1st Sunday of Lent, 22nd February 2015

First Sunday of Lent

Today’s Gospel tells us briefly of Jesus temptation by Satan in the wilderness, a time which seems to set him up for his public ministry.  The account is at the very start of the Gospel of Mark, which was written for the early Christians who had been through a painful experience of persecution.  Perhaps these followers of Jesus would have been comforted to know that Jesus too had been through harrowing times.

Around the world there are many who still suffer for their faith.  In many parts of the world, admitting to one’s faith as a Christian can lead to persecution, homelessness, torture, imprisonment or even death.  Yet there are brave men, women and children who continue to profess their faith and to meet together for worship, in spite of the dangers facing them.  Pope Francis has continually called for an end to Christian persecution, particularly in the Middle East where over 250,000 Iraqi Christians have been forced to flee their own country.

This Lent, why not make a special effort to remember and pray for those who are suffering for their faith in different parts of the world?

The news coming from Iraq pains me. Lord, teach us to live in solidarity with all those who suffer... An appeal to all families: when you say your prayers, remember all those forced from their homes in Iraq. Pope Francis.

Lenten Text Message

Those who would like to receive a free daily inspirational text to a mobile phone should simply send the number to Ossory Adult Faith Development Group at 085 831 3100 or email afd@ossory.ie or telephone 056 775 3624.

Medugorje Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage travels from 12^th - 19^th of April. Cost is €599. Full religious programme included.  Contact: Sean Hickey on 086 371 5882.

Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2015

The diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes takes place from 22^nd  to 27^th May.  Cost is  €755pps.  All bookings at Glenmore Parish Office on 051 880 414.

Extra Parish Mass for Lent

Each weekday, Monday to Friday, we have an evening Mass for Lent at St. Fiacre’s Church.  This is provided as a way of helping people in their Lenten journey.  You are welcome to join us.

A Parish Evening of Prayer

You are invited to join with neighbours and friends from St. Patrick’s Parish for an Evening of Prayer at Peace in Christ Retreat House, Sion Road on this Tuesday 24^th February.  Peace in Christ has provided guided prayer, retreats, vigils, parish evenings and other spiritual direction since its inception in 1967. Sadly the retreat house is to close this summer so this may be our last opportunity to enjoy the welcome provided by the sisters and staff. Please join in this parish celebration on Tuesday. The evening starts at 8.00pm and concludes at 10.30pm. Booking is important: please contact the Parish Centre on 056 776 4400.

St. Mary’s Cathedral Restoration

Bishop Séamus recently launched the St. Mary’s Cathedral Restoration Fund Draw with the first draw taking place on 25^th March. Subscription is €10 per month with an annual prize fund of €60,000.

St. Mary’s Cathedral is the ‘mother church’ of Ossory and it is expected that each parish community will play its part in restoring our magnificent cathedral. Your support is needed. To subscribe please contact the Parish Office, the sacristies or one of the priests.  We are also in need of promoters to take cards and recruit subscribers.  Please contact one of the priests or the Parish Office if you can help in this regard.

Meet Others Bereaved by Suicide

Kilkenny Bereavement Support will host six nights of Group Support for Adults Bereaved by Suicide.  It will begin on this Tuesday at 8.00pm at Villa Maria, Talbot’s Inch, Freshford Road.

The group will provide the bereaved with the experience of a safe and comforting place where they will receive the support of fellow bereaved.   For information please call 056 775 6538 or 087 961 0334.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Sadie McGrath, 54 St. Fiacre’s Place.  Rosary on Wednesday at 8.00pm in Johnston’s Funeral Home. Funeral Prayers on Thursday at 10.00am followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church for Requiem Mass at 11.00am. Interment afterwards in Foulkstown Cemetery. Eileen Goss, St. Francis Terrace. Lar Foley, Waterford Road. Lydia White, Dundalk. Nora Glavey, Knock. Maureen Dowling, Dominic Street. Joanie Morrissey, Muckalee.

Months Mind: Julia Phelan (Sun 10.30). 

Anniversaries: Nicky Healy (Sat 6.15). Stephen Bennett (Sat 7.00). Kitty Morris (Sun 9.30). John Walsh (Sun 10.00).  Mollie Johnston (Sun 11.00). Rita & Patrick O’Rourke (Sun 12.00). John Collins (Sun 12.30). Eileen Connolly (Mon 9.30). Roger & Agnes Harty (Tue 9.30). Michael & Ann Purcell (Tues 10.30). Ann & Michael Kelly (Tues 6.15). Michael Murphy (Wed 9.30). Michael & Mary Muldowney (Wed 10.30). Tom & Rita McCarthy (Thurs 10.30). John & Bridget O’Rourke (Fri 10.30). Jimmy Gahan. Stan Landers. Michael Drennan. Ellen Doyle.  Catherine Cullen. Patrick & Elizabeth Fry. Margaret Rowe. Paddy Barry.  Anne & Martin Mulhall. Deirdre McGuinness. Mary Fitzpatrick.

Intentions for Next Weekend: Bridget & Tommy Casey (Sat 6.15). Joseph Lawlor (Sat 7.00). Mary O’Brien (Sun 9.30). David Maher (Sun 10.00). Pat Adams (Sun 10.30). Derek Tyrrell (Months Mind Sun 11.00). John & Ann Waldron (Sun 12.00). Canice & Michael Dunphy (Sun 12.30).

Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes

St. Patrick’s Parish Lourdes Committee is inviting applications from parishioners for a sponsored place on this year’s Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes.  Please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400 if you know somebody who is ill, elderly or going through a difficult time and who would be interested.

Kilkenny SPCA Cake and Book Sale

A cake and book sale will take place in St. Patrick’s Parish Centre on this Sunday from 11.00am to 1.00pm.  Please support.

Youth Pilgrimage to Knock

Pope John Paul II Youth Pilgrimage to Knock: Young people aged 16 – 20 are invited to participate in a Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine on Saturday, 14^th March 2015. Cost €20 payable to John Paul II Account, c/o St. Mary’s Parish Office, James’ Street, Kilkenny. Leaving Kilkenny: 7.30am sharp. Pick up points can be arranged.  Director: Fr Willie Purcell.

Brass and Reed Band Concert

St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band will appear in concert in the Watergate Theatre on Wednesday, 11^th March at 8.00pm. Admission €10.  The band will be joined by “Tweed” who are currently enjoying a successful tour of Ireland.

School of the Holy Spirit

There will be a church gate collection for the School of the Holy Spirit (Special Education School) at all Masses next weekend.  We would very much appreciate any help you can give.  Thank you.

IPT Cake Sale

The Irish Pilgrimage Trust will hold a cake sale in the Parish Centre after all St. Fiacre’s Church Masses next weekend.  Please help send a young person with special needs to Lourdes at Easter.

Debt Worries Wearing You Down?

Kilkenny Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) is concerned with difficulties being faced by many people with mortgage and debt issues. MABS is now offering a free intermediary service to assess people for Debt Relief Notices - one of the options for dealing with debt under the Personal Insolvency Act 2012. Staff at Kilkenny MABS have a new role under the act as Approved Intermediaries with The Insolvency Service of Ireland and can administer these DRNs. The Insolvency Service of Ireland has waived any fee for a DRN.

Kilkenny MABS is a Free, Confidential and Independent Service funded through CIB.  MABS, 8 William Street, Kilkenny 076 107 2610 or Kilkenny@mabs.ie

Alzheimer’s Society

Family carer training for family carers of people living with Alzheimer's disease/Dementia. 5 week Course. Held in The Village Day Centre Kilkenny each Tuesday from 6.00pm-8.30pm, Starting Tuesday 24th February. Course covers information on dementia and caring for the person with dementia. For more information and to sign up please contact Ruth on 056 7771230.

Go for Life

Go for Life is the national programme for sport and physical activity for older people in Ireland. It is run by over 1,200 volunteers who we call PALs. A PAL is a Physical Activity Leader who is already part of a group or club and is willing to lead activities.  The training is a 5hr workshop, run over 8wks which starts in March. Costs €20 and includes lunch. If you would like to become a leader contact Michelle, at Kilkenny Sports Partnership at 056 7794990 or click www.iregister/krsp for more information.

Starburst Easter Camp

30th, 31st March & 1st April. Art, Drama, Music & Games. Suitable for children aged 4-12 years. Contact Kate on 0851142686 for more details. 

Koemba Parenting

Beginning at 7:30pm on Tuesday, 24^th February in St Patrick’s Parish Centre: Connecting and Communicating With Your Child. Facilitated by parenting expert and author Val Mullally.  www.koemba.com  or  087 760 9355. 

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 15th February 2015

Ash Wednesday - Lent Begins

Ash Wednesday occurs this week and is the beginning of the Season of Lent.  At our morning Masses we will bless ashes and begin our Lenten observance.   Please note that pupils from our local schools may be present for the distribution of ashes at 9.30am and 10.30am Masses.  If you wish to avoid the large crowds, we have an evening Mass at 6.15pm in St. Fiacre’s Church.

Extra Mass for Lent

As mentioned above, starting on Wednesday there will be an evening Mass at St. Fiacre’s Church at 6.15pm on each weekday of Lent.

Pope Francis’ Message for Lent 2015

Pope Francis’ Message for Lent was published by the Vatican on the theme ‘Make Your Hearts Firm’ (James 5:8). The full text is available at www.irishbishops.ie and on our Facebook page.

Do Something Special this Lent!

Many people choose to abstain from alcohol for the duration of Lent.  Take this opportunity to help someone you love with an alcohol or drug problem by offering up your sacrifice as a prayer for their freedom and wellbeing.  Take the Short-Term Pledge and make a difference to someone’s life!  Visit www.pioneerassociation.ie or contact Fr. Liam on 056 776 4400.

Lent Text Message

This Lent why not have a short daily message sent to your mobile phone - a line of scripture or a thought for the day.  This will come at no cost to you.  If you would like to receive these daily texts text your mobile number to the Ossory Adult Faith Development Group at 085 831 3100 or email afd@ossory.ie or telephone 056 775 3624 or write your mobile number on the sheets provided at the back of the church.

Trócaire Family Fast Boxes

The annual Trócaire Lenten Appeal begins on Wednesday.  Trocaire Boxes are available at the back of all our churches as a way of helping the needy.  Please do take one and use it during Lent.

 

Parish Pastoral Council

A meeting of the Parish Pastoral Council will take place on Monday, 16^th February at 8.00pm in the Parish Centre.  Members are asked to attend.

An Evening of Prayer

You are invited to join with neighbours and friends from St. Patrick’s Parish for an Evening of Prayer at Peace in Christ Retreat House, Sion Road on Tuesday 24^th February.  Peace in Christ has provided guided prayer, retreats, vigils, parish evenings and other spiritual direction since its inception in 1967. Sadly the retreat house is to close this summer so this may be our last opportunity to enjoy the welcome provided by the sisters and staff. Please consider joining in this parish celebration on Tuesday week. The evening starts at 8.00pm and concludes at 10.30pm.  Booking is important: please contact the Parish Centre on 056 776 4400.

Altar Servers

We are currently compiling a new rota for Altar Servers in all our churches.  If your son or daughter would like to become a server at any of our Masses and has made their First Holy Communion please contact Michelle in the Parish Office on 056 776 4400.

Meet Others Bereaved by Suicide

Kilkenny Bereavement Support will host six nights of Group Support for Adults Bereaved by Suicide in recent times or in the past.  It will take place on Tuesday nights commencing on 24^th February at 8.00pm at Villa Maria, Talbot’s Inch, Freshford Road.

The group will provide the bereaved with the experience of a safe and comforting place where they will receive the support of fellow bereaved.  The group experience will help participants to understand the grieving process, remember the deceased and discuss coping strategies for difficult times, e.g., special dates and events.  For more information please call 056 775 6538 or 087 961 0334.

Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2015

The diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes takes place from 22^nd  to 27^th May.  Cost is  €755pps.  All bookings at Glenmore Parish Office on 051 880 414.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Joseph Barry, St. Joseph’s Road. Requiem Mass at St. Canice’s Church at 11.30am on Sunday.  Mick Loftus, Castlecomer Road. Maura Wall, Gortnahoe. Leo Ryan, late of Kilkenny & Bedford who died in Spain.  Funeral arrangements later.

Anniversaries: Tom Kavanagh (Sat 6.15). Michael Walsh & Milo Burke (Sat 7.00). Peggy Shanahan (Sun 9.30). Mickey, Mary & Liam Costelloe (Sun 10.00). Fr. Joe O’Shea (Sun 10.30). Eileen Cummins (Sun 11.00). Paddy Burke (Sun 12.00). Ursula Maher (Sun 12.30). Anne, Johnnie Snr, Tommy, Johnnie Jnr & Miley Delaney (Tues 9.30). Jenny Clancy (Thurs 6.15). Tim & Sarah Drea (Fri 10.30). Philomena Somers (Fri 6.15).  Billy Ayres. Peter & Jimmy Browne.  Seamus Culleton. John O’Rourke. JJ Murphy. Michael Dargan. Colm Kennedy. John & Bridget Dunne. Ann Somers.

Intentions for Next Weekend: Nicky Healy (Sat 6.15). Stephen Bennett (Sat 7.00). Kitty Morris (Sun 9.30). John Walsh (Sun 10.00).  Julia Phelan (Months Mind 10.30).  Molay Johnston (Sun 11.00). Rita O’Rourke (Sun 12.00). John Collins (Sun 12.30).

Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes

St. Patricks Lourdes Committee is now inviting applications from parishioners for a sponsored place on this year’s Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes on May 22^nd to May 27^th.  Please contact the Parish Office on 056 776 4400 if you know somebody who is ill, elderly or going through a difficult time and who would be interested.

Medugorje Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage travels from 12th - 19th of April. Cost is €599. Full religious programme included.  Contact: Sean Hickey on 086 371 5882.

Redefinition of Marriage/Rights of Children

A talk on ‘The Redefinition of Marriage and the Rights of Children’ will take place on Monday, 16^th February at 7.30pm in the Marshal Pembroke Suite at the River Court Hotel.  Talk presented by Dr. Tom Finegan and Paddy Manning.  All welcome!

Journey into Freedom

‘Giving God Another Chance’: For the six Thursdays of Lent starting 19^th February in the Capuchin Friary, Kilkenny we will be holding the ‘Journey into Freedom’ course. This comprises of talks, testimonies, discussions, songs and prayer leading towards greater meaning and peace in your life.  Starts at 7.30pm and finishes at 9.00pm. Hosted by Parish Cells in Ossory.

St. Mary’s Cathedral Restoration

Bishop Séamus has launched the St. Mary’s Cathedral Restoration Fund Draw with the first draw taking place in March. Subscription is €10 per month with an annual prize fund of €60,000.

St. Mary’s Cathedral is the ‘mother church’ of Ossory and it is expected that each parish community will play its part in restoring our magnificent cathedral. Your help is needed. To subscribe please contact the Parish Office or one of the priests.  We are also in need of promoters to take cards and recruit subscribers.  Please contact one of the priests or the Parish Office if you can help.

Clothing Appeal

A clothing appeal in aid of Friends of Calcutta, will take place in the Parish Centre Car Park on this Thursday from 4.00 - 6.00pm.   (www.friendsofcalcutta.net)

Lent: A Time of Preparation

The Gospels tell us that Jesus often left the crowds and spent some time alone praying to the Father. We ought to follow His example.  During Lent the Church invites us to turn towards God and away from sin.  It is a time  of forty days in preparation for the Resurrection of Jesus at Easter.  It is one of the most important seasons in the liturgical year in which we are invited to pray, repent and practise self denial.  At the beginning of Lent, we are asked to examine our lives, to see if we are serious about following Christ and faithful to our faith.

Let us welcome Lent because it gives an opportunity to repent of our sins and follow the example of Christ who will be with us every step of the way.

Lenten Resources available at www.ossory.ie

Spring Literature Course

Part 2 of our evening course exploring the work of Seamus Heaney and William Trevor begins on Thursday, 19^th February.  Newcomers welcome. Classes from 7.00 to 9.00pm at Kilkenny Campus, located at St. Kieran’s College.  Six-week course fee €100. To book, please email margaret.irish@nuim.ie or call 086 393 5513.

Starburst Easter Camp

30th, 31st March & 1st April. Art, Drama, Music & Games. Suitable for children aged 4-12 years. Contact Kate on 0851142686 for more details. 

Irish Hospice Foundation

Get on your bike for the Irish Hospice Foundation this June. Call 890 717 000 or www.hospicefoundation.ie.

Koemba Parenting

Beginning at 7:30pm on Tuesday, 24^th February in St Patrick’s Parish Centre: Connecting and Communicating With Your Child. Facilitated by parenting expert and author Val Mullally.  www.koemba.com  or  087 760 9355. 

Kilkenny Search and Recovery

KSAR would like to sincerely thank you for your financial support and your kind words of appreciation during their recent church gate collection.  KSAR provide a voluntary service to the community.

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary TIme, 8th February 2015

World Day of Prayer for the Sick

Wednesday, 11^th February is World Day of the Sick, an observation started by Pope John Paul II as a way for believers to offer prayers for those suffering from illnesses of any kind.  The day coincides with the commemoration of Our Lady of Lourdes.  On this day people around the world take the time to pray for the sick and for those who work very hard to alleviate the sufferings of the sick.  Here in our parish we will include special prayers for the sick at all Masses.

The Kilkenny Solemn Novena

The annual Kilkenny Solemn Novena continues in St. John’s Parish until Wednesday, 11th February.  Services at usual Mass times on Sundays and on weekdays at 7.30am, 10.30am and 7.30pm each day.  There is a space and a place for all.  All welcome.

St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society

A meeting of the St. Patrick’s Parish branch of the society will be held in the Parish Centre on this Friday, 13^th February at 11.00am following the 10.30am Mass in St. Fiacre’s Church.  All welcome.

The Ossory meeting of the St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place in the Chapter House, St. Mary’s Cathedral on Thursday, 12^th February beginning with Mass in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel at 7.30pm. Mass will be celebrated by Fr. Willie Purcell.  All members are welcome to attend.

Journey into Freedom

Giving God Another Chance: For the six Thursdays of Lent starting 19^th February in the Capuchin Friary in Kilkenny we will be holding the “Journey into Freedom” course. The course comprises of talks, testimonies, discussions, songs and prayer leading towards greater meaning and peace in your life.  Each evening starts at 7.30pm and finishes at 9.00pm. The course is hosted by the Parish Cells in Ossory.

Al-Anon

The Wednesday meeting has moved from Kilkenny Social Service Centre to St. Patrick’s Parish Centre from 12.30 - 2.00pm.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased:  Pat Langton, Dunamaggin and Kilkenny.  Requiem Mass at St. Leonard’s Church, Dunamaggin at 12 noon on Monday. Burial afterwards in Clara.  Stephanie O’Meara, St. Patrick’s Centre, Kells Road and Waterford.  Funeral prayers at St. Patrick’s Centre, Kells Road at 5.00pm on Monday followed by removal to the Holy Family Church, Waterford.  Requiem Mass at 11.00am on Tuesday.  Josephine Morrison, Bishop Birch Place and Callan.  Joe Lambe, Castlecomer Road.  Elizabeth Dunne, Ballacolla, Co. Laois. Bridget Freeman, Callan.  Jimmy Bradley, St. Francis Terrace. Jack Moran, Texas and formerly 3 Chapel Avenue.  John Andrews, Bishops Hill. Dr. Maura Walsh, Rathdowney and formerly Woodlawn.

Months Mind: Jack Byrne (Wed 10.30).

Anniversaries: Teresa Howe, William & Margaret Howe & Mary Mullally (Sat 6.15). Noeleen Flood (Sat 7.00). Rory Quinn (Sun 10.00). Pat Kearney (Sun 10.30). Kathleen O’Neill (Sun 11.00). Peter Quinn (Sun 12.00). Mary McHugh (Sun 12.30).  Philly & Statia Grace (Tues 10.30). Daniel Cody (Fri 10.30).  John & Annie Free. Liam Bergin. John O’Keeffe.  Dr. Richard Purcell. Ellen Egan. Paddy Burke.  Patrick Walsh. Fintan Phelan.  Kathleen Maher. Bill Carroll. Tom & Gretta Phelan, Kit Carroll. Christopher Walsh.  Moya Bligh.  Thomas & Elizabeth Hayes.

Intentions for Next Weekend:  Tom Kavanagh (Sat 6.15). Michael Walsh & Milo Burke (Sat 7.00). Peggy Shanahan (Sun 9.30). Mickey, Mary & Liam Costelloe (Sun 10.00). Fr. Joe O’Shea (Sun 10.30). Eileen Cummins (Sun 11.00). Paddy Burke (Sun 12.00). Ursula Maher (Sun 12.30).

 

Our Lady of Lourdes Triduum

Wednesday, 11th February is the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.  See www.lourdes-france.org.

The annual Triduum in honour of Our Lady of Lourdes will take place at the Black Abbey from Wednesday, 11^th to Friday, 13^th February at 10.15am and 7.15pm daily.  Preacher is Fr. Tim Mulcahy OP.  All welcome.  Details: www.blackabbey.ie/triduum.

 

St. Mary’s Cathedral Restoration

To help finance the restoration of St. Mary’s Cathedral, the Mother Church of our Diocese, Bishop Séamus Freeman has announced the Diocese of Ossory Cathedral Restoration Draw.  This monthly draw will be launched at the Chapter Room, St. Mary’s Cathedral at 8.00pm on Tuesday, 10^th February.  Tickets will cost €10 per month or €120 per annum.  The prize fund will be €6,000 per month.  In a letter this week Bishop Séamus has invited priests and people of St. Patrick’s Parish to the launch of the draw on Tuesday.  Draw tickets will be available at St. Patrick’s Parish Office following the launch. We encourage your support for our diocesan cathedral.

Meet Others Bereaved by Suicide

Kilkenny Bereavement Support will host six nights of Group Support for Adults Bereaved by Suicide in recent times or in the past.  It will take place on Tuesday nights commencing on 24^th February at 8.00pm at Villa Maria, Talbot’s Inch, Freshford Road, Kilkenny.

The Group will provide the bereaved with the experience of a safe and comforting place where they will receive the support of fellow bereaved.  The group experience will help participants to understand the grieving process, remember the deceased and discuss coping strategies for difficult times, e.g., special dates and events.  For more information please call 056 775 6538 or 087 961 0334.

Taizé Diocesan Youth Pilgrimage

The third youth pilgrimage to Taizé in France organised by Ossory Youth and under the patronage of the Bishop of Ossory will take place from 16^th to 23^th August 2015.

The pilgrimage is open to TY, 5^th Year and LC students.  Closing date for applications is Friday, 13^th February. For information, including application forms: Joseph Mguni, at 056 776 1200  or 087 937 9546.

Kilkenny Flower Club

Kilkenny Flower Club will resume meetings on Thursday 12^th February in Butler House at 8.00pm. €8 for visitors who will be welcome to attend.

Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2015

The annual diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes under the Patronage of Bishop Séamus Freeman takes place from 22^nd  to 27^th May.  Cost is  €755pps.  All bookings for both regular and assisted pilgrims please contact: Glenmore Parish Office on 051 880 414 or email glenmore@ossory.ie Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 10.00am - 2.30pm & Friday 9.15am – 12.15pm (closed Wednesday).

Medugorje Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage travels from 12^th - 19^th of April 2015. Cost is €599 inclusive of flights, transfers, accommodation, bed, breakfast, dinner, and the facilities of local guides. Full religious programme included.  For further information contact: Sean Hickey on 086 371 5882.

Koemba Parenting

Beginning at 7:30pm on Tuesday, 24^th February in St Patrick’s Parish Centre: Connecting and Communicating With Your Child. Facilitated by parenting expert and author Val Mullally.  www.koemba.com  or  087 760 9355. 

Spanish Teacher

Available for beginners, medium or advance. Please email: sandzel@hotmail.com or contact 086 441 1605 or 056 780 5564 or  visit www.espansanz.wordpress.com

Spring Literature Course

Part 2 of our evening course exploring the work of Seamus Heaney and William Trevor begins on Thursday, 19^th February.  Newcomers welcome. Classes from 7.00 to 9.00pm at Kilkenny Campus, located at St. Kieran’s College.  Six-week course fee €100. To book, please email margaret.irish@nuim.ie or call 086 393 5513.

Kilkenny Search and Recovery

KSAR would like to sincerely thank you for your financial support and your kind words of appreciation during their recent church gate collection.  KSAR provide a voluntary service to the community.

Irish Hospice Foundation

Get on your bike for the Irish Hospice Foundation this June. Call 890 717 000 or www.hospicefoundation.ie.

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time. 1st February 2015

St. Brigid – a Woman for our Time

At the present time as we constantly hear stories of global warming and of the damage being done to the earth many people are looking for a spirituality that is inclusive of all creation. St Brigid, with her closeness to nature, makes her very appealing to all people. Those who are concerned about the environment and the future of the earth are inspired by the reverence she showed for all creation. She is being invoked to heal our wounds and green our earth.

St. Brigid was also the foundress of monastic life in Ireland. As abbess of the monastery in Kildare she played a significant role in society and in the church of her time. She was a model of equality and is a powerful symbol of womanhood revealing in many ways the compassionate and feminine face of God.

During the Year of Consecrated Life the Pope is asking all men and women religious to constantly thank God who has called them to follow Jesus. He asks them to reflect on the Gospel and to fully embrace its message and to be witnesses of God's love and mercy throughout the world.

In St Brigid we have the model of someone who lived the Gospel message by her love for God and for all God's people especially the poor and by her love for all creation.

Brigid is known as Mary of the Gael and she is one of Ireland’s patron saints. She was born in Faughart near Dundalk in 451 AD. There are wells dedicated to St. Bridget throughout the country.

St. Brigid’s Day Service

The annual St. Brigid’s Day Service will be held at St. Fiacre’s Church at 7.30pm on this Sunday evening.  Water from the well of St. Brigid in Kildare and red flannel will be available at the service.  Music ministry by the Kilkenny Gospel Choir.

Senior Citizens’ Party

Many thanks to all who attended and helped out at our annual Senior Citizens’ Party on last Monday evening.  A great night was enjoyed by all.  A special word of thanks to Marble City Swingers for the music.

Presentation of the Lord - Candlemas Day

This feast is celebrated on Monday, 2nd February.  Our Lady offered her Son to God in the temple. As was the Jewish custom, she also offered pigeons, a sign of her purgation. Simeon was happy as he took the child in his arms and thanked God. Anna was also in the temple and she believed and praised God.

Candles are blessed on this day to remind us that Jesus is the light of the world. Candles (for church and home use) will be blessed at all Masses in the parish.  Please place any personal/family candles on the table near the altar before Mass.

St. Blaise , Bishop and Martyr

St. Blaise, whose feast is celebrated on Tuesday, is the patron of those with sore throats and of sick cattle. He was a physician before becoming a bishop. The blessing of St. Blaise, which will be celebrated during all Masses in the parish on Tuesday, is a sign of our faith in God’s protection and love for us and for the sick.

Through the intercession of St. Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God deliver you from all ailments of the throat and from every other evil, in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

First Friday Visits

Frs. Dan and Liam will be making their calls on this Friday, 6th February.  Fr. Roderick will attend as arranged with those he visits regularly.  Let us know in the office if you would like to be included.

The Kilkenny Solemn Novena

The annual Kilkenny Solemn Novena takes place in St. John’s Parish from this Tuesday, 3rd February to Wednesday, 11th February.  Services at usual Mass times on Sundays and on weekdays at 7.30am, 10.30am and 7.30pm each day.  There will be a number of special events during the novena: Mass and Sacrament of Reconciliation at 7.30pm on Thursday; Mass for children, parents and grandparents at 11.45am on Friday.  Mass led by Young People at 7.30pm on Friday. There is a space and a place for all.  Everyone is welcome.  For further details see flyers in our parish churches.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Peter Garrehy, 2 Sion Meadows, Sion Road. Reposing at his home from 2.00pm on Sunday with rosary at 7.00pm.  Funeral prayers at 11.00am on Monday followed by removal to St. Fiacre’s Church for Requiem Mass at 12.00 noon. Burial afterwards at St. Michael’s Cemetery, Danesfort.  Michael Lanigan, Old Callan Road. Requiem Mass at 11.00am on Sunday at St. Mary’s Cathedral. Burial afterwards at Foulkstown Cemetery. Christina Lenehan, Freshford Road. Rosa Henry, Broguemaker's Hill. Mary Renehan, Kilree.  Mary Mahon, Bennettsbridge. Mary Parker, Assumption Place.

Months Mind: Sr. Brigid Leech (Sat 7.00). Loretta Barr (Sun 10.30).

Anniversaries: Michael White (Sat 6.15). John & Ellen McDonald (Sun 9.30). Lil, Billy & Eamon Costelloe (Sun 10.00). Jim Loughlin (Sun 11.00). Billy Clune (Sun 12.00). Michael Moore (Sun 12.30). Patrick O’Keeffe (Tues 10.30). Con Noonan (Wed 10.30). Daniel ‘Algie’ Lanigan (Thurs 10.30). Rory Quinn (Fri 10.30). Sean O’Grady (Sat 9.30). Jimmy O’Neill. William Culleton. James Hayes. John Quigley. Anne Delaney.  Thomas Traynor..  Maura Gaffney, Annie Ruth.  James & Mary Hogan.

Intentions for Next Weekend: Teresa Howe, William & Margaret Howe & Mary Mullally (Sat 6.15). Noeleen Flood (Sat 7.00). Rory Quinn (Sun 10.00). Kathleen O’Neill (Sun 11.00). Peter Quinn (Sun 12.00). Mary McHugh (Sun 12.30).

Bridge

Come and enjoy a game of bridge every Tuesday at St. Patrick’s Parish Centre from 2.30pm.  Everyone welcome. No partner required.

Taizé Diocesan Youth Pilgrimage

The third youth pilgrimage to Taizé in France organised by Ossory Youth and under the patronage of the Bishop of Ossory will take place from 16^th to 23^th August 2015.

The pilgrimage is open to TY, 5^th Year and LC students.  Closing date for applications is Friday, 13^th February. For information, including application forms: Joseph Mguni, at 056 776 1200  or 087 937 9546.

Coeliac Support Group

The next meeting of the Kilkenny Coeliac Support will take place in St. Patrick's Parish Centre, Loughboy on Monday next, February 2nd at 8.00pm. Any person affected by this disease or looking for information is welcome to attend. Tá fáilte roimh gach duine chuig an gcruinniú seo. 

Mill Hill Fathers

A Mass in honour of St Joseph will take place at 8.00pm on the first Wednesday of every month in the Mill Hill Chapel, Waterford Road. The next Mass will be on Wednesday 4th  February. Please join with us.

Westcourt News

The monthly Mass to pray for the intercession of Blessed Edmund Rice in our lives and for his canonisation will take place in Westcourt on Monday, 2^nd February at 7.30pm.  All are welcome.

Art Classes

Art Classes in Watercolour Painting with Mary Dillon. 'Let your creativity flow...!' start at St. Patrick's Parish Centre on Wednesday, 4th February at 10.30am. Contact Mary on 087 222 4260 or dillonmary@eircom.net

Irish Hospice Foundation

Get on your bike for the Irish Hospice Foundation this June (21^st-27^th) and join former professional cyclist Paul Kimmage on the Genoa to Rome cycle challenge.  Register before 13th March: call 890 717 000 or www.hospicefoundation.ie for more information.

Carers Association Open Day

There is an Open Day in the Carers Association Kilkenny on 5^th February from 10.30am to 12.30pm.  All are invited.

Young at Heart

The Young at Heart Club returns on Wednesday  4th February from 2.30pm - 4.30pm in the Parish Centre.

Koemba Parenting

Beginning at 7:30pm on Tuesday, 24th February in St Patrick’s Parish Centre: Connecting and Communicating With Your Child. Facilitated by parenting expert and author Val Mullally.  www.koemba.com  or  087 760 9355. 

Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2015

Under the Patronage of the Bishop Seamus Freeman S.A.C., Bishop of Ossory, takes place from May 22nd – May 27th 2015.  Cost is  €755pps.   All bookings for both regular and assisted pilgrims please contact: Glenmore Parish Office on 051 880 414 or email glenmore@ossory.ie Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 10.00am - 2.30pm & Friday 9.15am – 12.15pm (closed on Wednesday).  

South Kilkenny Historical Society

The Marlhill Murder and the South Kilkenny connection.  Speaker: Mr Eddie Dalton. Thursday, 5th February. Time: 8.00pm. Venue: Mullinavat Parish Hall. Admission: €5 (members free). All welcome.