Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 10th August 2014

Feast of The Assumption of Our Lady

Friday 15th August

In Irish tradition this feast is also called ‘Mary’s Day

in Autumn’. It is an important feast day for us because Mary is our advocate in Heaven. Let us place our trust in Mary as our mother. Mary, Mother of God, was assumed body and soul into the glory of heaven.  On this Feast Day we are obliged to attend Mass and refrain from unnecessary servile work. Pope Pius X11 declared Assumption Day a Church Feast in 1950. Scripture gives the following account of the Assumption, “ And a great sign appeared in heaven:

A woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under

her feet and on her head a crown of twelve stars.”

(Apocalypse 12:1).

Our Lady was inspired by the Holy Spirit throughout her life. She was faithful to her Son in this life and is now with Him in Heaven. Let us remember Mary as a true mother always interceding for us and who is our example and refuge in this valley of tears.

The following is a prayer from Tradition:

Mary greatest of our race,

Mother of Christ who rules forever

Many are her graces

She who is our protector.

The Feast of the Assumption is a holyday of obligation for all Catholics.  Beginning with the Vigil Masses on Thursday evening at 6.15pm and 7.00pm the Masses for this holyday follow our usual weekend timetable.

  

St. Fiacre’s Well Mass

The annual Novena and Mass to St. Fiacre will take place at the well  in Sheestown on Sunday, 31st August at 3.00pm.  All are welcome: please put the date in your diary and let your friends know.

Baptism

At least 2 weeks notice is required by the Parish in order to have a child baptised. Contact Michelle in the Parish Office 056 776 4400 to book.

 

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Nan Morrissey, Newpark Lawn.  Reposing at her daughter Marian Bradley’s house, 22, Cedarwood Ave.  Funeral Prayers on Sunday at 5pm followed by removal to St. John’s Church.  Funeral Mass, Monday 10.30am.  Internment in St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Colm O’Farrell, Talbot Place, Lakeside, Kilkenny (Requiem Mass, Friday 1pm, St. Joseph’s Foulkstown). Eileen Savage, USA.

Anniversaries: Jim & Margaret Bambrick (Sat 6.15). Jackie Coonan (Sat 7.00). Ellen McEvoy (Sun 9.30). Phil O’Neill (Sun 10.00). Annie Lennon (Sun 10.30). Martin Mulhall (Sun 11.00). Mary Coogan (Sun 12.00). Bridget Long (Fri 10.30). Christopher & Mary Ryan. Martin Doran. Pat Owens.

Intentions for Next Weekend:  Kathleen Brophy (Sat 6.15). Margaret Shanahan (Sat 7.00). Jim Drohan (Sun 10.00). Evelyn Hughes (Sun 12.00). Joe McHugh (Sun 12.30).

May they rest in peace.

  

Ministers of the Eucharist and Readers

We are blessed with a large number of Readers and Ministers of the Eucharist in our parish and long may that continue.  We appeal to those who have taken on these ministries to be faithful to their rotas.  At a number of Masses each week, some Ministers and Readers are missing on a regular basis.  This puts pressure on others to fill in their places and sometimes there is no one to step in.

If a Eucharistic Minister or Reader is unable to attend on a particular Sunday, we ask that they get a replacement, or at the very least let us know through the Parish Office (telephone or email). 

Likewise, if anyone is no longer able or willing to read, minister Holy Communion or serve, please let us know and we will make further arrangements.  Thank you for your cooperation and continued commitment to your ministry.

Getting Married?

Contact the Parish Office (056 776 4400) as early as possible to book your preferred date. (Booking is on a first-come-first-served basis).  Please note that it is a civil requirement to inform the Registrar of Births, Marriages and Deaths of your intention to marry at least three month’s before the date. 

Contact the parish where you now reside. That is where your pre-marriage papers will be prepared for forwarding to the place of marriage. A helpful website when getting married is www.gettingmarried.ie.

Certificate in Theological Studies

The course aims at providing religious education, faith formation and spiritual enrichment for those actively engaged in parish life or in the pastoral care of people, young and old.  The programme runs for 24 weeks from September 2014 to May 2015.  For details apply to Declan Murphy, St Kieran’s College 087 908 1470 or 056 775 3624 or email declanmurphy@ossory.ie

Sponsored Walk

Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge on Sunday 24^th August in aid of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. Walk starts at picnic tables in Maudlin Street @ 11.00am sharp. Registration @ 10.30am.  €10 entrance fee to the charity. Length: 11km each way.  Return lifts can be arranged.  Contact Aoife on 085 810 7890 for info and sponsorship cards.

 

South Kilkenny Historical Society

Coach trip to Clontarf and the Botanic Gardens, Dublin. Thursday, August 21st 2014. Bus departing Mullinavat at 8am, returning 10pm (approximately). Cost: €55, (€50, members), which includes bus fare, guided tours and evening meal in Dublin. For bookings and further information please contact Brigid: 051 885300, 087 9507295 or Eddie 086-8124349, edsynnott@yahoo.co.uk.

Leaving Certificate Results

We wish all those awaiting Leaving Certificate examination results on Wednesday all the very best.  We will pray for you at Masses during the week.

Thinking about Priesthood

You are invited to an awareness morning on the Diocesan Priesthood in St Mary's Cathedral Chapter Room on Saturday the 16th of August beginning at 11 am.  Deacon Rev Brian Griffin will give a talk on his journey to the Priesthood. No booking necessary.  Further information from: Fr. Willie Purcell 0876286858

 

CURA Volunteers

Cura crisis pregnancy support services provide free counselling and support from their Dean Street centre in Kilkenny. The centre will be holding an information meeting at 10am on September 3^rd for anyone interested in training to become a Cura counsellor. If you are interested in volunteering please call 056 7722 739 or visit www.cura.ie for more information.

Good Luck to the Cats

We join in wishing the Kilkenny hurling teams all the best in this weekend’s All Ireland Senior & Minor Hurling Semi Finals.  Special good wishes go to those from our parish involved with the teams.  Come on the Cats!

 

Loughboy Library

Kilkenny Arts Festival - celebrate at Loughboy by joining us for a reading by Josie Funchion on Fri Aug 15th at 2pm.

Summer Reading challenge - finishing on Aug 16th. Please return competed cards.

Newsletter Items

Please have notices, anniversaries, etc. into the Parish Office by Thursday at the latest.  After this date we cannot guarantee publication that weekend.  Leaving anniversaries in at churches, on altars and under sacristy doors will not guarantee they will make the newsletter in time.  Thanks for your cooperation.

 Parish Website

We re currently updating the parish website at www.patricksparish.com.  Please have a look and let us know what you think

Eigteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 3rd August 2014

Be With Us Jesus

During the month of August be with us, Jesus. The month of wheat, the beginning of harvest time, month of the mown fields, month of the ‘stubble moon’ – the brightest one of the year. The Pope’s intentions for this month are:

That refugees, forced by violence to abandon their homes, may find a generous welcome and the protection of their rights.

That Christians in Oceania may joyfully announce the faith to all the people of that region.

Next Wednesday, 6th August is the Feast of the Transfiguration and is celebrated worldwide.  Jesus confirmed the faith of apostles Peter, James and John in preparation for His Passion. “He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his garments became as white as the light.  Behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them talking with him.  Peter answered, and said to Jesus, ‘Lord, it is good for us to be here.  If you want, let us make three tents here: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.’  While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud  overshadowed them.  Behold, a voice came out of the cloud, saying, ‘This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to him.’ (Matthew 17:2-5).  In this way Jesus illustrated to the Apostles a little of the glory that awaits us because of the Resurrection, through Christ, true God and true Man.  Praise be to God.  Amen!

Public Rosary

The monthly rosary on the first Sunday in James Green at the statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny continues on this Sunday, 3rd August at 3.00pm.  All are welcome.

St. Rioch’s Cemetery Mass

The annual cemetery Mass in St. Rioch’s Cemetery, Walkin Street will take place on this Thursday, 7th August at 7.30pm.  If the weather is unsuitable the Mass will take place in the Capuchin Friary. This is one of the ancient cemeteries in our area and we appeal to as many as possible to attend.

Bank Holiday Weekend

This Monday, being a bank holiday, the only public Mass in the parish will be at 11.00am in St. Patrick’s church.  There will be no exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in St. Fiacre’s Church on account of people being away for the bank holiday.

Foulkstown Cemetery

Thanks to all who were involved in the annual cemetery  Mass at Foulkstown Cemetery on last Thursday.  It was a very prayerful celebration and we are grateful to all who worked to make it such a success.

A special word of thanks to the Cemetery Committee for their untiring work, not just for the Mass but throughout the year when they brave the elements to keep the resting place of our loved ones in fine shape.  

Many people have been complimentary of all the work that has taken place at the cemetery, the development of the new section plot (€22,000), the re-building of the stone wall (€10,000) and the laying of tarmac pathways (€8,000), all paid for by St. Patrick’s Parish and the annual cemetery Mass Collection.  We are committed to maintaining our cemetery and we are grateful to all for your support.

We continue our appeal for people to be vigilant against illegal dumping in Foulkstown Cemetery.  Take note of any suspicious activity, note any car registrations and let know in the Parish Office.  We will then take appropriate action with the civil authorities.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Months Mind: Michael Ruth (Sat 7.00).

Anniversaries: Eileen Grace (Sat 6.15). Davina Crosby (Sun 10.00). Mary Fahy (Sun 12.00).  Marie & Ann Marie Manogue (Tues 10.30). Mollie Gahan. Doreen Tallent. Margaret Tynan. Breda O’Hara.  Tommy McGuire.

Intentions for Next Weekend: Jim & Margaret Bambrick (Sat 6.15). Jackie Coonan (Sat 7.00). Phil O’Neill (Sun 10.00). Annie Lennon (Sun 10.30). Martin Mulhall (Sun 11.00). Mary Coogan (Sun 12.00).  May they rest in peace.

Pope Pleads for Peace

Pope Francis once again made an impassioned appeal for peace in the Middle East, Iraq and Ukraine. Addressing thousands of people in St. Peter’s Square on last Sunday Pope Francis recalled that the following day marked the 100^th anniversary of the outbreak of World War I.  “As we remember this tragic event, I hope that the mistakes of the past won’t be repeated, but that the lessons of history will be taken into account, so that peace always prevails through patient and courageous dialogue,” he said.

He prayed that God  grant the “peoples and leaders” in the Middle East, Iraq and Ukraine “the wisdom and strength to pursue the path of peace with determination and to face each dispute with the tenacity of dialogue and negotiation and the power of reconciliation.”  Every decision, he said, “must not be based on particular interests but on the common good and on respect for each person.  Remember that all is lost with war and nothing is lost with peace.”

Pope Francis – who had hosted Israeli and Palestinian leaders at a prayer meeting for peace at the Vatican in June — particularly decried the impact of the fighting on children.  “I think especially of the children whose hopes for a dignified future are taken from them, dead children, injured and mutilated children, orphans and children who have bits of weapons as toys, children who don’t know how to smile,” he said. “Please stop, I ask you with all my heart.”

St. Fiacre’s Well Mass

The annual Novena and Mass to St. Fiacre will take place at the well  in Sheestown on Sunday, 31st August at 3.00pm.  All are welcome: please put the date in your diary and let your friends know.

Carer Support Group

Family Carer Support group for past and present carers of people with Alzheimer's/Dementia meets on Wednesday, 6th August from 4.00 - 5.30pm at the Village Day Centre, 1 Fr Walsh Close, Cootes Lane, Kilkenny.  Information exchange and support.  For more information call Ruth on 056 777 1230.

Ministers of the Eucharist and Readers

We are blessed with a large number of Readers and Ministers of the Eucharist in our parish and long may that continue.  We appeal to those who have taken on these ministries to be faithful to their rotas.  At a number of Masses each week, some Ministers and Readers are missing on a regular basis.  This puts pressure on others to fill in their places and sometimes there is no one to step in.

If a Eucharist Minister or Reader is unable to attend we ask that they get a replacement or at the very least let us know through the Parish Office (telephone or email). 

Likewise, if anyone is no longer able or willing to read, minister Holy Communion or serve, please let us know and we will make further arrangements.  Thank you for your cooperation.

Certificate in Theological Studies

The course aims at providing religious education, faith formation and spiritual enrichment for those actively engaged in parish life or in the pastoral care of people, young and old.  The programme runs for 24 weeks from September 2014 to May 2015.  For details apply to Declan Murphy, St Kieran’s College 087 908 1470 or 056 775 3624 or email declanmurphy@ossory.ie

Step Back in Time

Come and enjoy an afternoon with the residents of Sacred Heart Nursing Home, Crosspatrick. “Step back in time” to recreate the days of the platform dance. Bucket collections and a raffle where all proceeds raised will be going towards the Kilkenny Alzheimer's society.  This Sunday from 3.00 - 6.00pm. Music by Danny. For more info call: 056 883 1318.

Sponsored Walk

Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge on Sunday 24^th August in aid of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. Walk starts at picnic tables in Maudlin Street @ 11.00am sharp. Registration @ 10.30am.  €10 entrance fee to the charity. Length: 11km each way.  Return lifts can be arranged.  Contact Aoife on 085 810 7890 for info and sponsorship cards.

South Kilkenny Historical Society

Coach trip to Clontarf and the Botanic Gardens, Dublin. Thursday, August 21st 2014. Bus departing Mullinavat at 8am, returning 10pm (approximately). Cost: €55, (€50, members), which includes bus fare, guided tours and evening meal in Dublin. For bookings and further information please contact Brigid: 051 885300, 087 9507295 or Eddie 086-8124349, edsynnott@yahoo.co.uk.

Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 27th July 2014

The Importance of Pilgrimage

Blessed are those who find their strength in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.  (Psalm 84:5)

Pilgrimage has always been part of our Celtic spirituality. The early Irish monks left Ireland to be pilgrims for Christ.  In early Christian Ireland, the greatest sacrifice and penance a monk could make, other than martyrdom, was voluntary exile, becoming a pilgrim for Christ’s sake.  Going on pilgrimage is still a popular devotion today. Many go on pilgrimage outside of Ireland. But we have many places of pilgrimage here in our own country. On this last Sunday in July thousands of people go on pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick. 

The best starting point for a pilgrimage is an openness to seeing life as a mystery. Mystery calls us to be filled with wonder and awe, to be open to the experience of God in the place of pilgrimage. It was on this holy mountain that Patrick had a close encounter with God.  We have read in our history books that here he prayed for Ireland and for the Irish people that we would remain faithful to the faith that God had given to us.  The pilgrimage to the Holy mountain reminds us of the pilgrimage of life, in the mystery of God leading us, inspiring us, as we journey towards Him.

To be a true pilgrim one must go with the eyes of the heart open to relish the wonder, the history and the beauty of the place. The true pilgrim is the one who can sit quietly and receive the beauty and wonder, to be able to gaze upon, to reverence and adore.  Whether it’s on Mayo’s holy mountain, in Lough Derg’s place of penance or just at the local St. Fiacre’s Well, to be a pilgrim means:

· To move slowly

· To seek treasures that do not rust

· To be comfortable with your heart’s questions

· To move towards the holy ground of God’s presence with empty hands and an open heart.

St. Fiacre's Well

The annual Mass at St. Fiacre’s Well in our parish will be on Sunday, 31st August at 3.00pm.

Foulkstown Cemetery Mass

Our annual Foulkstown Cemetery Mass will be celebrated on this Thursday 31st July at 7.30pm.  Please remind your relatives and friends, especially those who are living away from home.

Because of the anticipated heavy traffic we advise those who hope to attend the Cemetery Mass to start out early and to follow the instructions of the Gardai and the stewards.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Ivan Power, Laurel Drive. Nin Bligh, Circular Road. Kitty Larkin, Upper Patrick Street. Pat Murray, Riverview. Mary Clayton, Garden Villas.  Mary Murray, Rothe Terrace.  Patrick Doyle, Connolly Street.  Elizabeth McCarthy, Kickham Street.

Months Mind: Tom Rothwell (Sun 12.00)

Anniversaries: Chris Murphy (Sat 6.15). Vera Brannigan (Sat 7.00). Denis Treacy (Sun 10.00). Lilly Purcell (Sun 11.00). James & Mary Brennan (Sun 12.30). Gabriel Warde (Fri 10.30). Thomas & John Phelan. Edward & Anne Whelan. Sean & Kitty Ryan. John & Esther Loughnane. Delia O’Hara. Mary Tynan. Martin Doheny. Joseph Browne. Nancy Larkin, Jimmy & Billy Bourke.  Harry Emery.

Intentions for Next Weekend: Eileen Grace (Sat 6.15). Michael Ruth (Months Mind Sat 7.00). Davina Crosby (Sun 10.00). Annie Lennon (Sun 10.30). Mary Fahy (Sun 12.00).  May they rest in peace.

World War One Memorial Mass and Talk

To remember the thousands of people from Kilkenny City and County who left home and family to participate in “The Great War”, and to pray for the hundreds who never returned, a special Centenary Memorial Mass will be celebrated in St John’s Church next Wednesday, July 30^th, at 7.30pm. The speaker will be Mr Paddy Neary.  Wreath Laying by Bishop Séamus  Freeman and Mayor Andrew McGuinness.  Music by Thukolo Gospel Choir.  Refreshments afterwards in the Parish Social Centre. All are welcome.

Let Us Pray for Peace in the World

“The death and destruction that we are witnessing in certain parts of the Middle East is truly shocking and heart-breaking. I encourage all Christians and all people of goodwill to pray for an end to the conflicts in Iraq, in Syria, in Palestine, and in Israel.” 

Bishop John McAreavey

The images of death and destruction emerging daily from these places are all the more distressing when we consider the rich cultural and religious heritage of this region and, in particular, its deep spiritual significance to the Abrahamic faiths. The violence and devastation of these days shows the horror that is unleashed when differences of faith and identity are allowed to obscure the bonds of our common humanity.

The plight of persecuted and endangered Christian communities in the Middle East is a particular challenge to the whole world.  Pope Francis has said: “Dear brothers and sisters who are so persecuted, I know how much you suffer, I know that you are stripped of everything. I am with you in the faith of the one who has conquered evil!”

Pope Francis has also said: “Prayer helps us not let ourselves be defeated by evil or resign ourselves to violence and hatred having the upper hand over dialogue and reconciliation”. I therefore invite everybody to join in solidarity with all who are suffering in the Middle East and to pray, both personally and at Masses, for peace and justice in these lands.”

Day of Prayer for World Peace

Please pray with us at the Capuchin Friary Church, Kilkenny on next Friday, 1st August from 11.00am to 5.30pm.  This call is for everybody!

Church Gate Collection

St. Patrick’s Parish Lourdes Fund will hold its annual church gate collection at all  Masses next weekend. The organisers wish to express their appreciation for the support within the parish which enabled them to send eight ill or deserving parishioners to Lourdes on this year’s diocesan pilgrimage. 

Samaritans - Kilkenny/Carlow

We welcome representatives of the Samaritans to all our Masses this weekend.  They will briefly explain their work and seek your support.

In celebration of World Mental Health Week Samaritans would like to highlight our new free telephone number 116 123.  Samaritans provide a listening service in the community, we operate this service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

We would also like to extend an invitation to all to visit the Samaritan Centre in Dean Street, Kilkenny on this Sunday, 27^th July between 18.30 and 20.00. Volunteers will be very happy to show you around the centre and answer any of your questions.

Youth 2000 Summer Festival

This will be held at Cistercian College, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary from Thursday, 14th to Sunday, 17th August. For young people aged 16 – 35 years. Free buses will run from towns throughout Ireland. For information and booking: www.youth2000.ie or 01 675 3690. 

Certificate in Theological Studies

The course aims at providing religious education, faith formation and spiritual enrichment for those actively engaged in parish life or in the pastoral care of people, young and old. The programme is a Level 7 Certificate accredited by St Patrick’s College, Maynooth. It provides a solid foundation for any of these fields of ministry and a suitable springboard for further specialisation. Above all it helps create confidence and conviction for future volunteers in the life of the parish and the church. 

The programme runs for 24 weeks from September 2014 to May 2015.  For details apply to Declan Murphy, St Kieran’s College 087 908 1470 or 056 775 3624 or email declanmurphy@ossory.ie

Hour of Adoration for Young People

There is an hour of Adoration and Prayer for Young People on every Sunday at 7.30pm in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, St. Mary’s Cathedral.  This is for people of secondary school age and upwards. Contact Sean on 086 371 5882 for more information.

Carlow County Museum

Visit Carlow County Museum and get a snapshot of the county’s great history. View our special temporary exhibition: ‘Journeys in Time: The Archaeology of the Carlow By-pass’ which has objects on loan from the National Museum of Ireland. Exhibition ‘An Ghaeilge I gCeatharlach 1889-2014’: The story of Irish in Carlow for over 100 Years.  Officially opened by Micheál Ó Muirchearthaigh. Why not pop in and explore the History of Irish in Carlow.  June to August opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 5.00pm; Sundays and Bank Holidays  2.00pm to 4.30 pm. Free admission. Carlow County Museum & Carlow Tourist Office, College Street, Carlow Town. Tel: 059 913 1554.