8th of March

VOL. 23 NO. 15  8TH MARCH 2015

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

Phone – 9065 4157. Website: www.st-colmcilles.net  E-mail: stcolmcilles@hotmail.com

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

St Colmcilles Pre school – www.stcolmcilles-preschool.co.uk.  Phone – 9047 2724

 

THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT– (Page 149, 493 & 121)

3rd Week of Lent

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

EntranceAntiphon My eyes are always on the Lord, for he rescues my feet from the snare.  Turn to me and have mercy on me, for I am alone and poor.
1st Reading (Exodus 20:1-17)  The Law was given through Moses.
Psalm You, Lord, have the message of eternal life.
2nd Reading (1 Corinthians 1:22-25)  Here we are preaching a crucified Christ, an obstacle to men, but to those who are called, the wisdom of God.
Acclamation Praise to you, O Christ, king of eternal glory!  I am the ressurection and the life, says the Lord, whoever believes in me will never die.  Praise to you, O Christ, king of eternal glory!
Gospel (John 2:13-25)   Destroy this sanctuary, and in three days I will raise it up.
Children Jesus went to the Temple in Jerusalem.  Lots of people were buying and selling animals and changing money.  Jesus was very angry because the Temple is God’s house.  Jesus knocked over the tables and asked the sellers to leave.
CommunionAntiphon The sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for her young: by your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.  Blessed are they who dwell in your house, for ever singing your praise.    

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

Sat. Sun. Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri.
6.30pm 9.30am 7.15am 7.15am 7.15am 7.15am 7.15am
Peg Traynor Special Intention Special Intention Eilish Higgins Brian Henderson Tim McCormick John Gilmore
11.30am 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am
Michael McHugh Anointing of the Sick

 

 

Could those who are last to leave the Parish grounds

in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

PARISH PROGRAMME FOR LENT

MORNING MASS  –  will be celebrated Monday to Friday mornings at 7.15am and 9.30am.

EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT – each Thursday evening from 7.00pm to 9.00pm.You are invited to make a Lenten commitment to Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on one or more occasion, by adding your name to the Adoration timetable on the clipboard at the back of the Church.

THE GIFT  – An inspiring and practical series aimed at people of all ages to help them encounter the Holy Spirit and empower them to share their faith.  Everyone is invited to gather together at 10.00am on Friday mornings during Lent, in the Iona room, where we will begin with refreshments. The next session in the series is ‘Unwrapping God’s Gift”.

stations of the cross  –  will be celebrated each Saturday evening at 6.00pm.

Awakening Faith Programme  –  will take place next Sunday and Sunday 29th March after the 9.30am Mass.  Everyone is welcome for free refreshments in the Hall. Children are invited to the Iona room for activities. The theme of the next short talk is ‘The Church and Me.’

TROCAIRE FAST BOXES  –  are available in the foyer of the Church.

SACRED SPACE – ‘One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’. (Matthew 4:4) Let us open our hearts to God’s holy word in scripture, for each of us personally, as we journey through this season of Lent. The purple cloth reminds us of the journey, with our offerings to God of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. The ashes symbolize our penance and contrition. The crown of thorns reminds us that Christ offered Himself as the complete sacrifice for our sin. The candle is the symbol of Christ’s presence with us during our personal Lenten observances. Here we should pause for a time and re-commit ourselves to developing our personal relationship with Jesus, by placing a stone in the desert oasis.

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 17th March 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

Proclamation of the Word  –  the course for new readers will continue this Monday evening at 7.30pm in the Church. If you missed the first session it is still possible to participate in the remaining parts of the programme.  Come along on Monday evening at 7.30pm or contact John Barry on 9065 4395 / 078 4072 8477 or email jb654395@yahoo.co.uk.

BAPTISM  –  we welcome into the parish family Conor Archibald, John Francis Coll, Eve Catherine Hawkins and Maisie Cecilia Jean McCandless who were baptised in St. Colmcilles last weekend.

ANNUAL DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES –  application forms are now available from the Parish Office.  Fare, inclusive of all charges, return flight from Belfast to Lourdes and full board in hotels in Lourdes, is: 5 nights (July 11-16th) – £570 in hotel or £450 in hospital; 7 nights (10-17th) – £625; Youth Team (Age 16-25) – 8th-17th £520.  Closing date for youth applications is 27th March.  For more information see the poster in Church Porch or contact the Pilgrimage Office on 9064 6040 or email dcpilgrimage@gmail.com

24 Hours for the Lord  –  the Holy Father has welcomed the idea of repeating the 24 Hours for the Lord initiative which was celebrated last Lent.  This year it is proposed to have the 24 Hours for the Lord initiative held on this Friday and next Saturday.  The theme that will guide the reflection is: God Rich In Mercy (Ephesians 2 : 4).  Further information can be found at: http://www.novaevangelizatio.va

St Patrick’s Day  –  climb Slemish on St Patrick’s Day, after 11am Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Braid.  You are welcome to join a group which celebrates St Patrick’s Day by walking around 12 miles. Refreshments available in Braid Old School. Consider getting some sponsors and donate funds to Trocaire’s Lenten Campaign.

MONEY MATTERS                        

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

NEEDY PARISHES COLLECTION  –  will be taken up at all Masses next weekend.  This collection was established to create a special fund to assist “Financially Needy” Parishes.  There are already several Parishes within the Diocese that have accumulated debt and are financially stretched.  However, through financial re-structuring schemes it is hoped that many of these parishes, with the aid of this fund, will be able to return to a positive financial position.  Through this collection “better off Parishes” can help those less fortunate Parishes to have some hope of returning to sound financial footing.

OFFERTORY ENVELOPES FOR THE NEW YEAR  –  begin on Sunday 12th April.  New boxes of envelopes, will start being distributed during the coming week and will be in the foyer of the Church next weekend.  If you wish to contribute by Standing Order or by envelopes and do not do so currently, please leave your name, address and telephone number in the bulletin box and Philomena will be in contact with you during the coming week.

DECEASED

We pray for the repose of the soul of Anne O’Keeffe, who died recently and for Winnie Fitzgerald and Michael McHugh, whose months mind occurs this weekend.  We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Peg Traynor,  Joe Simpson,  Tony Gibson,  Eilish Higgins,  Brian Henderon,

Tim McCormick,  John Gilmore  and  Brendan McGuckian

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.

 

PARISH DRAW

There is still time for you to participate in this year’s Parish Draw. Please show your support to the Parish by purchasing a ticket or two by contacting Roisin McMullan on 078 5414 0019, Mary Walsh on 078 1549 3463, or Philomena in the Parish Office.

ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY

We are greatly helped in our work of support for the poor and needy by “The Larder” the food bank attached to St. Christopher’s Church in Mersery Street.  Over fifty of our clients have received generous food parcels from one to six times in the past year.  The food is provided by neighbouring churches and we feel particularly as our clients are amongst the major beneficaries, we should try to contribute to them.  So starting this weekend and up to Sunday 29th March members of the St Vincent de Paul will be in the Church Porch to receive donations of food for onward transmission to “The Larder”.  The following are suggested items: cereal, jam, pasta, rice, pasta sauces, tinned fruit, tinned meat and fish, tinned vegetables, tinned soup, tinned tomatoes, biscuits, tea, coffee, toilet rolls, washing powder, toothbrushes, toiletries and washing up liquid.  They have always loads of baked beans.

DIOCESAN VOCATIONS

Have you ever considered a vocation to the priesthood? Have you felt called to serve Christ in the Church as a priest?  If so, take this opportunity to gather with other men who are discerning a vocation to the priesthood.

VOCATIONS EVENING – in the Parish of Saintfield on Thursday 30th April 2015.  For more information on vocations please contact Father Kevin McGuckien on 9061 4567 or email:kevinmcguckien@hotmail.com.

THIS WEEK

EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT  –  each Thursday evening from 7.00pm to 9.00pm.

PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL  –  will meet this Tuesday evening at 7.30pm.

FIRST COMMUNION ENROLMENT – will take place at the Parents’ Meeting this Wednesday evening at 7.00pm in the Parochial Hall.

THE GIFT  –  will take place on Friday Mornings after the 9.30am Mass.  The next session in the series is ‘Unwrapping God’s Gift”.

stations of the cross  –  will be celebrated each Saturday evening at 6.00pm.

Awakening Faith Programme  –  will take place next Sunday morning after the 9.30am Mass.  The theme of the next short talk is ‘The Church and Me.’

COMING EVENTS

Scripture and Prayer Group  –  the meeting scheduled for Tuesday 17th March, has been cancelled.

CHRISTIAN PASSOVER SEDER  –  the Jewish Passover is the oldest festival of the Hebrew Liturgical Calendar.  It commemorates the deliverance of the Jews from Egyptian bondage – the Exodus.  Our Christian Passover remembers the Exodus but also defines so much of what we celebrate in the Liturgy of the Eucharist and Holy Communion.  The Parish Pastoral Council invites all parishioners to join them for the Passover Seder which will be held in the Parochial Hall at 7.30pm on the Monday evening of Holy Week, 30th March, three days before we celebrate the beginning of the Triduum with the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper. Some idea of numbers is needed to help plan the evening, so if you would like to take part in the prayer and ritual of Passover, please put your name down on the list at the back of the Church after Mass this weekend

Concert   –  by St.Colmcille’s Choir, St.Joesph’s Primary School & the Sing for Life Choir will be singing an extravaganza of contemporary & familiar songs on Friday 17th April at 7.30pm to raise funds jointly for Cancer Focus NI and our own Parish. Light refreshments included. Please put the date in your diary now.  Not to be missed!

REPORTS

PASTORAL COUNCIL NEWS  –  our priority this year is communication with the parish family. The Council is currently considering how the parish website can be updated with a view to making it more informative and attractive. A programme of home visitation has also been started and  we are hoping to re-activate the Outreach Ministry as a means of maintaining contact with parishioners.

PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN LONDON

The Outreach Mission of the Phillipine Embassy in London will be present in the Parochial Hall on Saturday 11th April from 9.30am to 5.00pm and Sunday 12th April from 9.30am to 12.00 noon.  Contact details for on site arrangements are Katrina Albarico – 077 9678 7513 and Vhee Benasa – 078 2809 5361.  The following services will be offererd: e-passport applications; Civil registration (reports of birth, marriage or death); Notarization and Legalization services (affidavits, SPAs, etc); NIB clearance form servicing (fingerprinting); Acceptance of application for visa to the Philippines; Philippine citizenship Retention/Re-acquistion; Overseas voter registration; Assistance to nationals and Advice on Philipine laws’ PAGIBIG membership/inquiries and SSS membership/inquiries.  Applicants are advised to check the documentary and other requirments at www.philembassy-uk.org and to download the applications forms in advance from the same website.

OTHER NOTICES

THE POPE FRANCIS EFFECT  –  a series of talks being held in Tobar Mhuire, Crossgar during the Tuesday’s in Lent.  Brian McKee will give the following talks: this Tuesday –– Pope Francis – Where does he fit into the papacy?  Tuesday 24th March – Building a Church of the People.  Each evening begins at 7.30pm.  Come along for one evening or for the full series of talks.  Voluntary donation.  Everyone welcome!

ST MARK’S CHURCH – are running an early evening programme on a Wednesday evening until 25th March.   The timing for each evening is: 6.00pm – Lenten Office in the Church; 6.30pm – Supper in the Church Hall; 7.00pm  – after Supper Speaker.  People are welcome to come for the entire evening, or even just for supper and/or the speaker.  There is no cost for each evening, although there will be an opportunity to contribute towards the cost of supper each week on an entirely voluntary basis.  Please phone St Mark’s Parish Office on 9065 9047 if you are planning to come for supper, just to give us a sense of numbers for catering!

St Columba’s Knock, Ladies Guild – are hosting a talk about Traffiking in Northern Ireland on Wednesday 18th March at 7.45 pm, in St. Columba’s Church. This topic has been talked about on the media for many months and now you will have an opportunity to learn how to help these poor people who have been brought here under false pretences.

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ST DOROTHEA’S CHURCH  –  to mark this special year, the church will be decorated with floral and fruit display from Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd March.  On Friday 20th and Saturday 21st, the church will be open from 10.00am to 4.30pm and refreshments will be available.  On Sunday 22nd March from 2.00pm to 4.30pm.  Rev. Dr. Peter Thompson will give an organ recital on the Saturday afternoon at 2.30pm

Catholic Singles – is an organisation which helps single adult Catholics of all ages meet, either one to one or through social events. Please tel. 0161 941 3498, visit the website www.catholicsingles.org.uk or email info@catholicsingles.org.uk

Music for St Patrick’s Day –  in Drumalis on Sunday 15th March at 7:30pm.   The McAuley Traditional Singers and Players under the direction of Loreto McAuley will perform a selection of Irish and Scottish music and there will be a fork supper.  The cost of the evening is £25 per person and admission is by pre-paid ticket only.  For further information or to book tickets, please contact 2827 6455 or 2827 2196 during office hours.

The Class of 1971  –  were you, or a relative, a student teacher who commenced their course (Cert Ed, BEd or Post Grad) in St Mary’s or St Joseph’s Colleges of Education, Belfast in September 1971? A Mass followed by a cup of tea will be held to celebrate 40 years associated with the Colleges as Alumni and to remember deceased friends and classmates. Venue: St Mary’s, Falls Road, March 27th at 6.00pm,in the College Chapel. Please contact John on 077 0133 6308 for more details.

Are you suffering the pain of loss? –  looking for help and understanding?

Beginning Experience (for separated, widowed and divorced people) is holding a residential weekend Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd March in Drumalis Retreat Centre, Larne. A few places still available. For further information please contact Phil on 9020 7645 or Marie on  text: 075 4207 0835.

ORGAN RECITAL  –  by James O’Donnell, the organist at Westminster Abbey.  In St Brigid’s Church, Windsor Avenue, on Friday 20th March at 7.30pm.  All Welcome.      There will be a Retiring Collection.

1st March 2015

VOL. 23 NO. 14 1ST MARCH 2015

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

Phone – 9065 4157. Website: www.st-colmcilles.net E-mail: stcolmcilles@hotmail.com

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

St Colmcilles Pre school – www.stcolmcilles-preschool.co.uk. Phone – 9047 2724

 

SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT– (Page 145, 452 & 121)

2nd Week of Lent

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

Entrance

Antiphon

Of you my heart has spoken: Seek his face. It is your face, O Lord, that I seek; hide not your face from me.
1st Reading (Gensis 22:1-2, 9-13, 15-18) The sacrifice of Abraham, our father in faith.
Psalm I will walk in the presence of the Lord in the land of the living.
2nd Reading (Romans 8:31-34) God did not spare his own Son.
Acclamation Glory and praise to you, O Christ! From the bright cloud the Father’s voice was heard: “This is my Son, the Beloved, Listen to him!”   Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Gospel (Mark 19:2-10) This is my Son, the Beloved.
Children Jesus took his friends Peter, James and John up a high mountain. Jesus changed and looked different. His face shone and his clothes became bright white. Two prophets, Moses and Eiljah, appeared with him. The disciples heard God’s voice telling them that Jesus is his Son. Jesus’ friends were scared but Jesus said, “Do not be afraid.”
Communion

Antiphon

This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

Sat. Sun. Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri.
6.30pm 9.30am 7.15am 7.15am 7.15am 7.15am 7.15am
C J Joseph Jamie Shaw Maura Woods
11.30am 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am
Teresa Judge Maureen Bradshaw Anointing of the Sick

 

 

Could those who are last to leave the Parish grounds

in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

PARISH PROGRAMME FOR LENT

MORNING MASSwill be celebrated Monday to Friday mornings at 7.15am and 9.30am.

EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT – each Thursday evening from 7.00pm to 9.00pm.You are invited to make a Lenten commitment to Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on one or more occasion, by adding your name to the Adoration timetable on the clipboard at the back of the Church.

THE GIFT  – An inspiring and practical series aimed at people of all ages to help them encounter the Holy Spirit and empower them to share their faith.  Everyone is invited to gather together at 10.00am on Friday mornings during Lent, in the Iona room, where we will begin with refreshments. The next session in the series is ‘The Gift of the Spirit”.

stations of the crosswill be celebrated each Saturday evening at 6.00pm.

Awakening Faith Programmewill take place this Sunday, Sunday 15th and Sunday 29th March after the 9.30am Mass. Everyone is welcome for free refreshments in the hall. Children are invited to the Iona room for activities. The theme of the first short talk is ‘Can Mass make my life more meaningful?’

TROCAIRE FAST BOXESare available in the foyer of the Church.

SACRED SPACE – ‘One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’. (Matthew 4:4) Let us open our hearts to God’s holy word in scripture, for each of us personally, as we journey through this season of Lent. The purple cloth reminds us of the journey, with our offerings to God of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. The ashes symbolize our penance and contrition. The crown of thorns reminds us that Christ offered Himself as the complete sacrifice for our sin. The candle is the symbol of Christ’s presence with us during our personal Lenten observances. Here we should pause for a time and re-commit ourselves to developing our personal relationship with Jesus, by placing a stone in the desert oasis.

 

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 17th March 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.

Proclamation of the Word – the course for new readers will continue on Monday 9th March at 7.30pm in the Church. If you missed the first session it is still possible to participate in the remaining parts of the programme. Come along on Monday March 9th at 7.30pm or contact John Barry on 9065 4395 / 078 4072 8477 or email jb654395@yahoo.co.uk.

INTERCESSORY PRAYER TEAMis a small group who meet on a weekly basis to add their voices to yours, presenting your needs to God. Requests for prayer can be made by completing a Petition Slip and placing it in the Prayer Request Box, both of which can be found in Our Lady’s Prayer Space, or by emailing colmcilleprayer@yahoo.co.uk. All requests are treated with the strictest confidence and you can make your request anonymously if you wish.

BAPTISM – we welcome into the parish family Brooke Rose Kerr, Erin Joy McCready, Mary Geraldine Olive McErlean and Kendra Mae Ruiz who were baptised in St. Colmcilles last weekend.

ANNUAL DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES – application forms are now available from the Parish Office. Fare, inclusive of all charges, return flight from Belfast to Lourdes and full board in hotels in Lourdes, is: 5 nights (July 11-16th) – £570 in hotel or £450 in hospital; 7 nights (10-17th) – £625; Youth Team (Age 16-25) – 8th-17th £520. Closing date for youth applications is 27th March. For more information see the poster in Church Porch or contact the Pilgrimage Office on 9064 6040 or email dcpilgrimage@gmail.com

MONEY MATTERS                 

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

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

 

DECEASED

We pray for the repose of the souls of Kathleen Davey, a parishioner, who died on Tuesday, Paul Hoben, the father of a parishioner, Jamie Shaw and Maura Woods who died recently. We also pray for all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

C J Joseph, Bob Roddy, Teresa Judge, Maureen Bradshaw, Josie O’Hanlon, Nora Casey,

Mary Paul, Brenda Quinn, Teresa Deane, Gabriel Mullaly and Florence Fusco.

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.

 

PARISH DRAW

There is still time for you to participate in this year’s Parish Draw. Please show your support to the Parish by purchasing a ticket or two by contacting Roisin McMullan on 078 5414 0019, Mary Walsh on 078 1549 3463, or Philomena in the Parish Office.

 

ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY

We are greatly helped in our work of support for the poor and needy by “The Larder” the food bank attached to St. Christopher’s Church in Mersery Street. Over fifty of our clients have received generous food parcels from one to six times in the past year. The food is

provided by neighbouring churches and we feel particularly as our clients are amongst the major beneficaries, we should try to contribute to them. So starting this weekend and up to Sunday 29th March members of the St Vincent de Paul will be in the Church Porch to receive donations of food for onward transmission to “The Larder”. The following are suggested items: cereal, jam, pasta, rice, pasta sauces, tinned fruit, tinned meat and fish, tinned vegetables, tinned soup, tinned tomatoes, biscuits, tea, coffee, toilet rolls, washing powder, toothbrushes, toiletries and washing up liquid. They have always loads of baked beans.

 

DIOCESAN VOCATIONS

Have you ever considered a vocation to the priesthood? Have you felt called to serve Christ in the Church as a priest? If so, take this opportunity to gather with other men who are discerning a vocation to the priesthood.

VOCATIONS EVENING – in the Parish of Saintfield on Thursday 30th April 2015. For more information on vocations please contact Father Kevin McGuckien on 9061 4567 or email:kevinmcguckien@hotmail.com.

 

THIS WEEK

Awakening Faith Programmewill take place this Sunday morning after the 9.30am Mass. The theme of the first short talk is ‘Can Mass make my life more meaningful?’

EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT each Thursday evening from 7.00pm to 9.00pm.

APOSTOLIC WORK MONTHLY MEETINGthe monthly meeting is this Tuesday evening, in the Iona Room at 8.00pm.

THE GIFTwill take place on Friday Mornings after the 9.30am Mass. The next session in the series is ‘The Gift of the Spirit”.

stations of the crosswill be celebrated each Saturday evening at 6.00pm.

 

COMING EVENTS

WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER –   on Friday 6th March at 11.00am in May Street, Presbyterian Church and 8.00pm in St. Molua’s Church of Ireland, Upper Newtownards Road. All are welcome men and women, young and old to join this prayer service held across the world.

Concert  – by St.Colmcille’s Choir, St.Joesph’s Primary School & the Sing for Life Choir will be singing an extravaganza of contemporary & familiar songs on Friday 17th April at 7.30pm to raise funds jointly for Cancer Focus NI and our own Parish. Light refreshments included. Please put the date in your diary now, not to be missed!

 

REPORTS

APOSTOLIC WORK LENTEN LUNCH – thank you to all who supported our fund-raising event last weekend and to Paul Browne and the Scouts who set up the furniture andto all those who helped in the clear-up.  Thanks to your generosity we raised £1,350 for use on the Missions.

PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN LONDON

The Outreach Mission of the Phillipine Embassy in London will be present in the Parochial Hall on Saturday 11th April from 9.30am to 5.00pm and Sunday 12th April from 9.30am to 12.00 noon. Contact details for on site arrangements are Katrina Albarico – 077 9678 7513 and Vhee Benasa – 078 2809 5361. The following services will be offererd: e-passport applications; Civil registration (reports of birth, marriage or death); Notarization and Legalization services (affidavits, SPAs, etc); NIB clearance form servicing (fingerprinting); Acceptance of application for visa to the Philippines; Philippine citizenship Retention/Re-acquistion; Overseas voter registration; Assistance to nationals and Advice on Philipine laws’ PAGIBIG membership/inquiries and SSS membership/inquiries. Applicants are advised to check the documentary and other requirments at www.philembassy-uk.org and to download the applications forms in advance from the same website.

 

OTHER NOTICES

Cardinal Peter Turkson – will give a public lecture in St. Brigid’s Church, Windsor Avenue, Belfast at 7.30pm, this Wednesday evening. The title of the lecture is: Pope Francis and the Joy of the Gospel: The Social Dimension. Cardinal Turkson is President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace in The Vatican. He comes from Ghana; born in 1948, he was Archbishop of Cape Coast, Ghana, 1992-2009. Regarded as “one of Africa’s most energetic leaders” he was called to Rome by Pope Benedict XV1 to head the Church’s Council for Justice and Peace and reappointed by Pope Francis. The subject of Cardinal Turkson’s lecture is based on Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation on the proclamation of the Gospel in today’s world. The Cardinal will pay particular attention to the social dimension of evangelization as outlined in Chapter Four of the Pope’s document where Pope Francis “raises social issues of great importance for the future of humanity” such as justice, care for the vulnerable, peace, ecumenical and interreligious dialogue, religious freedom. The Pope makes explicit the inescapable social dimension of the Gospel message and encourages all Christians to demonstrate it by their words, attitudes and deeds.

THE POPE FRANCIS EFFECT – a series of talks being held in Tobar Mhuire, Crossgar during the Tuesday’s in Lent. Brian McKee will give the following talks: this Tuesday – A Voice in the Wilderness? Tuesday 10th March – Pope Francis – Where does he fit into the papacy? Tuesday 24th March – Building a Church of the People. Each evening begins at 7.30pm. Come along for one evening or for the full series of talks. Voluntary donation. Everyone welcome!

IN JOYFUL HOPE – All are welcome to an “In Joyful Hope” Eucharist at 7.30pm this Tuesday evening in St Peter’s Cathedral. Obeying the mandate of Jesus “Do this in Memory of Me” Catholics, Presbyterians, Methodists and members of the Church of Ireland will worship together in this celebration, keeping faith with our Catholic discipline. “In Joyful Hope” is a new step in Eucharistic Communion.

ST MARK’S CHURCH – are running an early evening programme on a Wednesday evening until 25th March.   The timing for each evening is: 6.00pm – Lenten Office in the Church; 6.30pm – Supper in the Church Hall; 7.00pm – after Supper Speaker. People are welcome to come for the entire evening, or even just for supper and/or the speaker.  There is no cost for each evening, although there will be an opportunity to contribute towards the cost of supper each week on an entirely voluntary basis. Please phone St Mark’s Parish Office on 9065 9047 if you are planning to come for supper, just to give us a sense of numbers for catering!

Rosary Crusade to protect Ireland from abortion – Begins with a 9 Day Novena of Rosaries this Friday ending with a Rosary Vigil at Parliment Buildings, Stormont (Main Gates) Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast on Saturday 14th March at 3.00pm. Join thousands of people from across Ireland to pray and be a voice for our unborn children at this critical time. For more information please contact Rosary Crusade for Ireland on 028 9027 8484.

FIRST SATURDAY DEVOTIONS – will take place in St. Matthia’s Church, Glen Road, next Saturday commening with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Confessions at 3.00pm, followed by Mass at 4.00pm.

St Columbas’ Knock, Ladies Guild – are hosting a talk about Traffiking in Northern Ireland on Wednesday 18th March at 7.45 pm, in St. Columba’s Church. This topic has been talked about on the media for many months and now you will have an opportunity to learn how to help these poor people who have been brought here under false pretences.

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ST. DOROTHEA’S CHURCH – to mark this special year, the church will be decorated with floral and fruit display from Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd March. On Friday 20th and Saturday 21st, the church will be open from 10.00am to 4.30pm and refreshments will be available. On Sunday 22nd March from 2.00pm to 4.30pm. Rev. Dr. Peter Thompson will give an organ recital on the Saturday afternoon at 2.30pm

Catholic Singles – is an organisation which helps single adult Catholics of all ages meet, either one to one or through social events. Please tel. 0161 941 3498, visit the website www.catholicsingles.org.uk or email info@catholicsingles.org.uk

Music for St Patrick’s Dayin Drumalis on Sunday 15th March at 7:30pm.  The McAuley Traditional Singers and Players under the direction of Loreto McAuley will perform a selection of Irish and Scottish music and there will be a fork supper.  The cost of the evening is £25 per person and admission is by pre-paid ticket only.  For further information or to book tickets, please contact 2827 6455 or 2827 2196 during office hours.

The Class of 1971were you, or a relative, a student teacher who commenced their course (Cert Ed, BEd or Post Grad) in St Mary’s or St Joseph’s Colleges of Education, Belfast in September 1971? A Mass followed by a cup of tea will be held to celebrate 40 years associated with the Colleges as Alumni and to remember deceased friends and classmates. Venue: St Mary’s, Falls Road, March 27th at 6.00pm,in the College Chapel. Please contact John on 077 0133 6308 for more details.

 

Sunday 22nd February

VOL. 23 NO. 13  22ND FEBRUARY 2015

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

Phone – 9065 4157. Website: www.st-colmcilles.net  E-mail: stcolmcilles@hotmail.com

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

St Colmcilles Pre school – www.stcolmcilles-preschool.co.uk.  Phone – 9047 2724

 

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT– (Page 141, 452 & 116)

1st Week of Lent

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

Entrance

Antiphon

When he calls on me, I will answer him; I will deliver him and give him glory.  I will grant him length of days.
1st Reading (Gensis 9:8-15)  God’s convenant with Noah after he had saved him from the waters of the flood.
Psalm Your ways, Lord, are faithfulness and love for those who keep your covenant.
2nd Reading (1 Peter 3:18-22)  That water is a type of Baptism which saves you now.
Acclamation Praise to you, O Christ, king of eternal glory!  Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.  Praise to you, O Christ, king of eternal glory.
Gospel (Mark 1:12-15)   Jesus was tempted by Satan, and the angels looked after him.
Children Jesus went into the desert by himself for forty days.  He was tempted by the devil but the angels looked after him.  After this time Jesus went into Galilee to tell everyone the Good News that God loves them.  He told people to turn back to God and believe in him.
Communion

Antiphon

One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.    

 

Could those who are last to leave the Parish grounds

in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

PARISH OFFICE

The parish office will be closed this Monday.

 

 

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

Sat. Sun. Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri.
6.30pm 9.30am 7.15am 7.15am 7.15am 7.15am 7.15am
Ted O’Neill, Moya Dalton, James Dalton & Teresa Barclay Hugh Close & Harry McGarry Frank Donnelly Mary Paul
11.30am 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am
Maureen McGonnell & Charles Doherty Brenda Quinn Anointing of the Sick

 

 

PARISH PROGRAMME FOR LENT

MORNING MASS  –  will be celebrated Monday to Friday mornings at 7.15am and 9.30am.

EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT – each Thursday evening from 7.00pm to 9.00pm.You are invited to make a Lenten commitment to Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on one or more occasion, by adding your name to the Adoration timetable on the clipboard at the back of the Church.

THE GIFT  – An inspiring and practical series aimed at people of all ages to help them encounter the Holy Spirit and empower them to share their faith.  Everyone is invited to gather together at 10.00am on Friday mornings during Lent, in the Iona room, where we will begin with refreshments. The next session in the series is ‘The Joy of the Gospel’.

stations of the cross  –  will be celebrated each Saturday evening at 6.00pm.

Awakening Faith Programme  –  will take place next Sunday, Sunday 15th and Sunday 29th March after the 9.30am Mass.  Everyone is welcome for free refreshments in the hall. Children are invited to the Iona room for activities. The theme of the first short talk is ‘Can Mass make my life more meaningful?’

TROCAIRE FAST BOXES  –  are available in the foyer of the Church.

SACRED SPACE – ‘One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’. (Matthew 4:4) Let us open our hearts to God’s holy word in scripture, for each of us personally, as we journey through this season of Lent. The purple cloth reminds us of the journey, with our offerings to God of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. The ashes symbolize our penance and contrition. The crown of thorns reminds us that Christ offered Himself as the complete sacrifice for our sin. The candle is the symbol of Christ’s presence with us during our personal Lenten observances. Here we should pause for a time and re-commit ourselves to developing our personal relationship with Jesus, by placing a stone in the desert oasis.

 

PARISH FAMILY

Proclamation of the Word  –  volunteers are urgently required for this important Ministry. To meet this need a series of four training sessions begins this  Monday evening at 7.30pm in the Church. If you are interested in contributing to this fulfilling  aspect of Parish life please contact John Barry on 9065 4395 / 078 4072 8477 or email jb654395@yahoo.co.uk.

ANNUAL DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES –  application forms are now available from the Parish Office.  Fare, inclusive of all charges, return flight from Belfast to Lourdes and full board in hotels in Lourdes, is: 5 nights (July 11-16th) – £570 in hotel or £450 in hospital; 7 nights (10-17th) – £625; Youth Team (Age 16-25) – 8th-17th £520.  Closing date for youth applications is 27th March.  For more information see the poster in Church Porch or contact the Pilgrimage Office on 9064 6040 or email dcpilgrimage@gmail.com

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 souls of Father Fred Hassan, Harry McGarry, Thomas Varkey and Charles Doherty who died recently. We also pray for all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Ted O’Neill,  Moya Dalton,  James Dalton,  Teresa Barclay,    Hugh Close,

Maureen McGonnell,  Frank Donnelly,  Mary Paul,

Brenda Quinn,  John Feenan,  and  Olga Hughes.

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.

 

PARISH DRAW

There is still time for you to participate in this year’s Parish Draw. Please show your support to the Parish by purchasing a ticket or two by contacting Roisin McMullan on 078 5414 0019, Mary Walsh on 078 1549 3463, or Philomena in the Parish Office.

 

ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY

We are greatly helped in our work of support for the poor and needy by “The Larder” the food bank attached to St. Christopher’s Church in Mersery Street.  Over fifty of our clients have received generous food parcels from one to six times in the past year.  The food is provided by neighbouring churches and we feel particularly as our clients are amongst the major beneficaries, we should try to contribute to them.  So starting next weekend and up to Sunday 29th March members of the St Vincent de Paul will be in the Church Porch to receive donations of food for onward transmission to “The Larder”.  The following are suggested items: cereal, jam, pasta, rice, pasta sauces, tinned fruit, tinned meat and fish, tinned vegetables, tinned soup, tinned tomatoes, biscuits, tea, coffee, toilet rolls, washing powder, toothbrushes, toiletries and washing up liquid.  They have always loads of baked beans.

 

DIOCESAN VOCATIONS

Have you ever considered a vocation to the priesthood? Have you felt called to serve Christ in the Church as a priest?  If so, take this opportunity to gather with other men who are discerning a vocation to the priesthood.

VOCATIONS EVENING – in the Parish of Saintfield on Thursday 30th April 2015.  For more information on vocations please contact Father Kevin McGuckien on 9061 4567 or email:kevinmcguckien@hotmail.com

 

THIS WEEK

stations of the cross  –  will be celebrated each Saturday evening at 6.00pm.

Apostolic Work Lenten Lunch  – in the Parochial Hall after both Masses this Sunday. If anyone cannot be there but would like to make a contribution please give it to any member of Apostolic Work at any time. Volunteers on the day will be very welcome.

EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT  –  each Thursday evening from 7.00pm to 9.00pm.

THE GIFT  –  will take place on Friday Mornings after the 9.30am Mass.  The next session in the series is ‘The Joy of the Gospel’.

Awakening Faith Programme  –  will take place next Sunday morning after the 9.30am Mass.  The theme of the first short talk is ‘Can Mass make my life more meaningful?’

 

OTHER NOTICES

SLOW DOWN SATURDAY  –  enjoy a cup of tea and a bit of calm, time to think and pray, time for you and God, guided gently by Breige O’Hare, next Saturday from 11.00am to 12.45pm, in The Old School, beside St Patrick’s Church, Donegall Street (room opposite Veritas bookshop). Donation £1. Booking essential. To book, ring Breige at well.com on 9031 9530 or contact her through her website www.athomewithgod.co.uk

THE POPE FRANCIS EFFECT  –  a series of talks being held in Tobar Mhuire, Crossgar during the Tuesday’s in Lent.  Tuesday 24th February – Signs of hope in the Church today? By Father Brian D’Arcy.  Brian McKee will give the following talks: Tuesday 3rd March – A Voice in the Wilderness?  Tuesday 10th March – Pope Francis – Where does he fit into the papacy?  Tuesday 24th March – Building a Church of the People.  Each evening begins at 7.30pm.  Come along for one evening or for the full series of talks.  Voluntary donation.  Everyone welcome!

ST MARK’S CHURCH – are running an early evening programme on a Wednesday evening until 25th March.   The timing for each evening is: 6.00pm – Lenten Office in the Church; 6.30pm – Supper in the Church Hall; 7.00pm  – after Supper Speaker.  People are welcome to come for the entire evening, or even just for supper and/or the speaker.  There is

no cost for each evening, although there will be an opportunity to contribute towards the cost of supper each week on an entirely voluntary basis.  Please phone St Mark’s Parish Office on 9065 9047 if you are planning to come for supper, just to give us a sense of numbers for catering!

Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church Women’s Guild  –  are holding a Concert featuring Ballyclare Male Choir at 7.45pm this Wednesday evening in Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church Hall.  For tickets (£10 inc. supper) contact Anne in Gilnahirk Church Office  on 9040 3589 or Audrey on 9079 4477 or pay at the door.  Everyone welcome.

STRESS CONTROL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME  – Belfast Health and Social Care Trust are offering a choice of a free  six week stress control programme.  Choice 1 – in the Skainos Centre, Newtownards Road on a Monday evening commencing this Monday evening.  Choice 2 – Falls Road Library on a Thursday evening commecning this Thursday evening.  Each evening runs from 6.30pm to 8.00pm.  There is no need to book.  Just turn up on the night.  For more information please contact Audrey at 9504 2689 for more information.

Adopters  Needed  Now  –  Family Care Adoption Services is presently seeking families who would be interested in adopting children aged between 2–6 years and who need the love and attention of a caring and understanding family.  Could this be you?  If you would like to find out more please contact Family Care Adoption Services on: 9069 1133 email: email@familycaresociety.org. Website: www.familycaresociety.co.uk

You are invited to – an evening of reflection on the plight of persecuted Christians around the world, this Thursday evening from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Carryduff.  Christianity is now the most persecuted religion in the world.  Pope Francis has called on us to remember our fellow Christians who are suffering for their faith.  The evening will consist of a series of accounts of the difficulties suffered by Christians in different parts of the world interspersed with prayer, sacred music and personal reflection. The service will conclude with Benediction. An opportunity for further discussion with a cup of tea/coffee will follow in the St. Mochumma room in the Church.  The evening is being organised by the Knights of St. Columbanus and some young people undertaking their John Paul II award. Please come along and join us.

IN JOYFUL HOPE  –  a new step in Eucharistic Communion.  The next gatheirng will be held in St Peter’s Cathedral on Tuesday 3rd March at 7.30pm.