St. Colmcilles

SUNDAY BULLETIN

VOL. 22 NO. 12  16^TH  FEBRUARY 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

 

 

EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

 

 

Could those who are last to leave the Parish grounds 

in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

ARRANGEMENTS FOR BAPTISM IN OUR PARISH 

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

 

PARISH FAMILY

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 11-16^th) – £570 in hotel or £470 in hospital; 7 nights (10-17^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

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.

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.

EVANGELII GAUDIUM  –  “The Joy of the Gospel” by Pope Francis, copies of the book are at the back of the Church.  Price £5 each, please put money in either of the Candelabra boxes.

WEEKLY CATHOLIC PAPERS AND MAGAZINES FOR SALE –  the following are available on a weekly basis in the porch of the Church: Ireland’s Own, Universe, Catholic Times, Irish Catholic and Catholic Herald.  Please put money in box at any of the Candelabras.

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 box at any of the Candelabras.

TRAINING – for young people who would like to join the Prayer of the Faithful rota begins this Wednesday in the Hall. Enquiries to Noeleen 078 7949 8131.

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

Eva Haan, Dick Dale, Ted O’Neill,  Gary Morris, John Feenan and Maureen McGonnell.

MONEY MATTERS

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

The collection for Sick and Retired Priests will be taken up at all Masses this weekend.  This collection is required for the ongoing needs in respect of the Sick & Retired Priests of the Diocese. Despite the availability of the funds raised through the recent ‘Planning for the Future’ Campaign, the ‘Priests’ Provident Fund’ continues to require ongoing funding if it is to carry on meeting the needs of Sick & Retired Priests into the future.

VOCATIONS

You have heard God’s commandments.  Keep them and pass them on.  Nurturing the faith is part of the Christian vocation.  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

HALL COMMITTEE–  meeting this Monday evening at 7.30pm

SCRIPTURE AND PRAYER GROUP  –  will meet this Tuesday evening in the Committee Room at 8.00pm.  We will reflect on the readings for the 7^th and 8^th Sundays in  Cycle A

LAUNCH OF PARISH DRAW  –  this year’s draw is being launched at all Masses next weekend. Committee members will be at the back of the church on the Saturday night and on Sunday after all the Masses. There will be free tea & coffee available in the Parochial Hall. Please show your support to the Parish by purchasing a ticket or two! Any queries please contact Roisin McMullan 078 5414 0019.

COMING EVENTS

 

ALTAR SERVERS – will meet on a monthly basis on the last Monday of the month in the Colmcille Room from 6.15pm to 7.15pm, starting on Monday 24^th February.  The meetings are designed to help the Altar Servers to grow in their faith, understand the Mass better and be able to participate more fully in the ritual of service at Mass.

SAFEGUARDING  –  those who are volunteering with children and young people in the parish and who have not yet attended a Safeguarding Information Session should attend the next one that the Diocese is providing on Wednesday 26^th February at 7.30pm in St Malachy’s Hall, Alfred St.  Please register your intention to attend with Karen 077 1110 9268 or Noeleen  078 7949 8131.

UP STANDING – a short DVD presentation of stories of courage from Northern Ireland, featuring diverse accounts from people who stood up to violence, discrimination or prejudice which hopefully will prompt some discussion, on Thursday 27^th February in the Iona Room at 10.00am. Refreshments available.

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 on Thursday 6^th March in the Colmcille Room, from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. Enquiries to Noeleen : 078 7949 8131.

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

ST. JOSEPH’S PTA  –  would like to extend their thanks to everyone who supported their cake sale last Sunday.  Thanks to your generosity the event raised £695 which will be given to the school and used to enhance the learning experiences of the children.

OTHER NOTICES

CLEANER REQUIRED  –  for private house in Ballyhackamore.  2to 3 hours per week  (flexible). Please contact Siobhan on 079 1813 6037.

ST. BRIGID’S DAY LECTURE  –  this Thursday at 7.30pm in St Brigid’s Church, Windsor Avenue, Belfast.  Speaker: Fr Timothy Radcliffe, O.P.  Fr Timothy Radcliffe is a member of the Dominican Community, Blackfriars, Oxford and was Master of the Order, 1992 – 2001. He is the author of a number of books and is internationally renowned as a teacher, preacher and speaker.  He will, in his lecture, reflect on new paths for the Church’s journey in the light of Pope Francis’ recent document “The Joy of the Gospel” (Evangelii Gaudium).  All are welcome.

CURIOUS CHRISTIANS  –  discussion group continues in the Stye Brae Centre, Gilnahirk on Monday 24^th February at 8.00pm. The theme is “How to Read Isaiah” with particular emphasis on Chapter 53. Discussion will be led by Rev. Bill Boyd. All are welcome.”

IN JOYFUL HOPE – A NEW STEP IN EUCHARISTIC COMMUNION  –  this special event is being held in St. Anne’s Church on Tuesday, 25^th February at 8.00 pm.  Everybody is Welcome.  Spread the word and spread the Welcome!

INTERDENOMINATIONAL DIVINE HEALING MINISTRIES  –  invite you to come to a special healing service to be held in St. Peter’s Cathedral, on Wednesday, 26th February at 7.00pm.  The speaker will be Brother David Jardine and he will be speaking on the theme ‘I will not live in fear’.  Music will be provided by Deo Soli and prayer for healing and blessing with oil will be available at the end of this service.  All will be very welcome to stay for refreshments afterwards’

THE PERFECT TREAT FOR YOUR VALENTINE  –  based on the play ‘The Matchmaker’, St. Agnes’ Choral Society is delighted to announce that it will be performing the much loved classic ‘Hello, Dolly!’ in the Grand Opera House, from Wednesday 26^th February to Saturday 1^st March. Tickets can be booked by phoning 9024 1919 or online at www.goh.co.uk.

GOD’S CREATION IN THE LIFE & MISSION OF CHURCHES TODAY  –  an Inter-Church event being held in Fitzroy Presbyterian Church, University Street on Friday 28^th February at 7.30pm.  For further details please phone 9023 5075 or see poster in porch.

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, on Monday 3^rd and Monday 10^th March from 10.00am to 1.00pm.  For further details ring their training team on 9078 2940.

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.

ADOPTERS NEEDED NOW  –  Family Care Adoption Services is presently seeking families who would be interested in adopting children aged between 2 and 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    or 7136 8592 or email@familycaresociety.org.  Further information can be found on their website www.familycaresociety.co.uk.

SUNDAY BULLETIN

VOL. 22 NO. 11  9^TH  FEBRUARY 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

 

 

EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

 

 

Could those who are last to leave the Parish grounds 

in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

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 18^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.

 

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

TROCAIRE  –  Eamonn Meehan has written on behalf of Trócaire and the families and communities they help, to thank the people of Down and Connor for the most generous donation of €471,741.77 to the shared Philippines and Syria Emergency Appeal.   With regard to the work being carried out by Trócaire, Eamonn Meehan states:  “In Syria thousands of families are being supported through the provision of emergency shelter, food, water, hygiene kits and other basic needs.  We are also providing educational support to ensure children have access to education during this crisis.  In the short term, families in the Philippines are also being supported through the provision of emergency shelter, food, water and other basic needs.  In the longer term, Trócaire expects to provide further support to enable families to rebuild their lives.  Once again I would like to express our deep appreciation for the remarkable and invaluable support of the Diocese of Down and Connor to the emergency appeal.  Following on from the support of Lent we are deeply grateful for this remarkable display of solidarity and generosity with the people of the Philippines and Syria.”

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.

EVANGELII GAUDIUM  –  “The Joy of the Gospel” by Pope Francis, copies of the book are at the back of the Church.  Price £5 each, please put money in either of the Candelabra boxes.

WEEKLY CATHOLIC PAPERS AND MAGAZINES FOR SALE –  the following are available on a weekly basis in the porch of the Church: Ireland’s Own, Universe, Catholic Times, Irish Catholic and Catholic Herald.  Please put money in box at any of the Candelabras.

TRAINING – for young people who would like to join the Prayer of the Faithful rota begins this Wednesday in the Hall. Enquiries to Noeleen 078 7949 8131.

DECEASED –   We pray for the repose of the soul of Manus McGuinness, who died recently.  We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Kevin Ballantine,  Gerard Kiely,  John McKenna,  Agnes McKenna,

Frank McEvoy,  Pat O’Callaghan,  Patricia O’Callaghan  and Pat Slack.

MONEY MATTERS

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

The collection for Sick and Retired Priests will be taken up at all Masses next weekend.  This collection is required for the ongoing needs in respect of the Sick & Retired Priests of the Diocese. Despite the availability of the funds raised through the recent ‘Planning for the Future’ Campaign, the ‘Priests’ Provident Fund’ continues to require ongoing funding if it is to carry on meeting the needs of Sick & Retired Priests into the future.

VOCATIONS

VOCATION WEEKEND – A Vocation Weekend for Students and young men will take place in Drumalis Retreat House, Larne from this Friday to next Sunday.  The Weekend is for anyone who is thinking about the possibility of a Vocation to the Priesthood or Religious Life.  Anyone interested should contact Fr. John Murray St. Michael’s Presbytery, 200 Finaghy Road North, Belfast BT11 9EG or phone 9091 3761 for further information.  You can also email Fr John at 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

SPECIAL MASS FOR THE SICK AND HOUSEBOUND  –  each year we mark the World Day of the Sick by holding a special liturgy. The sick and housebound in the parish, together with their families and carers are invited to Mass, in the Church this Saturday at 6.30p.m.  We hope to be able to provide transport so that people will get the opportunity to join us for Mass. If you require transport contact Mary Walsh at 078 1549 3463 or Marina McConville on 077 7563 2066.   After the Mass, there will be refreshments served in the Parochial Hall for the sick and their carers.

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.

ST. JOSEPH’S PTA  –  are holding their annual fundraising cake sale in the Parochial Hall, this Sunday, after 9.30am and 11.30am Masses.  Everyone welcome.  Come and join us! Buy some treats and have a cuppa and a catch up with your fellow parishioners. All proceeds will go directly to improving the educational experiences of the pupils at the school. Donations of buns/cakes also welcome.  Contact Louise on 079 9070 0169.

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

WEDNESDAY CLUB  –  are having a Butter Making Demonstration in the Parochial Hall this Wednesday afternoon at 2.00pm.  All welcome.  Why not come along and enjoy the craic.

COMING EVENTS

 

SCRIPTURE AND PRAYER GROUP  –  this group meets on the third Tuesday of each month. Our next meeting is on Tuesday 18^th February in the Committee Room at 8.00pm.

ST. VINCEMT DE PAUL UPDATE

As president of St Colmcille’s I was invited to attend a one afternoon civic forum titled Tackling Poverty Together at Belfast City Hall. The event took place on 20^th January and was hosted by Belfast’s Lord Mayor, Councillor  Mairtin O’ Muilleoir.

The forum focused on poverty, the impact of welfare reform and the role of Government.  Examples were outlined which demonstrated what is actually happening on the ground as a result of current policy.

Figures released by the Government this year show parts of East Belfast as one of the most deprived areas in Northern Ireland.  Three of the ten most deprived areas in the UK are located in Northern Ireland.

St Colmcille’s and St Matthew’s SVP Conferences jointly cover the East Belfast area. This includes the Clarawood, Braniel , Tullycarnet, Dundonald and Ballybeen areas of our Parish .

We are a busy conference visiting on average 6 families each week. At present, the majority of our members are near or above retirement age and this is a significant concern given the increasing demand for our services.

We need to recruit new members from our parish to strengthen the group and enable us to meet the needs of our local community.

As members of conference, we feel that the voluntary work we do is essential, worthwhile and rewarding.

We are asking you to consider joining us to provide this vital service to those less fortunate than ourselves.

If you would like more information please speak to any member of the Society after any of the weekend Masses.

OTHER NOTICES

IN THE FOOTSEPS OF ST. PAUL  –  Fr Paddy Delargy, All Saints Parish, Ballymena proposes to organize a pilgrimage in April or September/October 2014 flying Dublin Instanbul or Dublin Antalya.   To express interest contact All Saints Parish Office 2564 1515.

CURIOUS CHRISTIANS  – plan to look at “How do we read the Bible”, with particular reference to the book of Isaiah. Bill Boyd will lead our thinking, and it would be useful to have read Chapter 28 before we arrive.  We meet at 8.00pm in the Stye Brae Centre, Gilnahirk, this Monday and all will be welcome.

GILNAHIRK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH  – Women’s Guild Concert with the ‘Contact Singers’ will be held at 7.45pm this Wednesday in the Church Hall.  Tickets £10 (including supper) are available from the Church Office Tuesday to Friday mornings on 9040 3589).

ST. BRIGID’S DAY LECTURE  –  on Thursday 20th February 2014 at 7.30pm in St Brigid’s Church, Windsor Avenue, Belfast.  Speaker: Fr Timothy Radcliffe, O.P.  Fr Timothy Radcliffe is a member of the Dominican Community, Blackfriars, Oxford and was Master of the Order, 1992 – 2001. He is the author of a number of books and is internationally renowned as a teacher, preacher and speaker.  He will, in his lecture, reflect on new paths for the Church’s journey in the light of Pope Francis’ recent document “The Joy of the Gospel” (Evangelii Gaudium).  All are welcome.

“IN JOYFUL HOPE – A NEW STEP IN EUCHARISTIC COMMUNION”  –  this special event is being held in St. Anne’s Church on Tuesday, 25^th February at 8.00 pm.  Everybody is Welcome.  Spread the word and spread the Welcome!

THE PERFECT TREAT FOR YOUR VALENTINE  –  based on the play ‘The Matchmaker’, St. Agnes’ Choral Society is delighted to announce that it will be performing the much loved classic ‘Hello, Dolly!’ in the Grand Opera House, from Wednesday 26^th February to Saturday 1^st March. Tickets can be booked by phoning 9024 1919 or online at www.goh.co.uk.

 

PRAXIS CARE  –  has received funding to offer a Befriending Service within the Belfast Trust area to individuals who face social isolation as a result of their mental ill health.  This service is delivered by trained volunteers who meet up with their Praxis Care friend approximately once a week to go for a coffee, out for a walk, to an event – anything that will help reduce the isolation felt by the individual. We are now recruiting volunteers to get involved with this vital work in our community, do you know anyone that would make an excellent Befriending volunteer?  More and more people around us feel isolated and lonely, this is one way to reduce that and make a difference in our local community.  For more information contact Catherine on 9072 7161 or catherinelittle@praxiscare.org.uk

SUNDAY BULLETIN

VOL. 22 NO. 10  2^ND FEBRUARY 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

 

Saturday	Sunday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
6.30pm Kenneth Mains & Bill Knox	9.30am Danny Barclay	9.30am Eucharistic Prayer Service	9.30am Eucharistic Prayer Service	9.30am Eucharistic Prayer Service	9.30am Eucharistic Prayer Service
Confessions at 6.00pm	11.30am

 

Confirmation will be celebrated in the parish

at 11.30am Mass this Sunday. 

 

Saturday	Sunday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
6.00pm

 

 

“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 Donal McKeown 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: Harsha Abraham, Molly Atkins, Marielle Braga, Maverick James Kingston F Bungay, Tiernan Byrne, Shelby Lane Camilo, Niamh Collins, Ben Cunningham, Matthew Dawson, Abi Dynan, Adrian Escartin, Ronan Geoghegan, Lucy Gilfedder, Gareth Gibson, Connor Harkin, Natalia Karpinska, Brandon Logronio, JB Manticahon, Ben McAteer, Dillon McMullan, Dylan McMahon, Eamonn McPeake, Margaret McQuillan, Gosia Mlynarczyk, Ben Napier, James Napier, Rhys O’Mahony-Truesdale, Cezary Radulski, Cara Sinclair, Ellen Small, Ben Strahan, Tenson Thomas, Joshua Vance and Claire Whiteside

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

and you shall renew the face of the Earth.”

St Colmcilles has set up a Bereavement Support group to be present for and to listen to anyone suffering bereavement after a death, regardless of how long ago the death occurred. The group is here for all, regardless of culture, faith or no faith and is made up of nine parishioners who have all been trained by NI Hospice professionals; on-going training and guidance will continue with the Hospice team.  If you wish to know more about Bereavement Support please telephone us on 074 5698 9458 or complete a Request form and place in the Bereavement Support Box situated at the back of the Church and one of the group will make contact with you. The members of the group are: Regiena Babu, Eileen Brogan, Eithne Daly, Maire Devine, Brenda McMeekin, David McMeekin, Celine Molloy, Joan Rogan, Lucy Traynor.

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.

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.

EVANGELII GAUDIUM  –  “The Joy of the Gospel” by Pope Francis, copies of the book are at the back of the Church.  Price £5 each, please put money in either of the Candelabra boxes.

TRAINING – for young people who would like to join the Prayer of the Faithful rota begins on Wednesday 12th February in the Hall. Enquiries to Noeleen 078 7949 8131.

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 Tobias Gal who was baptised in St. Colmcilles last weekend.

DECEASED –   We pray for the repose of the souls of Pat Morris, a parishioner, who died last weekend, Laura McDowell; a parishioner, who died on Wednesday; Noel O’Hare, a parihsioner, who died on Thursday; Olga Hughes, a former parishioner, who died recently; Antonio Logronio, the father of a parishioner, who died last weekend and for Tom O’Gorman, who died recently.  We also remember Kenneth Mains and Bill Knox, whose month’s mind occurs this weekend and for all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Arthur McBrinn,  Annie Price,  Paddy O’Callaghan,  Patricia O’Callaghan,  Len Martin,  Francis Martin,  Mr Wilson,  Mrs Wilson, Marcelino Dumalagan,

James Owens,  John Wilson  and Ivy Smyth.

MONEY MATTERS

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

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

VOCATION WEEKEND – A Vocation Weekend for Students and young men will take place in Drumalis Retreat House, Larne from Friday 14^th to Sunday 16^th February.  The Weekend is for anyone who is thinking about the possibility of a Vocation to the Priesthood or Religious Life.  Anyone interested should contact Fr. John Murray St. Michael’s Presbytery, 200 Finaghy Road North, Belfast BT11 9EG or phone 9091 3761 for further information.  You can also email Fr John at 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.

ST. BRIGID’S CROSSES  –  St. Brigid’s Crosses will be available after all Masses this weekend.  Donation requested £1.  All money goes to Third World Charities

SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION –  will take place this Sunday at 11.30am Mass.

BALLYHACKAMORE GOLF SOCIETY  –  will hold their Annual General Meeting this Sunday in the Iona Room of the Parochial Hall at 4.00pm.  All members are welcome to attend. New members will also be welcomed. Further information is available from Peter 907 63822.

APOSTOLIC WORK  –  next meeting will be this Tuesday evening at 8.00pm in the Iona Room.

SPECIAL MASS FOR THE SICK AND HOUSEBOUND  –  each year we mark the World Day of the Sick by holding a special liturgy. The sick and housebound in the parish, together with their families and carers are invited to Mass, in the Church next Saturday at 6.30p.m.  We hope to be able to provide transport so that people will get the opportunity to join us for Mass. If you require transport contact Mary Walsh at 078 1549 3463 or Marina McConville on 077 7563 2066.   After the Mass, there will be refreshments served in the Parochial Hall for the sick and their carers.

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 next Sunday.

ST. JOSEPH’S PTA  –  are holding their annual fundraising cake sale in the Parochial Hall, next Sunday, after 9.30am and 11.30am Masses.  Everyone welcome.  Come and join us! Buy some treats and have a cuppa and a catch up with your fellow parishioners. All proceeds will go directly to improving the educational experiences of the pupils at the school. Donations of buns/cakes also welcome.  Contact Louise on 079 9070 0169.

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

 

 

IN THE FOOTSEPS OF ST. PAUL  –  Fr Paddy Delargy, All Saints Parish, Ballymena proposes to organize a pilgrimage in April or September/October 2014 flying Dublin Instanbul or Dublin Antalya.   To express interest contact All Saints Parish Office 2564 1515.

HEARING LOSS?  –  Action on Hearing loss runs a free Hear to Meet group at Harvester House Court, 4-8 Adelaide Street, Belfast.  The next session is scheduled for this Friday from 10.30am to 12.30pm. If you’re over 55 and have a hearing loss, come along, and make new friends by meeting other people who understand what it is like to live with hearing loss and enjoy activities. We’ll be happy to meet you!

BEING SURPRISED BY JOY  –  re-inhabiting the Earth Spring Conference in Drumalis from this Friday to next Sunday.  We are delighted to have Mary Colwell as the keynote speaker for this annual environmental conference. Mary is an award winning television producer, feature writer for “The Tablet” and consultant on the relationship between religion and the natural world.   It is possible to attend on a residential or non-residential basis for the full weekend and there is also the opportunity to attend for the day only on Saturday. For further details or to book a place, please contact Drumalis on 2827 2196 or 2827 6455.  Booking forms can also be downloaded from www.drumalis.co.uk

BELFAST PIONEER REGION  –  the AGM of the Belfast Pioneer Regional Council will take place in Clonard Monastery at 3.00pm next Sunday.   All adult Pioneers are welcome to come along and have their say about Pioneer affairs within the Belfast Region.  Please come along and help shape the future of the Belfast Pioneer Council

CURIOUS CHRISTIANS  – plan to look at “How do we read the Bible”, with particular reference to the book of Isaiah. Bill Boyd will lead our thinking, and it would be useful to have read Chapter 28 before we arrive.  We meet at 8.00pm in the Stye Brae Centre, Gilnahirk, on Monday 10^th February and all will be welcome.

GILNAHIRK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH  – Women’s Guild Concert with the ‘Contact Singers’ will be held at 7.45pm on Wednesday 12th February in the Church Hall.  Tickets £10 (including supper) are available from the Church Office Tuesday to Friday mornings on 9040 3589).

HELP IMPROVE LIFE FOR PEOPLE WITH PARKINSONS  –  give time, get inspired.  Volunteers are vital to our work and make a real difference to everyone living with Parkinson’s in the Belfast area.  Join us today and you will be part of a team with full training to carry out your role. You will also have a dedicated person to support you and receive out of pocket expenses.  For more information on the volunteer roles available and an application pack contact Paula Mc Larnon, Branch and Volunteer Support, 0844 225 3684 or email pmclarnon@parkinsons.org.uk

PRAXIS CARE  –  has received funding to offer a Befriending Service within the Belfast Trust area to individuals who face social isolation as a result of their mental ill health.  This service is delivered by trained volunteers who meet up with their Praxis Care friend approximately once a week to go for a coffee, out for a walk, to an event – anything that will help reduce the isolation felt by the individual. We are now recruiting volunteers to get involved with this vital work in our community, do you know anyone that would make an excellent Befriending volunteer?  More and more people around us feel isolated and lonely, this is one way to reduce that and make a difference in our local community.  For more information contact Catherine on 9072 7161 or catherinelittle@praxiscare.org.uk