26th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Lip Service

Which is better (or worse): to make a promise to do something and not keep it, or to say no but then change your mind and do as you were asked? What point is Jesus making here? After all, both sons start out saying one thing and end up doing the opposite. At first glance neither of them come across as the most reliable of characters; I doubt many employers would hire them on the basis of this performance. One clue is to note who is Jesus is talking to – his parables are always intriguing when the chief priests and the elders are in the audience. He seems to delight in upsetting the complacency the religious people – imagine telling the chief priests that the tax collectors and prostitutes, considered the greatest sinners of the time, would get to heaven before them. Would our own religious leaders like to be told such a thing? Would you? Outwardly the religious authorities of Jesus’ time had all the appearances of being ‘good’ – they were pious and dutiful and were quite confident of their standing before God. They are like the first son who says the right thing and makes grand promises, putting on a good outward show. But their actions did not always match. Jesus is very good at turning preconceptions upside down. It is the sinner who truly repents, rather than the outwardly pious person whose actions do not match their declarations, who will be the first to make their way into the kingdom of God. Jesus wants us to follow through with our promises. Discipleship is not about lip service. As with many other areas of life, actions speak louder than words.

Tríona Doherty

Be still and know that I am God

Christian Meditation Group resumes at Peace in Christ Retreat House n Wed  September 28th at 4pm.  All are welcome to the weekly meeting each Wednesday ay 4pm. 

Scripture Course Cancelled

Sr. De Lourdes in unavailable to provide the usual scripture course this term.  Sorry for any inconvenience caused.

Scripture Reflection Group

Each Monday evening at 7.30 a small group meet in the St. John of God House on College Road. The Gospel for the Mass on the following Sunday is explored and reflected upon. The meeting lasts for approximately an hour after which there is a cup of tea. Anyone interested can contact Sr. Helen Maher at 087 648 0131.

Pray for our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Moira Cantwell, 38 Cedarwood Avenue.  Requiem Mass at St. Fiacre’ Church at 12.00noon on Sunday followed by burial at St. Kieran’s Cemetery.  Michael Denieffe, Altamount Park,  Caroline Mooney, Mullinavat. Alice Walsh, Parnell Street. Michael Nolan, Shandon Park. Paul Hanley, Athenry.

Anniversaries: Eugene & Paddy Somers (Sat  6.15), The Byrne Family (Sat 7.00), Fr. John Lennon (Sun 9.30), Maeve, Stephen, Alan & Shane Byrne (Sun 10.00), Dan Gorey (Sun 10.30), Kathleen Kenny (Sun 11.00), Stella O’Rourke (Sun 12.00), John Casey (Sun 12.30), Paddy Wallace (Sat 9.30), William & Elizabeth Tyrrell, Stephen O’Connor, John Walsh, Michael Doyle, Anna Beale, Terry Kelly, Anastasia Buckley, May Hehir, Michael Phelan, Ann & Jack Shortall.

Intentions Next Week: Patsy Ryan (Months Mind, Sat 6.15), Patrick Taylor (Sat 7.00), Fr. John Lennon (Sun 9.30), Thomas Madden (Months Mind, Sun 11.00), Peter Gaule (Sun 12.00), Anne Roche (Sun 12.30).

May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace.  Amen.

Envelope Collection

Thank you for €1,520 contributed in the envelope collection last weekend.  We appreciate your continued generosity in difficult times.

Blessing of Animals

St. Canice’s Parish hosts a blessing of animals to celebrate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi at 3.00pm on Saturday, 1st October in the grounds of St. Canice’s Church.

Questions People Ask

Q. I don’t mean to sound disrespectful, but if Our Lady is regularly transmitting messages to certain visionaries, then why did she not send a warning about a tsunami which caused so many deaths and suffering in Japan? A message would have saved so much suffering.

A. Actually I too wrestle with the same question. In my mind it raises the question of the authenticity of these visions and messages. I have no doubts about Mary’s concern for her children on earth. These messages, as far as I know, never address the great problems of injustice, war, inequality or famine.

Fr Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

On This Day

On this day, 25th September in 1991, the building of St. Fiacre’s Church commenced with a ceremony marking the turning of the first sod by Most Rev. Dr. Forristal, Bishop of Ossory.  There is a collage of photographs in the corridor that links the church to the parish centre showing the progress of the building work from this date to Easter Sunday 1992, when the church was opened and blessed.  Why not drop in and have a look someday - YOUR’S might be one of the faces in the crowd!

Youth Choir

The 12.30  Youth Choir will return on Sunday,  2nd October  with a practice from 12 noon in St. Patrick’s Church.  Anyone interested in joining should be at the church at 12 noon. 

Guitar Practice will return next Tuesday, 27th September from 7.00pm in the Parish Centre.  All welcome

First Holy Communion 2012

The enrolment ceremonies for those who intend making their First Holy Communion next Spring will be held next weekend.  Pupils from Gaelscoil Osraí and Kilkenny School Project are asked to attend 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church while pupils from St. John of God and St. Patrick’s De La Salle School are asked to attend 11.00am Mass at St. Patrick’s Church.  We look forward to seeing you there.

Parish Liturgy Group

The Parish Liturgy Group works with the priests to help prepare the liturgies which are celebrated in our churches. 

Of particular significance this year is the introduction of the new translation of the Mass which becomes official in November.  Also next year the 50th International Eucharistic Congress will be held in Dublin and preparations have to be made for this great event.

If you would like to be involved come along to a meeting in the Parish Centre at 8.00pm on this Thursday, 29th September.  No experience necessary; all you need is a love of the Mass and a willingness to work to make our celebrations more meaningful for all.

St. Joseph's Young Priests Society

The annual general meeting of the Ossory Diocesan St. Joseph’s Priests Society will take place at Villa Maria, Freshford Road beginning with Mass at 7.30pm on Tuesday, 4th October.  All are welcome.

The Good Old Days

Kilkenny’s Age Friendly County Programme with Kilkenny Gospel Choir are hosting ‘The Good Old Days’ on Sunday, 25th September at 7.30pm in the Set Theatre, Langton’s Hotel.  All older people from the city and county are asked to put on their bonnets and moustaches and join in the sing along of all their favourite songs.  Tickets are €5 and booking is essential.  Contact Marianne on 086 196 1035.

Art Classes

Art Classes for beginners and more advanced starting Monday from 2.30pm - 5.00pm in the Parish Centre.  Contact Eamonn 086 334 5144 for more details.

Art Classes

Art Classes for beginners and more advanced. The venue is Bishop Birch Institute, Waterford Road, Kilkenny. Classes are very enjoyable and sociable. For information please contact Sonja on 083 394 1220 or 770 8155 or sonjavrsajkov@gmail.com

Learn to Play Bridge

For further information contact Annette 087 660 1564 or Margaret 087 946 6407.

Loughboy Library

Music Class - including song, dance and play for 0 - 4 years will be held at Loughboy Library on next Thursday, 29th September at 11.30am.

Exhibition Space - is available free to local artists, craft makers, photographers, cartoonists etc.   Please book a place in the 2012 schedule - it’s an ideal way of getting your work noticed.

Old Magazines - donations are gratefully accepted at the library.

Loreto Secondary School Open Night

We invite sixth class girls and their parents/guardians to attend our Open Night which will take place at 6:45pm on the 26th of September.  This will give families the opportunity to take a tour of the school, meet members of our staff and attend a presentation providing key information.  Tickets can be obtained by calling into the school office or by emailing us at office@loretokk.ie or by telephoning 776 5132.  We look forward to welcoming you.

Card Making for all Occasions

Thursdays 3rd, 10th and 17th November from 8.00pm - 10.00pm.  Allow your creative self to emerge in a relaxed and friendly environment. No previous experience is necessary. All materials included … all you need to bring is your imagination and let your creativity flow ...  Facilitated by Sr. Róisín Gannon.  Cost: €70.

Kilkenny Celtic Festival

Friday, 30th September, Festival Concert in Mary's Cathedral at 7.30pm featuring Liadan, Nell Ni Chroinin and Janet Harbison's Irish Youth Harp Orchestra.  Also Free Storytelling for children on Saturday, 1st October in Butler House at 2.00pm. All welcome

Carers Association Support Group

A meeting of the above group will take place on 29th September in the Parish Centre after the 10.30am Mass in St. Fiacre’s Church.  Meet other carers, find information, listen to speakers.

Flag Days taking place, Thursday 13^th, Friday 14^th, and Saturday 15^th October.  We are also looking for volunteers to assist for an hour.  Please contact us @ 772 1424.

25th Sunday In Ordinary Time, 18th, September 2011

New Mass Translation

This weekend we introduce the new translation of the Mass in our churches.  We hope that people will find the new translation more prayerful and meaningful.  It will take some getting use to and to help with the transition we have provided leaflets with the words of the new Mass. 

With an open heart may we join together in praise of God as we learn the new rite.

Note: Please leave the leaflets in the church after Mass as we need them for other Masses.  Thanks you.

Questions People Ask

Q.  I go to Mass at 12 noon every Saturday.  Am I still obliged to go to Mass on Sunday?

A. The law of the Church speaks of the Sunday obligation but I don’t like the word ‘obliged’ in the context of the Eucharist.  In a tradition that goes back to the Apostles, Sunday has been the day when Christians gather for the celebration of the Lord’s saving death and resurrection.  In accordance with biblical understanding, Sunday’s liturgical time commences on Saturday evening, hence the Saturday Vigil Mass.  It’s great that you go to Mass on Saturday but Sunday Eucharist is special.

Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

First Holy Communion 2012

The parents of those who hope to receive their First Holy Communion in St. Patrick’s Parish next Spring are invited to a meeting re the Do This in Memory Programme on this Monday, 19th September at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 7.30pm.  Do This in Memory is our parish based preparation programme for candidates and their families.

Legion of  Mary

Come and join us!  You are welcome to our meetings which take place at the following venues: St. Joseph’s Mill Hill House, Waterford Road (Mondays, 7.30pm); St. John’s Presbytery (Tuesdays, 7.30pm), St. Joseph’s Mill House (Thursdays, 8.00pm).

New members are always welcome.

Setting the Bar High

The following story landed in my email inbox this week: ‘Many years ago, when I worked as a volunteer at a hospital, I got to know a little girl named Liz who was suffering from a rare and serious disease.  Her only chance of recovery appeared to be a blood transfusion from her five-year-old brother, who had miraculously survived the same disease and had developed the antibodies needed to combat the illness.

‘The doctor explained the situation to her little brother, and asked the boy if he would be willing to give his blood to his sister.  I saw him hesitate for only a moment before taking a deep breath and saying, ‘Yes, I’ll do it if it will save Liz’. 

‘As the transfusion progressed, he lay in bed next to his sister and smiled, as we all did, seeing the colour returning to her cheeks.  Then his face grew pale and his smile faded.  He looked up at the doctor and asked with a trembling voice, ‘Will I start to die right away?’

Being young, the boy had misunderstood the doctor; he thought he was going to have to give his sister all of his blood.’ 

Some stories make us stop and look at life in a different way.  Some of the best ones feature characters who surpass our expectations and inspire us to greater things.  Jesus uses the landowner in today’s Gospel to drive home a simple message: God is more generous and giving than we could ever expect or imagine.  Like the boy in the story above, the landowner sets the bar high.

In the words of the prophet Isaiah in the first reading, ‘The heavens are as high above earth as my ways are above your ways, my thoughts above your thoughts.’

Triona Doherty.

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 your parish conference. Thanks.

The Society can be contacted by letter addressed to the Parish Centre and by telephone on 087 681 0589.

Pray for Our Deceased

Recently Deceased: Martin Reade, Clara. Babies Layla & Cailyn Martin, Dukesmeadows.

Anniversaries: Catherine & John Alley (Sat 6.15), Sr. Mary Clifford (Sat 7.00), Ernie Harrington (Sun 10.00), Margaret Jones (Sun 11.00), Ciss Holland (Sun 12.00), Mary & Joan Bissett (12.30), Sharon McEvoy, Margaret Beehan, Michael & Bridget Slattery, Peggy Mernagh, Tom Little, Billy & Statia Tallant, Josephine Neary, Bridget Cahill, Molly Browne, Jack Allen, Margaret Morris, Kathleen Murphy, Syd & Elizabeth Bluett, Ger Kavanagh, Margaret Morris, Kathleen Murphy, Paddy Larkin, Jimmy Owens.

Intentions for next weekend: Eugene & Paddy Somers (Sat 6.15), The Byrne Family (Sat 7.00), Fr. John Lennon (Sun 9.30), Ernie Harrington (Sun 10.00), Dan Gorey (Sun 10.30), Kathleen Kenny (Sun 11.00), Stella O’Rourke (Sun 12.00), John Casey (Sun 12.30).

Parish Liturgy Group

It is intended to re-establish the St. Patrick’s Parish Liturgy Group.  The group works with the priests to help prepare the liturgies that take place in our churches.  Such celebrations include: November Remembrance of the Dead, Advent, Christmas, Lent and Easter liturgies and so on. 

Of particular significance this year is the introduction of the new translation of the Mass which becomes official in November.  Also next year the 50th International Eucharistic Congress will be held in Dublin and preparations have to be made for this great event.

If you would like to be involved come along to a meeting in the Parish Centre at 8.00pm on Thursday, 29th September.  No experience necessary; all you need is a love of the Mass and a willingness to work to make our celebrations more meaningful for all.

Divine Mercy

There will be an hour of adoration and prayer in the Capuchin Friary on Sunday, 11th September from 3.00pm - 4.00pm.  All welcome.

Parish Envelope Collection

Thanks for €1,385.00 received last weekend.

Communion for the Sick

A number of Eucharistic ministers and specially commissioned ministers take the Blessed Sacrament to the sick in our parish.  In doing so they give consolation to the sick and provide invaluable assistance to the priests.

We remind ministers to approach a priest and not a Eucharistic Minister when taking Holy Communion to the sick.  Please present your pyx while receiving Holy Communion yourself. 

Ministers from others parishes should note that we will not give Holy Communion to be taken elsewhere.  Ministers are commissioned for their parish only and should only take Holy Communion from their parish to the sick of their parish.  When this is not possible they should make alternative arrangements within their own parish.

Ministers who take Holy Communion to the sick in our parish are to do just that, to the sick person only and not to other able-bodied members of the family.  If family members are able to attend Mass, then they should not expect the minister to bring them Holy Communion.

We don’t mean to be restrictive or difficult in this but we must ensure proper reverence and respect for the Blessed Eucharist. Over the past months we have had a number of incidents which, if not checked, could lead to an abuse of the Eucharist.  We seek your co-operation.

Be still and know that I am God

Christian meditation group resumes at Peace in Christ Retreat House on Wednesday, 28th September at 4.00pm.  All are welcome each week.

‘Log on Learn’

The ‘Log on Learn’ computer programme for the older generation will begin in the Presentation Secondary School, Loughboy on Wednesday, 5th October at 11.45am.  Please contact 056 776 5648 to participate in the programme.

Art Classes

For beginners and more advanced starting in September. The venue is Bishop Birch Institute, Waterford Road. For further information please contact Sonja on 083 394 1220 or 770 8155, email, sonjavrsajkov@gmail.com

Loughboy Library

Computer Basics for Beginners: free classes available at Loughboy Library: 779 4176.

The Book Club will meet on Thursday, 6th October at 10.30am.  Books for October/November are “Girl in Translation” (Jean Kwok) and “On Canaan’s Side” (Sebastian Barry).  Please come along.

Exhibitions: bookings are now being taken for 2012 - book your place now.

Hard of Hearing?

Hearing Help and Lip-reading classes will start on Monday, 19th September at 8pm for 8 weeks. Venue: Citizens Information Offices, The Parade, Kilkenny.  086 809 4658.  All welcome.

Kilkenny Contact

We are looking for additional volunteers to commit to one hour per week to befriend/visit older people who live alone in your area.  All you need is to be kind, caring and have good listening skills.  Our older people have a lot to give back to you also, along with the benefit of their experience of life.  If you are  interested please call Eleanor or Mary on 775 1988 or 086 410 8902.

The Power of Literacy

Many adults over the years have left school early and may not have a Junior Certificate or equivalent qualification and this can act as  a barrier to accessing other educational opportunities.

Word Aid, the Co Kilkenny Adult Learning Scheme, offers help to adults (over 16 who have left school) who want to improve their skills in reading, writing, spelling, sums and computers along with any other skills they may need for specific situations.

Classes are arranged daytime or evenings to suit the individual, where they can learn whatever they want at their own pace in a relaxed atmosphere, while at the same time building their confidence and self esteem.

Help is available with preparation for the driver theory test and support towards the driving test.

The service is available in Kilkenny City and at a number of outreaches.  The service is free and confidential.  For information telephone 056 776 3149 or call to 43 Upper Patrick Street.

Shall We Dance?

Beginners’ classes start Monday, 19th September at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre. Info: 085 733 8140.

Archaeology, Literature, Irish

Kilkenny Campus (St. Kieran’s College) offers morning, afternoon and evening courses beginning in October.  Archaeology (6 weeks), Literature (6-8 weeks), Irish for Beginners/Improvers (18 weeks).  Applications close Thursday, 22nd September.  Fees from €100 for 6 - week course to €300 for 18 weeks. For details call 056 777 5910 or 087 263 0999 or see www.nuim.ie/kilkenny.

Mouth Cancer Awareness

Wednesday, 21st September has been designated as Mouth Cancer Awareness Day.  Free mouth cancer examination at local participating dental surgeries, e.g. Springhill Clinic; 9.00am - 1.00pm and 2.00pm - 5.30pm.  Further details at www.mouthcancerawareness.ie

Blessing of Animals

St. Canice’s Parish hosts a blessing of animals to celebrate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi at 3.00pm on Saturday, 1st October in the grounds of St. Canice’s Church.

24th Sunday in Ordinary Time, 11th September 2011

Bishop Peter Birch

           – a Centenary Celebration

A number of events have been arranged locally to mark the 100^th anniversary of the birth of Bishop Peter Birch (4^th September 1911) and the 30^th anniversary of his death (7^th March 1981).   Bishop Birch, a native of Conahy Parish, was Bishop of Ossory from 1962 until his unexpected death in 1981.

On this Sunday, 11^th September Bishop Seamus Freeman will be the principal concelebrant at concelebrated Mass in Jenkinstown Church at 12.15pm.

Later that afternoon Sr. Stanislaus Kennedy RSC will lead a short contemplative walk through Jenkinstown Wood, starting at the walled area on the right of the forest entrance and progressing to St. Colman’s Well.

At 3.30pm a local remembrance will be held in Conahy Shamrock’s GAA Clubhouse.  This will include ‘A Place in History: Peter Birch, Tullowglass, Conahy and Ossory’, a short presentation by Denis Bergin on Peter Birch in a local context.

At 8.00pm at the Club House Hotel, Patrick Street, Tim Pat Coogan will present ‘Peter Birch and the Vanishing Ireland’.  Mr. Coogan, historian and author, will include personal reminiscences of Peter Birch and an assessment of his significance as churchman and thinker in the Ireland of his times.  This will be followed by refreshments and an informal gathering.

St. Joseph's Young Priests Society

The annual general meeting of the parish conference of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will be held at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Friday, 16th September immediately after the 10.30am Mass.  New members are welcome.

First Holy Communion 2012

The parents of those who hope to receive their First Holy Communion in St. Patrick’s Parish next Spring are invited to a meeting re the Do This in Memory Programme on Monday, 19th September at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre at 7.30pm.  Do This in Memory is our parish based preparation programme for candidates and their families.

Questions People Ask

Q. Does God intervene on earth?  If so, why in some cases and not in others?

A. We believe that God intervened mightily on earth in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  He told us to ask, to search and to knock on the door.  He told parables about persevering in prayer but he never said that every petition would be answered directly.  He gave the example of how a loving parent answers a child but not by giving anything that would be dangerous.  We must allow that God, with a wider view of affairs and a timescale that reaches into eternity, answers our prayer in a way that we may not perceive at the moment.

Fr. Silvester O’Flynn OFM Cap

Pray for Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Peggy Dowling, Castlecomer Road. Paschal Coyne, Bishop’s Meadows. JJ Reddy, Cuffesgrange. Jim Power, Wexford. Maurice Pollard, James’ Green. Alice Galvin, St. John’s Court.  Veronica Igoe, Vicar Street.

Anniversaries: Sean O’Keeffe (Sat 6.15), William Hackett (Sat 7.00), Michelle Reynolds (Sun 9.30), Margaret Brennan (Sun 10.00), Rita McCarthy (Sun 10.30), Christina Scott (Sun 11.00), Catherine Grace (Sun 12.00), Joe O’Brien (Sun 12.30).  William Hickey, Maureen Holden, Edward & Christina O’Shaughnessy, Therese McDonald, Anastatia Ayers.

Intentions for next weekend: Catherine & John Alley (Sat 6.15), Sr. Mary Clifford (Sat 7.00), Ernie Harrington (Sun 10.00), Margaret Jones (Sun 11.00),  Ciss Holland (Sun 12.00), Mary & Joan Bissett (Sun 12.30).

9/11 Service of Remembrance

A service of Remembrance to mark the 10th anniversary of 9/11 will take place on Sunday, 11th September at the City Hall, Kilkenny at 7.00pm.  The service will be hosted by Mr. David Fitzgerald, Mayor of Kilkenny.  Bishop Freeman and members of other churches will lead the prayers.  Music will be provided by the Kilkenny Gospel Choir and St. Patrick’s Brass Band.  All welcome.

Bridge in the Afternoons

Afternoon bridge in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Tuesday’s from 3.00—5.00pm.  Everyone is welcome.  No partner required.

Aislinn Family Services

Roscrea Folk Group will perform the Mass setting “Lead me Home” written and composed by Seamus Doran at a Healing Mass for Families and Addicts at St Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny on Friday 16th September 2011 at 8pm.  Celebrant: Fr. Mark Condon. Voluntary donations on the night in support of the family services would be much appreciated.

Parish Envelope Collection

Thanks for €1,612.00 received last weekend. We appreciate your generosity.

Alliance Française

Want to learn French or to improve or practice your French - join Alliance Française.  For more information come to the Club House Hotel on 12th or 13th September 7 to 9.00pm.

Mouth Cancer Awareness

Wednesday, 21st September has been designated as Mouth Cancer Awareness Day here in Ireland. Members of the public are encouraged to contact and visit their local participating dentist or either Dublin Dental University School and Hospital or Cork University Dental School and Hospital for a free mouth cancer examination on this day. Further details at www.mouthcancerawareness.ie

Shall We Dance?

Learn to waltz, quickstep, cha-cha and much more.  Beginner’s classes, starting Monday , 19th September at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre.  Contact Mary: 085 733 8140.

Loughboy Library

Creative writing  workshops commence on 22nd September from 6.00 - 8.00pm.  Free 6 week course.  Contact 056 779 4187.  Toddler Hour, every Thursday at 11.30am.

GROW Says Thanks

GROW Mental Health Movement Annual Churchgate Collection: €2,624.62. Thanks.

Suffering From Chronic Illness?

Is chronic illness part of your life? Are you a carer or do you have a health condition?  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, isolation or any of the many other consequences of long-term and enduring ill-health or disability? 

Self management is about using simple skills to take control of the way you think and feel about your health condition/your caring situation and how you cope in everyday life.                       Courses October 2011: 

Pembroke Hotel, Patrick Street, Kilkenny. Time: 7.00pm - 9.30pm.  Dates: Beginning Monday, 10^th October and every Monday for six weeks. There will be a break for the Bank Holiday on Monday, 31^st October. 

Ayrfield Medical Centre, Granges Road. Kilkenny.  Time: 10.00am - 12.30pm.  Dates: Beginning Friday, 14^th October and every Friday for six weeks.

For further details or to book a place check out www.ceartpatientwise.ie.  Email: annecody@ceart.ie.  Anne 087 902 8534.

Family Communications & Self Esteem

The Health Promotion Department of the HSE South is planning to run a  Family Communication and Self Esteem course in Kilkenny.  This 8 week course is designed to help parents explore how they communicate with their children, to support them in the good job they are already doing and provide an opportunity to talk to other parents.  The course is free and is intended for parents of 9 - 17 year olds.  Venue: The Drum Youth Centre, McDonagh Junction every Thursday 10.15am - 12.45pm from 6th October.  Information: 056 776 1400.

Have You Arthritis Or Fibromyalgia?

The Living Well With Arthritis Programme is for you.   Learn how to decrease your pain, reduce your fatigue, introduce exercise and relaxation into your daily life, increase your self-confidence to manage your arthritis, improve your sense of well-being. This award winning course costs just €30 for 6 sessions.  St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, Thursday, 15th  September and continuing for 6 weeks.  Information and registration: contact Arthritis Ireland  01 647 0206.

New Club For People In Their 20s

In your 20s in Kilkenny and like to try something new?  Like to meet other fun, friendly outgoing young adults in their 20s?  Want to organise your own social events, sports, entertainment?  Like to do some good in your local community?  Like to broaden your network in Kilkenny and beyond?

If you said ‘yes’ then why not come along to a meeting to set up a Rotaract Club here in Kilkenny?  Rotaract is for people in their 20s, if new to or just returned to Kilkenny, or if you have lived here all your life! Whether you are in college, beginning your career or looking to start a career Rotaract could have something for you. The club would be run by the members for themselves. The sort of things that a Rotaract Club could do would be as diverse as its members want and could include social activities, sporting activities, community work, personal development and charitable activities. Rotaract is a national and international organisation linked to Rotary International.  If interested why not come along to the interest meeting at 8.00pm in the Club House Hotel on Monday, 12th of September? There will be finger food so what have you got to lose?

Information: Joe on 086 120 9211 or ‘Rotaract Kilkenny’ on facebook.

Kilkenny Leader Partnership

Are you unemployed, a lone parent, on a Social Welfare Payment or just want the motivation and confidence to get back into the workforce? If you are then have a look at the courses offered below by Kilkenny Leader Partnership.  Courses being offered: Interior Design, Sewing and Alterations, Digital Photography, Customer Service Skills, Basic House Maintenance: Tiling. Painting, Wallpapering. 

More information and registration for any of the courses: Connie on 086 771 8040 between Monday and Tuesday 9.00am - 5.00pm and Wednesday 9.00am - 12.30pm.

Child Welfare and Protection in Sport

Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership is running two Child Welfare and Protection in Sport Training Courses: Thursday, 29th September and Monday, 14th November 2011.  Venue: St. Patricks Parish Centre.  Times: 6.00pm – 9.00pm.  Contact: Michelle on 056 772 0870.

The New Missal

Sign of Peace

Priest: The peace of the Lord be with you always.

People: And with your spirit.

Invitation to Holy Communion

Priest: Behold the Lamb of God,

Behold him who takes away the sins of the world.  Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb.

People: Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.

Concluding Rites.

Priest: The Lord be with you.

People: And with your spirit.

23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, 3rd September 2011

Made For Each Other

‘Turning the front door knob, it came to him that maybe he could sponge away the look of loneliness that he’d seen in Susan’s eyes – and John was now pretty sure it was loneliness he’d seen, despite the smiles and the confidences.  If he’d learned one thing while he’d been away, it was that loneliness and the open discussion of loneliness is the most taboo subject in the world.  Forget sex or politics or religion.  Or even failure.  Loneliness is what clears out a room’ – Douglas Coupland, Miss Wyoming.

Many of us have experienced loneliness at one time or another.  We hear a lot of talk these days about a modern sense of loneliness and isolation, in spite of advancements in mobile technology and the growth of online communities.  Yet relationships are at the heart of who we are as human beings.

The Gospel of Matthew begins and ends with reassurance that we are not alone.  At the beginning we are told the one who is coming will be called Emmanuel, meaning ‘God is with us’, and it concludes with the words of Jesus ‘I am with you always, to the very end of the age’.  And here in the middle we have Jesus’ assurance: ‘Where two or three meet in my name, I shall be there with them.’

Today’s Gospel speaks to us about relationships, and lets us know that God is with us in and through our relationships with other people – when we gather in his name, he is there too.

Triona Doherty.

Questions People Ask

Q. Why does God not appear in person or by way of a burning bush or booming voice to make it a bit easier to believe?

A. Would such a manifestation move people to believe in the sense of committing themselves in mind and heart to God?  When God spoke on earth through the life of Jesus Christ, despite his inspiring message and deeds of healing and compassion, he was rejected by many and crucified!  ‘If they will not listen either to Moses or to the prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone should rise from the dead’ (Luke 16:31).  Signs from God are not lacking.  People who do not want to believe will somehow find a reason to reject any sign.  It’s not wonders that we lack but wonderment.

Pray For Our Deceased

Recently Deceased: Patsy Ryan, Maidenhill, Kells Road. Maura Coonan, Marble Crest.  James Woodcock, Bishop’s Hill.

Anniversaries: Paul & Mary Cody & Bill Marnell (Sat 6.15), Matthew Dwyer (Sat 7.00), Ellen Reid (Sun 11.00), Jacqueline Rainey (Sun 12.30),  The McNeill Family (Tue 10.30), Seamus Kelly (Wed 10.30), Richard & Mary-Ann Hyland (Thurs 9.30), John & Catherine Waldron, The Cassin Family, Edward & Christina O’Shaughnessy, Maurice Maher, Paddy Ryan, Fr. Liam Holohan.

Intentions for Next Weekend: Sean O’Keeffe (Sat 6.15), William Hackett (Sat 7.00), Michelle Reynolds (Sun 9.30), Margaret Brennan (Sun 10.00), Rita McCarthy (Sun 10.30), Christina Scott (Sun 11.00), Catherine Grace (Sun 12.00), Joe O’Brien (Sun 12.30). 

Talking in Church

Following a number of complaints from people trying to pray before and after Mass, we appeal to all to maintain an air of prayerful silence in our churches. 
This is particularly a problem in St. Fiacre’s Church where unnecessary noise levels have been getting out of hand as of late. Please help us to provide an atmosphere of prayerful silence in church.  Thank you.

First Saturday Devotion

The usual devotions on the first Saturday of the month will take place in St. Fiacre’s Church on this Saturday, 3rd September after 6.15pm Mass.  Prayers and adoration will end at 9.00pm.  All are welcome.

Legion of Mary Mass

All are welcome to the Mill Hill Chapel, Waterford Road on next Friday, 9th September for Mass to celebrate ninety years of the Legion of Mary and commemorating the thirtieth anniversary of the passing of its founder The Servant of God Frank Duff.  Celebrant will be Bishop Seamus Freeman SAC.

Westcourt News

The monthly Mass to pray for the canonisation of Blessed Edmund Rice and for his intercession in our lives will take place in Westcourt on Monday, 5th September 2011 at 7.30pm.  The Camphill Community will organise the liturgy for this Mass. All welcome.

Monthly Rosary at James Green

The monthly rosary on the first Sunday at the statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny in James Green will take place on this Sunday, 4th September at 3.00pm.  All are welcome.

Envelope Collection

The total for last weeks Parish envelope collection amounted to €1,245.00.  Thanks for your continued support.
Please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400 if you require an envelope pack.

Tuesday Morning Tea

Tea and coffee will be served in the Parish Centre each Tuesday morning after the 10.30am Mass.  Come along and meet others in the community over a refreshing cuppa.  All are welcome.

Young At Heart
The Young at Heart Club re-opens in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on Wednesday 7th September at 2.30pm - 4.30pm.  All are welcome.

Ladies’ Friendship Club

The club is starting again following the summer break on Wednesday, 7th September at 8.30pm.  Meet at the Social Services Centre, Waterford Road. New members are welcome.

Church Gate Collection

GROW Mental Health Movement will hold their Annual Churchgate Collection on Saturday 3^rd and Sunday 4^th September 2011.

Parish Centre Bookings

For all bookings of rooms,, halls etc. contact Ted Byrne at 776 4400 (follow auto-prompts) or call to the Parish Centre.

Bishop Peter Birch  – a Centenary Celebration

A number of events have been arranged locally to mark the 100^th anniversary of the birth of Bishop Peter Birch (4^th September 1911) and the 30^th anniversary of his death (7^th March 1981).   Bishop Birch, a native of Conahy Parish, was Bishop of Ossory from 1962 until his unexpected death in 1981.

On next Sunday, 11^th September Bishop Seamus Freeman will be the principal concelebrant at concelebrated Mass in Jenkinstown Church at 12.15pm.

Later that afternoon Sr. Stanislaus Kennedy RSC will lead a short contemplative walk through Jenkinstown Wood, starting at the walled area on the right of the forest entrance and progressing to St. Colman’s Well.

At 3.30pm a local remembrance will be held in Conahy Shamrock’s GAA Clubhouse.  This will include ‘A Place in History: Peter Birch, Tullowglass, Conahy and Ossory’, a short presentation by Denis Bergin on Peter Birch in a local context.

At 8.00pm at the Club House Hotel, Patrick Street, Tim Pat Coogan will present ‘Peter Birch and the Vanishing Ireland’.  Mr. Coogan, historian and author, will include personal reminiscences of Peter Birch and an assessment of his significance as churchman and thinker in the Ireland of his times.  This will be followed by refreshments and an informal gathering.

Can You Support the S.O.S?

S.O.S. is a Voluntary Organisation for adults with a mild/moderate intellectual disability. S.O.S. provides day services, respite and residential care. We are looking for families to provide breaks in their home for adults from our services.  Nominal expenses are paid.

We are also looking for volunteers to support us in providing extra social and recreational activities for people in S.O.S. If you would like to know more about volunteering or providing breaks please contact Kathleen Sherry at 056 776 4000 or email ksherry@soskilkenny.com or visit our website on www.soskilkenny.com . We will be holding an information evening on 21^st September at 7pm in S.O.S. All welcome.

Loughboy Library

Summer Reading Challenge:- please return registration forms to the library by 9th September to receive invitation to the Circus Stars Party.

Drakelands Nursing Home present a photographic exhibition until 9th September.  Call and see what these active residents get up to.

Toddler Hour:- with story time and play continues on Thursdays at 11.30am.  This is a free facility.

A Hurler’s Prayer

Give me o' Lord a hurler’s skill

With strength of arm and speed of limb

Unerring eye for the flying ball

And courage to match them whatever befall.

May my aim be steady - my stroke be true

My actions manly - my misses few.

And no matter what way the game may go

May I part in friendship with every foe.

When the final whistle for me is blown

And I stand at last at God’s Judgement Throne

May the great Referee when he calls my name

Say ...

You hurled like a man

You played the game!

Amen.

St. Fiacre’s Well

We offer a sincere word of thanks to all who helped make the recent novena and Mass at St. Fiacre’s Well successful.  Well done to the committee and organisers and thanks to those who attended the events.

Diocesan Website

www.ossory.ie -for information on our diocese.