Author: JoeWalsh

VOL. 23 NO. 27  31^ST MAY 2015

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

 

TRINITY SUNDAY – (Page 403 & 452)

9^th Week in Ordinary Time

Readings : Sunday Cycle B, Weekday Cycle 1, Psalter Week 1

Entrance Antiphon	Blest be God the Father, and the Only Begotten Son of God, and also the Holy Spirit, for he has shown us his merciful love.
1st Reading	(Exodus 34:4-6, 8-9)  Lord, Lord, a God of tenderness and compassion.
Psalm	To you glory and praise for evermore.
2nd Reading	(2 Corinthians 13:11-13)  The grace of Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.
Acclamation	Alleluia, alleluia!  Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, the God who is, who was, and who is to come.  Alleluia!
Gospel	(John 3:16-18)   God sent his Son so that through him the world might be saved.
Children	Jesus met his friends at the top of a mountain.  He gave them a special job to do: travel around the world, tell people about him and baptise them to be his friends too.  Jesus promised his disciples he would always be with them and all his friends.
Communion Antiphon	Since you are children of God, God has sent into you hearts the Spirit of his Son, the Spirit who cries out: Abba, Father.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

Saturday	Sunday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
6.30pm	9.30am Gemma Woollams	9.30am Honorio V Villarosa	9.30am Victoria V Caberto	9.30am Petronillo M Caberto	9.30am Anointing of the Sick
Confessions at 6.00pm	11.30am Alice McGourty

 

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 close this Monday and Tuesday.

 

ARRANGEMENTS FOR BAPTISM IN OUR PARISH

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 16^th June 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

FIRST FRIDAY – Father Ciaran will attend the sick and housebound in the parish this Tuesday.

DAILY MEDITATION FOR JUNE  – copies of “Bible Alive” are available at the back of the Church. Price £2.25 each, please put money in either of the Candelabra boxes

PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL – young people are invited to join the team who read the prayers at Mass. Training will take place on Sunday 14^th June from 10.25am to 11.15am in the Church. All welcome. Enquiries to Noeleen 078 7949 8131.

ALTAR SERVERS – formation and additional training for post primary Servers on next Sunday 10.25am to 11.15am in the Church.

SUMMER CHILDREN’S WEEK – application forms for the children’s holiday bible week ‘Under the Big Top’, from Monday 3^rd to Friday 7^th August, for 4 – 8 year olds,  are available in the Church Porch and from colmcilleyouth@yahoo.co.uk

EXAM BUDDIES–  all students  preparing for exams are invited to take an exam pack from the table in the Church porch and to place their name on the Exam Buddies notice board there. Parishioners are invited to place their name on the Prayer Sponsors board and then pray for the students over the exam period in May and June.

Annual Pilgrimage and Mass on St Patrick’s Mountain SAUL  –  will take place on Sunday 14^th June at 3.00pm.  Bishop Noel Treanor will be the Celebrant.

Down and Connor Annual Pilgrimage to Knock  –  will take place on Sunday 14^th June with Bishop Anthony Farquhar as the main celebrant.  The ceremonies are as follows: 2.30pm – The Anointing of the Sick and 3.00pm – Concelebrated Mass followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, Rosary Procession to the Shrine and blessing of religious objects.  Further information is available from Father Colin Grant, Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School, on 9064 3939.

MONEY MATTERS                 

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

The Monthly Stipend Collection will be taken up at all Masses next weekend.

DECEASED

We pray for the repose of the soul of Honorio V Villarosa, who died recently.  We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Kay King,   Gemma Woollams,  Alice McGourty,

Victoria V Caberto  and  Petrronillo M Caberto.

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

 

CEMETERY SUNDAYS

Hannahstown – this Sunday at 3.00pm.  Mass will be celebrated in the grounds of St Joseph’s Cemetery, followed by the blessing of the graves.

St Peter’s, the Rock –  next Sunday at 3.00pm.  Prayers and blessing of graves.

 

THIS WEEK

APOSTOLIC WORK ANNUAL DISPLAY  will be held after all the Masses this weekend.   There will be plants, cakes, books and toys, jewellery and, of course, the Tombola and raffle.  There will be tea and coffee as usual.   There have been an increasing number of requests from missionaries for help to Apostolic headquarters so your continued support will be very important. New members or anyone who can help in other ways are always welcome.  If you cannot stay after Mass but would like to contribute, donations will be received at the door of the Parochial Hall.

APOSTOLIC WORK   – will meet this Tuesday evening in the Iona Room of the Parochial Hall.

WEDNESDAY CLUB  –  are meetng this Wednesday at the Frozen Yoghurt Shop, beside Kirkpatrick Church at 2.00pm.  Join us there.

1. JOSEPH’S PRIMARY SCHOOL END OF YEAR SHOW – at the Glenmachan Church of God this Wednesday and Thursday.  Tickets available in the school from Miss McCullough and Mrs Magee priced £5

PARISH SIRLOIN STEAK/CHICKEN BBQ & DISCO – will take place this Friday from 7.30pm in the Parochial Hall/Scout & Guide den.  Bring your own refreshments and the music will be on until 12.30am.  Its guaranteed to be a great night out so why not make it a great night out with friends.  Tickets are only £15 per person and will be available to purchase this weekend or they are available from Roisin McMullan on 078 5414 0019 or Mary Walsh on 078 1549 3463 or any member of the Social & Fundraising Committee. If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know when you book your ticket.  We look forward to seeing you there.

Community Fun Day –  next Saturday from 12.00 noon to 3.00pm.  Car park in Church Grounds will be closed for this event.  Come along to St Joseph’s P.S. first ‘Community Fun Day’ for a fun-filled afternoon!  Climb the Infinity Tower, descend the Mega Slide, touch the clouds on the bouncy castle and wonder at our birds of prey.  Plus we’ll have face painting, a photo booth, gladiator duel, arts and crafts, a football arena and lots, lots more!!  If you work up an appetite there’s a BBQ and refreshments as well as plenty to do indoors if it’s wet!  We hope you can make it.  We also welcome volunteers to help on the day and donations for our cake sale can be left at the school the week before.  Follow us on facebook at ‘St Joseph’s PTA’ or email stjospta@gmail.com

COMING EVENTS

WEDNESDAY CLUB  –  trip to Hilltown to visit Mary Kate’s cottage for lunch and then entertainment on Wednesday 10^th June.  Bus leaving car park at 11.00am.  Names please to Pat on 9067 1036 or Anna on 9065 1351.

CLONARD NOVENA – will be held from Wednesday 17^th to Thursday 25^th June.  Leaflets giving all times and details of services are available in the porch.  Please take one home with you.   Further information is available on www.clonard.com

Project India 2015  –  St.Colmcille’s/ Gilnahirk Habitat 2015 Team are hosting a concert featuring the award winning Concentio Chamber Choir led by Jonathan Ireland, on Thursday 18^th June at 7.30pm in St Colmcille’s Church. Admission is by ticket and costs £10. Come along and listen to some of Northern Ireland’s most talented young singers. Tickets are available from John Barry on 9065 4395/ 078 4072 8477 or email  jb654395@yahoo.co.uk or Maureen Verdon on 9514 1808 / 079 2962 4395.  Book early to avoid disappointment! Light refreshments available in the Parochial Hall after the event.

REPORTS

Big Breakfast – a big “THANK YOU” is extended to all who supported the Big Breakfast for TAP last Sunday. As a parish family social event and a fundraiser for Moita Bwawani, it was very successful. Thanks to all those who helped – past team members and other parishioners. Through your attendance and donations we raised the magnificent figure of £1,031.70 to send to the TAP Mission Projects in Moita Bwawani.

CELEBRATING THE YEAR OF ST COLUMBANUS

Diocesan Pilgrimage to Luxeuil, Bregenz, St Gallen & Bobbio  –  to mark the Year of St Columbanus, Bishop Noel Treanor will lead a Diocesan Pilgrimage to sites associated with St Columbanus – Luxeuil, Bregenz, St Gallen and Bobbio from 24^th to 31^st August.  Anyone interested in taking part in the Pilgrimage is asked to contact Kieran Troy  on 00 353 5793 55050.

Bangor Colloquium   –  Part 2 will take place in Luxeuil from Thursday 17^th until Saturday 19^th September.  Part 3 will be held in Bobbio from Saturday 21^st until Sunday 22^nd November.  The title of the Bangor Colloquium is “Making Europe: Columbanus and his Legacy”.

Celebrating Columbanus –  a weekend of celebrations will be held in the Dioceses of Down and Connor and Armagh from Friday 19^th to Sunday 21^st June.  Visitors from Italy (from the Dioceses of Piacenza-Bobbio, Lodi, Pavia and Mantua), France (from the Archdiocese of Besançon) and Germany (from the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart) are expected to attend our celebrations. The celebrations commence with Vespers in Good Shepherd Church on Friday, 19^th June at 7.00pm.  Celebrations continue in Bangor on Saturday, 20^th June, with the National Commemoration in honour of St Columbanus taking place in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh, on Sunday, 21^th June.

Mass in St Comgall’s Church, Bangor –  the principal celebration in honour of St Columbanus will be a celebration of the Eucharist in St Comgall’s Church, Brunswick Road, Bangor, on Saturday, 20^th June at 6.30pm.  It will be the Parish Vigil Mass.

 

OTHER NOTICES

Living Faith: Go Proclaim the Gospel  –  Living our faith can be both quite challenging and really wonderful.  Each year in Ballymena a Round-Table gathering is held in The Parish Centre, All Saints Church, Ballymena to consider some aspect of faith.  This year it will be next Saturday from 1.45pm to 5.00pm.   The topic this year is Living Faith: Go Proclaim the Gospel.  Our excellent keynote speaker this year is noted media commentator,  speaker, journalist and teacher, Breda O’Brien, and the other speakers will be Baroness Nuala O’Loan and Fr Patrick Delargy.

THE PILGRIM LIFE  –  The Gospel of Mark, Discipleship in Ordinary Time by Pamela Thimmes, OSC in Drumalis Retreat and Conference Centre next Sunday from 10.00am to 4.30pm.  Cost £35.  Come and hear and learn about the Gospel of Mark.  From beginning to end, the first and shortest of the Gospels challenges and astonishes, demonstrating that “sometimes we need stories more than food to stay alive”.  To book a space contact Drumalis on 2827 2196.

CORRYMEELA 50^TH ANNIVERSARY: BIG BURGER BASH  –  as part of the celebrations for Corrymeela’s 50^th anniversary, there will be a Big Burger Bash at Streamvale Open Farm, 38 Ballyhanwood Road, on Friday 12^th June from 7.00pm to 10.00pm. Featuring tasty burgers, delicious ice cream, and fun farm activities. Bring your own beverages. Admission: Adults £10, children £5, no ticket needed, just pay at entrance.  All are very welcome, so please put in your diary and come and enjoy a great summer evening out.

COLUMBANUS BANGOR FOLK FESTIVAL 2015  –  Ards CCÉ can confirm that the headline act for this year’s folk festival will be Dervish, supported by Ards CCÉ Entertainment Group.  The concert will take place on Saturday 13^th June at St Comgall’s Parish Hall and there will be a fully licensed bar available.  Tickets are only £10 per person and are now available to purchase from Thomas’ Shop.

Living Church Down & Connor Lough Derg Pilgrimage  –  the third Living Church Lough Derg 3 day Pilgrimage will take place from Friday 3^rd July to Sunday 5^th July. The pilgrimage will be the traditional three day format.  Those who took part in the pilgrimage over the last few years spoke of the many blessings they received from being on the island of Lough Derg, as countless people have throughout the years. There is quietness and deep spirituality to be found there that is very special. Please consider coming along this year.  The cost of the pilgrimage is £60.00.  The cost does not include travel to the island. For details of travel arrangements and to book a place please call the Living Church Office on 9069 0920 or email office@livingchurchdc.org  by Friday 12^th June.

90249745. PETER’S FOLLOWERS OF THE CROSS – annual Pilgrimage to Lourdes from 7^th to 12^th October.  Spiritual Director – Rev. Patrick McCafferty.  Fare – £599 per person inclusive of Belfast/Lourdes return flights, full board accommodation and all taxes.  For bookings and further information please contact James Hyndman on 9032 7218, Julieanne Hughes on 9024 6901 or Jimmy Barr on 90249745.

 

 

 

VOL. 23 NO. 26  24^TH MAY 2015

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

 

PENTECOST SUNDAY – (Page 362, 452 & 330)

8^th Week in Ordinary Time

Readings : Sunday Cycle B, Weekday Cycle 1, Psalter Week 4

Entrance Antiphon	The Spirit of the Lord has filled the whole world and that which contains all things understands what is said, alleluia.
1st Reading	(Acts 2:1-11)  They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak.
Psalm	Send forth your Spirit, O Lord, and renew the face of the earth.
2nd Reading	(Galatians 5:16-25)  The fruit of the Spirit.
Acclamation	Alleluia, alleluia!  Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.  Alleluia!
Gospel	(John 15:26-27, 16:12-15)   The Spirit of truth will lead you to the complete truth.
Children	Jesus tells his friends that he is going to send the Holy Spirit to be with them.  The Holy Spirit will help us.  The Holy Spirit will lead us to God’s truth.
Communion Antiphon	They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke of the marvels of God, alleluia.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

Saturday	Sunday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
6.30pm Nigel Sharvin	9.30am Mary Delargy	9.30am	9.30am	9.30am Teresa Wilkinson	9.30am Anointing of the Sick
Confessions 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 close this Friday, Monday 1^st and Tuesday 2^nd June.

 

 

ARRANGEMENTS FOR BAPTISM IN OUR PARISH

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 16^th June 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

New Pastoral Communities  –  back in January the Diocese launched a consultation on how parishes might best work together in the future. Bishop Treanor, supported by the Living Church Office received feedback from groups and individuals across the diocese. The consultation closed with four regional meetings. Now, the Bishop is announcing the makeup of the 13 new Pastoral Communities. Please read a copy of the document which is available as you leave the church, or on the diocesan website.

PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL – young people are invited to join the team who read the prayers at Mass. Training will take place on Sunday 14^th June from 10.25am to 11.15am in the Church. All welcome. Enquiries to Noeleen 078 7949 8131.

ALTAR SERVERS – formation and additional training for post primary Servers on Sunday 7^th June 10.25am to 11.15am in the Church.

SUMMER CHILDREN’S WEEK – application forms for the children’s holiday bible week ‘Under the Big Top’, from Monday 3^rd to Friday 7^th August, for 4 – 8 year olds,  are available in the Church Porch and from colmcilleyouth@yahoo.co.uk

EXAM BUDDIES–  all students  preparing for exams are invited to take an exam pack from the table in the Church porch and to place their name on the Exam Buddies notice board there. Parishioners are invited to place their name on the Prayer Sponsors board and then pray for the students over the exam period in May and June.

St Anne’s Parish invites you  –  to a Vigil this Wednesday in  St Anne’s Church,  from 7.00pm to 9.00pm  to pray for The Reverend Conor McCarthy whose Ordination will take place on Sunday 28^th June.  All are welcome to join in this Prayer Service of Adoration, Testimonies, Readings, Intercessions, Benediction and Veneration of Our Blessed Lady.

Annual Pilgrimage and Mass on St Patrick’s Mountain  –  Saul will take place on Sunday 14^th June at 3.00pm.  Bishop Noel Treanor will be the Celebrant.

MONEY MATTERS                 

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

 

DECEASED

We pray for Alejandro Penaranda, who died recently and for Teresa Wilkinson, whose month’s mind occurs this coming week.  We also remembe all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Nigel Sharvin,  Mary Delargy,  Aidan Lennon,  Edmund Kiely,  George Keenan,

John McCormick  and  Deirdre Ann Murphy.

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

 

CEMETERY SUNDAYS

Milltown – this Sunday. Prayers and blessing of graves will be held at 3.00pm.

Hannahstown – next Sunday at 3.00pm.  Mass will be celebrated in the grounds of St Joseph’s Cemetery, followed by the blessing of the graves.

St Peter’s, the Rock –  Sunday 7^th June at 3.00pm.  Prayers and blessing of graves.

 

THIS WEEK

Big Breakfast for TAP  –   this Sunday, after the 9.30am and 11.30am Masses we will be staging a Big Breakfast for Tanzania to raise much needed funds for our twinned Parish of Moita Bwawani in Tanzania. This is as much a Parish Family event as a fundraiser. So next Sunday, forget about your breakfast chores, let us do the cooking for you and you can reward us with your generosity. Come on over to the Parochial Hall, relax with a hearty breakfast and at the same time help our TAP programme.

BELMONT AND DISTRICT COUNCIL OF CHURCHES  –  will hold their Pentecost Service on  this Sunday, in Stormont Presbyterian Church  at 7.00pm.  All welcome.

St Colmcille’s Parent and Toddler Group –  are holding a Social Evening in Shandon Park Golf Club this Thursday evening at 8.00pm. The evening will begin with a talk from the Neighbourhood Policing Team on the topic of ‘Providing a Secure Online Environment for Children’.   Tickets for this event are £5, with proceeds going to the Parent and Toddler Group.  Tickets are available from Elizabeth Johnston on 077 2978 2471 or Lisa Hale on 077 0818 0732.  Everyone is welcome.

APOSTOLIC WORK ANNUAL DISPLAY  will be held after all the Masses next weekend.   There will be plants, cakes, books and toys, jewellery and, of course, the Tombola and raffle.  There will be tea and coffee as usual.  If anyone wishes to provide cakes or other items for the sale please speak to a member of Apostolic Work or bring it to the hall on Saturday 30th May.  There have been an increasing number of requests from missionaries for help to Apostolic headquarters so your continued support will be very important. New members or anyone who can help in other ways are always welcome.  If you cannot stay after Mass but would like to contribute, donations will be received at the door of the Parochial Hall.

 

COMING EVENTS

1. JOSEPH’S PRIMARY SCHOOL END OF YEAR SHOW – at the Glenmachan Church of God on Wednesday 3^rd and Thursday 4^th June.  Tickets available in the school from Miss McCullough and Mrs Magee priced £5

PARISH SIRLOIN STEAK/CHICKEN BBQ & DISCO – will take place on Friday 5th June from 7.30pm in the Parochial Hall/Scout & Guide den.  Bring your own refreshments and the music will be on until 12.30am.  Its guaranteed to be a great night out so why not make it a great night out with friends.  Tickets are only £15 per person and will be available to purchase next weekend or they are available from Roisin McMullan on 078 5414 0019 or Mary Walsh on 078 1549 3463 or any member of the Social & Fundraising Committee. If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know when you book your ticket.  We look forward to seeing you there.

Community Fun Day –  on Saturday 6^th June from 12.00 noon to 3.00pm.  Come along to St Joseph’s P.S. first ‘Community Fun Day’ for a fun-filled afternoon!  Climb the Infinity Tower, descend the Mega Slide, touch the clouds on the bouncy castle and wonder at our birds of prey.  Plus we’ll have face painting, a photo booth, gladiator duel, arts and crafts, a football arena and lots, lots more!!  If you work up an appetite there’s a BBQ and refreshments as well as plenty to do indoors if it’s wet!  We hope you can make it.  We also welcome volunteers to help on the day and donations for our cake sale can be left at the school the week before.  Follow us on facebook at ‘St Joseph’s PTA’ or email stjospta@gmail.com

 

CELEBRATING THE YEAR OF ST COLUMBANUS

Diocesan Pilgrimage to Luxeuil, Bregenz, St Gallen & Bobbio  –  to mark the Year of St Columbanus, Bishop Noel Treanor will lead a Diocesan Pilgrimage to sites associated with St Columbanus – Luxeuil, Bregenz, St Gallen and Bobbio from 24^th to 31^st August.  Anyone interested in taking part in the Pilgrimage is asked to contact Kieran Troy  on 00 353 5793 55050.

Bangor Colloquium   –  Part 1 of a three-part Colloquium will take place in Bangor from Friday 22^nd to Sunday 24^th May.  Part 2 will take place in Luxeuil from Thursday 17^th until Saturday 19^th September.  Part 3 will be held in Bobbio from Saturday 21^st until Sunday 22^nd November.  The title of the Bangor Colloquium is “Making Europe: Columbanus and his Legacy”.

Celebrating Columbanus –  a weekend of celebrations will be held in the Diocese of Down and Connor and Armagh from Friday 19^th to Sunday 21^st June.  Visitors from Italy (from the Dioceses of Piacenza-Bobbio, Lodi, Pavia and Mantua), France (from the Archdiocese of Besançon) and Germany (from the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart) are expected to attend our celebrations. The celebrations commence with Vespers in Good Shepherd Church on Friday, 19^th June at 7.00pm.  Celebrations continue in Bangor on Saturday, 20^th June, with the National Commemoration in honour of St Columbanus taking place in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh, on Sunday, 21^th June.

Mass in St Comgall’s Church, Bangor –  the principal celebration in honour of St Columbanus will be a celebration of the Eucharist in St Comgall’s Church, Brunswick Road, Bangor, on Saturday, 20^th June at 6.30pm.  It will be the Parish Vigil Mass.

 

OTHER NOTICES

Join the Belfast Conversation  –  what do you want Belfast to be like in 15 years time? Belfast City Council and its partners are looking for ideas and aspirations for Belfast 2030 to help shape the Belfast Agenda – a community plan detailing measureable

social, economic and environmental improvements for the city. Join the belfastconversation and find out more at www.belfastcity.gov.uk/belfastagenda

LIVING THROUGH LOSS – with Brenda Kelso, being held in the Kairos Centre, Knock Presbyterian Church.  This Tuesday – Hope for the Hurting – What Helps and What Hurts?  For more information contact Nicki Jemphrey on 078 4092 4505 or email njemphrey@knockpresbyterian.co.uk

Habitat for Humanity  –  Northern Ireland is hosting a special evening of music and song with The Priests. The classical music trio The Priests will present a special fundraising concert in St Patrick’s RC Cathedral, Armagh this Friday. The evening will celebrate the fact that local people have helped Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland build over the last 21 years. Tickets cost £20 and can be purchased at www.habitatni.co.uk or from Armagh Parish Office on 3752 2813.

Forgiveness: the key to healing and happiness  – a one day retreat to be held in Dromantine Retreat and Conference Centre next Saturday from 10.00am to 4.30pm.    This day will provide an opportunity to reflect on ways to deal with life’s hurts and disappointments, so that we can let go, move on, and find peace and happiness and will be facilitated by Fr. Des Corrigan, SMA.  Apply to the Secretary at Dromantine on 3082 1964 or email admin@dromantineconference.com.

Living Faith: Go Proclaim the Gospel  –  Living our faith can be both quite challenging and really wonderful.  Each year in Ballymena a Round-Table gathering is held in The Parish Centre, All Saints Church, Ballymena to consider some aspect of faith.  This year it will be on Saturday 6^th June from 1.45pm to 5.00pm.   The topic this year is Living Faith: Go Proclaim the Gospel.  Our excellent keynote speaker this year is noted media commentator,  speaker, journalist and teacher, Breda O’Brien, and the other speakers will be Baroness Nuala O’Loan and Fr Patrick Delargy.

THE PILGRIM LIFE  –  The Gospel of Mark, Discipleship in Ordinary Time by Pamela Thimmes, OSC in Drumalis Retreat and Conference Centre on Sunday 7^th June from 10.00am to 4.30pm.  Cost £35.  Come and hear and learn about the Gospel of Mark.  From beginning to end, the first and shortest of the Gospels challenges and astonishes, demonstrating that “sometimes we need stories more than food to stay alive”.  To book a space contact Drumalis on 2827 2196.

CORRYMEELA 50^TH ANNIVERSARY: BIG BURGER BASH  –  as part of the celebrations for Corrymeela’s 50^th anniversary, there will be a Big Burger Bash at Streamvale Open Farm, 38 Ballyhanwood Road, on Friday 12^th June from 7.00pm to 10.00pm. Featuring tasty burgers, delicious ice cream, and fun farm activities. Bring your own beverages. Admission: Adults £10, children £5, no ticket needed, just pay at entrance.  All are very welcome, so please put in your diary and come and enjoy a great summer evening out.

COLUMBANUS BANGOR FOLK FESTIVAL 2015  –  Ards CCÉ can confirm that the headline act for this year’s folk festival will be Dervish, supported by Ards CCÉ Entertainment Group.  The concert will take place on Saturday 13^th June at St Comgall’s Parish Hall and there will be a fully licensed bar available.  Tickets are only £10 per person and are now available to purchase from Thomas’ Shop.

 

Living Church Down & Connor Lough Derg Pilgrimage  –  the third Living Church Lough Derg 3 day Pilgrimage will take place this year from Friday 3^rd July to Sunday 5^th July. The pilgrimage will be the traditional three day format.  Those who took part in the pilgrimage over the last few years spoke of the many blessings they received from being on the island of Lough Derg, as countless people have throughout the years. There is quietness and deep spirituality to be found there that is very special. Please consider coming along this year.  The cost of the pilgrimage is £60.00.  The cost does not include travel to the island. For details of travel arrangements and to book a place please call the Living Church Office on 9069 0920 or email office@livingchurchdc.org  by Friday 12^th June.

90249745. PETER’S FOLLOWERS OF THE CROSS – annual Pilgrimage to Lourdes from 7^th to 12^th October.  Spiritual Director – Rev. Patrick McCafferty.  Fare – £599 per person inclusive of Belfast/Lourdes return flights, full board accommodation and all taxes.  For bookings and further information please contact James Hyndman on 9032 7218, Julieanne Hughes on 9024 6901 or Jimmy Barr on 90249745.

 

 

VOL. 23 NO. 25  17^TH MAY 2015

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

 

THE ASCENSION OF OUR LORD – (Page 353, 452 & 498)

7^th Week of Easter

Readings : Sunday Cycle B, Weekday Cycle 1, Psalter Week 3

Entrance Antiphon	Men of Galilee, why gaze in wonder at the heavens?  This Jesus whom you saw ascending into heaven will return as you saw him go, alleluia.
1st Reading	(Acts 1:1-11)  He was lifted up while they looked on.
Psalm	God goes up with shouts of joy; the Lord goes up with trumpet blast.
2nd Reading	(Ephesians 1:17-23)  He made him sit at his right hand in heaven.
Acclamation	Alleluia, alleluia!  Go, make disciples of all the nations; I am with you always; yes, to the end of time.  Alleluia!
Gospel	(Mark 16:15-20)   He was taken up into heaven: there at the right hand of God he took his place.
Children	Jesus came to his disciples and told them he had important work for them to do.  The disciples must tell everyone the good news that God’s love makes people happy.  Jesus wants his friends to show God’s love to others by their actions as well as words.  Then Jesus left them and was taken to heaven.  God was with the disciples as they did what Jesus asked.
Communion Antiphon	Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age, alleluia.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

Saturday	Sunday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
6.30pm	9.30am	9.30am Communion Service	9.30am	9.30am	9.30am Anointing of the Sick
Confessions at 6.00pm	11.30am

 

ARRANGEMENTS FOR BAPTISM IN OUR PARISH

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

New Pastoral Communities  –  back in January the Diocese launched a consultation on how parishes might best work together in the future. Bishop Treanor, supported by the Living Church Office received feedback from groups and individuals across the diocese. The consultation closed with four regional meetings. Now, the Bishop is announcing the makeup of the 13 new Pastoral Communities. Please read a copy of the document which is available as you leave the church, or on the diocesan website.

PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL – young people are invited to join the team who read the prayers at Mass. Training will take place next Sunday and Sunday 14^th June from 10.25am to 11.15am in the Church. All welcome. Enquiries to Noeleen 078 7949 8131.

ALTAR SERVERS – formation and additional training: for post primary Servers attending this Sunday from 10.25am to 11.15am and Sunday 7^th June 10.25am to 11.15am in the Church; for P6 and P7 servers continuing this Wednesday after school in the Church.

SUMMER CHILDREN’S WEEK – application forms for the children’s holiday bible week ‘Under the Big Top’, on Monday 3^rd to Friday 7^th August are available in the Church Porch and from colmcilleyouth@yahoo.co.uk

EXAM BUDDIES–  all students  preparing for exams are invited to take an exam pack from the table in the Church porch and to place their name on the Exam Buddies notice board there. Parishioners are invited to place their name on the Prayer Sponsors board and then pray for the students over the exam period in May and June.

St Anne’s Parish invites you  –  to a Vigil on Wednesday 27^th May in  St Anne’s Church,  from 7.00pm to 9.00pm  to pray for The Reverend Conor McCarthy whose Ordination will take place on Sunday 28^th June.  All are welcome to join in this Prayer Service of Adoration, Testimonies, Readings, Intercessions, Benediction and Veneration of Our Blessed Lady.

MONEY MATTERS                        

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

Annual Diocesan Collection for the Education of our Student Priests –  will be taken up at all Masses this weekend.  This year our diocese has ten students in training for the priesthood.  Fr. Andrew Black has just been ordained.  Rev Conor McCarthy will be ordained in June. James O’Reilly will be ordained deacon later this month. The other students are Manuelito, Tony, James, Michael, Kevin, Christopher and Stiofan. Please keep them in your prayers.  Your financial contribution is another concrete way of supporting our students as they journey towards priesthood for service in our parishes.

DECEASED

We pray for the repose of the souls of Una Coll, Peggy McCrarren, parishioners who died last weekend and for Bridie Teer, who recently died.  We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

James Richmond,  Mary Richmond,  Michael Kelly,  Una Gallagher,

William Kells,  Sam Heath  and  Carmen Carey.

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

CEMETERY SUNDAYS

Milltown – on Sunday 24^th May.Prayers and blessing of graves will be held at 3.00pm.

Hannahstown – on Sunday 31^st May at 3.00pm.  Mass will be celebrated in the grounds of St Joseph’s Cemetery, followed by the blessing of the graves.

St Peter’s, the Rock –  Sunday 7^th June at 3.00pm.  Prayers and blessing of graves.

PARISH DRAW

The winners of the 3rd Parish Draw for 2015 are: Ciara Erwin – £100, Mary Walsh – £75 & Noeleen Dunn – £25.  Don’t worry its still not to late to get your tickets please speak to any member of the Social & Fundraising committee.

THIS WEEK

Scripture and Prayer Group  –  we meet again as usual, this Tuesday evening at 8.00 pm in the Committee Room. Our focus will be on the readings for Trinity Sunday and The Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ. All welcome.

Big Breakfast for TAP  –   next Sunday, after the 9.30 and 11.30 Masses we will be staging a Big Breakfast for Tanzania to raise much needed funds for our twinned Parish of Moita Bwawani in Tanzania. This is as much a Parish Family event as a fundraiser. So next Sunday, forget about your breakfast chores, let us do the cooking for you and you can reward us with your generosity. Come on over to the Parochial Hall, relax with a hearty breakfast and at the same time help our TAP programme.

BELMONT AND DISTRICT COUNCIL OF CHURCHES  –  will hold their Pentecost Service on  next Sunday, in Stormont Presbyterian Church  at 7.00pm.  All welcome.

COMING EVENTS

APOSTOLIC WORK ANNUAL DISPLAY  will be held after all the Masses on 30th and 31st May.   There will be plants, cakes, books and toys, jewellery and, of course, the Tombola and raffle.  There will be tea and coffee as usual.  If anyone wishes to provide cakes or other items for the sale please speak to a member of Apostolic Work or bring it to the hall on Saturday 30th May.  There have been an increasing number of requests from missionaries for help to Apostolic headquarters so your continued support will be very important. New members or anyone who can help in other ways are always welcome.  If you cannot stay after Mass but would like to contribute, donations will be received at the door of the Parochial Hall.

Community Fun Day –  on Saturday 6^th June from 12.00 noon to 3.00pm.  Come along to St Joseph’s P.S. first ‘Community Fun Day’ for a fun-filled afternoon!  Climb the Infinity Tower, descend the Mega Slide, touch the clouds on the bouncy castle and wonder at our birds of prey.  Plus we’ll have face painting, a photo booth, gladiator duel, arts and crafts, a football arena and lots, lots more!!  If you work up an appetite there’s a BBQ and refreshments as well as plenty to do indoors if it’s wet!  We hope you can make it.  We also welcome volunteers to help on the day and donations for our cake sale can be left at the school the week before.  Follow us on facebook at ‘St Joseph’s PTA’ or email stjospta@gmail.com

PARISH SIRLOIN STEAK/CHICKEN BBQ & DISCO – will take place on Friday 5th June from 7.30pm in the Parochial Hall/Scout & Guide den.  Bring your own refreshments and the music will be on until 12.30am.  Its guaranteed to be a great night out so why not make it a great night out with friends.  Tickets are only £15 per person and will be available to purchase next weekend or they are available from Roisin McMullan on 078 5414 0019 or Mary Walsh on 078 1549 3463 or any member of the Social & Fundraising Committee. If you have any special dietary requirements please let us know when you book your ticket.  We look forward to seeing you there.

CELEBRATING THE YEAR OF ST COLUMBANUS

Diocesan Pilgrimage to Luxeuil, Bregenz, St Gallen & Bobbio  –  to mark the Year of St Columbanus, Bishop Noel Treanor will lead a Diocesan Pilgrimage to sites associated with St Columbanus – Luxeuil, Bregenz, St Gallen and Bobbio from 24^th to 31^st August.  Anyone interested in taking part in the Pilgrimage is asked to contact Kieran Troy  on 00 353 5793 55050.

Bangor Colloquium   –  Part 1 of a three-part Colloquium will take place in Bangor from Friday 22^nd to Sunday 24^th May.  Part 2 will take place in Luxeuil from Thursday 17^th until Saturday 19^th September.  Part 3 will be held in Bobbio from Saturday 21^st until Sunday 22^nd November.  The title of the Bangor Colloquium is “Making Europe: Columbanus and his Legacy”.

Celebrating Columbanus –  a weekend of celebrations will be held in the Diocese of Down and Connor and Armagh from Friday 19^th to Sunday 21^st June.  Visitors from Italy (from the Dioceses of Piacenza-Bobbio, Lodi, Pavia and Mantua), France (from the Archdiocese of Besançon) and Germany (from the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart) are expected to attend our celebrations. The celebrations commence with Vespers in Good Shepherd Church on Friday, 19^th June at 7.00pm.  Celebrations continue in Bangor on Saturday, 20^th June, with the National Commemoration in honour of St Columbanus taking place in St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh, on Sunday, 21^th June.

Mass in St Comgall’s Church, Bangor –  the principal celebration in honour of St Columbanus will be a celebration of the Eucharist in St Comgall’s Church, Brunswick Road, Bangor, on Saturday, 20^th June at 6.30pm.  It will be the Parish Vigil Mass.

OTHER NOTICES

Join the Belfast Conversation  –  what do you want Belfast to be like in 15 years time? Belfast City Council and its partners are looking for ideas and aspirations for Belfast 2030 to help shape the Belfast Agenda – a community plan detailing measureable social economic and environmental improvements for the city. Join the #belfastconversation and find out more at www.belfastcity.gov.uk/belfastagenda

LIVING THROUGH LOSS – with Brenda Kelso being held in the Kairos Centre, Knock Presbyterian Church.  This Tuesday – Promoting Healthy Grieving in Children.  Tuesday 26^th May – Hope for the Hurting – What Helps and What Hurts?  For more information contact Nicki Jemphrey on 078 4092 4505 or email njemphrey@knockpresbyterian.co.uk

Lough Derg –  will hold a special Day Retreat ‘Hope and Encouragement for a New Beginning’ this Wednesday. Fr Ben Hughes, who promotes healing and well-being, will facilitate the day which will be beneficial to anyone who is living with or struggling with any issue that is holding them back or hurting their life. Advance booking is essential.  For more information contact Lough Derg on 00353 71 9861518.

Supporting persecuted Christians in the Middle East  –  there will be a day to support persecuted Christians in the Middle East on next Saturday.  It will be held in St Finnian’s Church at the top of the Cregagh Road from 10.00am to 2.00pm.  The day is being organised by Divine Healing Ministries and Open Doors, who for decades have worked with the persecuted Church worldwide. There will be table top sales, tea and coffee, and the Church will be open for prayer for those who are suffering.  The plight of persecuted Christians has been widely publicised in recent times.  The video of twenty-one Coptic Christians being marched along the beach to be beheaded was one of the saddest scenes of all, but it was only the tip of the iceberg.   Many people have been dismayed by what is happening, would like to help but don’t know how to.  All of the money raised will be used to support those who are suffering in the Middle East.

Habitat for Humanity  –  Northern Ireland is hosting a special evening of music and song with The Priests. The classical music trio The Priests will present a special fundraising concert in St Patrick’s RC Cathedral, Armagh on Friday 29^th May. The evening will celebrate the fact that local people have helped Habitat for Humanity Northern Ireland build over the last 21 years. Tickets cost £20 and can be purchased at www.habitatni.co.uk or from Armagh Parish Office on 3752 2813.

Forgiveness: the key to healing and happiness  – a one day retreat to be held in Dromantine Retreat and Conference Centre on Saturday 30^th May from 10.00am to 4.30pm.    This day will provide an opportunity to reflect on ways to deal with life’s hurts and disappointments, so that we can let go, move on, and find peace and happiness and will be facilitated by Fr. Des Corrigan, SMA.  Apply to the Secretary at Dromantine on 3082 1964 or email admin@dromantineconference.com.

Living Faith: Go Proclaim the Gospel  –  Living our faith can be both quite challenging and really wonderful.  Each year in Ballymena a Round-Table gathering is held in The Parish Centre, All Saints Church, Ballymena to consider some aspect of faith.  This year it will be on Saturday 6^th June from 1.45pm to 5.00pm.   The topic this year is Living Faith: Go Proclaim the Gospel.  Our excellent keynote speaker this year is noted media commentator,  speaker, journalist and teacher, Breda O’Brien, and the other speakers will be Baroness Nuala O’Loan and Fr Patrick Delargy.

THE PILGRIM LIFE  –  The Gospel of Mark, Discipleship in Ordinary Time by Pamela Thimmes, OSC in Drumalis Retreat and Conference Centre on Sunday 7^th June from 10.00am to 4.30pm.  Cost £35.  Come and hear and learn about the Gospel of Mark.  From beginning to end the first and shortest of the Gosepl challenges and astonishes, demonstrating that “sometimes we need stories more than food to stay alive”.  To book a space contact Drumalis on 2827 2196.