Monday, January 28, 2013

3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, 27th January 2013

Catholic Schools Week
Catholic Schools Week is an annual celebration of the important role that Catholic primary and secondary schools play in providing a values-added education for our young people. The week aims to build community awareness of, and involvement in, Catholic schools in Ireland.
CSW 2013 will firstly encourage schools to take time in prayer giving thanks for the gift of faith and praying for growth in faith. Secondly during the week schools will be encouraged to reflect on the witness of the Christian life that is available to us in the lives of those around us and in the lives of the saints that we celebrate during the week.  Finally we will be encouraged to look to Christ because faith has its starting and finishing points in Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
There will be many and varied activities in the Catholic schools in our parish during the week: invite your children to discuss these activities at home.
Pupils and staff from some of our schools will attend the public Masses in our churches on various days during the week. Parents and grandparents are invited to join us in church each day.

Mass Times at St. Patrick’s Church
To facilitate the pupils and staff from our schools the morning Mass at St. Patrick’s Church will be deferred until 9.35am each day this week.  Sorry if this causes any inconvenience for regular worshippers.

St. Patrick’s De La Salle School
To mark Catholic Schools Week the pupils and staff of St. Patrick’s De La Salle will prepare the liturgy and provide the music at the 10.30am Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church on next Sunday.
 
Candlemas Day
Saturday, 2nd February is the feast of the Presentation of the Lord.  Also known as Candlemas Day: candles for use in the church and home are blessed at Masses on this day.  Suitable wax candles are available in the Parish Centre for just €1 each.
 
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Sr. Gemma Martin, St. John of God Convent, College Road.  Requiem Mass at St. Patrick’s Church at 12.30pm on Sunday followed by burial in Foulkstown Cemetery.  Mary Kelly, Halifax. Mary E. Redmond, Castlecomer Road. Mary Phelan, Ballycallan.
Months Mind: Paddy Kelly (Sun 11.00).
Anniversaries: Paul Prodromou (Sat 6.15). Ann O’Shea (Sat 7.00). James (Jim) Loughlin (Sun 9.30). Michael Moore (Sun 10.00). Ann & John Waldron (Sun 10.30). Kathleen Hickey (Sun 12.00). John Collins (Sun 12.30). Con Noonan (Tues 9.30).  Ellen, John, Pat & Mary Butler (Tue 10.30). Daniel (Algie) Lanigan (Wed 10.30). Christy McLoughlin (Thurs 10.30). Lil, Billy & Eamonn Costelloe (Fri 10.30). Anne Nolan (Sat 9.30). Elizabeth Kavanagh. John Hennessy. Kathleen Kelly.  John & Katherine Curry.  Annie Delaney. William Culleton. Catherine Brett. Anne Kenny. Phil & Statia Grace. Mary Morris-Allen. Patrick Morris. Peter Browne. Jimmy Browne. Rev. John Nyhan.
Intentions for next weekend: Christine Comerford (Months Mind Sat 6.15). Breda Butler (Sat 7.00). Noeline Flood (Sun 10.00). Joe O’Shea (Sun 10.30). Eileen Cummins (Sun 11.00), Eileen Baker (Months Mind Sun 12.00). Jimmy McGrath Sun 12.30).
 
World Day for Consecrated Life
On Sunday, 3rd February we will celebrate World Day for Consecrated Life. This celebration invites all in the Church to reflect on the role of Consecrated Life within the Christian community. Some Christian women and men live out the consecrated life in different ways; religious sisters, nuns, brothers, religious priests, and monks consecrate their lives through their profession of vows and live as part of a community.
Bishop Séamus will celebrate the occasion with the religious of our diocese at a special Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 4.00pm on Thursday, 31st January.  All are welcome.
 
First Friday
The first Friday of February occurs this week.  The priests will visit the sick and housebound at the usual times.  Contact the Parish Office if you would like to be included.
 
St. Brigid's Day Service
This year’s St. Brigid’s Day Service will take place in St. Fiacre's Church on Friday, 1st February at 7.30pm. Holy water from the Well of St. Brigid in Kildare and the traditional Red Flannel will be available on the night. All welcome.
 
St. Patrick’s Lourdes Committee
This parish group raises funds to help deserving parishioners travel to Lourdes with the Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage in May.  The Committee is now accepting nominations for travellers with this year’s pilgrimage.  Contact Michelle in the Parish Office (776 4400) if you or someone known to you would like to be considered for travel.
 
Mass in Honour of St. Joseph
Mass in honour of St. Joseph is celebrated on the first Wednesday of every month at the Mill Hill Chapel, Waterford Road.  The next Mass will be at 8.00pm on Wednesday, 6th February.  Please join us if you can.
 
Alzheimers/Dementia Support Group
For carers of people with Alzheimers/Dementia. Providing a safe space for information exchange, emotional and practical support and the opportunity to network. Location: Alzheimer Day Care Centre, No. 1 Fr Walsh Close, Cootes Lane, Kilkenny (Behind the Village Inn). Next Meeting: 30th January, 4.00 - 5.30pm. Info: 056 777 1230.
 
The Carers’ Association
Support Group Meeting on Thursday, 31st January.  Mass in St. Fiacre’s Church at 10.30am will be followed by meeting in the Parish Centre at 11.00am.  We look forward to seeing you there.
 
Grow Mental Health Movement
This group is running a fundraiser in Cillin Hill, Kilkenny towards the end of February. All monies go towards our work in the community. We would appreciate any donations e.g Pottery, Glassware, unwanted Christmas gifts, Jewellery, Household items etc. Many thanks for your support. Contact: Mary or Eileen on 776 1624.
 
Anam Cara Support Groups
Anam Cara
Support Groups provide parents with an environment where they have the opportunity to connect with other bereaved parents.  Anam Cara is holding its monthly support meeting on Monday, 28th of January at 7.30pm at The Horse & Jockey Hotel. Information www.anamcara.ie; info@anamcara.ie & 01 404 5378.
  
Church Gate Collection
Ossory Youth will hold a church gate collection this weekend.  Please support.
 
Loughboy Library
Simple Irish conversation gatherings for all levels start Wednesday, 6th February at 11.00am.  Duration: 8 weeks.  Tá fáilte romhat.  056 779 4176.
 
Homecare Training Programme
MOMENTUM will support the provision of free education and training projects to allow 6,500 jobseekers to gain skills and to access work opportunities in identified growing sectors.  For programme information please refer to www.carersireland.com/monemtum.php or telephone 057 932 2920.
 
Art Classes
Morning art class for adults will resume on Friday, 1st February, 10:30am to 12:00 noon. Info: Sonja on artwithsonja@gmail.com 083 394 1220.
 
Keep Up to Date on our Parish
More news and updates on www.patricksparish.net and www.facebook.com/StPatricksKK
 
Celebrate the Year of Faith.
Come to a Day of Prayer at Knock Shrine on 2nd February (10.00am - 5.00pm). The day includes talks, Rosary, Adoration and Holy Mass. Talks will be given by Fr Kilian Byrne, Foyers of Charity. Talks will include: The Eucharist - The Pearl of Great Price, The Catechism of the Catholic Church and The Urgency of the Fatima Message.
 
Painting Classes with a Difference
No painting skills are necessary - materials are provided.  For more information contact 086 248 5887 or 057 873 7899. Starts 25th of February.
 
NUI Maynooth
The Kilkenny Campus of NUI Maynooth invites 6th Year, FETAC and mature students to take the first year of their BA degree in Kilkenny. Info: CAO (MH901) and www.nuim.ie/kilkenny
Students choosing to take this exciting new option will benefit by taking the 1st year of their BA degree close to home in a friendly, learner centered environment - before moving to the main NUI Maynooth Campus for 2nd and 3rd year. Those living locally will also have the advantage of making significant savings on travel and accommodation costs.  Subjects on offer:
 
Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes
Bookings can now be made for the 2013 Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes which takes place between 22nd and 27th May. Contact: 051 880 414 and glenmore@ossory.ie.  Fare €735pps.

Monday, January 21, 2013

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time 20th January 2013

Parish Senior Citizen’s Party
The annual St. Patrick’s Parish Senior Citizens’ party will be held at the Parish Centre at 7.30pm on Monday, 28th January.  Tickets (€10) available at the Parish Centre.  We ask people to purchase tickets to enable us to plan out catering on the night.  Music by the Marble City Swingers.  Get your party frocks and dancing shoes ready!
 
Bad Weather Forecast
If the anticipated bad weather arrives during the week we appeal to all who are able to check on vulnerable neighbours.  Make sure they are warm and don’t have to come out to get essentials.
World Migrant and Refugee Sunday
To celebrate World Migrant and Refugee Sunday, a Mass celebrating the diversity of the many cultures of the faithful living in the Diocese of Ossory, will take place in St. Mary's Cathedral, on this Sunday, 20th January at 11.00am.  All welcome.
Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity
The annual Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity began last Friday and runs until Friday, 25th January.  During this time we are asked to pray especially for Church unity.  We are also asked to do all in our power to build up good, positive and trusting relationships between members of our different denominations.  This year’s Week of Prayer for Christian Unity explores the theme, “What does God require of us?” (Micah 6:6-8).
Bishop Michael Burrows was guest preacher at St. Mary’s Cathedral at 6.30pm Mass on Saturday and Bishop Séamus will preach at St. Canice’s Cathedral on this Sunday.
 
New Coadjutor for Armagh
We welcome the news that His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has appointed Monsignor Eamon Martin as Coadjutor Archbishop of Armagh.  A coadjutor bishop assists the current incumbent and replaces him on his retirement.  Let us pray for him as he undertakes this important responsibility.
 
Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Patrick (Paddy) Burke, Wolf Tone Street: Requiem Mass at St. John’s Church at 12 noon on Sunday followed by burial at St. Kieran’s Cemetery.  Paul Delaney, Togher, Cork. Vicky O’Byrne, Mullingar.
Anniversaries: Anna Campion (Sat 6.15),Teresa Holden (Sat 7.00), Martin & Hugh McCorry (Sun 9.30). Kathleen O’Neill (Sun 10.00), Michael Drennan (Sun 10.30), Maureen O’Shea (Sun 11.00), Jack Comerford (Sun 12.00), Oliver Mannion (Sun 12.30), John Phelan (Tues 10.30), Elizabeth Mulligan (Wed 9.30), Paddy & Maureen Dwyer (Wed 10.30), Michael & Margaret Muldowney (Thurs 10.30), Catherine & Joseph Brennan (Fri 10.30),  John & Mary Kate Hayes, Patrick Tynan, Thomas Walton, Patrick & Sally Mullally, Martin Coyne, Michael McDonald, Sarah & Patrick Leahy, Paddy O’Byrne, Bobby Leahy. Christina Murphy.
Intentions for next weekend: Paul Prodromou (Sat 6.15). Ann O’Shea (Sat 7.00). Jim Loughlin (Sun 9.30). Michael Moore (Sun 10.00). Ann & John Waldron (Sun 10.30). Paddy Kelly (Months Mind Sun 11.00). Kathleen Hickey (Sun 12.00). John Collins (Sun 12.30).
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
The monthly collection for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is taken up as part of the second collection this weekend.  If you can give a little extra towards this worthwhile cause, your donation is greatly appreciated.  All donations made to the society stay within the parish and help families in our community.  The members of the local conference, who volunteer their time, make sure that the money collected is well spent.
Those who in need of financial or material help within the parish can contact the society by dropping a sealed letter into the Parish Center in Loughboy or by calling the confidential phone number: 087 681 0589.
Thank you for your continued generous support.
 Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes
Bookings can now be made for the 2013 Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes which takes place between 22nd and 27th May. Contact: 051 880 414 and glenmore@ossory.ie.  Fare €735pps.
Lifeline Suicide Prevention
Lifeline Kilkenny will hold a Community Planning meeting in Butler House, Patrick Street on Wednesday, 23rd January at 7.30pm. The purpose of the meeting is to seek people’s ideas and thoughts on how we can put in place actions that can be included in a County Kilkenny Action Plan for Suicide Prevention 2014-19. All welcome.
The Carers’ Association
Support Group Meeting on Thursday, 31st January.  Mass in St. Fiacre’s Church at 10.30am will be followed by meeting in the Parish Centre at 11.00am.  We look forward to seeing you there.
 
Celebrate the Year of Faith.
Come to a Day of Prayer at Knock Shrine on 2nd February (10.00am - 5.00pm). The day includes talks, Rosary, Adoration and Holy Mass. Talks will be given by Fr Kilian Byrne, Foyers of Charity. Talks will include: The Eucharist - The Pearl of Great Price, The Catechism of the Catholic Church and The Urgency of the Fatima Message.
Anam Cara Support Groups
Anam Cara Support Groups provide parents with a safe, comfortable environment where they have the opportunity to connect with other bereaved parents.  Anam Cara is holding its monthly support meeting on Monday, 28th of January from 19:30 to 21:00 at The Horse & Jockey Hotel, Thurles. This event is free and open to all bereaved parents.  Information www.anamcara.ie; info@anamcara.ie & 01 404 5378.
Keep Up to Date
Facebook: facebook.com/StPatricksKK
Alzheimers/Dementia Support Group
For carers of people with Alzheimers/Dementia. Providing a safe space for information exchange, emotional and practical support and the opportunity to network. Location: Alzheimer Day Care Centre, No. 1 Fr Walsh Close, Cootes Lane, Kilkenny (Behind the Village Inn). Next Meeting: 30th January, 4.00 - 5.30pm. Info: 056 777 1230.
 
St. Patrick’s Boxing Club
There will be an exhibition of boxing at the Parish Centre on next Friday, 25th January at 7.00pm.  Come and see our young boxers in action.
Dochas Nasamu Orphanage
An Irish run Aids orphanage in Nairobi is holding a used clothing appeal on Monday 21st January, at the Parish Centre Car park up until 10.45am.  For further information: 087 689 0995.
 
Loughboy Library
We are looking for volunteers to teach knitting to the younger generation during the Bealtaine Festival in May.
 
Art Classes
Morning art class for adults will resume on Friday, 1st February. Beginners are especially welcome. Classes are small, friendly and all materials are supplied on the first class. The classes run in Bishop Birch Institute, Waterford Road, Kilkenny from 10:30am to 12:00 noon. Information: Sonja at 083 3941220 or artwithsonja@gmail.com.
 
Painting Classes with a Difference
No painting skills are necessary - materials are provided.  For more information contact 086 248 5887 or 057 873 7899. Starts 25th of February.
 NUI Maynooth
The Kilkenny Campus of NUI Maynooth invites 6th Year, FETAC and mature students to take the first year of their BA degree in Kilkenny. Info: CAO (MH901) and www.nuim.ie/kilkenny
 
Young at Heart
The Club will reopen on Wednesday 23rd January 2013 at the Parish Centre from 2.30pm – 4.30pm.  All are welcome

Monday, January 14, 2013

The Baptism of The Lord 13th January 2013


Parish Contributions
We are extremely grateful to all who support our parish financially.  In tough economic times  it is heartening to know we can meet our daily running costs as well as servicing our building debt thanks to the generosity of so many.
So that we can give you credit for your contributions please use the weekly or monthly parish envelopes you received last year. 
St. Patrick’s Parish applies to the Revenue Commissioners for a tax refund on the contributions of PAYE taxpayers who give €250 per year (€5 a week) to the parish. This is at no extra cost to you.
The parish also issues approved charity receipts to those who pay tax as ‘self employed’ and who donate €250 per year.  These can be used to reduce your tax liabilities in your annual returns to the Revenue Commissioners.
Please contact the Parish Office if you are new to the parish or did not receive an envelope pack last year.  We will include you in the distribution of new envelopes next April. You might as well get some credit for the contribution you make each week.  Thanks once again.
Pro Life Vigil in Dublin
On next Saturday, 19th January there will be a ‘Unite for Life’ pro-life vigil held in Dublin’s Merrion Square at 4.30pm. Please make every effort to be there and to encourage family, friends and neighbours to do likewise. The vigil will have a positive, clear message about safeguarding the lives of mothers and babies in pregnancy. 
For the convenience of those who want to give a pro-life message to the government a coach will leave from St. Fiacre’s Church, Loughboy at 1.30pm on next Saturday and return to Kilkenny after the vigil.  Cost: €5.00.  Please book at the Parish Office (776 4400) during office hours.
This is a defining moment for our country.  Your presence is vital.

Pray for our Deceased Friends
Recently Deceased: Timmy Tennyson, Laurel Court. Funeral prayers at Johnston’s Funeral Home at 7.30pm on Sunday followed by removal to St. Fiacre’s Church.  Requiem Mass at 12.00noon on Monday followed by burial at Foulkstown Cemetery. Michael O’Connor, Bishop Birch Place.  Funeral prayers at Johnston’s Funeral Home at 6.00pm on Sunday followed by removal to St. John’s Church.  Requiem Mass at 10.30am on Monday followed by burial at St. Kieran’s Cemetery.  Breda Phelan, Upper Patrick Street. Fred Lee, Corcoran Terrace, Kells Road.
Months Mind: Patsy Dawson (Sun 12.00)
Anniversaries: Richard White (Sat 6.15). Albert & Brigid Downes (Sat 7.00). Mary Reynolds (Sun 9.30). Maura Nolan (Sun 10.00). Beattie O’Connell (Sun 10.30). Sean O’Dwyer (Sun 11.00). Mary Bartley (Sun 12.30). Peg Larkin (Tue 10.30). Bridget Marchetti (Wed 10.30). Margaret Howe. Mary & Patrick Byrne (Thurs 10.30).  John Long (Fri 10.30). Agnes Phelan. John, Mamie & Terry Brett. Johnny Brennan. Denis Guilfoyle. Patrick, Delia & Margaret Taylor. James & Annie O’Grady. Mary Ruth. Bernie Kelly. Carmel Maher. William, Tess & Joan Murphy. Billy Kealy. Agnes Phelan. Toby Keller. Peg Larkin. Margaret Guilfoyle.
Intentions for next weekend: Anna Campion (Sat 6.15). Teresa Holden (Sat 7.00). Martin & Hugh McCorry (Sun 9.30). Kathleen O’Neill (Sun 10.00). Michael Drennan (Sun 10.30). Maureen O’Shea (Sun 11.00). Jack Comerford (Sun 12.00). Oliver Mannion (Sun 12.30).
Parish Shop
A wide selection of religious  items is now available in the Parish Shop. In preparation for Candlemas Day (2nd February) the Parish Shop has a supply of 25% beeswax candles available for sale.  The candles are 10 inch tall and cost €1 each.  Call in and have a look.
Parish Senior Citizens’ Party
The annual St. Patrick’s Parish Senior Citizens’ party will be held at the Parish Centre at 7.30pm on Monday, 28th January.  Tickets (€10) available at the Parish Centre from Tuesday next.  We ask people to purchase tickets to enable us to cater on the night.  Music by the Marble City Swingers.  Get your party frocks and dancing shoes ready!
Diocese of Ossory Newsletter
A few remaining copies of the Ossory Times magazine are available to buy at all our churches and at the Parish Centre.  This magazine has informative and interesting articles which share and celebrate events in our diocese. Cost: €2.
Knights of St. Columbanus
The Kilkenny Council of the Order of the Knights of St. Columbanus is hosting a Christmas Dinner for deserving citizens residing in Kilkenny.  It will comprise a full 4 course dinner followed by music and dancing at The Irish Wheelchair Association, College Road, Kilkenny at 1.00pm on this Sunday, 13th January. Transport will be available from St. Fiacre’s Church at 12.45pm if required. 
Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes
Bookings can now be made for the 2013 Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes which takes place between 22nd and 27th May 2013. Telephone 051 880 414. Email: glenmore@ossory.ie.  Fare €735pps.
Divine Mercy Prayer
An hour of adoration and prayer for Divine Mercy will take place in the Friary Church on Sunday from 3.00pm - 4.00pm.  All are welcome.
Active Retirement Association
The next meeting of the Kilkenny Active Retirement Association will take place on Monday, 14th January at 2.30pm in the Club House Hotel, Kilkenny. All welcome.
Scoil Aireagail
Scoil Aireagail, Ballyhale will hold their assessment for incoming first year students on Saturday, 19th January 2013 from 9.00am -12.15pm.
 
Alliance Française
Children’s French Classes: Children from 4 years.  Enrolments: Monday 14th January from 7.00pm - 9.00pm at Club House Hotel.  For further information 087 668 2696.  Also classes available for secondary school students and adults.
 
NUI Maynooth
The Kilkenny Campus of NUI Maynooth, College Road, Kilkenny (adjoining St. Kieran's College) would like to invite 6th Year, FETAC and mature students (23yrs+) to take the first year of their BA degree in Kilkenny.  Students choosing to take this exciting new option will benefit by taking the 1st year of their BA degree close to home in a friendly, learner centered environment - before moving to the main NUI Maynooth Campus for 2nd and 3rd year. Those living locally will also have the advantage of making significant savings on travel and accommodation costs.  Subjects on offer: English; Anthropology or Nua Ghaeilge; History; Geography; Sociology; Economics; Philosophy; Theology or Medieval Irish and Celtic Studies.  Further information at: CAO (MH901) and www.nuim.ie/kilkenny
Painting Classes with a difference
No painting skills are necessary - materials are provided.  For more information contact 086 248 5887 or 057 873 7899 from 25th of February.
 
Loughboy Library
Internet, printing, photocopying and scanning facilities are available.  Toddler Hour on Thursdays from 11.30am.  Open on Fridays 6.00pm - 8.00pm.
Check Us Out
Website: www.patricksparish.net 
Facebook: facebook.com/StPatricksKK