Twenty First Sunday in Ordinary Time, 23rd August 2015

St. Fiacre’s Well Novena

This year’s annual novena to St. Fiacre begins with rosary and prayers at the well in Kilfera at 8.00pm on Saturday, 22^nd August.  This will continue at 8.00pm each evening of the coming week with concluding prayers and Mass on next Sunday, 30^th August at 3.00pm.  Devotion to St. Fiacre in our parish has a time-honoured history with annual novena prayers and patterns at the well for many centuries.  We invite all to continue the tradition by joining with us in prayer during the coming week and for the novena prayers and Mass on next Sunday afternoon.  By kind permission, St. Fiacre’s Well is approached through the avenue of Sheastown House which is a couple of miles out the Bennettsbridge Road.

In Ireland Fiacre began his life as a seventh century hermit and is also said to have served as a priest for some time. His Irish lineage was impressive, stemming as it did from Conn, King of Ireland from 523-577. Fiacre is believed to have been born around 590. Even in early youth he was noted for his generosity towards the poor and less fortunate and later he was to become famous for his wisdom and judgement in all matters and for his skill in working with the land - hence his association as the patron saint of gardeners. Although he served the people dutifully, his true desire was for solitude and prayer and he retired to a small patch of sheltered woodland on the banks of the river Nore where there was a fertile plain and a deep well with fresh, safe water known today as Kilfera. Here he could live out his days in peace…or so he thought. Find out more information on

www.irelandsholywells.blogspot.ie/2012/07/saint-fiacres-well-kilkenny.html

Traditional Prayer to St. Fiacre

Give ear, O Lord,

to the supplications we offer Thee

on this, the Festival of St. Fiacre, thy confessor,

so that we trust not in our own merits,

but may be aided by him,

who was so pleasing to Thee,

through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Peace in Christ Retreat House

Recognising and honouring almost half a century of service given by the Sisters at Peace in Christ, a Mass of Thanksgiving will be celebrated in St. John’s Church on Wednesday, 2^nd September at 7.30pm followed by refreshments in Langton House Hotel. All are welcome.

Since its foundation by Bishop Peter Birch in 1967 the people of St. Patrick’s Parish have had a long and fruitful relationship with the sisters and staff at Peace in Christ Retreat House.  Many members of our parish have greatly benefited from retreats, parish evenings, days of prayer and reflection and other initiatives taken by the sisters down through the years.  Let us show our appreciation of the sisters and staff by joining in this concelebrated Mass to mark the closure of the retreat house.  All are welcome: please keep the evening free.

Our Lady’s Island Pilgrimage 2015

The annual pilgrimage runs from 15^th August to the 8^th September.  Closing Ceremony followed by Torchlight Procession at 7.00pm on Tuesday, 8^th September.  Full programme is available on www.ourladysisland.ie

St. Mary’s Cathedral Draw

The sixth monthly draw will take place in the Cathedral Chapter Room at 8.00pm on this Wednesday, 26^th August. New subscribers are always welcome.  We would respectfully remind those who subscribe monthly to submit their money by Tuesday.  There are still seven draws to go: €70 in all or €10 per month.  Tickets are available at the Parish Office.

Volunteers Needed

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Kilkenny is seeking suitable volunteers for their charity shops Vincent's in the Kilkenny area. A commitment of at least 3 hours a week would be required and all training and support will be provided. Please contact Liam on 087 212 0201.

South Kilkenny Historical Society

Heritage Week  Event,  Sunday, 30^th August. Local History Mystery Tour of South Kilkenny. Meeting time and place: 3.00pm, John O Donovan Centre, Slieverue (formerly Slieverue Vocational School)  This event is free.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Kay Creedon, The Sycamores, Freshford Road.  Funeral prayers at Hehir’s Funeral Home at 6.30pm on Sunday followed by removal to St. Canice’s Church.  Requiem Mass, Monday at 11.00am. Interment in Foulkstown.  Leo Ryan, Bedford and formerly Assumption Place. Patrick Sheehan, Meadow Hill, Kilkenny.  Anne Doogue, Castlecomer.  Michael Rice, Burnchurch.

Anniversaries: Tom & Mary Byrne (Sat 6.15). Paddy McDonald (Sat 7.00). Annie McKenna (Sun 9.30). Mary & John Heslin (Sun 10.00). Paddy Heffernan (Sun 10.30). Tom & Michael Casserly (Sun 11.00). Patsy Ryan (Sun 12.00). Joe McHugh (Sun 12.30).  Michael White. Paddy Cooke. Tommy Morris. James Browne. Nance O’Neill. Joe Maher.  James Rhatigan. Pierce & Catherine Marnell. Maria Murray. Thomas O’Keeffe. Laurence Brett. Br. Martin Cassidy. Mary & William Kingston. Joseph O’Shea. Patrick Culleton. Martin Ward. Ben Delahunty.  Maurice Maher. Annette Kavanagh.

Intentions for next weekend:  Brigid Kenny (Sat 6.15). Jim Ryan (Sat 7.00). Michael White (Sun 9.30). Paddy Mullen (Sun 10.00). May Spain (Months Mind  Sun 10.30). Tony Madden (Sun 11.00). Michael Phelan (Birthday Remembrance Sun 12.00). Muggers Larkin (Sun 12.30).

Ladies Friendship Club

Ladies Friendship Club resumes on Wednesday 2^nd September at 8.30pm in the Social Services Centre , Waterford  Road. New members very welcome.

Typing and Computers

Courses beginning in September. One-to-one or group sessions, beginner and improver levels.  Suitable for secondary school and college students, professionals and older people.  Call Majella on 086 371 3573 for further information.

Notices for the Newsletter

Please ensure that all notices for inclusion in the parish newsletter are in by Thursday.  Parish  and diocesan notices take priority. 

Irish National Eucharistic Congress

The Irish Catholic Bishops Conference will celebrate a National Eucharistic Congress on the weekend of 26^th -27^th September 2015 at Knock Shrine. The Congress will serve both as a spiritual preparation for the 51^st International Eucharistic Congress 2016 in Cebu next January and as an opportunity to focus in the light of our Eucharistic communion on some of the important pastoral questions in the life of the Church at this time.

The theme for the National Congress, echoing the theme of IEC2016, is “Christ, our Hope” (Col 1:27). This theme will be reflected in all homilies and presentations given at the Congress.  The Congress, which is free of charge, will have a particular focus on Marriage and the Family as well as the Year of Consecrated Life and the upcoming Jubilee of Mercy.

Theology Matters!

The Priory Institute invites you to join their enthusiastic student community and study theology from home or in class.  Application deadline is 21^st September.  Email: enquiries@prioryinstitute.com or phone 01 404 8124.

Certificate in Theology

Do you want to know more about your faith? Your Church? Its history? Our Bible (Old and New Testaments) Our moral theology? Our liturgy and the sacraments?  Or just to know more about the God we pray to.  If so why not consider taking part in the Certificate in Theology at St Kieran’s College.  A new course starts October 2015 - find out more at www.ossory.ie 

Concert in Aid of Crumlin Hospital

A free concert in Aid of Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin will take place in the Black Abbey, Kilkenny on Friday next the 28^th of August at 7.30pm Performing will be Berbau und Hutten Traditionsmusik, Arnoldstein, Austria, James McDonald Classical Guitar and St. Patrick's Brass and Reed Band. A wonderful evenings entertainment is assured. A retiring collection will be taken up on departure and all are welcome to come along. Further information from Liam  087 212 0201

Thinking of Getting Married Soon?

Couples wishing to be married in our parish are asked to note the following:  Contact the Parish Office (776 4400) as early as possible to book your preferred date.  Bookings are 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 months before the date. 

Contact the parish where you now reside where pre-marriage papers will be prepared for forwarding to the place of marriage.  www.gettingmarried.ie

Papal Blessings

Papal blessing parchments to mark weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, jubilees and some other occasions are available through the Parish Shop.  Please enquire at the reception desk in the Parish Centre.

There are lots of other items of a religious nature available at reasonable prices in our parish shop which is located in the Parish Center.

Tommy Fleming In Concert

Early notice of a concert on Thursday 1^st October 2015 at 8.00pm at St.  Colman’s Church, Conahy Jenkinstown.  Tickets available from Post Office, Castlecomer and Ballyragget, and Rollercoaster Records Kilkenny.

Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 16th August 2015

The Beginning of Wisdom

The Chinese teacher, editor, politician, and philosopher Confucius once told us that it is “By three methods we may learn wisdom:

· first, by reflection, which is noblest;

· second, by imitation, which is easiest;

· and third by experience, which is the bitterest.”

For any of us who have experienced hindrance or success, either in an endeavour or in life, this surely rings true.  And indeed the Greek Philosopher Aristotle tells us that “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” 

This reminds me of a little story I heard, which was written by C.L. James.  A big cat saw a little cat chasing its tail and asked, “Why are you chasing your tail so?”  Said the kitten, “I have learned that the best thing for a cat is happiness, and that happiness is in my tail. Therefore, I am chasing it: and when I catch it, I shall have happiness.”  Said the old cat, “My son, I, too, have paid attention to the problems of the universe.  I too, have judged that happiness is in my tail.  But, I have noticed that whenever I chase after it, it keeps running away from me, and when I go about my business, it just seems to come after me wherever I go.” 

Wisdom and happiness often go hand in hand, but sometimes the pursuit of both can wear us out in a seeming unending futile chase.  Perhaps in the pursuit of happiness and wisdom, we might take a lesson from our first reading today which portrays wisdom as a lady, inviting us to a feast.  At a feast, one normally relaxes, rests and enjoys the fare.  Remember wisdom and happiness are like a butterfly which, when pursued, are always beyond our grasp, but, if you will sit down quietly, they may alight upon you!

St. Fiacre’s Well Novena

The annual novena to St. Fiacre begins with rosary and prayers at the well in Kilfera on next Saturday, 22^nd  August at 8.00pm.  This will continue each evening at 8.00pm with concluding prayers and Mass on Sunday, 30^th August at 3.00pm.  All welcome.

Faith and Family Novena

The annual Knock Novena started on Friday and runs until 22^nd August.  Daily ceremonies at 3.00pm and 8.30pm.  Workshops at 12.00 noon and 6.00pm.  This year’s theme is “Faith and Family”.  Speakers include: Cardinal Dolan, New York; Archbishop Eamon Martin, Armagh; Bishop Kevin Doran, Elphin; Peter Sutherland, UN Special Representative on International Migration; Joan Freeman, Pieta House. Full programme on www.knockshrine.ie

Our Lady’s Island Pilgrimage 2015

The annual pilgrimage runs from 15^th August to the 8^th September.  Mass and Anointing of the Sick at 3.00pm on Sunday, 16^th August.  “A Time to Heal” at 8.00pm on Wednesday, 19^th August.  Closing Ceremony followed by Torchlight Procession at 7.00pm on Tuesday, 8^th September.  Full programme is available on www.ourladysisland.ie

Legion of Mary Pilgrimage

The Legion of Mary pilgrimage to Our Lady’s Island Wexford takes place on Wednesday, 19^th August.  Bus leaves the Parade at 5.00pm.  For bookings telephone Pat on 056 776 4783 or Kay on 087 942 8305.  Fare €10.  All are welcome.

Theology Matters!

The Priory Institute invites you to join their enthusiastic student community and study theology from home or in class.  Application deadline is 21^st September.  Email: enquiries@prioryinstitute.com or phone 01 404 8124.

Thinking of Getting Married Soon?

Couples wishing to be married in our parish are asked to note the following:  Contact the Parish Office (776 4400) as early as possible to book your preferred date.  Bookings are 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 months before the date. 

Contact the parish where you now reside where pre-marriage papers will be prepared for forwarding to the place of marriage.  www.gettingmarried.ie

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased:  Noreen Faul, College Road.  Funeral prayers at Hehir’s Funeral Home at 6.30pm on Monday followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church.  Requiem Mass at 11.00am on Tuesday followed by burial at Foulkstown Cemetery.  Edward Fox, Assumption Place.  Funeral  prayers at Johnston’s Funeral Home at 11.15am on Sunday followed by removal to St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown for 12.00 noon requiem Mass.  Internment in adjoining cemetery.  Margaret Brett, Newpark.  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 Foulkstown Cemetery.  Bernadette Roberts, Goslingstown. Nancy Waters, Ballyraggett. Annmarie Jordan, Ballina, Co. Mayo.  Bridget Kelly, Greensbridge. (Sun 12.00). Sr. Alphonsus Sheehy, Callan.

Anniversaries: Kathleen Brophy (Sat 6:15). Patrick Curran & Edna Carolan (Sat 7.00). Evelyn Hughes (Sun  9.30). Davina Crosby (Sun 10.00). Tom Ryan (Sun 10.30). Jim Drohan (Sun 11.00). Eddie Kelly & Bridget Kelly. Margaret Shanahan (Sun 12.30). Bridget Long (Mon 9.30). Moscow Larkin (Wed 10.30). John, Ellen, Pat & Mary Butler (Thurs 10.30).  Pat Owens. John & Catherine Waldron. John & Helen Waldron. Christina Gargan. Dick Walsh. Peadar Blanchfield. Ray Bolger. Peggy Ryan. Michael Gibbons.

Intentions for next weekend:  Tom & Mary Byrne (Sat 6.15). Paddy McDonald (Sat 7.00). Annie McKenna (Sun 9.30). Mary & John Heslin (Sun 10.00). Paddy Heffernan (Sun 10.30). Tom & Michael Casserly (Sun 11.00). Patsy Ryan (Sun 12.00). Joe McHugh (Sun 12.30).

National Dawn Walk for Cancer

The walk will take place on Saturday morning 22^nd August at 5.45am. It is a 10km journey over Mount Leinster, from The Nine Stones to Myshall, Co. Carlow. Walk will be led by Bishop Denis Nulty.  Places limited so book early to avoid disappointment. The cost is €10 per adult and €5 per child.   Further information and booking: call 085 747 3522. or please see our website at www.nationaldawnwalkforcancer.com.

French Group Visit Parish

A youth group from a French parish will visit our parish on Monday and Tuesday.  Made up of about 35 young people and their leaders the group is cycling through the South of Ireland as part of a Summer Camp, Pilgrimage and Spiritual Exercise.  They will be accommodated in the Parish Centre on Monday and Tuesday with Latin Mass in St. Fiacre’s Church at 9.00am on Tuesday and Wednesday.  If you meet them be sure to make them feel welcome.

Certificate in Theology

Do you want to know more about your faith? Your Church? Its history? Our Bible (Old and New Testaments) Our moral theology? Our liturgy and the sacraments?  Or just to know more about the God we pray to.  If so why not consider taking part in the Certificate in Theology at St Kieran’s College.  A new course starts October 2015 - find out more at www.ossory.ie 

Irish National Eucharistic Congress

The Irish Catholic Bishops Conference will celebrate a National Eucharistic Congress on the weekend of 26^th -27^th September 2015 at Knock Shrine. The Congress will serve both as a spiritual preparation for the 51^st International Eucharistic Congress 2016 in Cebu next January and as an opportunity to focus in the light of our Eucharistic communion on some of the important pastoral questions in the life of the Church at this time.

The theme for the National Congress, echoing the theme of IEC2016, is “Christ, our Hope” (Col 1:27). This theme will be reflected in all homilies and presentations given at the Congress.  The Congress, which is free of charge, will have a particular focus on Marriage and the Family as well as the Year of Consecrated Life and the upcoming Jubilee of Mercy.

Loughboy Library News

Summer Reading Challenge finishes on 22^nd August. Please return completed cards to the library.

Heritage Week - an introduction to Tracing your Family Tree on Tuesday, 25^th August.  Please book.

Caring For Your Dog: Wednesday, 26^th August at 2.30pm.

Typing and Computers

Courses beginning in September. One-to-one or group sessions, beginner and improver levels.  Suitable for secondary school and college students, professionals and older people.  Call Majella on 086 371 3573 for further information.

Papal Blessings

Papal blessing parchments to mark weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, jubilees and some other occasions are available through the Parish Shop.  Please enquire at the reception desk in the Parish Centre.

There are lots of other items of a religious nature available at reasonable prices in our parish shop which is located in the Parish Center.

Tommy Fleming In Concert

Early notice of a concert on Thursday 1^st October 2015 at 8.00pm at St.  Colman’s Church, Conahy Jenkinstown.  Tickets available from Post Office, Castlecomer and Ballyragget, and Rollercoaster Records Kilkenny.

Staff Required

The Carers Association are recruiting for Home care workers in the Callan, Kells, Borris, Graiguenamanagh & surrounding areas.  If you have completed FETAC level 5 in Healthcare Support or currently working towards it, could you please contact 056 7721424 or email Kilkenny@carersireland.com

Notices for the Newsletter

Please ensure that all notices for inclusion in the parish newsletter are in by Thursday.  Parish  and diocesan notices take priority.

Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 9th August 2015

Feast of the Assumption

Next Saturday, 15th August is the feast of The Assumption of  the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven.  This is an important solemnity in the Church and it is a holyday of obligation.  Our Masses for this feast follow the same schedule as a Sunday, vigil Masses on Friday at 6.15pm and 7.00pm and the usual Sunday morning timetable for Saturday Masses. 

Please join us in honouring our Blessed Mother.

Work in St. Patrick’s Church

The final piece of work will commence in the sanctuary  of the church starting this Monday.  This is the repair to the truss above the side chapel which has developed cracks over the years.

As before, we will have Mass at the normal times using a portable altar.  Should the need arise, funerals will be redirected to either of our other two churches. As soon as work is completed, we will be back to normal.

Thanks for your patience and understanding.

St. Fiacre’s Well Novena

The annual novena to St. Fiacre begins with rosary and prayers at the well in Kilfera on Saturday, 22^nd  August at 8.00pm.  This will continue each evening at 8.00pm with concluding prayers and Mass on Sunday, 30^th August at 3.00pm.  All welcome.

Faith and Family Novena

The annual Knock Novena runs from 14^th to 22^nd August.  Daily ceremonies at 3.00pm and 8.30pm.  Workshops at 12.00 noon and 6.00pm.  This year’s theme is “Faith and Family”.  Speakers include: Cardinal Dolan, New York; Archbishop Eamon Martin, Armagh; Bishop Kevin Doran, Elphin; Peter Sutherland, UN Special Representative on International Migration; Joan Freeman, Pieta House.  Full programme available on www.knockshrine.ie

Theology Matters!

The Priory Institute invites you to join their enthusiastic student community and study theology from home or in class.  Application deadline is 21^st September.  Email: enquiries@prioryinstitute.com or phone 01 404 8124.

Thinking of Getting Married Soon?

Couples wishing to be married in our parish are asked to note the following:  Contact the Parish Office (776 4400) as early as possible to book your preferred date.  Bookings are 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 months before the date. 

Contact the parish where you now reside where pre-marriage papers will be prepared for forwarding to the place of marriage. 

Visit www.gettingmarried.ie which provides useful information, hints and tips.

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: John Brennan, Mill Street, Thomastown and late of Elphin, Co. Roscommon. Requiem Mass at 10.30am on Sunday at St. Bennett’s Church, Bennettsbridge. Burial afterwards in Foulkstown Cemetery.  Elizabeth Hickman, Garden Villas. Requiem Mass at 11.00am on Sunday at St. Mary’s Cathedral. Burial afterwards in St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Kathleen Fox, Castlecomer Road. Requiem Mass at 11.30am on Sunday at St. Canice’s Church.  Burial afterwards in St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Bridget Kelly, Greensbridge Court. Funeral arrangements later.  Phil Doyle, Lord Edward Street and late of Firhouse.  Paddy Henderson, Waterford Road.

Months Mind: Teresa Burke (Months Mind Sun 12.30).

Anniversaries: Mary Coogan (Sat 6:15). Jackie Coonan (Sat 7.00). Phil O’Neill (Sun 10.00). Martin Mulhall (Sun 11.00) James & Margaret Bambrick (Sun 12.00). Ellen McEvoy (Mon 9.30). Eileen Tynan (Tues 9.30). Gabriel Warde (Tues 10.30). John, Catherine, Helen and John Waldron (Fri 10.30).  Martin Doran. Edward & Christina O’Shaughnessy.  Ned O’Shaughnessy. Nin Bligh.

Intentions for next weekend:  Kathleen Brophy (Sat 6:15). Patrick Curran & Edna Carolan (Sat 7.00). Evelyn Hughes (Sun  9.30). Davina Crosby (Sun 10.00). Tom Ryan (Sun 10.30). Jim Drohan (Sun 11.00). Eddie Kelly (Sun 12.00). Margaret Shanahan (Sun 12.30).

Best Of Luck Kilkenny

We join in wishing Brian, and all the lads all the very best as they take on Galway in the minor and Waterford in the senior All Ireland Hurling Semi-finals in Croke Park on Sunday.

To those travelling to the match: have a safe journey; those cheering from the armchairs, don’t get too carried away!

Church Gate Collection

SOS Kilkenny will hold their annual church gate collection on next weekend.  Please support.

Papal Blessings

Papal blessing parchments to mark weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, jubilees and some other occasions are available through the Parish Shop.  Please enquire at the reception desk in the Parish Centre.

There are lots of other items of a religious nature available at reasonable prices in our parish shop which is located in the Parish Center.

National Dawn Walk for Cancer

The walk will take place on Saturday morning 22^nd August at 5.45am. It is a 10km journey over Mount Leinster, from The Nine Stones to Myshall, Co. Carlow. Walk will be led by Bishop Denis Nulty.  Places limited so book early to avoid disappointment. The cost is €10 per adult and €5 per child.   Further information and booking: call 085 747 3522. or please see our website at www.nationaldawnwalkforcancer.com.

Art and Photography Exhibition

There will be an exhibition of art and photography by religious, priests and friends in the Chapter House, St. Mary’s Cathedral from 7^th to 15^th August.

Certificate in Theology

Do you want to know more about your faith? Your Church? Its history? Our Bible (Old and New Testaments) Our moral theology? Our liturgy and the sacraments?  Or just to know more about the God we pray to.  If so why not consider taking part in the Certificate in Theology at St Kieran’s College.  A new course starts October 2015 - find out more at www.ossory.ie 

Irish National Eucharistic Congress

The Irish Catholic Bishops Conference will celebrate a National Eucharistic Congress on the weekend of 26^th -27^th September 2015 at Knock Shrine. The Congress will serve both as a spiritual preparation for the 51^st International Eucharistic Congress 2016 in Cebu next January and as an opportunity to focus in the light of our Eucharistic communion on some of the important pastoral questions in the life of the Church at this time.

The theme for the National Congress, echoing the theme of IEC2016, is “Christ, our Hope” (Col 1:27). This theme will be reflected in all homilies and presentations given at the Congress.  The Congress, which is free of charge, will have a particular focus on Marriage and the Family as well as the Year of Consecrated Life and the upcoming Jubilee of Mercy.

Lough Derg

Three Day Pilgrimage available any day up until Thursday, 13^th August.  “Coming away from everyday life offers the space to look at the past with understanding, make sense of the present and look to the shores of new possibilities.”

Day Retreats recommence on 17^th August.  For further information: 071 986 1518 or inforoughderg.org

Youth 2000 Summer Festival

Cistercian College, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary from Thursday 13^th – Sunday 16^th August 2015.  For young people aged 16-35, this is a great opportunity to find out what your Catholic faith is all about in a friendly, chilled-out atmosphere.  There is an action packed programme of inspiring talks, workshops, testimonies, prayer, music,  drama and much more. The festival is donation only.  Free buses available from around Ireland.  For info or to book see www.youth2000.ie or telephone 01 675 3690.

Typing and Computers

Courses beginning in September. One-to-one or group sessions, beginner and improver levels.  Suitable for secondary school and college students, professionals and older people.  Call Majella on 086 371 3573 for further information.

Tweed Return to Kilkenny

There is a fundraiser on Saturday 15^th August in the Newpark Hotel Kilkenny.  80’s band Tweed will be performing on the night.  Proceeds raised on the night go to The Carers Association and Chernobyl Kilkenny outreach group.  Hope to see you there.

Notices for the Newsletter

Please ensure that all notices for inclusion in the parish newsletter are in by Thursday.  Parish  and diocesan notices take priority. Include a phone number with all notices where possible in case there is a query. Anniversary notices should only be left into the parish office by email, phone or by hand.

Tommy Fleming In Concert

Early notice of a concert on Thursday 1^st October 2015 at 8.00pm at St.  Colman’s Church, Conahy Jenkinstown.  Tickets available from Post Office, Castlecomer and Ballyragget, and Rollercoaster Records Kilkenny.

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 2nd August 2015

Bank Holiday Weekend

Because Monday is 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 Mass

Many thanks to all who attended the Cemetery Mass on last Thursday evening.  Thank God we had fine weather and a wonderful and fitting celebration.  Thanks, too, to the Foulkstown Cemetery Committee for their consistent work maintaining our burial space, to all who prepared family graves and to those who prepared for and participated in the liturgy.

Mass at St. Rioch’s Cemetery

The annual Mass at St. Rioch’s Cemetery will be celebrated at the cemetery on Thursday, 6^th August at 7.30pm.  If weather is inclement the Mass will be celebrated in the Capuchin Friary.

St. Fiacre’s Well Novena

The annual novena to St. Fiacre begins with rosary and prayers at the well in Kilfera on Saturday, 22^nd  August at 8.00pm.  This will continue each evening at 8.00pm with concluding prayers and Mass on Sunday, 30^th August at 3.00pm.  All welcome.

Public Rosary

The monthly rosary will be recited at the statue of Our Lady of Kilkenny, James Green at 3.00pm on this Sunday, 2^nd August.  All are welcome.

Faith and Family Novena

The annual Knock Novena runs from 14^th to 22^nd August.  Daily ceremonies at 3.00pm and 8.30pm.  Workshops at 12.00 noon and 6.00pm.  This year’s theme is “Faith and Family”.  Speakers include: Cardinal Dolan, New York; Archbishop Eamon Martin, Armagh; Bishop Kevin Doran, Elphin; Peter Sutherland, UN Special Representative on International Migration; Joan Freeman, Pieta House.  Full programme available on www.knockshrine.ie

Pray For Our Deceased Friends

Recently Deceased: Nan Delaney, England and formerly Kilkenny.  Remains arriving at St. Patrick’s Church at 9.00pm (nine o’clock) on Saturday. Requiem Mass at 11.00am on Sunday followed by burial at St. Kieran’s Cemetery. Bridget Hackett, Callan. Requiem Mass in Callan at 12.00 noon on Monday.  Peg Hodge, Waterford. Martin Mulhall, Bonnettstown. Billy Tobin, Hillcrest, Granges Road. Bríd White, Bonnettstown.  Kathleen Manning, Johnswell.

Months Mind: Mark Burke (Sun 9.30). Sean Quigley (Sun 12.30).

Anniversaries: Eileen O’Brien (Sat 6:15). Vera Brannigan (Sat 7.00).  Jimmy Byrne (Sun 10.00). Mary Norris (Sun 10.30). James & Mary Brennan (Sun 11.00).  Eileen Grace (Sun 12.00). Annie Lennon (Mon 11.00).  Patricia Dinneen (Tue 9.30). Michael Conroy (Wed 9.30).  Mary Millea (Fri 10:30).  Chrissie Drennan.  Breda O’Hara.  Mary & Martin Burke.  Molly Gahan.  Rita Thompson.

Intentions for next weekend: Mary Coogan (Sat 6.15). Jackie Coonan (Sat 7.00). Phil O’Neill (Sun 10.00). Martin Mulhall (Sun 11.00). James & Margaret Bambrick (Sun 12.00). Teresa Burke (Months Mind Sun 12.30).

St. Mary’s Cathedral Draw July Results

1^st Prize:  Marie Mahon,   Borris-in-Ossory. 2^nd Prize: Marie & E Fitzpatrick, Borris-in-Ossory.  3^rd Prize: Fr. Larry O’Keeffe, Clara. 4^th Prize: Elizabeth Holohan, St. John’s Parish. 5^th Prize: Parents’ Council, Clogh NS. 6^th Prize: Gary McCarthy, Johnstown. 7^th Prize: Dave & Kay Gaffney, St. Mary’s Parish. 8^th Prize: Mary Bergin, Ballacolla.  9^th Prize: Richard Gordon.  10^th Prize: Fr. Martin Tobin, Clogh.

Thanks to all who continue to support this diocesan draw for the refurbishment of St. Mary’s Cathedral.  The next draw will take place on  26th August.

First Friday of August

The first Friday of August occurs this week.  The priests hope to visit the sick as arranged.  Please contact the Parish Office if you would like to be added to the lists.

Papal Blessings

Papal blessing parchments to mark weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, jubilees and some other occasions are available through the Parish Shop.  Please enquire at the reception desk in the Parish Centre.

National Dawn Walk for Cancer

The walk will take place on Saturday morning 22^nd August at 5.45am. It is a 10km journey over Mount Leinster, from The Nine Stones to Myshall, Co. Carlow. Walk will be led by Bishop Denis Nulty.  Places limited so book early to avoid disappointment. The cost is €10 per adult and €5 per child.   Further information and booking: call 085 747 3522. or please see our website at www.nationaldawnwalkforcancer.com.

Art and Photography Exhibition

There will be an exhibition of art and photography by religious, priests and friends in the Chapter House, St. Mary’s Cathedral from 7^th to 15^th August. 

Irish National Eucharistic Congress

The Irish Catholic Bishops Conference will celebrate a National Eucharistic Congress on the weekend of 26^th -27^th September 2015 at Knock Shrine. The Congress will serve both as a spiritual preparation for the 51^st International Eucharistic Congress 2016 in Cebu next January and as an opportunity to focus in the light of our Eucharistic communion on some of the important pastoral questions in the life of the Church at this time.

The theme for the National Congress, echoing the theme of IEC2016, is “Christ, our Hope” (Col 1:27). This theme will be reflected in all homilies and presentations given at the Congress.  The Congress, which is free of charge, will have a particular focus on Marriage and the Family as well as the Year of Consecrated Life and the upcoming Jubilee of Mercy.

Tweed Return to Kilkenny

There is a fundraiser on Saturday 15^th August in the Newpark Hotel Kilkenny.  80’s band Tweed will be performing on the night.  Proceeds raised on the night go to The Carers Association and Chernobyl Kilkenny outreach group.  Hope to see you there.

Theology Matters!

The Priory Institute invites you to join their enthusiastic student community and study theology from home or in class.  Application deadline is 21^st September.  Email: enquiries@prioryinstitute.com or phone 01 404 8124.

Youth 2000 Summer Festival

Cistercian College, Roscrea, Co. Tipperary from Thursday 13^th – Sunday 16^th August 2015.  For young people aged 16-35, this is a great opportunity to find out what your Catholic faith is all about in a friendly, chilled-out atmosphere.  There is an action packed programme of inspiring talks, workshops, testimonies, prayer, music,  drama and much more. The festival is donation only.  Free buses available from around Ireland.  For info or to book see www.youth2000.ie or telephone 01 675 3690.

Certificate in Theology

Do you want to know more about your faith? Your Church? Its history? Our Bible (Old and New Testaments) Our moral theology? Our liturgy and the sacraments?  Or just to know more about the God we pray to.  If so why not consider taking part in the Certificate in Theology at St Kieran’s College.  A new course starts October 2015 - find out more at www.ossory.ie 

Getting Married?

Contact the Parish Office (776 4400) as early as possible to book your preferred date.  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 months before the date. 

Contact the parish where you now reside where pre-marriage papers will be prepared for forwarding to the place of marriage.  Visit www.gettingmarried.ie which provides useful information, hints and tips.

Tommy Fleming In Concert

Early notice of a concert on Thursday 1^st October 2015 at 8.00pm at St.  Colman’s Church, Conahy Jenkinstown.  Tickets available from Post Office, Castlecomer and Ballyragget, and Rollercoaster Records Kilkenny.

Notices for the Newsletter

Please ensure that all notices for inclusion in the parish newsletter are in by Thursday.  Parish  and diocesan notices take priority. Include a phone number with all notices where possible in case there is a query. Anniversary notices should only be left into the parish office by email, phone or by hand.