24th January 2016

VOL. 24 NO. 09 24TH JANUARY 2016

Father Ciaran Feeney Adm.  191 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3JB.

Phone – 9065 4157. Website: www.st-colmcilles.net

E-mail: stcolmcilles@downandconnor.org

St.  Joseph’s Primary School – www.stjosephsps.co.uk   Phone – 9065 0039

St Colmcille’s Pre School – www.stcolmcilles-preschool.co.uk.  Phone – 9047 2724

 

THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – (Page 835, 452 & 499)

3rd Week in Ordinary Time

Readings : Sunday Cycle C, Weekday Cycle 2, Psalter Week 3

Entrance Antiphon O sing a new song to the Lord; sing to the Lord, all the earth.  In his presence are majesty and splendour, strength and honour in his holy place.
1st Reading (Nehemiah 8:2-6, 8-10)  Ezra read from the law of God and the people understood what was read.
Psalm Your words are spirit, Lord, and they are life.
2nd Reading (1 Corinthians 12:12-30)  You together are Christ’s body; but each of you is a different part of it.
Acclamation Alleluia, alleluia!  The Lord has sent me to bring the good news to the poor, to proclaim liberty to captives.  Alleluia!
Gospel (Luke 1:1-4, 4:14-21)  This text is being fulfilled today.
Children Jesus goes to the synagogue and reads a passage from the scripture to all the people.  Jesus reads about the Messiah.  The Messiah will bring Good News to the poor, will help blind people see, and bring freedom to everyone.  Jesus is saying that the reading is all about him.
Communion Antiphon Look toward the Lord and be radiant; let your faces not be abashed.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

 

Saturday Sunday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
6.30pm

Antonio Logronio,  Hugo McCaffrey,  Bill & Claire Knox

9.30am

Brendan Small

9.30am

 

9.30am

 

9.30am

 

9.30am

Laura McDowell

Anointing of the Sick

 

Confession at 6.00pm 11.30am

Pat Morris

       

 

Would those who are last to leave the Parish grounds in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

YEAR OF MERCY

Pope Francis has announced an Extraordinary Jubilee Year, dedicated to living out in our daily lives, the mercy which the Father constantly extends to all of us.  By showing mercy to others, we are witnessing to our faith in God.

CTS BOOKLETS  – for the Year of Mercy, are now available to purchase from the stand in the Church porch.

BAPTISM

The Sacrament of Baptism is one of the most joyful occasions both for the family and the Parish and everyone is welcome.  The next Baptismal Course takes place on Tuesday 16th February in the Iona Room from 8.00pm to 9.30pm, where parents will receive their Baptismal pack and can arrange the date for their child’s Baptism. Baptisms in the Parish take place on the first and last Sunday of each month and attendance at the course is arranged through Philomena in the Parish Office.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

Begins next Sunday and ends on Sunday 7th February. The theme for Catholic Schools Week 2016 is: ‘Catholic Schools – Challenged to Proclaim God’s Mercy’.  This is an opportunity to celebrate the unique contribution that Catholic schools, both primary and post-primary, make to the mission of the Church in our local faith communities and throughout the wider church.

WEDNESDAY THEME  –  is “Grandparents are the face of God’s mercy.  St. Joseph’s Primary School invites all grandparents to the school, on Wednesday 3rd February.  The Principal’s welcome will be at 10.30am.  There will then be an opportunity for grandparents to visit classes and engage in activities with their grandchildren.

SCHOOL MASS – the  parish will join in the celebrations by having a special Mass at 9.30am on Thursday 4th February with the children from St Joseph’s school.

SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION

Confirmation is a time of Christian commitment and renewal, a time of courage and growth.  How appropriate that Confirmation in this parish usually occurs at the beginning of Spring, a time of new life, a time of year when plants have the courage to show their roots above the cold hard ground.

Next Sunday we celebrate the conferring of the Sacrament of Confirmation on young people of our parish during the 11.30am Mass.  The visiting prelate is Bishop Noel Treanor and we welcome him to St. Colmcille’s.  This is an occasion of great joy for the whole parish.  It is a time for all of us to renew our commitment to our Christian calling.  Please remember especially in your prayers the 46 young people who are preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.  We pray that the Holy Spirit will come into the lives of all who are asking to be confirmed in their faith.

PARISH FAMILY

vulnerable adult training information session – in the Iona Room on Wednesday, 3rd February from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. Attendance at one information session is a mandatory requirement for volunteers with vulnerable adults and in particular those involved with SPRED, and as Eucharistic Ministers of the Sick and Housebound.  While it is not mandatory for members of Bethany or Bereavement Support groups to attend it is still advised to be good practice  to do so. This is the only information session for those volunteering with adults which will be held in the parish this year so it would be advisable to attend.The Safeguarding Committee must provide names in advance of this session, if you hope to attend please email st.colmcillespsc@gmail.com or contact Karen Diamond on 077 1110 9268.

DOWN & CONNOR DIOCESAN DIRECTORY  –  copies of the Down & Connor Diocesan Directory, price £3.00, are on sale at the back of the Church. Please put money in either of the Candelabra boxes. The Directory gives information about every parish in the Diocese, listing the names and addresses of the Priests and Religious, the times of Masses, Parish Schools, Pastoral and Spiritual organisations and useful contact numbers.

MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION – who take the Blessed Sacrament to the housebound, should sign their name on the list in the Sacristy on each occasion.

THE WEDNESDAY WORDis a national prayer mission which links parishes throughout the country through regular weekly prayer. The Wednesday Word contains the following Sunday’s scripture readings and reflections and is an excellent way of preparing to come to Mass. It is available each week at the back of the Church to take home. Please do consider starting to use this Christ centred, scripture based, method of praying, in spiritual solidarity with many parishioners throughout the country

MONEY MATTERS                 

Many thanks to all who contributed so generously to the collections.

DECEASED

We pray for the repose of the souls of Maureen Shields and Gosia Darnbrooke, who died recently.  We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Father Henry Tansey,  Julie Gibson, Bill Knox,  Claire Knox,  Pat Grant,

Bridie Grant,  Francisco Lapena,  Victoria Caterto,  Antonio Logronio,

Hugo McCaffrey,  Brendan Small,  Pat Morris  and  Laura McDowell.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT  –  we can be contacted on 074 5698 9458.  Our members are Regiena Babu, Eithne Daly, Brenda McMeekin, David McMeekin, Celine Molloy, Joan Rogan and Lucy Traynor.

PARISH DRAW

This year’s Parish Draw is being launched on Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th February.  Committee members will be at the back of the church on the Saturday night and on Sunday after all the Masses.  There will be free Tea & Coffee available in the Parochial Hall.  Please show your support to the Parish by purchasing a ticket or two! Any queries please contact

Roisin McMullan on 078 5414 0019, Lucy Traynor on 079 0080 7589 or Mary Walsh on 078 1549 3463.

COMING EVENTS

Apostolic Work  –  the next meeting of Apostolic Work will be held in the Iona Room on Tuesday 2nd February at 8.00pm.   New members are always welcome! Parishioners please note, the annual “Lenten Lunch” will be on Sunday 14th February after both Masses.  For those unable to support the Missions at the event, there will be a Church door collection after 6.30pm Mass on Saturday 13th February.  Thank you for your past, and continued support, of the Missions.

11th Belfast Scout Group 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance  –  All ex members, friends and supporters of the Scout Group are invited to attend the 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance to celebrate the re-establishment of the Scout Group in the parish. The dinner will be held  on 6th February in the Stormont Hotel. Already ex members are travelling from far and near to be with us; Dubai, Brussels, Peru, Seoul, Boston, Leeds, Glasgow, London, Drogheda, Dublin and Carryduff! This will be a tremendous celebration of the proud history of the parish Scout Group, a history dating back to before World War Two and a history of friendship, achievement and fun, a celebration of quality scouting, admired the length and breadth of the country. Tickets at £35 per person are available by contacting Paul Browne on 90291935

SCHOOL INFORMATION

St Joseph’s College Open Night  –  will be held this Thursday from 7.00pm to 9.00pm with the Principal’s address at 7.00pm.

OTHER NOTICES

Ulster Rugby Players speaking in St Anne’s Cathedral–  three well known Ulster Rugby Players will be talking about their faith at a service in St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast this Monday evening at 8.00pm.  They are Ruan Pienaar, Wiehahn Herbst and Paul Marshall.

4 Corners Festival Belfast  – from this Sunday to Sunday 7th February.  The 4 Corners Festival seeks to inspire people from across the city of Belfast to transform it for the peace and prosperity of all through a series of innovative events.   Join us as we celebrate our city through music, prayer, storytelling, discussion, and more.  Full details of all events: www.4cornersfestival.com and www.facebook.com/4cornersfestival.  Please email info@4cornersfestival.com if you would like to receive details of all the events.

Divine Mercy Holy Hour  –  this Thursday evening at 7.30pm, in The Church of the Nativity, Poleglass.  Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, singing of the Divine Mercy Chaplet.  Mass at 8.00pm

Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice and Anam Cara –  are holding a Bereavement Information Evening on Wednesday 3rd February from 7.00pm to 9.00pm in Tullyglass House Hotel, Galgorm Road, Ballymena.   The guest speaker for the evening is Brid Carroll. Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice & Anam Cara will need to confirm numbers for room set up.  We would appreciate if you could RSVP to info@anamcara.ie before Tuesday, 2nd February 2016 or call us on 9521 3120.

CARING FOR OUR COMMON HOME  –  with Professor John Sweeney and Nellie McLaughlin RSM in Drumalis from Friday 5th to Sunday 7th February. The recent publication of the papal document “Laudato Si” has highlighted many of the issues regarding the future of the planet – our common home.  This annual Spring Conference weekend will offer an opportunity to “enter into dialogue with all people about our common home”.  It is possible to attend either on a residential or non-residential basis, or for Saturday only.   For further details or to book a place, please contact Drumalis on 2827 2196/2827 6455.  Further details and booking forms are also available on the Drumalis website www.drumalis.co.uk.

NI CANCER PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES  –  from Friday 27th May to Wednesday 1st June.   The price of £599 (with price reduction for Cancer Patients) will include: Return flights from Belfast International Airport, operated by JWT License T.O. 052. Full board and accommodation at the Hotel Agena in Lourdes for five nights based on twin/double/treble rooms.  Travel insurance cover for persons up to 85 years on date of return.  The party will consist of patients, ex-patients, relatives and friends accompanied by medical, nursing and other staff.  To enquire or to obtain a booking form please contact:-Mrs Jean Clarke, Hon. Secretary,  c/o Drumbo & Carryduff Parish,  6 Knockbracken Drive,  Carryduff,  Belfast,  BT8 8EX, or speak to us on 075 1675 9646, or  e-mail  mail@nicancerpilgrimage.org.uk  Chairman:- Dr Seamus McAleer, Spiritual Directors: Rev. Dermot McCaughan, Fr. Adrian Eastwood, Fr. Andrew Black.

2016 CENTENARY OF THE ANGEL OF FATIMA.  –  Pilgrimage to Fatima & Santiago de Compostela,   from 9th to 18th August 2016.  3 Nights H/B Los Abetos Hotel Santiago, 6 Nights F/B Hotel Avenida Fatima.  Visiting Pontevedra, Tuy & Balasar.  Spiritual Directors are Fr Gerry McCloskey & Fr Sean Gilmore.  Special Group Price £709 inclusive of tax & insurance. Full Religious Programme. For further details contact Joe Catney on 9071 4001 or 077 7642 5631. Early booking is advisable. Deposit secures.

PILGRIMAGE TO POLAND  –  from 19th to 26th May.  Spiritual Director Canon Sean Rogan. Highlights  include tour of the old town of Krakow, the shrine of Madonna at Czestochowa, the birth place of St. John Paul 11, Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp and Memorial Museum, Wieliczka Salt Mine & The shrine of Divine Mercy. Cost  £849 pp includes return direct flights from Belfast, seven nights accommodation in 4 star hotel, three course meal, four nights in hotel and one night in  city centre restaurant, all entrance fees (Wawel Hill, St. Mary’s Basilica Wadowice Museum, Auschwit, Salt Mine), full coach travel for all tours.  To book please call Downe Travel 4461 3288

Summer school  – The Cultural Dimensions of Christian Spirituality  – from Monday 11th to Friday 22nd July in the University Sant’Anselmo, Rome (Italy).  Organiser is the Monastic Institute.  The Monastic Institute of the Pontifical University of Sant’Anselmo was founded in 1952 and is dedicated to teaching and research in the Theology of Spirituality from a Benedictine point of view.  In July 2014 we launched a new short formation programme (60 European transferable credits). It is entitled Cultural Dimensions of Christian Spirituality.  The Master programme is aimed at members of monastic communities, clergy (ministers), oblates, professionals in religious or social areas, scholars, etc. Applicants are welcome from those who want to earn European Credits, as well as for personal formation or further education.  The courses are run in English in a two-year cycle, requiring presence in Rome for two weeks in each year. New enrolments are possible and welcome in every year.  Students will be accommodated (full board) in the Benedictine College of Sant’Anselmo.

St. Brigid’s Day Lecture –  the speaker this year is Dr. Edward Sri.  Dr Sri is a lay-theologian, author, and Catholic speaker, who appears regularly on EWTN.  He holds a doctorate from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome.  He lives, with his wife and seven children, in Colorado, U.S.A.  The Lecture is on Saturday, 6th February, from 1.00pm to 4.00pm,  in St. Brigid’s Parish Centre, Derryvolgie Avenue.    Dr Sri will give two talks: the first one is Living Pope Francis’ “Joy of the Gospel” and “The Year of Mercy” and the second one is the “Vibrant Faith in a Secular Culture: Today’s Challenge to Parents, Teachers, and Laity”.  There will be opportunity for questions and inter-action.  It promises to be a very interesting occasion

 

 

17th January 2016

VOL. 24 NO. 08 17TH JANUARY 2016

Father Ciaran Feeney Adm.  191 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3JB.

Phone – 9065 4157. Website: www.st-colmcilles.net

E-mail: stcolmcilles@downandconnor.org

St.  Joseph’s Primary School – www.stjosephsps.co.uk   Phone – 9065 0039

St Colmcille’s Pre School – www.stcolmcilles-preschool.co.uk.  Phone – 9047 2724

 

SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – (Page 831, 452 & 499)

2nd Week in Ordinary Time

Readings : Sunday Cycle C, Weekday Cycle 2, Psalter Week 2

Entrance Antiphon All the earth shall bow down before you, O God, and shall sing to you, shall sing to your name, O Most High!
1st Reading (Isaiah 62:1-5)  The bridegroom rejoices in his bride.
Psalm Proclaims the wonders of the Lord among all the peoples.
2nd Reading (1 Corinthians 12:4-11)  One and the same Spirit, who distributes gifts to different people just as he chooses.
Acclamation Alleluia, alleluia!  Your words are spirit, Lord, and they are life: you have the message of eternal life.  Alleluia!
Gospel (John 2:1-11)  This was the first of the signs given by Jesus: it was given at Cana in Galilee.
Children Jesus is baptised by John.  The Holy Spirit comes down from heaven like a dove.  God the Father is heard saying to Jesus, “You are my Son, the Beloved.”.
Communion Antiphon You have prepared a table before me, and how precious is the chalice that quenches my thirst.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

 

Saturday Sunday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
6.30pm

 

9.30am

Tom Toland

9.30am

 

9.30am

 

9.30am

 

9.30am

Anointing of the Sick

Confession at 6.00pm 11.30am

Thomas Varkey

 

 

Would those who are last to leave the Parish grounds in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

PARISH OFFICE

The parish office will closed this Friday.

 

YEAR OF MERCY

Pope Francis has announced an Extraordinary Jubilee Year, dedicated to living out in our daily lives, the mercy which the Father constantly extends to all of us.  By showing mercy to others, we are witnessing to our faith in God.

CTS BOOKLETS  – for the Year of Mercy, are now available to purchase from the stand in the Church porch.

 

BAPTISM

The Sacrament of Baptism is one of the most joyful occasions both for the family and the Parish and everyone is welcome.  The next Baptismal Course takes place this Tuesday evening in the Iona Room from 8.00pm to 9.30pm, where parents will receive their Baptismal pack and can arrange the date for their child’s Baptism. Baptisms in the Parish take place on the first and last Sunday of each month and attendance at the course is arranged through Philomena in the Parish Office.

 

PARISH FAMILY

DOWN & CONNOR DIOCESAN DIRECTORY  –  copies of the Down & Connor Diocesan Directory, price £3.00, are on sale at the back of the Church. Please put money in either of the Candelabra boxes. The Directory gives information about every parish in the Diocese, listing the names and addresses of the Priests and Religious, the times of Masses, Parish Schools, Pastoral and Spiritual organisations and useful contact numbers.

MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION – who take the Blessed Sacrament to the housebound, should sign their name on the list in the Sacristy on each occasion.

THE WEDNESDAY WORDis a national prayer mission which links parishes throughout the country through regular weekly prayer. The Wednesday Word contains the following Sunday’s scripture readings and reflections and is an excellent way of preparing to come to Mass. It is available each week at the back of the Church to take home. Please do consider starting to use this Christ centred, scripture based, method of praying, in spiritual solidarity with many parishioners throughout the country

MONEY MATTERS                 

Many thanks to all who contributed so generously to the collections.

DIOCESAN YOUTH COMMISSION COLLECTION  – will be taken up at all Masses this weekend.  Living Youth (the Down & Connor Youth Commission) is now 3 years old and working with more young people than ever before and they need our help if they are to continue growing and reaching more children, young people and young adults.  The number of young people currently engaged with Living Youth is impressive & includes 1551 young people on the Pope John Paul II Award over the 3 years, almost 1,000  11 and 12 year olds on the Parish GIFT programme this year and a large group of young adults on the Catholic Youth Alpha programme, summer pilgrimage, leadership training and the Papal Cross Award.

 

DECEASED

We pray for all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Gerald McGuckian  Nicholas Nelson,  Margaret Boylan,  Kathleen McKenna, 

Tom Toland,  Thomas Varkey  and  George Hugh Thompson.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT  –  we can be contacted on 074 5698 9458.  Our members are Regiena Babu, Eithne Daly, Brenda McMeekin, David McMeekin, Celine Molloy, Joan Rogan and Lucy Traynor.

 

THIS WEEK

SERVICE OF LIGHT – is a Confirmation Commitment ceremony that will take place at the 6.30pm Mass this Saturday.

BELMONT AND DISTRICT COUNCIL OF CHURCHES  –  will hold its Church Unity Week Service this Sunday at 7.00pm in Knock Methodist Church.   Please come along and join the members of the other Churches in prayer.

Scripture and Prayer Group  –  our next meeting will be this Tuesday evening at 8.00pm in the Committee Room.  New members are welcome.

FRIDAY MORNING – this week please come along to the Iona room at 10.00am for hot coffee and scones. There will be an opportunity to view a 20 minute DVD presentation about Thomas More. In an age when Christain faith is once again on trial, St Thomas More’s witness speaks to us today with renewed power. In every aspect of his life, from his spectacular legal and political career, to his everyday home life as a father and husband, he sought to be true to his Christian faith.

 

COMING EVENTS

11th Belfast Scout Group 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance  –  All ex members, friends and supporters of the Scout Group are invited to attend the 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance to celebrate the re-establishment of the Scout Group in the parish. The dinner will be held  on 6th February in the Stormont Hotel. Already ex members are travelling from far and near to be with us; Dubai, Brussels, Peru, Seoul, Boston, Leeds, Glasgow, London, Drogheda, Dublin and Carryduff! This will be a tremendous celebration of the proud history of the parish Scout Group, a history dating back to before World War Two and a history of friendship, achievement and fun, a celebration of quality scouting, admired the length and breadth of the country. Tickets at £35 per person are available by contacting Paul Browne on 90291935

 

SCHOOL INFORMATION

St Joseph’s College Open Night  –  will be held on Thursday 28th January, from 7.00pm to 9.00pm with the Principal’s address at 7.00pm.

OTHER NOTICES

Ulster Rugby Players speaking in St Anne’s Cathedral–  three well known Ulster Rugby Players will be talking about their faith at a service in St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast on Monday, January 25th at 8.00pm.  They are Ruan Pienaar, Wiehahn Herbst and Paul Marshall.

CARING FOR OUR COMMON HOME  –  with Professor John Sweeney and Nellie McLaughlin RSM in Drumalis from  Friday 5th to Sunday 7th February. The recent publication of the papal document “Laudato Si” has highlighted many of the issues regarding the future of the planet – our common home.  This annual Spring Conference weekend will offer an opportunity to “enter into dialogue with all people about our common home”.  It is possible to attend either on a residential or non-residential basis, or for Saturday only.   For further details or to book a place, please contact Drumalis on 2827 2196/2827 6455.  Further details and booking forms are also available on the Drumalis website www.drumalis.co.uk.

NI CANCER PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES  –  from Friday 27th May to Wednesday 1st June.   The price of £599 (with price reduction for Cancer Patients) will include: Return flights from Belfast International Airport, operated by JWT License T.O. 052. Full board and accommodation at the Hotel Agena in Lourdes for five nights based on twin/double/treble rooms.  Travel insurance cover for persons up to 85 years on date of return.  The party will consist of patients, ex-patients, relatives and friends accompanied by medical, nursing and other staff.  To enquire or to obtain a booking form please contact:-Mrs Jean Clarke, Hon. Secretary,  c/o Drumbo & Carryduff Parish,  6 Knockbracken Drive,  Carryduff,  Belfast,  BT8 8EX, or speak to us on 075 1675 9646, or  e-mail  mail@nicancerpilgrimage.org.uk  Chairman:- Dr Seamus McAleer, Spiritual Directors: Rev. Dermot McCaughan, Fr. Adrian Eastwood, Fr. Andrew Black.

2016 CENTENARY OF THE ANGEL OF FATIMA.  –  Pilgrimage to Fatima & Santiago de Compostela,   from 9th to 18th August 2016.  3 Nights H/B Los Abetos Hotel Santiago, 6 Nights F/B Hotel Avenida Fatima.  Visiting Pontevedra, Tuy & Balasar.  Spiritual Directors are Fr Gerry McCloskey & Fr Sean Gilmore.  Special Group Price £709 inclusive of tax & insurance. Full Religious Programme. For further details contact Joe Catney on 9071 4001 or 077 7642 5631. Early booking is advisable. Deposit secures.

PILGRIMAGE TO POLAND  –  from 19th to 26th May.  Spiritual Director Canon Sean Rogan. Highlights  include tour of the old town of Krakow, the shrine of Madonna at Czestochowa, the birth place of St. John Paul 11, Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp and Memorial Museum, Wieliczka Salt Mine & The shrine of Divine Mercy. Cost  £849 pp Includes return direct flights from Belfast  seven nights accommodation in 4 star hotel, three course meal, four nights in hotel and one night in  city centre restaurant, All entrance fees (Wawel Hill, St. Mary’s Basilica Wadowice Museum, Auschwit, Salt Mine)  Full coach travel for all tours.  To book please call Downe Travel 4461 3288

 

10th January 2016

VOL. 24 NO. 07 10TH JANUARY 2016

Father Ciaran Feeney Adm.  191 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3JB.

Phone – 9065 4157. Website: www.st-colmcilles.net

E-mail: stcolmcilles@downandconnor.org

St.  Joseph’s Primary School – www.stjosephsps.co.uk   Phone – 9065 0039

St Colmcille’s Pre School – www.stcolmcilles-preschool.co.uk.  Phone – 9047 2724

 

BAPTISM OF OUR LORD – (Page 102, 452 & 490)

1ST Week in Ordinary Time

Readings : Sunday Cycle C, Weekday Cycle 2, Psalter Week 1

Entrance Antiphon After the Lord was baptised, the heavens were opened, and the Spirit descended upon him like a dove, and the voice of the Father thundered:  This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.
1st Reading (Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11)  The glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all mankind shall see it.
Psalm Bless the Lord, my soul!  Lord God, how great you are!
2nd Reading (Titus 2:11-14, 3:4-7)  He saved us by means of the cleansing water of rebirth, and by renewing us with the Holy Spirit.
Acclamation Alleluia, alleluia!  Someone is coming, said John, someone greater than I.  He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.  Alleluia!
Gospel (Luke 3:15-16, 21-22)  While Jesus after his own baptism was at prayer, heaven opened.
Children Jesus is baptised by John.  The Holy Spirit comes down from heaven like a dove.  God the Father is heard saying to Jesus, “You are my Son, the Beloved.”.
Communion Antiphon Behold the One of whom John said: I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

 

Saturday Sunday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
6.30pm

 

9.30am

 

9.30am

Vera Donnelly

9.30am

 

9.30am

 

9.30am

Anointing of the Sick

Confession at 6.00pm 11.30am

 

       

 

 

Would those who are last to leave the Parish grounds in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

PARISH OFFICE

The parish office will closed this Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.

 

YEAR OF MERCY

Pope Francis has announced an Extraordinary Jubilee Year, dedicated to living out in our daily lives, the mercy which the Father constantly extends to all of us.  By showing mercy to others, we are witnessing to our faith in God.

CTS BOOKLETS  – for the Year of Mercy, are now available to purchase from the stand in the Church porch.

 

BAPTISM

The Sacrament of Baptism is one of the most joyful occasions both for the family and the Parish and everyone is welcome.  The next Baptismal Course takes place on Tuesday 19th January in the Iona Room from 8.00pm to 9.30pm, where parents will receive their Baptismal pack and can arrange the date for their child’s Baptism. Baptisms in the Parish take place on the first and last Sunday of each month and attendance at the course is arranged through Philomena in the Parish Office.

 

PARISH FAMILY

DOWN & CONNOR DIOCESAN DIRECTORY  –  copies of the Down & Connor Diocesan Directory, price £3.00, are on sale at the back of the Church. Please put money in either of the Candelabra boxes. The Directory gives information about every parish in the Diocese, listing the names and addresses of the Priests and Religious, the times of Masses, Parish Schools, Pastoral and Spiritual organisations and useful contact numbers.

MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION – who take the Blessed Sacrament to the housebound, should sign their name on the list in the Sacristy on each occasion.

THE WEDNESDAY WORDis a national prayer mission which links parishes throughout the country through regular weekly prayer. The Wednesday Word contains the following Sunday’s scripture readings and reflections and is an excellent way of preparing to come to Mass. It is available each week at the back of the Church to take home. Please do consider starting to use this Christ centred, scripture based, method of praying, in spiritual solidarity with many parishioners throughout the country

MONEY MATTERS                 

Many thanks to all who contributed so generously to the collections.

DIOCESAN YOUTH COMMISSION COLLECTION  – will be taken up at all Masses next weekend.  Living Youth (the Down & Connor Youth Commission) is now 3 years old and working with more young people than ever before and they need our help if they are to continue growing and reaching more children, young people and young adults.  The number of young people currently engaged with Living Youth is impressive & includes 1551 young people on the Pope John Paul II Award over the 3 years, almost 1,000  11 and 12 year olds on the Parish GIFT programme this year and a large group of young adults on the Catholic Youth Alpha programme, summer pilgrimage, leadership training and the Papal Cross Award.

 

DECEASED

We pray for all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Vera Donnelly,  Frank Kelly,  Kenneth Mains,  Arthur Devlin,  Mary Devlin

Monica Spence,  Dan McNaughton,  Fred Loder  and  Bridie Loder.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT  –  we can be contacted on 074 5698 9458.  Our members are Regiena Babu, Eithne Daly, Brenda McMeekin, David McMeekin, Celine Molloy, Joan Rogan and Lucy Traynor.

 

THIS WEEK

SAINT COLMCILLE’S GUIDE UNIT  – reopens for the Cygnet, Brigin and Guide sections this week.  Ranger section will reopen on Monday 18th January.  Brigin Section – Monday evening from 6.30pm to 8.00pm.  Ranger Section – Monday evening from 8.15pm to 9.30pm.  Cygnet Section – Wednesday evening from 6.15pm to 7.15pm.  Guide Section – Wednesday evening from 7.30pm to 9.00pm.  For further information please contact Philomena on 077 6194 3649

PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL  –  will meet this Tuesday evening at 7.30pm in the Committee Room.

CONFIRMATION PARENTS MEETING – this Wednesday at 7.00pm in the Parochial Hall. Parents will be invited to enrol their child for the Sacrament and to find out more about the Service of Light liturgy next Saturday and their role in it.

SERVICE OF LIGHT – is a Confirmation Commitment ceremony that will take place at the 6.30pm Mass next Saturday.

BELMONT AND DISTRICT COUNCIL OF CHURCHES  –  will hold its Church Unity Week Service next Sunday at 7.00pm in Knock Methodist Church.   Please come along and join the members of the other Churches in prayer.

 

COMING EVENTS

Scripture and Prayer Group  –  our next meeting will be Tuesday 19th January at 8.00pm in the Committee Room.

11th Belfast Scout Group, St. Colmcilles 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance  –  Plans are now very advanced for the Scout Group’s 50th Anniversary Dinner Dance. We have ex members and current members flying in from Seoul, Brussels, USA, Dubai, Glasgow, London, Leeds, and friends joining us from all parts of Ireland. We want all our ex members, friends and supporters to join us in celebrating our anniversary – 50 years of quality scouting in St. Colmcilles and 50 years of fun, friendship and achievement. Because we can’t contact everyone, we need your help in spreading the word. We have established a dedicated Facebook page which can be accessed via the scout troop Facebook page and details of the dinner can be seen there. Tickets at £35 are now available from Paul Browne at 9029 1935.

 

SCHOOL INFORMATION

  1. MALACHY’S COLLEGE – Open nights on Wednesday 13th and Thursday 14th January.  Principal’s Address at 7.00pm in the College Hall.  Primary 6 pupils are welcome to attend on the Thursday night.  If coming by car, please access via Lincoln Avenue.

 

REPORTS

TAP Christmas Gift Cards – The Christmas Gift Card Appeal this year raised the magnificent total of £4050, a record amount since the fundraiser began. The extremely generous response from parishioners  and friends is to be warmly applauded.  The total will be transferred to the Moita Bwawani Mission account and we can be confident that Fr. Janutz will be thrilled with the gift from St. Colmcille’s Parish.

St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal –  St Vincent de Paul would like to thank everyone who contributed to our Christmas Appeal. Thanks to your extraordinary generosity we raised £6,941 in our December appeal. This money all goes directly to help local people in need. Thanks also to all those who contributed food to our collection for the Larder food bank, which provides a vital service to those in food poverty in East Belfast. Thank you for all your support, not only for the Christmas appeal, but throughout 2015.

 

OTHER NOTICES

Belfast Beginning Experience –  is continuing its weekly support group meetings during 2016.  Are you suffering the pain of loss of a partner? Looking for help and understanding?  Beginning Experience (a support group for widowed, separated and divorced people) meets every Wednesday from 8.00pm to 10.00pm in St Bride’s Hall, 38 Derryvolgie Avenue, commencing this Wednesday evening. A Residential Weekend will be held in Drumalis Retreat and Conference Centre, Larne from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th February. Application forms available on request. For further information please contact Phil on 9020 7645 or Marie on 078 9611 9669.

IRISH DANCE CLASSES  –  starting on Thursday 14th January 2016 from 3.00pm to 5.00pm in St Colmcille’s Parochial Hall. Age 4+.  For more information or to book a place contact Nicola Oakes on 077 1892 7242 or email: leonardnicola@hotmail.com

CARING FOR OUR COMMON HOME  –  with Professor John Sweeney and Nellie McLaughlin RSM in Drumalis from  Friday 5th to Sunday 7th February. The recent publication of the papal document “Laudato Si” has highlighted many of the issues regarding the future of the planet – our common home.  This annual Spring Conference weekend will offer an opportunity to “enter into dialogue with all people about our common home”.  It is possible to attend either on a residential or non-residential basis, or for Saturday only.   For further details or to book a place, please contact Drumalis on 2827 2196/2827 6455.  Further details and booking forms are also available on the Drumalis website www.drumalis.co.uk.