priest in our parish makes me angry with is sermons. His gospel seems to be the power of positive thinking and nothing else. Worry is bad for you, trust in God! Now I have real worries in my business, staff to pay, bills to meet, and a son who is a real cause for concern. Don’t worry! Can you understand what I am feeling?
A. Positive thinking is helpful but not when it is blind to painful reality. A simplistic solution to a complex problem rarely works. One of the great strengths of Christianity comes from the contemplation of the cross. Jesus did not hide from suffering, nor did he ask his followers to do so. He openly confessed how his soul was troubled when thinking of the hour he was to face. He sweated blood in Gethsemane. Jesus did not remove suffering but he showed that he is with us there in solidarity and compassion.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Vocations in the Local Church
This Sunday, 15th May 2011, is the Fourth Sunday of Easter. It is also World Day of Prayer for Vocations. On this Sunday we are asked to pray for an increase in vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and consecrated life, especially for our diocese, that God will raise up good shepherds in our midst.
If you think God is calling you to serve the Church as a priest in the Diocese of Ossory contact: Fr. Willie Purcell at the Diocesan Vocations Office, St. Kieran’s College, Kilkenny. Telephone 056 777 0261 or 087 628 6858 or email ossoryvocdir@gmail.com
Pray For Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Margaret (Peggy) Lawlor, Drakelands Middle. Requiem mass Sunday 2pm St. Mary’s Cathedral. Internment in Foulkstown.
Anniversaries: Anthona Burke (Birthday Remembrance Sat 6.15), Tom & Oliver Kennedy (Sun 9.30), Paddy O’Connell (Sun 10.00), Patricia Murphy (Sun 10.30), Jim Lanigan (Sun 11.00), Mary Deegan (Sun 12.00), John Coppinger (Sun 12.30), Henry, Paddy & Jane Glynn (Tues10.30), Molly Fitzgerald, John Doheny, Joe Kelly, Martin Browne, Catherine Coyne, Moira Bergin, Agnes & Frann Brennan, Liam Meehan, Sally Goulding, Tom & Oliver Kennedy, Robert Kenny, Julia Doheny.
Intentions for next weekend: Michael Maher (Sat 6.15), Joe Davy (Sat 7.00), Ciaran Flood (Sun 9.30), Jack Carroll (Sun 10.00), Roy Barry (Months Mind Sun 10.30), Nelly Garrehy (Sun 11.00), Mary Deegan (Sun 12.00), Jimmy O’Neill (Months Mind, Sun 12.30).
Petitions to Lourdes
A number of young people from our parish are travelling to Lourdes as volunteers with the Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage. One of the young people has volunteered to take our parishioners’ petitions to Our Lady’s Shrine. Please place your petition in the box provided in the sanctuary area of St. Patrick’s Church. These will be taken to Lourdes and placed at the grotto on 22nd May.
The Irish Catholic
The Irish Catholic is available to buy at the sacristies in all our churches. This is a weekly Catholic newspaper bringing us up-to-date news and information about our Church. Cost €1.30.
The Servant at the Supper
On Wednesday of this week St. Fiacre’s Church hosts The Servant at the Supper - a play by retired Canadian Catholic School Principal, Eleanor Glenn. Costumed as the ‘servant girl’ who baked the bread and served the wine at the Last Supper, Eleanor takes her audience with her as she moves on to witness the crucifixion, the women returning to tell Peter of Christ’s resurrection, the coming of the Holy Spirit and a visit of St. Paul.
This is a 40 minute creative, innovative experience of evangelization. It is a Catholic, scripture-based, one woman performance. Using over 20 direct Bible quotations and inspired by the Holy Spirit, Eleanor Glenn takes her audience into the very heart of the Upper Room to experience first-hand the final days of Christ and our call in this 21st century to be His modern day messengers.
Venue: Wednesday, 18th May at St. Fiacre’s Church, Kilkenny at 8.00pm. Admission: Donation of €5 requested. Contact Fr. Martin Tobin on 086 240 1278 for further information.
The play is on a nation-wide tour in preparation for next year’s International Eucharistic Congress. It will be presented at Borris-in-Ossory on 17th May.
Cake & Bric-a-brac Sale
Loreto Mega Cake Sale and Bric-a-brac Sale will be held on Saturday, 21st May from 12.00 noon to 3.00pm at the Loreto Secondary School. You can hire a table for €20 to sell your own bric-a-brac and keep the profits!
Loughboy Library
Celebrating Older Age - as part of the Bealtaine Festival Loughboy Library will host a Scrabble afternoon for over 55s on Wednesday, 25th May at 2.00pm. Please ring 779 4176 to book your board.
Free Computer classes are available through Loughboy Library - please call in for more information. We open at 10.00am, Tuesday - Friday.
Fundraising Concert
The Kilkenny Medjugorje Youth Group is holding a Fundraising Concert in The Watergate Theatre on Thursday, 19th May at 8.00pm. The concert will feature Na Fianna, Kilkenny Musical Society, Alan Hayes and many local artistes. Admission €10.00. Raffle on the evening.
Invest in Future Stars
Get your party suit ready because James Stephen’s juvenile committee is organising a fund raising event in the club for ALL members, players, parents and supporters of the club. Come along to a 70s/80s themed night in the clubrooms on Friday, 17th June 2011. This event will help raise much needed funds to invest in our juvenile/youth structures to continue to grow and strengthen the club. Tickets cost €5.00 each. Disco by DJ: Benny. Finger food, spot prizes galore. Contact any juvenile coach or club selector/officer to purchase a ticket. (Tony Scanlon @ 087 262 2321)
Social Networking
Connect to the James Stephen’s Facebook page which gives daily updates on all fixtures, results, social events and club development by logging onto www.facebook.com/villagegaa. You can also connect to the Club’s Twitter page by logging onto www.twitter.com/VillageGAA
Loughboy Women’s Group
Cook it Programme: This 6 week programme aims to teach people how to cook and eat healthily and on budget. You will learn how to cook healthy and filling meals for you and all the family. Classes commence on Monday, 16th May at 10.00am in Archer Street Centre, Loughboy. Contact Connie on 086 771 8040 (Mon - Wed) for more information or if you are interested in joining the class
Foroige
The regional youth officer with Foroige in Kilkenny City is trying to set up one or two volunteer Foroige youth clubs. There is a lot of interest among young people but they need volunteers to run them. If you are interested please contact mailyn.venn@foroige.ie
Finally
A mother and her young son arrived at church for mass one evening. The little lad, spying the curate kneeling before the altar enquired of his mother what was the priest doing. ‘He’s kneeling there before mass to ask God to help him preach his sermon,’ explained his mother. ‘Why doesn’t he then?’ asked the young boy.
My grandfather was a farmer in Malin Head in Co. Donegal. As a child I loved to watch him round up the sheep in the evenings, using a variety of whistling techniques to guide his sheepdog, Jack, to steer the flock safely into the pen for the night. It was always a smooth transition, at a quiet time of the evening, with dog and flock well versed in the ins and outs of the process. It is this experience that I recall when I hear this parable. And it was the local shepherding practices of the time that Jesus turned to in an attempt to explain who he is. The shepherd in Jesus’ parable calls his sheep one by one to lead them into the safely of the sheepfold, as was the practice in Palestine at the time, and the sheep follow their shepherd because they know his voice. Since the Pharisees, to whom Jesus is speaking, don’t get it, he explains the parable; he is the gate of the sheepfold, and anyone who enters through him will be safe and will be sure of finding pasture. Sheep and shepherd imagery is common in both Old and New Testament, and today’s psalm is probably the most recognisable passage. ‘The Lord is my shepherd … fresh and green are the pastures where he gives me repose. Near restful waters he leads me to revive my drooping spirit.’ A common practice and a popular image provide the perfect springboard for an examination of who Jesus is and what he offers to those who follow him: safety, pasture and life.
Triona Doherty.
First Holy Communion
Congratulations to all involved with this year’s First Holy Communion Class at St. John of God School. A total of 46 girls received the Eucharist for the first time on Saturday. Congratulations also to the 19 boys and girls from the Kilkenny School Project who receive their First Holy Communion today Sunday.
Well done and thanks to the parents, guardians, Godparents, teachers, programme coordinators and others who were involved in the preparation of the children. Your role was invaluable in handing on the faith to the next generation.
Gaelscoil Confirmation
Comhgáirdeachas do pháistí Ghaelscoil Osraí a chuaigh faoi lámh an Easpaig inné. Congratulations to the 107 children of Rang a 5 and 6 in Gaelscoil Osraí who were confirmed in St. Mary’s Cathedral yesterday by Bishop Seamus Freeman SAC and thanks to their teachers Múinteoir Brian, Sylvia, Cáit and Tanya for all their hard work in the preparations in the last few months.
Questions People Ask
Q. A priest in our parish makes me angry with is sermons. His gospel seems to be the power of positive thinking and nothing else. Worry is bad for you, trust in God! Now I have real worries in my business, staff to pay, bills to meet, and a son who is a real cause for concern. Don’t worry! Can you understand what I am feeling?
A. Positive thinking is helpful but not when it is blind to painful reality. A simplistic solution to a complex problem rarely works. One of the great strengths of Christianity comes from the contemplation of the cross. Jesus did not hide from suffering, nor did he ask his followers to do so. He openly confessed how his soul was troubled when thinking of the hour he was to face. He sweated blood in Gethsemane. Jesus did not remove suffering but he showed that he is with us there in solidarity and compassion.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Vocations in the Local Church
This Sunday, 15th May 2011, is the Fourth Sunday of Easter. It is also World Day of Prayer for Vocations. On this Sunday we are asked to pray for an increase in vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and consecrated life, especially for our diocese, that God will raise up good shepherds in our midst.
If you think God is calling you to serve the Church as a priest in the Diocese of Ossory contact: Fr. Willie Purcell at the Diocesan Vocations Office, St. Kieran’s College, Kilkenny. Telephone 056 777 0261 or 087 628 6858 or email ossoryvocdir@gmail.com
Pray For Our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Margaret (Peggy) Lawlor, Drakelands Middle. Requiem mass Sunday 2pm St. Mary’s Cathedral. Internment in Foulkstown.
Anniversaries: Anthona Burke (Birthday Remembrance Sat 6.15), Tom & Oliver Kennedy (Sun 9.30), Paddy O’Connell (Sun 10.00), Patricia Murphy (Sun 10.30), Jim Lanigan (Sun 11.00), Mary Deegan (Sun 12.00), John Coppinger (Sun 12.30), Henry, Paddy & Jane Glynn (Tues10.30), Molly Fitzgerald, John Doheny, Joe Kelly, Martin Browne, Catherine Coyne, Moira Bergin, Agnes & Frann Brennan, Liam Meehan, Sally Goulding, Tom & Oliver Kennedy, Robert Kenny, Julia Doheny.
Intentions for next weekend: Michael Maher (Sat 6.15), Joe Davy (Sat 7.00), Ciaran Flood (Sun 9.30), Jack Carroll (Sun 10.00), Roy Barry (Months Mind Sun 10.30), Nelly Garrehy (Sun 11.00), Mary Deegan (Sun 12.00), Jimmy O’Neill (Months Mind, Sun 12.30).
Petitions to Lourdes
A number of young people from our parish are travelling to Lourdes as volunteers with the Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage. One of the young people has volunteered to take our parishioners’ petitions to Our Lady’s Shrine. Please place your petition in the box provided in the sanctuary area of St. Patrick’s Church. These will be taken to Lourdes and placed at the grotto on 22nd May.
The Irish Catholic
The Irish Catholic is available to buy at the sacristies in all our churches. This is a weekly Catholic newspaper bringing us up-to-date news and information about our Church. Cost €1.30.
The Servant at the Supper
On Wednesday of this week St. Fiacre’s Church hosts The Servant at the Supper - a play by retired Canadian Catholic School Principal, Eleanor Glenn. Costumed as the ‘servant girl’ who baked the bread and served the wine at the Last Supper, Eleanor takes her audience with her as she moves on to witness the crucifixion, the women returning to tell Peter of Christ’s resurrection, the coming of the Holy Spirit and a visit of St. Paul.
This is a 40 minute creative, innovative experience of evangelization. It is a Catholic, scripture-based, one woman performance. Using over 20 direct Bible quotations and inspired by the Holy Spirit, Eleanor Glenn takes her audience into the very heart of the Upper Room to experience first-hand the final days of Christ and our call in this 21st century to be His modern day messengers.
Venue: Wednesday, 18th May at St. Fiacre’s Church, Kilkenny at 8.00pm. Admission: Donation of €5 requested. Contact Fr. Martin Tobin on 086 240 1278 for further information.
The play is on a nation-wide tour in preparation for next year’s International Eucharistic Congress. It will be presented at Borris-in-Ossory on 17th May.
Cake & Bric-a-brac Sale
Loreto Mega Cake Sale and Bric-a-brac Sale will be held on Saturday, 21st May from 12.00 noon to 3.00pm at the Loreto Secondary School. You can hire a table for €20 to sell your own bric-a-brac and keep the profits!
Loughboy Library
Celebrating Older Age - as part of the Bealtaine Festival Loughboy Library will host a Scrabble afternoon for over 55s on Wednesday, 25th May at 2.00pm. Please ring 779 4176 to book your board.
Free Computer classes are available through Loughboy Library - please call in for more information. We open at 10.00am, Tuesday - Friday.
Fundraising Concert
The Kilkenny Medjugorje Youth Group is holding a Fundraising Concert in The Watergate Theatre on Thursday, 19th May at 8.00pm. The concert will feature Na Fianna, Kilkenny Musical Society, Alan Hayes and many local artistes. Admission €10.00. Raffle on the evening.
Invest in Future Stars
Get your party suit ready because James Stephen’s juvenile committee is organising a fund raising event in the club for ALL members, players, parents and supporters of the club. Come along to a 70s/80s themed night in the clubrooms on Friday, 17th June 2011. This event will help raise much needed funds to invest in our juvenile/youth structures to continue to grow and strengthen the club. Tickets cost €5.00 each. Disco by DJ: Benny. Finger food, spot prizes galore. Contact any juvenile coach or club selector/officer to purchase a ticket. (Tony Scanlon @ 087 262 2321)
Social Networking
Connect to the James Stephen’s Facebook page which gives daily updates on all fixtures, results, social events and club development by logging onto www.facebook.com/villagegaa. You can also connect to the Club’s Twitter page by logging onto www.twitter.com/VillageGAA
Loughboy Women’s Group
Cook it Programme: This 6 week programme aims to teach people how to cook and eat healthily and on budget. You will learn how to cook healthy and filling meals for you and all the family. Classes commence on Monday, 16th May at 10.00am in Archer Street Centre, Loughboy. Contact Connie on 086 771 8040 (Mon - Wed) for more information or if you are interested in joining the class
Foroige
The regional youth officer with Foroige in Kilkenny City is trying to set up one or two volunteer Foroige youth clubs. There is a lot of interest among young people but they need volunteers to run them. If you are interested please contact mailyn.venn@foroige.ie
Finally
A mother and her young son arrived at church for mass one evening. The little lad, spying the curate kneeling before the altar enquired of his mother what was the priest doing. ‘He’s kneeling there before mass to ask God to help him preach his sermon,’ explained his mother. ‘Why doesn’t he then?’ asked the young boy.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Third Sunday of Easter, 8th May 2011
Gioraíonn Beirt Bóthar
Gioraíonn beirt bóthar - the Irish proverb roughly translates as ‘two people shorten the road for each other’. The presence and company of others makes all the difference on a journey. Anyone who has climbed Croagh Patrick, walked the Camino in Spain or gone backpacking abroad will know the importance of encounters with fellow travellers. Storytelling and shared meals are the bits and pieces that forge friendships along the way.
It is only a couple of days since Jesus was crucified. We’re told Emmaus is around seven miles from Jerusalem - a couple of hours’ walk. I imagine that the two disciples, Cleopas and his friend, were relieved to get away from Jerusalem, to get out of the city and have time for a chat about all that had happened. When this ‘stranger’ falls into step with them, their disbelief that he has not heard about the dramatic days leading up to Jesus’ death, and the reports of the empty tomb, shows just how fresh the events are in their minds. But this meeting is no ordinary encounter. While the disciples believe they are speaking with a learned stranger, it is not until they invite him to stay with them and he breaks bread with them that they recognise Jesus. Thinking back it now makes sense to them; ‘Did not our hearts burn within us as he talked to us on the road and explained the scriptures to us?’ they wonder, and they rush back to Jerusalem to share their story.
When was the last time your heart burned within you?
Triona Doherty
First Holy Communion
Congratulations to the boys of St. Patrick’s De La Salle school who received the Eucharist for the first time on Saturday. We congratulate you and are delighted to welcome you as members of our Eucharistic Community.
Well done and thanks to the parents, guardians, Godparents, teachers, programme coordinators and others who were involved in the preparation of the children. Your role was invaluable in handing on the faith to the next generation.
Questions People Ask
Q. My faith has gone very dead. Scandals in the Church haven’t helped but I don’t lay all the blame there. Missing Mass no longer bothers me like it would have years ago. Any prayers I say are mechanical. Have you any suggestions?
A. The world we live in has gone very secular and it is all too easy to drift with the flow. One has to make very deliberate efforts today to nurture faith. Just as our diet has a huge effect on our physical health, our mental diet dictates the wellbeing of our mind and soul. Drop into a church more often to adore the Lord. Read the scriptures as a source of developing a personal listen-and-talk relationship with God. Break out of self-centeredness by offering your services to a charitable or sporting organisation. There are many Retreat Centres where you might avail of a helpful programme. Above all, pray for the gift of a lively faith.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Marian O’Sullivan, 20 Dukesmeadows Avenue. Helen Renehan, Waterford Road (former principal of Loreto Secondary School).
Anniversaries: Gordon Deevy (Months Mind Sat 6.15), Fintan Brennan (Sat 7.00), Marie Coyne (Months Mind Sun 9.30), Lar Doyle (Sun 10.00), Margaret Glynn (Months Mind Sun 10.30), Frank Cantwell (Months Mind Sun 11.00), Billy O’Brien (Sun 12.00), Gerry Carolan (Sun 12.30), Martin Ryan (Wed 10.30), Michael Deegan (Thurs 10.30), Paddy Dorney, Francis McNulty, James Downey, Nicholas Downey, James Thornton, Patrick O’Neill, Mary Carroll, Catherine (Kit) Grace, Billy & Paddy Cleere, Sean & Kitty Ryan.
Intentions for next weekend: Anthona Burke (Birthday Remembrance Sat 6.15), Paddy O’Connell (Sun 10.00), Patricia Murphy (Sun 10.30), Jim Lanigan (Sun 11.00), Mary Deegan (Sun 12.00), John Coppinger (Sun 12.30).
Divine Mercy
There will be an hour of prayer and adoration in honour of divine mercy in the Capuchin Friary Church on Sunday, 8th May at 3.00pm.
Brainwave
The Irish Epilepsy Association hold their annual church gate collection this weekend. Your support is appreciated .
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place on Friday, 13th May in the Parish Centre immediately after the 10.30am Mass. The society prays for and supports vocations to the priesthood and religious life. All are welcome.
Receiving Holy Communion
Last weekend, an adult came forward to receive Holy Communion at one of our Masses. As she took the host in her hand, she clasped it tight and took it to the back of the church without consuming it. This is something we have noticed children doing in the past and we keep a close watch as they may not know any better, but an adult’s doing this is a different matter. We hope this person consumed the host before she left the church otherwise it would be more serious.
As most people will know, the Eucharist (Holy Communion) is our most revered and precious sacrament. It is the actual Body and Blood of Jesus our Lord and as such it demands our utmost reverence, first, in being prepared to receive Jesus spiritually and mentally, and then in how we receive the host.
Once received reverently into the hand, the host must be consumed immediately at the altar. It must not be brought back to one’s seat and must never be removed from the church building. Bringing the host back to one’s seat increases the risk of particles breaking away and getting trampled upon. It also gives rise to the question of whether or not the person fully understands what they are doing in receiving Holy Communion.
We ask parishioners to be diligent and keep a lookout for children or adults who are not consuming the host at the altar. Bring this to the attention of one of the priests and they will follow up on the matter.
Parish Centre Shop
Our parish shop is proving to be a great success with a wide variety of religious goods on sale. There are many items available for Confirmations and First Holy Communions and items can usually be ordered. Feel free to have a look and see.
Anniversaries
We strive to include all anniversaries each week as requested by people but sometimes we make mistakes and errors/omissions occur. If we miss an anniversary that you submitted, please let us know and we will include it the following week. If you have booked a particular Mass, it is always good practice to remind the priest before Mass in case there are omissions. Please have names for inclusion into the office by Friday at the very latest, after this we cannot guarantee inclusion. Likewise, leaving anniversaries on altars, under sacristy doors etc can lead to them getting lost and causing upset. It is better to telephone, email, post or drop them into the Parish Office.
Loughboy Library
The library will host a Creative Writing Workshop for Teenagers with popular Irish author Claire Hennessy on next Saturday, 14th May. This is a free event and will take place from 11.00am to 4.00pm. Please book at 779 4977 or email brenda.ward@kilkennylibrary.ie
Toddle Hour continues on Thursdays at 11.30am. All are welcome to come along for great stories, games and paper-craft fun. Library membership is free for children.
Do This in Memory
This weekend we welcome in a special way the young people attending schools in our parish who are preparing for their first Holy Communion. We also welcome family members who accompany them. The De La Salle boys will already have received the Eucharist by this time and the big event for the others is drawing closer and closer. Thanks to the coordinators who have facilitated this programme this year.
The Servant at the Supper
Preparing for the 2012 Eucharistic Congress the Diocese of Ossory will host Eleanor Glenn a retired Canadian Catholic Elementary School Principal in the play The Servant at the Supper. Costumed as the ‘servant girl’ who baked the bread and served the wine at the Last Supper, Eleanor takes her audiences with her as she moves on to witness the crucifixion, the women returning to tell Peter of Christ’s Resurrection, the coming of the Holy Spirit and a visit of St. Paul.
This is a 40 minute creative, innovative experience of evangelization. It is a Catholic, scripture-based, one woman performance. Using over 20 direct Bible quotations and inspired by the Holy Spirit, Eleanor Glenn takes her audience into the very heart of the Upper Room to experience first-hand the final days of Christ and our call in this 21st century to be His modern day messengers. Venue: Wednesday, 18th May at St. Fiacre’s Church Kilkenny at 8.00pm. Admission: Donation of €5 requested. Contact Fr. Martin Tobin on 086 240 1278 for further information. The play will also be presented at Borris-in-Ossory on 17th May.
Stars for Bars
Kilkenny Final of Stars for Bars is being held in The Kilford Arms Ballroom on Friday 13th May at 8.00pm. Doors will open at 7.30pm.
Tickets cost €10. Proceeds in Aid of O’Neill Centre, Kilkenny.
Kilkenny Flower Club
Kilkenny Flower Club will meet in Butler House next Thursday, 12th of May at 8.00pm. Mary Egan from Wexford will give a talk on gardening and there will also be a Flower Quiz. Non members will be most welcome.
The Risen Lord is Watching
Up at the head table in the cafeteria, one of the nuns had placed a big bowl of bright red, fresh, juicy apples. Beside the bowl, she placed a note which read, “Take only one. Remember, Jesus is watching.” At the other end of the table was a bowl full of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, still warm from the oven. Beside the bowl was a little note scrawled in a child's handwriting which read, “Take all you want. Jesus is watching the apples!”
Gioraíonn beirt bóthar - the Irish proverb roughly translates as ‘two people shorten the road for each other’. The presence and company of others makes all the difference on a journey. Anyone who has climbed Croagh Patrick, walked the Camino in Spain or gone backpacking abroad will know the importance of encounters with fellow travellers. Storytelling and shared meals are the bits and pieces that forge friendships along the way.
It is only a couple of days since Jesus was crucified. We’re told Emmaus is around seven miles from Jerusalem - a couple of hours’ walk. I imagine that the two disciples, Cleopas and his friend, were relieved to get away from Jerusalem, to get out of the city and have time for a chat about all that had happened. When this ‘stranger’ falls into step with them, their disbelief that he has not heard about the dramatic days leading up to Jesus’ death, and the reports of the empty tomb, shows just how fresh the events are in their minds. But this meeting is no ordinary encounter. While the disciples believe they are speaking with a learned stranger, it is not until they invite him to stay with them and he breaks bread with them that they recognise Jesus. Thinking back it now makes sense to them; ‘Did not our hearts burn within us as he talked to us on the road and explained the scriptures to us?’ they wonder, and they rush back to Jerusalem to share their story.
When was the last time your heart burned within you?
Triona Doherty
First Holy Communion
Congratulations to the boys of St. Patrick’s De La Salle school who received the Eucharist for the first time on Saturday. We congratulate you and are delighted to welcome you as members of our Eucharistic Community.
Well done and thanks to the parents, guardians, Godparents, teachers, programme coordinators and others who were involved in the preparation of the children. Your role was invaluable in handing on the faith to the next generation.
Questions People Ask
Q. My faith has gone very dead. Scandals in the Church haven’t helped but I don’t lay all the blame there. Missing Mass no longer bothers me like it would have years ago. Any prayers I say are mechanical. Have you any suggestions?
A. The world we live in has gone very secular and it is all too easy to drift with the flow. One has to make very deliberate efforts today to nurture faith. Just as our diet has a huge effect on our physical health, our mental diet dictates the wellbeing of our mind and soul. Drop into a church more often to adore the Lord. Read the scriptures as a source of developing a personal listen-and-talk relationship with God. Break out of self-centeredness by offering your services to a charitable or sporting organisation. There are many Retreat Centres where you might avail of a helpful programme. Above all, pray for the gift of a lively faith.
Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Marian O’Sullivan, 20 Dukesmeadows Avenue. Helen Renehan, Waterford Road (former principal of Loreto Secondary School).
Anniversaries: Gordon Deevy (Months Mind Sat 6.15), Fintan Brennan (Sat 7.00), Marie Coyne (Months Mind Sun 9.30), Lar Doyle (Sun 10.00), Margaret Glynn (Months Mind Sun 10.30), Frank Cantwell (Months Mind Sun 11.00), Billy O’Brien (Sun 12.00), Gerry Carolan (Sun 12.30), Martin Ryan (Wed 10.30), Michael Deegan (Thurs 10.30), Paddy Dorney, Francis McNulty, James Downey, Nicholas Downey, James Thornton, Patrick O’Neill, Mary Carroll, Catherine (Kit) Grace, Billy & Paddy Cleere, Sean & Kitty Ryan.
Intentions for next weekend: Anthona Burke (Birthday Remembrance Sat 6.15), Paddy O’Connell (Sun 10.00), Patricia Murphy (Sun 10.30), Jim Lanigan (Sun 11.00), Mary Deegan (Sun 12.00), John Coppinger (Sun 12.30).
Divine Mercy
There will be an hour of prayer and adoration in honour of divine mercy in the Capuchin Friary Church on Sunday, 8th May at 3.00pm.
Brainwave
The Irish Epilepsy Association hold their annual church gate collection this weekend. Your support is appreciated .
St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly meeting of St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place on Friday, 13th May in the Parish Centre immediately after the 10.30am Mass. The society prays for and supports vocations to the priesthood and religious life. All are welcome.
Receiving Holy Communion
Last weekend, an adult came forward to receive Holy Communion at one of our Masses. As she took the host in her hand, she clasped it tight and took it to the back of the church without consuming it. This is something we have noticed children doing in the past and we keep a close watch as they may not know any better, but an adult’s doing this is a different matter. We hope this person consumed the host before she left the church otherwise it would be more serious.
As most people will know, the Eucharist (Holy Communion) is our most revered and precious sacrament. It is the actual Body and Blood of Jesus our Lord and as such it demands our utmost reverence, first, in being prepared to receive Jesus spiritually and mentally, and then in how we receive the host.
Once received reverently into the hand, the host must be consumed immediately at the altar. It must not be brought back to one’s seat and must never be removed from the church building. Bringing the host back to one’s seat increases the risk of particles breaking away and getting trampled upon. It also gives rise to the question of whether or not the person fully understands what they are doing in receiving Holy Communion.
We ask parishioners to be diligent and keep a lookout for children or adults who are not consuming the host at the altar. Bring this to the attention of one of the priests and they will follow up on the matter.
Parish Centre Shop
Our parish shop is proving to be a great success with a wide variety of religious goods on sale. There are many items available for Confirmations and First Holy Communions and items can usually be ordered. Feel free to have a look and see.
Anniversaries
We strive to include all anniversaries each week as requested by people but sometimes we make mistakes and errors/omissions occur. If we miss an anniversary that you submitted, please let us know and we will include it the following week. If you have booked a particular Mass, it is always good practice to remind the priest before Mass in case there are omissions. Please have names for inclusion into the office by Friday at the very latest, after this we cannot guarantee inclusion. Likewise, leaving anniversaries on altars, under sacristy doors etc can lead to them getting lost and causing upset. It is better to telephone, email, post or drop them into the Parish Office.
Loughboy Library
The library will host a Creative Writing Workshop for Teenagers with popular Irish author Claire Hennessy on next Saturday, 14th May. This is a free event and will take place from 11.00am to 4.00pm. Please book at 779 4977 or email brenda.ward@kilkennylibrary.ie
Toddle Hour continues on Thursdays at 11.30am. All are welcome to come along for great stories, games and paper-craft fun. Library membership is free for children.
Do This in Memory
This weekend we welcome in a special way the young people attending schools in our parish who are preparing for their first Holy Communion. We also welcome family members who accompany them. The De La Salle boys will already have received the Eucharist by this time and the big event for the others is drawing closer and closer. Thanks to the coordinators who have facilitated this programme this year.
The Servant at the Supper
Preparing for the 2012 Eucharistic Congress the Diocese of Ossory will host Eleanor Glenn a retired Canadian Catholic Elementary School Principal in the play The Servant at the Supper. Costumed as the ‘servant girl’ who baked the bread and served the wine at the Last Supper, Eleanor takes her audiences with her as she moves on to witness the crucifixion, the women returning to tell Peter of Christ’s Resurrection, the coming of the Holy Spirit and a visit of St. Paul.
This is a 40 minute creative, innovative experience of evangelization. It is a Catholic, scripture-based, one woman performance. Using over 20 direct Bible quotations and inspired by the Holy Spirit, Eleanor Glenn takes her audience into the very heart of the Upper Room to experience first-hand the final days of Christ and our call in this 21st century to be His modern day messengers. Venue: Wednesday, 18th May at St. Fiacre’s Church Kilkenny at 8.00pm. Admission: Donation of €5 requested. Contact Fr. Martin Tobin on 086 240 1278 for further information. The play will also be presented at Borris-in-Ossory on 17th May.
Stars for Bars
Kilkenny Final of Stars for Bars is being held in The Kilford Arms Ballroom on Friday 13th May at 8.00pm. Doors will open at 7.30pm.
Tickets cost €10. Proceeds in Aid of O’Neill Centre, Kilkenny.
Kilkenny Flower Club
Kilkenny Flower Club will meet in Butler House next Thursday, 12th of May at 8.00pm. Mary Egan from Wexford will give a talk on gardening and there will also be a Flower Quiz. Non members will be most welcome.
The Risen Lord is Watching
Up at the head table in the cafeteria, one of the nuns had placed a big bowl of bright red, fresh, juicy apples. Beside the bowl, she placed a note which read, “Take only one. Remember, Jesus is watching.” At the other end of the table was a bowl full of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, still warm from the oven. Beside the bowl was a little note scrawled in a child's handwriting which read, “Take all you want. Jesus is watching the apples!”
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