Mass intentions for the week ahead 2nd January 2011

Saturday 1st January   Feast of Mary, Mother of God
Vigil Mass  6.30 pm  Mary Tierney and deceased members of Tierney
                                 and Downey families.
Sunday 2nd January
9.30 am     Missa Pro Popula
11am        Teresa Carroll
12.15 pm  Patrick O'Reilly
6.30 pm    Ruth Browne and Michael Corcoran Jnr.

Monday 3rd January  
10am  Intention free
Tuesday 4th January
10am  For all the Sick
Wednesday 5th January
                  10am   Lorraine O'Sullivan
Vigil Mass    6.30 pm  Molly Scally
Thursday 6th January  Feast of the Epiphany
10am  Intention Free
11.30 am  Jack Murphy (Months Mind Mass)
6.30 pm   Kathleen Quaid and Jim & Patrick Barry
Friday 7th January
10am  Intention Free
Saturday 8th January
Vigil Mass   6.30 pm   Intention Free
Sunday 9th January  Baptism of the Lord
9.30 am    Intention free
11am        Mabel Walsh
12.15pm  Frank and Mary Nally
6.30 pm   Intention free.

Nollaig Shona Daoibh - Seasons Greetings!

Tom Barrett, R.I.P.

Your prayers are asked today for the repose of the soul of Tom Barrett, Corrib Park and Ballybane. Tom's remains will be reposing at the Holy Family Funeral Home in the grounds of Holy Family Church, Mervue, from 2 to 4 today when they will be removed to our church. Funeral Mass for Tom tomorrow at 11AM followed by burial in The New Cemetery, Bohermore.

'For see, winter is passed' (Songs 2:11)

Mass intentions for the week ahead 26th December 2010

Saturday 25th December  Christmas Day
9.30 am       Masses are for all the People of the
11 am         Sacred Heart Church and the
12.15 pm    Worshipping Community
 NO EVENING MASS

Sunday 26th December   Feast of the Holy Family
9.30 am      Michael and Bridget Conneely
11am          Eddie Brennan
12.15 pm   Gerard Monaghan and Tom Hynes
6.30 pm     Maura Flanagan

Monday 27th December
10am  Stephen and Barbara McDonagh and
           Michael Brosnan.
Tuesday 28th December
10am  For all the Sick and deceased members of
                                        Corrib Rangers  Club.

Wednesday 29th December
10am Sean Gill and Special Intention 'Willie and Catherine'
         Pray also for Francie McDonagh
Thursday 30th December
10am  Tommy Hynes and Mary and Paddy Maloney
Friday 31st December
10am  Teresa and Joseph Geoghegan

Saturday 1st January  Feast of Mary, Mother of God
6.30 pm  Mary Tierney and deceased members of Tierney
               and Downey families.

Sunday 2nd January
9.30 am  Intention free
11 am     Teresa Carroll
12.15pm  Patrick O'Reilly
6.30 pm  Ruth Browne and Michael Corcoran Jnr.

Newsletter, Fourth Sunday of Advent.

Statement of Archbishop Diarmuid Martin on Publication of Chapter 19 of Murphy Report PRESS RELEASE


17 December 2010

Statement of Archbishop Diarmuid Martin on Publication of Chapter 19 of Murphy Report

Chapter 19 provides additional specific evidence to the already horrendous narrative of the Murphy report. It reports the tragic and shocking story of how a devious, predatory paedophile used the priesthood to gain access to young children and abuse them and how no-one stopped him for years.

Over the last few days I have read and re-read this chapter of the report. What struck me particularly was the way in which parents came forward with no sense of vindictiveness towards the church, simply asking that the abuse stop, decisively and definitively. They weren’t out to “get the church”, but the church they loved and respected failed them.

It was not just that the matters were not reported to the Gardaí but the Archdiocese did not follow up its own commitment to stop the abuse. Tony Walsh was left in ministry, he was reassigned – he remained in contact with children, using his priestly dress and his membership of a priest’s show, where he was shown off as a priest, giving him constant access to young people. Unfortunately, some priests mistakenly supported his remaining in ministry.

Tony Walsh wriggled his way through every attempt that was made to contain him. The first lesson to be learned from this is that in the cases of serial compulsive paedophiles only decisive action is capable of stopping them. Cardinal Desmond Connell, to his credit, was among the first to recognise this. Procrastination and indecisiveness are a part of a climate in which paedophiles flourish. This is the importance of the current child safeguarding norms of the Church in Ireland which have to be supported by everyone. There is no room for revisionist thinking about these norms. Thankfully, there are hundreds of good people in our parishes who have gone through training programmes and give of their time to ensure that good child safeguarding procedures are making the Church the safe place that it is today.

It is true that much of what is narrated in this chapter took place many years ago. The context may or may not have been different. Abusing a child was and is a crime in civil law, was and is a crime in canon law; it was and is a grievous sin. Any form of sexual interference with a child is non- consensual, abusive and an act of violence. The theology of the time recognised that rape and sexual assault of anybody is wrong. The theology of the time was well aware of compulsive and recidivist sexual activity. It’s difficult to understand that people acted differently when the victims were children.

The Archdiocese of Dublin failed the victims of Tony Walsh and their families. I renew the words of apology I expressed in Ballyfermot last Sunday; I apologise unreservedly for the hurt caused and for the way the Church managed these matters.

The victims of Tony Walsh who bravely came forward to tell their story and others abused by priests in Dublin have done immense good for children, for society and indeed for the church. We all have a debt in their regard.

The fact that Tony Walsh was allowed to minister as a priest long after his paedophilia was identified is also a tragedy for good priests in Dublin whose vocation and life’s work in the name of the Gospel was tarnished.

Chapter 19 adds to the Murphy report but does not bring it to a complete conclusion. One more chapter remains incomplete. The report chronicles a frightening moment in the history of the church in Dublin. As I have said on other occasions, in many aspects the Church in Ireland had allowed itself to drift into a position where its role in society had grown beyond what is legitimate. It acted as a world apart. It had often become self-centred and arrogant. It felt that it could be forgiving of abusers in a simplistic manner and rarely empathised with the hurt of children.

The first step on the road to renewal is for our Church to recognise what went wrong to honestly acknowledge with no “buts” and no conditionality the gravity and the extent of what happened.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

This statement and the full text Archbishop Martin’s Homily from Mass in Ballyfermot last Sunday are available on:

http://www.dublindiocese.ie/

Further information:

Communications Office 01 -8360723, email

communications@dublindiocese.ie

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it, web

http://www.dublindiocese.ie/


Mass intentions for the week ahead 19th December 2010

Saturday 18th December

11 am Mary Ryan (Months Mind Mass)

6.30 pm Teresa Barrett and deceased members of Hernon family.

Bridie, Pat, Bill and Catherine Buckley.

Sunday 19th December 4th Sunday of Advent

9.30 am Lawless and Guinnane families deceased.

Joe and Barbara Davis.

11am Teresa Hession and deceased members of Colohan family.

12.15 pm Delia and Patrrick Ward and deceased members of

Ward and Lynskey families.

Ellen and John Hynes and Mary and Joseph Crowley.

6.30 pm Marcello Alarcon and Dolly Gavin.

Monday 20th December

10am James, Mary, Bernard and James Lee.

Bridie Drury recently deceased.

Tuesday 21st December

10am For all the Sick and Joe Kenny

Wednesday 22nd December

10am Hughes and Gilroy families deceased.

Deceased members of O'Donnell and Conneely families.

Thursday 23rd December

10am Sean Kilraine and Tom, Thomas Jnr and Ann Hayden.

Friday 24th December


9.00 pm Christmas Eve Mass and Blessing of the Crib.


Saturday 25th December Christmas Day


9.30 am Masses for all the People of the Parish


11am of the Sacred Heart Church and


12.15 pm the Worshipping Community.


No Evening Mass

Sunday 26th December Feast of the Holy Family

9.30 am Michael and Bridget Conneely

11am Eddie Brennan

12.15pm Gerard Monaghan and Tom Hynes

6.30 pm Maura Flanagan


Edmond ‘Ned’ Aherne, R.I.P.

Your prayers are asked today for the repose of the soul of Edmond ‘Ned’ Aherne, 6 Corrib Park and Ballylanders, Co. Limerick, who died during the week, and whose funeral took place in Ballylanders.

Also, of your charity, please pray for the repose of the souls of the following who also died recently:

1. Cecilia Giles, Bowling Green and Kilcolgan, the sister of William Giles, Inishannagh Park.

2. Kathleen Quaid, sister of Nora Corbett, Rockmount Road.

3. Brigid Higgins, Shantalla Road.

4. Maura Allen, ‘Estrella’, Taylors Hill.

5. Oliver Foley, Coventry, the brother of Aidan, Cruachan Park, Helen O’Byrne, Taylors Hill, and the late Mick, Rockmount Road.

6. Helen Molloy, Costello Road.

7. Finbarr O’Mahony, Highfield Park.

8. Tom Murphy, Cork.

‘Dying you destroyed our death’


Confessions for Christmas

A. Thanks to all who braved the weather for the Penitential Service for our Cluster of Parishes in The Abbey today!

B. Confessions here in the Sacred Heart


Today, Saturday 18th, 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM

Christmas Eve


12 Noon to 1


3PM to 4PM

C. CHRISTMAS SERVICE OF RECONCILIATION

“He will save his people from their sins...” (mt.1.21)

Monday 20th December 2010, 8.00p.m.

Facilitated by Croí Nua team

Welcome!

Venue: Croí Nua Centre, Rosary Lane, Taylor’s Hill, Galway (Opposite Scoil Róis)

Phone: (091)520960

Mobile: (087) 6833195

E-mail:

croinuacentre@eircom.net

Website:

http://www.croinua.com/


Kid’s Corner


We are all looking forward to the annual Scoil Bhríde Annual Christmas Pageant on Monday night at 7:30!


School Confessions continue this week with the Sixth Class coming to the church on Monday morning, and Fourth Class on Tuesday morning.

Click on image to zoom in and print.
Copyright:
http://www.sermons4kids.com/

The Gift Christmas Concert Dates:

The first concert took place in the Jesuit Church last night

18th December Bushy Park Church 8pm

19th December St Josephs church 8pm

20th Eyre Sq. Shopping centre

21st December Aula Maxima NUIG 8pm

22nd December Renmore Church 8pm

Tickets €10 Contact

Keara Sheeran ~ 0879007003 (Musical Director )

Susan Treacy ~ 087432245

Jesuit Office 091 523707

Holy Family School Renmore 091 779979


Statement by Cardinal Seán Brady, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, in response to the judgement today issued by the European Court of Human Rights on A, B, and C v. Ireland:

"Today's judgment leaves future policy in Ireland on protecting the lives of unborn children in the hands of the Irish people and does not oblige Ireland to introduce legislation authorising abortion" - Cardinal Brady

The judgement given today by the European Court of Human Rights regarding the legal position on abortion in Ireland raises profound moral and legal issues which will require careful analysis and reflection. Today's judgment leaves future policy in Ireland on protecting the lives of unborn children in the hands of the Irish people and does not oblige Ireland to introduce legislation authorising abortion.

The Irish Constitution clearly says that the right to life of the unborn child is equal to that of his or her mother. These are the fundamental human rights at stake. The Catholic Church teaches that neither the unborn child nor the mother may be deliberately killed. The direct destruction of an innocent human life can never be justified, however difficult the circumstances. We are always obliged to act with respect for the inherent right to life of both the mother and the unborn child in the mother’s womb. No law which subordinates the rights of any human being to those of other human beings can be regarded as a just law.

At the beginning of Advent on 27 November last Pope Benedict spoke about the coming of Christ into our world in the womb of the Virgin Mary. The Holy Father reflected on the light that this sheds on the wonder of all human life. The embryo in the womb, he said, is not just a collection of cells but “a new living being, dynamic and marvellously ordered, a new individual of the human species. This is what Jesus was in Mary’s womb; this is what we all were in our mother’s womb.”

As a society we all have a responsibility to respond sensitively to any woman who finds herself dealing with an unplanned pregnancy. I urge anyone in this situation to contact CURA, the crisis pregnancy support service.

ENDS

Media contact: Martin Long 00 353 861727678


A Message from Trócaire

On this fourth Sunday in Advent as we prepare to celebrate Christmas Trócaire is asking us to bring light to northern Uganda by buying a solar-powered lamp to help children study after dark and improve their chances of a better future. www.trocaire.org/globalgift

__________________________________



David O'Hare

Press Officer
Trócaire

Office: 028 9080 8030

Mobile: 079 0005 3884

http://www.trocaire.org/

Facebook:

http://facebook.com/trocaire

Twitter:

http://twitter.com/trocaire

YouTube:

http://youtube.com/trocaire

Flickr:

http://flickr.com/trocaire


Diocesan Carol Service


Tuesday 21 December 2010, at 7.30 pm.


Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St. Nicholas, Galway


Galway Cathedral will host a Carol Service of Christmas hymns, Scripture Readings and Prayer. All are invited to attend. The service will be presided over by Bishop Martin Drennan. The evening should prove to a very meaningful experience and help people to spiritually prepare for the feast of Christmas.


Website:


http://www.galwaycathedral.ie/


Cathedral Parish Office, The Cathedral, Galway, Ireland.


Tel: 00-353-91-563577


Fax: 00-353-91-534881


Email:


info@galwaycathedral.ie


Press release for the Winter 2010 General Meeting of the Irish Bishops' Conference‏

The scheduled Winter 2010 General Meeting of the Irish Bishops’ Conference was postponed last week due to bad weather. In its place a special one-day meeting of the Bishops’ Conference took place today in Maynooth and the following issues were discussed:

Advent and the Sacrament of Reconciliation

Prayers for persecuted Christians and for peace

Pastoral Letter of the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI to the Catholics of Ireland

A Bible in every home and Lectio Divina prayer initiative

Share the Good News - first National Directory for Catechesis in Ireland

National Eucharistic Congress in 2011 and International Eucharistic Congress in 2012

Trócaire’s Christmas campaign in 2010

Advent and the Sacrament of Reconciliation

During this season of Advent, the period of preparation for the feast of Christmas, the call to renewal of our Christian life is a central part of this preparation. In the Sacrament of Reconciliation (or Penance), we receive the gift of God’s mercy and forgiveness. Its celebration should be an integral part of our preparation for the Feast of the birth of Our Saviour. Bishops strongly encourage all Catholics in Advent to make time to avail themselves of the gift of God’s love in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Read the details on:

http://www.catholicbishops.ie/


Youth Ministry Season’s Greetings.

As the new-year approaches, we are now preparing for the next international World Youth Day which will be held from 15th -22nd August 2011 in Madrid, Spain.

World Youth Day is an excellent opportunity for young Catholics worldwide to come together and celebrate the faith they share. 2011 will be the 26th W.Y.D and the theme will be

Rooted and Built Up in Jesus Christ, Firm in the Faith (Colossians 2:7)

Youth from around the world are already getting ready to travel to Madrid and we want to ensure that the young people of Galway have the opportunity to experience this very special event. Bishop Martin Drennan will lead our Diocesan group (18-35 yrs) travelling to Madrid for a week to participate in the World Youth Days.

We are hoping that this trip will be of particular interest to all our religious educators (catechists in secondary schools, national school teachers etc.) in the diocese as part of their own on-going personal and professional formation. With this in mind, we would ask you to encourage all those you think may be interested to come along to our information evening about W.Y.D on:


Monday 10th January in the Diocesan Pastoral Centre at 8p.m.

This meeting will provide an opportunity for all people interested in the trip to find out more details and register their interest in travelling.

We thank you for your support and look forward to accompanying your parishioners on this very special journey.

Yours Sincerely

Siobhain Bradley

Youth Ministry Co-ordinator

Galway Diocesan Pastoral Centre

Newtownsmith

T: 091- 091-565066

youthministrygalway@gmail.com

http://www.pastoralcentre.ie/


Statement on the economic situation in Ireland by the Irish Bishops' Conference "In Helping each other, there is Hope"

As we meet today we are conscious that the recent dramatic events in our national economy have given rise to exceptional levels of fear, anger and disillusionment. Demands for assistance with basic things like food, fuel and clothing from organisations such as Saint Vincent de Paul are up as much as 35% from this time last year. In the Six Counties, the number presenting as homeless has almost doubled in the past six years, while in the Republic it has doubled in the past sixteen years. Organisations working with the homeless are expressing concern about their ability to respond to the level of need. The spectre of high levels of unemployment confronts our nation once again, with its demoralising impact on individuals and communities and the upheaval of emigration facing many Irish families. Large numbers of people have also become weighed down by unexpected levels of debt, the fear of losing their home, the prospect of losing their job, the dread of their business failing or the impact of cuts to their pay, pension or benefits. In many homes across the country the outward appearance of wealth and comfort masks exceptional levels of anxiety and material need.

Faced with these challenges it would be easy to descend into a culture of negativity, defeatism and despair. While important questions have to be asked about how this situation has arisen, a preoccupation with blame and recrimination alone would be futile and distract from the urgent task of building a more just, sustainable and prosperous future. We believe the inevitable pain of the current situation should be shared justly, with a special concern for the most vulnerable and least well off.

Read the full statement on:

http://www.catholicbishops.ie/


A message from Columba Press

We are delighted to inform you that The Columba Press have launched a new and improved website which you can now view at www.columba.ie. The Columba Press is one of the leading publishers of religious books in Ireland, the UK and Europe. Authors such as Brian D'Arcy and Daniel J. O' Leary top our spirituality list whilst our bestselling range of Glenstal Abbey titles will be recognisable to all.

To celebrate the launch of

http://www.columba.ie/

we are offering 10% off all purchases up to and including the 31st December 2010. Simply go online, select your title(s) and when prompted please enter the following code: columba001

Please note that this applies to Columba Press titles only.

Feel free to pass this information to your friends or to anyone who would be interested.

Wishing you all the best for the festive period from all at Columba,

All the best,

Patrick O' Donoghue

Sales Representative

The Columba Press

55A Spruce Avenue

Stillorgan Industrial Park

Blackrock

Co. Dublin

Ireland

Tel: + 353 1 294 2556 ext. 209

+ 353 87 2340229

E-mail: patrick@columba.ie

Website:

http://www.columba.ie/

Mass intentions for the week ahead 12th December 2010

Saturday 11th December
Vigil Mass   6.30 pm Mark, Joseph, Colm, Padraig and Jude Walsh.
                                 Mary and John Connell.

Sunday 12th December  3rd Sunday of Advent
9.30 am  Vinnie Byrne and Timothy Kyne
11am  Tom and Kathleen Casserly and deceased members of
           Casserly and Murphy families.
           2.  Cliona Tierney.
12.15 pm  Joe Hoade and John and Eileen O'Toole.
6.30 pm    Nora Coyne and Kate Sweeney.


Monday 13th December
10am  Kitty O'Sullivan and Anne Rushe.

Tuesday 14th December
10am  For all the Sick and acknowledgement Mass for Mary Brodie
          and for all who sympathised.
Wednesday 15th December
10am  William, Bridget and Sean Canavan and Oliver Byrne.

5.30 pm  - 8.00 pm  Indian Community Mass.


Thursday 16th December 
10am Frank Sheehan and Roche family living and deceased.
Friday 17th December
10am  Kate and Bernard Ward.

Saturday 17th December 11am  Mary Ryan (Months Mind Mass)
Vigil Mass  6.30 pm  Teresa Barrett and deceased members of
                                 Hernon family.
                                 2.  Bridie, Pat, Bill and Catherine Buckley.

Sunday 19th December  4th Sunday of Advent
9.30 am Lawless and Guinnane families deceased.
             Joe and Barbara Davis.
11am  Teresa Hession and Deceased members of Colohan family.
12.15 pm  Delia and Patrick Ward and deceased members of
                 Ward and Lynskey families.
                 Ellen and John Hynes and Mary and Joseph Crowley
6.30 pm  Marcello Alarcon and Dolly Gavin.

Jack Murphy, R.I.P.

Your prayers are asked today for the repose of the soul of John Francis 'Jack' Murphy, Shrewsbury and Davis Road. Jack's remains will be reposing at Conneely's Funeral Home, Flood Street, today, Thursday, December 9th, from 5 to 7 when they will be removed to our church. Jack's Funeral Mass will be at 11 tomorrow, Friday, with burial afterwards in Mount St. Joseph, Rahoon Cemetery.


'Dying you destroyed our death, rising you restored our life'.

December 8th, Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

'O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who has recourse to thee.'
The above stained glass window is in the Chapel of St. Columbanus, National University of Ireland, Galway, and features on this years Christmas Card from the chaplaincy to support the University Pilgrimage to The Holy Land in 2011. You'll get details of how to obtain the cards below; just scroll down through this weeks newsletter until you see Christmas Cards.

Newsletter, Second Week of Advent.

TONIGHT!! Liturgy of Hope

Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St. Nicholas, Galway


Tuesday 7 December 2010 @ 7.30 PM


(Eve of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception)


“Mary, Our Light, Our Hope”

In response to the spiritual needs of the people of Galway in these difficult times, Galway Cathedral will host a Liturgy of Hope, entitled “Mary, Our Light, Our Hope”.

Prof. Ray Kinsella, economist and senior lecturer in the School of Business, UCD recently wrote “We need a National week of prayer culminating on the feast of the Immaculate Conception, on December 8 … We will need these prayers in these most fateful days in the history of modern Ireland so that our parliamentary democracy is seen to act with calmness and courage and belief in resilience of the people they are privileged to represent (The Irish Catholic, December 2, 2010).”

This prayer service will provide the people of Galway with the opportunity to pray for themselves, their loved ones and their country.

The prayer service will involve Reflection, Scripture Readings and Petitions to Mary, Patroness of Galway Cathedral. There is an ancient tradition in Ireland of turning to Mary, Mother of God, in time of need.


Mass intentions for the week ahead
Tonight, Vigil Mass for the Holy Day

6.30 pm (the new time for our Vigil Mass)
Deceased members of Rockmount Road (40 yrs)

Wednesday 8th December Feast of the Immaculate Conception

10am Martin and Della Ryan

11.30 pm Delia Hoade and Fr. Anthony and 2. Alphonsus Dodd

6.30 pm Frank Broderick and Ann & Patsy Small.

Thursday 9th December

10am Bridie Whelan and Patrick O'Donohoe.

Friday 10th December

10am Tony Gavin and Heneghan and Gaughan families.

Saturday 11th December

Vigil Mass 6.30 pm Mark, Joseph, Colm, Padraig and Jude Walsh

Mary and John Connell.

Sunday 12th December 3rd Sunday of Advent, Gaudete (Rejoicing) Sunday

9.30 am Vinnie Byrne and Timothy Kyne

11 am Tom and Kathleen Casserly and deceased members of

Casserly and Murphy families.

2. Cliona Tierney

12.15pm Joe Hoade and John and Eileen O'Toole.

6.30 pm Nora Coyne and Kate Sweeney.


December 6th, Feast of Saint Nicholas, Patron of the City of Galway

Article below COPYRIGHT:

http://www.daughtersofstpaul.com/

Nicholas is the great patron of children and of Christmas giving. He lived in the fourth century. This famous saint was born in Asia Minor, which is modern-day Turkey. After his parents died, he gave all his money to charity.

Once a certain poor man was about to abandon his daughters to a life of sin because they did not have the money for a dowry. Nicholas heard about his problem. He went to the man's house at night and tossed a little pouch of gold through a window. This was for the oldest daughter. He did the same thing for the second daughter. The grateful father kept watch to find out who was being so good to them. When St. Nicholas came a third time, the man recognized him. He thanked Nicholas over and over again.

Later St. Nicholas became bishop. He loved justice. It is said that once he saved three men who had been falsely condemned to death. He then turned to their accuser. He made the man admit that he had been offered money to get rid of the three men.

St. Nicholas died in Myra, and a great basilica was built over his tomb. Many churches were dedicated in his name. When his relics were brought to Bari, Italy, this city became a famous shrine for pilgrims from all over Europe. Nicholas is the patron of sailors and prisoners. With St. Andrew, he is the patron of Russia.

It is thought that sailors and merchants, from their travels, brought devotion to him to Galway. Hence, he is the patron saint of our city, and patron of the ancient Collegiate Church of Saint Nicholas, and, along with our Lady Assumed into Heaven, patron of our cathedral.

The great charity of this saint has become legendary. Is there someone in my life who needs my love and generosity?

J.Lite Gospel Choir

Rehearsals every Wednesday night @ 7.30p.m in Galway Cathedral

All ages welcome... 087-7599571.

Latin Mass

Galway, Kilmacduagh & Kilfenora Diocese: Sunday, 12 December – 3 pm Mass, St. Patrick’s Garrison Chapel, Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Renmore, Galway. Celebrant: Rev Wulfran Lebocq, ICRSS

John Heneghan, Latin Mass Society of Ireland: 086-8530810

http://www.latinmassireland.org/

Liam Lawton Concert

"Fr Liam Lawton will be performing a "Christmas concert" in the church of the Immaculate Conception, Oughterard, on Friday 17th December. Tickets are €20 each, & can be purchased at Zhivago's shop street Galway, or online from the Liam Lawton website, or locally in Oughterard, e.g. tourist office etc.... Doors open @ 7.30pm concert begins @ 8pm. Further info from Nuala Joyce @ 087-671 9951

The Priests' Christmas Album

The Priests new Christmas Album “Noel” is available from Monday 6th December and is available from supermarkets, record shops and online from Amazon.co.uk and the single of "Little Drummer Boy" with Shane McGowan will be released on 12th December.

For further information visit

http://www.thepriests.com/


Christmas Cards

1. Christmas cards are now on sale from the NUIG Chaplaincy.

Proceeds will go towards our Holy Land pilgrimage next May. The cover of the card is a detail from one of the stained glass windows in the College Chapel as illustrated in this picture:

A pack of twenty cards is priced at ten euro. Orders are now being taken at
chaplaincy@nuigalway.ie

Telephone 091 495 055 or call to the Chaplaincy Centre on Distillery Road.

Your support is greatly appreciated.

2. Please support our Galway Cathedral Bookshop

Our Cathedral Bookshop has a huge selection of Cards, gift ideas, liturgical and spirituality books.

Open everyday

Please support! 091- 563577

Support Trócaire

This Advent Trócaire is asking us to remember children in Somalia. Somalia is desperately dangerous with only 30% of children able to attend school and many are forced to become child soldiers. This Christmas through its Global Gifts Trócaire is hoping to keep 15 primary schools open giving 3,500 children the chance to go to school for a year and stay safe.

Advent reminds us that Christ's love encompasses everyone, in all nations. Let us remember the people in the developing world who struggle every day to find enough food to survive or don't know how they will keep their children safe. Help them through Trócaire's Christmas Global Gift appeal. www.trocaire.org/globalgift

David O'Hare

Press Officer
Trócaire

Office: 028 9080 8030

Mobile: +4479 0005 3884

http://www.trocaire.org/

Facebook: http://facebook.com/trocaire

Twitter: http://twitter.com/trocaire

YouTube: http://youtube.com/trocaire

Flickr: http://flickr.com/trocaire


Galway Choral Association presenting a Christmas concert in support of COPE Galway

Featuring Mozart's Missa Brevis in B flat, the programme includes choral music by Elgar and Rutter, as well as Handel's Hallelujah Chorus. The concert takes place in St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, at 8pm on Saturday 11 December.

Tickets €15 (€10 concessions) are available from choir members, Opus II in the Cornstore, COPE Galway or at the door.

Regards

Mary Curtin- PRO and membership officer, Galway Choral Association

Mary Curtin

mobile: +353851690116

Skype: mary.curtinNZ


Spirit Radio is launching in Dublin, Cork, Galway


Limerick and Waterford on January 27 2011


Upbeat and uplifting,

entertaining and inspirational,

Spirit Radio will play the best contemporary Christian music

plus a selection of positive hits.

Presenters will highlight stories

that show how ‘faith in God’ makes a real difference.

Spirit’s news and talk

will get Christian voices

speaking to the issues of the day.

The format will include heart warming

and thought provoking stories.

See website for more:

http://www.spiritradio.ie/

Áine Carvill

Marketing & Promotions

Spirit Radio - Passion for Life

T. +353 1 614 4839

M. +353 86 825 0777

Email. aine.carvill@spiritradio.ie


A Message from the Irish School of Ecumenics

Dear Friend,

As the Irish School of Ecumenics this month celebrates its 40th anniversary and our thoughts begin to turn upon the mystery of Christmas, we are happy once more to send you information and resources for the coming Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (18th-25th January 2011). For this year, the Order of Service has been prepared by Christians in Jerusalem. They have chosen the biblical theme – “One in the Apostles’ teaching, fellowship and the breaking of bread” (Acts 2:42).

This witness of oneness in faith calls to mind the protracted suffering of the churches in Israel and Palestine and of the many people in that land, broken apart by the violence of war. As this letter goes to mailing, we in ISE are honoured to host a visiting delegation of Church Leaders from that place known familiarly to us as the “Holy Land”. We have heard first hand of their plight, their longing for an end to oppression and the restoring of peace and justice.

And so, in asking you in your different denominations in your particular place, to come together in a special service of prayer for Christian unity, bearing in mind Christ’s longing for the oneness of his church, I can find no better basis, no stronger encouragement today, than their plea to us to be in solidarity and prayer with them. It is a reminder to all of us that the world needs a more visible witness to reconciliation, justice, truth and koinonia.

I take this occasion to thank you for your continuing support of the Irish School of Ecumenics. Firmly ensconced now in Trinity College, our students following the Masters and PhD programmes are benefitting enormously from their study and practical preparation to play their part as ambassadors of reconciliation in their varied walks of life. Yet, we continue to struggle to sustain our range of community-based, church-related and ecumenical courses and events, in Northern Ireland, even as we plan to pilot a new programme in partnership with some parishes in the wider Leinster area. It is by faith rather than assurance that we dare to plough new furrows. So too, with sensitivity to the impact of the astringent economic conditions, and to the many pressing demands that churches are facing, I ask you once more to donate the proceeds of the collection at the service, whether you hold it at the traditional or alternatively chosen time.

As we pray for the peace of Jerusalem, may Christ, the Shalom of God be with you and yours this Christmas, and the Holy Spirit journey with you all throughout the coming year.

Yours sincerely

Dr Geraldine Smyth OP

Head of Irish School of Ecumenics

Development Office

Irish School of Ecumenics Trust

Trinity College Dublin

Milltown Park

Dublin 6

Phone: +353 (0)1 2601144 ext. 105

Direct Line: +353 (0)1 2180533

email: isedev@tcd.ie

Web:

http://www.tcd.ie/ise


Speaking of things ecumenical... Statement of Archbishop Michael Neary on the retirement of Bishop Richard Henderson, Church of Ireland Bishop of Tuam, Killala and Achonry to take up a new post in the diocese of Carlisle, Church of England (Bishop Henderson’s Anglican Diocese includes a large portion of our own Catholic Diocese)


Since 1998, we here in Ireland have been privileged to know and work closely with Bishop Richard Henderson. His departure to assume a new ministry in the diocese of Carlisle will be mourned, not only by his own people in the Church of Ireland but also by the faithful and clergy of our own Church.

He combined a very keen intellect with a wonderfully warm personality. As a scientist he was acutely aware of the importance of the dialogue between science and theology.

He combined word and witness in a most attractive way and this made him a very effective communicator of Christ’s message.

Ecumenism has been a very significant part of his ministry. This gentle, joyful and very reflective Bishop has been a great source of inspiration to all of us. I take this opportunity to wish him every blessing in his new responsibilities.

+ Michael Neary

A message from The Catholic Teachers Association

The Association of Catholic Teachers (ACT) is a group of primary teachers who seek to improve their teaching of the Catholic faith by sharing resources and ideas. If you are a primary teacher and would like to receive the monthly e-bulletin, which is full of useful resources and ideas-mail contact:

irishcatholicteachers@gmail.com

and you will be added to the contact list.

Youth Matters

1. World Youth Day 15th - 22nd August, 2011

Anyone interested in travelling to Madrid with the Galway Diocese?

Contact Siobhán Bradley at (091)565066.

2. Christmas Youth 2000 Retreat

Youth 2000 runs regular weekend residential retreats for 16-35 year olds as well as weekly prayer groups. Their next event, a National Christmas Retreat for Young People, takes place at Newbridge College, Newbridge, Co Kildare from Friday 17th to Sunday 19th December 2010. This retreat will be comprised of talks, prayer, sharing, games and craic and promises to be a great opportunity for young people from all around Ireland to explore their Catholic faith and make many new friends.

No charge for the weekend - donation only. Free buses available from some locations - all food provided - just bring a sleeping bag!

Contact Youth 2000 office 01 6753690 or 085 8289231 (from NI 07842881878)for information.

More information is available from

http://www.youth2000.ie/


Coming up in Croí Nua

1. HEALING LIFE’S HURTS

Celebrating the healing power of Advent

Saturday 18th, December 10.00 - 4.30p.m.

Facilitated by Helen Dorai Raj, Patsy Kelly MSC & Michael Screene MSC

2. PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS

Reflecting on Christmas especially with family in mind

Sunday 19th December 10.00 - 4.30p.m.

Facilitated by Eileen Kelly & Michael Screene MSC

(Eileen Kelly, mother and Director of Galway Diocesan Pastoral Centre will lead our reflection on Christmas with its rich associations with home and family)

3. CHRISTMAS SERVICE OF RECONCILIATION

“He will save his people from their sins...” (mt.1.21)

Monday 20th December 2010, 8.00p.m.

Facilitated by Croí Nua team

Welcome!

Venue: Croí Nua Centre, Rosary Lane, Taylor’s Hill, Galway (Opposite Scoil Róis)

Phone: (091)520960

Mobile: (087) 6833195

E-mail:
croinuacentre@eircom.net

Website:
http://www.croinua.com/


Prison Chaplains attack inhumane conditions behind prison walls

Prison chaplains have produced another grim report on conditions in the country’s prisons, saying violence and drug use continues to escalate in prisons and overcrowding is adding to inhumane conditions.

The report says “conditions in many of our prisons are an insult to the decency of any human being and an affront to the basic tenets of decency,” and they say a culture of conformity exists within the system which resists any criticism or challenge.

There are 27 prison chaplains, priests, religious and lay people, working in 14 prisons in Ireland. They work every day with men and women who are imprisoned, and their families.

Fr Ciarán Enright of the chaplaincy team in Arbour Hill Prison said, “It is frustrating and depressing to have to come out with similar reports year after year, with little or no sign of any positive action being taken by those in charge.” He said chaplains blame a politicisation of the criminal justice system, which is failing to address the real issue of crime and prevention.

Overcrowding got so bad this year that on one night during the summer 129 prisoners in Mountjoy had no beds to sleep in – and some did not even have a mattress to sleep on. In Wheatfield a 75 year old male prisoner was sleeping on a mattress on the floor. Up to four men can be placed in a cell with no toilet facilities - other than a chamber pot - the same space they have to live and sleep in.

The chaplains also highlight how leaks to the media concerning prisoners are destructive of their attempts to manage their sentences and to resettle in the community. They single out the management and leaks around the release of Larry Murphy as resulting in a “media circus” which fuelled fear and anxiety in society. The endangerment of a person’s life and the creation of unnecessary panic among the public is of concern to them. In another incident this year, some media were waiting outside a hospital when a prisoner was escorted to an outpatient appointment.

On violence they state prisoners are under threat from inside and outside prison walls and “the most common form of attack is to use a blade to slash a prisoner’s face, leaving a long and permanent scar, often from ear to mouth.”

St Patrick’s Institution for young people and children (16 to 21) is highlighted as a cause of serious concern. Chaplains say:

• St. Patrick's is in direct contravention of the UN convention on the rights of the child, which prohibits the imprisonment of children (under 18s) with adults.

• Protections, regulation and guidelines relating to children in institutional care do not apply in St Patrick’s.

• The Ombudsman for Children is explicitly prohibited from investigating complaints or allegation by young people in St Patrick’s

• One in four of the young prisoners are 'on protection' - locked up for 23 hours a day with nothing to do.

• The prison workshops for young people are described as “a waste of money providing no useful training”.

The report recommends the pressing need to explore non-custodial options for prisoners who have committed less serious offences. It concludes “Current prison policy is a disaster for both prisons and society. Making our prisons safer and drug free is in everyone’s interest. The only obstacle is political will.”

A full copy of the report is now available on

http://www.catholicbishops.ie/

And

http://www.dublindiocese.ie/

Further information:

Fr Ciarán Enright, Chaplaincy Team, Arbour Hill Prison (01) 459 3354, 00353 (0) 87 799 7297

Martin Long, Director of Communications 00353 (0) 86 172 7678

Brenda Drumm, Communications Officer 00353 (0) 87 310 4444


Kid’s Corner, Second Sunday of Advent

Click to zoom.
Copyright: http://www.redcoms.org/


Cian and Bella.

Matthew 3:1-12 • He will Baptise you with the Holy Spirit

Cian: Hi Bella, where were you yesterday?

Bella: We were at my new cousin Fionn’s baptism!

Cian: Cool! What was it like?

Bella: It was a lovely day. We all went to Dunboyne Church in Co Meath and his Mam Teresa and her Dad Gerard, oh and not forgetting his two big sisters Amy and Ruth welcomed us to celebrate Fionn’s baptism.

Cian: Was there anyone else there? Anyone with a football?!

Bella: Doh Cian! Yes actually his big cousin Jack was there with his rugby ball and other cousins were there too, in fact there were millions and zillions of them!

Cian: Sounds cool, the Gospel today is about being baptised with holy water and with the Holy Spirit. Did Fionn cry when the holy water was poured over him?

Bella: No, he smiled and Mam said that the Holy Spirit was pouring onto him with the Holy water so I reckon the Holy Spirit is warm!

Cian: Ha! That means that all of us who have been baptised are filled with the warm glow of the Holy Spirit.

How can you show others that you have been filled with the Holy Spirit since your baptism?

Don’t forget! This Sunday is the Monthly Mass for our First Communion Preparation Programme, Do this in Memory of Me, at the usual time of 11. Remember your candles!

New and Improved Diocesan Website with Reflection from Bishop Drennan.

The Diocesan Website is undergoing reconstruction, and new features are being added:

http://www.galwaydiocese.ie/

One we were telling you about today at Mass is Bishop Drennan's Weekly Reflection which is now live:

http://www.galwaydiocese.ie/reflection.html

Enjoy, and , remember, you'll always get a link to the Diocesan Website in the menu bar of this page.

Newsletter, First Sunday of Advent.

Mass intentions for the week ahead, 28th November 2010


Saturday 27th November

Vigil Mass 7.30 pm Bernard and Kathleen Cooke and Mary Hughes

Eileen Spellman

Pray also for Timothy Heaney (whose months mind occurs)

Pray for Damien Dalton at all Masses

Sunday 28th November 1st Sunday of Advent

9.30 am James Scally

11 am Matt O'Flaherty and Margaret Nolan

12.15 pm Teresa Kelly and May, Dan and Danny Carr.

6.30 pm Timmie Mannion and Tony Moran

Monday 29th November

10am Nora and Patrick Murphy and deceased members of

Fox and Murphy families.

Tuesday 30th November

10am For all the Sick and deceased members of Galway Flower

and Garden Club

Wednesday 1st December

10am John Chapman ( who died recently)


5.30 - 9.30 Indian Community Retreat


Thursday 2nd December

10am Pat Corcoran

Friday 3rd December

10am Nora, Patrick and Mary Heavey and all deceased members of

Heavey family.

Bridget Ward and living and deceased members of Ward and

Mongan families.

7.30 pm Carmel Griffin and Bridget, Ray and Edward Maloney.

Saturday 4th December

11 am Kathleen Ward (Months Mind Mass)

Vigil Mass 6.30 pm
N.B (Change of time, moved forward from 7:30 from this week on).

Bridget and Colman Hernon

Sunday 5th December 2nd Sunday of Advent

9.30 am Edward Fitzgerald and Mary Flood

11am Shane Rabbitte and John, Nora and Johnny Brennan.

12.15 pm Elizabeth Heenan and Robert Nolan

6.30 pm Bridget and Michael Corcoran Senior

Mattie and Kenneth Frawley


Coming up in The Pastoral Centre

1. World Youth Day

World Youth Day - Madrid 2011- Information Evening for all interested in attending this celebration. Please come along to the Diocesan Pastoral Centre on Wednesday 1st December 2010 at 7p.m.


2. Advent Reflections: "Waiting in Hope"

As a preparation for the feast of Christmas the Diocesan Pastoral Centre is offering a series of reflections during three Monday evenings in Advent.

Monday 29th November: Bishop Martin Drennan will lead the reflection.


Monday December 6th: Sr. Aileen Murphy and Kevin McNena


Monday December 13th: Jesuit Spirituality Team

Location: Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Newtownsmith,


Time: 8 p.m.


Event Date and Time:


Repeats every week until Mon Dec 13 2010


29 Nov 2010 - 8:00pm


Event Date and Time: 6 Dec 2010 - 8:00pm


Event Date and Time: 13 Dec 2010 - 8:00pm


http://www.pastoralcentre.ie/

(You’ll always get the link to the Pastoral Centre on the menu bar of this page)


Galway Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St. Nicholas

1. Galway Cathedral Gospel Choir looking for new members of all ages...Rehearsals every Wednesday at 7:30p.m.....all welcome

2. Beat the Budget: Liturgy of Hope on Tuesday 7th December in Galway Cathedral at 7:30p.m

3. Please support our Galway Cathedral Bookshop

Our Cathedral Bookshop has a huge selection of Cards, gift ideas, liturgical and spirituality books.

Open everyday

Please support! 091- 563577


Remembering our babies at Christmas

The Annual Mass remembering all babies who have died on or around the time of birth (stillbirth, neonatal, miscarriage) will be held this year on:

Sunday 5th December 2010


6 O’clock


The Chapel of St. Columbanus


NUI Galway


(University Chapel)

Parents, Grandparents, Siblings, family and friends are warmly invited to this special mass.

Contact : Róisín 087 8065366


Bishops to celebrate First Sunday of Advent by thanking God for gift of human life

The period in which we prepare for Christmas is an appropriate time to invoke divine protection on every human being called into existence, and to thank God for the gift of life we received from our parents - Pope Benedict XVI

Advent reminds us that we are living in in-between times, in a time of personal poverty, in expectation, in a time of hope. Advents reminds us that we are not in possession of the Kingdom, but that its fullness will be revealed to us when Jesus comes again - Bishop McAreavey

To mark the beginning of Advent, the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI will celebrate a Vigil for unborn human life in St Peter’s Basilica, Rome, this Saturday 27 November. Pope Benedict has asked that similar vigils take place throughout the world. These vigils will be celebrated in Ireland this weekend (see last weeks newsletter for the Galway Vigil taking place today, Saturday, November 27th)

The website of the Irish Bishops’ Conference

http://www.catholicbishops.ie/

is hosting a special feature for Advent and Christmas 2010. It details:

- The full schedule of Pope Benedict XVI’s Advent and Christmas 2010 celebrations in the Vatican

- Details of Worldwide Telecasts from the Vatican during Christmas and New Year 2010 - 2011

- Messages and Reflections from Irish bishops for Advent and Christmas 2010, including a video reflection from Bishop John McAreavey, Bishop of Dromore and Co-Chair of the Bishops' Council for Communications, on the importance of Advent

- A audio interview on the meaning of Advent with Fr Patrick Jones, Director, National Centre for Liturgy

- Details of initiatives and events in the Dioceses of Ireland

- Contributions from various commissions and agencies of the Bishops’ Conference, including an Advent and Christmas resource for families produced by the Bishops' Council for Marriage and the Family, which includes blessings for the Advent Wreath, Christmas Tree and the Crib in the home, and a family table prayer for Christmas Day.

Further information:

Martin Long, Director of Communications 00 353 (0) 86 172 7678


Concert at the Abbey

Galway Choir Master, Mark Keane will host a Christmas Concert at the Franciscan Abbey on Sunday, 5th December at 8pm. This Concert will narrate the story of the first Christmas Crib, of St. Francis of Assisi. All are welcome. Admission by donation. Proceeds to Abalta, School for Children with Autism, Knocknacarra & Newcastle. Please support this worthy cause.


The Gift Christmas Concert Dates:

17th Dec Jesuit Church 8pm


18th December Bushy Park Church 8pm


19th December St Josephs church 8pm


20th Eyre Sq. Shopping centre


21st December Aula Maxima NUIG 8pm


22nd December Renmore Church 8pm

Tickets €10 Contact


Keara Sheeran ~ 0879007003 (Musical Director )


Susan Treacy ~ 087432245


Jesuit Office 091 523707


Holy Family School Renmore 091 779979


Latin Mass

Galway, Kilmacduagh & Kilfenora Diocese: Sunday, 12 December – 3 pm Mass, St. Patrick’s Garrison Chapel, Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Renmore, Galway. Celebrant: Rev Wulfran Lebocq, ICRSS

John Heneghan, Latin Mass Society of Ireland: 086-8530810

http://www.latinmassireland.org/


Energy Efficiency in Historic Houses Seminar

The Irish Georgian Society is committed to informing owners and guardians of Ireland’s built heritage of the need to balance energy conservation and building conservation. This Galway seminar forms part of a series of regional Energy Efficiency in Historic Houses seminars, which the Irish Georgian Society is holding throughout the country. The seminars are held in partnership with local authority conservation officers and heritage officers. The seminars have been made possible through support from Electricity Supply Board (ESB), Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland (SEAI) and the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

A half-day seminar to be held at


The Lady Gregory Hotel, Ennis Road, Gort, Co. Galway


On Thursday 2nd December 2010


Presented by


Irish Georgian Society,


Galway County Council & Clare County Council


The Apostleship of Prayer

The Apostleship of Prayer is a way of praying that is rooted in life and a way of life that is rooted in prayer.

This colourful booklet contains:

An Introduction to the Apostleship of Prayer

Forms of the Daily Offering

A reflection on the Pope’s intentions for each month

A monthly liturgical calendar and

A Gospel reference for daily and Sunday Mass

LIVING PRAYER 2011


Price


€1.90/£1.70


(exc P&P)


Messenger Publications, 37 Lower Leeson Street, Dublin2, Ireland


T: +353 1 6767491


E: sales@messenger.ie


W: http://www.messenger.ie/


Take the chance of a lifetime and make a difference in the lives of others…
…and change your own life forever

Since 1960, Viatores Christi has aimed to respond to needs overseas and at home by giving people an opportunity to share their lives and skills with those in need. People from all backgrounds and professions join Viatores Christi - people who want to challenge themselves to make a difference in the world, however big or small. Right now, we need people from all disciplines, from teachers to electricians, doctors to administrators, farmers to childcare workers.

If you want to explore such a challenge, come and meet us in Galway on Saturday 4th December 2010 at 12.00 in the Westside Community Centre, (beside our church) Seamus Quirke Rd., Galway.

Kid's Corner, First Sunday of Advent

Click on poster to enlarge and print off

Copyright:

http://www.redcoms.org/

Sympathies, Mary Ryan, Kathy Ryan O'Connor, Helen Molloy, Finbarr O'Mahony, Tom Murphy, R.I.P.

Your prayers are asked today for the repose of the soul of Mary Ryan, 5 Cedarwood Close, Highfield Park and Colmcille Road who has died. Her remains will be reposing at her home tomorrow, Monday, from 5pm to 10. They will be removed on Tuesday morning to our church in time for her Funeral Mass at 11. Burial will take place afterwards in The New Cemetery, Bohermore.

Please pray too for the repose of the soul of Kathy Ryan O'Connor, Carn Ard, who died during the week, and whose Funeral Mass took place in St. Patricks.

Also, those who died recently:

Helen Molloy, Costello Road.
Finbarr O' Mahony, Hightfield Park.
Tom Murphy, who died in Cork.

'This day you will be with me in Paradise'.

Newsletter,November 21st, 2010.

This weekend we celebrate the Feast of Christ the King, and next weekend the First Season of Advent, the beginning of the Season of Advent, and the churches year. Advent is a season of hope, and let’s pray more earnestly now than ever for that hope after the trauma of the last week across our nation, economic meltdown, and the violent deaths in Ballycotton in Cork and Newcastle West in Limerick, coupled with continued carnage on our roads, and the rise of gangland violence, and the drugs epidemic. We need Christ to be our king, to plead to him for our nation, to put him back at the centre of our lives. In short, we want the hope that only Christ in his mercy can give.

We wish a Happy Feast Day to the Church of Christ the King in Salthill.


Mass intentions for the week ahead, 21st November 2010

Saturday 20th November

Vigil Mass 7.30 pm Nancy Murphy and Sean Tedders

Pray for Christopher O'Reilly at all Masses.

Sunday 21st November Feast of Christ the King

9.30 am Patrick and Agnes Burke

11am Keaveney family and Willie Creane

Children's Mass for Do this in Memory of Me Programme

12.15pm Willie Noone and Patricia Murphy

6.30 pm Billy and Grace Joyce and Maureen, Charlie and

Bunny Devlin.

Monday 22nd November

10am Bridget Thornton and Maureen Foley

Tuesday 23rd November

10am For all the Sick and Special Intention 'Michael'

Wednesday 24th November

10am Deceased members of King and Donohue families.

Rita Maloney and Sally O'Toole

Thursday 25th November

10am Sarah Walsh and Frances and Pat Maloney.

Friday 26th November

10am Deceased members of Madden family and

Maureen and Peter Hornibrook.

Deceased members of Wimms and Gannon families.

Saturday 27th November

Vigil Mass, First Sunday of Advent

7.30 pm Bernard and Kathleen Cooke and Mary Hughes

2. Eileen Spellman.

Sunday 28th November

9.30 am James Scally

11am Matt O'Flaherty and Margaret Nolan

12.15 pm Teresa Kelly and May, Dan and Danny Carr

6.30 Timmie Mannion and Tony Moran.


Tonight, Saturday, November 20th, in The Claddagh.

The Galway Faith and Light Community are holding a Musical Evening tonight in St. Mary’s Church, The Claddagh, at 8:30. This is a fundraiser to send people to Lourdes to join the International Faith and Light pilgrimage to Lourdes next summer.

The Faith and Light Community here in Galway brings together people with intellectual disabilities, their families and carers. It offers support throughout the year with regular gatherings, social events, training programmes and real friendship. The Faith and Light Communities are modelled on the insights, visions and programmes offered by Jean Vanier, founder of the international L’Arche Communities for people with special needs, and his helpers.

The concert will feature:

The Claddagh Church Choir


Delia Boyce


Gospel Singers


Wedding Group


Hildegarde Naughton


St. Patrick’s Brass Band


Glortha Dochias

'A Service of Hope, Glortha Dochias, will be held in St. Ignatius Church (The Jes) on the evening of the First Sunday in Advent, November 28th, at 8pm. This is a service of prayer and song for today's world. The guest speaker is Bishop Willie Walsh. There will be music, song and reflection. All are welcome.'

More details can be had from:

Mary McKeown


Killagoola


Moycullen


Co. Galway


Phone: 00 353 91 556838


Mobile: 00 353 87 203 5553


The Gift Christmas Concert Dates:

17th Dec Jesuit Church 8pm

18th December Bushy Park Church 8pm

19th December St Josephs church 8pm

20th Eyre Sq. Shopping centre

21st December Aula Maxima NUIG 8pm

22nd December Renmore Church 8pm

Tickets €10 Contact


Keara Sheeran ~ 0879007003 (Musical Director )


Susan Treacy ~ 087432245


Jesuit Office 091 523707


Holy Family School Renmore 091 779979


Preparing for the Eucharistic Congress in 2012.

"Christ gathers us as a Eucharistic Community" - A Time of Prayer and Reflection on the Sacrament of the Eucharist in preparation for the Eucharistic Congress facilitated by Fr. Barry Horan.

Time: Wednesday, 24th November, 7.30 p.m.


Venue: Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Árus de Brún, Newtownsmith, Galway.


All are welcome.

You'll find the link for the official website of the congress on the menu bar of this page, also that of the Pastoral Centre.


Travel to The Banner County to see The Lismorahaun Singers

The Lismorahaun singers launch the Christmas season with “A Mighty Messiah – all the choruses you can Handel “on Thursday 25th November at 8pm in Ennistymon Church. This fun and spirited performance of the best of Handel’s Messiah is geared for all the family.

Tickets 15 Euro single/ 40 Euro Family (2 adults and all family members under 18)


At Mooney’s, Ballyvaughan; Mulqueen’s Florist, Ennis; Jordan’s Lisdoonvarna and Crosbie’s Ennistymon.


Help Arthritis Ireland

This festive season , help provide much needed support for 1 in 5 people living with Arthritis by purchasing a pack of beautifully designed Arthritis Ireland Christmas cards.

Support this worthwhile cause by purchasing Arthritis Ireland Christmas cards online at

 http://www.arthritisireland.ie


Or by calling 01 6618188.


Prayer Vigil for Life

Pope Benedict XVI has requested that a Prayer Vigil for Life will take place in all Cathedrals throughout the world on 27th November 2010, the Eve of the First Sunday of Advent. In response to the Pope’s request the following service will take place:

Prayer Vigil for Life


Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St. Nicholas


Saturday 27 November 2010 at 4:30 PM


(Eve of the First Sunday of Advent)


Preside by Bishop Martin Drennan

Outline of Vigil:

Entrance Procession: The Rorate Caeli sung by Cathedral Choir.

The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed for veneration during the service.

Ave Verum sung by Cathedral Choir.

Sung Vespers, Evening Prayer 1, First Sunday of Advent. Vespers will be in English and the chanting of the psalms will be led by Cathedral Choir.

During Vespers, Bishop Drennan will preach a homily on the significance of the Vigil at the outset of the Liturgical Year.

After Vespers there will be a period of meditation on the dignity of human life. The Vigil of Prayer will conclude with Benediction.


Kid’s Corner with Cian and Bella

Don’t forget! This Sunday is the Monthly Mass for our First Communion Preparation Programme, Do this in Memory of Me, at the usual time of 11. Remember your candles!

Luke 23:35-43 • True

Bella: Hey Cian, what are you doing today?

Cian: Just hanging out, how about you Bells?

Bella: Know what, we were reading about the Gospel in school today and our teacher explained that it is really important to be true to God.

Cian: Well sure wouldn’t God know if you were not being true?

Bella: Yeah but that is not what she meant. Being true to God is about really spending time in prayer, even if it is only four minutes in the day, but giving that time and really appreciating the great love God has for each one of us. When Jesus was dying on the cross he still found it in his heart to hear what one of the criminals was saying and replied to him that his faith would bring him to God’s Kingdom. Deep faith takes time and truth. So spend time with God today Ciano and just think of all the love God has for you, … always!

Can you spend four minutes in prayer today!

http://www.veritas.ie/

Newsletter, November 14th 2010.

Remembrance Sunday.

We remember today all men and women of all traditions on the Island of Ireland who died in all the terrible wars of the 20th Century, all our United Nations Peacekeeping Troops, and those who died fighting for Irish freedom.

As Joseph Mary Plunkett, one of our fallen of the Easter Rising wrote:


I see his blood upon the rose

And in the stars the glory of his eyes,

His body gleams amid eternal snows,

His tears fall from the skies.

I see his face in every flower;

The thunder and the singing of the birds

Are but his voice—and carven by his power

Rocks are his written words.

All pathways by his feet are worn,

His strong heart stirs the ever-beating sea,

His crown of thorns is twined with every thorn,

His cross is every tree.


Mass Intentions for the week ahead, 14th November 2010.

Saturday 13th November Vigil Mass

7.30 pm 1. Paddy Francis and 2. Frank Tierney.

Sunday 14th November

9.30 am Joe Kennedy

11am Gerard Keaveney

12.15 pm 1. Tim and Lena Codyre, Frank Codyre and Margaret Mary Flaherty.

2. Frank Duffy and deceased members.

6.30 pm John, Johnnie and Ellen Brennan.

Monday 15th November

10 am Caitlin McCann and Bartley O'Connor.

Tuesday 16th November

10am For all the Sick and Special Intention

Wednesday 17th November

10am Mary Folan and Delia Hamell

5.30 - 8.30 pm Indian Community Mass

Thursday 18th November

10am Brian Fahy and Teresa Maloney

Friday 19th November

10am John and Margaret Salmon and deceased members of Dunne and Whelan families.

Saturday 20th November Vigil Mass

7.30 pm Nancy Murphy and Sean Tedders

Pray for Christopher O'Reilly at all Masses.

Sunday 21st November Feast of Christ the King

9.30 am Patrick and Agnes Burke

11am Do this in Memory of Me Mass for First Communion Children.

Keaveney family and Willie Creane

12.15 pm Willie Noone and Patricia Murphy

6.30 pm Billy and Grace Joyce and Maureen, Charlie and Bunny Devlin


Spirit Radio is launching in Galway!

My name is Áine Carvill. I’m a parishioner from St Andrew’s Westland Row, Dublin and since 2005 I have been a core member of the 2nd Chance Saturday Mass group which came about to try and encourage folks who have become distanced or disengaged from faith and church to give God a 2nd Chance. This morning however, I’m contacting you from my day job with my other hat on; from the promotions department of Spirit Radio.

We are Ireland’s first Christian radio station; meaning a radio station for all Christian traditions to promote Christ’s message on air through gospel reflections, discussions, interviews, music, a playlist which includes everything from reflective, sacred, folk, gospel and contemporary Christian rock including a balance of mainstream as well, not to mention the usual news, sport, weather, traffic etc.

I really wanted to let you know that we are just 8 weeks from launching on the National airwaves. We have been online up till now for the last couple of years and in January we are launching in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford cities on an FM signal and within 18 months we will be rolling this out nationally to elsewhere in the country.

After months of preparation, the excitement is building, it’s finally happening and naturally we would like to make it as successful as possible and we are really hoping for your support. Ideally what we would like is:

At 8pm on December 1st we are having a meet and greet in An Tobar Nua, Dominick Street Lower, Galway. to tell our story and answer any questions that volunteers or our future listeners may have - I’m sure you know of a bank of people already, perhaps through the Parish Council, Legion of Mary, St Vincent de Paul, various parish youth groups etc I’m hoping that you might encourage them to come along and meet us and it would be great if you yourself were free on the evening of Wednesday December 1st.

http://www.spiritradio.ie/


Support Aware- Support people suffering from depression.

On Saturday December 11th the Aware Christmas 10km will be taking place in the Phoenix Park Dublin at 10am.

Aware is the national voluntary organisation that supports those who are affected by depression. The money raised from the Christmas Fun Run will go directly towards developing and maintaining our services. These include a loCall helpline 1890 303 302, support groups nationwide, a schools’ education programme, ‘Beat the Blues’ talks and lectures, literature and on-going research into the causes and treatment of depression.

I hope you will consider supporting Aware this Christmas.

Aware

72 Leeson Street, Dublin 2

Tel: 01 661 7211; Dir 01 237 4907; Fax: 01 661 7217

Our website:

http://www.aware.ie/

'Like' us on Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/AwareIreland

Follow us on Twitter:

http://www.twitter.com/AwareIreland

LoCall 1890 303 302


MESSAGE FOR PRIESTS AND FAITHFUL.

Various misunderstandings about the tradition of Mass offerings and clear dangers of exploitation of the Mass can easily emerge. For this reason, the Irish Bishops wish to make clear the Church’s position on Mass Offerings. The following is a brief summary of the Church’s teaching and regulation regarding Mass Offerings.

1. The Eucharist, the ‘source and summit of the Christian life,’ is at the heart of our belief, for it preserves the great mystery of our redemption in Jesus Christ. Therefore anything that might weaken or undermine our respect for the Eucharist must be avoided.

2. The practice of giving an offering dates back to the early Church when the faithful brought bread and wine for the Mass and other gifts for the support of the priest and for the poor. Nowadays a Mass offering is a way for the donor to join him/herself to the sacrifice of the Mass; it unites the donor closely with the life and apostolic activity of the Church, the Body of Christ, as the offering becomes a form of material support for the Church’s ministers and pastoral life. The Mass must never be an occasion for ‘buying and selling’ or ‘making money’, nor should there be even the slightest appearance of making a profit from Mass offerings.

3. Normally a separate Mass is celebrated for each individual offering, however small. The donor specifies the individual intention and it is up to the donor to decide what amount to give. Because donors may sometimes ask how much it is appropriate to give, a current recommended diocesan offering is specified; (this amount is agreed by the Bishops at provincial level). A priest may accept less than the recommended offering — and many priests on occasion do.

4. The priest who receives the offering has an obligation to apply Mass for the specific intention of the person who has made the offering. He is to celebrate a Mass within a reasonable time. Irrespective of how many Masses he celebrates in a day, a priest may only keep an offering for one Mass per day. If a priest receives too many Mass intentions he must transfer any surplus Mass

offerings, in total, to another priest; (normally these offerings will be sent to priests working in needy areas).

5. The Church does not encourage ‘collective’ or ‘multi-intentional’ Masses but sees these as an exception. In these exceptional cases, the following must apply:

a) It must be made explicitly clear to the donor beforehand that the offering is being combined into a single Mass offering and the donor must give free consent to this.

b) The place, date and time for this Mass should be indicated publicly and such Masses may not be celebrated any more than two days weekly in any church.

c) The priest who celebrates Mass for a collective intention must not keep any more than the specified diocesan offering, and must transfer any additional amount, in accordance with canon law, for the purposes prescribed by the Bishop/Provincial.

6. Having signed or stamped Mass Cards for sale to the public in shops and other commercial outlets is a practice that is not approved by the Irish Episcopal Conference, the Major Religious Superiors or the Superiors of Missionary Societies. It undermines a correct Eucharistic Theology and is unacceptable. We ask that this practice, wherever it exists, be discontinued.

7. We strongly encourage the donor, where possible, to participate in the Mass. We recommend that the intention for which the Mass is being especially offered is mentioned in the Prayer of the Faithful. Of course the Mass is not exclusively for this intention - every Mass is offered for all people, especially those in need.

The Church’s norms and regulations about Mass offerings are clearly set out in the 1983 Code of Canon Law and in the 1991 Decree Mos Iugiter.


Monastic Weekend?

Monastic Weekend coming soon for any person who is interested in our way of life.

Please write or email us with your name and contact details and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Email

theholychild1@eircom.net

Mother Prioress,

St Joseph’s Monastery,

Mount Carmel,

Loughrea,

Co. Galway.


Kids’ Corner with Cian and Bella.

Don’t forget! Next Sunday, November 21st at 11 is the time and date for our Monthly Do this in Memory of Me Monthly Mass preparing for First Holy Communion.


Luke 21:5-19 • It’s Not Easy!

Cian: Hi there Bella. What are you laughing to yourself about?

Bella: I’m just laughing at Granny, she is always mumbling about Granddad, and then she says, ‘It’s not easy’ out loud, Granddad just laughs and winks at me! So, where are you coming from?

Cian: Stayed late at school to help with the Christmas concert practice. Oh and we did the Sunday Gospel in RE if you want to know what Sunday’s Gospel is about.

Bella: Too late we did it too! Actually the message this week is like Granny and Grandad, ‘It’s not easy’! All the faith stuff can be hard y’know and trying to make time for prayer and all can be tough going!

Cian: Yeah, but your Granny and Grandad are still together and still happy, so faith, like everything that means a lot to us, needs to be worked at and worked for, to help it stay strong and true!

What does your faith really mean to you? Think about that today!