The worldwide Day of Prayer for Survivors and Victims of Abuse takes place on the first Friday of Lent, which is Friday, 24th February.
Ms Una Allen, the Coordinator of Towards Peace, the spiritual support service for survivors of abuse kindly provides a reflection on her experience of accompanying some of the survivors and victims of abuse when they took part in the diocesan phase of the Synod in Ireland in 2022 and how the subsequent submission from this group, which goes to the heart of our own need for conversion, was a call to the Church to hear their prophetic voice and to act on the wisdom of their experience.
Refugees and peace need our prayers, charity
and sacrifice this Lent –
Archbishop Eamon Martin
- As we approach the 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, we remember that this agreement was not an end in itself, but the beginning of a new way of living our relationships on this shared island.
Tomorrow, Ash Wednesday, is the beginning of the holy season of Lent when, each day, Christians offer prayer, charity and sacrifice. The beginning of Lent traditionally involves fasting, and the distribution of ashes on the foreheads of church-goers. Many make Lenten promises or resolutions throughout the forty day penitential period leading up to Holy Week and Easter Sunday, when we mark the Crucifixion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Ahead of Lent 2023 Archbishop Eamon Martin said, “Over the last year people around the world have experienced death and suffering on a large scale caused by wars and natural disasters. The effects of climate change continue to impact our most vulnerable sisters and brothers. Now, more than ever, the three pillars of Lent – prayer, charity and sacrifice – are needed for our own spiritual conversion and to support those in need.
“At this time, when homes throughout the country receive their annual Lenten Trócaire box, I encourage families to pray together in a special way, and to fast, for world peace, and for the alleviation of the suffering of refugees who are living amongst us. I also invite everyone to follow our daily #LivingLent digital media initiative to grow closer to God during Lent.
“Our hearts and prayers continue go out to the suffering people of Ukraine. During Lent let our acts of prayer, charity and fasting, each day, be dedicated to the plight of refugees, and for a global peaceful environment. We must always work for peace, pray for peace and make sacrifices for peace. All of us have the capacity to build peace by our words, our actions and our attitudes to others.
“As we approach the 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, we remember that this agreement was not an end in itself, but the beginning of a new way of living our relationships on this shared island. We must continue the unfinished work of peace and reconciliation. With our words, particularly on social media, we choose to sow peace or conflict, love or hate, to build up, or to tear down, to heal or to hurt, to forgive or to resent, to soothe or to inflame. During Lent we should place a guard over our social media use and learn that as Christians working together on this island we should build bridges in a spirit of collaboration for the greater good.”
Accord NI Catholic Marriage Care Service
Accord NI Catholic Marriage Care Service is recruiting Marriage Education Facilitators to provide Sacramental Marriage Preparation for couples in your diocese. We are seeking individuals who are good communicators and have an enthusiasm for supporting couples as they prepare for the Sacrament of Marriage and future family life.
This is an opportunity to formally train within a supportive, nurturing and inspiring community.
In 2022, our teams helped 2,140 couples to develop good communication skills, manage conflict and understand the responsibility and significance of the Sacrament of Marriage. For further details and an application form, please contact Brenda at 028 9023 3002 or email info@accordni.com.
Triduum of Prayer to St Patrick
As we celebrate the 150th year since the Dedication of St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh, a special TRIDUUM OF PRAYER TO SAINT PATRICK will take place in the Cathedral from Tuesday 14 – Thursday 16 March.
Mass on the three mornings in St Patrick’s Cathedral at 10am and on the three evenings at 7.30pm
Tuesday 14 March 7.30pm
A time to look back! (Archbishop Eamon Martin)
Wednesday 15 March 7.30pm
A time to give thanks! (Fr Peter Burns CSSR, Rector of Clonard Monastery, Belfast)
Thursday 16 March 7.30pm
A time to look forward with hope and with joy! (Bishop Michael Router)
More information here: https://sppu.ie/courses/higher-diploma-in-pastoral-theology-healthcare-chaplaincy
Southern Trust Chaplaincy Service
Our parish proudly supports the provision of hospital chaplaincy across the Southern Trust.
You can read more about the chaplaincy service here:
https://southerntrust.hscni.net/service/chaplaincy-services/
“Christ in the City” Update
One of our youth group members, Sarah, is currently in the US ministering with “Christ in the City” , a Catholic organisation that helps form Catholic missionaries, reaches out to the homeless, and walks with them toward healing.
Sarah has kindly shared her latest newsletter from across the pond and you can view it here:
Memorial of St. Blaise – 3rd February
The “Blessing of Throats” associated with this day will be given after Mass. A prayer for blessing and healing will be included in the Mass for those who may join us via the webcam.
Feast of the Presentation of the Lord – 2nd February
This coming Thursday (2nd February) is the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord (Candlemas Day).
The traditional Blessing of Candles will take place during the 10.30am Mass, and the blessing will include any candles you may have at home and wish to be blessed.
Feast of St. Brigid – 1st February
This Wednesday (1st February) is the Feast of St Brigid, National Patroness & Patroness of our Diocese.
The blessing of St Brigid’s Crosses will take place at 10.30am Mass. The blessing will “travel” for those who have crosses in their homes.
Through their virtual visiting service, the Southern Trust now provides access to Masses, etc. for patients during their stay in hospital. Details in the poster below.
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins on Wednesday 18 January and continues until 25 January. The theme this year is “Belonging: Praying for Unity amidst Injustice”. Following dialogue between the Holy See’s Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity and the World Council of Churches, the resources for this year have been compiled by the churches in Minneapolis. They seek to challenge us in how we witness to Christian Unity in the midst of turmoil and racism in our world.
Here in Ireland, this year of 2023 marks two important anniversaries of key events of the journey towards Christian Unity. This year is the centenary of the formation of the Irish Council of Churches and it also marks the 50th anniversary of the Ballymascanlon Meetings between the Catholic Church and other Christian Churches on the island of Ireland in 1973, a structure that is now the Irish Inter-Church Meeting. Today, these are the bodies for inter-church dialogue in Ireland as we continue to work together for peace, reconciliation and social justice. As we know, that work is unfinished; sectarianism is still, sadly, a major problem in communities and political life in the north while the growth of racism is increasingly evident across the island. The current cost of living crisis and the effects of the war in Ukraine add to the turmoil. It is in this context that we mark the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity this year- giving thanks for the progress made by the Churches at various levels over the decades but seeking to place our continuing journey of witness to Christ’s desire for unity alongside his radical call to discipleship and social justice.
For more information, visit https://ctbi.org.uk/week-of-prayer-for-christian-unity-2023/
Living Church – Faith Development Conference
The Living Church Office is hosting a Faith Development Conference in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Shaw’s Bridge, Belfast, on Saturday 28th January 2023. This course will equip you with the skills and resources to lead faith development programmes in your parish, with your prayer group or organisation. Five excellent Programmes are being showcased and there will be an opportunity to meet with the developers and presenters of the programmes in taster sessions that they will run. Our keynote speaker will be Mr David Wells. David is an international speaker and author and has worked with Dioceses internationally encouraging and inspiring people to be leaders and sharing the Joy of the Gospel in their local parish communities.
Each delegate will receive lunch and will take home resources to support the delivery of five programmes that can be delivered in the Parish. For more information, or to book online, go to:www.livingchurchevents.com. Or to request an application form, contact Claire at the Living Church Office, 02890690920 orlivingchurch@downandconnor.org
Anam Cara Armagh
Anam Cara Armagh, the organisation that supports bereaved parents, is holding a Parent Evening for bereaved parents on Wednesday 25th January at 7:15pm in the Armagh City Hotel, Armagh, BT601E. This event is free and open to all bereaved parents regardless of the age your child died, the circumstances of their death, or whether their death was recent or not. We also offer an online support service. Contact us on info@anamcara.ie or 028 95213120 for any queries.
Armagh Parish Holy Spirit Prayer Group –
New Life in the Spirit Seminars
The Synod Hall, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh on Wednesday evenings at 8pm, beginning on Wednesday 8th February 2023.
Wed 8 Feb Introduction and Testimony (Fr Eamonn Kelly)
Wed 15 Feb Gods Love (Malachi Cush)
Wed 22 Feb Salvation (Archbishop Eamon Martin)
Wed 1 March The New Life (Louise Magennis)
Wed 8 March Receiving Gods Gifts (Colin McGurnaghan)
Wed 15 March Baptism in the Spirit (Fr Gerry Campbell)
Wed 22 March Growth (Fr Luke Ohiemi)
Wed 29 March Transformation in Christ (Antoinette Moynihan)
Wed 5 April Summary (Bernie Fox)
Wed 19 April Mass of Thanksgiving (Fr Peter McAnenly)
As we look forward to the Seminars, we pray for the speakers and all who will take part, that the Lord may touch the hearts of all.
God our Father, pour out your Holy Spirit upon your people and grant us a new vision of your glory, a new experience of your power, a new faithfulness to your Word and a new consecration to your service, that your love may grow among us, and your kingdom come; through Christ our Lord, Amen
Southern Area Hospice Services – Chaplain Vacancies
The Southern Area Hospice Services are currently recruiting for Chaplain positions, both permanent and temporary. Applicants must have a relevant degree (i.e., Theology) along with experience of working in a health care, parish, or community setting. The closing date for applications is 5pm on January 23rd 2023. For more information please see: https://www.southernareahospiceservices.org/chaplain
Our Youth2000 group are supporting gathering donations in aid of a local Foodbank.
Any donations of non-perishable foodstuffs (inc. tins of biscuits/sweets), toiletries, cleaning products, tin foil, cling film, fuel vouchers, supermarket vouchers etc., can be left in the Parish Office or Sacristy.
Aspal Programme – “Foundations in Youth Ministry”
Aspal is an online learning platform developed by the Diocese of Ossory and St. Patrick’s Pontifical University. The Archdiocese of Armagh has collaborated with Aspal to develop an online course entitled “Foundations in Youth Ministry”.
The programme is reflective in nature and has seven modules on different themes. It can be accessed at any time and is designed for individuals and parish groups who are engaging with young people or hope to engage in parish youth ministry.
The programme is free and available online until Easter 2023.
Enrolment is free and available now at www.aspal.ie.
Read more here:
Aspal Foundations in Youth Ministry
Apprenticed in Faith Programme
The Archdiocese of Armagh has developed an apprenticed in faith programme for young people aged 18-30. The “Apprenticeship in Faith” programme will run from December 2022 until January 2025. In return for training and support towards diocesan pilgrimages young leaders, peer mentors and others are asked to commit to 4 hours service in their Parish each week and assist diocesan youth coordinators with diocesan youth ministry initiatives. See attached document
The Archdiocese of Armagh will provide ongoing training support for those engaged in the apprenticeship and parishes. Parishes will offer opportunities for participants to gain experience whilst fulfilling the hourly requirements in parish.
Read more here: Apprenticed-in-Faith (1)
The Universe Catholic Weekly
Moving Forward Together on the Synodal Journey – November 2022
You can read a special message and an invitation from Archbishop Eamon & Bishop Michael on our parish website:
Synod 2021-2023
Want to do something different this Advent? Why not spend some time with the Word of God – in your own time, at your own pace?
“Emmanuel, God-with-us”
This is an online programme consisting of 6 pre-recorded lectures which you can watch in your own time and 2 live Webinars.
As we enter the Year of Matthew in the church calendar, Kieran O’Mahony, Jessie Rogers and Sean Goan will be reflecting on passages in Matthew’s Gospel from an Advent perspective.
Kieran O’Mahony – Flourishing are the poor in spirit: the Sermon on the Mount for today (Matthew 5-7)
Sean Goan – Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice: The Kingdom deeds of Jesus (Matthew 8-9)
Jessie Rogers – If you have ears, hear! Parables of the Kingdom (Matthew 13)
The recorded lectures will be available to access from 20 November 2022. You will receive a password when you register. Cost is per household.
Prefer not to pay online? You can send a cheque made out to St Patrick’s Pontifical University to Jessie Rogers, SPPU, Maynooth, County Kildare W23 TW77. Please make sure to include your name, telephone number and email address.
More information here:
https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/advent-2022-emmanuel-god-with-us-tickets-460011586037
St. Mary’s Church, Knockbridge is hosting CFC 2 on Saturday 26th Nov. from 10am-5pm followed by Mass at 6pm.
Lunch and tea breaks in the Community Centre. Participants can either bring their own lunch or pay for lunch in the Centre. The theme is ‘The Battle for Evangelisation’: Speakers include: Archbishop Eamon Martin (by video) Bishop Phonsie Cullinan ( Bishop of Waterford & Lismore), Fr. Pat Collins, Tony Foy (Net Ministries) Terry Quinn, Evangelist & Fr. Gerry Campbell PP.
Music provided by The Holy Family Prayer Group Drogheda. Shalom World TV Channel will film this live across the world. CFC2 is organised by the Missionary Disciples of Christ who organise ‘Encountering Christ Sunday’s’ 2-4pm in the parish church. Contact Terry 0864667107 or Katie 0877145536 for further details. You can also see it by webcam churchmedia.tv (click Louth then Knockbridge) Come and See !
Litany of Compassion for the Sick
Here is a short Litany of Compassion for the Sick, recorded by Fr. Damien, in Daisy Hill Hospital.
Here is our latest Mass for the Sick, celebrated in the chapel in Daisy Hill Hospital.
The prayers & readings come from the Mass of Our Lady, Health of the Sick.
As in previous years, Exposition will take place in our church this coming weekend, to mark the Solemnity of Christ the King.
Why not come and spend some time with the One who knows and loves you the most?
Time spent with the Lord is time never wasted.
Radio Maria Ireland can be listened to by downloading the Radio Maria Ireland APP, Saorview Channel 210 or listen live at (01)4373277
Almsgiving is an act of worship (2 Corinthians 9:10-15) and expresses not only our desire to help those in need but also our generosity to God. Our collections are the primary means by which the parish receives financial support from the parishioners, and they are also an expression of our gratitude to God for the blessings He has given us to return a portion of them back to Him for use by His Church.
The annual Mass for the Deceased will take place on Friday 25th November at 7.30pm. Anyone wishing to place the name of their loved one(s) on a candle should leave the name(s) in the Parish Office before Monday 21st November. The candles, which will be lit before the Mass, will be available for collection from the Parish Office from Monday 28th November.
“Christ in the City” Update
One of our youth group members, Sarah, is currently in the US ministering with “Christ in the City” , a Catholic organisation that helps form Catholic missionaries, reaches out to the homeless, and walks with them toward healing.
Sarah has kindly shared her latest newsletter from across the pond and you can view it here:
Previous updates from August & September can also be viewed here:
For more on the wonderful work of “Christ in the City”, visit https://christinthecity.org/
ST JOSEPH’S YOUNG PRIEST’S SOCIETY
Monthly meeting will take in our Parish Rooms, after the 10.30am Mass, on Saturday next (5th November). Why not come along and see what part you can play in helping to promote Vocations?
VOLUNTEER SANITISERS
A short meeting of those who have been sanitising our church will be held after the 10.30am Mass on Tuesday 1st November. We would ask that those who can stay after that Mass would please do so.
While no longer mandatory, the use of face masks remains highly recommended, and we ask that people continue to wear them throughout our Masses/liturgies when possible.
Joint statement by Church leaders following meeting with Secretary of State on the cost of living crisis
Discussion included the introduction of the most liberal abortion regime on these islands, and the current legacy bill before the UK Parliament
Yesterday evening, the Leaders of the Church of Ireland, Roman Catholic Church, Presbyterian Church in Ireland, Methodist Church in Ireland and Irish Council of Churches met with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Rt Hon Chris Heaton-Harris MP. The Church Leaders’ Group (Ireland) stressed, “the need for urgent action to be taken in light of the fact that the people of Northern Ireland are experiencing the worst cost of living crisis in generations.” The Church Leaders were speaking after they met the Secretary of State at Hillsborough Castle on Wednesday evening (26 October) where they were able to relay to him the reality of life for ordinary people from their congregations and parishes across Northern Ireland, outlining the significant stress that is being caused by the fear of what is coming in the months ahead.
Church Leaders’ statement
“Wednesday evening’s meeting was a long-standing arrangement and we welcomed the opportunity to meet with Mr Heaton-Harris for the first time since his appointment last month, and his reappointment by the new Prime Minister on Tuesday. We stressed the need for urgent action to be taken in light of the fact that the people of Northern Ireland are experiencing the worst cost of living crisis in generations.
“Together we were able to relay to him the reality of life for ordinary people from across our congregations and parishes, outlining the significant stress that is being caused by the fear of what is coming in the months ahead and the uncertainty about the support that is being offered.
“While outlining some of the initiatives that our Churches are undertaking on the ground, as they seek to make a difference, we took the opportunity to urge the Secretary of State to give the clarity that is needed in relation to the support that has been promised, especially for the most vulnerable in our society, who are always affected the most when there is a cost of living crisis.
“In a productive and wide-ranging conversation, we also discussed the current uncertainty around the political situation in Northern Ireland and the importance of maintaining stability, regardless of whatever scenario evolves after this Friday’s deadline expires to re-establish the Executive. We also took the opportunity to highlight the increasingly strained relationships on these islands, and within local communities, caused by the outworking of Brexit and the resulting Northern Ireland Protocol.
“Together we urged the Secretary of State to encourage his colleague, the Foreign Secretary, to work for a negotiated settlement with the European Union that deals with both the trade issues, and enables people to be secure in their identity, allowing relationships to improve.
“As Church Leaders we also raised two important issues that the UK government had acted on in recent years – the introduction of the most liberal abortion regime on these islands, and the current legacy bill before Parliament – outlining the concerns of many on both these highly sensitive issues.”
Right Reverend Andrew Forster
President of the Irish Council of Churches
Right Reverend Dr John Kirkpatrick
Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland
Most Reverend John McDowell
Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh & Primate of all Ireland
Most Reverend Eamon Martin
Roman Catholic Archbishop of Armagh & Primate of all Ireland
Reverend David Nixon
President of the Methodist Church in Ireland
Solemnity of All Saints
Tuesday 1st November is the Solemnity of All Saints, and a holy day of obligation.
Holy days of obligation are the days on which we’re expected to go to Mass. Every Sunday is a holy day of obligation in itself, as are some extra days like All Saints’ Day. The obligation can be dispensed from for a just reason, for example physical illness, being a sole caregiver to a homebound person, or having an inability to go to Mass.
Mass times on the day are 10.30am & 7.30pm. Please note there will be no Vigil Mass on the Monday evening nor a lunchtime Mass on Tuesday.
All Souls’ Day 2022
Wednesday 2nd November is All Souls Day (Commemoration of the Faithful Departed). Although not a holy day of obligation, there will be an extra Mass at 7.30pm on that day, as well as the usual 10.30am Mass.
Monastic Experience Weekend 4 – 6 November 2022
A weekend for those considering a calling to live monastic life with the Cistercian monks of Our Lady of Bethlehem Abbey, Portglenone is being held on 4 – 6 November 2022. For further information contact Fr Aelred ocso at E frmagee@yahoo.co.uk
Hail Holy Queen Conference 2022
Hail Holy Queen Conference 2022 is live on Radio Maria Ireland from 2pm on Saturday 15th October. Speakers include Fr. Vincent Stapleton, Antonia Moffat, Fr. Brian Mckevitt OP, Katrina Leyden. Radio Maria Ireland can be listened to by downloading the Radio Maria Ireland APP, Saorview Channel 210 or listen live at (01)4373277
Annual Blessing of Roses – October 1st / 2nd
This weekend we are celebrating our annual blessing of roses at all Masses in our parish.
Please bring along roses to be blessed to Mass.
If you missed this opportunity, you’ll find the Prayer of Blessing below. Maybe trace the sign of the Cross on a rose as you pray this beautiful prayer?
Missio Ireland have produced an activity calendar for children to help celebrate the missionary work of the Church this October.
Why not download this calendar and help mark this special month in a special way?
You can download the calendar here:
Mission Month Activity Calendar 2022
CHILDREN’S DAY OF MISSION PRAYER
FRIDAY 14th OCTOBER 2022
Here in Ireland, we have a deep-rooted tradition of supporting missionaries. Being missionary is an inherent part of being Christian. But, if we want our youngest Christians to engage with the missionary outreach of the Church, we need to invest time, energy and resources. This is why, since 2007, we’ve celebrated Children’s Day of Mission Prayer. Held on the second Friday of October, it’s a celebration that motivates and encourages children to put their love into action through prayer and giving.
Why not use this wonderful prayer resource with the children in your life?
Download the resource here:
https://missio.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Childrens-Mission-Month-Resource.pdf
Certificate in Christian Thought –
Adult Faith Development Programme
Two-year, part-time course, now enrolling for 2022-2023 intake. The Certificate in Christian Thought invites you to learn, reflect and discuss aspects of spirituality, theology and scripture at a greater depth. It is possible to do the course for personal development solely and/or to complete the written assignments required by St Mary’s University College, which validates the course.
For further information, please email maura@drumalis.co.uk or phone Drumalis during office hours 02828 276455/02828 272196
Statement by the Northern Catholic Bishops
on the current economic crisis
for the Feast of Saint Vincent de Paul
- “For the poorest in our society, this is an emergency, not a crisis. We call on everyone, from public representatives to parishioners in our parishes, to come together in a spirit of solidarity and active concern for those who are in need among us at this time.”
- “Despite political differences about the Protocol and a future border poll, the most urgent duty on our local MLAs, of all parties, is to prioritise concrete actions that will address the life or death situation many people and businesses face now, and in the months ahead.” – Northern Bishops
Statement
On this, the Feast Day of Saint Vincent de Paul, we, the Northern Catholic bishops, want to raise our voices in urgent concern about the challenges facing the most vulnerable in our society, as multiple economic pressures converge to create life threatening levels of deprivation and fear for individuals and businesses. For the poorest in our society, this is an emergency, not a crisis. We call on everyone, from public representatives to parishioners in our parishes, to come together in a spirit of solidarity and active concern for those who are in need among us at this time.
Every day seems to bring news of dramatic and unplanned increases in the cost of basic essentials such as food, fuel and heating. More and more low and middle income families, older people and vital businesses in our economy, are gripped with fear as they think about what lies ahead this autumn and winter. The recent Westminster budget has done little to lift this fear and the absence of an Executive at Stormont is unquestionably impeding the effort to respond to the depth and urgency of the situation. We therefore urge a combined effort from all those in Church, politics and society to help address this crisis now; to act justly, to promote the common good and to show solidarity with the many thousands of families who are enduring hardship and worry.
Politicians have a particular duty to ensure the basic needs of citizens are being met and to reassure those in need that serious, meaningful help is on its way. What has been offered to date, does not go far enough to meet that need. Indeed, the “fiscal plan” presented last week to the Westminster parliament represents an unjust distribution of resources which will benefit the richest but bring little comfort to those hardest hit and most at risk in these trying times. This highlights once more the need for working devolved politics in Northern Ireland that can deliver for the real needs of people here, especially lowest income families and many small and medium businesses, key employers on this part of the island, on the brink of collapse. Despite political differences about the Protocol and a future border poll, the most urgent duty on our local MLAs, of all parties, is to prioritise concrete actions that will address the life or death situation many people and businesses face now, and in the months ahead.
Of particular concern, is the fact that in Northern Ireland, one in four children are living in poverty – one of the highest levels of child poverty of any population in Europe. This is despite the fact that a Child Poverty Strategy has been promised for years now – most recently in the New Decade New Approach agreement – but has not yet been delivered, 25 years on since the Good Friday Agreement.
Recent research from our Marriage Care Service, ACCORD, also points to the intensifying pressure the financial crisis is having on families, with 81% of those surveyed reporting that worries concerning money are a primary point of family and relationship pressure. It is known that many families here already have less than £100 per month in disposable income. We also know that, in comparison with other parts of these islands, more people here are reliant on social security, more people are in fuel poverty, more people are in absolute poverty and we have some of the highest levels of working poor. This means that the impacts of this emergency will be felt most acutely here.
We accept that there is also much that we in the Churches can do to help. The amazing positive response at parish and community level during the Covid-19 pandemic shows what can be achieved when people work together. We commend and thank the many charitable organisations and partnerships that are already delivering help to people on the ground, as they have always done. A similar effort is now needed.
We therefore call on all of our parish communities to BE ALERT for those who are most impacted by the current emergency, recognising that hardship is often hidden and that many people suffer in silence, being reluctant to go out and seek help. We invite our congregations, like St. Vincent de Paul and after the example of Jesus himself, to put the poorest and most vulnerable among us first, and to reflect in prayer on what more they can do to help ordinary families and those in need over coming weeks and months.
Food banks, Saint Vincent de Paul Conferences and other charitable outreaches urgently need new volunteers and more resources due to the unprecedented demand which is likely to get worse as winter approaches. Parish Pastoral Councils might consider extending their existing parish hall activities or providing warm spaces, hot meals, fuel vouchers or other helpful initiatives in response to this urgent situation.
Psalm 34 reminds us that “The Lord hears the cry of the poor”. At a personal level, let us all be open to hearing and responding to “the cry of the poor” in our midst – both at local and global level. And if we are fortunate enough to have sufficient resources to keep ourselves warm and nourished this winter, let us think of others who are struggling simply to survive. A time like this calls us to examine our own relationship with the material goods of this earth in light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, friend of the poor. The Word of God challenges us today to give as generously as possible; to be especially conscious of any waste of food, energy, or other resources that we sometimes so easily take for granted; and, to join our voices with those who call for real change in government policy and priorities so that social injustice, inequality and poverty can be eliminated here, and everywhere.
To conclude, we encourage our Parish communities to reflect prayerfully on the “pact” signed in Assisi on Saturday last by Pope Francis together with young people from all over the world:
We, young economists, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, called here to Assisi from every part of the world, aware of the responsibility that rests on our generation, commit ourselves today, individually and all collectively to spending our lives so that the economy of today and tomorrow becomes an economy of the Gospel, and therefore:
an economy of peace and not of war;
an economy that opposes the proliferation of arms, especially the most destructive;
an economy that cares for creation and does not misuse it;
an economy at the service of the human person, the family and life, respectful of every woman, man, and child, the elderly, and especially those most frail and vulnerable;
an economy where care replaces rejection and indifference;
an economy that leaves no one behind, in order to build a society in which the stones rejected by the dominant mentality become cornerstones;
an economy that recognizes and protects secure and dignified work for everyone;
an economy where finance is a friend and ally of the real economy and of labour and not against them;
an economy that values and safeguards the cultures and traditions of peoples, all living things and the natural resources of the Earth;
an economy that fights poverty in all its forms, reduces inequality and knows how to say with Jesus and St Francis, “Blessed are the poor;”
an economy guided by an ethics of the human person and open to transcendence;
an economy that creates wealth for all, that engenders joy and not just riches, because happiness that is not shared is incomplete.
We believe in this economy.
It is not a utopia, because we are already building it. And some of us, on particularly bright mornings, have already glimpsed the beginning of the promised land.
A Day of God’s Love, Mercy and Healing – 8 October –
Oasis of Peace Centre, Collon
Many have heard Evangelist John Pridmore’s story from London Gangster to encountering Christs Love. He has spoken in 16 countries this year alone, and to over 500,000 people at World Youth Day. Join us at the Oasis of Peace Centre Mellifont Abbey, Collon, Co Louth, for this “Come Back to your Catholic Faith Day” on Saturday 8th October. Testimonies, Talks & Healing Service. For further information contact Deacon John or Deacon Pat 08 9 6152568 or www.apostlesoflove.ie.
Coastal Rosary for Faith & Life in Ireland
On Sunday October 9th, the annual Coastal Rosary will take place at 2.30pm. Join thousands of people from around Ireland to pray the Rosary for Life and Faith at our coasts, grottos, rivers, churches, and other suitable places. Simply sign up a Rosary location at www.coastalrosaryireland.ie or text your location to 087 278 6552.
Mary’s Meals is a simple solution to world hunger. In our 20th year, we provide a daily meal to over 2 million children every school day in some of the world’s poorest countries. The daily meal we serve enables children to come to the classroom rather than having to work, beg or scavenge for their food.
It costs just €18.30 to feed a child in a place of education for an entire school year.
This is only possible because of our army of volunteers; both the local people and those here in Ireland, who do so much to raise awareness and the essential funds needed to feed the next child waiting. To get involved or for more information, please check out www.marysmeals.ie or contact Angela Moore at 0035389-4339592 or angela.moore@marysmeals.org.
Sharing the Good News Issue 79
Wednesday 7 September 2022
This week features the search for Ireland’s favourite hymn by the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin; a special day of prayer for the people of Ukraine on Lough Derg; the beatification of Pope John Paul I; Trócaire’s response to the devastating floods in Pakistan and Archbishop Farrell’s acknowledgement of the contribution of Holy Cross to the life of the Church as part of a formal farewell event at Clonliffe.
Read it here:
https://catholicnews.ie/?na=view&id=4
Growth in Prayer and Reflective Living
Do you feel restless, do you sense there is a deeper meaning to life, that God is out there but you feel disconnected. The Growth in Prayer and Reflective Living may be for you. This 20 session course via Zoom between September and March is based on the insights of Ignatian Spirituality. For further details, have a look at the Drumalis Facebook page or website or contact Drumalis during office hours (Mon-Fri, 9 am – 5 pm) – 028 28276455/28272196 or email drumalis@btconnect.com
Adult Faith Courses in Drumalis Conference & Retreat Centre, Larne
Pathways – Adult Faith Development Programme
Two-year, part-time course, now enrolling for 2022-2023 intake. Have you ever thought about exploring your faith… or wished that you could broaden your understanding of your faith? Would you like to explore, discuss and reflect upon issues and questions of faith, the Church, and how to link faith to life? If the answer is “yes”, then Pathways may be for you.
The course runs one Saturday per month (10 am – 4:30 pm) from October to June, either in-house at Drumalis, Larne or online via Zoom. To register for Pathways, please contact Drumalis during office hours (Mon-Fri, 9 am – 5 pm) – 028 28276455/28272196 or email maura@drumalis.co.uk Further information also available on Drumalis website: http://www.drumalis.co.uk
Trócaire is looking for people to join our team of Christmas fundraisers to help respond to the urgent need of poor communities around the world, especially the millions of people affected by the hunger crisis in East Africa. You can take action and make a difference through a range of activities, including the promotion of our Gifts of Love – training and support will be provided.
If you would like to find out more about what you can do to help now or over the Advent and Christmas period, then please email Mark McMahon at infoni@trocaire.org or call 028 9090 8030.
For single women, (20 -40) who are wondering if the Lord is inviting them to Dominican Monastic Contemplative Life. “If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” (Psalm 94)
Please contact: Sr Mairéad OP, Monastery of St Catherine of Siena, The Twenties, Drogheda, Co. Louth. A92 KR84. Tel: 041 9838524; e-mail: sienavoc@gmail.com www.dominicannuns.ie
The Poor Clares, Galway are hosting a Monastic Experience Day on Saturday September 24th from 10am to 5pm. The day is designed to help young women who are exploring the possibility of a religious vocation to find out more about the Poor Clare way of life. If you are under 40 and would like to attend the day you can book a place at: vocations@poorclares.ie
SMA Novena 2022
In honour of St. Thérèse Of the Child Jesus
Patroness of the Missions
Friday 23rd September to Saturday 1st October
Daily Mass & Novena Prayers. At 10.00am & 7.30pm
SMA Chapel Dromantine. All Welcome.
Also, via webcam (www.sma.ie)
African Missions, Dromantine, Newry, BT34 1RH
Lough Derg Day of Prayer for Peace in Ukraine
The One Day Retreat on Sunday 25th September, will have the special focus of praying for an end to the conflict in Ukraine. Guest Speaker, refugee, Halyna Tesluk, Associate Professor of Old Testament at The Ukrainian Catholic University. More information at www.loughderg.org.
Boats from 9.15am | Retreat Programme begins at 10.15am | Boats return at 4.30pm
Morning Coffee & lunch included. Booking essential. Special discounted rate of €25 for Ukrainian refugees (must be booked by telephone: +353 (0)71 9861518). Full price €45
Supporting Catholic Parents
On Tuesday 6th September, there will be a conference on Zoom hosted by ‘The Hook of Faith’. The topic of the conference will be: ‘Supporting Catholic Parents: Sharing the Catholic Vision of Love and Human Sexuality with Our Children’. The speaker will be Fr Chris Hayden, author of the recently published book: ‘A Better Vision: Understanding and Living the Catholic Vision of Human Sexuality’.
The conference will begin at 8pm and conclude at 9pm. All are welcome. All you need to do to take part is send an email to: thehookoffaith@gmail.com. This conference is designed to help Catholic parents be the best educators of their children in the areas of faith and morality in our modern culture.
THE 12: 10 TH Anniversary Year
To celebrate the tenth anniversary this year of the formation of ‘The 12’ , and in thanksgiving for the blessings the Lord has bestowed on us on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 September, The 12 are offering to all who are interested the opportunity to experience the power of ‘New Life in the Spirit Seminars’ over the course of a single weekend. The venue is the Servite Priority in Benburb Co. Tyrone. All the topics of the regular Seminars will be covered. Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be celebrated on both days.
The Seminars will begin at 9am and finish at 5pm each day, and accommodation is available through the Priory by phoning 04837548241or email at hello@benburbpriory.com Participants are advised to bring a packed lunch for the midday break, and there is a small restaurant available onsite.
We recommend this weekend to those who are new to the Seminars, which are so strongly
advocated by Pope Francis as being highly desirable for every parishioner. Contact: Tracey
07880701387 or Annette 07887745981
Conference in Benburb Priory – The ‘Meaning Crisis’, Modernity, and the Christian Way
Benburb Priory will host a one-day conference on the meaning crisis (rise in suicides, depression, and more) and the Christian way, today. The conference will feature leading Christian thinkers, including Paul Kingsnorth, Paul Vander Klay, and Fr Calvin Robinson. This event will take place on Friday 2nd September. Tickets are available at www.Benburbpriory.com. All welcome.
ROADWORKS AT OUR PARISH CHURCH
Although there are roadworks in progress on the Drumalane Road, the Parish has been assured that access to the church / car park will still be possible.
Our Latest Mass for the Sick
Novena to Our Lady of the Assumption
Our annual Novena to Our Lady of the Assumption takes place from 7th – 15th August. The Novena Prayers will be recited at all Masses during this time. You can find the Novena Prayer and the daily prayers here:
Novena to Our Lady of the Assumption
CLERGY APPOINTMENTS
FOR THE ARCHDIOCESE OF ARMAGH
EFFECTIVE 3 SEPTEMBER 2022
Archbishop Eamon Martin announces the following clergy appointments for the Archdiocese of Armagh, effective 3 September 2022.
Archbishop Eamon thanks the priests and deacons of the Archdiocese for their continued ministry and service, and wishes well those who are taking up these new appointments. He also thanks the people of the Archdiocese of Armagh for their ongoing prayers and support of their clergy. He encourages them to welcome their new pastors in the coming weeks.
You can read the full list of appointments here:
https://www.armagharchdiocese.org/15245-2/
Sharing the Good News – July 2022
The latest edition of “Sharing the Good News” is now available. You can download the PDF here:
SHARING THE GOOD NEWS JULY 2022
The July issue features the following articles:
· National Novena at Knock Shrine to host a ‘Synod Tent’
· Photos from the National Pre-Synodal Assembly
· Families take centre stage at the World Meeting of Families in Rome
· Archbishop Dermot Farrell welcomes Apostolic Visitator for the Ukrainian Greek Catholic faithful in Ireland
· We will continue to advocate that both lives matter – Archbishop Martin at Rally for Life 2022
· Season of Creation Resources now available
· Reek Sunday Pilgrimage to go ahead in traditional format this year
· Grandparents and the elderly need to know they are valued and cherished – Bishop Nulty
· News in pictures: National Pre-Synodal Assembly in Athlone and Clonmacnoise
Pope Francis has established a World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, which will take place for the second time on Sunday 24 July 2022 on the theme ‘In old age they will still bear fruit (Ps 92:15)’. The World Day was established to be celebrated on the Sunday closest to the Feast Day of Saints Joachim and Anne on 26 July.
To read Pope Francis’ letter for this special day, click here:
https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/nonni/documents/20220503-messaggio-nonni-anziani.html
In a decree published on Monday 30 May, the Apostolic Penitentiary – the Vatican tribunal responsible for issues relating to mercy and the forgiveness of sins in the Church – announced several grants of indulgences for those taking part in the second World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, which this year falls on Sunday 24 July.
A plenary indulgence, which may also be obtained in suffrage for the souls in Purgatory, is granted:
– to grandparents, the elderly, and the faithful who, motivated by a true spirit of penance and charity, will participate on July 24th in the solemn celebration that Pope Francis will preside over in the Vatican, or in the various functions that take place throughout the world;
– to the faithful who, on the same day, devote adequate time to visit, in person or virtually through the media, their disabled brothers and sisters in need or in difficulty (such as the sick, the abandoned, or the disabled
– to the sick elderly and to all those who, unable to leave their homes for a serious reason, will unite spiritually with the sacred services of the World Day, offering to the Merciful God their prayers, the pains and sufferings of their lives, especially while the words of the Supreme Pontiff and the various celebrations are broadcast through the media
The grants of indulgence, “from the heavenly treasures of the Church,” are made under the usual conditions of sacramental Confession, Eucharistic confession, and prayers for the intentions of the Pope.
(Texts & images used in this post from www.catholicbishops.ie)
Annual Novena Escorted Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine, Ireland, 15th August 2022. £599.00 per person sharing. Price includes return bus transfer from Northern Ireland, 4 nights’ in Knock House Hotel with full board. All entertainment and excursions included. Avail of Novena Ceremonies. Day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre & National Museum. Single supplement £100.00. Contact Patricia on 01268 762 278 or 07740 175557 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com.
National Grandparents Pilgrimage, Knock Shrine on 24 July at 3.00 pm
The National Grandparents Pilgrimage will take place at Knock Shrine on 24 July at 3.00 pm, together with the second World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. The principal celebrant will be Archbishop Francis Duffy, Archbishop of Tuam and Patron of the Catholic Grandparents Association. The Mass can be viewed at www.knockshrine.ie/watch.
22 June 2022 – General Secretary for the Synodal Pathway for the Catholic Church in Ireland
(Fixed term – 4 year period)
The Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference wishes to appoint a General Secretary for the Synodal Pathway for the Catholic Church in Ireland. The role of the General Secretary will be to coordinate the work of the Synodal Pathway with responsibility for consultation, planning, communications and administration.
The successful applicant will have:
- A third level qualification in a relevant discipline or three years’ work experience in a relevant area
- At least three years’ experience in a senior project management role
- Experience in financial planning and management
- Experience in managing staff and/or volunteers
- Experience of strategic planning
- Experience of servicing committees
- Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills
- Self-motivation, with demonstrable administrative, leadership and management skills
- Understanding of the concept and practice of synodality in the Catholic Church
- Understanding of issues of faith and belief in contemporary Ireland
- Evidence of personal Christian faith in practice and expression
- A willingness to be flexible with regard to working hours
- A willingness to travel throughout Ireland as required, with the potential for some international travel as part of the role.
The General Secretary’s responsibilities will include the day-to-day running of the office, annual budget projections and production of an annual report.
A competitive remuneration package, commensurate with experience, will apply to this appointment. A detailed job description and application form is available below
Job description for General Secretary for the Irish Synodal Pathway
Application Form – General Secretary for the Synodal Pathway for the Catholic Church in Ireland
Applicants should send completed application form and existing remuneration package details to:
Executive Administrator, Columba Centre, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, or by email to: admin@iecon.ie no later than 5.00 pm on 12 July 2022.
Interviews will take place in Maynooth in the week commencing 25 July 2022.
Please note that agency assistance is not required for this position.
St Oliver Plunkett Sunday in Drogheda takes place this year on 3 July, the first Sunday of July, as usual.
Procession of Relics from Holy Family Church at 3.00pm. Mass at 4.00pm in St. Peter’s Church.
Celebrant: Bishop Michael Router.
Homilist: Canon Benny Fee, PP, Clonoe.
All are welcome.
Prayer to St Oliver Plunkett
Glorious Martyr, St Oliver, who willingly gave your life for your faith, help us also to be strong in faith. May we be loyal like you to the See of Peter. By your intercession and example, may all hatred and bitterness be banished from the hearts of Irish men and women. May the peace of Christ reign in our hearts, as it did in your heart, even at the moment of your death. Pray for us and for Ireland. Amen.
WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES 2022
The 10th World Meeting of Families is taking place this week from 22 – 26 June in Rome on the theme, ‘Family love: a vocation and a path to holiness.’ The delegation from Ireland includes family members led by the President of the Bishops’ Conference, Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh, and the chair of the Council for Marriage & Family, Bishop Denis Nulty of Kildare & Leighlin.
Ireland hosted the 9th World Meeting of Families in August 2018 which was attended by Pope Francis, and tens of thousands of people from home and abroad.
This year’s World Meeting of Families has been adapted to suit the post-pandemic world and therefore will be smaller in terms of the numbers with just 2,000 delegates gathered in Rome. But, it is still possible for families across Ireland to be part of the event by joining in online as we became accustomed to doing during the pandemic.
All of the gatherings that are part of this year’s World Meeting will be live-streamed. You can find more information – including a link to the live broadcast and the daily programme – here: https://www.romefamily2022.com/en/
Why not join us in praying Pope Francis’ Prayer Intention for June – For Families?
When things are going well for you, or when they aren’t going so well, there’s a place where you always know that you will find the love you need: your family. The Pope is dedicating his prayer intention to the family for the second month in a row, precisely as the World Meeting of Families draws near.
And he does it reminding us that “The family is the place where we learn to live with one another, to live with young people and with those who are older”. He also reminds us of the difficulties that may arise, since “there are always ‘buts.’” Nonetheless, at these moments of difficulty “the Lord is there and accompanies us, helps us, and corrects us,” reminding us that “family love is a personal path of holiness for each one of us.” Join the Pope’s prayer and share his intention with your family.
“The family is the place where we learn to live with one another, to live with young people and with those who are older.
And by being united—young people, the elderly, adults, children—,by being united in our differences, we evangelize with our example of life.
Of course, there is no such thing as a perfect family. There are always “buts.”
But that doesn’t matter. We shouldn’t be afraid of mistakes; we have to learn from them so we can move forward.
Let’s not forget that God is with us: in our family, in our neighborhood, in the city where we live, He is with us.
And He takes care of us. He remains with us at all times in the swaying of the boat tossed by the sea: when we argue, when we suffer, when we’re joyful, the Lord is there and accompanies us, helps us, and corrects us.
Family love is a personal path of holiness for each one of us.
This is why I chose it as the theme for this month’s World Meeting of Families.
Let us pray for Christian families around the world; may each and every family embody and experience unconditional love and advance in holiness in their daily lives.”
Stefano Colleouri, of the Redemptoris Mater Seminary, Dundalk, will be ordained to the #Priesthood on Sunday, Feast of the Most Holy Trinity, at 3.00 p.m. in St Patrick’s Cathedral, #Armagh.
Please remember Stefano in your prayers – and pray for more #vocations.
A Journey of Faith, Hope and Joy with St Patrick
Come and be refreshed on ancient paths in the cradle of Christianity in Ireland. Poor Clares, Sr Martina Purdy and Sr Elaine Kelly will lead you on an amazing five day pilgrimage that includes guided walks to sites associated with St Patrick in County Down. Stay in Tobar Mhuire Retreat Centre, visit with monks along St Patrick’s Way, and capture the joy of the first Christians in Ireland. From £850 all inc meals, transport, activities. Details www.saintpatrickcentre.com or call centre Downpatrick 028 4461 9000
Oasis of Peace Centre Mellifont Abbey, Collon, Co Louth
Our Lady’s Pilgrim Day
The Apostles of Love Ireland invite you to join them on their retreat day of love, joy & peace at their Oasis of Peace Centre Mellifont Abbey, Collon, Co Louth on Saturday 25th June ( every last Saturday of Month) from 11am till Holy Mass at 5pm. Lunch available. Donations only. Call Deacon John / Pat (089) 615 2568 or www.apostlesoflove.ie
Prayer & Healing Day
Every Tuesday 11am till 2pm Adoration, prayer meeting, praise & worship. One/one prayer Ministry. Prayers for healing and blessings with St Peregrin relic (patron saint for cancers & tumours)
3pm -4pm Adoration & divine mercy.
Queries Deacon John/Pat (089) 615 2568 or (086) 8611531 www.apostlesoflove.ie
Here’s our latest Mass for the Sick, celebrated in Daisy Hill Hospital.
Please feel free to share with those who are sick at home, in hospital or in care.
Listening, Consultation and Diocesan Synthesis for the Universal Synod
May 2022 Update
On October 9-10th in Rome Pope Francis launched the theme of the 2023 Synod of Bishops – For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, Mission. The diocesan phase of the Synod was introduced in every parish across the Archdiocese of Armagh on October 17th 2021. This phase which involved all local Churches across the globe has represented the largest consultation of the lay faithful ever to take place and examines what life is like in the Church at this moment in time.
During February and March parishes, communities, schools and groups across the Archdiocese of Armagh focused on listening and discerning the voice of the Holy Spirit in the Archdiocese of Armagh.This listening culminated in a Pre-synodal gathering that took place in the Armagh City hotel on Tuesday 10th May and further to this a diocesan Synthesis was collated.
The Archdiocese of Armagh’s synthesis, which can be accessed by clicking the link below, has been passed on to the Irish Bishops Conference for consideration as part of the Irish Churches submission to the Universal Synodal Process.The Archdiocese wishes to thank all those who participated generously in the listening process and a special thanks is extended to members of the Diocesan Synodal Core Group. The fruits of this phase of the synodal pathway will be reflected on and brought forward as part of both the Irish Synodal Pathway and our own Synodal journey in the Archdiocese of Armagh.
You can read the diocesan synthesis here:
SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – SPECIAL EDITION
Here is a special edition of Sharing the Good News on the Synodal Pathway. In this issue, we profile Dr Nicola Brady’s cover story interview from the June issue of Intercom magazine.
This special edition also includes a piece on the Day of Prayer on Sunday 5 June which is being offered in thanksgiving for the Diocesan Phase of the Universal Synod. We also invite people to pray for the National Pre-Synodal Assembly taking place in Athlone and Clonmacnoise on Saturday 18 June.
For more on the Synod, visit https://synod.ie/
NOVENA OF PRAYER FOR LIFE BEGINS MONDAY 23rd MAY
Please do come join us and help support one of our youth group members with this wonderful mission!
Christ in the City is a homeless outreach volunteer program in Denver Colorado. Volunteers seek to be the face of Christ to all those they meet; to encounter those experiencing homelessness and form authentic friendships with them; to accompany their “friends on the street” as they navigate the many challenges of searching for housing and employment, fighting addiction, and reconciling relationships, among other difficulties.
You can donate to Sarah’s mission fundraising efforts here:
Anam Cara
The Irish Church Music Association are resuming their Summer School in St Patrick’s College, Maynooth, Co. Kildare on Thursday, 14 July and Friday. 15 July. They resume their ‘in person’ Summer School with two days of workshops this year. Dr John O’Keeffe, and Ronan McDonagh will be guest presenters on Thursday, 14 July.
No Visible Scar: Comfort for those Bereaved
Losing a loved one can be a lonely, isolating and disorienting experience. These feelings of loss have been felt even more keenly in the time of a global pandemic. This workshop provides a gentle, safe and comforting space to help those bereaved before or during the pandemic to better understand their feelings, sensitively unpack the layers of grief their loss has brought and learn how to respectfully carry grief and embrace life again.
Friday 20 May (arrive 5pm) – Sunday 22 May (depart 2pm)
220 Stg / 260 Euro
Workshop Facilitator: Father Hugh Lagan SMA
Fr Lagan is a priest with the Society of African Missions and a chartered clinical psychologist. He has led retreats, workshops and trainings internationally on psychological and spiritual well-being, positive change, trauma, mental health and resilience.
Please contact Jacinta or Louisa to reserve your place:
TEL: 028 (048 from ROI) 3082 1964
EMAIL: admin@dromantineconference.com
MAKE YOUR VOICES HEARD
A pastoral reflection by the Catholic Bishops of Northern Ireland on the forthcoming NI Assembly Election.
Politics, lived with integrity, and in a true spirit of service to the common good, is a noble vocation. The freedom to vote is a hard won and precious freedom. For Christians it is also part of our call to shape society in accordance with God’s plan for human dignity, freedom and happiness.
Make your voices heard.
In this short statement, we offer some reflections on the importance of voting in the forthcoming Assembly election in Northern Ireland. We encourage all citizens to make their voices heard. We do so, not as politicians or political commentators, but as pastors, inspired and motivated by the Gospel of Jesus Christ and guided by the principles of Catholic Social teaching, which have the well-being and dignity of every person at their core.
The responsibility of politics is to develop laws and policies that serve, protect and promote human dignity and the common good, in the particular circumstances of the society in which we live. We do not seek to endorse any political party or candidate. The hard work of weighing up who to vote for lies with each individual before God and in the privacy and primacy of their own conscience. We urge people to come out and vote, even though some are expressing a lack of confidence in the ability of politics to deliver meaningful change.
Poverty: an afront to our human dignity.
For many people here the hope of a new era of equality and prosperity promised by the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement has failed to materialise. Our society continues to face some of the highest levels of social inequality on these islands, including some of the highest levels of child poverty, fuel poverty and dramatically increasing numbers of ‘working poor’.
Poverty – the inability to meet our basic needs, especially those of our children, the elderly and those with disabilities, and to enjoy a reasonable standard of life – is an afront to human dignity. The consistent failure of our local Assembly and successive Westminster Governments to radically and fundamentally change the dynamics of poverty and social inequality in our society is a huge indictment on the priorities chosen by those elected to serve the common good.
Notwithstanding welcome improvements in levels of employment in recent years, wage levels here still rank among the lowest on these islands and the gap between the richest and the poorest continues to increase. The constitutional issue, while important, has dominated our local politics to a degree that routinely undermines political stability and prevents the full economic, social and human development of our society.
The urgent need to address our unacceptable levels of poverty, social inequality and the deepening crisis over the cost of living ought to be a fundamental issue for a follower of Jesus in the forthcoming election. While the constitutional issue, including resolving problems of implementing the NI Protocol, and preparing for a possible future border poll, have important implications for economics and identity, this cannot continue to supersede the urgent need to address the ever deepening crises of poverty, inadequate access to health services, housing insecurity and the need for a reasonable standard of living in our society. People’s lives and well-being are at risk. This should be a key priority and an urgent concern for all our politicians.
Life is precious: equal dignity for all, including the unborn.
We say to all voters: make your voice heard. Make your vote count. Speak up clearly and unequivocally for the rights and urgent needs of the most vulnerable in our society. This includes the rights and dignity of unborn children which are being increasingly relegated – culturally, politically and legally – to the realm of the worthless and sub-human.
We are very fortunate to live in an age when awareness of the preciousness of all forms of life and of every species on our planet is growing. We are more aware than ever that the intricate and interdependent systems of life on the earth, even in their most microscopic forms, need our constant care, respect and protection. All, that is, except unborn children in the womb!
In an inexplicable medical, scientific and cultural contradiction, so many of our local politicians seem willing to disregard the rights of our children in the earliest stages of their development before birth, while at the same time properly and stridently defending the rights of animals, plants, trees and rivers. In a similarly bizarre twist of logic, many who stridently proclaim their commitment to equality for all are, at the same time, quite content to support legislation that would discriminate against children in the womb, even directly targeting those with disabilities, and denying them the very right to be born.
We ask all voters to consider seriously the choice before them in this election – of supporting a loving, positive culture of life and care, or of further facilitating a culture that denies the very humanity and right to life of our unborn children, even directly targeting those with disabilities.
We believe it is possible to create a respectful and life-supporting environment for every person, at every stage and in every state of our lives. A culture of love and care that embraces all – especially the most vulnerable – offers the greatest hope for humanity and its future. Both mother and child in a crisis pregnancy have a right to a humane and life-affirming outcome for both. Rather than using medically destructive interventions to take away life, it is possible to build a loving and supportive society around every child in the womb, including those diagnosed with a disability.
We therefore encourage voters to make their voices heard by telling candidates on the doorsteps that they expect them, if elected, to work for the equal dignity of all, including the protection of all mothers and their unborn children.
A warm welcome to those in need.
Christians, and all people of goodwill, should seek to build a civilisation of love and care that promotes the well-being and progress of all. This culture of welcome and care includes an obligation to welcome those who are fleeing violent conflict, persecution, famine or other tragic human situations, including the increasingly irreversible consequences of climate change.
Since Brexit, ongoing changes to immigration laws and benefits processes are making the situation of migrants here increasingly difficult. Similarly, in contrast to the generous and welcoming response of the European Union, the so-called ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme recently introduced by the Westminster Government is proving too difficult to access and is so far failing to provide an effective response to the urgent needs of refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine.
Yet, the difficulties being experienced by Ukrainian refugees and migrants in general, is receiving little comment or attention from our local politicians.
We appeal for urgent cross-border cooperation on the island of Ireland to address the plight of Ukrainian refugees. We ask all those seeking election to the NI Assembly to pledge their support for ending the increasingly hostile policies and processes that are making our society a less welcoming place for migrants.
Building a culture of care for each other and for our common home.
Welcoming the stranger, protecting and nurturing human life in all its stages, these are fundamental values of the Christian faith. They extend also to our duty of care for the earth itself – our common home. As Pope Francis once put it, “A Christian who doesn’t safeguard creation, who doesn’t make it flourish, is a Christian who isn’t concerned with God’s work, that work born of God’s love for us.”
As he also pointed out, ‘“The earth, our home, is beginning to look more and more like an immense pile of filth… We received this world as an inheritance from past generations, but also as a loan from future generations, to whom we will have to return it!”
There is an urgent need to meet the commitments made at the Glasgow COP 26 Conference last November. This includes reviewing immediately our use of fossil fuels and developing more sustainable modes of agricultural, industrial and economic activity. These are important issues to be considered while weighing our Christian conscience in preparation for voting in the forthcoming election. In Ireland, we have the privilege of living in a particularly rich and beautiful natural environment. Ensuring this rich heritage is protected now and for future generations is a fundamental responsibility of every politician in their service of the common good.
Respect for religious freedom and for faith in the public square.
Those who stand for political office deserve our respect. Their role is often a difficult and challenging one and increasingly undermined by vile and highly personalised attacks, often from anonymous persons.
Those in public life are called to model respectful and constructive debate, and to demonstrate high standards of tolerance, inclusion and respect in public discourse and policy making.
Increasingly, those of religious faith and conviction can find themselves marginalised, excluded or treated differently from other groups in society. The idea that politics should be ‘neutral’ and ‘does not do religion’ is itself a concept that implicitly denigrates the right to hold and live by one’s religious convictions. Among the ways it manifests itself is in the view that, to be a truly tolerant and inclusive society, we must ‘liberate’ ourselves from religious institutions, religious identity and religious belief. As leaders in the Catholic faith we see this reflected, for example, in the erroneous charge that Catholic schools are divisive, or are somehow to blame for the violent conflict that pervaded our society. Similarly, it is suggested that a politician, or other public figure, with a religious faith, should never allow that faith to influence their approach to policy and legislation.
We encourage politicians and voters to support a truly diverse and tolerant political culture, and to challenge the trend towards a culture that claims to be secular but is in fact intolerant and increasingly hostile to religious faith and its right to offer a respected voice in the public square. Catholic and other faith-based schools contribute actively to reconciliation and the common good. They have the right to be treated equally and with respect.
Political stability serves the common good.
To address these issues effectively and urgently, our society requires a stable and effective Government. The absence of a functioning Executive has profoundly negative consequences for the most vulnerable in our society. A prolonged absence of the Assembly after the election would serve to destabilise society and disenfranchise many voters. Political stability and a functioning Executive will maximise social cohesion, provide the most fertile ground for economic prosperity and offer the greatest defence against those who would seek to manipulate a failure of politics for alternative means. A functioning and stable Executive and Assembly will provide the most stable space to work through the important issues of reconciliation, legacy and our constitutional future.
We remain convinced that human dignity and the common good of our society are best served by a commitment to the stability of our locally devolved institutions. We encourage all citizens to work to restore and help build a better future for all by making their voices heard in the forthcoming Assembly election.
Accord NI
If you feel your relationship is in crisis or you just need a little guidance.
If you and your partner feel you could benefit from Marriage & Relationship Counselling, contact your local ACCORD Centre.
Every year we help thousands of couples rebuild and sustain healthy relationships.
Protect your most precious investment. Let us, help you, support your marriage.
T: 02890 233002 for an appointment
E: info@accordni.com
W:www.accordni.com
Lough Derg Re-Opens
Lough Derg welcomes Pilgrims again with a full Pilgrimage programme this summer
Three Day Pilgrimage: 1st June – 15th August. Booking advised. Concessions available for students, seniors and groups.
One Day Retreats and guided Pilgrim Path experience: dates in May and late August through September. Booking essential.
All booking information at www.loughderg.org, email info@loughderg.org or telephone 0(0353) 71 9861518.
Trócaire Spring Gala Concert
Trócaire will be hosting a special Spring Gala Concert at Clonard Monastery, Belfast at 7.30pm on Friday 20th May, with performances from Margaret Keys, The Priests and St Dominic’s Girls’ School Choir. Tickets are free of charge but donations will be gratefully received on the night of the concert with all donations matched by the UK government in support of the 2022 Lent Appeal. To reserve tickets, visit www.eventbrite.co.uk and search ‘Clonard Concert Belfast’, email infoni@trocaire.org or call 028 9080 8030.
The Women of Faith Conference 2022
The Women of Faith Conference 2022 is LIVE on Radio Maria Ireland on Saturday 7th May from 2pm. We are blessed to have the following speakers. Sister Consilio (Cuan Mhuire), Wendy Grace (Catholic Speaker) Fr. Freddy Warner, SMA, Sister Susan Evangelist (Sister of Mercy) Dr. Edward Sri (Scripture Scholar). Please join us for this blessed event sponsored by Totus Tuus Magazine.
Radio Maria Ireland is accessible by:
1. Going online at www.radiomaria.ie
2. Download the Radio Maria IRELAND App to your smartphone or tablet
3. Listen live via Facebook
4. Call 01 4373277 and listen live
5. Listen through your TV on SAORVIEW Channel 210
Easter Peace- joint Easter 2022 message from Archbishop Eamon Martin and Archbishop John McDowell
The joyful carol that we know as the Carol of the Bells has its origins in a Ukrainian folk song which in ancient times was sung, not at Christmas, but at this time of the year to mark the fresh beginnings of spring. It tells the tale of a swallow flying into a home after the winter to promise the family a new season of joy, happiness and plenty.
It’s difficult to contemplate such a hopeful scene for the people of Ukraine this Easter as the world continues to witness the horror of death, destruction and displacement being visited on their country these past few months. Peace and prosperity seem a distant dream. It must be much easier for them to meditate on the pain of Good Friday, or on the emptiness of Holy Saturday, than on the joy and happiness of Easter morning.
And yet when the Lord appeared to his disciples after his resurrection, his opening words were ‘Peace be with you’. His words meant much more than the traditional ‘Shalom’ greeting, for in speaking Easter peace, he also showed his friends the wounds of violence in his hands and in his side – the marks of the Crucifixion. He therefore identifies himself to them as both the Crucified, and the Risen Saviour, one acquainted with suffering; his peace is offered through the blood of the Cross.
On the third day after the Crucifixion the disciples remained locked away, in fear and terror, shell-shocked by the trauma of seeing their hero – their Prince of Peace – tortured, mocked and horrifically nailed to a wooden Cross. But on resurrection day, the Risen Lord seeks them out, entering in behind the locked doors and walls of their fear and isolation. He had promised that he would not leave them as orphans and that he would gift them a peace that the world cannot give. Now, following his rejection, suffering, death and resurrection, he returns to reassure their troubled hearts that death and evil will not have the last word. He offers them words of deep peace and comfort: ‘Peace be with you’. ‘Do not be afraid’.
How much the world needs to hear and embrace this message of an Easter peace which does not deny the reality of suffering and death. From Ukraine to Tigray, from Syria to South Sudan, the Cross of Good Friday continues to cast its shadow in the suffering of millions caught up in the violence and aggression of war. Mercifully, also, the work of peacemakers and the enormous outpouring of love, welcome and humanitarian aid bears witness to the hope and promise of Easter peace that can never be extinguished by war or hatred. One day families will be reunited, homes rebuilt, livelihoods restored; the deafening noise of bombardment will give way once more to the sounds of bells ringing, and birds singing.
Last month, on Saint Patrick’s Day, we pointed out how war is a defeat for humanity; it represents the failure of politics, diplomacy and dialogue. We also remarked that what is happening today in Europe should help us learn lessons for our own peace process, about the importance of never taking our progress in peace for granted, never giving up on dialogue and the building of bridges and mutual understanding across historical divides. The tragedy of what we are witnessing in Ukraine during these days impels us again this Easter to be peacemakers and never to tire in working for a genuine human fraternity as the only way to resolve differences and conflicts.
Easter peace.
Matt Talbot Prayer Society
The Matt Talbot Prayer Society prays daily for those with addictions. You can enrol somebody to be prayed for each day as well as at the monthly Mass which takes place in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh. The monthly Mass takes place on the First Monday of each month at 7:30pm.
The Next Mass is on Monday 2nd May and we welcome everybody to join us in person or online. For more information, please visit www.matttalbotprayersociety.com where you can also enrol somebody via the online submission.
Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2022
Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2022 will be taking place this year from 26th September to 1st October.
The Pilgrimage will be operating through Marian Pilgrimages.
The fare is:
* 750 euro per person sharing (Single Room Supplement 190 euro)
* 720 youth fare
The ongoing impact and uncertainty around the Covid-19 Pandemic means that this will be a different Pilgrimage. We will not be in a position to provide Medical and Nursing Support in the Accueli Notre Dame to Assisted Pilgrims as in prior years. Those Pilgrims intending to travel will need to be able to travel independently or to be accompanied by a family member/carer who can provide all of their care and support needs.
All applicants will be required to complete a comprehensive booking form, which will include Medical information. Our Chief Medical Officer and his team will review this form prior to acceptance to travel. All applicants will need to provide proof of vaccination. While in Lourdes the Medical Team will be on call to serve the wider needs of our pilgrimage community and to oversee the implementation of our Covid Protocols, should the need arise.
Bookings can be made through your local committee, details of which are on a poster at the back of the Church.
Young Adult Catholic Conference
Young Adult Catholic Conference (18 – 40) – St Patrick’s College, Drumcondra, Saturday April 30th, 10am – 5pm. Hear great speakers, meet new friends and discover more about your Catholic faith. Cost €25, includes lunch. Search: Young Adult Catholic Conference on www.eventbrite.ie for more information and to book. See you there!
Archbishops of Armagh and Dublin thank parishioners for their extraordinary generosity of €3.25m to ease the Ukrainian crisis
Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh and Archbishop Dermot Farrell of Dublin, as President and Vice-President of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, have published the following statement to thank the parishes across Ireland for their extraordinary generosity in raising to date of over €3.25 million in response to the crisis in Ukraine. Following the invasion of Ukraine by Russia on 24 February, the Bishops of Ireland asked for a special collection in parishes across the island. This mainly took place over the weekend of 26 and 27 March, as an additional way of helping to address the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.
The Archbishops said, “Since the outbreak of this war, over 7 million people have been displaced and nearly 5 million people have been forced to emigrate from Ukraine, becoming international refugees. As Christians, our Gospel imperative is to support the victims of this appalling humanitarian crisis, in the words of the Holy Thursday Liturgy, ‘where charity and love are found there is God’.
“The large funds raised by Irish parishes will be channelled to assist those who are suffering such devastation to their lives and livelihoods. Parishes across Ireland have responded with enormous generosity and compassion and we are most grateful for that. It is also heartening that some parish communities have established direct links with Ukrainian parishes and local charitable projects to support refugees and those remaining in Ukraine. The proceeds of this special parish collection are already being sent to the international Catholic Church agency, Caritas Internationalis, which is currently operating on the ground in Ukraine and its surrounding areas.
The Archbishops concluded, “Following the sad news this week that seven people, including two Caritas staff, were killed when a Caritas office in Mariupol was shelled, we wish to acknowledge the bravery of humanitarian workers who risk their lives in providing much needed assistance and protection to innocent people who have been caught up in this war. We extend our prayers and deepest sympathy to their families, friends and fellow humanitarian workers.”
New Missionary Group: Apostles of Love Ireland opened in late 2021 by Archbishop Eamon
Check out our Facebook & website www.apostlesoflove.ie for all our activities. We are a new providential missionary group based in the Armagh Diocese on the grounds of Mellifont Abbey, Collon, Co Louth. We would like to inform you of our many activities at our Oasis of Peace Retreat Centre for prayer, healing and pastoral care. We welcome you to visit us any time for a cuppa and chat at our Forest view tea room.
• “Come Away & Find Rest” join us from a choice of one our Retreat Day’s to suit your needs
• Join us on one of our highly recommended “Our Lady’s Pilgrim Days” 11am-6pm on the last Saturday of each month (Medjugorje Style) – Our Lady’s School of Love or join us for our Monthly Holy Spirit School
• Apostles of Love Eucharistic Prayer Group on Tuesday 11am-1pm
• Our Scripture School (beginners 10.30am-12pm) (intermediate 12.30-2pm) every Thursday
• Book for our One – One Prayer & Healing Ministry, Unbound Ministry Pastoral Counselling or Spiritual accompaniment
• Matt Talbot Calix Addiction Recovery Group 3rd Saturday of Month, Be-Loved Faith & Support Group for Separated Ladies, St Joseph’s Food Chest for those in need
Contact Deacon John Taaffe 0868611531 or Deacon Pat Butterly 0868210522 or Joan in Office 089 6152568
CONSECRATION OF RUSSIA & UKRAINE TO THE IMMACULATE HEART
Pope Francis has invited us to join in prayer on Friday, 25 March, Feast of the Annunciation, as an act of global solidarity to pray for peace.
A short prayer service will be held in our church at 4pm on Friday 25th, the Feast of the Annunciation, to coincide with Pope Francis’ prayers in Rome.
Rediscover the meaning and fun in your marriage, your family life, and your commitment to each other. Experience the 7 thematic days of the CANA Week over three weekends through April, May & June. Including Talks, Testimonies and most importantly of all, Time to share with each other as a couple and with other couples. Contact details: Brian & Lisa Harmon 041 6851563, 086 8386725 or 0879080023 info@canaireland.org. www.canaireland.org.
Anam Cara Armagh, the organisation that supports bereaved parents, is holding a Parent Evening for bereaved parents on Wednesday 30th March at 7:15pm in the The Armagh City Hotel, Armagh, BT601E. This event is free and open to all bereaved parents regardless of the age your child died, the circumstances of their death, or whether their death was recent or not. We also offer an online support service. Contact us on info@anamcara.ie or 028 95213120 for any queries.
Joint message by the Archbishops of Armagh for Saint Patrick’s Day 2022
“What is happening today in Europe should help us learn lessons for our own peace process, about the importance of never taking our progress in peace for granted, never giving up on dialogue and the building of bridges and mutual understanding across historical divides”
“May all Christians of Europe, including Patriarch Kirill and the Russian Orthodox Church, unite in daily spiritual and practical efforts in support of a ceasefire, humanitarian outreach and the immediate laying down of weapons”
You can read the full message here:
Sharing the Good News – February 2022
The February issue features the following articles:
• It is incumbent on all of us to support engaged and married couples – Bishop Michael Router
• Bishop Michael Duignan of Clonfert appointed by Pope Francis to serve also as Bishop of Galway
• Archbishop Eamon Martin lays foundation stone for Redemptoris Mater Seminary extension on Dundalk
• Bishop Nulty welcomes theme for the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly 2022
• Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth offers new eight week ‘Lectio Divina’ online course
• Day of Prayer for Survivors and Victims of Abuse 2022
• Members of the Steering Committee and Task Group of the Irish Synodal Pathway meet in person for the first time
• Catholic Education Partnership launches new website and Twitter profile
• News in pictures: Mass celebrated by Bishop Denis Nulty on the Feast of Saint Valentine in Whitefriar Street Church, Dublin; Opening of Our Lady of Hope Special School in Crumlin; Bishop Noel Treanor ordains six men as permanent deacons; and, Father Eugene O’Neill blesses engaged couple in Saint Patrick’s Church in Belfast.
You can download this issue as a PDF here:
Sharing the Good News February 2022
Review of Safeguarding in the Archdiocese of Armagh
The Archdiocese of Armagh has invited the National Board for Safeguarding Children in the Catholic Church in Ireland (NBSCCCI) to conduct a review of safeguarding practice in March 2022. If you have any views about Safeguarding in the Archdiocese, we invite you to come forward to us at the Diocesan Office (028 3752 5592), or to the NBSCCCI (01-5053124).
If you wish to report a child safeguarding concern, please contact Mr. Aidan Gordon on (028)3752 5592/078 4110 1687 or Ms. Eleanor Kelly on (028) 3752 5592/075 8432 3138. You may also wish to contact An Garda Síochána/PSNI or TUSLA/HSC.An Garda Siochana may be contacted on the Confidential Reporting Line 1800 666 111The PSNI may be contacted on 101Tusla may be contacted on 042 939 2200The Southern HSC Trust may be contacted on 028 3756 7100
In response to Pope Francis’ plea for Ash Wednesday to be a day of fasting and prayer especially for peace in Ukraine, please join us in person or online for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Benediction this Wednesday at 8pm.
The Kiss of Christ
For over a century, Catholics—individually and as a church—have been re-discovering the life, nourishment, inspiration, and consolation of God’s word. To hear God’s word is a gift of God to those who listen with open hearts. It is a gift of the Holy Spirit, and the gift of Risen Lord. It comes in its own time to those who are ready to receive it. Receiving the Word is also an art of the soul, which like every human capacity must develop and grow.
From ancient times, both Christian and Jewish believers have developed the art of listening for, and responding to God’s word. In our Catholic tradition, this is called lectio divina, sacred reading. It is a way of hearing God’s voice, seeking God’s will, and discovering how we try to live it.
The Kiss of Christ is a short hybrid course (online and at home/in parish) to introduce the way of lectio divina and to support those who would wish to practice it during Lent 2022.
To register, visit https://aspal.ie/courses/thekissofchrist/
Here is our latest Mass for the Sick, celebrated in the chapel in Daisy Hill Hospital.
Please feel free to share with those who are sick at home or in hospital or in care, and those who care for them.
With humility of heart, we pray to God,
whose love and faithfulness endures forever.
1. We pray for people who have been abused
whether physically, mentally, emotionally or sexually
that the Lord of all tenderness and compassion
will restore them and give them peace.
2. We pray that we become more and more a community
that actively protects the most vulnerable people of society, particularly our children.
3. We pray that the Spirit of Wisdom enlightens people
to put an end to acts of violence and abuse.
4. We pray for the healing professions
who minister to those who suffer violence and abuse,
that God will give them an abundance of wisdom, compassion and love.
God our rock and our strength on whom we lean,
help us to create an atmosphere of trust
which allows the unspeakable to be said.
Help us to live with our painful memories.
May we support each other and be safe places for each other.
Through Christ, our Lord.
Experience Faith, Hope and Love with your family on a week-long Family Holiday Conference during Easter week! Activities for the whole family including workshops, talks, seminars, healing ministries and Mass each day.
Where: Tramore Co. Waterford
When: Easter Sunday evening until Friday 22nd April
For booking and more information see www.arisefamilyconference.ie
Reflection Days at SMA Dromantine
Sun. 6th March 9.30am – 5.30pm
‘A Lenten Day of Reflection’ provides time and space to reflect and pray on Lenten Themes in preparation for the celebration of Holy Week and Easter.
Led by Fr. Damian Bresnahan SMA Cost (including full lunch) £35/E40
Fri. 11th 5pm – Sun. 13th March (2pm)
‘The Wonder of Creation: the Miracle of Life’
Message of Hope and challenge in a Planetary Emergency. In contemplating the wonder of our Common Home and current threats to its integrity, we will explore an ecological vision in responding to the cry of the poor at this time of unprecedented planetary change.
Led by Sr. Nellie Mc Laughlin RSM Cost: including full board £220 / E260
Tel.(028)30821964 email:admin@dromantineconference.com
UPDATE/REMINDER OF SAFETY MEASURES
You’ll find the latest update re our Covid-19 guidance on our parish website here:
Covid-19 Guidance
Anam Cara Armagh, the organisation that supports bereaved parents, is holding a Parent Evening for bereaved parents on Wednesday 23rd February at 7:20pm in the
The Armagh City Hotel, Armagh, BT601E. This event is free and open to all bereaved parents regardless of the age your child died, the circumstances of their death, or whether their death was recent or not. Contact us on info@anamcara.ie or 028 95213120 for any queries.
Armagh Parish Holy Spirit Prayer Group – New Life in the Spirit Seminars
St Malachy’s Church on Wednesday evenings beginning on Wednesday 9th February 2022.
Wed 9 Feb Introduction and Testimony (Annette Creelman)
Wed 16 Feb Gods Love (Deacon John Taaffe)
Wed 23 Feb Salvation (Archbishop Eamon Martin)
Wed 2 March The New Life (Lorraine Quigley)
Wed 9 March Receiving Gods Gifts (Lynette McShane)
Wed 16 March Baptism in the Spirit (Fr Gerry Campbell)
Wed 23 March Growth (Fr Peter Okpetu)
Wed 30 March Transformation in Christ (Bishop Michael Router)
Wed 6 April Summary (Bernie Fox)
Wed 27 April Mass of Thanksgiving (Fr Peter McAnenly)
People may join in person or via St Malachy’s Church Webcam (https://armaghparish.net/st-malachys-church-webcam/) , to help deepen their faith and to grow in knowledge and love of God.
Archbishop Eamon Martin and Bishop Michael Router invite you during February to take part in the consultation for the Universal Synod of the Church. Your response, and the responses of various groups and organisations, across the archdiocese, will be very helpful and will contribute greatly to a listening process that is taking place around the world.
To help you take part in the process the Synodal Core Group in the Archdiocese of Armagh has organised a virtual consultation that will broadcast twice a day 3pm and 8.30pm, Monday to Friday, from the 7th February to the 25th February on the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Webcam. The presentation lasts 45 minutes and it can be accessed through the Armagh Parish Website at www.armaghparish.net/cathedral-webcam, on YouTube at www.youtube.com/watch/S3scX2xCX0Y or on the www.armaghprays.com website.
Thinking About Priesthood?
On Tuesday 1st March @ 8pm there will be an opportunity for young men to join in on a Zoom to find out more about priesthood and to hear directly from two young men who are currently studying for the priesthood in our National Seminary in Maynooth.
The event is being run by the National Vocations Office. Further information and registration details can be obtained by emailing info@vocations.ie alternatively by visiting vocations.ie/zoom
“How many sick and elderly people are living at home and waiting for a visit?’ – Pope Francis
Bishop Michael Router welcomes World Day of the Sick Message by Pope Francis
As chair of the Council for Healthcare of the Irish Episcopal Conference, I welcome Pope Francis message for the World Day of the Sick, which is celebrated on 11 February, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the institution of World Day of the Sick by Pope Saint John Paul II: a day that encourages everyone to be attentive to those who are suffering and to support those who care for them. Since its institution, much progress has been made medically and scientifically. Yet, we are reminded by Pope Francis that we still have much to do to ensure that those who are poor or marginalised receive the health care and pastoral care that they need.
The theme for this year’s World Day of the Sick is “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful”. Pope Francis tells us that “Mercy is God’s name par excellence”. It is not something fleeting or sentimental but ever-present and active, combining strength and tenderness. In the Gospels we see Jesus displaying great concern and mercy for the sick. He made proclaiming the Gospel and healing the sick central to the mission of his disciples. People who are sick or in pain are isolated from others and that is why Jesus made healing and pastoral outreach to the sick such an important part of the Christian life.
Pope Francis says that Jesus’ invitation to be merciful like the Father has particular implications for healthcare workers. Their service to the sick goes beyond purely professional competence. It becomes a mission assigning their work a special dignity. He encourages healthcare workers to see the person beyond the disease and to listen to them because “even when healing is not possible, care can always be given”.
The instruction of Jesus to his disciples to heal the sick has led the Christian community to establish many hospitals, dispensaries and care homes, where treatment and pastoral care can be given to those who are sick, particularly the poor and the socially excluded. These have been the means by which Christian charity has become visible and credible. In this context Pope Francis reaffirms the importance of Catholic Healthcare institutions. He outlines that “they are a precious treasure to be protected and preserved; their presence has distinguished the history of the Church, showing her closeness to the sick and the poor, and to situations overlooked by others”. Francis also adds that even in developed countries the presence of Catholic Healthcare facilities is a blessing because they offer the gift of charity, focus on the sick and their families, and protect and care for all life from its beginning to its natural end.
Pope Francis reminds us that the pastoral care of the sick is not just the task of a few designated ministers but the task of every baptised person. He finishes his message by entrusting all the sick and their families to the intercession of Mary, Health of the Infirm, and by offering his prayer for healthcare workers everywhere.
You can read the full message from the Holy Father here:
https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/sick/documents/20211210_30-giornata-malato.html
(Image via Vatican News)
Young adults are invited to ‘Journey with Benedict’ during a day retreat (Saturday 19th February 2022) or a weekend residential (Friday 18th to Sunday 20th February 2022) at Glenstal Abbey. Join us for talks, workshops and plenty of time for prayer and reflection. This is also a great opportunity to meet other young adults and to visit the famous Icon Chapel and Gardens at Glenstal Abbey.
More details here: https://glenstal.com/abbey/events/
Cardinal Ó Fiaich Library & Archive
Free online lecture series from the Cardinal Ó Fiaich Library & Archive. The Church and Partition, the experience of northern Catholicism in 1921. Begins Wednesday 2 February, pre-booking essential. For details contact the library 02837522981 or eolas@ofiaich.ie.
Independent Review of Education
The Department of Education (NI) set up an Independent Review of Education in October 2021. The review panel are now seeking the views of the whole community on the strengths and weaknesses of our current system and on our future priorities for education. This is an important juncture in the future development of our education system and, as the trustees of Catholic schools, we would encourage school communities and parishioners to contribute to this review.
The consultation can be found at: https://www.independentreviewofeducation.org.uk/your-views
RECORDINGS OF FUNERAL MASSES
These past few months, we’ve endeavoured to record funeral Masses in our church. This was to help provide a recording for families, if they wished to have one, especially for those who may not have been able to join with us on the day.
Please note that, due to technical issues with our webcam, we have not been able to record every funeral Mass.
If an immediate family member would like to collect a recording of their loved one’s funeral Mass, please contact the parish office by the end of February. If the recording is available, it will be given to you on a memory stick. After this date, recordings will be deleted.
Sunday of the Word of God
As we celebrate Sunday of the Word of God today, why not let this be the Sunday when we begin to take a few minutes each week to reflect on the Word of God and what it might be saying to us in our daily lives?
This short guide might help us walk through reflecting on the Word of God.
Why not give it a go?
(Source: https://catholic.bible/lectio-divina-in-english/)
Warning about scam messages targeting older people
Police are urging members of the public to talk to older family members following a rise in phishing text, phone call and WhatsApp messages.
The scams involve usually a WhatsApp message, but sometimes a text or phone call, from a person claiming to be a family member, and have the common aim of encouraging the recipient to transfer money.
The renewed warning comes after numerous new reports received from victims across all districts in Northern Ireland. While anyone can fall victim to scams, police are seeing this type of scam targeting older people in particular.
Superintendent Gerard Pollock, Chair of the ScamwiseNI Partnership, said: “We are noticing more and more reports in recent months of this type of scam from individuals across Northern Ireland.
“In each case, a person purporting to be a family member, often a daughter or son, asks for money. Typically, the ‘child’ is short of money or late paying bills, and asks the recipient to transfer money into an account. This is backed by a story that he or she has recently changed their phone or phone number.
“It’s a despicable act, which takes advantage of a person’s willingness to help out loved ones who are perhaps away from home.
“In some of these cases, the victim has been careful enough to check with the relative and therefore realise it’s a scam before departing with any money. Sadly, however, this isn’t always the case. Just last week, one victim lost £6,000 after receiving one of these messages.
“It’s really important that if you have older members of your family, talk with them and warn them about this particular type of scam. This is a really important conversation to have.”
Superintendent Pollock continued: “Fraudsters will try anything to trick people. Scams may come in all shapes and sizes, but they have one thing in common – scammers rely upon the good faith and vulnerability of those they target. Hard-earned savings can easily be gone in a flash and, with it, one’s confidence.
“Please don’t get caught out. If you get a message make contact with your son or daughter on their usual number. Don’t get into a text or WhatsApp conversation with the scammers. Spot it. Stop it.”
For further advice and information visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/scamwiseni or the ScamwiseNI Facebook page @scamwiseni. If you have any concerns about unsolicited calls, emails or letters then please report it to Action Fraud via their website – www.actionfraud.police.uk –
or by phoning 0300 123 2040. You can also call police on the non-emergency number 101.
Drumalis Course on Spiritual Challenges in Later Life
(via Zoom)
Five-part series by Zoom with Sr Úna Agnew SSL PhD over five successive Tuesdays from 11:00 am – 12:15 pm (25 January, 1, 8, 15 & 22 February 2022).
Spiritual well-being in later life is a potential that needs to be explored even as it is happening within us and among us. Later life is a time to make the transition from active living to active being. It is a transition into soul time and an opportunity to harvest life’s riches. Longevity is a gift that demands a new level of consciousness. The soul’s song gains momentum as we celebrate each stage of life and take hold of the opportunities that this ‘extra time’ offers. We explore together this rich season of grace that we call ageing.
Notes at the end of each session will be emailed to participants. The suggested donation to attend this five-part series is £50 per person. If you would like to book a place, please email drumalis@btconnect.com or tel 028 28272196/ 28276455 (Mon-Fri, 9 am-5 pm).
Matt Talbot Prayer Society
Novena to St Patrick
“From the time I came to know Him in my youth, the love of God and the fear of Him have grown in me, and up to now, thanks be to the grace of God, I have kept the faith”. St Patrick
A nine week novena in honour of St Patrick will take place on Wednesday evenings in the coming weeks, to pray for the renewal of faith in Ireland at this time.
The Novena begins on Wednesday 19 January at 7pm in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh with Adoration and Rosary and Mass which will be celebrated by Archbishop Eamon Martin.
Following Armagh, the Novena will take place on the following Wednesdays in different Churches in Ireland associated with St Patrick and Shalom World Prayer will broadcast the Novena each Wednesday evening at 7pm until 16th March at www.swprayer.org.
People can also join for the opening night of the Novena via St Patrick’s Cathedral Webcam.
Weekend of Prayer for Vocations to Priesthood
25-27th March 2022
A special weekend of Prayer for Vocations to Priesthood will take place in the Archdiocese of Armagh on the weekend of Friday 25 – Sunday 27 March. As we celebrate Mary saying “Yes” to be the Mother of God on the Feast of the Annunciation, we pray that more men will say “Yes” and give of their lives for service as priests in our diocese.
Prayer for Vocations
O Jesus, send labourers into your fields, which are awaiting holy apostles, saintly priests, heroic missionaries and dedicated sisters and brothers. Enkindle in the hearts of men and women the spark of a vocation. Grant that Christian families may desire to give your Church, helpers in the work of tomorrow. Amen.
Blessing of Homes at Epiphany (January 6th)
There is a custom of blessing homes on the Feast of the Epiphany (6 January) when the family gather to ask God’s blessing on their home and family life. It is an invitation for Jesus to be a daily guest in our homes.
Instructions for Blessing the Home:
Using chalk mark the lintel of your front door as follows:
20 + C + M + B + 22
saying:
‘The three Wise Men, Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar followed the star of God’s Son who became human two thousand and twenty one years ago.
May Christ bless our home and remain with us throughout the new year.
Amen.’
Then say the following prayer:
Visit, O Blessed Lord, this home with the gladness of your presence.
Bless all who live or visit here with the gift of your love; and grant that we may manifest your love to each other and to all whose lives we touch.
May we grow in grace and in the knowledge and love of you;
guide, comfort, and strengthen us in peace,
O Jesus Christ, now and for ever.
Amen.
What does the inscription ‘20 + C + M + B + 22′ mean?
The letters have two meanings. First, they represent the initials of the Magi – Caspar, Malchior, and Balthazar – who came to visit Jesus in His first home. They also abbreviate the Latin phrase, Christus mansionem benedicat: “May Christ bless the house.”
The “+” signs represent the cross, and the “20” at the beginning and the “22” at the end mark the current year.
Taken together, this inscription is performed as a request for Christ to bless those homes so marked and that He stay with those who dwell therein throughout the entire year.
This new year, perhaps more than ever, is a year in which we need to invite Jesus into our homes, our Domestic Churches.
(Source: Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference)
THE EPIPHANY PROCLAMATION – 2022
The proclamation of the date of Easter and the other moveable feasts on Epiphany dates from a time when calendars were not readily available. It was necessary to make known the date of Easter in advance, since many celebrations of the liturgical year depend on its date. The number of Sundays that follow Epiphany, the date of Ash Wednesday, and the number of Sundays that follow Pentecost are all computed in relation to Easter.
Although calendars now give the date of Easter and the other feasts in the liturgical year for many years in advance, the Epiphany proclamation still has value. It is a reminder of the centrality of the resurrection of the Lord in the liturgical year and the importance of the great mysteries of faith which are celebrated each year.
(Source: USCCB)
Invitation to Contribute to Synod 2021-2023
Pope’s Prayer Intentions – 2022
Each month, the Holy Father invites us to join with him in praying for specific prayer intentions.
Maybe you could add these to your Rosary or other prayers once a month this coming year?
You can download them here:
ENG-HOLY-FATHERS-PRAYER-INTENTIONS-2022
Catholic Bishops of Northern Ireland disappointed by rejection of Severe Fetal Impairment Abortion Amendment Bill NI
The Northern Bishops have issued a statement regarding the recent NI Assembly vote on the Severe Fetal Impairment Abortion (Amendment Bill) NI.
You can read the full statement here:
https://www.catholicbishops.ie/catholicnews-ie/?ID=3
On this feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary & Joseph (December 26th)
Wishing all of our parishioners and friends a very happy Christmas.
May the light of the new-born Saviour find a home in all our hearts.
Fr. Liam, Sr. Marie & Fr. Damien
A parish Penitential Service will take place, in preparation for Christmas, on Tuesday 21st @ 7.30pm. This will include an “Act of Perfect Contrition” for those who are shielding/isolating. Confessions will also be available after daily Masses, Monday – Friday of this week.
Why not pray this prayer as you hold the figure of the Baby Jesus from your crib? Then wrap the figure up, place it under the tree and let that gift be the first one you open on Christmas Day, remembering the true reason for the season!
Blessing of a Christmas Crib
Here’s a beautiful prayer to pray as you prepare your Christmas crib.
Missed any weeks of our beautiful Stations of Advent & Christmas?
Yo can now view and pray with them anytime via our parish YouTube page.
You’ll find them here each week as we post them:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYIA65a-rKKbAVvNOhs0hkg
CHRISTMAS MASSES THIS YEAR
Please see below for information on our Christmas Masses this year and how to apply for tickets.
Application can only be made as follows:
– by phone to the parish office – 02830252459
– by post / letterbox to the parish office
– by email to the parish office – assumptionnewry@gmail.com
All other details are given below.
With Pope Francis this month, let us pray for the catechists, summoned to announce the Word of God: may they be its witnesses, with courage and creativity and in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Advent Calendar 2021
(From the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference)
Now in its eighth year, our Digital Advent Calendar is offering resources for the parish, school and the home which are available behind a virtual door each day during the Season of Advent. Behind each door there will be content aimed at assisting people to pray and to reflect on how best we can keep Christ at the centre of our Christmas preparations during this special liturgical season.
The theme of the Advent Calendar this year is Hope. It has been a difficult year for so many people as we faced the ongoing consequences of a global pandemic. We are inviting people to journey with us this Advent Season by #SharingHope through acts of kindness and charity that all of us are encouraged to undertake during the month of December.
We hope you will join us again this year through the Season of Advent.
You can access the calendar here:
https://www.catholicbishops.ie/adventcalendar/
9 Day Rosary Novena For Ireland
You are invited to join in a 9 DAY ROSARY NOVENA FOR IRELAND to pray for the people of Ireland during these difficult times. The invitation is to pray the Rosary at 9 pm each evening from Tuesday, November 30th, to Wednesday, December 8th, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
Radio Maria will be hosting the praying of the Rosary and Archbishop Eamon will lead the final Rosary live on Radio Maria on December 8th at 9pm.
Sharing the Good News – Issue 70 November 2021
The November issue features the following articles:
· Archbishop Eamon Martin’s homily from the Mass of Remembrance in Knock Shrine
· Pope Francis’ appointment of Bishop Francis Duffy as Archbishop of Tuam
· Trócaire’s launch of their life-saving Gifts of Love for Christmas 2021
· Archbishop Dermot Farrell’s homily at opening of the Academic Year at DCU
· Dr Nicola Brady recognised by the Irish Council of Churches and by the Irish Inter- Church Meeting
· Deadline extended for the first phase of the synodal process
· Bishop Martin Hayes’ attendance at COP26 climate summit
· Bishops’ online interactive calendar going live on Sunday 28 November
You can download the issue here as a PDF:
Sharing the Good News November 2021
From Our Colleagues in the Southern Trust
We are delighted to update that to mark their first birthday – the Southern Trust’s ‘Phone First’ service has extended its hours to 9pm, Monday to Friday.
The ‘Phone First’ approach aims to help those patients with urgent but not life threatening symptoms to get the most appropriate care as quickly as possible and avoid busy waiting rooms.
Before attending the Emergency Department or Minor Injuries service you should phone 0300 123 3 111 between the hours of 9am – 9pm Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays).
Since they started last year, the team have taken 36,698 calls for help, less than a quarter of these patients actually needed to attend the ED and just under half of all callers were given a scheduled appointment for their local minor injuries service.
When you ring the number, a call handler takes your details. A Senior Nurse, Physiotherapist or GP will call you back and advise on the most suitable care. For some patients, they will advise how to self-manage symptoms or direct them to the community pharmacist. Those who need urgent assessment or treatment may receive an appointment with a physiotherapist, an urgent care GP or local minor injuries service. Anyone who does need to attend the Emergency Department will be given a referral code.
EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT
As in previous years Exposition will take place in our church next weekend, to mark the Solemnity of Christ the King. Times of Exposition are:
- Saturday 20th, 11am – 6pm & 7pm – 10pm, concluding with Night Prayer at 9.45pm
- Sunday 21st, from 3pm, concluding with Evening Prayer & Benediction at 7pm
November Plenary Indulgence for the Dead
A plenary indulgence (applicable only to the Dead) can be gained, by all who have confessed, received Communion and prayed for the Pope’s intentions (Our Father & Hail Mary or prayer of choice), by visiting a church on any day in the month of November, & reciting the Our Father & the Creed. (This can only be gained once.) The same indulgence can be gained each day during the entire month of November, by visiting a cemetery & praying for the dead. (This can be gained once per day)
You can read the Pope’s message here:
From the Pope
Alcohol Awareness Week 16 – 22nd November 2021
Al-Anon offering Family support for those affected by alcoholism
Local people, from all backgrounds are being urged to think about their drinking as we approach Alcohol Awareness Week 16 – 22 November.
Al-Anon wishes to remind the community that help is available for anyone who needs it.
In Northern Ireland there are 48 Al-Anon groups, and more than 700 Al-Anon Family Groups throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland. They provide support to anyone whose life is, or has been affected by someone else drinking.
Anything discussed within an Al-Anon meeting is treated as confidential, including your presence at the meeting.
There are no fees for membership or attending meetings as Al-Anon is funded solely through members own voluntary donations and a collection will normally be held at each meeting.
Meetings usually last an hour and a half.
“You don’t need to speak at a meeting unless you are comfortable doing so” said a spokesperson. “You can sit and listen.”
All meetings are listed on the website www.al-anonuk.org.uk, or you can call our Confidential Helpline on 02890682368 10am – 1pm or 6pm – 10pm.
Week of Witness Sunday 21 Nov – Saturday 27 November 2021
Week of Witness will take place from Sunday 21 Nov – Saturday 27 November 2021. During the week, we will remember all who have given great witness to their faith in the past and those who continue to give witness today and all who will continue to give great witness in the future.
On Wednesday 24th November (Red Wednesday) Archbishop Eamon will celebrate a special Liturgy in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh, at 7.30pm. As part of the Liturgy, the Archbishop will speak with two young people who give great witness to their faith today.
People are invited to wear something red on the evening as we remember all who have given and all who continue to give great witness to their faith today.
After the Liturgy, Archbishop Eamon will launch a new book in The Synod Hall titled “In His Master’s Footsteps – The Way of the Cross in the company of St Oliver Plunkett, Archbishop and Martyr” edited by Canon Benedict Fee. All are welcome to join on the evening.
PARISH ACCOUNTS 2021
The full financial accounts for the year ended March 2021 are now available to view in the parish office. Parishioners are welcome to call in person and review them.
A sincere word of thanks for the ongoing support of our parish.
Update About Parish Rosary Broadcast
Our Rosary is currently broadcast live from our Church, Mon. – Fri. 7pm.
From Monday 15th November, the Rosary prayed before the 10.30am Mass will be recorded & left on the “Recordings” section of our webcam for parishioners to access at a time of their own choosing and the 7pm live broadcast Rosary will be suspended for the winter months.
You will be able to view the Rosary recordings here:
http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
Pope’s Prayer Intention – November 2021
Extreme exhaustion, depression, and anxiety are some of the most common illnesses in today’s world. Often, “sadness, apathy, and spiritual tiredness end up dominating people’s lives, which are overloaded due to the rhythm of life today.” What can we do to help people suffering from these situations? Be at their side, accompany them, and remind them that “together with the indispensable guidance of a psychologist, which is useful and effective, Jesus’ words also help.” Watch the Pope Video for this month, and if you know someone who is suffering from one of these situations, share Francis’ words with them.
“Overwork and work-related stress cause many people to experience extreme exhaustion—mental, emotional, affective, and physical exhaustion.
And of course, as a result, sadness, apathy, and spiritual tiredness end up dominating people’s lives, which are overloaded due to the rhythm of life today.
Let us strive to be close to those who are exhausted, to those who are desperate, without hope. Often, we should simply listen in silence because we cannot go tell someone, ‘No, life’s not like that. Listen to me, I’ll give you the instructions.’ There are no instructions.
And besides, let us not forget that, together with the indispensable guidance of a psychologist, which is useful and effective, Jesus’ words also help. These words come to my mind and heart: ‘Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’
Let us pray that pray that people who suffer from depression or burn-out will find support and a light that opens them up to life.”
Change to Social Distancing in Our Church
This weekend (13th / 14th November) we will be revising our social distancing and opening every other seat (currently every third seat is open). This will help increase capacity in our church while other mitigations remain in place.
The 2 metre rule will remain with regard to those who can be accommodated in a particular seat. Please continue to keep 2 metres away from those not in the same household as you.
Parishioners are asked to continue to observe appropriate distancing while approaching/returning from Communion.
Parishioners are asked to continue to wear their masks/coverings throughout our Masses/liturgies.
ANNUAL MASS FOR THE DECEASED
Due to the likelihood that we would be unable to accommodate those who may wish to be present in a safe environment, the annual Mass for the Deceased will take place “behind closed doors” on Wed. 24th November at 7.30pm.
Anyone wishing to place the name of their loved one(s) on a candle should leave the name(s) in the Parish Office, via email (assumptionnewry@gmail.com) or via phone (028 30252459) before Monday 22nd November. The candles lit before the Mass will be available for collection from the Parish Office from Fri. 26th November.
This weekend, we will be holding an emergency collection to help support Trócaire in its work to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in East Africa.
The Irish Catholic Bishops noted with deep concern the increase in the number of people in East Africa who are threatened by Covid-19, conflict and climate change.
The emergency appeal calls for support for the people in Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan and South Kordofan where up to 30 million people are currently facing life-threatening food shortages.
We pray for the emergency appeal with Psalm 146, “The LORD keeps faith forever, secures justice for the oppressed, gives food to the hungry.”
Pathways – Adult Faith Development Programme
Two-year, part-time course, now enrolling for 2021-2023 intake.
Have you ever thought about exploring your faith… or wished that you could broaden your understanding of your faith? Would you like to explore, discuss and reflect upon issues and questions of faith, the Church, and how to link faith to life?
If the answer is “yes”, then Pathways may be for you. The course runs one Saturday per month (10 am – 4:30 pm) from October to June, either in-house at Drumalis, Larne or online via Zoom.
A Prayer by Telephone
The Sisters of Mercy “Bethany” 34 Point Road, Dundalk welcome any person who may wish to request prayer, especially during these difficult times. All requests are confidential. One of the sisters will be happy to LISTEN & PRAY with you, 9am -9pm daily.
ROI 042-9331602 NI 00353 42-9331602
Mass of Remembrance – Knock Shrine – 14th November
The Covid-19 pandemic has been a particularly difficult time for those who have lost loved ones and have often had to cope with their grief without many of the usual spiritual and community supports.
To pastorally support everyone who has suffered the pain of bereavement during the pandemic, and in the context of the month of November as the traditional time when we remember our dead, on next Sunday, 14 November at 3.00pm, the Bishops of Ireland will undertake a pilgrimage to the International Eucharistic and Marian Shrine in Knock. The bishops will concelebrate Mass for all those who have died in our country during the pandemic, and for their families. At the Mass the bishops will also offer prayers of thanksgiving for all those who so selflessly sacrificed so much during the pandemic. This Mass will be live-streamed on www.knockshrine.ie and broadcast on the RTÉ News Now digital television channel and online.
The bishops invite everyone to join with them in prayer on this solemn occasion.
31st October 1954 – The Dedication of Our Parish Church
Today we celebrate the 67th anniversary of the dedication our parish church – 31st October 1954.
Here’s an extract from a contemporary journal recording some of the elements of that special day 67 years ago.
O God, who year by year renew for us the day
when this your holy temple was consecrated,
hear the prayers of your people
and grant that in this place
for you there may always be pure worship
and for us, fullness of redemption.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
Two Vacancies for Youth Ministry Coordinators
The Archdiocese of Armagh seeks to appoint two motivated and talented professionals, each to undertake the full-time roles of Youth Ministry Coordinator. The Youth Ministry Coordinators will work with the Diocesan Pastoral Team and be responsible for implementing the youth ministry element in the Diocesan Pastoral Plan. They will work with parishes and pastoral areas to meet the goals of the Armagh Diocesan Youth Commission’s (ADYC) Strategic Plan 2019-2024 ‘Encourage, Enable and Empower.’
More details here:
Mass for the Sick
Sharing the Good News – October 2021
The October issue features the following articles:
– Rebrand of Pope’s charity as ‘Missio Ireland’ ahead of World Mission Sunday
– Bishops call for climate action and support for the ‘Healthy Planet, Healthy People’ petition ahead of COP15 and COP26
– Special parish collection in November to support Trócaire in alleviating the humanitarian crisis in East Africa
– Nine new seminarians brings to 64 the number currently studying for the priesthood
– It would be a mistake to think that most parents are less interested in a school with a Catholic ethos….. – Archbishop Dermot Farrell
– Bishops to undertake pilgrimage to Knock to offer Mass in memory of all who died during pandemic
– Pope John Paul I on the road to sainthood
– Update on Synodal Pathway in Ireland and the Universal Synod on Synodality
– Archbishop Eamon Martin calls for prayers for the Church ‘Service of Reflection and Hope’ in Armagh
You can download the issue in PDF here:
https://www.catholicbishops.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Sharing-the-Good-News-October-2021.pdf
Service of Reflection and Hope
Archbishop Eamon Martin and the other Church leaders in Ireland invite all people of goodwill to join them in prayer during the Service of Reflection and Hope which will be broadcast live from St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral, Armagh, on RTE and BBC television networks on Thursday, 21 October 2021 at 11 a.m.
The Church leaders see this service as a moment in a much longer journey towards reconciliation which will require the prayerful support and engagement of Christians across these islands.
Please pray with us this prayer for peace in the coming days:
CENTENARY PRAYER
‘So then let us pursue the things that make for peace and the building up of one another’ Romans 14:19.
Sovereign, wise and gracious God, in whose hands lie the past, present and future, we acknowledge before you our failures, our divisions, and the hurt we have caused you and one another. Forgive, restore and heal us. The events of partition and formation, which took place one hundred years ago on this island, changed, shaped and determined the outlook for this place which we all call home. As we reflect upon those times and bring to mind what happened then and in the years since, we acknowledge before you our different and often polarised interpretations of history. As we travel onwards in our journey, may we learn from the experiences of the past and from those who trod these roads before us, so that the inheritance we pass on to the next generation is the gift of understanding, peace and hope. In faith we pray, and humbly ask, in the name of him who is the light of the world and giver of all hope, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Statement of the Autumn 2021 General Meeting of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference
Members of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference gathered in-person this week in Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth, for their Autumn 2021 General Meeting. Due to public health restrictions arising from the Covid-19 pandemic, the Bishops’ Conference had hosted its previous five plenary meetings via video link. The President of the Conference is Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh and the Vice-President is Archbishop Dermot Farrell of Dublin. The main issues discussed by the bishops during their Autumn General Meeting included:
– Bishops’ pilgrimage to Knock and Mass in memory of all who died on the island during the Covid 19 pandemic
– Housing and homelessness
– Bishops call for climate action and support for the ‘Healthy Planet, Healthy People’ petition ahead of COP15 and COP26
– (i) Pope Francis to open Universal Synod on 9 and 10 October
– (ii) Update on the Synodal Pathway in Ireland
– Bishops call for funding for Family Addiction Support Networks
– RTÉ to broadcast Mass for World Mission Sunday on 24 October
– Bishops special appeal on 6 and 7 November to support Trócaire’s work to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in East Africa
– Appointments
Bishops’ pilgrimage to Knock and Mass in memory of all who died on the island during the Covid-19 pandemic
During their meeting bishops reflected on the heartbreak suffered many thousands of families throughout Ireland who experienced the death of a loved one during the Covid-19 pandemic. In particular, bishops acknowledged the additional distress caused by the restrictions which, over the past nineteen months, limited the number of people who could mourn together and offer the customary supports at this most sensitive time for families. Bishops commended parishes across Ireland who have been arranging liturgical ceremonies for grieving families, and thereby enabling us to gather as a community of faith to pray for the repose of the souls of our deceased.
To pastorally support everyone who has suffered in this way, and in the context of November being the traditional time that we remember our dead, on Sunday 14 November at 3.00pm, the Bishops of Ireland will undertake a pilgrimage to the International Eucharistic and Marian Shrine in Knock, Co Mayo, in the Archdiocese of Tuam, to concelebrate Mass for all those who have died on the island, and for their families, during the pandemic. At the Mass bishops will offer prayers of thanksgiving for all those who so selflessly sacrificed so much during the pandemic. This Mass will be live-streamed on www.knockshrine.ie and broadcast on the RTÉ News Now digital television channel and online.
Bishops expressed their gratitude to the faithful for their prayers, sacrifice and perseverance during this difficult period for all of society. This commitment, along with the sterling efforts of our clergy, religious and frontline workers, has successfully served to protect human life and health.
Housing and homelessness
Bishops reflected on how the crisis of housing and homelessness is a key social justice challenge for this generation. Catholic social teaching recognises that housing is a universal human right, with corresponding responsibilities on society to honour that right. Bishops discussed the recent correspondence from Mr Darragh O’Brien TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, on this issue. It is the bishops’ intention to respond to the Minister’s letter over the coming days.
Bishops call for climate action and support for the ‘Healthy Planet, Healthy People’ petition ahead of COP15 and COP26
Bishops encourage the public to support a global campaign ‘Healthy Planet, Healthy People’, which seeks to encourage political leaders to take strong action on climate change at COP 15 on Biodiversity from 11 – 24 October and at COP26 on Climate Change in Glasgow from 31 October to 12 November. The ‘Healthy Planet, Healthy People’ petition, which has been endorsed by the Vatican, calls for a joined up, just response to the COVID 19, climate and biodiversity crises, see www.healthyplanetandpeople.org. Guidelines for completion of the petition are available by contacting Brenda Drumm on bdrumm@catholicbishops.ie or jane.mellett@trocaire.org
(i) Pope Francis to open Universal Synod on 9 and 10 October (ii) Update on the Synodal Pathway in Ireland
During their 2020 Winter General Meeting, bishops decided to proceed along a Synodal Pathway and, following their Spring General Meeting, announced that a new Synodal Pathway for the Catholic Church in Ireland is to take place with a view to holding a national synodal assembly, or assemblies, within the next five years. Over 550 submissions have been received from the public as part of the initial phase of the Synodal Pathway. Dr Nicola Brady has been appointed as chair of the Synodal Steering Committee and the vice-chairs are Mr Andrew O’Callaghan and Bishop Brendan Leahy of Limerick.
By a happy coincidence, these first two years of the Synodal Pathway in Ireland will complement the Church’s worldwide journey towards the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of Bishops, entitled: For a synodal Church: communion, participation and mission. This weekend (9 and 10 October), Pope Francis will officially open the Universal Synod. The Holy Father has asked that the whole Church prepare for this Synod which is scheduled to take place in October 2023 in Rome.
In this regard, bishops welcomed the publication on 7 September, by the General Secretariat for the Synod in Rome, of the Preparatory Document which indicates the guiding principles of the Synod on Synodality. Bishops agreed that, as the Church in Ireland embarks on its own Synodal Pathway, we can also look forward to letting ourselves be inspired by these guiding principles.
Bishops discussed this Preparatory Document, sharing in the goal of its listening process, namely, “not to produce documents, but to plant dreams, prophecies, and hopes.” For the initial preparatory phase of the Universal Synod, the fundamental questions put before us are:
how does this ‘journeying together’ take place today on different levels (from the local level to the universal one), allowing the Church to proclaim the Gospel? and,
what steps is the Spirit inviting us to take in order to grow as a synodal Church?
These global questions neatly complement the guiding question facing the Irish Synodal Pathway over the next five years, which is: “What does God want from the Church in Ireland at this time?”
The full membership of the Steering Committee and the Synodal Task Group for the Synodal Pathway will be published as part of the official launch in the coming weeks.
Bishops call for funding for Family Addiction Support Networks
Bishop Michael Router, liaison bishop with the Irish Bishops’ Drugs Initiative, updated the Bishops’ Conference on his recent meeting with the Minister of State at the Department of Health, Mr Frank Feighan TD. Conference was advised that a commitment was sought from the Minister to end delays in funding to the regional Family Addiction Support Networks. FASN provides counselling, respite, education and an intimidation reporting service for families of addicts. In last year’s State budget €70,000 was promised to each of the regions for FASN, however, to date, this money has not been received by the organisation on the ground. The Minister has confirmed that the money has now been released to the Health Service Executive and that FASN were invited to apply for a share. Bishop Router will hold a further meeting in the coming weeks with Minister Feighan to seek to copper-fasten future funding for FASN in order “to help tackle the silent pandemic in Ireland that is drug abuse.”
Bishops called for appropriate funding for the Family Addiction Support Network and agreed to raise awareness about the devastating problems caused to individuals and families by all types of substance abuse as part of next year’s ‘Day of Prayer for Temperance’ on Sunday, 27 February 2022.
RTÉ to broadcast Mass for World Mission Sunday on 24 October
As October is mission month, bishops remembered in prayer the work of our missionaries throughout the world. The official launch of the new name for the World Missions Ireland charity, Missio Ireland – which is Pope Francis’ official charity for overseas mission in Ireland – will take place at the Veritas Offices, Dublin, on 18 October next.
The theme for World Mission Sunday 2021 on 24 October is: ‘We Cannot Remain Silent – We cannot but speak about what we have seen and heard (Acts 4:20).’ On World Mission Sunday collections will take place at Masses throughout the Universal Church so that Catholics might give what they can to help support struggling dioceses in the developing world. The Mission Sunday collection promotes the work of missionaries in poor and remote communities. The funds raised will help build vital infrastructure, including churches, medical clinics, nurseries and schools.
Bishops commended Missio Ireland for its mission month pack for parishes and congregations and on its new website for donors and supporters. Father Michael O’Sullivan, M.Afr was thanked for his contribution to the National Mission Council as he shortly will leave his role of National Director of Missio Ireland. RTÉ will televise the celebration of Mass from its Donnybrook studios in Dublin at 11.00am for World Mission Sunday on 24 October, as well as broadcast on LW 252 and on RTÉ Radio 1 Extra. The celebrant will be Spiritan Missionary Father Brendan Carr and the Mass will bring together those involved in the overseas missionary outreach in the Catholic Church in Ireland: Misean Cara, the Association of Leaders of Missionaries and Religious of Ireland, and Missio Ireland.
Bishops special appeal on 6 and 7 November to support Trócaire’s work to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in East Africa
Bishops noted with deep concern the increase in the number of people worldwide threatened by humanitarian crises, which are driven by the triple threat of the Covid-19 pandemic, conflict and climate change. Bishops expressed particular support for the people of East Africa, where up to 30 million people in Somalia, Ethiopia, Sudan, South Sudan, Kenya, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are currently face life-threatening food shortages. Trócaire, as the overseas development agency of the Bishops’ Conference, is currently addressing this and many other crises worldwide. Bishops will ask parishes throughout Ireland to undertake a special Church collection on 6 and 7 November to invite the public to support Trócaire in its work to alleviate this humanitarian crisis in East Africa.
Bishops also discussed that in the countries where Trócaire works, less than 5% of the population have been vaccinated for Covid and infection rates are up to 50%. An additional 200 million people have fallen into poverty globally as a result of the Covid crisis. Bishops highlighted that wealthier countries, while protecting their most vulnerable citizens, also have a moral responsibility to ensure that the populations of developing countries have equal, rapid and effective access to Covid vaccine coverage.
Appointments
Bishops welcomed the newest member of the Bishops’ Conference, Bishop Ger Nash, following his appointment by Pope Francis on 11 June as Bishop of Ferns. Bishops offered prayers for Bishop Denis Brennan, Bishop Emeritus of Ferns, so that he may enjoy a healthy and peaceful retirement.
Bishops also welcomed the appointments of Dr Alexander O’Hara as the new National Director for Catechetics, and of Father Paul Clayton-Lea as the new editor of Intercom magazine, the pastoral and liturgical resource of the Bishops’ Conference for people in ministry. Bishops thanked the outgoing editor Father John Cullen for this work and especially for maintaining the publication of Intercom during the pandemic.
Prisons Week – A Week of Prayer
Mass for the Sick
Our most recent Mass for the Sick, celebrated in the chapel in Daisy Hill Hospital.
Pope’s October Prayer Intention
DAY FOR LIFE 2021
This year’s Day for Life is celebrated today, Sunday 3 October on the theme ‘The Good Samaritan: A Model of Compassion’.
In the context of the recent proposal to introduce assisted suicide, both in Ireland and the UK, this year’s Day for Life message invites Catholics to consider a more positive and compassionate response to the care of people who are in the final stages of life.
You can download this year’s message from www.councilforlife.ie .
The Diaconate in our Diocese
What is the diaconate in our diocese? What do deacons do?
Here’s a new video to help answer your questions:
Sharing the Good News – Issue 68 September 2021
You can download the issue here:
SHARING THE GOOD NEWS SEPTEMBEr 2021
Coastal Rosary Ireland
On Sunday October 10th, the Coastal Rosary will take place at 2.30pm. Join people from around Ireland to pray the Rosary for Life and Faith at our grottos, churches, at the coasts and other suitable places. We encourage you to gather safely being mindful of COVID 19 regulations.
Simply sign up a Rosary location at www. coastalrosaryireland.ie or text your location to 00353 87 278 6552.
Triduum of Prayer to St Joseph
To mark the 150th anniversary of the declaration of St Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church, Pope Francis has proclaimed this year as a Year of St Joseph. A special Triduum of Prayer to St Joseph will be celebrated in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh from Tuesday 12 – Thursday 14 October. Mass on each of the days will be celebrated at 8am, 10am and 7.30pm. Let us ask St Joseph to intercede for us and our families.
Tuesday 12 October
7.30pm Mass: Celebrant: Archbishop Eamon Martin
St Joseph, a family man and protector of all families, a man who models for us the family’s call to holiness.
We invite families to join on this day, to ask St Joseph to intercede for all our homes and families.
Wednesday 13 October
7.30pm Mass: Celebrant: Bishop Michael Router
St Joseph, a worker and the patron of all craftspeople and workers. He laboured for God and we too are called to labour in love.
We invite all workers and especially craftspeople to join on this day for a special blessing of our hands.
Thursday 14 October
7.30pm Mass: Celebrant: Monsignor Colum Curry
St Joseph, the dreamer, an example for everyone and especially our young whom Jesus teaches never to lose the ability to dream, to take risks and to take on difficult tasks.
We invite all who have dreams to join and especially young people and expectant mothers who have dreams for their child and their children.
Church leaders promote service of reflection and hope
- Christian commitment to peace, healing and reconciliation underpins Service of Reflection and Hope to mark the partition of Ireland and the formation of Northern Ireland
A Service of Reflection and Hope to mark the centenaries of the partition of Ireland and the formation of Northern Ireland will take place in Saint Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral, Armagh, on Thursday, 21 October 2021.
The service is being organised by the Church Leaders Group, as part of their wider programme of collective engagement around the 1921 centenaries, with an emphasis on their common Christian commitment to peace, healing and reconciliation.
Armagh has been chosen as the location due to its significance as Ireland’s ecclesiastical capital – a status which has its origins in the 5th Century when the present site of the Church of Ireland cathedral was presented to Saint Patrick for building his ‘great stone church’.
In a joint statement issued on Saint Patrick’s Day the Church Leaders emphasised the need to ‘be intentional in creating spaces for encounter with those who are different from us, and those who may feel marginalised in the narratives that have shaped our community identity’ and, in doing so, ’to face difficult truths about failings in our own leadership in the work of peace and reconciliation’. This Christian act of worship will involve people from across the community, from diverse backgrounds and traditions, and with different beliefs and aspirations, coming together to pray for the healing of past hurts and to seek God’s guidance in a spirit of hope for the future. The ongoing risks of Covid-19 will restrict the space for in-person participation, but the service will be broadcast and local church communities will be invited to support the initiative in prayer.
At the heart of the Church Leaders’ joint engagements over the course of this year, in prayer, in dialogue and in collective outreach to the wider community, has been a focus on relationships. In their joint statement they say: ‘We find inspiration and encouragement in the progress that has been made through our peace process in building relations of mutual respect and trust across these islands. These relationships are often tested, and will at times be found wanting, but our communities have also demonstrated great resilience, solidarity and compassion, evident most recently in the response to Covid-19’.
This Service of Reflection and Hope is offered as a contribution to the work of building community and deepening relationships.
Mass for the Sick
Here is our latest Mass for the Sick, celebrated in the chapel in Daisy Hill Hospital. Please feel free to share with those who are sick at home, in hospital or in care.
Mount St. Anne’s Retreat and Conference Centre, Co. Laois – Autumn Courses Online
All Courses are at 19.00-21.00 (Irish Time) on ZOOM
To book a place please email ceo@mountstannes.com
Title: Laudato Si’ in our Contemporary World
October 6, 13, 20, 27 (Sean McDonagh)
This course will explore Laudato Si and the Challenges of Biodiversity and Climate Change.
€100 for full course
Women in the Bible: Our Mothers in Faith
October 7, 14, 21, 28 (Rosalie Moloney)
The diverse women of the Bible offer us inspiring examples of Faith in action. This course invites us to follow in the footsteps of some of these remarkable but very human characters: from Ruth and Naomi and the mothers of Genesis to the women of Jesus’ parables and the female leaders of the early Church.
€100 for full course
Celtic Spirituality: What is it? Has it any significance for life today?
November 3, 10, 17, 24 (Michael Drumm)
There is a lot of talk today about Celtic Spirituality. But the question arises – what exactly is it? Does such a spirituality exist? Is it anything more than romantic nostalgia for a dead past? Who were the Celts? Can we access their spiritual insights? During this course some characteristics of Celtic life will be identified which might legitimately form the foundations for a renewed Celtic spirituality today.
€100 for full course
Exploring the Synodal Pathway: The Ongoing Reception of Vatican II
November 4, 11, 18, 25 (Janet Forbes and Oonagh O’ Brien)
This course will explore the upcoming Synod as the continuation of the Second Vatican Council with a particular focus on the Spirituality of Synodality; the participation of all especially young people and the need for structures and resources to support the local church.
Janet Forbes and Oonagh O’ Brien featuring Sr Nathalie Becquart and Rafael Luciani.
€100 for full course
Anam Cara Parental & Sibling Bereavement Support Group – online meeting 16 September
Anam Cara would like to invite you to join them for an online Bereavement Information and Support Evening taking place 16th September at 7pm. This event will give you an opportunity to hear a bereavement professional talk about the difficult challenges and many milestones grieving a child of any age has on you and your family. If you would like to join please register here https://bit.ly/3Dzyphc or contact info@anamcara.ie / info@anamcarani.co.uk or 085 288 8888 & NI 02895213120
Lough Derg
The Season of Creation: Sept. 1st to 4th Oct. 2021
The Season of Creation has a special significance for the Catholic Church, particularly since Pope Francis established 1 September as an annual World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation.
The Season of Creation or Creation Time, is marked throughout the Christian world from 1 September to 4 October (Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi) and celebrates the joy of creation as well as encouraging awareness-raising initiatives to protect the natural environment.
Restoring Our Common Home
The theme for the Season of Creation 2021 is ‘Restoring Our Common Home’. During this season we are asked to join together to celebrate creation and protect our common home through prayer, reflection and action.
The global Christian family is called to awaken to the urgent need to heal our relationships with creation and with each other and to encourage our parish communities to do the same, “for we know that things can change!” (Laudato Si’, 13).
This year we celebrate this season mindful of the fact that our world continues to deal with the Covid-19 pandemic as well as a devastating climate and biodiversity crisis. We look towards two UN Conferences in the Autumn, COP15 (on Biodiversity, due to take place in China) and COP24 (on climate change, Glasgow) in the hope that world leaders take the urgent action that is needed to Restore Our Common Home. Catholics are urged to sign the “Healthy Planet Healthy People” petition as a key action for this year’s Season of Creation. This petition has been endorsed by the Vatican Dicastery for Integral Human Development in the hope that millions of Catholics will raise their voices in the public sphere to help Restore Our Common Home in the run up to these vital UN Conferences.
The “Healthy Planet Healthy People” Petition
Blessing of School Bags & Back-Packs
Why not use this prayer to bless your child’s school bag / backpack for the year ahead?
Pray for Afghanistan
Bishop McGuckian asks for prayers for Afghanistan and calls on Ireland to do more for forcibly displaced persons.
Read more here:
Visits to the Sick & Housebound
As we soon begin a new school year, we will have a special blessing of school bags / backpacks at all of our Masses over the weekend of August 28th / 29th.
Bring your school bag / back-pack to Mass and we’ll bless it!
Benburb Priory Hosting ‘New Beginnings’ Event 26 August
On Thursday 26 August at 7:30pm, Benburb Priory is hosting an unparalleled event, ‘New Beginnings’. We will feature Servite speakers based in several countries – the famous writer, Sr. Joyce Rupp will be just one prestigious speaker at this event.
Thanks to generous support from the Heritage Lottery Emergency Fund and the Department for Communities Heritage Recovery Fund, the Priory has been upgrading its audio-visual systems to ‘state of the art’.
This will enable meetings, lectures, and seminars to be offered ‘in-house’, ‘on-line’, or in a hybrid format. The Priory’s range of educational, cultural, and spiritual events will henceforth reach a wider audience locally, nationally, and globally.
New Beginnings will be the first such event. Please join us on YouTube, via the Benburb Priory Podcast, at 7:30pm on Thursday 26th of August.
Anam Cara Parental & Sibling Bereavement Support Group – online meeting 18 August
Our August Anam Cara West Cork online meeting for parents will take place on Tuesday 18th August 2021 at 7pm. These online support meetings will continue until we can resume our face to face meetings. This online meeting will be facilitated by Alva Bevan. If you have not already availed of this support and are now interested in joining us online, you can drop an email to info@anamcara.ie. We can then send on more information to you.
Contact Numbers 01 4045378 or 085 2888 888 & NI 02895213120
Email Address info@anamcara.ie/info@anamcarani.co.uk
Youth 2000 Summer Festival
This year the Youth 2000 Summer Festival will take place both ONLINE and IN PERSON!
The festival is primarily taking place ONLINE! All talks, testimonies, Liturgies, prayer and worship will take place online for the course of the weekend and it is here that you can watch, engage with and participate in the Summer Festival in its entirety.
However, in line with government and church regulations, this year they are able to add in person elements once again to their Summer Festival.
These in-person elements will be held at multiple satellite locations around Ireland with slightly different formats in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to ensure that all activities are in line with relevant government regulations there.
For all information and to register please visit www.youth2000.ie
Radio Maria
ANNUAL NOVENA TO OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION
Our annual novena takes place 7th – 15th August. Reflections & Novena prayer at every Mass. You can find all the prayers and reflections here:
Novena to Our Lady of the Assumption
Here’s the latest edition of “Sharing the Good News”, from the Irish Bishops’ Conference. Articles include:
– Northern Catholic Bishops oppose abortion services
– Bishop Brendan Leahy’s tribute to Dessie O’Malley RIP
– Archbishop Michael Neary on the role of grandparents and elderly in the lives of young people
– Restoring Our Common Home during the Season of Creation 2021
– Trócaire thanks supporters during toughest of years
– Archbishop Eamon Martin on dealing with the legacy of our shared past
– Presentation of Papal Award to Radharc’s Peter Dunn by Archbishop Dermot Farrell
– Father Charlie McDonnell thanks priests and pilgrims for supporting the new format of the Croagh Patrick Pilgrimage this year
– Accord Catholic Marriage Care Service seeks applications for Marriage Preparation Programme Facilitators
CLERGY APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ARCHDIOCESE OF ARMAGH
EFFECTIVE 28 AUGUST 2021
Archbishop Eamon Martin announces the following clergy appointments for the Archdiocese of Armagh, effective 28 August 2021.
Archbishop Eamon thanks the priests and deacons of the Archdiocese for their continued ministry and service and wishes well those who are taking up these new appointments. He also thanks the people of the Archdiocese of Armagh for their ongoing prayers and support of their clergy. He encourages them to welcome their new pastors in the coming weeks.
The Archbishop is deeply grateful to the Society of Mary (Marists) who are leaving Holy Family Parish in Dundalk after forty years of generous service to the local community. He wishes well Fr Cormac McNamara, SM, Adm, and Fr Francis Corry, SM, CC, who are departing the parish.
The Archbishop is very grateful also to the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (Redemptorists) who, in addition to their ministry in St Joseph’s Parish, Dundalk, have agreed to serve Holy Family Parish for a fixed period. The Archbishop has appointed Fr Derek Ryan, CSsR, CC, St Joseph’s, Dundalk, and Fr Richard Delahunty, CSsR, to be Administrator and Curate in Holy Family Parish, Dundalk, respectively.
Fr John Hughes, PE, CC, Moy (Clonfeacle), to retire, and to be priest-in-residence, Moy
Fr Fergus Breslan, PE, Moy (Clonfeacle), retired, to be priest-in-residence, Middle Killeavy
Fr Eamonn McCamley, to assist in the parish of Drumglass, Killyman & Tullyniskin (Dungannon)
Fr Desmond Branigan, CC, Magherafelt, to be CC, St Peter’s, Drogheda
Fr Thomas McHugh, CC, Cathedral Parish, Armagh, to be (pro tem), Adm, Moy (Clonfeacle), and Adm, Eglish
Fr Barry Matthews, CC, St Peter’s, Drogheda, to be CC, Cathedral Parish, Armagh
Fr Juan Jesus Gonzalez Borrallo, newly ordained, to be CC, Magherafelt
Fr Callum Young, newly ordained, to be Assistant to the Rector, Redemptoris Mater Archdiocesan Missionary Seminary, Dundalk
Deacon Stephen Wilson, newly ordained, to serve in the parishes of Knockbridge, Kilkerley & Louth
Deacon Colm Hagan, newly ordained, to serve in the parishes of Donaghmore, Pomeroy & Termonmaguirc
Accord Catholic Marriage Care Service CLG is currently recruiting volunteers to train as marriage preparation programme facilitators.
Accord is seeking registration of interest from those who have a positive attitude towards marriage in the Catholic Church and the enthusiasm to be part of a team supporting couples who are preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage.
Successful applicants will receive professional training and will be part of a team delivering marriage preparation programmes locally in accordance with best practice.
Contact Aisling on 01 505 3112 or by email to info@accord.ie.
The closing date for receipt of registration of interest forms to be included in Selections for this year is Friday 27 August.
Additional information is available on www.accord.ie.
UPDATE REGARDING WEARING OF FACE MASKS AT MASS & LITURGIES IN OUR CHURCH
“Westminster has imposed an unjust law” – Northern Catholic Bishops oppose abortion services
Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. Gerard McArdle
Bishop Michael Router’s Homily at the Closing Ceremony of the Year of Reflection and Prayer
Closing of Year of Reflection and Prayer
Pope’s video message for 10th World Meeting of Families – 2022
In his message, Pope Francis outlines some important changes that have been made to the structure of the 10th World Meeting of Families in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. The WMOF2022 is being hosted by the Diocese of Rome but the changes being introduced will see a much greater focus on the local Church.
Pope Francis’ message for the First World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly – July 25th 2021
In a video message, Pope Francis tells the elderly that God is always with them and reassures them that the Lord sends his angels to comfort them in their loneliness.
Mass for the Sick – June 21st 2021
Here is our latest Mass for the Sick, celebrated in the chapel in Daisy Hill Hospital this week.
Please share with those who are sick at home, in hospital, or in care, and those who look after them.
Pope Francis on the Beauty of Marriage
Prayer Vigil for Vocations – Friday 25th June 2021 – 7.30pm
Issues with Our Livestream – June 12th 2021
Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. Leslie Bunkham
St Oliver Plunkett Novena 2021
The St. Oliver Festival Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Denis Nulty at the National Shrine of St. Oliver, St. Peter’s Church, Drogheda on Sunday 4th July at 4.00pm and will be accessible on the St. Peter’s Parish website, www.saintpetersdrogheda.ie (St. Peter’s Church webcam) or on ChurchServices.tv.
MASS FOR THE SICK
Novena Prayers to St. Anthony
World Day of Sanctification for Priests – June 11th 2021
Sharing the Good News – May 2021
The May 2021 issue features articles on the launch of Accord’s new online counselling service, Archbishop Eamon Martin’s presentation of the Holy Father’s message for World Communications Day, comments by Brian Hanley of the ICPO on the transfer of prisoners into the state, Archbishop Dermot Farrell’s acknowledgement of the role of Catholic Schools during the Covid-19 pandemic, the official prayer and hashtag for the World Meeting of Families 2022, Bishop Noel Treanor’s response to the findings of the Ballymurphy inquest, a final call for submissions to the first phase of the Synodal Pathway and the Digital Hub resource.
You can download the May 2021 issue here:
SHARING THE GOOD NEWS MAY 2021
Rathore School – First Holy Communion – May 22nd 2021
We pray God’s blessing on the children from Rathore who will celebrate 1st Holy Communion in our parish on Saturday May 22nd. It is a day of great joy as the children receive our Lord Jesus in this very special way.
In the light of the current Covid-19 situation and following a risk assessment, it has been agreed that attendance will be strictly limited to the child, any siblings of the child and their parents only. All other family members, including grandparents, and friends can join in via livestream here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
Please note that, as with all liturgies in places of worship, face coverings must be worn inside the building and when entering and exiting (exemptions do apply: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-face-coverings#toc-5)
All other current public health precautions also apply – see our latest bulletin for more information: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/bulletin/
Annual Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock
On Sunday May 30th the Diocese will celebrate the Annual Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock. Sadly for the second year running it will not be possible for us all to travel. However it will be broadcast from the Shrine at 3pm with Bishop Michael Chief-celebrant and Preacher.
Broadcast: https://www.knockshrine.ie/watch-live/
By way of preparation for it in this year of St Joseph an introduction by the Archbishop will be broadcast on the Diocesan website (https://www.armagharchdiocese.org/) on the previous Tuesday (May 25th) followed on subsequent days with a reflection on St Joseph and Decade of the Rosary from 5 of the Titular Churches of St Joseph throughout the Diocese.
The program is as follows:
Wednesday 26th May – The Annunciation – St Joseph’s, Caledon Fr Cathal Deveney
Thursday 27th May – The Visitation St Joseph’s, Mell – Fr John McAlinden
Friday 28th May – The Nativity St Joseph’s, Tynan – Fr Sean Moore
Saturday 29th May – The Presentation St Joseph’s, Dundalk – Fr Noel Kehoe
Sunday 30th May – The Finding of the Child Jesus in the Temple – St Joseph’s Castletown Fr Vinod Kurian
Mass for the Sick
UPDATE REGARDING BAPTISMS IN OUR PARISH
Ordinations to the Diaconate
Two of our seminarians – Colm Hagan from Portadown and Stephen Wilson from Coalisland – will be ordained to the Diaconate in St Patrick’s Cathedral on Ascension Day, 16 May at 3.00pm. Please remember Colm and Stephen in your prayers as they take this important step on their pathway to priesthood.
The Mass can be viewed here:
http://armaghparish.net/cathedral-webcam/
Prayer Service at Knock Shrine to pray
for an end to the Pandemic on 10 May at 5.00 pm
Pope urges Catholics to pray in May for end to Covid-19 pandemic
UPDATED ARRANGEMENTS FOR BAPTISMS
IN OUR PARISH
We’ve updated our arrangements for Baptisms in our parish. From May 2nd, grandparents can now attend in person.
Please see the update below and all the information is on the “Baptism” page on our parish website.
Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. Francis McGuirk
Update about Funeral Masses in our Parish
Holy Hour for Vocations to Priesthood
Stations of the Resurrection –
Second Sunday of Easter 2021
Sharing the Good News – March 2021
From the Irish Bishops’ Conference, the March 2021 issue features articles on the plans for a National Synod within the next five years; the announcement by the Northern Bishops of a cautious return to public worship; Knock Shrine’s designation as both Marian and Eucharistic; Archbishop Eamon Martin’s message of hope to the people of Ireland at home and abroad; Dr Jessie Rogers appointed first woman and lay Dean of the Faculty of Theology at the Pontifical University, Maynooth; Bishops of the Tuam Province reflection on Covid-19 one year on; Archbishop of Dublin highlights the importance of public worship in his homily for Saint Patrick’s Day; Pope Francis’ Year of Reflection on the family begins on the Feast of St Joseph; Council for Justice and Peace reflection on those forced to flee; and, the Church Leaders’ message reflecting on the 1921 centenaries.
Mary’s Way of the Cross – Good Friday 2021
“Lord, later I will confess, but forgive me now”
Stations of the Cross for Reconciliation
HOLY THURSDAY RESOURCES
“Easter Joy from the Cathedrals City”
FINAL VIDEO IN OUR LENTEN SERIES!
Please do come join us in person for these Stations which will include an Examination of Conscience.
Confessions will be available after the Stations.
FOR THOSE UNABLE TO ATTEND FOR THE SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION IN PERSON
Stations for Hope
RETURNING TO PUBLIC WORSHIP – AN UPDATE
Mass for the Sick
Here is our latest Mass for the Sick, celebrated in the chapel in Daisy Hill Hospital.
Please share with those who might like to see it, especially those sick at home or in hospital or in care.
Latest Video in Our New Series – “Light & Life”
Stations of the Cross for the Sick
- Bishops in the North announce a cautious return to public worship for the faithful from 26 March, in time for the celebration of Holy Week and Easter.
- Bishops emphasise the need for continued caution and a rigorous application of all mitigations and safeguards required to ensure the safest possible return to public worship in our Churches.
- Every person should consider carefully if returning to collective worship is the safe and appropriate step for them, at this time. Families are encouraged to join those celebrating the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus in churches, from the ‘domestic church’ of their own living rooms, via live-streaming.
- Bishops, together with other Church leaders, encourage all on Easter Sunday to pray and reflect in a spirit of remembering, solidarity and hope in the context of the current pandemic.
Statement
Re-opening of Churches for public worship
Following ongoing consultation between representatives of the Churches, the Executive Office and our public health authorities, and in light of the most recent review of lockdown provisions by the NI Executive yesterday, the Northern Catholic Bishops are pleased to announce that, where possible, there can be a cautious return to public worship for the faithful from 26 March, in time for the celebration of Holy Week and Easter.
We note that other Christian Churches will be making a similar announcement, in keeping with key dates in their liturgical traditions around Easter.
The need for continued vigilance and caution.
In making this announcement, made possible through the collective and heroic effort of so many in our society in their response to the current pandemic, especially our health care workers, the Bishops emphasise the need for continued caution and a rigorous application of all mitigations and safeguards required to ensure the safest possible return to public worship in our Churches. They also stress that public worship should only begin again after a thorough risk assessment, in consultation with those Covid-19 Support Teams in our Parishes. This means that some parishes may decide that, in their particular circumstances, it is not possible to return to public worship until a later date.
In emphasising the cautious nature of this return to public worship the Bishops remind the faithful that the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days remains suspended and that every person should consider carefully if returning to collective worship is the safe and appropriate step for them, at this time. We continue to strongly encourage participation, where possible, including in the ceremonies of Holy Week, by way of live-streaming.
While Baptismal liturgies, prayer gatherings and other acts of worship can take place publicly in our Churches in accordance with today’s announcement, subject to rigorous risk assessment and with all necessary mitigations in place, it is important to note that Weddings and Funerals will continue to be subject to the relevant state regulations in terms of the numbers that can attend.
Amendments to the Liturgies of Holy Week will be required.
This year the celebration of Holy Week and Easter will also require adjustments to certain aspects of the liturgy to take account of the need for safe social distancing, sanitising and other mitigations necessary in the context of the current pandemic. Guidelines for the Liturgies of Holy Week in a time of pandemic will be issued separately to parishes over coming days. We strongly encourage families to participate from the “domestic churches” of their living rooms and join with those who are gathering in their local churches in commemorating the Passion, Death and Resurrection of the Lord this Easter.
Priests are asked to work closely with Parish Pastoral Councils and Covid19 Support Teams in making decisions at a local level on how best to celebrate Holy Week and Easter in a safe manner. We take this opportunity to extend our sincere gratitude to parish teams throughout the country – including caretakers, stewards and cleaners – who generously ensure that our churches are safe environments where people can confidently assemble for worship. Their task is not an easy one and we appeal to all the faithful to cooperate fully with them.
First Confessions, First Communions and Confirmations.
Given the ongoing uncertainty about the public health situation and the gradual lifting of restrictions, it will be necessary for every Parish and school to give careful consideration to how the sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion and Confirmation can be celebrated in a safe and appropriate manner over the coming months. This includes ensuring that all the necessary catechetical preparations are made, rigorous risk assessments are undertaken and, where necessary, ceremonies are significantly reduced in scale.
The Good Friday collection for the Holy Land and other charitable initiatives
Throughout the pandemic, our Parishes have provided a real life-line of hope and solidarity to many in our local communities, including some of the most vulnerable. The joyful message of Easter inspires us to continue to reach out to those in greatest need around us at this time. We therefore ask families and individuals to bring the light of hope to others this Easter by making a particular effort to support the charitable needs of their local parish and by highlighting in a particular way this year the traditional Good Friday collection expressing our solidarity with fellow Christians in the Holy Land. We also draw attention to the ongoing and ever-increasing demands on the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul and Trócaire, which will welcome much needed contributions as they have been unable to raise funds in the normal way during the pandemic.
A time of mercy and healing
We are also conscious that Holy Week and Easter are a time when, traditionally, many people ask for in a particular way God’s forgiveness and for healing of spirit. Although it may not be possible for all who wish to, to safely avail of the sacrament of Reconciliation, we strongly encourage all the faithful to confidently renew their trust in God’s mercy at this sacred time of the year through an Act of Perfect Contrition.
A time of solidarity and hope!
As we continue our journey through the season of Lent in preparation for Easter, we strongly encourage the faithful to bring the intentions of all those impacted by Covid19 to the Lord’s care in prayer and petition. We are particularly conscious of those whose livelihoods have been seriously threatened by the pandemic. We keep in mind people who are coping with bereavement, families that cannot be together, those in care homes who can only have limited visits from their loved ones. The Easter period will also be difficult for Irish emigrants and migrants living in Ireland, who are unable to travel home. We pray that the time will come very soon when loving connections between families and friends can be fully restored.
On Easter Sunday, we will join with Christians of all traditions in offering special prayers of intercession for those impacted by Covid-19 and provide moments for our entire society to reflect together, in a spirit of hope, on the challenges of the past year arising from the global pandemic. Until then, we continue to journey in the confident hope that the efforts of all those working hard to provide the circumstances in which all sectors of our society can re-open safely will soon bear fruit.
(Source: https://www.catholicbishops.ie)
Mass for the Sick
“Open Doors” Prayer Diary
We are always invited to remember and pray for our brothers and sisters around the world who are being persecuted for their faith in Jesus. You can download the “Open Doors” prayer diary here, containing a prayer intention each day for April:
LATEST IN OUR BRAND NEW VIDEO SERIES FOR LENT !
This year, the parish is producing a series of videos for this season of Lent called “Light & Life”. These videos are designed to help guide us through praying with each Sunday’s Gospel. They’ll be available each Friday in Lent and you’ll find the latest one below.
You can find all our “Light & Life” videos here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/lent-video-series/
“Dying with Dignity Bill represents a failure of compassion” – Irish Bishops’ Conference
Archbishop Eamon Martin welcomes the Holy Father’s formal recognition of the Shrine at Knock as an International Marian and Eucharistic Shrine
As President of the Irish Episcopal Conference, I warmly welcome the announcement from the Holy See that the Shrine of Our Lady of Knock is to be recognised as an International Marian and Eucharistic Shrine from 19 March 2021, the feast of Saint Joseph. Since my parents first brought me to Knock as a teenager, I have been drawn back there, many times, to praise God and to find peace, encouragement and spiritual comfort in the shrine chapel.
Just as in 1879, when the Apparition at Knock brought hope to Irish people in distress, so also during these challenging days of the COVID-19 pandemic it reminds us that Jesus, Mary and Joseph remain close to us. As we continue to struggle in so many ways with restrictions and upheaval, the message of Knock offers the promise of hope. It calls us to hear afresh the Word of God, to be nourished by the Holy Eucharist, to entrust ourselves to the Maternal care of Our Lady, and to focus on the person and the role of Saint Joseph – especially in this year dedicated to him.
The Holy Father’s announcement will be particularly welcome as we begin the “Year of the Family”. I recall accompanying Pope Francis during his pilgrimage to Knock as part of his visit to the World Meeting of Families 2018. I heard him say that he had come to “the house of Our Lady” at Knock where he “lifted up to Our Lady’s loving intercession all the families of the world”. He recognised the fact that in the Apparition tableau, Our Lady appears with her family – Jesus, the Lamb of God, her husband Saint Joseph, and Saint John, the son given her by Jesus on the Cross. All being well, as the restrictions ease in the coming months, many Irish families will be able to follow the Holy Father’s footsteps and pay a thanksgiving visit to Knock – now an internationally recognised Marian and Eucharistic Shrine!
I share the joy of Archbishop Michael Neary and thank him for all the work he has done in paving the way for this most welcome announcement. I also congratulate the Rector of the Shrine at Knock, Father Richard Gibbons, and all who collaborate with him in making Knock the special and welcoming place it is.
Latest Video in Our New Series!
Here’s the latest video in our series of Lenten reflections with each Sunday’s Gospel.
This week, Fr. Liam guides us in prayer through John 2:13-25
#LivingLent
Mass for the Sick
Pope’s Prayer Intention for March
(Sung) Divine Mercy Chaplet
ROADWORKS BEGINNING SUNDAY 28th FEBRUARY
Due to the closure of the Drumalane Rd, from the junction of the Dublin Rd, vehicle access to the church carpark will not be possible for c. 3 weeks beginning Sunday 28th February. We have been assured that access will be restored for any funeral etc. that may arise during that time.
The Second Episode of Our Brand New Video Series
for Lent is Here!
Prayer by Telephone
The Sisters of Mercy at “Bethany” House of Prayer, 34 Point Road, Dundalk, welcome any person who may wish to request prayer, especially during these difficult times.
Telephone 00353 (42) 9331602, from 9am to 9pm daily.
One of the Sisters will be happy to listen and pray with you.
All requests are confidential.
Tarsus Scripture School – Lent/Easter Programme 2021
The Tarsus Scripture School are providing a Lent/Easter Programme 2021. They are offering reflections on the readings for Holy Week and the Easter Triduum. It is an opportunity to explore more personally the Word of God. The programme offers one webinar and one meditation. The meditation — after Easter — will be an opportunity to “take in” what we have celebrated over Holy Week and Easter.
TSS for Lent and Easter 2021
Easter: Weaving the Tapestry of Death and New Life
9 pre-recorded lectures; 1 webinar; 1 meditation (€30)
o “Behold my servant”: the Servant of the Lord in Isaiah (Jessie Rogers)
o “And when I am lifted up, I will draw all people to myself”: Easter in John (Sean Goan)
o “Dying and raised to new life in Christ”: Salvation in Romans. (Kieran J. O’Mahony)
For registration and further details, please go to: www.tarsusscriptureschool.ie
Life in the Spirit Seminars to take place via webcam in Armagh during Lent
Armagh Parish Holy Spirit Prayer Group are hosting the Life in the Spirit Seminars in St Malachy’s Church, Armagh during the coming weeks on Tuesday evenings at 8pm. The programme continues as follows:
Tues 2nd March: Archbishop Eamon Martin will speak on “New Life”
Tues 9th March: Geraldine Parkes will speak on “Receiving Gods gifts”
Tues 16th March: Fr Gerry Campbell will speak on “Baptism in the Holy Spirit”
Tues 23rd March: Bishop Michael Router will speak on “Growth in the Spirit”
Tues 30th March Teresa Lappin will speak on “Transformation in Christ”.
People are encouraged to join via St Malachy’s Church Webcam http://armaghparish.net/st-malachys-church-webcam/ on each of the evenings and especially during the season of Lent, to help deepen their faith and to grow in knowledge and love of God.
Bishops encourage support of vaccine programmes against Covid-19
Council for Healthcare of the Bishops’ Conference urges everyone to support the vaccination programmes currently in place in the Republic and in Northern Ireland
Last December the Irish Catholic Bishops in a statement said that “safe and effective vaccination is an essential aspect of the prevention of disease”. They encouraged Catholics to support the programme of vaccination “not only for their own good, but for the protection of life and the health of those who are vulnerable and for the common good of humanity”. The Vatican Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith made a similar call to all Catholics in its Note on the morality of Covid-19 vaccines (21 December 2020). The Council for Healthcare of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference wishes to reiterate that message and urges everyone to support the vaccination programmes currently in place in the Republic of Ireland and in Northern Ireland.
The development and provision of the vaccines is already providing reassurance for those who are most vulnerable to the virus and will help us to return to normality in terms of work, education, religious practice, and sporting and leisure activities as soon as possible.
We note that many people both North and South have already received the vaccine and we particularly welcome the fact that all residents and staff of nursing care facilities have been vaccinated at this stage. At present the group prioritised in the Republic of Ireland to receive the vaccine in the coming weeks are those over 70 years of age while in Northern Ireland it is those over 65 years of age along with others who are clinically vulnerable. We encourage all parishes and Church personnel to promote this programme and to encourage elderly parishioners, relatives and neighbours to avail of the opportunity to protect their health and the health of the whole community.
In Northern Ireland the main carers in the home for those who are elderly or disabled can now book a vaccination online at one of the 7 trust centres. An appointment can be made at https://covid-19.hscni.net/get-vaccinated or, if you cannot access the internet, by telephone at 0300 200 7813. The phone line is open Monday to Friday from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm. We call for the Department of Health and public health authorities to make vaccines available to carers in the Republic of Ireland as a matter of priority and to priests who are chaplains to nursing care facilities and who preside at funerals.
Trustworthy and updated information on vaccines is available on https://www2.hse.ie/covid-19-vaccine/ in the Republic of Ireland and https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/covid-19-coronavirus/northern-ireland-covid-19-vaccination-programme in Northern Ireland.
Livestream Update:
Our livestream is now back online.
Our Latest Mass for the Sick
We’ve just uploaded our most recent Stations of the Cross to our parish YouTube page. Just click on the video below.
You can also find the Stations uploaded each week in Lent on our parish website here:
http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/stations-of-the-cross-in-lent/
BRAND NEW VIDEO SERIES FOR LENT…
This year, the parish is producing a series of videos for this season of Lent called “Light & Life”. These videos are designed to help guide us through praying with each Sunday’s Gospel. They’ll be available each Friday in Lent.
You can find the first video below.
What might God be throwing light on in the Gospel for me?
How can the Gospel shape my life?
Supporting Trócaire in Lent 2021
LIVESTREAM UPDATE
New for Lent 2021
Ash Wednesday 2021 will be mostly without ashes
but families can pray, fast and be generous –
Archbishop Eamon Martin
We’re experiencing an issue with our “Live Broadcast” page today.
The livestream is there but is appearing smaller than usual.
It is being investigated.
“Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem” (Mt 20:18)
Lent: a Time for Renewing Faith, Hope and Love
Saturday Masses of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Consecration to St. Joseph
Vigil for the Deceased for Mrs Anne Morgan
Update re Funerals at Our Church
Celebrating Ash Wednesday This Year
With the “Stay at Home” message, and continuing public health restrictions on gathering for worship, we clearly cannot gather together as we normally would for the distribution of ashes this year. So, as in all parishes on this island, ashes will not be distributed in our church this year.
Own own internal disposition and intention to repent and start over is the key to Ash Wednesday. Ashes are meant to be an outward sign of that commitment to repentance. Perhaps this year we are being invited not to mark our foreheads but to mark our hearts so that we we can more fully celebrate the great feast of Easter?
Ash Wednesday is always about the beginning of the season of Lent – a time of prayer, fasting and almsgiving.
A short prayer service will shortly be made available via our parish website and this Facebook page so that parishioners can mark the beginning of Lent in their own homes.
Details of the other ways we can mark the season of Lent, as a parish, households and individuals will be made available in coming days.
World Day of the Sick – February 11th 2021
“You have but one teacher and you are all brothers” (Mt 23:8).
A trust-based relationship to guide care for the sick
Pope Francis has written a letter to mark the World Day of the Sick on February 11th (also the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes).
You can download the letter here:
Pope Francis_World Day of the Sick 2021
Vigil for the Deceased for Mrs Rosaleen Henry
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner. However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online this evening at 7.30pm for the Vigil for the Deceased for Mrs. Rosaleen Henry.
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
Novena For World Day of the Sick – 3 to 11 February 2021
Ahead of the celebration of the World Day of the Sick on 11 February 2021, the Bishops’ Council for Healthcare offers the following Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes to pray for those who are sick, for all who work in the medical profession, and for an end to the pandemic.
The Novena begins on Wednesday 3 February and concludes on Thursday 11 February – the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes and World Day of the Sick.
The Novena can be prayed each day as follows:
1. Make the sign of the Cross
2. Say the novena prayer
3. Pray a decade of the rosary.
4. The invocations
5. Read the reflection for each day.
6. The Confiteor
7. To conclude recite the Act of Spiritual Communion
Novena Prayer
Mary,
Our Lady of Lourdes,
you appeared at the grotto of Massabielle
to Bernadette, a simple shepherdess.
You brought her the radiant light of your smile,
the gentle, resplendent brightness of your presence.
Day by day, you built a relationship with her
where you gazed at her gently
as one person talking to another.
We, too, come before you in our poverty,
and we humbly pray to you.
May those who doubt discover the joy of trust.
May those who despair sense your discreet presence.
Mary,
Our Lady of Lourdes,
you revealed your name to Bernadette
by simply saying “I am the Immaculate Conception”.
May we discover the joy of a forgiveness that never falters.
Instil in us the desire for a rediscovered innocence
and a joyful holiness.
Help the blinded sinner.
You who gave birth to the Saviour of the world,
look tenderly on our beautiful but tragic world.
Open in us the path of hope,
guide us to the One who is the Living Source,
Jesus, your Son, who teaches us to call God Father.
Decade of the Rosary
- Wednesday 3rd – The first Glorious Mystery – The Resurrection
- Thursday 4th – The First Luminous Mystery – The Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan
- Friday 5th – The First Sorrowful Mystery – The Agony in the Garden
- Saturday 6th – The First Joyful Mystery – The Annunciation
- Sunday 7th – The Second Glorious Mystery – The Ascension
- Monday 8th – The Second Joyful Mystery – The Visitation
- Tuesday 9th – The Second Sorrowful Mystery – The Scourging at the Pillar
- Wednesday 10th – The Third Glorious Mystery – The Descent of the Holy Spirit
- Thursday 11th – The Second Luminous Mystery – The Wedding Feast at Cana
The Invocations
“Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us!”
“Saint Bernadette, pray for us!”
“O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee!”
More at https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2021/02/01/novena-to-our-lady-of-lourdes/
Prayer to St. Blaise
While we cannot gather today for the traditional Blessing of Throats on the feast of St. Blaise, we are invited to pray this prayer to St. Blaise, imploring his intercession.
(Source: daily-prayers.org)
Year of Reflection & Prayer Extended to June 2021
As the Diocesan Pastoral Plan in the Archdiocese of Armagh for the period 2015 to 2020, drew to a close, the Archdiocese launched a Year of Reflection and Prayer in January 2020 so that it could begin making preparations for a new Pastoral Plan in a new decade!
The purpose of the year was to encourage reflection and seek the wisdom and guidance of the Holy Spirit in discerning the way forward for the diocese in the years ahead.
No one could have foreseen the arrival of a worldwide pandemic in 2020, nor the immense changes and challenges that it heralds. For this reason, the Archdiocese has decided to extend the year of reflection and prayer until June 2021.
In this video, Bishop Michael Router and Leah Marron reflect on the year that has passed, acknowledging the difficulties it has presented, and outlining some pastoral initiatives that the Archdiocese has engaged with.
Knock Shrine to host special online faith discussions during Lent
Ash Wednesday falls on 17 February and heralds the beginning of Lent 2021. This year Knock Shrine will host a new series of online discussions to help engage Christians during Lent, under the title ‘Living Christian Faith – Lenten Conversations’.
What nurtures our faith and what challenges it today?
Where do we find hope and joy in our lives?
How can our faith build mental strength, wellbeing and resilience?
How has the Covid pandemic impacted upon our faith?
These are just some of the questions that will be explored over the 6 weeks of Lent during a new series of online discussions on the topic of ‘Living Christian Faith’. Faith Renewal at Knock Shrine is all about reaching out to people. This will open a conversation on contemporary issues of faith and church life.
Chaired by Father Eamonn Conway DD, Priest in Tuam diocese and Professor of Theology at Mary Immaculate College, the conversations will explore a different theme each week and guest speakers will discuss some of the important questions we all face in living out our faith.
The discussions will be streamed online via the Knock Shrine website offering people from all over the world the opportunity to engage in relevant topics and to hear from a range of people, from those in public life such as Baroness Nuala O’Loan and Senator Ronan Mullen to groups of young teachers and members of the clergy.
Thursday 18 February ‘Living Christian Faith in the Family’
Saint John Paul spoke about how the future of humanity passes by way of the family. Patrick and Linda Treacy, who have four children and run a centre for domestic spirituality called Integritas from their home, will speak about the joys and challenges of living Christian Faith as a family today.
Thursday 25 February ‘Living Christian Faith as Young Adults’
A group of young Irish adults, for whom Christian Faith is of great importance, will discuss the strength it gives them and how we can better communicate the joy of the Gospel today.
Thursday 4 March ‘Living Christian Faith in the Classroom as Young Teachers’
Three recently qualified primary teachers explain how their religious faith is important to them and how it influences their work as teachers in the classroom.
Thursday 11 March ‘Living Christian Faith in Public Life’
Baroness Nuala O’Loan, Senator Ronan Mullen and discuss their own faith, how it informs their public service and the challenges people of faith encounter in the public sphere today.
Thursday 18 March ‘Proclaiming Christian Faith as a priest or religious today’
Sr Ursula Lawler, lecturer in Christian Ethics at Mary Immaculate College, returned missionary and editor of the Africa Magazine, Father Sean Deegan SPS; Ballyhaunis Parish Priest Father Stephen Farragher and Father Eamonn Conway will discuss living priesthood and religious life today in conversation with young Irish Catholic journalist Jason Osbourne.
Thursday 25 March ‘Studying Christian Faith’
Máire McDonald is Vice Principal of a busy secondary school in Dublin. Judith King is an internationally recognised psychotherapist and Margaret Naughton is a busy hospital chaplain. Yet they have all found time to fulfil their passion of doing a PhD in theological studies. They share with us how their theological studies enriches their faith and their work.
The talks will be streamed at 8.30pm every Thursday during Lent.
Join us at www.knockshrine.ie/watch-live or on Facebook @knockshrine
Sharing the Good News – January 2021
Sharing the Good News” is a publication of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, designed to keep us up-to-date with some of the latest news in the Irish Church.
The January 2021 issue features articles on the publication of the Mother and Baby Homes Report; Pope Francis’ appointment of Bishop Dermot Farrell as Archbishop of Dublin; the upcoming celebration of Catholic Schools Week and the ‘Amoris Laetitia Family’ year. You will also find articles on the Accord Catholic Marriage Care Service CLG advertising campaign; the launch of the Digital Hub resource for parishes and a look forward to World Day of the Sick and our #LivingLent 2021 social media campaign.
You can download this issue as a PDF here:
https://www.catholicbishops.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Sharing-the-Good-News-January-2021.pdf
Statement by Archbishop Eamon Martin on the publication of Research Report on Mother and Baby Homes and Magdalene Laundries in Northern Ireland
The month of January 2021 will go down in history as the time when the people of Ireland – north and south – came face to face with a stark reality of our past which we preferred would remain hushed and hidden – the way we stigmatised and harshly judged many vulnerable pregnant women in crisis and treated them and their children in such a cold and uncaring manner. We made them feel guilty and ashamed.
As a Catholic Church leader in Ireland it is I who now feel embarrassed and guilty over the way in which we in the Church contributed to, and bolstered, that culture of concealment, condemnation, and self-righteousness. For that I am truly sorry and ask the forgiveness of survivors. How did we so obscure the love and mercy and compassion of Christ which is at the very heart of the Gospel? Shame on us.
The persistence and the powerful testimonies of these same courageous survivors has lifted the lid on this dark chapter of our shared history and exposed our hypocrisy to the glaring light.
The important work of Dr McCormick, Professor O’Connell and their team is another step on the journey towards revealing the full truth of our past. I thank them for their Report and encourage everyone to spend time with it, reflecting in particular on the striking oral history section which grounds their research in the testimonies of mothers and their children.
The story of Mother and Baby Homes and Magdalene Laundries in Ireland – north and south – touches the lives of countless families across this island. No doubt it will rekindle troubling memories and raise difficult questions for many of us. However we can all play a part in the journey towards healing and reparation. We can also ensure that lessons are learned for the present and the future. No mother or child today should be made to feel unwelcome, unwanted or unloved. No father today should shirk his responsibilities. No priest or bishop or religious sister or any lay member of the Church today should deny the mercy and forgiveness of Jesus. No family today should shun their child to protect some misguided notion of “respectability” in the parish and community. We still have so much to learn and so much work to do.
It is clear from the Research Report that there is scope for further investigation or inquiry into aspects of this complex story. I encourage all in leadership within the Church and State to extend their full cooperation with the work of the independent investigation announced today so that those who have been most impacted can be helped to find hope and peace for the future.
ENDS
Archbishop Eamon Martin is Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland.
Statement by the Northern Catholic Bishops
Re extension of the Covid-19 Shut-down by the Northern Ireland Executive
to 5th March 2021.
Yesterday afternoon the Northern Ireland Executive took the unanimous decision to extend the current Covid-19 restrictions until Friday 5th March 2021. This decision was based on the strong recommendation of the Chief Medical Officer and the Chief Scientific Advisor, as a result of the continued extremely high level of transmission of the Covid-19 virus throughout the community (which over these last four weeks had not reduced to the level that had been hoped for), along with the increasing numbers in hospital and intensive care.
In the light of this decision, and on the basis of the clear and unequivocal public health advice that people should continue to stay at home, the Northern Catholic Bishops have decided that, until 5 March (but subject to ongoing review in line with any change to the public health advice), the celebration of the Eucharist and other liturgies should continue to take place without the physical presence of the faithful. Marriage, funeral, baptismal liturgies and drive-in services may continue (subject to strict safety guidelines and regulations). Arrangements for recording and/or livestreaming and making individual visits for private prayer are also permissible in accordance with regulations. We encourage parishes, where possible, to continue to broadcast the celebration of Mass – and other devotions and prayer services – online and on other media, knowing that faith and prayer can be a tremendous support to individuals and society during these difficult times.
We once more make this decision reluctantly, conscious of the pain that not being able to gather for public worship causes for all the faithful, but in the hope that this period of sacrifice is inspired by the command of Jesus to love our neighbours and undertaken for the protection of life and health and for the Common Good.
We continue to ask for prayers for the sick, the bereaved and all those whose livelihoods have been particularly impacted by the pandemic. We keep especially in mind all health workers, carers, chaplains and other essential workers. We welcome the announcement that a similar position is being taken by the leaders of the Church of Ireland, the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, the Methodist Church in Ireland and many other denominations and faith communities in response to the unequivocal message from public health authorities that as many people as possible stay at home at this time.
Most Rev Eamon Martin DD
Archbishop of Armagh & Primate of All-Ireland
Apostolic Administrator of Dromore
Most Rev Noel Treanor DD
Bishop of Down and Connor
Most Rev Donal McKeown DD
Bishop of Derry
Most Rev Larry Duffy DD
Bishop of Clogher
Most Rev Michael Router DD
Auxiliary Bishop of Armagh
Pope Francis: Message for the World Day of the Sick 2021
Pope Francis has sent his message for the World Day of the Sick in 2021.
You can read the full text of his message here:
http://www.vatican.va/…/papa-francesco_20201220_giornata-ma…
Here’s a news article about the message:
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/…/pope-francis-world-day…
Archbishop Eamon Martin welcomes the publication of the Mother & Baby Homes Report
Read the statement from the Archbishop here:
From Our Bishops
Interim Guidance re Funerals
IMPORTANT UPDATE RE MASS TIMES
In light of our churches closing for public Masses (see post below), effective from now until February 6th, the Mass times in our parish will be as follows:
Daily (Mon – Sun inclusive) – 10.30am
Saturday Vigil 6.15pm
All other Mass times are suspended until February 6th.
All Masses and other celebrations continue to be live-streamed on our parish website:
http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
All Mass intentions (including anniversaries, Month’s Minds, etc.) will be transferred to the 10.30am Mass on the same day as they were originally recorded for.
A major reason for this reduction in Masses is to facilitate the anticipated, much greater commitment that will be required to Daisy Hill Hospital in the weeks ahead.
Fr. Liam will take on more responsibility for Masses, etc. in the parish while Fr. Damien’s focus moves more to supporting patients and staff in Daisy Hill Hospital as hospital chaplain.
OUR CHURCH REMAINS OPEN FOR PRIVATE PRAYER
TEMPORARY ARRANGEMENTS
FOR THE CELEBRATION OF BAPTISM
IN OUR PARISH
FROM 7th JAN TO 6th FEB 2021
For more on the Sacrament of Baptism, visit http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/baptism/
IMPORTANT NEWS – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
MORE LOCAL INFORMATION TO FOLLOW BY END OF TODAY
Catholic Bishops of Northern Ireland: “As many people as possible stay at home for the sake of health, life and the Common Good”
“Faith and prayer can be a tremendous support to individuals and society during these difficult times”
Statement
Following further briefing today by the Chief Medical Officer and the Chief Scientific Officer, and in consultation with The Executive Office, we are very concerned at the current serious public health position in which Northern Ireland finds itself: with the extremely high level of transmission of the Covid-19 virus; the continuing escalation of numbers in hospital and intensive care; the number of associated deaths; and, the increasingly unsustainable pressure on our healthcare staff. The clear message from health officials is that this situation is going to worsen significantly over the coming weeks.
We recognise the efforts of so many in our parishes who have been working to ensure that our gatherings for public worship are as safe as possible and we welcome the continuing engagement between the faith communities and the NI Executive which has led to consensus between us on the importance of people being able to gather in person for worship. At this time, however, we acknowledge and support the unequivocal message from public health authorities that the movement and gathering of people should be minimised and that as many people as possible stay at home for the sake of health, life and the Common Good.
In light of our ongoing consultations and of the current serious and worsening situation, and in line with clear public health guidance that people should stay at home, we have decided that for a limited period (from midnight on Thursday 7 January until Saturday 6 February 2021, subject to review in late January), the celebration of the Eucharist and other liturgies should take place without the physical presence of the faithful – with the exception of marriage, funeral, baptismal liturgies and drive-in services (subject to regulations). Arrangements for recording and/or livestreaming, and making individual visits for private prayer are also permissible in accordance with regulations. We encourage parishes, where possible, to continue to broadcast the celebration of Mass – and other devotions and prayer services – online and on other media, knowing that faith and prayer can be a tremendous support to individuals and society during these difficult times.
We make this decision reluctantly, conscious that not being able to gather for public worship can cause pain for all the faithful, but in the hope that this limited period of sacrifice will be for the protection of life and health and for the greater good of all. We once more ask for prayers for the sick, the bereaved and all those whose livelihoods have been particularly impacted by the pandemic. We keep in our prayers all health workers, carers, chaplains and other essential workers. We welcome the announcement that a similar position is being taken by the leaders of the Church of Ireland, the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, the Methodist Church in Ireland and many other denominations and faith communities in response to the unequivocal message from public health authorities that as many people as possible stay at home at this time.
Most Rev Eamon Martin DD
Archbishop of Armagh & Primate of All-Ireland
Apostolic Administrator of Dromore
Most Rev Noel Treanor DD
Bishop of Down and Connor
Most Rev Donal McKeown DD
Bishop of Derry
Most Rev Larry Duffy DD
Bishop of Clogher
Most Rev Michael Router DD
Auxiliary Bishop of Armagh
From the Priory Institute, Tallaght
Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. John (Jack) Bradley
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner. However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online at 8pm on Monday for the Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. John (Jack) Bradley.
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. Eddie Quinn
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner. However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online at 7.30pm tonight for the Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. Eddie Quinn.
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. George (Geordie) McGivern
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner. However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online at 8.00pm tonight for the Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. George (Geordie) McGivern
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
Liturgy of An Act of Perfect Contrition
December 23rd 2020
For some in these days, especially those in hospital, nursing homes or the homebound, it’s not possible to come celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation safely.
But let us not despair of God’s mercy.
This year, Pope Francis reminded us of an outstanding principle of the Church – perfect contrition. The Pope said:
“You do what the Catechism says. It is very clear: if you do not find a priest to hear your confession, speak to God, he is your father, and tell him the truth. Enumerate your sins, ask the Lord for forgiveness with all your heart, and make an act of contrition. Promise him: ‘Later I will confess, but forgive me now.’ And immediately you will return to the grace of God.”
In that spirit, we celebrated a special liturgy this week. It was online only and takes us through an examination of conscience and an Act of Perfect Contrition.
Vigil for the Deceased for Mrs. Philomena Lonergan
UPDATE RE CHRISTMAS MASS TICKETS
- 10pm Christmas Eve
- 9am Christmas Day
- 10.30am Christmas Day
- 12.30pm Christmas Day
Vigil for the Deceased for Alice Woods
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner. However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online at 8.30pm tonight for the Vigil for the Deceased for Alice Woods.
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
“Later I Will Confess But Forgive Me Now”
For some in these days, especially those in hospital, nursing homes or the homebound, it’s not possible to come celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation safely.
But let us not despair of God’s mercy.
This year, Pope Francis reminded us of an outstanding principle of the Church – perfect contrition. The Pope said:
“You do what the Catechism says. It is very clear: if you do not find a priest to hear your confession, speak to God, he is your father, and tell him the truth. Enumerate your sins, ask the Lord for forgiveness with all your heart, and make an act of contrition. Promise him: ‘Later I will confess, but forgive me now.’ And immediately you will return to the grace of God.”
In that spirit, this week, we’ll celebrate a special liturgy on Wednesday at 7.30pm. It will be online only and will take us through an examination of conscience and an Act of Perfect Contrition.
You can watch the Liturgy here:
http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
It will be posted to our YouTube page on Thursday
(https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYIA65a-rKKbAVvNOhs0hkg)
Download here: PRAYER IN THE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS 2020 FINAL
Download here: A Prayer for Christmas Gatherings 2020
Due to the 8pm “curfew” that will be part of lockdown during the week from 26th December – 2nd January, the 8pm Vigil on Saturday 26th December, and the 7.30pm Masses on Tues. 28th and Thurs. 31st will not take place.
Regarding the 7.30pm Masses on Tuesday and Thursday that week, it would not be possible to vacate the church and for all activities to have ceased by 8pm on those nights.
We are awaiting guidance with regard to the 8pm Mass on Saturday 2nd January.
Vigil for the Deceased for Eileen McCabe
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner.
However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online at 6.30pm tonight for the Vigil for the Deceased for Eileen McCabe
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. Cahal Lundy
This year, with the help of Carnagat Community Association, we celebrated a short liturgy of remembrance in the Paupers’ Graveyard in our parish.
- The First Reading was from Isaiah 25:6-9.
The Psalm was “The Lord is My Shepherd”
The Gospel was from Matthew’s Gospel, chapter 11.
The Prayers of Intercession were as follows:
1. For our relatives and friends who have gone before us, and await the Kingdom, that they may have the reward of their goodness…
2. For those who have fallen asleep in the hope of rising again, that they may see God face to face…
3. For those whose faith was known to you alone, that they will have light, happiness and peace
4. For all who mourn for the loss of their loved ones, that they will find comfort in their sadness, certainty in their doubt, and courage in their loneliness…
5. For ourselves, who have assembled here to worship in faith, that we may be reunited one day with all whom we love, when every tear will be wiped away…
You can view it here (apologies for the poor sound quality – wind and traffic issues):
The annual PIPS Service of Remembrance, Hope and Healing was celebrated in the Church of the Assumption, Parish of Middle Killeavy, on Sunday 13th December 2020.
You can view the service in full here:
Stations of Advent & Christmas – Week 3
Young people from our Youth 2000 group lead us in song, music and prayer as we journey through the third set of Stations of Advent & Christmas:
9. The Naming of Jesus: “It’s all in the name” (Luke 2:21)
10. The Magi: “Stars: Bringers of bad news and good news” (Matthew 2:1-11)
11. Simeon and Anna: “Light comes to those who wait” (Luke 2:22A, 25-38)
You can view weeks 1 and 2 here:
http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/stations-of-advent-christmas/
Missed our blessing of the figures of the Baby Jesus this weekend?
Here’s a blessing that can be used at home!
Bambinelli Sunday
It’s that time of year again!
We will celebrate Bambinelli Sunday in our parish next weekend (12th & 13th). Those attending Masses are invited to bring the Baby Jesus figure from your own crib to Mass that weekend to be blessed. Those joining our celebration via the Livestream might wish to have their “bambinello” to hand. After Mass, place the infant in a gift box, wrap it, and save it for Christmas morning. Let this be the first gift your family opens on Christmas morning, when together you place your Baby Jesus figure in the crib.
From The Society of Missionary Children
The Society of Missionary Children’s famous Christmas colouring competition is now live! 🎄 Last year we had the difficult task of picking winners from over 12,000 children that entered. 😍 You can find the competition entry form and our Advent resources at 👉 https://www.wmi.ie/advent-resources-2020
“A Family Christmas”
Archbishop Eamon Martin will lead ‘A Family Christmas’ from St. Patrick’s Cathedral Armagh on Tuesday 22nd December at 7.30pm.
All are welcome to join via St Patrick’s Cathedral webcam:
http://armaghparish.net/cathedral-webcam/
To help our little ones learn the REAL meaning of Christmas, The Society of Missionary Children have created an Advent Activity Calendar!
Why not download and get family and friends involved?
Give a gift every day this Advent that’ll cost nothing only kindness! 😊
To download, visit https://www.wmi.ie/advent-resources-2020
From & For Our Colleagues in the Southern Trust
From Monday (3oth Nov) we are asking you to phone first before going to Craigavon or Daisy Hill Emergency Departments or South Tyrone Minor Injuries Unit with an urgent but not life threatening injury or illness.
Read more here:
ANNUAL PIPS CHRISTMAS SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE, HOPE & HEALING
(ONLINE ONLY THIS YEAR)
The service will incorporate a Memory Tree Ceremony where family and friends are invited to place a remembrance card with a message for their loved one.
To have your message included in the ceremony please contact the PIPS office on 028 30266195 or info@pipshopeandsupport.org and staff will complete a memory card on your behalf.
The 2020 Online Advent Calendar
Archbishop Eamon Martin has launched the 2020 online Advent Calendar, which will go live on www.catholicbishops.ie on the first Sunday of Advent, 29 November.
You’ll find it here: https://www.catholicbishops.ie/adventcalendar/
Now in its seventh year, the unique online Advent Calendar offers resources for the parish, school and for families which can be accessed behind a virtual door each day during the season of Advent.
The content is aimed at assisting people of all ages to pray and reflect on how best we can keep Christ at the centre of our Christmas preparations during this special liturgical season.
Archbishop Eamon said:
“Our Advent online calendar is a helpful resource on our ‘journey’ towards Christmas. By clicking on a virtual door we are inviting people to take just five minutes for reflection so as to find moments of peace and to rediscover the true meaning of Advent and Christmas.
“Since the outbreak of the pandemic the people of Ireland have endured testing times with courage, resilience, and compassion. Individuals and communities have made great sacrifices for the protection of life, health and for the common good. Many Christians have been reaching out in generous service and support for their neighbours, the lonely, the isolated, the sick and the bereaved. Faith, love and hope – in the home and in church – have been a huge support during these difficult times. As we continue, in solidarity, to progress together, I invite everyone to be part of #SharingHope this Advent season by availing of the helpful resources on our calendar and through sharing these with others on social media.
“The seasons of Advent and Christmas occur in the depth of winter reminding us that Christ was born to bring hope to a darkened world. As the prophet Isaiah said “the people that wait in darkness see a great light”. During Advent, let us reflect on the eternal message of Christmas, which is, Christ is alive and that He is our hope.”
Parish Office Now Closed for Two Weeks
Due to the enhanced restrictions brought in by the NI Executive, our parish office is now closed until Friday December 11th.
In the meantime you can contact us as below:
Still Open for Private Prayer
Our parish church will remain open for private prayer during the next two weeks of enhanced restrictions.
Please continue to observe all precautions when visiting the church (see poster just inside the main door for more).
ADVANCE NOTICE – CHRISTMAS MASSES
In order to ensure social distancing is maintained, admission to these Masses will be by ticket only.
Those wishing to apply for tickets are asked to leave their name, number of persons (max. 5 and all from the same household) and a contact telephone number, at the Parish Office or via email: assumptionnewry@gmail.com
Parishioners are also asked to specify which Mass tickets are being sought for.In order to allocate tickets in as fair a way as possible, names, which must be received by 12noon on Friday 18th December, will be put into a hat and a lottery take place. Those drawn out will be informed by Tuesday 22nd.
As a parish, we regret the fact that many of those who have attended our Christmas Masses in previous years will not be able to do so this year but trust you will understand the reasons why.
We would ask that only those who live in our parish or are regular attendees at our church would seek tickets.
Month’s Mind / 1st Anniversary Masses
In order to ensure appropriate social distancing, which is often difficult at many of the weekend Masses, families booking Month’s Memory & 1st Anniversary Masses will be asked to have them celebrated at the Tuesday or Thursday evening Mass. We regret this step but given attendance at some Masses in recent weeks we feel it necessary for the protection of all.
Vigil for the Deceased for Lucia (Lucy) Welsh – Tonight at 7.30pm
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner.
However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online at 7.30pm tonight for the Vigil for the Deceased for Lucia (Lucy) Walsh.
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
In November We Remember
We are particularly conscious of families who have lost loved ones in the past year. As families are not able to attend remembrance services in person this year, we offer this prayer resource for use at home.
We would suggest that this prayer service be used throughout the month of November as a way to remember our loved ones who are no longer with us.
You can download the service here:
Family-Prayer-Service-at-Home-in-November
WE REMEMBER…
To mark the 20th anniversary of the dedication of the Jubilee Cross outside our church to the memory of our deceased infants, we held a short liturgy of remembrance to remember them and those who mourn their passing.
You can view it here:
https://youtu.be/K7prjMnk8uM
ANNUAL MASS FOR THE DECEASED
Due to the likelihood that we would be unable to accommodate those who may wish to be present in a safe environment, the annual Mass for the Deceased will take place “behind closed doors” on Friday 27th November at 7.30pm (see poster below).
Anyone wishing to place the name of their loved one(s) on a candle can leave the name(s) in the Parish Office before Wednesday 25th November. Candles can be in the name of any of the faithful departed, not just those who have died in the past year.
The candles will be lit before the Mass and will then be available for collection from the Parish Office from Mon. 30th November. Perhaps you might like to keep the candle and light it on Christmas Day?
Week of Witness” – 25 November –2 December
“Week of Witness” will take place from Wednesday 25 November – Wednesday 2 December 2020. During the week, we will remember all who have given great witness to their faith in the past and those who continue to give witness today and all who will continue to give great witness in the future.
On Wednesday 25th November (Red Wednesday) Archbishop Martin will celebrate a special Liturgy in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh at 7.30pm. People are invited to wear something red as we remember all who have given and all who continue to give great witness to their faith.
Vigil for the Deceased for Mrs. Theresa Kinney – Tonight at 8pm
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner.
However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online at 8pm tonight for the Vigil for the Deceased for Mrs. Theresa Kinney.
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
Parishes across the Archdiocese are asked to remember Road Traffic Victims on Sunday, 15th November, the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.
Praying for this intention provides an opportunity to remember a parent, son, daughter, brother, sister or friend who have lost their lives as the result of a road traffic collision. It is also a day to thank our emergency services and reflect on the tremendous burden and cost of this daily continuing disaster to families and communities.
Deaths, of course, are the most tragic, but many thousands are injured every day on our roads; Road traffic injuries leave behind shattered families and communities. The grief and distress experienced by these people is all the greater because many of the victims are young and many of the crashes could and should have been prevented.
Please take a few moments to pause and remember anyone you know who has either lost their life or who has suffered received life changing injuries as the result of a road traffic accident on this year’s World Day of Remembrance.
A Prayer as We Begin Our Journey:
Holy Mother, hear our prayer,
Keep us in your loving care,
Whatever the perils of the way,
Let us not add to them this day.
So to our caution and attention,
We add a prayer for your protection,
To beg God’s blessing on this car,
To travel safely near and far.
Amen.
Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. James (Cush) McKevitt Tonight at 6pm
Counselling
Counselling is an essential service which is permitted during times of pandemic restrictions. The Accord Newry Centre is providing ‘in person’ Couples Relationships Counselling. Please contact Moira O’Hare, Accord Newry on 07918170686 for information.
Office Hours are Monday to Wednesday 5 pm to 8.30 pm & Thursday 5pm to 7.30 pm.
Pre-Marriage Courses
Accord Newry are endeavouring to accommodate couples via our Virtual Interactive Marriage Preparation Programme, during these uncertain times and courses can be booked on www.accord.ie. The cost of the course is £135.
Sunday 17th January (9.30 am to 2pm with a half hour break)
Tuesday 26th & Wednesday 27th January (7pm to 9 pm both evenings)
Sunday 7th February (9.30 am to 2pm with a half hour break)
Tuesday 23rd & Wednesday 24th February (7pm to 9 pm both evenings)
Sunday 21st March (9.30 am to 2pm with a half hour break)
Tuesday 30th & Wednesday 31st March (7pm to 9 pm both evenings)
In November, We Remember
This year, the month of November, in which we traditionally remember the dead and pray for the bereaved, will be particularly poignant. We sense a huge yearning for consolation and hope in the heart of our people.
We are especially mindful in 2020 of those grieving families, who, because of restrictions, have been unable to experience the customary spiritual and community supports which are so much part of our Irish tradition.
On 1 November at 3.00pm the bishops and priests of Ireland will lead a short service of prayer to dedicate the month of November to ‘Remembrance of the Dead and Prayer for the Bereaved’. We invite the whole country to unite in this moment which will be followed by parish liturgies throughout the month of November, reaching out as much as possible to those who cannot be physically present.
Join us in the church (space permitting) or online via our “Live Broadcast” page on our parish website.
Earlier this year, in response to the spiritual needs of the clergy and the faithful during the ongoing scourge of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Holy See’s Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments released the text of a special Mass, entitled “In Time of Pandemic.”
In our parish, we plan to celebrate that Mass each Thursday at 7.30pm.
Think You Might be Called to Priesthood?
A “Come and See Evening” will take place on Monday 23rd November in Armagh for those who are thinking about Diocesan Priesthood. It will be an opportunity for men (18 years and older) to come together, to reflect more on the call to Priesthood in the Archdiocese of Armagh.
Those who join for the evening will have an opportunity to hear a young priest share something of his story and they will be able to ask questions and join for worship and prayer.
Anyone who may be interested in joining is asked to contact their local priest or you can contact the Diocesan Vocations Director at pmcanenly21@gmail.com or call Fr Peter at 028 37522802
FACE MASKS / COVERINGS
Under current government guidelines it is COMPULSORY to use face masks/coverings when entering & exiting the church. It continues to be STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that these should remain in place while in the church.
Please keep your face covering on as you approach for Holy Communion, receive the Host on your hand, step to the marked areas to the side, remove your covering using the ear loop, consume the Host, then reattach your face covering. Please use the hand sanitizer as you return to your seat.
For those wearing face coverings, here are some tips from the CDC in the US.
Bishop Michael Router invites people to reach out to the elderly especially those in Nursing Care Homes
· “Nursing homes should be prioritised by the State to ensure that they have the personnel and equipment necessary to deal with the current Covid-19 crisis.”
Bishop Michael Router, Chair of the Council for Healthcare of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, is asking people to reach out to the elderly as we enter a new phase of Covid-19 restrictions.
Bishop Router said: “Today’s news is a sad reminder that our elderly parents, grandparents and relatives are amongst the most vulnerable during this pandemic. As society begins a new phase of Covid-19 restrictions I am encouraging people to reach out to support and care for our elderly. As a group that can sometimes be neglected they have borne the brunt of this pandemic’s wide ranging effects.
“Many older people have been cocooning for several months and these further restrictions are distressing for them especially as the Autumn evenings close in and the days shorten. Whilst we are all now facing new restrictions, there are small things that we can do to rise above our own concerns and make a contribution that will positively affect the lives of those most in need especially the elderly who live alone.
“Perhaps we could phone an elderly neighbour on a regular basis just for a short chat or to inquire if they needed something from the shops or the chemist. It might also be an opportunity to help and encourage those living alone to keep in touch with their faith and give them information on how they can tune in to the celebration of the Eucharist on a local church webcam, on TV or on local radio. Some advice on exercise for those who are able to walk unaided might be useful or information on who to reach out to if they feel anxious or alone….
It was hugely distressing in the early phase of the Covid-19 pandemic that so many vulnerable people died as a result of the spread of Covid-19 in nursing care homes. As we face a rise in coronavirus cases, we need to remind ourselves that every nursing care home resident is someone’s mother, father, grandparent, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, or friend. They have played their part over many decades in contributing to their communities and to the economy. The lives of those who live in such facilities should be valued, respected, and enhanced. Nursing homes should be prioritised by the State to ensure that they have the personnel and equipment necessary to deal with the current Covid-19 crisis. I also would encourage the management of nursing care homes and local clergy to continue to communicate about how best to look after the pastoral care of residents during this difficult time.
“Human life is sacred and precious from the child in the womb to the elderly person in care. We must do all that we can to protect life and to improve the quality of life for those who are particularly vulnerable.
“I wish to acknowledge once again the tremendous work of our doctors, nurses, administrators, chaplains and ancillary staff in healthcare facilities across the country.”
At the Service of Life
The statement from the Irish Bishops on issues such as assisted suicide, the relief of pain, compassionate care, etc. is now available to read on our website here:
At the Service of Life
WORLD MISSION SUNDAY – 18th OCTOBER 2020
World Mission Sunday is the Holy Father’s annual appeal so the life-giving work of missionaries can continue. This year celebrations will take place over the weekend of the 18th October.
During this time, all parishes worldwide will offer Mass collections and donations to aid the work of missionaries and mission overseas. World Mission Sunday takes place in every parish where the Church is present. Including, not only across Ireland and Europe, but also in poorer parishes in the developing world. This is why it is such a special moment because it allows all members of the universal Church family, regardless of location or background, to play a part in supporting each other.
Right now, missionaries desperately need our support. In many poorer parishes in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, missionaries are on the front line. They already do so much. Walking hand-in-hand with marginalised communities, long before and long after any emergency. Worryingly the pandemic means World Mission Sunday is in real jeopardy. Show missionaries you care by supporting World Mission Sunday. Your prayers and generosity will change lives.
You can always donate to this great work here:
ANNUAL BLESSING OF ROSES
DAY FOR LIFE 2020
Day for Life is celebrated annually by the Catholic Church in Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness of the meaning and value of human life at every stage and in every condition.
This year’s Day for Life will be celebrated in Ireland on Sunday 4 October and will focus on the theme: ‘Choose Life’.
You can find more information here:
https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2020/09/23/day-for-life-2020-choose-life/
CELEBRATING CONFIRMATION ON SATURDAY
Just a reminder for those celebrating the Sacrament of Confirmation tomorrow:
To adhere with current COVID 19 guidelines the numbers attending are restricted to immediate family members only (i.e. the child, any siblings of the child, and the child’s parents).
Families must sit together in designated seats and those attending are strongly recommended to wear face coverings. Children under the age of 13 and those with the usual exemptions are not required to wear face coverings.
Due to safeguarding concerns, no photography or videography by families is permitted in the church.
For relatives who would like to join us online for the Mass at 11am, it can be watched live here:
Live Broadcast
Let’s all remember the children in our prayers.
Please pray for all of our children from Rathore who celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation on Saturday, October 3rd.
MASS ON SATURDAY MORNING THIS WEEK (October 3rd)
Just a reminder that with the celebration of Confirmation for our Rathore children at 11am on Saturday, the daily Mass on Saturday will be at 10am (and not 10.30am)
MISSION MONTH
October is Mission Month, a month where we are called to support and pray with and for our missionaries. Ireland has a long history of missionaries serving in the most deprived parts of the world and this tradition continues today with Irish missionaries working in many developing countries as well as in the developed world with projects that support and enable disadvantaged communities.
During this month, parishioners are encouraged to pray for & support our missionaries abroad and those discerning the vocation to mission.
October 1st, is the feast of St Therese of Lisieux – Patron of the Missions and of Missionaries – Through her intercession we pray for the protection of all Missionaries during this time of Pandemic.
Saturday 26th September 2020
Just a reminder that, due to the celebration of First Holy Communion, our Saturday morning Mass this week will be at 10am.
From Archbishop Eamon:
OCTOBER FAMILY ROSARY CRUSADE AGAINST COVID
Dear brothers and sisters,
I invite you to join with families all over Ireland this October in praying together the Rosary, or even a decade of the Rosary, in your homes each day for God’s protection during this time of coronavirus.
These past six months have reminded us of the importance of the “domestic Church” – the Church of the sitting room and kitchen – the Church that meets every time a family stands or kneels down, or sits down to pray together!
It has also helped us realise how important is the vocation of parents to be the primary teachers and leaders of their children in faith and prayer.
That is why I am calling for a “Family Rosary Crusade against Covid” during October – encouraging you to pray the Rosary, or even a decade of the Rosary, each day during the month of October. Pray for your own family and loved ones and for all those whose health or livelihood is being seriously impacted by the coronavirus crisis.
Spread the word online using the #FamilyRosaryCrusade or #OctoberFamilyRosary and feel free to send in a picture with this hashtag or a short sound clip of your family saying a “Hail Mary”, “Our Father” or “Glory Be”!
I was inspired to make this call during a visit to the Missionaries of Charity here in Armagh who reminded me of what Mother Teresa, St Teresa of Calcutta, once said:
“Cling to the Rosary as the creeper clings to the tree – for without Our Lady we cannot stand”.
God bless you all
Eamon Martin
Archbishop of Armagh
Know someone studying at Queen’s University, Belfast?
The Catholic Chaplaincy at Queen’s reopens on Monday 21 September. Their liturgies, faith events and social gatherings are popular with students and alumni. They have a range of groups and societies whose activities appeal to a wide range of interests. Their Chapel, Food Bar and study space are open throughout the academic year. Wherever you are on your faith journey, know that they are here for you. For more visit qubcatholic.org or drop by for a coffee and chat at 28 Elmwood Avenue, Belfast.
CONFIRMATION THIS EVENING AT 5pm
For this evening’s celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation, please bear in mind that attendance is limited to the child, their sponsor and the child’s parents.
In line with Executive and diocesan communication, we are formally recommending and encouraging the use of face coverings at all services of worship, including Confirmation. Please bring a face covering with you and wear it at all times in the church. Children under 13 years of age are currently exempt from wearing a face covering.
In addition, with safeguarding in mind, it is not permitted to take photos or videos of any kind during the celebration.
Vigil for the Deceased for Mrs. Anne Quinn (née Queenie McConville) Tonight at 8.30pm
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner.
However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online at 8.30pm tonight for the Vigil for the Deceased for Mrs. Anne Quinn (née Queenie McConville)
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
Church leaders urge worshippers to wear face coverings to reduce the spread of coronavirus
The following statement has been issued by the Roman Catholic and Church of Ireland Primates of All Ireland, the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, and the President of the Methodist Church in Ireland:
At this time, both in Northern Ireland and in the Republic of Ireland, the governments have not formally made mandatory the wearing of face coverings at services of worship. This is, in part, due to the fact that as churches we are committed to maintaining 2 metre physical distancing between household groups and strict adherence to all government guidance on hand hygiene, cleaning, ventilation etc.
It, however, remains our responsibility to ensure that our services of worship are safe places for all who join with us. It has become increasingly clear that the wearing of face coverings, in conjunction with hand washing etc., is likely to reduce the spread of coronavirus, thus helping to protect others. Their use is therefore one way in which we can evidence protection for the most vulnerable, support for our health workers, and practical love for our neighbours.
Following further recent consultations with public health authorities, we join with Christian church leaders all over this island in formally recommending and encouraging the use of face coverings at all services of worship, along with the ongoing maintenance of 2 metre physical distancing, from Sunday 30 August 2020, and earlier if practicable.
We understand that some people are exempted from the wearing of face coverings, as outlined in the two jurisdictions.
We also recognise that whilst it may not be appropriate for those who are leading from the front during worship, including preaching, to wear face coverings, they should at all times continue to maintain at least 2 metre physical distancing from one another, and 4 metre physical distancing from the front row of the congregation.
The Most Revd Eamon Martin
Roman Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland
The Most Revd John McDowell
Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland
The Rt Revd Dr David Bruce
Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland
The Revd Dr Tom McKnight
President of the Methodist Church in Ireland
Tuesday 18th August – 4.41pm: Our parish livestream is now back online.
Tuesday 18th August:
Our livestream is currently offline. It’s been reported to our service provider.
FACE COVERINGS WHILE IN THE CHURCH
While they are not compulsory at this time, parishioners are reminded that some form of face covering is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED in indoor settings (including churches.) & we are all encouraged to make use of one, for everyone’s safety.
Novena to Our Lady of the Assumption
On Friday August 7th, we begin our annual Novena to Our Lady of the Assumption, patroness of our parish church. The Novena prayer will be prayed at all our Masses from then until August 15th.
You’ll find the prayer here:
Novena to Our Lady of the Assumption
Know someone aged 16-35? Then this just might be for them!
Youth 2000 is an international spiritual initiative established to draw young people to a deep and lasting union with Jesus Christ, placing the Eucharist- “the source and summit of the Christian life”-at the centre of its mission.
PRAY – SERVE – GIVE – EVANGELISE – GROW
For more on Youth 2000, visit https://www.youth2000.org/join
Killeavy Old Churches & St Moninna‘s Well
In the second video from Upper Killeavy, Tomaí Ó Conghaile a native of the parish who now lives in Brussels sings Amhran na Craoibhe (Song of the Branch) which recounts how pilgrims on the Pattern day of St. Monnina walked up to the well & tied ribbons and shells to the tree beside the well. The pilgrims would have carried these shells up the ancient path on long sticks.
AN INSPIRING JOURNEY
Compiled by our very own Srs. Marie & Rita, here’s a short video about their congregation – Poor Servants of the Mother of God – and its foundress, Frances Margaret Taylor.
Find out more here: https://www.poorservants.org/
“I WAS SICK AND YOU VISITED ME” –
HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY TO RESUME ROUTINE VISITS
On behalf of the Chaplaincy Teams across the Southern Trust, we are delighted to say that routine visitation of wards by chaplains will re-commence from Monday July 20th. Emergency on-call cover continued to remain in place throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and returning to wards for more routine visits is an important step forward at this time. As you can imagine, it will be a gradual and tentative re-engagement as we encounter the “new normal” in hospitals. It is a very changed environment into which we step. For example, given the visiting restrictions now in place, we will be avoiding visiting hours as only one nominated person can visit a patient at a time.
While visits by the Chaplaincy Teams are permitted to resume, visits by parish clergy / ministers are not yet permitted by the Southern Trust in their hospitals. This is due to the strict limits on visitor numbers and infection prevention & control procedures.
If you know a family member who is in hospital and would like a visit from the Chaplaincy Team, please ask them to consent to the visit when asked by the nursing staff. Alternatively, a member of their family can ask the hospital to call us.
On behalf of the Chaplaincy Teams across the Trust, we are deeply grateful for your support in so many ways. We know you join with us in continuing to pray in a special way for those who are sick at this time and those who care for them.
Fr. Damien
Daisy Hill Chaplaincy Team
UPDATED GUIDANCE
RE THE CELEBRATION OF BAPTISMS
PREPARING FOR CONFIRMATION
As we prepare to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation next month, our diocese has provided some resources to help our families prepare for the sacrament of Confirmation. These resources complement the wonderful preparation that our schools already do.
There are 5 units in all and you’ll find the first one here:
https://www.armaghprays.com/confirmation-programme
A “Thank You” from Tanzania!
Our Parish Apostolic Mission Group recently made a donation to the Rosminian Health Centre in Kwalukonge in Tanzania. Fr. Damien visited there in 2011.
Here’s a short clip form Fr. Ambrose speaking about the great work that the Health Centre does:
And here are some photos from the Centre:
Mass for the Sick – July 11th 2020
Here is our latest Mass for the Sick, celebrated in the chapel in Daisy Hill Hospital. If you know anyone sick in hospital or at home, please share it with them.
“OPEN DOORS” PRAYER DIARY
If you’d like to pray for our Christian brothers and sisters around the world who are being persecuted for their faith, why not add a prayer from this diary to your daily prayers?
You can download the diary as a PDF here:
Open Doors Prayer Diary Jul/Aug 2020
Towards Peace Spiritual Support Service
Towards Peace is a service offering spiritual support for anybody who has been abused, physically emotionally, sexually, spiritually, in a religious/church environment.
Towards Peace was established in October 2014 by the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference and is now co-funded by the IEC and AMRI (the Association of Leaders of Missionary & Religious of Ireland.)
It is a pathway, a safe space where people who have been hurt can connect with their own spirituality, their sense of God and their own journey Towards Peace. The service is free and is also available to the families of those who have been affected.
Towards Peace understands spirituality as a way of being in, and relating to the world, connected to God and to ones deepest self. Through one to one meetings with a trained and qualified spiritual companion, Towards Peace offers safe spaces for people to attend to their own spiritual life.
Towards Peace continues to operate during the current restrictions as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. While, face to face meetings are on hold for the moment, should you wish to access the Service via telephone or SKYPE, or just seek further information, please do not hesitate to contact the office on 00353-86-7710533.
Office hours are Monday and Tuesday 9am- 4pm Wednesday 9am – 12noon.
An Invitation
Sr. Marie & Sr. Rita put together this short video as an invitation for us in this time of strangeness.
MASS FOR THE SICK FROM DAISY HILL HOSPITAL
CALL IN AND LISTEN TO MASS
From today, we’re introducing a way that parishioners can call in and listen to Mass being celebrated each day in our church.
Hopefully, this will especially be of benefit to those who cannot attend Mass in person and who cannot join us online.
If you know of anyone who could avail of this service, details on how to access this service can be obtained from any member of the parish team or the parish office.
New Sunday Mass Times from This Weekend
(July 4th – 5th)
Just a reminder of our revised Sunday Mass schedule for July, beginning this weekend.
You’ll see that to help facilitate social distancing and manage numbers at Mass, we’ve added two extra Masses – 8pm Saturday & 5.30pm Sunday. We’ve also moved the 12 noon Mass to 12.30pm (to facilitate cleaning of the church).
Given that the Sunday obligation remains suspended, you may wish to consider attending a weekday Mass in place of Sunday. If you have already attended a weekday Mass this week, we invite you to consider not coming to Mass on Sunday and thus allowing more space for those who have yet to return to Mass.
As for every Mass, those most at risk should not present at the church.
EVENING PRAYER – SUNDAYS AT 7PM
Come join us online or in person for Evening Prayer of the Church every Sunday at 7pm.
HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY COVER
Our parish has been continuing to provide 24/7 hospital chaplaincy cover for Daisy Hill throughout this pandemic.
While we are not permitted to resume routine visits just yet, we remain available for emergency calls. If needed for an emergency, just call the hospital and ask to speak to the chaplain on call.
Two Additional Weekday Masses in July
Just a reminder that we’ve added two extra evening Masses for the month of July. This helps us spread the numbers across the week and could help avoid not being able to admit everyone on Sundays.
Given that the Sunday obligation remains suspended, we encourage you to consider attending a weekday Mass in place of Sunday.
With help from the parish team tonight, the church is now ready for a return to public worship from tomorrow (Monday 29th June).
You’ll see some additional changes to what has already been in place for a few weeks now.
Let’s remember to act justly, love tenderly and walk humbly as the Lord leads us into this “new normal”.
AS WE RE-OPEN FOR PUBLIC WORSHIP FROM MONDAY JUNE 29th
In order to ensure appropriate social distancing, we will continue to observe the 2 metre rule, and as such the number of persons admitted to the church will have to be limited.
It has been calculated that only one pew in every three will be usable & only two people admitted to each pew (unless they are part of the same household). We realise that this may cause some people to be refused admission, possibly including some of our most regular attendees, & apologise for that fact. We are exploring additional ways of enabling those who cannot gain admission to follow the Mass. All Masses will continue to be live-streamed via our parish website.
Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. Vitalijus Zabilavicius at 8pm Sunday
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner.
However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online at 8pm on Sunday 28th June for the Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. Vitalijus Zabilavicius.
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
CHANGE TO ROSARY SCHEDULE
From Monday, June 29th, we’ll be praying the Rosary at 7pm Monday – Friday only via our “Live Broadcast” page on our parish website (http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/)
Evening Prayer will no longer be part of that schedule.
Revised Opening Times
As we gradually move into a return to public worship, it is necessary to sanitise the church after every celebration.
With that in mind, we’re amending our opening times for private prayer as below, effective from Monday, June 29th.
These times will be reviewed at the end of July.
COVID-19 Support Line for Older People
ALONE manage a national support line and additional supports for older people who have concerns or are facing difficulties relating to the outbreak of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Professional staff are available to answer queries and give advice and reassurance where necessary. The support line is open seven days a week, 8am – 8pm, by calling 0818 222 024.
Church Closed on Friday June 26th
To facilitate a deep clean ahead of a planned resumption of public worship next week, the parish church will be closed to the public on Friday, June 26th. It will re-open from 11am on Saturday.
VIRTUAL PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK SHRINE WITH SJYPS
A Virtual Pilgrimage will take place on Sunday, 28 June 2020 which will include the Rosary at 2.30 pm, Holy Mass at 3.00 pm, followed by Benediction. The ceremonies will be streamed live on the Knock website: www.knockshrine.ie. The Celebrant will be Fr. Richard Gibbons, PP, Rector at Knock Shrine. In advance of the day, pilgrims will be able to place their petitions online on the Knock Shrine website, and these will be placed on the altar for the Mass.
This year marks the 125th Anniversary of the founding of St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society by Olivia Mary Taaffe when she financially assisted the education of one Seminarian to the Priesthood. Since that first year (1895) the Society has assisted the education of thousands of men to the Priesthood. Over the last 10 years the Society has financially assisted 7320 Seminarians and 1449 Priestly Ordinations.
Time to Reflect & Prepare
This year is one of ‘Reflection and Prayer’ in the Archdiocese of Armagh. We have had time to reflect on where we are as a Church community and on what direction we should take in the future. This present pandemic has given us an insight into just how challenging that future might be.
Bishop Michael invites us all to take 10 mins to watch this video and then to reflect on the questions posed towards the end of the clip.
Our responses can be emailed to yprarmagh@gmail.com
REVISED MASS TIMES
FROM JUNE 29TH UNTIL END OF JULY
In advance of the proposed restoration of public worship on Mon 29th June, it should be noted firstly that the dispensation from attending Sunday Mass remains in place & those most at risk should not present at the church.
In order that appropriate social distancing (currently 2 metres, in ALL directions) can be observed, the number of persons admitted to the church will have to be limited. It has been calculated that only one pew in every three will be usable & only two people admitted to each pew (unless they are part of the same household).
We realise that this may cause some people to be refused admission, possibly including some of our most regular attendees, & apologise for that fact. We are exploring additional ways of enabling those who cannot gain admission to follow the Mass outside of the church.
In order that as many parishioners as possible would be accommodated our Mass schedule will be expanded as per the poster here. This schedule will be reviewed at the end of July.
Please note that all of these revised arrangements remain under review and dependant on Government / Health Authority advice. Please continue to visit our Facebook page and parish website for updates.
Faithful invited to online Adoremus 2020 pilgrimage
Adoremus 2020, a joint initiative between the National Apostolate of Eucharistic Adoration and the Bishops’ Conference, was due to be held in Knock on 19 and 20 June 2020 and would have been focussed on preparing for the International Eucharistic Congress in Budapest. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, Adoremus 2020 in Knock has been cancelled and the Eucharistic Congress has been postponed until 2021. Adoremus will, however, take place online from 2.00pm this Saturday 20 June.
A number of speakers, including Sr Virginia Joy of the Sisters of Life New York, Archbishop Eamon Martin and Bishop Kevin Doran have recorded talks and prayer moments to allow us to join together virtually.
Adoremus will conclude with Rosary and the celebration Mass and Benediction by Father Richard Gibbons, PP of Knock. See further information below.
New Parish “Covid-19 Support” Subgroup Meets
As part of our continuing preparations for an eventual return to Mass with a congregation present, our new “Covid-19 Support” subgroup met this week. This subgroup works alongside the new “Covid-19 Liturgy” subgroup and is tasked to look at stewarding, cleaning, seating, etc. – anything that might help us all to stay safe and pray safe.
The group will forward its thoughts to the Parish Pastoral Council to be reflected upon.
New Parish “Covid-19 Liturgy” Subgroup Meets
This week, our new “Covid-19 Liturgy” group met to begin looking at the celebration of Mass again with a congregation present.
We walked through the different parts of the Mass – Introductory Rites, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist, Holy Communion, Concluding Rites – to see what practical adjustments will be needed to how we celebrate together, without compromising the integrity of the Mass and helping us all to stay safe and pray safe.
The group will forward its thoughts to the Parish Pastoral Council to be reflected upon.
PIONEER TOTAL ABSTINENCE SOCIETY
Every year within the Archdiocese of Armagh we hold a special event in honour of Sacred Heart of Jesus Patron of Pioneer Total Abstinence. This year we are continuing with this tradition online.
Thursday 18th June Parish
Tynan and Middletown will be holding there twenty four hour vigil in St John’s Church Middletown beginning that evening with Mass at 7.30pm. Exposition of Blessed Sacrament begins after Mass right through to Mass at 7.30pm on Friday 19th June 2020.
At Midnight on Thursday into Friday Morning Most Rev Micheal Router Auxiliary Bishop will celebrate Mass from St John’s Middletown. The media link for this Church is via MCN Media and everyone is asked to join from their own home.
FRIDAY 19TH JUNE 2020
To celebrate the Feast of Sacred Heart Mass will be celebrated at 10.30am from St Eunan’s Cathedral Letterkenny Co Donegal by Most Reverend Alan Mc Guckian SJ Bishop Diocese of Raphoe. It is available on following outlets:
RTE NEWS NOW
SAORVIEW 21
SKY 521
VIRGIN MEDIA 200
For Sunday June 14th
Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. Peter Connolly Tonight at 8pm
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner.
However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online at 8pm tonight for the Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. Peter Connolly, Glenvale Crescent.
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
Returning to Public Celebration of Mass & The Sacraments
In light of the publication of the Framework Document for a return to the public celebration of Mass and the Sacraments, the parish team and the Parish Pastoral Council are meeting today (Wednesday 11th June) (via conference calls) to begin reviewing the framework with a view to being ready for when public celebration of Mass and the Sacraments returns.
Getting Married in the Catholic Church?
If you need some help with preparing for getting married in the Catholic Church, our parish website has some concise information which can help. Just click here:
Getting Married in the Catholic Church
Please note that we have no update yet on when the celebration of Marriage (with a congregation) will be allowed to resume in our churches. As soon as know more, it will be posted here.
Visiting the Statue of St. Anthony
As we celebrate the annual Novena to St. Anthony until June 13th, we’ve temporarily opened the side aisle so visitors to our church can access our statue of St. Anthony.
If you wish to visit the statue please do so as you leave the church so as to maintain the one-way system. Please do not touch the statue at any stage.
Thanks to our parishioner who generously donated the St. Anthony lilies for the statue.
Stay safe & pray safe.
Vigil for the Deceased
Vigil for the Deceased for the repose of the soul of Maura Turley (nee Mckeown) will be celebrated from our church, via webcam, this evening (Wed.) at 8pm.
Give Us This Day – June 2020
Give Us This Day is an invitation to pray daily. Whether you have five minutes or a half hour, Give Us This Day supports your desire to pray with:
– Daily inspiration from the lives of saintly witnesses
– Insightful, relevant reflections on Scripture
– Simplified daily prayer for morning and evening
In this time of pandemic, the publishers are kindly providing the June 2020 edition for free.
You can download it here:
GUTD_June 2020
Vigil for the Deceased
for Mr. P.D. Farrell Tonight at 8pm
In these days, it’s difficult not to be able to gather together in person to mourn the death of a loved one, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a parishioner.
However, we can gather together in prayer, no matter where we might be.
So please join us online at 8pm tonight for the Vigil for the Deceased for Mr. P.D. Farrell, Ardgreen Drive, who died today.
Join us online here: http://www.newrymiddlekilleavy.com/index.php/live-broadcast/
CAN YOU HELP US STAY SAFE SO WE CAN PRAY SAFE?
At the moment, Frs. Liam & Damien and Srs. Marie & Rita clean the church each evening. Although there is no indication yet of when churches will be re-opened for public worship, when this does happen it will be necessary to clean the church between each Mass, in the interests of infection control.
Your support with this would be greatly appreciated. This will call for a real team effort, especially to clean the church between Masses on a Sunday.
If you can spare even a little time, please leave your name
– with a member of the Parish Team,
– via email to assumptionnewry@gmail.com,
– by phone at 02830252459.
Thank you again for the continued support.
ANNUAL NOVENA TO ST. ANTHONY
Our annual Novena will take place in our church from 5th – 13th June. The Novena prayers will be recited at all Masses during that time.
The traditional blessing of lilies will take place via the live broadcast on 13th June at our 10.30am and 6.15pm Masses that day. (Please do not bring lilies to the church at this time).
You can find the Novena Prayers here: Novena Prayers
Because of this Novena, our Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help will not take place on Wed. 10th June.
WHY NOT JOIN POPE FRANCIS IN PRAYING THE ROSARY THIS SATURDAY AT 4.30PM (IRISH TIME)?
“Devoted and with one accord to prayer, together with Mary (cf. Acts 1:14)”.
On this theme Pope Francis will lead the recitation of the Rosary on Saturday 30 May, joining the Marian Shrines of the world which, due to the health emergency, have had to interrupt their normal activities and pilgrimages.
The Pope will once again be close to humanity in prayer, to ask the Virgin Mary for help amid the pandemic. The prayer will be broadcast live to the world from the Grotto of Lourdes in the Vatican Gardens at 5.30.pm Rome time.
Read more here:
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020-05/pope-to-pray-the-rosary-along-with-shrines-of-world-covid19.html?fbclid=IwAR1cyLCvDYXkriIVJK6TiFZqemgFCLQ3JQjwzLCct44FMy5nUA2X2F7ETms
Pentecost Message from Archbishop Eamon
to Priests, Religious and Faithful
This weekend we celebrate Pentecost – the great feast of the Holy Spirit and the “birthday” of the Christian Church. I find it sad and disappointing that we have now come the whole way through the Easter season and we are still unable to gather physically for Mass and the sacraments.
We have all been making great sacrifices to protect health and life and to support the Common Good. But we miss meeting up as a parish community. Thankfully our sacrifices are bearing fruit and the number of deaths and ICU admissions from Covid-19 is continuing to decline.
I want to thank you for the work you are doing at local level to plan for the full “re-opening” of parish life and worship. Please work closely with your priests so that your parish stands ready to respond quickly when the public health authorities tell us it is safe to begin gathering together again for Mass inside our churches.
Thanks also for your response to my call for ideas and questions to help draft a National Framework Document to maximize consistency across the dioceses and parishes of Ireland. At the Standing Committee of the Bishops’ Conference yesterday (meeting for the first time over video call) the Bishops agreed to refine this framework further to include a helpful checklist for parish priests and Covid-19 Parish Support Teams on physical distancing and hygiene. This will help you evaluate progress made to date and guide any necessary improvements in practice within your parish.
The Framework Document will also offer guidance on a number of important liturgical issues which many of you have been enquiring about e.g. the distribution and reception of Holy Communion; advice for con-celebrants, deacons, altar servers; best practice for extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist and others who assist at Mass. At the forthcoming Episcopal Conference meeting in early June the Bishops will consider extending the current suspension of the Sunday obligation, the Sign of Peace and use of Holy Water fonts. We will also discuss the celebration of Baptism, Marriage and the Sacrament of Reconciliation in the context of any ongoing restrictions.
It is hoped that the National Framework Document will help guide our ongoing preparations at parish and diocesan level. It will also support our continuing engagement with government and public health authorities – north and south – in making a case for the early resumption of the public celebration of Mass and the Sacraments in a measured and safe way.
God bless you and your families this Pentecost weekend. Please Stay safe. And pray safe!
Archbishop Eamon
Archbishop Eamon Martin invites grandparents and grandchildren to pray for each other, to share and record their ‘2020 vision’ stories
Archbishop Eamon Martin has welcomed Pope Francis’ message for the 54th World Day of Social Communications which will be celebrated on Sunday – the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord. The theme of Pope Francis’ annual message for this year reflects on the power of storytelling: ‘That you may tell your children and grandchildren’ (Ex 10:2).
Archbishop Eamon said, “During this time of COVID19 restrictions, many grandparents have mentioned how much they miss the physical company and affection of their grandchildren – especially their hugs! The relationship between the generations is a favourite theme of Pope Francis which he reiterates in his communications message for 2020. The Pope often speaks of the bond that exists between younger and older people and for his communications message this year he particular focuses on the importance of sharing stories across the generations.
“The theme of Pope Francis’ message reminds us that ‘from childhood we hunger for stories … stories influence our lives … [although] not all stories are good stories’. By choosing his theme from the Book of Exodus, the Holy Father underpins how memories and storytelling are precious in our lives and in all the best communications. The telling of stories – inspired by faith, hope and love – is also hugely significant in the handing on of faith from generation to generation.
“When I attended the Youth Synod in Rome in 2018, Pope Francis surprised us by hosting an evening when young and older people who came together to learn from each other and at which he launched Sharing the Wisdom of Time. In the preface he says ‘the Lord wants me to say: that there should be an alliance between the young and old people.’ The Pope explains that this cooperation entails sharing experiences of older people, heeding their advice and creating a strong bond with the new generations who are hungry for guidance and support as they prepare for their future. This spirit is exemplified in this year’s communications message:
‘In an age when falsification is increasingly sophisticated … we need wisdom to be able to welcome and create beautiful, true and good stories. We need courage to reject false and evil stories. We need patience and discernment to rediscover stories that help us not to lose the thread amid today’s many troubles. We need stories that reveal who we truly are, also in the untold heroism of everyday life.’
“Encouraged by Pope Francis, this weekend I invite grandparents and grandchildren to share their own stories – over the phone, on social media or video call – of how they are coping during this coronavirus crisis. Perhaps the young people could record and capture this moment for the future. In years to come, when we look back on 2020, we will be sharing with future generations the story of how the world had to pause, to stand still. Hopefully we will be able to relate the things that we learned from this pandemic experience. Perhaps we will speak of ‘2020 vision’ in a new way, that 2020 was the year we learned to appreciate more each other – our family, our elderly, our friendships, our front-line workers, our clergy – and all because we had to spend some time apart.
Archbishop Eamon concluded, “I strongly encourage everyone to read this year’s uplifting Communications Day message by Pope Francis, and to reflect on the power of ‘the story’ in our own journey, and on those around us, especially during this restricted period. As Pope Francis says, ‘The history of Christ is not a legacy from the past; it is our story, and always timely. It shows us that God was so deeply concerned for mankind, for our flesh and our history, to the point that he became man, flesh and history. It also tells us that no human stories are insignificant or paltry.’”
Message of Pope Francis
for World Communications Day 2020
Download here:
Message of Pope Francis for World Communications Day 2020
Re-Opening our Church for Private Prayer
A short introduction about what’s changed in the church building as we prepare to reopen for private prayer on Wednesday 20th May 2020.
Annual Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock
The Annual Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock will be celebrated on May 31st, Pentecost Sunday. This year due to COVID-19 virus, the Pilgrimage will be celebrated online, from Knock Shrine beginning at 2.30pm, with the recitation of the Rosary, a video greeting from the Archbishop at 2.55pm and the celebration of the Pilgrimage Mass at 3pm.
To help prepare for our Pilgrimage an online Novena will be available daily from 12 noon on the Diocesan website and Facebook page from nine different shrines and grottoes of Our Lady in the Archdiocese:
Saturday May 23rd 1st Day of the Novena Armagh Cathedral
Sunday May 24th 2nd Day of the Novena Cooley Parish
Monday May 25th 3rd Day of the Novena Edendork
Tuesday May 26th 4th Day of the Novena Derrynoose
Wednesday May 27th 5th day of the Novena Killeeshil
Thursday May 28th 6th Day of the Novena Dundalk
Friday May 29th 7th Day of the Novena Coalisland
Saturday May 30th 8th Day of the Novena Cuan Mhuire
Sunday May 31st 9th Day of the Novena Drogheda
Message from Trócaire
Every year Trócaire asks for your help during Lent to fund lifesaving programmes around the world. This year, of course, it was not possible to return Trócaire boxes through schools or parishes in the usual way. This is the worst possible timing coming just as the world’s poorest people need us most. Therefore, Trócaire are appealing to you to return your Lenten donation. Simply count or estimate what is in your box and donate in the following ways:
1. Online at www.trocaire.org
2. By phone: 1850 408 408 (ROI) or 0800 912 1200 (NI)
3. By post to Trócaire, Maynooth, Co. Kildare (ROI) or Trócaire, 10 King Street, Belfast, BT1 6AD (NI)
The contents of each and every Trócaire box, no matter how small, come together to make a significant difference. This virus knows no borders, but neither does our compassion.
May: The Month of Mary
Download as a PDF here:
May the Month of Mary
Sorrowful Mysteries – Colouring Sheet
Praying the Sorrowful Mysteries with the younger members of our parish family? Here’s a colouring sheet that might help. You can also download it here:
Rosary Colouring Sheet_Sorrowful Mysteries
CELEBRATION OF GRATITUDE & HOPE
Archbishop Eamon will lead a special Celebration of Gratitude and Hope in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh, this Sunday evening (May 10th) at 7.30pm, with music by Karl McGuckin & Malachi Cush.
The evening can be accessed by clicking any of the following links: (the Church Services TV link will probably be the most stable)
https://www.churchservices.tv/armaghcathedral
Cathedral Webcam
and also on the Archdiocese of Armagh Facebook Page.
Open Doors Prayer Diary
Every couple of months, we leave copies of Open Doors’ Prayer Diary at the back of our church as an encouragement for us all to pray for those of our brothers and sisters in Christ who are being persecuted around the world for their belief in Jesus.
You’ll find the latest edition (May / June 2020) of the diary to download here:
Open Doors Prayer Diary_MayJune 2020
You can also download their latest magazine here:
‘Hold on to Hope’ – Archbishop Eamon offers a message to Leaving Cert and A-Level pupils
Archbishop Eamon offers a message of encouragement to all Leaving Cert and A-Level pupils during the current Covid-19 pandemic. He achknowledges their worries and concerns in the beautiful video below. He assures them that they will not be robbed of their hopes and dreams and offers his continued support and prayers in the coming days, weeks and months.
Give Us This Day – May 2020
Give Us This Day is an invitation to pray daily. Whether you have five minutes or a half hour, Give Us This Day supports your desire to pray with:
– Daily inspiration from the lives of saintly witnesses
– Insightful, relevant reflections on Scripture
– Simplified daily prayer for morning and evening
In this time of pandemic, the publishers are kindly providing the May 2020 edition for free.
Please download it here:
Give Us This Day_May 2020
Chaplaincy in Daisy Hill Hospital
If you or a family member are in Daisy Hill Hospital, or indeed if you work in the hospital, there is a chaplaincy phone service available daily from 10am – 12 noon & 2-4pm
Just dial the numbers below to speak with a chaplain.
While we’re not doing routine visits at the moment, we’re still around. Chaplains are still available for emergency or urgent visits.
To call a chaplain at any time, just ring 028-30835000 (Daisy Hill) and ask for the chaplain on call.
“Later I Will Confess, But Forgive Me Now”
In these days, it’s not really feasible to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation safely. But let us not despair of God’s mercy.
Recently, Pope Francis reminded us of an outstanding principle of the Church – perfect contrition. The Pope said:
“You do what the Catechism says. It is very clear: if you do not find a priest to hear your confession, speak to God, he is your father, and tell him the truth. Enumerate your sins, ask the Lord for forgiveness with all your heart, and make an act of contrition. Promise him: ‘Later I will confess, but forgive me now.’ And immediately you will return to the grace of God.”
In that spirit, we celebrated a special Liturgy of Reconciliation this week. It runs for 25 mins and will take you through an examination of conscience and an Act of Perfect Contrition.
You can watch the Liturgy here:
Stations of the Cross
Using the images from our own parish church, please find below a video of the Stations of the Cross.
Here’s a short prayer resource which contains prayer guidance and brief Scriptural references as well as prayers for mercy, of confession, of intercession, for medical staff and carers and essential services, for our neighbours, Our Lord`s Prayer, and for our families and children.
View / download it here:
2020 Apr 05 – A Call to Pray on Palm Sunday in context of coronavirus
Give Us This Day – Free Resource for April
Give Us This Day is an invitation to pray daily.
Whether you have five minutes or a half hour, Give Us This Day supports your desire to pray with:
- Daily inspiration from the lives of saintly witnesses
Insightful, relevant reflections on Scripture
Simplified daily prayer for morning and evening
Give Us This Day is a monthly publication centered on the Word of God. Drawing inspiration from a multitude of voices, it provides a relevant and trustworthy understanding of Scripture.
They’ve made their April edition free – you can download it here:
It’s also available on the App Store & Google Play as “Give Us This Day” with free 60 day access.
More information here: Give Us This Day
The why and how of making a spiritual communion
(Article from “Our Sunday Visitor, www.osvnews.com)
Catholics across the world are experiencing an unexpected and unfortunate fast from the Eucharist, which comes in the wake of the novel coronavirus COVID-19. In many ways, the inability of many to receive holy Communion has become an unimaginable Lenten penance…
How are Catholics to make sense of this absence of public worship or reception of the body, blood, soul and divinity of our Lord? It might be most helpful to take a brief look at the situation of others, regular Catholic practice and then consider ways to make the best of the situation and continue growing in our relationship with the Lord given the present obstacles…
Read the full article here:
The Why & How of Making a Good Spiritual Communion
Download a two page guide here:
How to Make a Spiritual Communion_OSV
PLEASE NOTE
We are experiencing higher volumes than usual visiting our “Live Broadcast” of Masses.
If the broadcast is not working, please give it a minute or two and refresh the page.
If it is still not working, please try our page here:
https://www.mcnmedia.tv/camera/middle-killeavy
You can also find a list of other churches broadcasting throughout our diocese here:
https://www.armagharchdiocese.org/webcam-masses-in-the-archdiocese-of-armagh/
You will also find a wide range of churches online here:
Annual Novena to St. Joseph
Annual Novena to St Joseph, for the promotion of vocations to the priesthood, runs from 11th March to 19th March (Feast of St. Joseph.) Leaflets can be found at the church door. The Novena is easy to follow & can be prayed, in a few minutes, in the privacy of your own home.
You can download a PDF copy of the Novena here:
Here are scans of the Novena Prayers as well (click to enlarge):
Why not take the Short-Term Pledge as your Lenten Sacrifice
As part of its work for temperance and sobriety, the Pioneer Association has a Short-Term Pledge section for adults over the age of eighteen years. This enables a person who does not wish to make a life commitment to total abstinence to take a pledge for a limited period of time and make a worthwhile sacrifice. If you would like to take the pledge for the six weeks of Lent, please go online at www.pioneerassociation.ie and follow the links to join. A small fee applies if you wish to have the Pioneer emblem and the registration card.
Irish National Pilgrimage to 52nd International Eucharistic Congress, Budapest, 12 – 21 September
Join Bishop Kevin Doran on the Irish National Pilgrimage to the 52nd International Eucharistic Congress, Budapest from 12th – 21st September 2020. A Eucharistic Congress is a gathering of people every four years which aims to promote an awareness of the central place of the Eucharist in the life and mission of the Catholic Church; to help improve our understanding and celebration of the liturgy and to draw attention to the social dimension of the Eucharist. Be part of this unique event and re-live the atmosphere of the recent International Eucharistic Congress and World Meeting of Families held in Ireland, Cost: From €1,050 per person sharing. For more information see www.catholicbishops.ie To book https://www.joewalshtours.ie/holidays/pilgrimages-international-eucharistic-congress
Dromantine Summer Camp
Dromantine Summer Camp is now in its 51st year. The Camp runs during July and August. A week at Camp lasts from Sunday to Friday and offers a variety of activities in Faith, Sport and Entertainment, Guidance in life’s opportunities / challenges and input from FOA [Friends of Africa] Volunteers returning from their experience in Africa.
There are two weeks for BOYS : 26th – 31st of July and 2nd – 7th of August and two weeks for GIRLS: : 9th – 14th of August and 16th – 21st of August , 2020.
REGISTRATION has begun .You can find a link on our FACEBOOK page Dromantine Summer Camp or email us at: dromantinecards@sma.ie or Tel: 02830821224 .
COME AND BE PART OF CAMP 2020.
Anam Cara – Bereavement Information Evening – 26 February
Anam Cara Armagh the organisation that supports bereaved parents, is holding a Bereavement Information Evening on Wednesday 26th February at 7:20pm in the Armagh City Hotel, Armagh, BT60 4FR. This is a free event and open to all bereaved parents. As Anam Cara will need to confirm numbers for teas, coffees, etc, please RSVP to info@anamcara.ie before Tuesday 25th February or call 028 95213120.
Why support life? – 19 February
A round-table discussion on the future of the pro-life movement in Northern Ireland will take place in the Catholic Chaplaincy QUB. The panel, chaired by Brett Lockhart QC, features key figures in the pro-life movement including Dawn McAvoy, Dr Andrew Cupples, Patrick Gallagher, Kate Meenagh and Sarah Haire. If you are interested in learning more about the pro-life position from a variety of perspectives, this event is not to be missed. 28 Elmwood Avenue, Belfast on Wednesday 19 February at 7pm.
PSNI Recruitment
Archbishop Eamon Martin wishes to draw the attention of the Catholic community to the current PSNI recruitment campaign which runs until 25 February – information is available on website joinpsni.co.uk .
Archbishop Eamon says: “I encourage the very best of our young people to seriously consider a career in the police. Help to shape the future of policing here and serve your community with generosity, concern, respect and courage”.
Lectio Divina for Newcomers – Lent 2020
Introducing the practice of Lectio Divina. Reading, Recognising, Responding, Resting-in, and Reflecting on the Sunday Gospel. The Lenten series commences on Ash Wednesday 26th February and will run consecutively for the 6 weeks of Lent.
There will be a choice of 2 sessions, either Wednesday 26th February at 11.30am or Thursday 27th February at 8.15pm. Venue: Lectio Centre, 35-37 Dominic Street, Newry
To book a place please contact Joan- 028 302 62178 or email: lectiocentre35@gmail.com.
Day of Prayer for Survivors and Victims of Abuse
28 February
The annual Day of Prayer for Survivors and Victims of Abuse takes place on Friday 28 February. Prayers will be offered at Masses on that day for those who have been hurt by abuse in the Church. We are all asked to remember this intention in our private prayers also.
Married Couples
Do you want to improve the communication with your spouse? Do you feel lost, alone or bored in your marriage? Are you hurt, frustrated or angry with your spouse? Does talking about it only make it worse? The Retrouvaille programme can help marriages at all stages. Next programme starts 7th – 9th February 2020. For information contact Tony & Anne (01) 495 3536, Mike & Anne (01) 450 0922, text or call 086 413 5440, or email info@retrouvaille.ie or visit www.retrouvaille.ie.
SMA Retreat and Conference Centre, Dromantine – Days of Prayer
‘Introduction to Focusing’ led by Fr. Adrian Farrelly OP
Sat. 15th Feb. 9.30am – 5.00pm inc. Lunch – £30
LENTEN DAYS of Recollection ‘Lord, open my heart as wide as it can open’
led by Fr. Damian Bresnahan SMA
Sat. 14th March 9.30am – 5.00pm inc. Lunch – £25
‘Remember – you’re worth it!’
led by Fr. John Gallagher SMA
Sat. 28th March 9.30am – 5.00pm inc. Lunch – £25
Experience Monastic Life – St. Benedict’s Priory, Cobh, Co Cork
Monastic Day Retreat
Saturday 21st March, 9am-5pm. Talks on Monasticism & Monastic Saints. Donation only. Lunch Provided. All welcome.
Monastic Experience
16th – 18th April. Opportunity for Women discerning Religious Life to experience life in our monastery.
Contact: Mother Prioress, St. Benedict’s Priory, The Mount, Cobh, Co.Cork Tel 021 4811354
cobhtyburnconvent@gmail.com. Booking essential for both events as places are limited.
Second Armagh Diocesan Pilgrimage to Fatima 7 – 14 July 2020
The second Armagh Diocesan Pilgrimage to Fatima, led by Archbishop Eamon Martin, will take place from 7th July 2020 – 14th July 2020. Cost £719. For further details contact Maureen or Joe McLaughlin 028 9070 1606, 07745 093530 or 07711 808207.
Sólás – Volunteers needed
Volunteers needed: Sólás is a registered children’s charity which supports children with additional educational needs in primary schools across Northern Ireland. We are currently recruiting retired teachers and people with experience working in an educational setting to provide 1:1 or small group support to underachieving children in primary schools throughout N Ireland. One morning/week. Induction and training provided. For more information, please contact Kate on 02890247600 or progs@solasbt7.com. Your help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
EPIPHANY BLESSING OF A HOUSE
There is a tradition that on the Solemnity of the Epiphany, the initials C, M & B, along with the numerals of the current calendar year and a series of small crosses are chalked over the door of the family home to invoke God’s blessing throughout the coming year (see below). The initials refer to the names usually given to the three Wise Men: Caspar, Melchior and Balthazar, but can also be interpreted as “Christus mansionem benedicat” (Christ bless this house). Blessed chalk will be available after the Masses tomorrow for those who wish to participate in this tradition. The prayer below can be recited before/after the inscription.
Write this in chalk above the door to the family home: 20 + C + M + B + 20
Prayer for the Blessing
Bless, O Lord God almighty, this home, that in it there may be health, purity, the strength of victory, humility, goodness and mercy, the fulfillment of Thy law, the thanksgiving to God the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. And may this blessing remain upon this home and upon all who dwell herein. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Bambinelli Sunday
Use the prayer below to bless the Baby Jesus figure from your Christmas crib, then wrap it, place it under your Christmas Tree…
And on Christmas morning, let the first present you unwrap
be the Baby Jesus, the true reason for this season!
God, our Father
you so loved humankind
that you sent us your only Son Jesus,
born of the Virgin Mary,
to save us and lead us back to you.
We pray that with your Blessing
these images of Jesus,
who is about to come among us,
may be a sign of your presence and
love in our homes.
Good Father,
give your Blessing to us too,
to our parents, to our families and
to our friends.
Open our hearts,
so that we may be able to
receive Jesus in joy,
always do what he asks
and see him in all those
who are in need of our love.
We ask you this in the name of Jesus,
your beloved Son
who comes to give the world peace.
He lives and reigns forever and ever.
Amen.
(Pope Benedict XVI)
REVERSE ADVENT CALENDAR
As in previous years the Advent Scripture Reflection Group invites you to take part in a Reverse Advent Calendar by donating items that will be distributed to those in need in time for Christmas. A list of suggested items is available at the doors of the church. You can also download the list below (2 calendars per page so you can share the idea with someone else!). Thank you once again for your generosity.
Download the list here: Reverse Advent Calendar
Download Here: Blessing of a Crib
Download here (PDF): Blessing of a Christmas Tree
Archbishop Eamon Martin
launches Ireland’s most popular Advent Calendar
#ShareTheJourney #LivingAdvent
Archbishop Eamon Martin has today launched the 2019 online Advent Calendar, which will go live on www.catholicbishops.ie on the first Sunday of Advent, 1 December next.
Now in its sixth year, the popular online Advent Calendar offers resources for the parish, school and home which can be accessed behind a virtual door each day during the season of Advent. The content is aimed at assisting people to pray and to reflect on how best we can keep Christ at the centre of our Christmas preparations during this special liturgical season.
The unique interactive Advent Calendar has family prayers and suggestions for #LivingAdvent – acts of kindness or charity that all of us are encouraged to undertake during the month of December. The Calendar also shares tips on how families can care for creation, our common home, by having a more sustainable Christmas.
Welcoming this year’s Advent Calendar Archbishop Eamon said, “The season of Advent marks the beginning of the Catholic new year and the time of spiritual preparation for the Lord’s coming at Christmas. It is a time of waiting, conversion and hope. Advent also prepares us for the second coming of Christ at the end of time. As Christians, we must always be prepared for the coming of the Lord – ‘You must stand ready because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do no not expect’ [Mt 24:37-44].
“Preparation does not happen at once but over time and so each day of Advent allows us to reflect on the joy of the Gospel. Our online calendar is a helpful resource on this journey. By clicking on the virtual doors each of the days of Advent, we are inviting people to take just five minutes to find moments of peace and reflection on the meaning of Advent and Christmas amidst all the rush and busyness of life around us.”
“I particularly welcome the inclusion on this year’s calendar of some of the inspirational messages that Pope Francis gave to us this year in Christus vivit (Christ is alive), his post-synodal Apostolic Exhortation to young people. The message of Christ is alive is that Jesus is our hope and that he lives within us. The seasons of Advent and Christmas occur in the depth of winter reminding us that Christ was born to bring hope to a darkened world. As the prophet Isaiah said “the people that wait in darkness see a great light”. The inspiring messages that Pope Francis has for young people in Christus vivit also apply to all of us and to the young person inside us.”
Archbishop Eamon concluded, “I invite everyone during this Season of Advent to enjoy our online calendar. I ask that people would not just reflect on the content personally but share it with others on social media. At this busy time I encourage everyone to take a few moments of pause, in the stillness to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas which is that Christ is alive and that He is our hope.”
More info here: https://www.armagharchdiocese.org/youth-lourdes-2020/
Alpha is a parish tool for evangelisation based on hospitality, sharing and open conversation. The same Alpha content is run all over the world, by Christians of all traditions, and provides a common expression of proclamation, service and witness. Alpha takes people on a journey often leading to a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. It enables people to ask their questions, share ideas, build friendships and experience the love of God through the power of the Holy Spirit. In summary, the Alpha course is food, a talk and good conversation!
A new course begins in the Parish Centre, The Mall on Thursday 12th September at 7.30pm. Alpha is for everyone; all backgrounds, all contexts, all ages.
For more on the Alpha course in general, visit https://alpha.org/catholic-context/about
Ordination of Fr Michael Router as Auxiliary Bishop of Armagh
Saturday 20 July
7.00pm Vigil Mass in St Patrick’s Cathedral.
During the Mass, the blessing of the Pontifical Insignia will take place. As we gather on the Feast of the Dedication of St Patrick’s Cathedral, Archbishop Eamon will bless Bishop Michael’s Pastoral Ring, Staff and Mitre. After Mass, there will be Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, concluding with Benediction at 8.30pm, during which time we will pray for Fr Michael as he begins his new ministry. Everyone welcome.
Sunday 21 July
3.00pm Ordination Ceremony in St Patrick’s Cathedral.
Monday 22 July
7.30pm Mass of Thanksgiving in St Malachy’s Church, Armagh.
Fr Michael will celebrate his first Mass of Thanksgiving, to give thanks to God for his calling as Bishop and to pray God’s blessing on his work and ministry in the years to come. After the Mass, he will impart his blessing to all present. Everyone welcome.
Sharing the Good News – Issue 52
The May 2019 issue includes the following articles and news snippets:
Ø Good Friday Agreement allows a generation to reap the benefits of peace – Bishop Dermot Farrell
Ø All of share in the responsibility of nurturing future vocations – Archbishop Eamon Martin
Ø Accord Catholic Marriage Care’s recruitment of marriage preparation course facilitators
Ø New pilgrimage season opens on Lough Derg
Ø Bishops pay tribute to Jean Vanier following his death
Ø News in pictures: Pope Francis comments to young people in Macedonia; Mass for Vocations Sunday to be broadcast from RTÉ studios; and, Bishop Denis Nulty’s participation in the St Conleth 1500 celebrations in Newbridge Parish.
You can download the PDF here: Sharing the Good News May 2019
The Armagh Diocesan Youth Commission (ADYC) are excited to bring a group of teenagers to the only LifeTeen Camp in UK & Ireland this summer. The Camp takes place in Alton Castle, England.
Camp LifeTeen is a new initiative that ADYC are supporting, designed for personal and team growth where individuals can learn to overcome fears and challenges whilst relying on their friends and faith for help. LifeTeen believes deeply in the power and grace of the Sacraments. The Camp offers opportunities to participate in the Sacraments and leading teens closer to Christ.
The cost is £400.00 (all inclusive of accommodation, meals, activities, day trips, return transport and t-shirt). Please see attached a brochure and further information can be found by following the link below:
https://www.armagharchdiocese.org/camp-lifeteen-2019/
Sharing the Good News – Issue 50, March 2019
The March 2019 issue includes the following articles and news snippets:
– Archbishop Eamon Martin encourages the faithful to #LiveLent 2019
– Archbishop Diarmuid Martin presides at a service of silence and prayerful reflection in a gesture of solidarity with the people of New Zealand and the Islamic faith worldwide;
– Parishes encouraged to champion the message of Laudato Si – Pope Franics’ encyclical on care for our common home
– ‘At the service of justice and peace’ – Archbishop Diarmuid Martin delivers the annual Trócaire lecture 2019 [article also includes a reference to the awarding of two prestigious honours to former Trócaire directors Mr Justin Kilcullen and Éamonn Meehan];
– Bishops express concern about ads for maternity hospital
– News snippets: (i) Bishop Kevin Doran appointed Chairman of Council for Life (ii) Altar used for WMOF2018 Closing Mass has new permanent home in Bonnybrook Parish.
You can download this as a PDF here:
Sharing the Good News March 2019
The Benedictine Monks, Rostrevor Co. Down, invite men (18-40) to an Easter Triduum Retreat from Holy Thursday 18th April until Sunday 20th April 2019.
Take time to reflect. Examine your life and consider your call.
If interested, please contact:
Fr Thierry: benedictinemonks@btinternet.
Facebook: Benedictine Monks Rostrevor / Twitter: @rostrevormonks
Lenten Days and Holy Week Retreat at Dromantine – 2019
16th March ‘A Lenten Encounter: Looking Up and Reaching Out’ led by Fr. Damian Bresnahan SMA 10am – 5pm Cost £25 lunch included
30th March ‘A Lenten Experience: Called to Renewal’ led by Fr. John Gallagher SMA 10am – 5pm £25 lunch included
Holy Week Retreat Wed 17th April at 5pm – Sunday 21st at 11am The SMA Community invites you to join them in reflectively celebrating the Easter Triduum, beginning with the Seder Meal. £250 full board
Dromantine Retreat Centre, Newry BT34 1RH Booking: Tel. 028 30821964 or admin@dromantineconference.com
The annual Day of Prayer for Survivors and Victims of Abuse takes place on Friday 15 February 2019, just one week before the historic gathering in Rome hosted by Pope Francis on 21-24 February Rome to discuss the safeguarding of minors in the Church. We ask for your prayers for all those who have been hurt by abuse in the Church. We pray for Pope Francis and for the success of the meeting in Rome at which senior bishops and religious superiors from around the world will be attending.
Archbishop Eamon Martin will be blessing and dedicating a ‘Candle of Atonement’ during Mass in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh, on 15 February, at 7.30pm. All are welcome. This Candle will be lit in our Cathedral as a reminder of the need for atonement and to symbolise repentance, light in the darkness and hope.
A candle of atonement will be lit at all Masses in our parish on the weekend of 16th & 17th February.
‘Sharing the Good News’ – Issue 49, February 2019
The February 2019 issue includes the following articles and news snippets:
- Accord publishes 2018 returns for marriage preparation and for marriage and relationship counselling
- Candles of atonement to be lit in cathedrals and parishes
- Ireland can and should have a world-class health care system – Archbishop Diarmuid Martin
- New Bishop Larry Duffy answers ‘call within a call’ in front of 1,000 plus congregation
- Join forces to end human trafficking – Pope Francis
- News snippets: Foyle Search and Rescue takes deliver of one of the cars used by Pope Francis while he was in Ireland for the WMOF2018; and, Vatican announces that Cardinal John Henry Newman is to be canonized.
You can download the two page edition here:
Sharing the Good News February 2019
Rachel’s Vineyard weekend retreats provide a healing opportunity for anyone struggling with the spiritual or emotional pain of an abortion. It aims to help suffering souls find a voice and transform the pain of the past into love and peace and a future full of hope. For information call Marian in complete confidence on 07814 748 744 or e mail marianrvni@yahoo.co.uk and check us out on Facebook.
Sharing the Good News
In this issue, you’ll find:
- Young Irish Catholics in Panama for World Youth Day 2019
- Archbishop Eamon Martin consults faithful ahead of February summit in Rome
- Catholic Schools Week 2019
- Bishops to Christians in the Holy Land: You are not forgotten
- Pope Francis’ letter to Pontifical Academy for Life marking their 25th anniversary
- News snippets: Bishop Paul Tighe at the launch of a new Vatican Athletics team and Bishop Brendan Leahy on the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
You can download the edition here (PDF): Sharing the Good News January 2019
Synod of Bishops on Young People, Faith and Vocational Discernment
The Final Document from last year’s Synod of Bishops has been released. The topic of the Synod was Young People, Faith and Vocational Discernment.
You can read the full text here:
http://www.synod2018.va/content/synod2018/en/fede-discernimento-vocazione/final-document-of-the-synod-of-bishops-on-young-people–faith-an.html
You can also download the document in PDF format by clicking on this link (the document is 56 pages): Final Document from Synod of Bishops (2018)
Epiphany (also known as Twelfth Night, Theophany, or Three Kings Day) marks the occasion of a time-honoured Christian tradition of “chalking the doors.” The formula for the ritual — adapted for 2019 — is simple: take chalk of any colour and write the following above the entrance of your home: 20 + C + M + B + 19.
Epiphany Proclamation 2019
While a day like Christmas is fixed in our minds and on the calendars on December 25th, many of the important feasts of the Church year move, based upon the date that Easter is set. Easter changes each year moving to the Sunday after the “Paschal Full Moon,” and can fall between March 22 and April 25.
In ancient times before calendars were common, most people did not know the dates for the upcoming Liturgical year. On Epiphany Sunday, the upcoming dates were “proclaimed” after the gospel in this way:
Dear brothers and sisters,
the glory of the Lord has shone upon us,
and shall ever be manifest among us,
until the day of his return.
Through the rhythms of times and seasons
let us celebrate the mysteries of salvation.
Let us recall the year’s culmination,
the Easter Triduum of the Lord:
his last supper, his crucifixion, his burial,
and his rising celebrated
between the evening of the Eighteenth of April
and the evening of the Twentieth of April,
Easter Sunday being on the Twenty-first day of April.
Each Easter — as on each Sunday —
the Holy Church makes present the great and saving deed
by which Christ has for ever conquered sin and death.
From Easter are reckoned all the days we keep holy.
Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent,
will occur on the Sixth day of March.
The Ascension of the Lord will be commemorated on
Sunday, the Second day of June
Pentecost, joyful conclusion of the season of Easter,
will be celebrated on the Ninth day of June.
And, this year the First Sunday of Advent will be
on the First day of December, 2019.
Likewise the pilgrim Church proclaims the passover of Christ
in the feasts of the holy Mother of God,
in the feasts of the Apostles and Saints,
and in the commemoration of the faithful departed.
To Jesus Christ, who was, who is, and who is to come,
Lord of time and history,
be endless praise, for ever and ever.
Amen.
(Source:
http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Advent/Epiphany-Proclamation.html)
Come join us each Sunday in Advent in the Church of the Assumption, Drumalane, at 7pm.
UNBOUND: Deliverance, Freedom and Belonging:
‘The 12’ supported by the ‘Irish School of Evangelisation’ will host: ‘Unbound: Freedom In Christ’ with Matt Lozano from ‘Heart of the Father Ministry’ USA in Dromantine Retreat and Conference Centre, Newry on Sat.9th & 10th March 2019.
In preparation for this, the 12 will deliver training sessions for prayer leaders and intercessors in Benburb Servite Priory Co. Tyrone from 7.30-9.00pm on the following Wednesdays: 24th Oct., 31st Oct., 7th Nov., 14th Nov., 21st Nov. For further information contact: Clare R.O.I. (087)2292683 N.I. (0035387)2292683 or Marie N.I. (028)85557394 R.O.I. (048)85557394. You can also email: mailforthe12@gmail.com
‘Day for Life’ message addresses human trafficking and modern slavery
· Bishop Kevin Doran publishes video message on @CatholicBishops Twitter
This Sunday, 7 October 2018, the Church in Ireland marks the Day for Life, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the meaning and value of human life at every stage, and in every condition. Day for Life is celebrated each year by the Catholic Church in Ireland, Scotland, and in England & Wales. The theme for this year’s Day for Life is focused on human trafficking and modern slavery.
Printed copies of the Day for Life pastoral message will be circulated at parish Masses throughout the country over this weekend. The text of the pastoral message is available in English (see below), and is also available in the Irish and Polish languages on www.catholicbishops.ie.
This year’s pastoral message includes a testimony from Daia* from Nigeria, who is a victim of human trafficking. The message also highlights the work of the Santa Marta Group, which works internationally to bring the Catholic Church and law enforcement agencies together to eradicate slavery.
Bishop Kevin Doran, Bishop of Elphin and the Bishops’ Conference Day for Life delegate, has recorded a video message which can be found on Twitter @catholicbishops.
A special web feature is available on www.catholicbishops.ie which includes:.
Text of the Day for Life pastoral message
Prayers of Intercession on the theme of Human Trafficking.
Day for Life 2018 pastoral message
Testimony
“My name is Daia*. I’m from a small town in Edo State, Nigeria. My family were very poor and from a young age I was always chasing a ‘better life’.
“At 18 I met and fell in love with Victor*, from Lagos. I was so impressed by his fine clothes and his confidence. Victor suggested going together to London – he said he had friends there and a job for me, cleaning in a hair salon. I was so excited. Victor traveled ahead and I was to follow him.
“After a long journey I arrived in Dublin. I had never heard of this place but thought it was just another stop-over on my way to London. Victor had arranged for someone to meet me. This man took me in his car. But we did not go to Victor, or to the hair salon, or to London. He took me to a brothel. I have been here ever since.”
* This is a true story. Names have been changed to protect identities.
Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery
Jesus tells us, “I have come that you may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10 NJB). But many people do not have life to the full.
They have fallen victim to the scourge of human trafficking and modern slavery which are an assault on a person’s innate human dignity. People are not commodities to be traded ruthlessly for criminal profit.
Indeed, this is something that is happening in communities across our country, not just in our big cities. It’s not only happening in brothels and nail bars, but on farms, building sites and factories as well. Nor is this a problem confined to immigrant communities, it is affecting our own citizens too.
Trafficking is a growing problem and the UN estimates that over 40 million people worldwide are in slavery. In Ireland each year the victims of trafficking is approaching 100. Irish people are also trafficked in the UK where it is estimated that the total number of victims each year is over 13,000 from all countries.
Criminals exploit some of the most vulnerable and desperate people. We can act together to stop this. It is a crime hidden in plain sight. It is difficult to investigate, and the police need our help to identify and stop the traffickers and rescue and support the victims.
How can we help?
The Catholic community can make a real difference to help solve this problem – to help victims find freedom and live life to the full. There are many organisations working to put a stop to human trafficking and modern slavery. One of these, the Santa Marta Group, works internationally to bring the Catholic Church and law enforcement agencies together to eradicate slavery.
To read more visit www.santamartagroup.com. A Diocese or local Church community can effect real change for trafficked people.
Day for Life is celebrated yearly by the Catholic Church in Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the meaning and value of human life at every stage and in every condition.
We encourage you to deepen your understanding of Catholic Social Teaching on this important question by exploring the material we have for you on www.chooselife2018.ie/Day4Life/
We wish to thank Ruhama for its support in the preparation of this pastoral message on human trafficking. Ruhama is involved in advocacy and assists women affected by prostitution including victims of sex trafficking. See www.ruhama.ie
The Legion of Mary in Down and Connor is organising a fourth conference for young Catholic adults (18yrs-40yrs). It is hoped that the conference will attract those who may not consider themselves as committed Catholics but who are open to the search for truth. The conference will take place at the Catholic Chaplaincy, Queen’s University Belfast on Saturday 20th October 2018, from 10am-5.30pm. Registration begins at 9am. Contact details: cayaconference16@gmail.com or call 07753379110
Retrouvaille – A Lifeline for Married Couples
Do you want to improve the communication with your spouse? Do you feel lost, alone or bored in your marriage? Are you hurt, frustrated or angry with your spouse? Does talking about it only make it worse? The Retrouvaille programme can help marriages at all stages. Next programme starts 5th – 7th October 2018. For information contact Tony & Anne (01) 495 3536, Mike & Anne (01) 450 0922, text or call 086 413 5440, or email info@retrouvaille.ie<mailto:info@retrouvaille.ie> or visit www.retrouvaille.ie<http://www.retrouvaille.ie>.
COMPLETELY CONFIDENTIAL
From the Alzheimer Society
JOIN OUR MEMORY WALK
SATURDAY, 13 OCTOBER 2018 AT 12 NOON
LISSAN HOUSE AND DEMENSE, COOKSTOWN, BT80 9SW
To register:
www.evenbrite.co.uk/e/alzheimers-society-5k-memory-walk-at-lissan-house-tickets-49575527738
or register on the day from 11.00am
Reg. Fee:
Adult: £10
Child: Free
The Joy of Love in Marriage
A Marriage Enrichment Weekend offers married couples (of all age ranges) private time to rekindle the joy of their love. The next Weekend (residential) will be from 5 to 7 Oct 2018 at the Dromantine Conference Centre, Newry. For info. and to book, visit www.marriageencounter.ie or call +44 770 281 2321 , 02871350612 or 01-845 3517.
ON BEHALF OF CULLYHANNA PARISH
Triduum to St Faustina on 3rd, 4th and 5th October 2018. Novena starts on 27th September, if you would like to do the 9 day Novena to St Faustina, the Novena leaflet will be in St Patrick’s Church, Cullyhanna beside the image of the Divine Mercy. Alternatively you may wish to contact the parish on 028 3086 1235 or lowercregganparish@hotmail.com
Rosary on the Coasts of Ireland and many other countries on October 7th
Join tens of thousands of the faithful in Ireland to pray the Rosary on our coasts and other inland locations at 2.30pm, on Sunday, October 7th. The people of many others countries will also pray the Rosary on their coasts/borders on that date, including the USA, Poland, Canada, India, the UK, Nigeria, Australia, Mexico, New Zealand and more. Register your own location at www.coastalrosaryireland.ie or send us an email to coastalrosaryireland@gmail.com or text us at 087 278 6552.
Mary, help of Christians, pray for us
‘The 12’Mission Team invite you to ‘New Life in the Spirit Weekend Seminars’ which takes place on September 22nd & 23rd in the Servite Priory, Benburb. Cost of food for two days is £25 and B&B is available for £25 in the Priory if required. (Tel. 028-37548241). Please join us for this ‘Freedom’ Weekend and discover the ‘crazy love of Jesus and how to be his Missionary Disciples’.
For Bookings contact mailforthe12@gmail.com or phone Marie on 028-85557394 or Claire on 087-2292683.
St Padre Pio Weekend at Knock Shrine
Our St Pio weekend at Knock Shrine takes place this year on the 15th and 16th September. Speakers include: Fr Richard Gibbons PP, Knock, Fr Sean Kelly, Fr. Carlo Laborde (Guardian of the Friary in San Giovanni Rotondo & of the Shrine of St Pio). Personal testimony will be shared by a person who received a special grace from St. Pio.
Mass will be at 4:30pm on Saturday, followed by a Holy Hour at 7pm.
Sunday Mass will be celebrated at 2:30pm in the Basilica by Most Rev. Donal McKeown, DD, Bishop of Derry. All welcome.
September on Lough Derg:
Season continues for One Day Retreats on September 10th, 11th, 15th, 16th, 22nd, 23rd & 30th. Two additional days: Finding God in the Mess, 20th Sept – This special day offers insight into how people find God in the everyday of life. Living with Suicide Day Retreat, 29th Sept. Advance booking is essential. Tel +353 (0) 71 9861518 or email info@loughderg.org
Bishop Barron’s Missionary Journey to Ireland
“Friends, I’m excited to share with you this recap of our missionary journey to Ireland for the World Meeting of Families, created by the gifted team at Spirit Juice Studios.”
If you’re heading to the Papal Mass tomorrow, you might find these maps and guides useful:
Prepare for a long journey: https://www.worldmeeting2018.ie/en/Programme/Final-Mass/Prepare-for-a-Long-Journey-Phoenix-Park
FAQ: https://www.worldmeeting2018.ie/en/Programme/Final-Mass/Frequently-Asked-Questions-Final-Mass
‘A Journey through Amoris Laetitia’ TV Series
As part of the preparation for the World Meeting of Families 2018 and the visit of Pope Francis to Ireland, a 6-part television series has been commissioned by the World Meeting of Families to help explore the document written by Pope Francis on love in the family.
‘A Journey through Amoris Laetitia’ features a wide variety of well-known commentators, as well as families from all walks of life and from all over the world. Contributors include President of Caritas Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, speaker and author Jeff Cavins, Bishop Robert Barron, John and Clare Gabrowski (Pontifical Council for the Family) and Primate of all Ireland Archbishop Eamon Martin.
Through the six episodes, presented by Wendy Grace, we reflect on what Amoris Laetitia has to say to families as they experience the ups and downs of family life and how Pope Francis addresses key themes like imperfection, mercy and wider society while also offering an uplifting vision for the family.
The series was a co-production between iCatholic.ie and KAIROS Communications. The series producers were Petra Conroy, Wendy Grace and Fr Bill Kemmy.
“In Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis asks us to keep walking together, to continue to encourage families in their daily commitments and challenges. I warmly welcome the ‘A Journey through Amoris Laetitia’ series as a great aid to our on-going reflection and dialogue on family life in the light of what Pope Francis has written for us. (Archbishop Eamon Martin)
‘A Journey through Amoris Laetitia’ will be available on-line through the website Amoris.ie which hosts all of the resources that were made available to help people prepare for the World Meeting of Families 2018.
Along with being available on-line, ‘A Journey through Amoris Laetitia’ is being broadcast internationally through a range of broadcast partners including Salt and Light TV, Catholic TV, EWTN and Shalom TV. Contact from other broadcasters is welcome.
“This is an excellent series to help us prepare for the World Meeting of Families in Dublin. But the quality and message of this series is not only limited to Dublin’s great event! Your ability to bring to life “Amoris Laetitia” through the series gives the videos a very long shelf life and serves as a very fine teaching tool of Pope Francis’ landmark Apostolic Exhortation – the rich fruit of the two Synods on the Family! Congratulations to all who made this series possible. Thank you for allowing us to share it with Canadians from coast to coast to coast!” (Fr. Thomas Rosica, Salt and Light TV)
Highlights from our recent diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes:
The Holy See Press Office has published the itinerary of the Holy Father Pope Francis for his pastoral visit to the 9th World Meeting of Families in Ireland on 25 and 26 August.The official Papal itinerary is now available on the World Meeting of Families website.
It was announced that Pope Francis will visit Knock Shrine on Sunday 26 August to pray for families as part of his pastoral visit to Dublin. During his time in Knock Pope Francis will visit the Apparition Chapel and give the Angelus address in front of the Apparition Chapel in the grounds of Knock Shrine.
Commenting following today’s release of the Holy Father’s itinerary, Father Richard Gibbons, PP and Rector of the Shrine said, “It is an honour to welcome Pope Francis to Knock Shrine on behalf of our pilgrims, parishioners and staff. We are humbled that the Holy Father will come to spend time with us in Knock to pray for families.
“His Holiness has great devotion to Our Lady and also St Joseph, as represented on his Papal Coat of Arms. It is fitting that he should visit Knock, where an Apparition of Our Lady, St Joseph, St John and the Lamb of God was witnessed on 21st August 1879.”
“St John Paul II visited the Shrine to celebrate the centenary of the Apparition in 1979. We are delighted that Pope Francis will fly into Ireland West Airport Knock to begin his pilgrimage to the Shrine. Monsignor Horan, who was so instrumental in the development of the airport would be very proud to see this day.”
Preparations are underway to make the visit of Pope Francis a wonderful moment of prayer for families across Ireland and across the world. We look forward to sharing the unique message of Knock with visitors from home and abroad.
The visit of Pope Francis to Knock Shrine will be a ticketed-event and tickets will be free. Those interested in registering for this event in Knock Shrine will be able to do so from Monday 25 June on the World Meeting of Families website. Tickets may only be obtained by registering online via the WMOF2018 website: www.worldmeeting2018.ie
Here’s the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 15 has just been released!
You can download issue 15 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue15_Final
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Welcome to the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 14 has just been released!
You can download issue 14 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue14_Final
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Welcome to the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 13 has just been released!
You can download issue 13 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue13_Final
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Our Common Humanity
The pastoral message, “Our Common Humanity”, was published after the Spring General Meeting of the Irish Bishops’ Conference. You can view it as a JPEG below or download it here: CCO_Our Common Humanity_designed
Welcome to the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 12 has just been released!
You can download issue 12 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue12_Final
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Welcome to the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 11 has just been released!
You can download issue 11 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue11_Final
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Welcome to the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 10 has just been released!
You can download issue 10 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue10_Final
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Welcome to the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 7 has just been released!
You can download issue 7 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue7_Final
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Welcome to the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 6 has just been released!
You can download issue 6 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue6_Final
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Rosary at the Mass Rocks
In November over 30,000 Irish People gathered at our coasts to pray the rosary to preserve Life & Faith in Ireland.
Now we turn to our Mass Rocks and Ancient Monastic Sites, on Sunday March 18th, at 2.30pm, to pray the rosary, and ask our deceased brethren, who risked their lives for the faith, to intercede for Ireland. For more info, or to sign up a location visit www.coastalrosaryireland.ie
“You shall obtain all you ask of me by the recitation of the Rosary”
Blessed Alan De La Roche
Novena of Prayer in Honour of St Patrick,
Oasis of Shamrock,
Visit of Papal Nuncio
A Novena of Prayer in honour of St Patrick will be celebrated in Armagh from 8 – 16 March. You and your family are invited to visit the Cathedral during this time and to place your petitions before the statue of St Patrick. Please also bring a little pot of shamrock to place in the Oasis of Shamrock at the front of the statue in thanksgiving for those who have helped pass on the gift of faith to us.
You are most welcome to join us for the close of the Novena at the Vigil Mass for the Feast of St Patrick on Friday 16 March at 6.00pm in St Patrick’s Cathedral. The main celebrant will be Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, Apostolic Nuncio to Ireland, paying his first visit to our diocese.
Ahead of the expected extreme cold weather due in Ireland this week, Archbishop Eamon Martin has issued the following statement to encourage parishioners to support the more vulnerable amongst us:
“The weather forecast for the coming days is expected to be exceptionally cold and to include a significant snowfall. This bad weather will affect and frighten many people across our country. Some will be afraid because they are alone, elderly, suffer from underlying medical conditions while others will be cold and hungry. They may too proud to admit their vulnerability.
“Parishes are at their strongest when they support their weakest. In the words of Jesus “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matt 25:40). Christ spoke of the parable of the Good Samaritan who cared for a stranger. It was enough that he was a person in need for the Samaritan to act – and to follow up afterwards to underpin that care.
“There is in each of us a Good Samaritan. The natural disposition of the human heart is to love. At this challenging time I am asking all able people of goodwill to:
– be alert – in person or by telephone – to the needs of vulnerable neighbour, old and young
– check if they have enough food, fuel supplies and adequate clothing
– assist in clearing pathways to homes, and offer transport for essential journeys
– use, as appropriate, the online reporting system provided by the Peter McVerry Trust to support rough sleepers on our streets: www.homelessdublin.ie/report-rough-sleeper
– donate warm cloths to charity shops
– support local farmers as it is lambing season and the death rate for all livestock increases sharply in extreme weather.
During these days I encourage the faithful to include the following in their prayers:
Prayer for shelter from the storm
God of heaven and earth,
God who carries our lives
and the lives of our whole community
in your hands,
be with us.
Send us your holy angels
to watch over and guard us.
May they spread their holy wings
to give us shelter against the storm.
We ask this through Christ,
Our Lord.
Amen
(Image from http://firststepsnursery.co.uk/snow-much-fun/)
Welcome to the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 5 has just been released!
You can download issue 5 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue5_Final
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
TIME FOR A NEW CHALLENGE?
Are you interested in becoming a Facilitator with ACCORD Catholic Marriage Care Service, Ireland’s leading provider of marriage preparation courses?
Would you like to share your positive married experience with engaged couples preparing for their married life together?
ACCORD
is a voluntary Catholic organisation that aims to promote a deeper understanding of Christian marriage and to offer people the means to safeguard and nourish their marriage and family relationships
Professional training is provided – Certificate in Marriage Education (Special Purpose Award) Accredited by:
Pontifical University, St Patrick’s College Maynooth
Please contact ACCORD ARMAGH Centre on 02838 334781 or by email armagh@accordni.com for further information.
ACCORD – centres Nationwide.
More information is available on: www.accord.ie
Welcome to the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 4 has just been released!
You can download issue 4 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue4_Final
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Stations of the Cross for the Sick & Suffering
Friday 23rd February 2018 – 7.30pm
Church of the Assumption, Drumalane
Welcome to the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 3 has just been released!
You can download issue 1 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue3
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Welcome to the latest edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
Issue 2 has just been released!
You can download issue 1 as a PDF here: ChooseLife2018_Issue2_Final
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Pope Francis has written a letter to all Catholics for Lent 2018. The theme is “Because of the increase of iniquity, the love of many will grow cold” (Matthew 24:12).
The letter can be read here:
or downloaded in PDF here:
Message of Pope Francis for Lent 2018
Welcome to the first edition of “Choose Life 2018”!
This newsletter is designed by the Catholic Communications Office and is intended to encourage discussion on the value of every human life.
You can download issue 1 as a PDF here: Choose Life 2018_Issue 1
You can learn more at https://www.chooselife2018.ie/
Armagh Diocesan Pioneer Temperance Mass Sunday 11th February 2018 in Servite Priory Benburb 3.00pm.
Drugs & Alcohol – Help Prevent
The Mission and Outreach group of the Armagh Diocesan Pastoral Plan is holding two Information & Awareness Evenings entitled Drugs & Alcohol – Help Prevent, for Parents/Guardians, in the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, The Magnet, Dundalk, Co Louth, on Monday 12th & 19th February from 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Facilitator John Taaffe ACI (Addiction Counsellor) All welcome. For further information please contact John 086-8611531.
Pastoral Parents Family Programme
Do you feel burdened by family stresses? Families encounter many issues that impact on our Wellness. We are holding a pilot 6 week group to help support parents / guardians with the everyday issues that cause stress to parents i.e. technology, relationships, communication issues, boundaries, finance, faith, resilience, culture, etc. The programme will start 2nd February for 6 consecutive Friday Mornings from 10.30-12.00pm in the Pastoral Centre, The Magnet Dundalk, facilitated by trained counsellor. For Information please contact John 086-8611531.
The Poor Clares in Galway are hosting a Cloister day on Saturday, January 27th from 10am to 5pm. The day is designed to help young women between the ages of 21 and 40 to find out more about the Poor Clare way of life with a view to vocation discernment. To book a place contact:
Sr. Faustina at: poorclaresgalwayvocations@gmail.com
Accord Marriage and Relationship Counselling
If you have difficulty talking to each other try talking to us. To book an appointment at our Portadown Centre. Phone Kate on 028 38 334781
The December 2017 issue of the monthly newsletter from the Irish Bishops’ Conference, “Sharing the Good News” includes:
– Bishops appeal to members of the Oireachtas regarding human life
– Pope Francis appoints Bishop Brendan Kelly as the new Bishop of Galway
– Bishops express gratitude for €5m Church collection in aid of east-African hunger crisis
– News snippets: launch of An Leabhar Aifrinn Rómhánach; World Meeting of Families 2018 Christmas cards; World Day of Prayer for Peace; World Day of Migrants and Refugees.
It can be downloaded in PDF format here: Sharing the Good News December 2017
More info is at https://www.catholicbishops.ie/parishnewsletter/
Since 2012 the Bishops’ Conference’s Choose Life website has been a dedicated portal to offer resources and promote the protection of the life of the unborn. The website hosts up-to-date news on the life issue as well as prayer materials for parishes and the faithful.
Visit https://www.chooselife2018.ie/ for more.
Retrouvaille – A Lifeline for Married Couples
Do you want to improve the communication with your spouse? Do you feel lost, alone or bored in your marriage? Are you hurt, frustrated or angry with your spouse? Does talking about it only make it worse?
The Retrouvaille programme can help marriages at all stages. Next programme starts 2nd – 4th February 2018. For information contact Tony & Anne (01) 495 3536, Mike & Anne (01) 450 0922, text or call 086 413 5440, or email iinfo@retrouvaille.ie or visit www.retrouvaille.ie.
Youth 2000 Ulster Retreat – 20th to 22nd April 2018
The next Youth 2000 Ulster retreat will be taking place in St. Patrick’s College, Maghera, Co. Derry between 20th-22nd April 2018.
Date: 20th to 22nd April 2018
Venue: St. Patrick’s College, Maghera, Co. Derry
Cost: Donation Only (This retreat costs Youth 2000 €25 per person)
Ages: 16 – 35 year olds only
This promises to be a special retreat!!
Great CRAIC!!, Excellent Speakers, Inspiring Talks & Workshops,Fantastic music, Group activities, Youth Masses, Adoration, Reconciliation, prayer, Drama, Games & plenty of time to chill out, meet new people and find out what it means to be young & Catholic today!!
Meals WILL be provided for.
Beds WILL be provided for, BUT everyone MUST bring their own pillow and sleeping bag/quilt.
More info here: http://youth2000.ie/youth-2000-ulster-retreat-20th-to-22nd-april-2018/
The Pope Video for December 2018
This month the Pope asks us to pray for the elderly. Those who have lived the longest have the most to give! Let us take care of them. They are our future.
As a unique Advent prayerful resource, the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference has provided its online Advent 2017 Calendar which can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The calendar is available online, and on your smartphone, on catholicbishops.ie. This year’s Advent Calendar focuses on the theme of family as we prepare together for next year’s World Meeting of Families in Dublin from 21 – 26 August. Each day during Advent you are invited to click open a virtual door where you will find faith content for family, school and parish. During Advent, families are invited to take special time together to pray, to talk, and to be together. Family members are encouraged to undertake a daily act of kindness or charity – as suggested by the calendar – and by so doing reaching out to help those around us. By using the online calendar, we hope that you will be part of our journey through Advent this year.
Christmas and New Year is often a time when we are reminded of our deeper selves and deepest hopes, and deepest pain. The vision of Towards Peace is to provide a safe supportive space for people who have been affected by abuse in a Church context, and who are seeking to explore the spiritual impact of the abuse. If you have been abused and would like a space to reflect on the impact of the trauma of abuse on your own relationship with God and spirituality, Towards Peace is here for you: www.towardspeace.ie / (00353) 1 505 3028.
HITTING THE 1,000th REGISTRATION MILESTONE
As we get closer to welcoming people from all over the world, we are thrilled to announce that we have passed the 1,000th registration milestone. Over 1,200 individuals have already registered from around Ireland and from 40 countries across the world, including Albania, Argentina, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, China, England, France, Germany, Libya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru, Qatar, Scotland, Spain, Uganda, USA and Wales. We have been in contact with 838 groups that have plans to bring over 2,000 additional pilgrims that will be coming from abroad. Attendance at all WMOF2018 events will require a ticket and the number of people registered increasing every day. Book now here!
Check out our new video where Anne Griffin, General Manager of WMOF2018, explains how people can register and get tickets for all the WMOF2018 events.
‘ROSARY ON THE COAST FOR LIFE AND FAITH’
FEAST OF CHRIST THE KING
26 NOVEMBER, 2017
Over the last two months over a million Polish faithful travelled to the borders of their country to pray for the preservation of the faith including the protection of the Unborn Child in Poland. Inspired by the Polish “Rosary at the Borders”, Italian faithful held a similar “Rosary on the Border” for the same intention. Many of the thousands who participated prepared with a week-long fast on bread and water.
IT IS IRELAND’S TURN!
Our island is in the midst of a catastrophic loss of Catholic faith especially among the youth. Ireland, North and South, are facing an immediate and terrible threat to the protection of our babies before birth.
We are mustering the faithful to our coastlines, the Atlantic Ocean and the Irish Sea, to pray for the preservation of the faith and for the protection of life at all stages.
The “Rosary on the Coasts for Life and Faith“ will be held on Sunday 26 November, the Feast of Christ the King.
Why the Feast of Christ the King? Ireland was the first country in the world to be consecrated to Christ the King. This solemn consecration was declared in the 1930s and to date only three countries share this great blessing. The feast is extremely important. Acknowledging Christ as King has relevance for the spiritual, social, cultural, legal and political life of Ireland.
When we honour Christ as King, we are immediately brought to His Queen, Mary and her Immaculate Heart!
The prayer at the coasts will begin at 2:30pm. It will not take long. It is winter and we are conscious that drivers need to reach home or at least the main roads before dark.
“WHERE TWO OR THREE GATHER IN MY NAME THERE AM I WITH THEM” Matt 18 20
We are calling on Bishops, Priests and Ordained Deacons to take part and select locations along the coast which they are prepared to travel to. However the response of the laity has been so enthusiastic that we are calling on individual lay faithful, prayer groups, apostolates, etc to select locations that they will travel to on the day. We are working on the principle that where two or three gathered, Christ our King and Mary our Queen will be there. But don’t worry once your location is on the list Our Lady will bring more!
ENCIRCLING IRELAND WITH A HUMAN ROSARY
We strive to have a Living Rosary around our island. And of course in Ireland we have to have the “Trimming” so the more prayer locations the better. Please send us your locations as soon as possible and start stringing the beads for the protection of Life and Faith in Ireland.
ROSARY ON THE COASTS FOR LIFE AND FAITH PRAYER PROGRAMME
Beginning at 2:30pm
Holy Rosary in honour of Christ the King and His Queen the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Pray to St Patrick, the martyrs, saints and holy souls who preserved the faith through the years
Prayer to St Michael, the angel of Ireland, and the guardian angels of the Irish living and dead
Prayer for the Protection of Life in Ireland
Prayer for the Preservation of Faith in Ireland
Instruction (If your gathering has a bishop, priest or ordained deacon)
Prayer of Atonement, Prayer of Reparation
Prayer of Consecration to Christ the King Prayer of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Blessing of Ireland (if there is a bishop, priest or deacon to give the blessing, if not pray for a blessing on Ireland.)
Plant a Miraculous Medal. We are asking people to “plant” the Miraculous Medal around the coasts. So bring a Miraculous Medal is you can.
Prayer for Mercy on Ireland (At 3pm Interrupt the programme to pray for Mercy with the Mercy Chaplet or other Mercy Prayer)
The following is an updated list of venues in the Archdiocese of Armagh where this event is taking place:
Blackrock Village, Co Louth (Midway down Main St at sculpture by sea wall)
Ardán Gentili, Knocknagoran, Omeath, Co Louth
St Jude’s Shrine Calvary, Ballyoonan , Omeath, Co Louth
Carlingford Lough (Lough Gates) Omeath Road, Newry
Riverstown, Gyles Quay. Meet Gyles Quay Car park
Sea Bank, Castlebellingham. (From Dundalk to Castlebellingham, take a left at the junction in the centre of the village. At the next fork take a left and continue to the sea.)
MAY GOD BLESS YOU! SEE YOU ON NOVEMBER 26TH ON THE COASTS OF IRELAND!
Pope Francis is calling on Catholics to focus on the poor in our society on a special day he has established to encourage the world’s Christian communities to become “an ever greater sign of Christ’s charity for the least and those most in need”.
The inaugural World Day of the Poor will be celebrated globally in Catholic churches on Sunday, 19 November.
You can read the Pope’s letter here: Pope Francis Message for World Day of the Poor
“This day is meant, above all, to encourage believers to react against a culture of discard and waste, and to embrace the culture of encounter,” Pope Francis wrote in a message written to mark the day.
“At the same time, everyone, independent of religious affiliation, is invited to openness and sharing with the poor through concrete signs of solidarity and fraternity.
“God created the heavens and the earth for all; yet sadly some have erected barriers, walls and fences, betraying the original gift meant for all humanity, with none excluded.”
In his message the Pope highlights how the early Christians were quick to serve the poor in obedience to Christ’s proclamation that “the poor are blessed and heirs to the Kingdom of heaven”.
As well as holding up Saint Francis of Assisi as a witness of authentic poverty, Pope Francis invites us to step out of our ‘certainties and creature comforts’ to acknowledge the value of poverty in itself:
“Poverty means having a humble heart that accepts our creaturely limitations and sinfulness and thus enables us to overcome the temptation to feel omnipotent and immortal.
“Poverty is an interior attitude that avoids looking upon money, career and luxury as our goal in life and the condition for our happiness.
“Poverty instead creates the conditions for freely shouldering our personal and social responsibilities, despite our limitations, with trust in God’s closeness and the support of his grace.
“Poverty, understood in this way, is the yardstick that allows us to judge how best to use material goods and to build relationships that are neither selfish nor possessive.”
The Holy Father goes on to look at how the modern world struggles to see poverty clearly, despite the fact that it surrounds us in so many ways, and states that we can’t remain passive and resigned to it:
“Poverty challenges us daily, in faces marked by suffering, marginalization, oppression, violence, torture and imprisonment, war, deprivation of freedom and dignity, ignorance and illiteracy, medical emergencies and shortage of work, trafficking and slavery, exile, extreme poverty and forced migration.
“Poverty has the face of women, men and children exploited by base interests, crushed by the machinations of power and money. What a bitter and endless list we would have to compile were we to add the poverty born of social injustice, moral degeneration, the greed of a chosen few, and generalized indifference!
“Tragically, in our own time, even as ostentatious wealth accumulates in the hands of the privileged few, often in connection with illegal activities and the appalling exploitation of human dignity, there is a scandalous growth of poverty in broad sectors of society throughout our world.”
(Original post here: http://catholicnews.org.uk/world-day-of-poor-2017)
