30 June 2011

Counselling Course/ Cúrsa Chomhairleoireacht.

Foundation Course in Psychotherapy/ Counselling Skills at Castlebar Counselling and Therapy Centre. One year part-time evening course. Commencing October 2011. Suitable for Lay People, Priests and Religious. Limited number of places. Application Forms and Brochures: The Administrator, Castlebar Counselling and Therapy Centre.

094- 9028746

http://www.dctc.ie

castlebarpsychotherapy at eircom.net

Pat Guerin, R.I.P.

Your prayers are asked today for the repose of the soul of Pat Guerin, Highfield Park, Retired Sgt, Formerly of Ballyheigue, Co. Kerry. Reposing at the O'Flaherty Funeral Parlour, Munster Avenue tomorrow, Friday, from 5.30pm with removal at 7.30pm to our church. Funeral after 11am Mass on Saturday to Rahoon Cemetery. Donations, if desired, to The Parkinson’s Association of Ireland. House Private.

'Be still, my soul: your best, your heavenly friend, Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end'. (From the hymn, Be Still My Soul).

29 June 2011

The Congress Bell is coming to Sacred Heart.

The Congress Bell, travelling the length of and breath of Éire to call people to renewal and announce the International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin in 2012,  is coming to our diocese next week from July 4th to the 10th, and to Sacred Heart on Thursday evening, July 7th, from 7 PM to 10 PM. The visit will include prayers and Adoration, and Monsignor Malachy will be talking more about this important visit at all Masses this weekend.

Kathleen Walsh, R. I.P.

Your prayers are asked today for Kathleen Walsh née Egan, Dangan Upper, Rahoon who has died in her 97th year.
Kathleen will be reposing at Irwin’s Funeral Home, Bóthar Irwin tomorrow Thursday from 5. Her removal will be at 7 to St. Joseph’s Church, Presentation Road. Funeral Mass for Kathleen Walsh will take place on Friday at 11, burial afterwards to Rahoon Cemetery. Family flowers only by request. Donations, if desired, to Order of Malta, Henry Street.

“This is the Lord for whom we looked; let us rejoice and be glad that he has saved us!”
(Isaiah 25)

News/ Nuacht, Feast of Saints Peter and Paul.

Happy Diamond Ordination and Congratulations and Blessing to His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI



The webmaster is going to Lourdes on the Diocesan Pilgrimage on Friday, hence this weeks newsletter is early. I'll be praying for you all!

June 29th, Feast of Saints Peter and Paul


Apostolic Blessing from Pope Benedict XVI on the occasion of Ireland’s National Eucharistic Congress




Please see below the special message of Pope Benedict XVI, which was issued on behalf of the Holy Father by Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, on the occasion of Ireland’s National Eucharistic Congress in Knock on 25 and 26 June.

The Holy Father was pleased to learn of the celebration of the Irish National Eucharistic Congress and he sends his warm and prayerful best wishes to you and to the Bishops, priests, religious and lay faithful of Ireland.  His Holiness is spiritually united to all who, through prayerful reflection on the Eucharist, offer adoration, thanksgiving and praise to the living God for the saving sacrifice of Christ on the Cross, renewed in the celebration of every Holy Mass.  He is confident that the frequent and worthy reception of the Bread of Life will guide all who, especially in this time of renewal, walk together the path of conversion, in truth, justice and charity, pursuing the gift of purification from sin by seeking and offering pardon and by strengthening the bonds of reconciliation and communion.  He prays that by drawing nourishment from this Sacrament, their whole life will become, with Christ, an offering to God (cf. Sacamemtum Caritatis 71).  Commending all the faithful people in Ireland to the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church, the Holy Father cordially imparts his Apostolic Blessing.

Points from Homily of the Primate of All Ireland, Cardinal Brady, at the National Eucharistic Congress in Knock:

·  “may this National Eucharistic Congress, and the International Congress next year, help to bring healing to the social, economic, spiritual and moral wounds that have so deeply afflicted our country and Church in recent times”


 ·        bishops and priests anoint the sick before Mass in the Basilica: “May these days of grace bring healing, strength and peace to us all”

 ·        “my hope is that those who have drifted away from regular Mass will hear the simple request of Jesus: Do this in memory of me”

 ·        thanks young people for attending and encourages use of social media to invite others to be part of Ireland’s preparations for the International Eucharistic Congress 2012

 ·        welcomes Saint Joseph’s Young Priests Society to Knock and thanks the Society for its many years of support for seminarians

 ·        “Jesus is gentle and merciful and loving. He understands the weakness of the human condition. He reaches out to us with compassion and a love that heals. But Jesus is also challenging.  He is not afraid to confront us about our laziness, our selfishness and our sin.  He does so - He calls us to conversion - because these things hold us back from experiencing the fullness of life God wants us to have.  This is the fullness of life that comes from our immersion in the Word of life and in the Eucharist – the Bread of Life”.

Read the full address on:


Also, on the above website read:
Bishops congratulate Pope Benedict XVI on the 60th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood
1. Today, 29 June, the Feast day of the Apostles Saints Peter and Paul, marks the 60th anniversary of the ordination of Pope Benedict XVI to the priesthood. See on the site a statement of congratulations from Cardinal Seán Brady, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland.
2. Derry’s four Church leaders mark opening and blessing of the new Peace Bridge.
3. Council for Justice and Peace opposes cuts to Sunday pay.  
There is a bus going to this rally from Galway, from The University, NUIG/ UCG at 9:30 on the day. Please ring 087- 6217702 for more details.

This summer, the most important date on the pro-life calendar is 2nd July. That’s when we hope you join with thousands of others to speak up for the right to life. Meet us at the Garden of Remembrance, Parnell Square @ 2pm.

Ireland - north and south - is one of the last remaining places in Europe where abortion is still illegal. But our unborn children are under threat. Powerful pro-abortion campaigners in Ireland, the UK, European Union and United Nations are attacking our pro-life laws. That’s why it’s so important we show our opposition to abortion. On 2nd July 2011 lets do that!

They Say......

"Life is our most precious gift. "The All-Ireland Rally for Life" is a celebration of life. To attend or take part in it in any way is a worthwhile endeavour to pursue as Catholics. We stand up for God's gift of life."

Philip Boyce O.C.D. Bishop of Raphoe

“His Holiness will remember you and your associates in his prayers, and invokes upon you God’s abundant blessings.”
Message to the Rally for Life from the Vatican Secretary of State

"The people of the Diocese of Clogher are happy to join you in celebrating and cherishing the gift of life in all its forms and wish every success to your Rally for Life on 2 July in Dublin.
Liam S. MacDaid, Bishop of Clogher

I commend the All Ireland Rally for Life Committee on the marvellous work you are doing. Supporting the fundamental right of life for the unborn child is so important and it is good to gather people to celebrate the precious gift of life. I send you my best wishes as you celebrate the Rally for Life, in Dublin on 2 July 2011, and wish the event every success.

+Seán Brady, Archbishop of Armagh

Many thanks for your letter describing the atmosphere, success and enthusiasm generated by last July’s “Rally for Life” celebration in Belfast. I am confident that this year’s rally in Dublin on 2nd July will be equally successful in highlighting the sanctity of human life from conception to natural death.

Modern western culture has enshrined and secured many just liberties for peoples from many various faith and culture backgrounds but those liberties, when they contravene gospel values, cannot be accepted if they compromise and endanger the very essence of our common humanity, the right to life. I am happy and honoured to give my unequivocal support to this year’s “Rally for Life” in Dublin on 2nd July

+Noel Treanor, Bishop of Down and Connor


Thanks you for your letter of 13th of May 2011. In a rapidly changing society one of the values we need to uphold with constant vigilance is respect for life at every stage of its existence. Life is a very precious gift. It deserves reverence, nurturing, protection. I support those values and I support those who share these ideals. May I wish every blessing on your rally in Dublin in 2nd July. I hope that it will, like last year, be a festive occasion, a true celebration of the great gift of life that God has given us.

+Martin Drennan, Diocese of Galway

Feast of St. Oliver Plunkett, Irish Bishop and Martyr, July 1st


The Church in Renmore, in our diocese, is dedicated to St. Oliver Plunkett, and was opened the year of his canonisation, 1975.  There is a reliquary in the church which is lovely to visit.

HELP THOSE AFFECTED BY THE DEATH OF A BABY

Feileacain (stillbirth and Neonatal Death Association of Ireland) a support group for anyone affected by the loss of a baby through stillbirth or neo-natal death, Parents night, Tuesday the 12th July at 7:30 in the Harbour Hotel Galway.

All are welcome. For further info:

Web:

http://www.feileacain.ie

E-mail: info at feileacain.ie

Warm Regards,
Jacinta Murphy (0877956652)

Are Your Church Statues Chipped? Missing Fingers? Faded?
We professionally restore and paint Church Statues throughout Ireland. Recent work include Gardiner Street Church and St. Mary's Pro Cathedral in Dublin, Knock Shrine and Fr. Peyton Memorial Centre, Co. Mayo to name but a few! You can view our work on our web site


(Artwork as seen on RTE's Nationwide). We carry out all work in the old tradition way by hand and we mix our own colours and realistic skin tones. Our prices are also realistic and we offer free advice and all quotations are given without obligation.

SPECIAL OFFERS:

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 Church Statue restoration and Painting

Restoration of Crib Statues

Stations of the Cross

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CONTACT: Matt Doyle now and book your restorations date now!

Mobile:  087 2316645
Web Site:

(Under Statue Painting)

Youth News

ONE YEAR COURSE in YOUTH MINISTRY beginning in the Galway Diocesan Pastoral Centre  on 24th/25th September 2011. The Youth Ministry Studies Programme is open to anyone who has ability and an interest in working with and journeying with young people in a parish, school or college setting. 

Check out


For more details and contact: Siobhain Bradley on 091-565066 for an application form.

YOUTH 2000 Clonmacnoise Summer Festival is a FREE four day event for youth aged 16-35.
It brings together young people to grow in faith, friendship and have some fun.

For more information contact Siobhain Bradley on:

091-565066

Or check out


Support the Galway branch of the MS Society
The Galway branch of MS Annual City church gate takes place on the weekend of the 9th and 10 of July. Please support.
Check out:


For more information on the good work being done by this charity to combat Multiple Sclerosis

A Message from Age Action
Are you 60+ years of age? Have you a small repair job which you would like to have done for you? The Care and Repair programme (run by Age Action Ireland) uses a pool of trustworthy volunteers and handy persons to carry out minor repairs for older people. All volunteers are vetted and carry official Care and Repair identification cards. The service is free; you only pay for the materials used. For your bigger jobs, we maintain a register of reliable and honest tradespersons. We are also accepting requests for small gardening jobs. You can arrange to have a job done for you by phoning the Age Action Care and Repair number which is

091 527831.

 Thank you very much for your support.
Regards,

Liam Carolan, Intern at Age Action West/Small Crane/Galway

Tel: 091 527831/Fax: 091 527828
Email: aaw at eircom.net

Website:
http://www.ageaction.ie

Would you like to support Age Action and our Fundraising?  Check our website link above for details on the Ladies Mini Marathon
Positive Ageing Week 23 September to 1 October 2011

Join Age Action and support Positive Ageing
Age Action is a charity which promotes positive ageing and better policies and services for older people. Working with, and on behalf of, older people We aim to make Ireland the best place in the world in which to grow older.

26 June 2011

Sympathies +

Please pray for the repose of the souls of the following:
Fr. Aidan McLoughlin, Carmelite Order, Knocktopher, Co. Kilkenny, and late of Cross Street, the brother of our late Bishop, James McLoughlin.

Joe McGuinn, Coventry, the brother of Christy McGuinn, Friars Hill.

Raymond Rooney, Kingston, whose anniversary occurs.

Sr. Angela Lawless, Dominican Convent, Taylors Hill whose anniversary occurs
(Sr. Angela played the organ on Saturday nights in our church for many years).

'But the souls of the upright are in the hands of God, and no torment can touch them.
To the unenlightened, they appeared to die,
their departure was regarded as disaster,
their leaving us like annihilation;
but they are at peace'. (Wisdom 3:1)

25 June 2011

Corpus Christi/ Féile Chorp Chríost

Corpus Christi/ Féile Chorp Chríost



Watch this space! The Eucharistic Congress Bell is coming to Galway and Sacred Heart from July 4th to the 10th



The Eucharistic Congress Bell is a key symbol of the 50th International Eucharistic Congress. From its origins in the Dominican Convent of Portstewart, Co. Derry the Bell was more recently used to ring in the Jubilee Year 2000 in Glendalough, Co. Wicklow.

The Bell will reflect the invitation to faith, to prayer, to reconciliation and to mission which has always been important in our Christian tradition and is no less so today. The pilgrimage of the Bell throughout the Dioceses of Ireland, and beyond, will be a vehicle to:
  • Invite people to deepen their communion with Christ and with one another
  • Promote the pastoral aims of the Congress
  • Invite all Christians to join in giving a common witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ in an increasingly secular society
  • Animate the people of your Diocese to become involved with the Eucharistic Congress both locally and nationally
  • Invite people to come to the Congress from June 10th to 17th 2012
There is a strong emphasis on the inclusion of young people in the Eucharistic Congress Bell Pilgrimage however it is not exclusively a youth project. The pilgrimage should include the infirm, senior members of the community, and an outreach to the families and of the children preparing for sacraments (Baptism, Confirmation, and Communion).

Mass Intentions for the Week Ahead

Saturday 25th June
Vigil Mass 6.30 pm Stephen Griffin and Mary and Martin Curran
Pray for Ray Rooney at all Masses this weekend.
Sunday 26th June Corpus Christi
9.30 am Peter Cooke and Mickey Sullivan
11.00 am Paddy and Mary Lenihan and Marty Lee
Tom Daly.
12.15 pm Gillian Moloney Bocxe
6.30 pm Gerard Thornton
Monday 27th June
10am Winnie Mongan
Tuesday 28th June
10am For all the Sick and James Lee
Wednesday 29th June Sts Peter and Paul
10am Intention free
Thursday 30th June
10am Intention free
Friday 1st July Feast of the Sacred Heart
10am Fr. Anthony Hoade
Saturday 2nd July Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Vigil Mass 6.30 pm Nicholas Conneely and Margaret and Anthony Lynch
Sunday 3rd July
9.30 am Intention free
11am Delia Delaney
12.15 pm Kathleen and Edward Diviney
6.30 pm Intention free

TODAY! National Eucharistic Congress in Knock

Our parish bus left at 11:50 AM!



· Thousands expected at major All Ireland Church celebration ahead of the 50th International Eucharistic Congress in Ireland in 2012
All roads lead to Knock this weekend for the National Eucharistic Congress at Knock Shrine. The Catholic Church in Ireland is marking the one-year countdown to next year’s International Congress by hosting a National Eucharistic Congress in Knock on 25 June next. Thousands of people from parishes all over the country will travel to Knock to take part in special events, workshops, celebrations and prayer. The Knock Youth Festival is also running at the same time as the National Eucharistic Congress.
The celebration in Knock is a chance to focus on the local community and the pastoral preparation in Ireland for the International Eucharistic Congress next year. The International Congress is not just a once-off week of events in 2012, but a journey of renewal. This is an opportunity to remind ourselves that we are part of something bigger than ourselves and to do something together – in communion – as one body.

Catholic bishops, trustees and managers submissions to the Forum on Patronage
and Pluralism in the Primary Sector

The Forum on Patronage and Pluralism in the Primary Sector was opened today by Mr Ruairi Quinn TD, the Minister for Education and Skills. The forum's public working sessions, which continue until 24 June, are taking place in the Clock Tower conference room in the Department of Education and Skills, Marlborough Street, Dublin.
Submission to the Advisory Group by the Council for Education of the Irish Episcopal Conference
Introduction

The Forum on Patronage and Pluralism in the Primary Sector established by the Minister for Education and Skills is a most notable and welcome development. The large number of Catholic primary schools in Ireland amidst a changed social and cultural landscape has given rise to questions about parental choice and has highlighted the need for greater diversity in education provision. As we look to a shared future in our democratic society it is important that all citizens are well served by our education system. We are committed to the common good and this includes the requirement to facilitate parental choice with regard to schools where this is practicable. Schools are among the most essential of all social realities so it is important that all stakeholders be involved in planning their future.

The Church has been engaged for a number of years in ongoing reflection on education in Ireland, having published a policy paper on future provision in 20071, its vision for Catholic education in 20082, and a report on factors influencing parental school choice, also in 20083. In 2010 the Department of Education and Skills produced data on areas for possible divesting of some Catholic schools. The Bishops’ Education Council responded to this by outlining a three step process that the Catholic Schools Partnership would undertake in the period August 2010-September 2011:

• Further qualitative analysis of parental understandings of patronage;

• The publication of a position paper and the invitation to individuals and organisations to respond;

• Internal consultation within the Church with parents, patrons, teachers, priests, pastoral council members, pupils, interview assessors, trustees and managers.

The results of these processes were analysed at four regional assemblies held in June 2011 with representatives from all dioceses. The Catholic Schools Partnership will now begin to draw the various strands of its consultation process together and then present the findings of its research to the broader public.

Read More at


All proceedings from the forum are on the website of the Department of Education and Skills at the following link:


Irish Youth Choir in concert

Irish Youth Choir 2011 comprises 80 of Ireland’s finest young voices, selected through a rigorous national auditioning process. This summer, they will perform a stunning a cappella programme of sacred music together with some well-loved Percy Grainger pieces marking the anniversaries of Ciconia, Victoria, Mahler and Grainger.

Date: Friday 1st July 2011

Time: 8.00pm

Location: Triskel Christchurch, Cork

Tickets: 021 4272022, www.triskelartscentre.ie or at the door on the night, group rates available.

Date: Saturday 2nd July 2011

Time: 8.00pm

Location: St Mary’s Cathedral, Bridge St., Limerick

Tickets: 061 331549 or www.uch.ie or at the door on the night, group rates available.

Date: Sunday 3rd July 2011

Time: 8.00pm

Location: St Patrick’s Cathedral, Kevin St., Dublin

Tickets: 061 331549 or www.uch.ie or at the door on the night, group rates available.

Further information

Liz Kelly, tel: 061 234823 or email: aoic@ul.ie

Information on Irish Youth Choir & 2011 Season


The Irish Youth Choir was founded in Cork in 1982 to provide an opportunity for young Irish singers to increase their musical skills, to sing together under the direction of professional conductors and tutors, and to perform demanding and rewarding choral works to the highest possible standard.
A mixed voice choir, IYC is composed of up to 80 of Ireland's finest young singers aged from 18 to 28. Following a rigorous annual audition process, the choir meets for an intensive rehearsal course in the summer under the expert tuition of the Artistic Director, Greg Beardsell, and a team of tutors and vocal coaches. IYC has inspired many young people to enter professional careers as soloists, conductors, teachers and musicians and has allowed others to perform chorally at a national and international level.

ONE YEAR COURSE in YOUTH MINISTRY beginning in the Galway Diocesan Pastoral Centre on 24th/25th September 2011.
The Youth Ministry Studies Programme is open to anyone who has ability and an interest in working with and journeying with young people in a parish, school or college setting. Check out


Or contact Siobhain Bradley on 091-565066 for an application form

GALWAY SHREDDIES PARKS TENNIS

Tennis for all boys and girls 6-14 years of age at Westside, Crestwood, Knocknacarra and Doughiska community tennis courts July 4th – 29th
Join for €25 and receive one hour of coaching (by age) every weekday for four weeks.  Registration is at each court on Friday July 1st at 4-6pm. All children welcome.

Tel 528891


RTÉ’s The Genealogy Road show

RTÉ’s The Genealogy Road show is coming to Glenlo Abbey on Sunday June 26th- 12.30pm - 6pm

Do you think you might be related to someone famous or infamous?

Could you be connected to a big event in local history?

Or do you need to solve a family secret?

The Genealogy Roadshow is a brand new series for RTÉ Television presented by Derek Mooney and it is coming to Glenlo Abbey Co. Galway on Sunday June 26th 2011.

If you’re interested in television production there will be a full crew in operation. You’ll see first hand how a television show is made. If history is your thing, then this is your chance to see historians at work with the public. You be able to chat to historians and genealogists and ask questions.

The Road show’s crack historical and genealogical team will help people find extraordinary stories in their family as well as giving free advice on how to track down a family history. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet with experts in the field and fill in the blanks revealing the true story of your ancestors. 

The Genealogy Road show is looking for people from across Ireland who are interested in finding the missing pieces in their family tree, to be featured in the programme.

If you think you fit the bill, or would just like to attend the Road show, Big Mountain Productions want to hear from you.

You can submit family information by filling in the online form at

Be sure to include your stories, letters, photographs, birth certificates, and details of heirlooms that might be useful.

The series is being produced by Big Mountain productions for RTÉ. Please feel free to contact Kate at 086 237 5499 or


A Message from Barnardos

Here at Barnardos, we are very excited that summer has finally arrived! We have lots of fun summer activities and events for you to get involved in over the coming weeks. Why not join the huge number of pre-schools, primary schools, crèches and families who have signed up for this year’s Danone Big Toddle for Barnardos? Toddles have begun to take place and they will continue all over the country throughout the summer months!

For the older 'toddlers' out there, why not join us for this year's New York marathon in November? Now is the time to get training! Or for a very different kind of racing challenge, why not take part in the Mud Run in Limerick on June 18th!


Celebrate Creation Time!

1st September to 4th October 2011

Churches in Ireland are encouraged to join with Christians throughout the world by celebrating Creation during Creation Time on at least one Sunday, or over the five weeks.

This year's theme is Our Daily Bread - Food in God's Creation and churches are encouraged to focus on the role of food in God’s creation and in our lives.

A wide range of resources, including sermon outlines and intercessory prayers, are free to download from the Churches Together in Britain and Ireland website


Eco-Congregation Ireland (ECI), a project of the Irish Inter-Church Meeting’s Church in Society Forum, was involved in preparing these resources, which also include a service with accompanying Power Point, group study notes, harvest festival ideas and background information on food and agriculture.
Creation Time is an opportunity each year for churches to celebrate creation and consider how they care for the earth. It grew out of a resolution adopted by the European Christian Environmental Network (ECEN) in 1999, which recommended that churches consider and promote the preservation of creation as part of church life at all levels. The rationale behind the initiative was that "Commitment to preservation of the creation is not an issue among many others but an essential dimension of all church life."

The Third European Ecumenical Assembly held in Sibiu in 2007 concluded with the recommendation "that the period from 1 September to 4 October be dedicated to prayer for the protection of Creation and the promotion of sustainable lifestyles that reverse our contribution to climate change".
The World Council of Churches supports these resolutions and promotes the observance of Creation Time throughout the globe. The Irish Catholic Bishops' pastoral reflection, Cry of the Earth, also recommends the observance of Creation Time and encourages all parishes to sign up to an environmental programme, like Eco-Congregation Ireland.

ECI encourages churches to adopt an eco approach to worship, lifestyle, community outreach and contact with the developing world. It offers resources and practical suggestions for churches and individual Christians who wish to live out their vocation to care for God’s Creation as part of their Christian faith. For further information see
www.ecocongregationireland.org.

Kind regards,
Fiona Murdoch, Communications Officer, Eco-Congregation Ireland. Tel:+353 (0)86 1706923

Catherine Brennan SSL, chairperson and Roman Catholic representative ~

catherine.brennan@ecocongregationireland.org
+353 (01) 4928240)

Rev Elaine Murray, Church of Ireland representative ~ emit@eircom.net +353 (0)87 2363100
Joe Furphy, Presbyterian representative ~ joe.furphy@ecocongregationireland.org +44 (0)28 9061 2311

Helen Shiel, Methodist representative ~ helen.shiel@ecocongregationireland.org +353 (0)86 3871688
Catherine O'Dea, Religious Society of Friends representative ~ catherine.odea@virgin.net +353 (01) 2967958

18 June 2011

Trinity Sunday/ Domhnach na Tríonóide.

Trinity Sunday/ Domhnach na Tríonóide


The Following Article is COPYRIGHT.
Jack Mc Ardle
And that's the Gospel truth
www.columba.ie

Parable

The Trinity, of course, is pure mystery, and there is no way, through use of a three-leafed shamrock, or any other sign or symbol, that I can hope to explain a mystery; and this one, in particular. However, some of the following ideas may help. I have a glass of water, a glass filled with ice cubes, and a third glass filled with snow. In actual fact, each glass contains water in some different form or condition. God is spoken of as 'Father', because he is the source of life. He reaches out two arms of love to embrace and draw his children to himself. The first arm is Jesus. Jesus did what he was sent to do, and then he returned to the Father. The Father then sent the Spirit (the second arm), to complete the work begun by Jesus. Jesus paid the price to free us from bondage and slavery, and the Spirit leads us out into freedom from that same bondage and slavery. 'The Spirit will lead you into truth, and the truth will set you free.' It can help to think of the Trinity in terms of being embraced by God. After all,  it is our eternal destiny to share in the 1ife of the Trinity for all eternity.

Mass intentions for the week ahead 19th June 2011

Saturday 18th June

Vigil Mass 6.30 pm Bertie Collins

Sunday 19th June Trinity Sunday

9.30 am Teresa Coyne and Margaret Coyne
11 am Delia and James Rabbitte
12.15 pm Eileen and Patrick Guinnane and William O'Connor
6.30 pm Michael Francis.

Monday 20th June

10am Elizabeth Keane and Mary Anne Joyce

Tuesday 21st June

10am For all the Sick and George O'Hagan (recently deceased)
and deceased members of O'Hagan family.

Wednesday 22nd June

10am Paddy, Mattie and Christy Lally and deceased members of
the Lally family.

Thursday 23rd June

10am Eugene Wims and deceased members of the family

St. John’s Eve, a traditional evening of music and fire in Éire, dating back to the Celts,
Relating to The Solstice, and Christianised by the Church after Christianity came to our country,
Symbolising Christ the Light of the World


Friday 24th June Birth of John the Baptist

10am Patrick O'Donohue

Saturday 25th June

Vigil Mass 6.30 pm Stephen Griffin and Mary and Martin Curran

Sunday 26th June Corpus Christi9.30 am Peter Cooke and Mickey Sullivan
11 am Paddy and Mary Lenihan

12.15 pm Gillian Moloney Bocxe

and, also at 12:15:

Final Monthly Mass for the First Communion Program for 2010- 2011
Refreshments will be served afterwards by The Pastoral Council and the Hospitality Team


6.30 pm Gerard Thornton.

• National and International Eucharistic Congress in Ireland





• Monsignor Malachy will be talking at all Masses this weekend about our particular Parish Preparations in conjunction with the Parish Pastoral Council.

A Eucharistic Congress is a major international event in the life of the Universal Church. It was a very special event for the Church in Ireland in 1932 and will be again next year but in a very different context.

The Catholic Church in Ireland is marking the one-year countdown to next year’s International Congress by hosting a National Eucharistic Congress in Knock on 25 June next. Thousands of people from parishes all over the country will travel to Knock to take part in special events, workshops, celebrations and prayer – including Saint Joseph’s Young Priests Society. The Knock Youth Festival is also running at the same time as the National Eucharistic Congress.

The celebration in Knock is a chance to focus on the local community and the pastoral preparation in Ireland for the International Congress next year. The International Congress is not just a once-off week of events in 2012, but a journey of renewal for all of us. This is an opportunity to remind ourselves that we are part of something bigger than ourselves and to do something together - in communion - as one body.

Today the Irish Church is setting out on a new path of healing and renewal, inspired by Pope Benedict XVI’s Pastoral Letter of to the Catholics of Ireland of March 2010. The Church needs healing and reconciliation. The Eucharistic Congress offers us the possibility for renewal. Catechetical and pastoral programmes are already underway in parishes and religious communities across the country.
Next year’s 2012 Eucharistic Congress takes place just fifty years after the opening of the Second Vatican Council and the theme chosen for the Congress in Ireland is “The Eucharist: Communion with Christ and with one another” and this focuses on the teaching of the Council.

The liturgies and the other events which will take place each day from June 10 – 17, 2012 will focus on one or other theme reflected in the light of the Eucharist, such as, marriage and family; ordained and lay ministry; the Sacrament of Reconciliation; religious life and Our Blessed Lady; Mary, as hearer of the Word.

Details for the National Eucharistic Congress in Knock and on next year’s International Eucharistic Congress are available on the Congress website and social media pages

www.iec2012.ie

Registration  is now open for all pilgrims for the 50th International Eucharistic Congress in Ireland in 2012 at

www.iec2012.ie

Coinciding with the National Eucharistic Congress



The Knock Summer Youth Festival is a three day event

This year’s festival will take place the 24th-26th of June.

Over the three days there will be talks, music, workshops, prayer, reflection, chill-out time and loads more. The festival is a chance to step out of the busyness of our everyday lives and come away to relax, re charge and reenergize! It gives people a chance to explore, ignite and celebrate your faith. The festival is for all people between the ages of 18-35 years old.

Over the weekend we have talks by Lino Rulli, ‘The Catholic Guy’, Ronan Johnson, Fr.Benny Mc Hale and more. There will be workshops on drumming, clay and pottery, art, prayer, scripture, love and relationships and environmental ethics.

Music over the weekend will be provided by Christian band Elation Ministries.

It doesn’t matter what stage of your ‘journey ‘you are on, if you are practicing Catholic or if you’re not sure where God is in your life even if you just want to come for a look…please do, you may be surprised at what you’ll find.

This weekend is not to be missed. The Shrine will be buzzing, with the youth village comprising of a number of marquees, a chill out space, a prayer space and the main events.

Find us on facebook and check out pictures and last year’s testimonies....

'The atmosphere in the chill out marquee was relaxed and welcoming. The weekend overall was one to be remembered'.

"It was great!! Counting down till next year already!!" says one festival goer.

"I had a brilliant time at the Youth festival.

I will definitely be back again next year" said another.

For more details contact Knock Youth Ministry on (094) 9388100/0876927850

Siobhain Bradley (Diocesan Youth Ministry Coordinator)

 On 091-565066 or email:

youthministrygalway at gmail.com

Find Youth Faith Galway on facebook

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/youthfaithgalway

Press release for the June General Meeting of the Irish Bishops’ Conference

Please see below the press release emanating from the June General Meeting of the Irish Bishops’ Conference which concluded this evening in the Columba Centre of Saint Patrick College, Maynooth:

Pope Benedict XVI
Bishops congratulate the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI as he celebrates the 60th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood on 29 June, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul. Since his election as Bishop of Rome on 19 April 2005, Pope Benedict has led the Church with faith and humility and has reached out to many people. In his pilgrimages he has spoken the truth with love and presented the gospel of Christ and the teaching of the Church in an engaging way to audiences of all ages.

We invite the faithful in parishes and dioceses across the country to participate in 60 hours of Eucharistic adoration with the intention of praying for the sanctification of the clergy and for the gift of new and holy priestly vocations. Celebrations might include 1 July, the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the World Day of Prayer for Priests. This celebration, which was suggested by the Vatican Congregation for the Clergy, provides the faithful with an opportunity to give thanks for the priestly ministry of Pope Benedict as well as to pray for vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

National Board for Safeguarding Children in the Catholic Church

Bishops discussed the Annual Report 2010 of the National Board for Safeguarding Children in the Catholic Church which was published on 10 May last. Bishops restated their determination to ensure that wherever children or young people are involved in the life of the Church they will be safe. The Church today is a much safer place for children and young people than it was in the past. This is based on:

- the great and intense efforts of many thousands of people across the Irish Church – lay, religious and clergy - over the past 17 years;
- the existence of an independent and professional National Board for Safeguarding Children to formulate best practice standards and guidance; and,
- the active implementation of these standards, following that guidance, by Church personnel in every parish and Church organisation across the country.

Bishops recognise the on-going hard work of the National Board in its three core roles of: developing policies and procedures, advising, monitoring and reviewing.

The Board’s Annual Report demonstrates significant progress in policy development and training. The cost of training safeguarding volunteers is now borne directly by individual dioceses and congregations. Bishops look forward to continuing their work with the Board and resolving remaining issues as quickly and as comprehensively as possible.

New Missal

The Missal contains all the prayers and instructions for the celebration of the Mass. From 11 September next, in dioceses and parishes throughout Ireland, people will experience the first changes to their prayers and responses at Mass. Only a small number of changes will affect the congregation and the order, structure and readings of the Mass are not changing.
With the introduction of the new edition of the Roman Missal we will notice a change in how the Mass sounds but, over time, with the praying of these new texts, the sound of the Mass will again become familiar to us. This is the first stage towards the full use of the new edition of the Roman Missal. On the first Sunday of Advent, 27 November, all Masses in Ireland and throughout the English-speaking world will be using the new edition of the Missal.
Work on the Irish translation of the Roman Missal, An Leabhar Aifrinn, is almost complete and it is expected that Ord an Aifrinn (the part of the Missal used at all Masses) will be approved by the Holy See and be available by the end of this year.
To help prepare for, and to understand, the changes to the Mass, information is being provided at parish level. In addition, resources for dioceses and parishes are available to assist with the introduction of the new edition of the Roman Missal. These include an information FAQ leaflet on the changes, newsletter notices for use in parish bulletins, helpful and brief explanatory videos which outline the main changes that we can expect. There are also links to a wide range of publications which are available from Veritas on the new edition of the Roman Missal.
 See

www.catholicbishops.ie
and
www.liturgy-ireland.ie

Further information:

Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long 00353 (0) 86 172 7678 and Brenda Drumm 00353 (0) 87 310 4444

Saint of the Day, One of our Own: Venerable Matt Talbot



ARTICLE COPYRIGHT:

http://www.americancatholic.org/Features/SaintofDay/default.aspx

Matt can be considered the patron of men and women struggling with alcoholism.
Matt was born in Dublin, where his father worked on the docks and had a difficult time supporting his family. After a few years of schooling, Matt obtained work as a messenger for some liquor merchants; there he began to drink excessively. For 15 years—until he was almost 30—Matt was an active alcoholic.

One day he decided to take "the pledge" for three months, make a general confession and begin to attend daily Mass. There is evidence that Matt’s first seven years after taking the pledge were especially difficult. Avoiding his former drinking places was hard. He began to pray as intensely as he used to drink. He also tried to pay back people from whom he had borrowed or stolen money while he was drinking.

Most of his life Matt worked as a builder’s laborer. He joined the Secular Franciscan Order and began a life of strict penance; he abstained from meat nine months a year. Matt spent hours every night avidly reading Scripture and the lives of the saints. He prayed the rosary conscientiously. Though his job did not make him rich, Matt contributed generously to the missions.

After 1923 his health failed, and Matt was forced to quit work. He died on his way to church on Trinity Sunday. Fifty years later Pope Paul VI gave him the title venerable.

Comment:
In looking at the life of Matt Talbot, we may easily focus on the later years when he had stopped drinking for some time and was leading a penitential life. Only alcoholic men and women who have stopped drinking can fully appreciate how difficult the earliest years of sobriety were for Matt.
He had to take one day at a time. So do the rest of us.

Quote:
On an otherwise blank page in one of Matt’s books, the following is written: "God console thee and make thee a saint. To arrive at the perfection of humility four things are necessary: to despise the world, to despise no one, to despise self, to despise being despised by others."
Patron Saint of:

Alcoholics
Sobriety

A Message from Jigsaw (For Young People With Emerging Health Difficulties)

Jigsaw Galway Cycle 2011 will take place on Sunday, 10th July. This is an event for the whole community to be part of, with three different lengths (30km, 45km and 100km). Each route starts and finishes in the Salthill Hotel and travels through the stunning scenery of Connemara. Funds raised through this cycle to towards the services that Jigsaw Galway provide for young people with emerging mental health difficulties. For more information, to get a sponsorship card and to sign up, go to:

www.jigsaw.ie

If you have any questions in relation to this, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Warm regards,
Sarah Simkin
Research and Community Development
E: sarah@jigsaw.ie T: 091 549 843 M: 087 756 1712
Jigsaw Galway: Young People's Health in Mind
A: Fairgreen Road, Galway City. (Across from the Coach Station.)
E: galway@jigsaw.ie
T: 091 549 252 M: 087 772 52 32
W:
www.jigsaw.ie

F: 091 560 161

A Big Thank You from St. Anthony’s & Claddagh Credit Union

Many thanks to all those who supported St. Anthony's & Claddagh Credit Union's Table Quiz in aid of St Bernadette’s Children’s Ward in UCH Galway held on the 12th May. €3000 was raised and presented to the Children’s Unit. Your support and generosity is much appreciated.

Regards,
Marie Horkan
Operations Officer
St. Anthony's & Claddagh Credit Union
Phone 091 - 537200/537230

Opportunity to study Theology at Mary Immaculate College!

Applications are invited for the MA in Theological Studies (taught).  This programme will provide an opportunity for further studies in Theology. Prospective students would include the Department’s own graduates, teachers of Religious Studies/Religious Education, those engaged in ecclesial ministries at a professional level and any suitably qualified persons who wish to explore in greater depth the disciplines of Theology and Religious Studies.

Further details from:  Dr Patrick Connolly,
E: Patrick.connolly at mic.ul.ie
T: 061 204962
Visit the department website

 http://www.mic.ul.ie/theology/Postgraduate%20Studies%20Limerick%20Ad.html