Bulletin

VOL. 23 NO. 10 1^ST 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

 

FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – (Page 705, 452 & 499)

4^th Week in Ordinary Time

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

Entrance Antiphon	Save us, O Lord our God! And gather us from the nations, to give thanks to your holy name, and make it our glory to praise you.
1st Reading	(Deuteronomy 18:15-20) I will raise up a prophet and I will put my words into his mouth.
Psalm	O that today you would listen to his voice! Harden not your hearts..
2nd Reading	(1 Corinthians 7:32-35) An unmarried woman can devote herself to the Lord’s affairs; all she need worry about is being holy.
Acclamation	Alleluia, alleluia! Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for revealing the mysteries of the kingdom to mere children. Alleluia!
Gospel	(Mark 1:21-28) He taught them with authority.
Children	Jesus went to the synagogue and began to teach. There was a man who was ill. Jesus healed the man. Everyone who saw this was astonished.   People saw that Jesus’ words have power over evil and sickness.
Communion Antiphon	Let your face shine on your servant. Save me in your merciful love. O Lord, let me never be put to shame, for I call on you.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

Saturday	Sunday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
6.30pm John Doyle & Noel O’Hare	9.30am	9.30am	9.30am	9.30am	9.30am Anointing of the Sick
Confessions at 6.00pm	11.30am

 

 

Could those who are last to leave the Parish grounds

in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

CONFIRMATION SUNDAY

“Come Holy Spirit; fill the hearts of your faithful.”

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

This Sunday we celebrate the conferring of the Sacrament of Confirmation on young people of our parish. The visiting prelate is Bishop Anthony Farquhar and we welcome him to St. Colmcille’s. This is an occasion of great joy for the whole parish. It is a time for all of us to renew our commitment to our Christian calling.

Today we pray that the Holy Spirit will come into the lives of all who are asking to be confirmed in their faith. We pray for: Michael Archer, Paddy Atkins, Scarlet Atkins, Francesca Isabelle Badoy, Isaiah Badoy, Paulina Gabrielle Badoy, Julia Boitel-Gill, Ciaran Bradley, Leon Bury, Niamh Carroll, Blathnaid Cotter, Inga Czechowska, Lewis Deards, Louis Delamare, Delvia Dominic, Donald Dominic, Donel Dominic, Anna Dukelow, Klarisse Fae M. Gallo, Ellie Hawthorne, Ronan Heneghan, Christian Jay Hiponia, Eva Hollywood, Conail Hutchinson, Luke Johnston, Sandra Kempinska, Aman Manoyee, Marcus McConkey, Matthew McConnell, Monica McConville, Bronagh McKeown, Mary McKimm, Tyanna Mielczarek, Brandon Monds, Caoimhe Nugent, Beatrice Presbitero, Jon Roberts, Eve Ryden, Alvyn Shibu, Ronald Matthew Sienes, Eve Sinclair, Rory Small, Tiernan Small, Ellen Strain, Leigh Alexis Tiongson, Ben Toland, Lewis Watson Mc Cready, Anna Welsh, Eimear Wolfe and Lewis Young

“Send forth your Holy Spirit and they shall be created,

and you shall renew the face of the Earth.”

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 10^th February in the Iona Room from 8.00pm to 9.30pm, where parents will receive their Baptismal pack and can arrange the date for their child’s Baptism. Baptisms in the Parish take place on the first and last Sunday of each month and attendance at the course is arranged through Philomena in the Parish Office.

2015 The Year of Consecrated Life

The Diocesan Commission for Religious is holding a celebratory service in St Peter’s Cathedral this Sunday from 3.00pm to 4.00pm. This is a celebration for the whole church. All are invited to attend this celebration, in particular members of St Vincent de Paul, Apostolic Workers, Legion of Mary, members of Koinonia John The Baptist, Teachers and Young People.

SAFEGUARDING

safeguarding committee – will meet this Tuesday evening at 7.30pm in the Committee Room.

Important information for all parishioners who wish to volunteer to work with children and young people: The next vicariate children and young people safeguarding. Information Session is on Monday 23^rd February at Drumbo and Carryduff Parish Hall from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. For anyone who is unable to attend there will be two more sessions in the vicariate before June. More details on dates for these additional sessions will follow. We urge all leaders of groups to encourage their volunteers to attend one training session. If you are planning to attend the session on 23^rd February please let Karen Diamond 077 1110 9268 or Noeleen Dunn 078 7949 8131 know before 14^th February.

PARISH FAMILY

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

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

RECENTLY BAPTISED CHILDREN – if your child was baptised last year in the parish and you wish to keep your child’s card from the Baptism Tree it will be available in the Sacristy after all Masses this weekend.

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 soul of Fred McGuinness, a parishioner, who died on Monday. We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially;

John Doyle, Noel O’Hare, Laura McDowell, Frank McGuire, Arthur McBrinn,

Patricia O’Connor McGuinness, Annie Price, Catherine Mary Higgins,

Molly Gibson and Theresa Gibson.

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

This year’s Parish Draw is being launched next weekend after all Masses..  Committee members will be available at all the Masses for you to purchase a ticket.  Tea & Coffee will be available after both Masses next Sunday in the Parochial Hall. Please show your support to the Parish by purchasing a ticket or two! Any queries please contact Roisin McMullan 078 5414 0019 or Mary Walsh 078 1549 3463.

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. This retreat will create the time and space to help you discern God’s calling in your life.

The retreat will take place in Drumalis Retreat Centre, from Friday 13^th to Sunday 15^th February. If you wish to attend this retreat or would like further information contact: Fr. Kevin McGuckien, on 9061 4567 or email:kevinmcguckien@hotmail.com.

VOCATIONS EVENING – in the Parish of Saintfield on Thursday 30^th April 2015. For more information on vocations please contact Father Kevin McGuckien on 9508 8030.

THIS WEEK

1. BRIGID’S CROSSES – this Sunday is the Feast of St. Brigid. St. Brigid’s Crosses will be available after all Masses this weekend. Suggested donations £1. All proceeds to Third World Charities.

Apostolic Work – will meet this Tuesday evening at 8.00p.m. in the Iona Room

ST COLMCILLE’S GUIDE UNIT – will be holding their Enrolment Ceremony next Saturday evening, at the 6.30pm Mass. The unit would like to invite all parishioners to this celebration when our new members will be enrolled into their relevant sections.

Ballyhackamore Golf Society – will hold their AGM in the Iona Room of the Parochial House next Sunday at 4.00pm. Members and new members welcome.

OTHER NOTICES

Special Pioneer Meeting – of the Down and Connor Diocesan Pioneer Council will take place this Sunday at 3.00pm in Clonard Monastery, Falls Road, Belfast.  Special Guest speakers will be Mr Robert Shannon (National President of the Pioneer Association) and Mrs Mary Brady (Development Officer for the Pioneer Association).

PRAYING THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS – with Padraig O’Tuama at Drumalis, Larne this Thursday and Thursday 12^th February. An opportunity over two evenings to deepen your prayer in preparation for Lent and Easter. 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 2196/2827 6455.

Greater Love – in Clonard Church, this Friday at 8.00pm. Stories, Images and Music from World War One. This is part of the 2015 Four Corners Festival, and has been produced by New Irish Arts – an organisation working in partnership with the Irish Church to present Christianity through the Arts. Tickets £10 at Clonard Reception, online at www.4cornersfestival.com, or at the door on the night.

KNOCK METHODIST DRAMA GROUP – presents “The Wizard of Oz” in the Knock Methodist Centre from Thursday 12^th to Saturday 14^th February at 7.30pm each evening. Tickets can be obtained from Nicola Peden on 078 0249 9628 or 9058 1069.

THE POPE FRANCIS EFFECT – a series of talks being held in Tobar Mhuire, Crossgar during the Tuesday’s in Lent. Tuesday 24^th February – Signs of hope in the Church today? By Father Brian D’Arcy. Brian McKee will give the following the talks: Tuesday 3^rd March – A Voice in the Wilderness? Tuesday 10^th March – Pope Francis – Where does he fit into the papacy? Tuesday 24^th 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!

BALLYHACKAMORE GAA CLUB  – BBC Radio Ulster is making a radio documentary about the former Ballyhackamore GAA club which existed for a brief period between 1969-1971. We are looking for any information about the club and its members. In particular we’d like to speak to anyone who founded it or played for it in the short period of time in which it existed. The contacts are reporter, Kevin Magee on 079 6890 4616 or Kevin.magee@bbc.co.uk and producer Anna-Marie McFaul on 077 1996 4907 or Anna-Marie.mcfaul@bbc.co.uk.

VOL. 23 NO. 09 25^TH JANUARY 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 IN ORDINARY TIME – (Page 702, 452 & 499)

3^rd Week in Ordinary Time

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

EntranceAntiphon	O sing a new song to the Lord; sing to the Lord, all the earth. In his presence are majesty and splendour, strength and honour in his holy place.
1st Reading	(Jonah 3:1-5, 10) The people of Neneveh renouce their evil behaviour.
Psalm	Lord, make me know your ways.
2nd Reading	(1 Corinthians 7:29-31) The world as we know it is passing away.
Acclamation	Alleluia, alleluia! The kingdom of God is close at hand; believe the Good News. Alleluia!
Gospel	(Mark 1:14-20) Repent, and believe the Good News.
Children	Jesus asks Peter, Andrew, James and John to stop being fishermen, and to follow him.   He asks them to help to build the kingdom of God.
CommunionAntiphon	Look towards the Lord and be radiant; let your faces not be abashed.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

Saturday	Sunday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
6.30pm	9.30amJohn Clarke	9.30am	9.30am	9.30am	9.30amAnointing of the Sick
Confessions at 6.00pm	11.30amAntonio Logronio, Pat Morris & Brendan Small

 

 

Could those who are last to leave the Parish grounds

in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

Begins this Sunday and ends on Sunday 1^st February. The theme for Catholic Schools Week 2015 is: ‘Catholic Schools – Called to Serve’.  This is an opportunity to celebrate the unique contribution that Catholic schools, both primary and post-primary, make to the mission of the Church in our local faith communities and throughout the wider church.

GRANDPARENTS’ DAY – in conjunction with the celebration of Catholic Schools Week, St. Joseph’s Primary School are inviting all Grandparents to visit the school and see your grandchild hard at work, this Tuesday. Tea and tray bakes wil be provided for our special grandparents at 11.00am in the School Hall. Following this Grandparents are welcome to walk around the school, visit the classes and help your grandchild with their work.

SCHOOL MASS – the parish will join in the celebrations by having a special Mass at 9.30am this Wednesday with the children from St Joseph’s school.

SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION

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

Next Sunday we celebrate the conferring of the Sacrament of Confirmation on young people of our parish during the 11.30am Mass. The visiting prelate is Bishop Tony Farquhar and we welcome him to St. Colmcille’s. This is an occasion of great joy for the whole parish. It is a time for all of us to renew our commitment to our Christian calling. Please remember especially in your prayers the 50 young people who are preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. We pray that the Holy Spirit will come into the lives of all who are asking to be confirmed in their faith.

2015 The Year of Consecrated Life

The Diocesan Commission for Religious is holding a celebratory service in St Peter’s Cathedral next Sunday from 3.00pm to 4.00pm. This is a celebration for the whole church. All are invited to attend this celebration, in particular members of St Vincent de Paul, Apostolic Workers, Legion of Mary, members of Koinonia John The Baptist, Teachers and Young People.

CREATING PASTORAL COMMUNITIES

As we look towards the future in our diocese we have learned quite a bit from the experience of other dioceses in Ireland and around the world. They have learned that successful communities are focussed on mission, have good working relationships between clergy and laity and a substantial population. They should reflect existing community networks and, in rural areas, they should be gathered around a central hub. You are invited to read the Consultation Document available on the Diocesan Website perhaps paying particular attention to our local proposed Pastoral Community. www.downandconnor.org

FUNDRAISING WITHIN THE PARISH

Due to the many financial appeals to parishioners, it has become necessary to regularise special collections and fundraising events, so that parishioners don’t feel overburdened.

Therefore, permission to collect money within the Parish will be required. If the fundraising event is being hosted outside the Parish, organisers will be able to advertise in the bulletin, but will not be able to market the event in the Parish grounds.

In order for collections to be evenly spread out and for parishioners not to feel overburdened, an application form needs to be completed at least 3 months before the event. Application forms are available to download from the parish website or from Philomena in the Parish Office.

PARISH FAMILY

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

RECENTLY BAPTISED CHILDREN – if your child was baptised last year in the parish and you wish to keep your child’s card from the Baptism Tree it will be available in the Sacristy after all Masses this weekend.

MONEY MATTERS                 

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

DECEASED

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

Pat Grant, Bridie Grant, Marcelino Dumalagan, Aileen Hurley, Maureen Brown,

John Clarke, Antonio Logronio, Pat Morris, Brendan Small, Claire Knox,

George Duffy, Charlotte Duffy, Mary Neeson and William Neeson.

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

This year’s Parish Draw is being launched on Saturday 7^th February & Sunday 8^th February.  Committee members will be available at all the Masses for you to purchase a ticket.  Tea & Coffee will be available after both Masses on Sunday in the Parochial Hall. Please show your support to the Parish by purchasing a ticket or two! Any queries please contact Roisin McMullan 078 5414 0019 or Mary Walsh 078 1549 3463.

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. This retreat will create the time and space to help you discern God’s calling in your life.

The retreat will take place in Drumalis Retreat Centre, from Friday 13^th to Sunday 15^th February. If you wish to attend this retreat or would like further information contact: Fr. Kevin McGuckien, on 9061 4567 or email:kevinmcguckien@hotmail.com.

VOCATIONS EVENING – in the Parish of Saintfield on Thursday 30^th April 2015. For more information on vocations please contact Father Kevin McGuckien on 9508 8030.

 

THIS WEEK

DTIM – The ‘Do This In Memory of Me’ pre sacramental programme for children preparing for the sacrament of Holy Communion, will take place at the 9.30am Mass this Sunday.

PTA – cake sale on this Sunday in the Parochial Hall after each Mass. Proceeds are in aid of St. Joseph’s School.

 

OTHER NOTICES

BALLYHACKAMORE GAA CLUB  – BBC Radio Ulster is making a radio documentary about the former Ballyhackamore GAA club which existed for a brief period between 1969-1971. We are looking for any information about the club and its members. In particular we’d like to speak to anyone who founded it or played for it in the short period of time in which it existed. The contacts are reporter, Kevin Magee on 079 6890 4616 or Kevin.magee@bbc.co.uk and producer Anna-Marie McFaul on 077 1996 4907 or Anna-Marie.mcfaul@bbc.co.uk.

Special Pioneer Meeting – of the Down and Connor Diocesan Pioneer Council will take place next Sunday at 3.00pm in Clonard Monastery, Falls Road, Belfast.  Special Guest speakers will be Mr Robert Shannon (National President of the Pioneer Association) and Mrs Mary Brady (Development Officer for the Pioneer Association).  All Pioneer Council representatives within the Diocese are warmly invited to attend this important meeting.

PRAYING THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS – with Padraig O’Tuama at Drumalis, Larne on Thursday 5^th and Thursday 12^th February. An opportunity over two evenings to deepen your prayer in preparation for Lent and Easter. 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 2196/2827 6455.

KNOCK METHODIST DRAMA GROUP – presents “The Wizard of Oz” in the Knock Methodist Centre from Thursday 12^th to Saturday 14^th February at 7.30pm each evening. Tickets can be obtained from Nicola Peden on 078 0249 9628 or 9058 1069.

PILGRIMAGE TO FATIMA – from Thursday 25th June to Thursday 2nd July 2015. 7 nights full board en suite £589.00 fully inc. free insurance, free tax, free coach to airport. For more information contact the Spiritual Director Rita O’Neill on 075 5435 4157.

LIVING YOUTH  – Summer Pilgrimage.  Are you 17-23?  Why not join us as we journey to celebrate the life and mission of St Columbanus in Milan, Piacenza, Bergamo and Bobbio.  2^nd – 7^th August 2015.  £690 includes flights, transfers, accommodation, half board, t-shirts and hoodie.  Application forms available from the Living Youth website www.livingyouthni.org.  Closing date is this Thursday.

 

VOL. 23 NO. 08 18^TH JANUARY 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 IN ORDINARY TIME – (Page 698, 452 & 499)

2^nd Week in Ordinary Time

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

Entrance Antiphon	All the earth shall bow down before you, O God, and shall sing to you, shall sing to your name, O Most High!
1st Reading	(1 Samuel 3:3-10, 19) Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.
Psalm	Here I am Lord! I come to do your will.
2nd Reading	(1 Corinthians 6:13-15, 17-20) Your bodies are members making up the body of Christ.
Acclamation	Alleluia, alleluia! Speak, Lord, your servant is listening: you have the message of eternla life.   Alleluia!
Gospel	(John 1:35-42) They saw where he lived, and stayed with him.
Children	Jesus begins to make friends with people who will help him spread the Good News of God’s love.
Communion Antiphon	You have prepared a table before me, and how precious is the chalice that quenches my thirst.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

Saturday	Sunday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
6.30pm Nicholas McKenna	9.30am	9.30am Prayer Service	9.30am Prayer Service	9.30am Prayer Service	9.30am Prayer Service
Confessions at 6.00pm	11.30am Adelina Limisip

 

Could those who are last to leave the Parish grounds

in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

CREATING PASTORAL COMMUNITIES

As we look towards the future in our diocese we have learned quite a bit from the experience of other dioceses in Ireland and around the world. They have learned that successful communities are focussed on mission, have good working relationships between clergy and laity and a substantial population. They should reflect existing community networks and, in rural areas, they should be gathered around a central hub. You are invited to read the Consultation Document available on the Diocesan Website perhaps paying particular attention to our local proposed Pastoral Community. www.downandconnor.org

FUNDRAISING WITHIN THE PARISH

Due to the many financial appeals to parishioners, it has become necessary to regularise special collections and fundraising events, so that parishioners don’t feel overburdened.

Therefore, permission to collect money within the Parish will be required. If the fundraising event is being hosted outside the Parish, organisers will be able to advertise in the bulletin, but will not be able to market the event in the Parish grounds. In order for collections to be evenly spread out and for parishioners not to feel overburdened, an application form needs to be completed at least 3 months before the event. Application forms are available to download from the parish website or from Philomena in the Parish Office.

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 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

PASTORAL LETTER – following the publication of Pope Francis’ World Day of Peace Message 2015 Bishop Treanor has published a Pastoral Letter on the topic of Slavery & Human Exploitation.  The Pastoral Letter explores themes such as human dignity, Catholic social teaching, our attitude towards the marginalised and our baptismal and corporate responsibility to do what we can to address these issues in our parish community and in our society.

BAPTISM – we welcome into the parish family Daniel Thomas Harkin who was baptised in St. Colmcilles last weekend.

RECENTLY BAPTISED CHILDREN – if your child was baptised last year in the parish and you wish to keep your child’s card from the Baptism Tree it will be available in the Sacristy after all Masses this weekend.

MONEY MATTERS     

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

DIOCESAN YOUTH COMMISSION COLLECTION – will be taken up at all Masses this weekend. There is a flyer called “Supporting our Young People and Young Adults on their Faith Journey” available at the back of the Church, giving details of the work being carried out by the Youth Commmisson in the Diocese.

DECEASED

We pray for the repose of the souls of Thomas Varkey, Thomas Fusco and Moya Hinds, who died recently. We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially;

Nicholas Nelson, Margaret Boylan, Kathleen McKenna, Nicholas McKenna,

Raymond O’Neill, Daniel McNaughton, Nuala McKinley,

Adelina Limisip, Paddy O’Callaghan and Patricia O’Callaghan

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.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

Begins next Sunday and ends on Sunday 1^st February. The theme for Catholic Schools Week 2015 is: ‘Catholic Schools – Called to Serve’.  This is an opportunity to celebrate the unique contribution that Catholic schools, both primary and post-primary, make to the mission of the Church in our local faith communities and throughout the wider church.

GRANDPARENTS’ DAY – in conjunction with the celebration of Catholic Schools Week, St. Joseph’s Primary School are inviting all Grandparents to visit the school and see your grandchild hard at work, on Tuesday 27^th January. Tea and tray bakes wil be provided for our special grandparents at 11.00am in the School Hall. Following this Grandparents are welcome to walk around the school, visit the classes and help your grandchild with their work

SCHOOL MASS – the parish will join in the celebrations by having a special Mass at 9.30am on Wednesday 28^th January with the children from St Joseph’s school.

PARISH DRAW

This year’s Parish Draw is being launched on Saturday 7^th February & Sunday 8^th February.  Committee members will be available at all the Masses for you to purchase a ticket.  Tea & Coffee will be available after both Masses on Sunday in the Parochial Hall. Please show your support to the Parish by purchasing a ticket or two! Any queries please contact Roisin McMullan 078 5414 0019 or Mary Walsh 078 1549 3463.

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. This retreat will create the time and space to help you discern God’s calling in your life.

The retreat will take place in Drumalis Retreat Centre, from Friday 13^th to Sunday 15^th February. If you wish to attend this retreat or would like further information contact: Fr. Kevin McGuckien, on 9061 4567 or email:kevinmcguckien@hotmail.com.

VOCATIONS EVENING – in the Parish of Saintfield on Thursday 30^th April 2015. For more information on vocations please contact Father Kevin McGuckien on 9508 8030.

THIS WEEK

SERVICE OF LIGHT – a service of commitment for the young people who are preparing for Confirmation, will be held  this Saturday at the 6.30pm Mass.  Confirmation will take place on Sunday 1^st February at 11.30am Mass.

BELMONT AND DISTRICT COUNCIL OF CHURCHES – will hold its Church Unity Week Service this Sunday at 6.30pm in Knocknagoney Parish Church. Please come along and join the members of the other Churches in prayer.

Scripture and Prayer Group – Our next meeting is this Tuesday at 8.00pm in the Committee Room. We will continue with our reflections on the Gospel of St Mark.

PTA – cake sale on next Sunday in the Parochial Hall after each Mass. Proceeds are in aid of St. Joseph’s School.

St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal 2014

St. Colmcille’s Conference of St. Vincent de Paul would like to thank everyone who contributed to our Christmas Appeal. Thanks to your extraordinary generosity the Appeal in the Parish raised £12,000, of which more than £6,000 was gift aided, an astonishing sum in one parish. This enabled us to help more than 40 families in the weeks before Christmas, and will enable us to help those who seek assistance from us throughout this winter with fuel, food, clothes and other necessities. Thank you for your tremendous support.

 

OTHER NOTICES

HELP WANTED  – parishioner seeks help 2 to 3 hours a week for light domestic work, no heavy lifting expected. Remuneration negotiable and time flexible. Please contact Peter Stobart on 9045 9491 for further details.

Belfast Beginning Experience – are you suffering the pain of loss? Looking for help and understanding? Beginning Experience (a support group for widowed, separated and divorced people) meets every Wednesday from 8.00pm to 10.00pm in St Bride’s Hall,.  For further information please contact Phil on 9020 7645 or Marie on 075 4207 0835.

Special Pioneer Meeting – of the Down and Connor Diocesan Pioneer Council will take place on Sunday 1^st February at 3.00pm in Clonard Monastery, Falls Road, Belfast.  Special Guest speakers will be Mr Robert Shannon (National President of the Pioneer Association) and Mrs Mary Brady (Development Officer for the Pioneer Association).  All Pioneer Council representatives within the Diocese are warmly invited to attend this important meeting.

PRAYING THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS – with Padraig O’Tuama at Drumalis, Larne on Thursday 5^th and Thursday 12^th February. An opportunity over two evenings to deepen your prayer in preparation for Lent and Easter. 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 2196/2827 6455.

PILGRIMAGE TO FATIMA – from Thursday 25th June to Thursday 2nd July 2015. 7 nights full board en suite £589.00 fully inc. free insurance, free tax, free coach to airport. For more information contact the Spiritual Director Rita O’Neill on 075 5435 4157.

LIVING YOUTH  – Summer Pilgrimage.  Are you 17-23?  Why not join us as we journey to celebrate the life and mission of St Columbanus in Milan, Piacenza, Bergamo and Bobbio.  2^nd – 7^th August 2015.  £690 includes flights, transfers, accommodation, half board, t-shirts and hoodie.  Application forms available from the Living Youth website www.livingyouthni.org.  Closing date:  Thursday 29^th January 2015.