Bulletin

SUNDAY BULLETIN

VOL. 22 NO. 17 23^RD MARCH 2014

 

Father Ciaran Feeney Adm.   191 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3JB.         Tel. 9065 4157.   Website: www.st-colmcilles.net  E-mail: stcolmcilles@hotmail.com

 

Sat.	Sun.	Mon.	Tues.	Wed.	Thurs.	Fri.
6.30pm	9.30am	7.15am	7.15am	7.15am	7.15am	7.15am
Gerry O’Flaherty & Gerry Keane
	11.30am	9.30am	9.30am	9.30am	9.30am	9.30am
			Dermot Wilson			Anointing of the Sick

 

You are warmly invited to make a journey this Lent to revisit a familiar story with a new twist.  Along the journey we will look at the Passion of Jesus through the eyes of men and women who were present and find that as we share in their experiences we become more involved in the story. Through film clips, scripture sharing and discussion we explore in an engaging way the meaning of the Passion in our lives today – this Wednesday evening, Wednesday 2^nd and 9^th April from 7.30pm – 9.00pm in St Colmcille’s Parochial Hall.

 

 

 

 

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

BELIEVE –   a DVD presentation on a series of reflections on the Creed, exploring the treasures of our faith as expressed in the Nicene Creed. This is an opportunity on Thursday mornings during Lent, to explore the beliefs that we proclaim publically, every time we attend Mass. Everyone is invited to gather together at 10.00am in the Iona room, where we will begin with refreshments. This week’s theme: ‘How We Believe’

LENT SACRED SPACE –The sack cloth represents us on our Lenten journey of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. The ashes call us to repentance and spiritual renewal. The purple cloth reminds us of the royalty of Christ our King and also represents contrition and preparation. The crown of thorns reminds us that Christ offered Himself as the complete sacrifice for our sin. Here we should pause for a time and re-commit ourselves to this period of repentance, good works and abstinence, by taking a stone from the sack cloth and placing it at the candle, the symbol of Christ’s presence with us during our personal Lenten observances.                                                                                                                             TROCAIRE FAST BOXES   –   are available in the foyer of the Church.

 

OUTREACH  –  currently every home in the parish is being visited by a member of the Outreach Team with; a leaflet giving details of Lenten talks being held in the parish called “Stepping into the Passion”; informaion on the Holy Week and Easter Ceremonies in the Parish; a leaflet on the Parish Pastoral Council; an update from the Social and Fundraising Committee and an appeal for volunteers to help with the Outreach Ministry.  If you haven’t received the information into your home by next weekend please contact Philomena in the parish office on 9065 4157 to arrange for a pack.

INTERCESSORY PRAYER TEAM  –  is 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 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.

A SEVEN DAY CANDLE  – burns continuously at Our Lady’s Prayer Space in the Sanctuary for the intentions of a sponsor. Candles cost £5 each and this offering should be placed in the box in the wall when you light your candle.

ANNUAL DIOCESAN LITURGY SEMINAR  –  entitled “Rediscovering the Word of God” will be held on Saturday 10^th May from 1.00pm to 4.30pm in St Anne’s Parish Centre, Kingsway, Finaghy.  It will be conducted by Brother Pat Mullins O.Carm. The Seminar is open to all, and will be especially interesting to Ministers of the Word. Seminar Fee £5.  To book, please contact:    Malachy McKeever on 077 6010 8903 or e-mail: malachy.mck@gmail.com

PERMANENT DIACONATE  –  after a long period of discussion within the diocese, Bishop Treanor has given the ‘Green Light’ for the permanent Diaconate as a ministry of service within the diocese of Down & Connor.  If you are interested please contact Fr John Murray, Vocation Director, at 200 Finaghy Road North, Belfast, or phone 9091 3761 or 9508 8030 or email mail@frmurray.co.uk.  Applicants should be male 35 years and older and if married should be married for a least 10 years.

DISCERNING VOCATIONS – a retreat for young women who are considering their vocation in the Church – a look at married life, the single life, lay missionary work, the religious life, consecrated life in the world and the contemplative life. Venue: Drumalis Retreat House, Larne next Saturday and next Sunday. Cost: a donation is acceptable. If interested contact the Diocesan Vocation Director: Fr. John Murray at 9091 3761 or email: mail@frmurray.co.uk or also contact Mags Tierney at 075 3741 4387 (text only) or magstierney08@gmail.com.

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.

DECEASED –   We pray for the repose of the soul of Ramon Albarico, the father of a parishioner, who died recently and for Gerry Keane whose month’s mind occurs this weekend.  We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Gerry O’Flaherty,  Dermot Wilson,  Charlotte Duffy and  Jim Norton.

MONEY MATTERS

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

OFFERTORY ENVELOPES FOR THE NEW YEAR  –  begin on Sunday 6^th April.  If you have not received your new box of envelopes, they will be in the foyer of the Church this 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.

 

 

APOSTOLIC WORK   The next meeting will be held in the Iona Room on Tuesday 1^st April at 8.00p.m.

ST. COLMCILLE’S GUIDE UNIT  –  invites you to a Fancy Dress Theme Disney Disco on Sunday 6th April from 2.00pm to 4.00pm in the Parochial Hall Admission £3.  Activities include face painting, spot prizes and refreshments.  Please bring a friend.

ST. COLMCILLE’S ART EXHIBITION/ART OF CARING  –  from Friday 2^nd to Sunday 4^th May we will celebrate 20 years of the Art of Caring.  The exhibition will have the usual range of artists and activities Please put dates in your diaries.  We need sponsors and buyers and lots of help particularly during the days before the opening.  Proceeds as usual will go to Marie Curie Cancer Care, Scouts and Guides and St Joseph’s Primary School.  Bring your family and friends  To volunteer phone 077 0326 9058.

WANTED –  Life sciences student or graduate in East Belfast area to tutor a 17-year old boy in AS level biology for a few hours a week in April , May and June.  Rate and arrangements negotiable.  Call Deirdre on 9065 7651 to explore further.

ACCORD CATHOLIC MARRIAGE CARE SERVICES  –  are recruiting Counsellors & Facilitators in the Belfast area.  If you are interested in joining ACCORD and would like more information on how to apply, please contact the ACCORD Belfast Centre on 9033 9944 or email: belfast@accordni.com.

FROM BERGOGLIO SJ TO POPE FRANCIS: “ THE MAKING OF A POPE” –         Fr Conall O‘Cuinn SJ will lead us in a dynamic seminar on getting to know and understand our charismatic new leader in the Good Shepherd Centre, Ormeau Road this Wednesday form 2.00pm to 4.30pm.  A donation of £5.00 would be appreciated.  Organized by the Conference of Religious of Ireland.

STORIES OF LIFE AND DEATH FROM THE GOSPEL TRADITIONS   –  a series of Four Lenten Talks in preparation for Easter at Drumalis, Larne, given by Pádraig Ó Tuama, popular facilitator of scripture courses.  This Thursday –  Stories of Living and Dying from the Gospel of John.  Thursday 3^rd April – Stories of Living and Dying from the Gospel of Mark.  Thursday 10^th April – Stories of Living and Dying from the Gospel of Luke.  Each session takes place from 7:30pm to 9:30pm, including tea/coffee.  The suggested contribution is £5 per evening.  If you would like to attend, please contact Drumalis to book a place  on  2827 2196 or 2827 6455 (during office hours, Monday to Friday)

 

BREDAGH GAC  –  invite you to their Open Day for New Young Players next Saturday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Cherryvale Playing Fields, Ravenhill Road. The event is aimed at total beginners or children (boys and girls) who have been enjoying gaelic games at school. To register email bredagh.open.day@gmail.com. For queries contact 075 0812 0761. First 100 to register receive an open day t-shirt. Admission free.

DOWN AND CONNOR PIONEER COUNCIL  –  invites Pioneers and friends to attend a Lenten retreat in Our Lady of Bethlehem Abbey, Portglenone on Sunday 6^th April. The cost of the day is £25.00 (this includes light refreshments on arrival and lunch). Enquiries should be made directly with the Pioneer office in Belfast on 9089 4070 or alternatively e mail dandcpioneers@gmail.com .  Spaces are limited and early booking is advisable.

MOTHER’S DAY CONCERT  –  at Tobar Mhuire, Crossgar.  Music by “THE ONCE”  proceeds to Tobar Mhuire Building Fund.  Starts at 7.30pm  Donation £15.00

INTENSIVE GCSE CCEA MATHS REVISION  –  revision courses being held in Stormont Hotel on Easter Monday and Tuesday.  For more information contact examsuccessni@outlook.com.  Places filled on first come first served basis.

MATT TALBOT PILGRIMAGE  –  the Diocesan Pioneers Pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Venerable Matt Talbot in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Sean MacDermott Street, Dublin takes place on Saturday 26^th April.  Concelebrated Mass will take place in the Church at 12.30pm.  For further details, please contact Mary Holden on 9442 3956, Frances Doole 077 1891 4692 or email dandcpioneers@gmail.com

DIVINE HEALING MINISTRIES TRAINING  –  the team of Divine Healing Ministries will be doing training for those who would like to be involved in the healing ministry.  This will take place every Thursday during the month of May at 8.00pm in St. Anne’s Cathedral Hall.  People can come if they want to learn more about the healing ministry, if they wish to use the skills learnt in their own church, or if they would like to work with us.  There is no charge for the course but on the last night participants will have a chance to make a freewill offering.

LIVING YOUTH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY GALA BALL  –  a Diocesan Living Youth Team will be travelling to Ethiopia in July 2014 to build houses with Habitat for Humanity, the world’s leading housing charity.   As part of their fundraising campaign a Gala Ball will be held on Friday 16^th May in The Tullyglass House Hotel, Ballymena.  Tickets £40/£400 per table.  To reserve tickets or for more information please contact Claire Smylie, Living Youth Office Manager at 16 Chapel Lane, Belfast, BT1 1HH, phone 9023 2432, email  clairesmylie@livingyouthni.org or log on to www.livingyouthni.org.  Please help build homes and hope in Ethiopia.

SUNDAY BULLETIN

VOL. 22 NO. 15  16^TH MARCH 2014

 

Father Ciaran Feeney Adm.   191 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3JB.         Tel. 9065 4157.   Website: www.st-colmcilles.net  E-mail: stcolmcilles@hotmail.com

 

Sat.	Sun.	Mon.	Tues.	Wed.	Thurs.	Fri.
6.30pm	9.30am	9.30am	7.15am	7.15am	7.15am	7.15am
Joseph Forde
	11.30am	11.00am	9.30am	9.30am	9.30am	9.30am
		Norah Rogan			Bernard Neeson	Anointing of the Sick

 

MONDAY IS THE FEAST ST. PATRICK  –

and is a Holy Day of Obligation.  Masses in the parish will be

at 9.30am and 11.00am on Monday.

 

You are warmly invited to make a journey this Lent to revisit a familiar story with a new twist.  Along the journey we will look at the Passion of Jesus through the eyes of men and women who were present and find that as we share in their experiences we become more involved in the story. Through film clips, scripture sharing and discussion we explore in an engaging way the meaning of the Passion in our lives today – on Wednesday 26^th March, 2^nd and 9^th April from 7.30pm – 9.00pm in St Colmcille’s Parochial Hall.

 

 

 

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.

 

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

BELIEVE –   a DVD presentation on a series of reflections on the Creed, exploring the treasures of our faith as expressed in the Nicene Creed. This is an opportunity on Thursday mornings during Lent, to explore the beliefs that we proclaim publically, every time we attend Mass. Everyone is invited to gather together at 10.00am in the Iona room, where we will begin with refreshments. This week’s theme: ‘How We Believe’

LENT SACRED SPACE –The sack cloth represents us on our Lenten journey of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. The ashes call us to repentance and spiritual renewal. The purple cloth reminds us of the royalty of Christ our King and also represents contrition and preparation. The crown of thorns reminds us that Christ offered Himself as the complete sacrifice for our sin. Here we should pause for a time and re-commit ourselves to this period of repentance, good works and abstinence, by taking a stone from the sack cloth and placing it at the candle, the symbol of Christ’s presence with us during our personal Lenten observances.                                                                                                                             TROCAIRE FAST BOXES   –   are available in the foyer of the Church.

OUTREACH  –  currently every home in the parish is being visited by a member of the Outreach Team with; a leaflet giving details of Lenten talks being held in the parish called “Stepping into the Passion”; informaion on the Holy Week and Easter Ceremonies in the Parish; a leaflet on the Parish Pastoral Council; an update from the Social and Fundraising Committee and an appeal for volunteers to help with the Outreach Ministry.  If you haven’t received the information into your home by next weekend please contact Philomena in the parish office on 9065 4157 to arrange for a pack.

ANNUAL DIOCESAN SEMINAR  –  entitled “Rediscovering the Word of God” will be held on Saturday 10^th May from 1.00pm to 4.30pm in St Anne’s Parish Centre, Kingsway, Finaghy.  It will be conducted by Brother Pat Mullins O.Carm. The Seminar is open to all, and will be especially interesting to Ministers of the Word. Seminar Fee £5.  To book, please contact:      Malachy McKeever on 077 6010 8903 or e-mail: malachy.mck@gmail.com

PERMANENT DIACONATE  –  after a long period of discussion within the diocese, Bishop Treanor has given the ‘Green Light’ for the permanent Diaconate as a ministry of service within the diocese of Down & Connor.  If you are interested please contact Fr John Murray, Vocation Director, at 200 Finaghy Road North, Belfast, or phone 9091 3761 or 9508 8030 or email mail@frmurray.co.uk.  Applicants should be male 35 years and older and if married should be married for a least 10 years.

DISCERNING VOCATIONS – a retreat for young women who are considering their vocation in the Church – a look at married life, the single life, lay missionary work, the religious life, consecrated life in the world and the contemplative life. Venue: Drumalis Retreat House, Larne on Saturday 29^th and Sunday 30^th March. Cost: a donation is acceptable. If interested contact the Diocesan Vocation Director: Fr. John Murray at 9091 3761 or email: mail@frmurray.co.uk or also contact Mags Tierney at 075 3741 4387 (text only) or magstierney08@gmail.com.

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.

WEDDING  –  our congratulations and best wishes go to Maria Dolores Ramirez and Jaimee Rodoloso  who were married on Wednesday in St. Colmcilles.

DECEASED –   We pray for the repose of the soul of Olga Hughes, a former parishioner, who died recently.  We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Bella Logue, William Logue,  Bernard Neeson,  Peter Neeson,  Teresa Deane,

Paddy Macauley,  Margaret Kerr, Joseph Forde,  Norah Rogan  and  Tony Gibson.

 

MONEY MATTERS

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

NEEDY PARISHES COLLECTION  –  will be taken up at all Masses this 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.

IRISH LANGUAGE COLLECTION  –  on behalf of Feis an Duin will be taken up outside the church on St. Patrick’s Day.  All proceeds go towards Gaeltacht scholarships for the local schools.

SCRIPTURE AND PRAYER GROUP  –  we meet again this Tuesday at 8.00 pm in the Committee Room to reflect on the readings for the 3rd and 4th Sundays of Lent. All welcome.

BALLYHACKAMORE GOLF SOCIETY  –  first outing of the 2014 season will be to Carnalea this Friday . The first tee is reserved from 1.30pm. The cost is £20. Members, guests and visitors will be welcomed. For further details contact Peter at 9076 3822.

 

ST. COLMCILLE’S GUIDE UNIT  –  invites you to a Fancy Dress Theme Disney Disco on Sunday 6th April from 2.00pm to 4.00pm in the Parochial Hall Admission £3.  Activities include face painting, spot prizes and refreshments.  Please bring a friend.

ST. COLMCILLE’S ART EXHIBITION/ART OF CARING  –  from Friday 2^nd to Sunday 4^th May we will celebrate 20 years of the Art of Caring.  The exhibition will have the usual range of artists and activities Please put dates in your diaries.  We need sponsors and buyers and lots of help particularly during the days before the opening.  Proceeds as usual will go to Marie Curie Cancer Care, Scouts and Guides and St Joseph’s Primary School.  Bring your family and friends  To volunteer phone 077 0326 9058.

APOSTOLIC WORK  –  thanks to all who supported the Lenten Lunch last Sunday.  As a result of your generosity we are able to send approximately £1,400 to support missionaries in their important work.  Every penny is appreciated by those who benefit and it is acknowledged in the prayers offered in many parts of the world for you all.

The Group held a sponsored 12 hour cycle marathon on Sat 1 March for Concern’s Philippines’ appeal. Using a variety of static bicycles, scooters and assorted two wheeled vehicles, the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Venture Scouts enthusiastically participated in this initiative and have to date raised more than £650 for Concern. Well done to all who took part and also to those who donated to this worthy appeal.

The programme for the Group in the coming months includes a “BIG DAY OUT” for all members on Sunday 6^th April in Crawfordsburn, a Cub Pack weekend away at Ballyhornan, Easter camp for the Scout Troop and participation by two patrols in the annual Columbanus Shield at Castlewellan. Summer camp for the Cubs will be at Castlewellan, Zellhof International Scout Campsite in Austria for the Scouts and Barcelona for the Venture Scouts where the senior section will spend time at a Youth Hostel in the city before decamping to hike in the Pyrenees.

The Scout Group wishes to publically acknowledge the huge contribution made by Noel O’Hare over more than 40 years to the development  of the Group and to the many 100s of young people who were in membership during his tenure. Noel raised funds, repaired halls, chaired Group Council meetings, drove minibuses, settled disputes, encouraged young leaders and ran Cub pack meetings and Cub pack camps. He also attended Regional meetings, was elected as Regional Deputy Chairman and held the position of Assistant Regional Commissioner for Cubs. He regularly attended National Council, speaking on behalf of the Group to a national audience. He was an inspiration to  the Group and is sorely missed by each and every member. May he rest in peace.

 

ACCORD CATHOLIC MARRIAGE CARE SERVICES  –  are recruiting Counsellors & Facilitators in the Belfast area.  If you are interested in joining ACCORD and would like more information on how to apply, please contact the ACCORD Belfast Centre on 9033 9944 or email: belfast@accordni.com.

FROM BERGOGLIO SJ TO POPE FRANCIS: “ THE MAKING OF A POPE” –         Fr Conall O‘Cuinn SJ will lead us in a dynamic seminar on getting to know and understand our charismatic new leader in the Good Shepherd Centre, Ormeau Road this Wednesday form 2.00pm to 4.30pm.  A donation of £5.00 would be appreciated.  Organized by the Conference of Religious of Ireland.

STORIES OF LIFE AND DEATH FROM THE GOSPEL TRADITIONS   –  a series of Four Lenten Talks in preparation for Easter at Drumalis, Larne, given by Pádraig Ó Tuama, popular facilitator of scripture courses.  This Thursday – Stories of Living and Dying from the Gospel of Matthew.  Thursday 27^th March –  Stories of Living and Dying from the Gospel of John.  Thursday 3^rd April – Stories of Living and Dying from the Gospel of Mark.  Thursday 10^th April – Stories of Living and Dying from the Gospel of Luke.  Each session takes place from 7:30pm to 9:30pm, including tea/coffee.  The suggested contribution is £5 per evening.  If you would like to attend, please contact Drumalis to book a place  on  2827 2196 or 2827 6455 (during office hours, Monday to Friday)

BEGINNING EXPERINCE  –  Are you suffering the pain of loss? Looking for help and understanding?  Beginning Experience (a support group for widowed, separated and divorced people) is offering a Residential Weekend from this Friday  to next Sunday at Drumalis Retreat and Conference Centre, Larne.  For further information please contact Phil on 9020 7645 or Marie on 075 4207 0835.

TRAVELLING LIGHT IN LENT –  a quiet retreat day at the Passionist Retreat Centre, Crossgar next Saturday from 10.00am to 4.00pm.  Cost £45.  Leaflet and booking form available at back of Church.  Refreshments and lunch included.  Additional overnight on either Friday and/or Saturday can be arranged.  For further details please contact Mary Cairns on 9087 7936 or 078 8120 4514

 

 

DOWN AND CONNOR PIONEER COUNCIL  –  invites Pioneers and friends to attend a Lenten retreat in Our Lady of Bethlehem Abbey, Portglenone on Sunday 6^th April. The cost of the day is £25.00 (this includes light refreshments on arrival and lunch). Enquiries should be made directly with the Pioneer office in Belfast on 9089 4070 or alternatively e mail dandcpioneers@gmail.com .  Spaces are limited and early booking is advisable.

INTENSIVE GCSE CCEA MATHS REVISION  –  revision courses being held in Stormont Hotel on Easter Monday and Tuesday.  For more information contact examsuccessni@outlook.com.  Places filled on first come first served basis.

MATT TALBOT PILGRIMAGE  –  the Diocesan Pioneers Pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Venerable Matt Talbot in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Sean MacDermott Street, Dublin takes place on Saturday 26^th April.  Concelebrated Mass will take place in the Church at 12.30pm.  For further details, please contact Mary Holden on 9442 3956, Frances Doole 077 1891 4692 or email dandcpioneers@gmail.com

LIVING YOUTH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY GALA BALL  –  a Diocesan Living Youth Team will be travelling to Ethiopia in July 2014 to build houses with Habitat for Humanity, the world’s leading housing charity.   As part of their fundraising campaign a Gala Ball will be held on Friday 16^th May in The Tullyglass House Hotel, Ballymena.  Tickets £40/£400 per table.  To reserve tickets or for more information please contact Claire Smylie, Living Youth Office Manager at 16 Chapel Lane, Belfast, BT1 1HH, phone 9023 2432, email  clairesmylie@livingyouthni.org or log on to www.livingyouthni.org.  Please help build homes and hope in Ethiopia.

SUNDAY BULLETIN

VOL. 22 NO. 13  2^ND MARCH 2014

 

Father Ciaran Feeney Adm.   191 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3JB.  Tel. 9065 4157.   Website: www.st-colmcilles.net  E-mail: stcolmcilles@hotmail.com

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

 

 

Could those who are last to leave the Parish grounds 

in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

 

PARISH OFFICE AND BULLETIN

The parish office will close this coming week.

 

PARISH PROGRAMME FOR LENT

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

DAILY MEDITATION FOR LENT  – copies of “Bible Alive” are available at the back of the Church.

WALK WITH ME BOOKS – A Lenten Journey of Prayer for 2014, are available at the back of the Church.  Price £1.  Please put money in paper box beside Confessional.

BELIEVE –   a DVD presentation on a series of reflections on the Creed, exploring the treasures of our faith as expressed in the Nicene Creed. This is an opportunity on Thursday mornings during Lent, to explore the beliefs that we proclaim publically, every time we attend Mass. Everyone is invited to gather together at 10.00am in the Iona room, where we will begin with refreshments.

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

DOWN AND CONNOR PIONEER ASSOCIATION  –  Do you feel we live in a drinks culture? Are you concerned about alcohol abuse? Are you thinking of giving up alcohol for Lent?  If so, we invite you to take a Temporary Pledge with the Pioneer Association, say a short prayer daily and offer up your decision not to take alcohol for the sake of someone else, perhaps someone who is living with addiction. You can make a difference.  Register your pledge with the Down and Connor Pioneer office on 9089 4070 or email dandcpioneers@gmail.com.  Please give your name, address and phone number and you will be sent a Pledge Certificate which includes the daily prayer.

PARISH FAMILY

DIOCESAN REVIEW  –  a leaflet giving a summary of the Diocesan Review which will be happening in each parish during this month is available at the back of the Church this weekend.

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

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^th-16^th) – £570 in hotel or £470 in hospital; 7 nights (10^th-17^th) – £635; Youth Team (Age 16-25) – 8^th-17^th £520, closing date for youth applications is 31^st March.  For more information see the poster in Church Porch or contact the Pilgrimage Office on 9064 6040 or email dcpilgrimage@gmail.com

DOWN AND CONNOR DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO FATIMA – under the patronage of Bishop Noel Treanor from 14^th to 21^st August.  Cost £649 – includes Belfast-Dublin Airport return coach, return flight to Lisbon, transfer from Lisbon to Fatima, 7 nights full board, based on sharing twin bedded rooms with facilities, in a 3 star hotel, full religious programme.  Pilgrimage directed by Father Gerard McCloskey and Father Sean Gilmore.  For further details contact Joe Catney on 9071 4401 or Anna Prior on 4484 1843.

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.

HOLY HOUR  –  this Thursday evening from 7.00pm to 8.00pm in St. Peter’s Cathedral to thank God for the gift of the Eucharist and to pray for priests and vocations.  All are most welcome.

BAPTISM  –  we welcome into the parish family Mollie Anna Dunn, Emily Jessica Shipman and Jacob Thomas Smyth who were baptised in St. Colmcilles last weekend.

DECEASED –   We pray for the repose of the soul of Veronica Tohill, who died suddenly last Sunday; Marie McCorry, who died recently and for Noel O’Hare whose month’s mind occurs this weekend.  We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Grainne Ruddock, C J Joseph, Teresa Judge and Maureen Bradshaw

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.

PARISH DRAW

Thank you to everyone who signed up to the Parish Draw 2014 last weekend.  Don’t worry it is not too late to enter this year.  After all Masses this weekend members of the committee will be at the back of the church to sign you up.  For those who paid by standing order last information you can contact Roisin McMullan on 078 5414 0019 or Mary Walsh on 078 1549 3463 or any member of the Social & Fundraising Committee.

VOCATIONS

God promises never to forget us.  If you feel distant from God, who has moved?  Seek a closer relationship with God and all that you need will be given to you.  (Isaiah 49:  14-15 and Matthew 6:  24-34.  If you think God is calling you to be a priest please contact Father Murray for more information at 9091 3761 or e-mail:  mail@frmurray.co.uk

DISCERNING VOCATIONS – a retreat for young women who are considering their vocation in the Church – a look at married life, the single life, lay missionary work, the religious life, consecrated life in the world and the contemplative life. Venue: Drumalis Retreat House, Larne on Saturday 29^th and Sunday 30^th March. Cost: a donation is acceptable. If interested contact the Diocesan Vocation Director: Fr. John Murray at 9091 3761 or email: mail@frmurray.co.uk or also contact Mags Tierney at 075 3741 4387 (text only) or magstierney08@gmail.com.

THIS WEEK

APOSTOLIC WORK  –  March meeting will be held in Iona Room at 8.00pm this Tuesday.

GIFT  – Growing In Faith Together is a post Confirmation programme being offered to 1st and 2nd year pupils in our parish. The programme helps young people to continue on their faith journey through remembering their Confirmation, developing their gifts and talents, exploring age-related themes, engaging in fun activities, faith sharing with their peers and praying together.  It is facilitated by parish adult volunteers and parents. It will run for five Thursday evenings beginning this Thursday in the Colmcille Room, from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. Enquiries to Noeleen : 078 7949 8131.

ST.  JOSEPH’S PTA  –  warmly invite you to An Evening of Rock, Souls & Blues next Saturday evening at 8.00pm in the Parochial Hall. The event is BYO with tickets priced at £10 per person. All enquiries to the school or Mary O’Brien 077 6965 8755. 

APOSTOLIC WORK LENTEN LUNCH  – in the Parochial Hall after both Masses on next 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.

COMING EVENTS

 

PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL  –  will meet on Tuesday 11^th March at 7.30pm

ST. COLMCILLE’S ART EXHIBITION/ART OF CARING  –  from Friday 2^nd to Sunday 4^th May we will celebrate 20 years of the Art of Caring.  The exhibition will have the usual range of artists and activities Please put dates in your diaries.  We need sponsors and buyers and lots of help particularly during the days before the opening.  Proceeds as usual will go to Marie Curie Cancer Care, Scouts and Guides and St Joseph’s Primary School.  Bring your family and friends  To volunteer phone 077 0326 9058.

REPORTS

SAINT COLMCILLE’S GUIDE UNIT CAMP  – on Friday 14^th February annual unit camp took place at Crawfordsburn Country Park, this year was a “Wizard of Oz” theme.  A total of 52 Rangers, Guides and Birgini attended the activity filled weekend. We arrived down on the Friday evening, cold and wet, yet optimistic and our spirits were not dampened.  To start off we got settled into our dorms and were then placed into our patrols for the camp; the year and wish to continue paying by standing order please check with your bank to confirm how you set it up last year.  You might need to set it up again this year.  If you need any more

Crawfordsburn wardens visited us to give us a fire drill. Once in the patrols, we were given an exciting book with challenges we had to complete over the weekend, which we started right away. After some delicious supper consisting of soup and bread we headed to bed for some much needed rest. On Saturday morning the yellow patrol were woken up bright and early to set up breakfast for us all. All the leaders were very grumpy as the Brigini were up all night playing ‘knock and run’, whilst also brushing their teeth at 2am.  Once breakfast was all cleared up and all the leaders had received a mug of coffee, we said our daily prayer.   The Cygnets joined us for the day and did arts and crafts with the Brigini to start, which was followed with a visit from Jump, Jingle, Jive. The Guides and Rangers set out to do wall climbing on site, which was very challenging and fun. After we returned from wall climbing we helped prepare some lunch for us all. Everyone was very quiet during lunch filling up their bellies.  In the afternoon the Cygnets decorated cup cakes and some colouring in, the Brigini were crate climbing, while Guides and Rangers had someone down to start a three week programme of Self Defence.  Afterwards, the Rangers completed our thirsty work challenge which included making pancakes and tea or coffee for the leaders on trangias, whilst the Guides roasted marshmallows and made s’mores over an open fire in a tin can. Unfortunately it began to rain so the Guides jumped ship and received compensation free time. Around 6pm dinner was served and everyone tucked in. Our Saturday night consisted of a campfire and singsongs with everyone joining in and having fun. During the campfire, all the patrols completed The Rainbow Story challenge. The Orange patrol was voted the best and got the opportunity to perform at Mass the next day. Hot chocolate followed with two marshmallows. Bedtime was around 11, but let’s be honest no one went to sleep! It was the last day of camp and everyone was upset to go home.  Next was a race, we made ‘red shoes’ for one person in each patrol and then we raced against each other, the orange patrol won. The last activity was a rainbow themed scavenger hunt.  Father Ciaran came down and joined us and our parents to close the camp with Mass.  The Orange patrol performed for the Homily and then the Mass continued. After Mass, the leaders showed some videos and a powerpoint presentation of what we all got up to in camp.  Overall everyone had a great time and the camp was a great success.  By Emma Cunningham, Anna McLaughlin, Rachael Kelly, Amy Owens, Ciara Verdon and Lauren McKissick

OTHER NOTICES

LIVE BELOW THE LINE WITH CONCERN  –  could you live below the poverty line for five days, feeding yourself on just £1 a day?  The challenge is simple – £1 a day for food and drink for five days.  You’ll have plenty of help from our community of past participants, encouragement form our ambassadors and a website full of useful resources.  For more information and to sign up now please visit livebelowtheline.com/uk/partner/concern or text ‘LIVE’ to 81400.

PILGRIMAGE “IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ST. PAUL”  –   Fr. Paddy Delargy  is organising a Pilgrimage trip to Turkey  following in the footsteps of St. Paul .  Simplified itinerary  is –  Leving mid September.  Fly Dublin to Istanbul to Izmir. Visit Ephesus and other sites associated with the Apostle, flight back to Istanbul, 2 night stay and tour of Istanbul and return to Dublin. Half board accommodation, guided tours all included. Approx. cost is £1000. If you are interested contact Fr. Paddy at 2564 1515.

ARTHRITIS CARE  –  would you like to learn new skills and ideas to manage your pain more effetively?   If so, Arthristis Care is running a Challenging Pain Course in the Skainos Centre, Newtownards Road, this Monday and Monday 10^th March from 10.00am to 1.00pm.  For further details ring their training team on 9078 2940.

CHARITY QUIZ  –  in aid of Barefeet at the Errigle Inn, Ormeau Road, this Thursday.  Starts at 8.00pm, admission is £5 per person, prizes for the
winning team and raffle. Barefeet helps children living on the stree in
Zambia (www.barefeettheatre.org)

BELFAST LIONS  –  are  holding a charity quiz this Thursday evening at 7.30pm in the Wellington Park Hotel. Entry  is £20  per team with a maximum of six in each team. The prize for the winning team is £100  with spot prizes on the night. There will be a raffle and the  proceeds of this and the quiz will raise funds for Diabetes UK our charity of the year and local Lions projects. Belfast Lions club welcomes new members  we meet on the first Wednesday of each month for further information contact Belfast.lions@aol.co.uk.

WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER – this Friday at 8.00pm in Sydenham Methodist Church, Sydenham Avenue.  All welcome.  The service has been written by Women of Egypt on the theme “Streams in the Desert.”  Everyone including the men and youth are welcome.  There is also a downtown service in May Street Presbyterian Church at 11am on 7th March.

CAR BOOT SALE  –  next Saturday, in St. Joseph’s College, Ravenhill Road, from 9.00am to 1.00pm.  £5 per car, £10 per van.  Refreshments and stalls available

CURIOUS CHRISTIANS  –  will meet on Monday 10^th March in the Stye Brae Centre, Gilnahirk at 8.00pm.  After studying Isaiah we have decided either to tell stories from our lives when we experienced something of God’s presence or to tell of bible stories which have special significance for us.  All will be welcome.

COULD YOU GIVE ME LOVE, FUN AND SECURITY … ‘TIL I GROW UP?  – across Belfast there are children of all ages who may never be able to live with their birth parents – they need a permanent home for the rest of their childhood.  If you are resilient, flexible and have the energy and time to care for the demands of a child come along to our information evening to find out more on Wednesday 12^th March from 7.00pm to 9.00pm in the Wellington Park Hotel.  For more information conact Belfast Trust on 9504 0057.

FROM BERGOGLIO SJ TO POPE FRANCIS: “ THE MAKING OF A POPE”  –  Fr Conall O‘Cuinn, SJ will lead us in a dynamic seminar on getting to know and understand our charismatic new leader in the Good Shepherd Centre, Ormeau Road on Wednesday 19^th March form 2.00pm to 4.30pm.  A donation of £5.00 would be appreciated.  Organized by the Conference of Religious of Ireland.

BEGINNING EXPERINCE  –  Are you suffering the pain of loss? Looking for help and understanding?  Beginning Experience (a support group for widowed, separated and divorced people) is offering a Residential Weekend from Friday 21^st to Sunday 23^rd March at Drumalis Retreat and Conference Centre, Larne.  For further information please contact Phil on 9020 7645 or Marie on 075 4207 0835.

TRAVELLING LIGHT  IN LENT –  a quiet retreat day at the Passionist Retreat Centre, Crossgar on Saturday 22^nd March from 10.00am to 4.00pm.  Cost £45.  Leaflet and booking form available at back of Church.  Refreshments and lunch included.  Additional overnight on either Friday and/or Saturday can be arranged.  For further details please contact Mary Cairns on 9087 7936 or 078 8120 4514