29th November 2015

VOL. 24 NO. 01 29TH NOVEMBER 2015

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

Phone – 9065 4157. Website: www.st-colmcilles.net

E-mail: stcolmcilles@downandconnor.org

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

St Colmcille’s Pre School – www.stcolmcilles-preschool.co.uk.  Phone – 9047 2724

 

FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT – (Page 33, 490 & 452)

1ST Week of Advent

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

Entrance Antiphon To you, I life up my soul, O my God.  In you, I have trusted; let me not be put to shame.  Nor let my enemies exult over me; and let none who hope in you be put to shame.
1st Reading (Jeremiah 33:14-16)  I will make a virtuous Branch grow for David.
Psalm To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
2nd Reading (1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2) May the Lord confirm your hearts in holiness when Christ comes.
Acclamation Alleluia, alleluia!  Let us see, O Lord, your mercy and give us your saving help.  Alleluia!
Gospel (Luke 21:25-28, 34-36)  Your liberation is near at hand.
Children Jesus is reminding his friends to be ready; he is going to bring freedom to us all.  We must live good lives so we will be ready for him and won’t be surprised or worried when he returns.
Communion Antiphon The Lord will bestow his bounty, and our earth shall yield its increase.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

 

Saturday Sunday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
6.30pm

 

9.30am

Hugh & Patrick Close

9.30am

Sarah Armstrong

9.30am

 

9.30am

 

9.30am

Anointing of the Sick

Confession at 6.00pm 11.30am

Claire Regan

       

Would those who are last to leave the Parish grounds in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

 

PARISH OFFICE

The parish office will closed this Tuesday and Wednesday.

BAPTISM

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 15th December 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

CHURCH CAR PARK  –   part of the carpark will be fenced off this Wednesday and Thursday, due to essential maintenance work that need to be carried out in the Church

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

MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION – who take the Blessed Sacrament to the housebound, should sign their name on the list in the Sacristy on each occasion.

Lourdes 2016  –  we are currently seeking doctors (post foundation training) and nurses (on the NMC live register) to join the volunteer staff of the Diocesan Pilgrimage (11-16thJuly 2016). For more information please email us at lourdes@downandconnor.org

THE WEDNESDAY WORDis a national prayer mission which links parishes throughout the country through regular weekly prayer. The Wednesday Word contains the following Sunday’s scripture readings and reflections and is an excellent way of preparing to come to Mass. It is available each week at the back of the Church to take home. Please do consider starting to use this Christ centred, scripture based, method of praying, in spiritual solidarity with many parishioners throughout the country

MONEY MATTERS                 

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

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

DECEASED

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

Hugh Close,  Patrick Close,  Claire Regan,  Sarah Armstrong, 

Elizabeth Ferrie  and  Peter Ferrie.

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

 MINISTRY OF OUTREACH

MINISTERS OF OUTREACH  –  please collect your pack for delivery in the porch after all Mass this weekend.

CHRISTMAS OUTREACH  –  Ministers of Outreach will be starting to visit every home in the parish this coming week with a pack containing a Christmas Card from Father Ciaran detailing the times of Christmas Services; the 1st edition of St. Colmcille’s Causerie and an Individual Invitation Card to visit the Door Of Mercy during the Year of Mercy which commences on 8th December.

We currently need another 17 people to ensure every home in the parish is visited with this year’s Christmas material.  If you can help the parish by delivering in any of the following areas, please speak to Philomena in the porch after Mass: Mawhinney Park/Comber Road; Cairnburn area; Carolhill Park area; Belmont Road; Clonallon Park/Pembridge Court; Belmont Church Road; Sumerhill Avenue; Abbey Park;Barnetts Road area; Elsmere Height/Moyne Park; Kensington Gate/Kensington Gardens; Glenview Avenue/Castlehill Farm; Knock Road/Ascot Park;  Martinez Avenue; Orby Drive/Orby Green; Bloomfield Road area or Beersbridge Road area.

ADVENT

WALK WITH ME  –  A journey of Prayer for Advent and Christmas.  Copies are available at the back of the church.  Price £1.  Please put money in any of the Candelabra boxes.

ADVENT SERVICE  –  come celebrate the true meaning of Christmas on Sunday 13th December at 6.00pm in St. Colmcille’s Church.  Join the Choir and St. Joseph’s Primary School Choir in singing the joyful story of the coming of the Lord.  Refreshments served afterwards in the Hall.

TAP Christmas Gift Cards – Shop Early for Christmas! The Annual Tanzanian Africa Project (TAP) Christmas Gift Cards, in support of our twinned parish in Moita Bwawani Tanzania, will be available from this weekend and all the weekends of Advent. Attractive Christmas Gift Cards for School Uniforms (£10), Sponsor a Catechist (£10) and Mother and Baby Care (£20) will be available in the Porch after each of the Masses during the season of Advent. We look forward to your usual generous support for this fundraising event.

TROCAIRE GIFTS –  buy a Trocaire gift and make a lot more people happy. Booklets regarding this year’s Trocaire gifts are available at the back of the Church.  For more information log on to www.trocaire.org/gifts or call 080 0912 1200.

St Vincent de Paul

Christmas cards –  have all been sold but are still available from the local SVP shops at the Ormeau Road and Antrim Road if anyone still requires them.

Christmas Appeal 2015  – continues to Sunday 20th December.  Once again this year we are asking for donations of cash or shopping vouchers.  Cash is required to buy essentials such as vegetables, meat and other fresh food and is also practical as it may be used towards a top up card for the electric or gas meters or to buy heating oil stamps.  Your donations can be popped into our normal collection boxes with our members at the church exits any time up to Sunday 20th December.  SVP Envelopes marked as Gift Aid can be found at the Chapel porch. If you are a UK tax payer then using the Gift Aid envelope will enable us to claim the money back from government, increasing your donation.  As most of our families live near a Tesco store this would be the best supermarket voucher to donate. Heating oil stamps can be purchased from many oil suppliers or you can specify on the envelope if you wish us to spend your donation on fuel.  The annual appeal in 2014 was a great success and as a result we were able to help many families in the East Belfast area, of which our Church plays an important part. No matter how small (every £1 counts) all donations help to relieve the dreadful pressure our families suffer. Many have the simple choice of heat or eat.

THE LARDER  –  is a food bank in Mersey Street which has been most helpful in supporting many of the clients of our St. Vincent de Paul.  The St. Vincent de Paul propose collecting food to deliver to the Larders throughout Advent and would particularly appreciate any donations of food.  Boxes will be availabe in the porch for this collection, commencing at all Masses next weekend and concluding on the weekend of the 19th/20th December.

ANNUAL LOCAL COLLECTIONS  –  many volunteers from the Parish will be getting involved by standing at our local  Spar and Tesco stores in Ballyhackamore and Supervalu at King’s Square on nominated days as organised by Paddy Donnelly.  Those of you who have not already been approached to volunteer by Paddy, can still come forward if you wish.  We would like to thank those volunteers for donating their time at this very busy time of the year.

We will let you know after Christmas, how your donations have been used, but for now thank you so much for your invaluable kindness and support.

For further information on what SVP contributes to our society, check the web site at SVP.IE

THIS WEEK

APOSTOLIC WORK  –  the Christmas sale will be held this Sunday.  Tea, coffee and scones as usual. There will be a special Christmas stall in addition to the usual stalls.  Please put the date in your diary and come along to support our missionary effort. As the sale is not on Saturday night, there will be an opportunity for anyone who cannot go on Sunday to make a donation at the back of the church after Mass on Saturday evening.  Please give generously as funds are needed constantly.

BELMONT AND DISTRICT COUNCIL OF CHURCHES  –  will hold their Advent Service this Sunday in Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church at 7.00pm.  The loose offering will go to Christian Aid’s Refugee Crisis Appeal.  Everyone will be very welcome.

CHRISTMAS WITH CONCENTIO  – this Monday evening at 8.00pm in St. Colmcille’s Church.  Doors open at 7.30pm.  You are invited to join SOS NI and the Concentio Chamber Choir for an enchanting evening concert.  Admisson is free, although there will be a retiring collection on the night in support of SOS Bus services.  The highly acclaimed Concentio Chamber Choir are an award winning classically trained choir who have performed across Europe.

MARY –  A Biblical Walk Through the Bible will continue this Friday morning at 10.00am, starting with refreshments, in the Iona Room. In this DVD presentation you will experience an extraordinary pilgrimage through Mary’s life and see why she is an essential part of our faith. In the second part of the series this week, we will take a deeper look at the Annunciation.

Christmas Party  –  Calling all you who are just over 60 as it’s time to get ready for the Christmas party! It is next Sunday in the Parochial Hall at the slightly earlier start time of 4.00pm, dining at 4.30pm and finishing at 7.00pm. Bring your friends and enjoy this lovely event, delicious food and of course Santa will be there! We are delighted to say that Alan will be back by popular demand to provide the music and entertainment. It is important for the catering that we get numbers so please let us know as soon as possible how many

places you wish to book. Also if anyone needs transport to attend let us know as this can be easily arranged. The social and fundraising committee will be in the porch after all Masses this weekend for your queries or to take your booking, or you may call Roisin McMullan 078 5414 0019, Mary Walsh 078 1549 3463 or Lucy Traynor on 079 0080 7589. It really is a great event, help us make it even better.

 

COMING EVENTS

Ballyhackamore Business Association  –  has always taken Christmas seriously, and this year is no exception.  Engaging the irrepressible talents of Young at Art, Northern Ireland’s leading arts organisation for children and young people, this year Christmas is turning into a hunt for Santa. That’s right Santa has been kidnapped!  The ‘Nearly True’ Christmas Tour is an exciting walking tour around the village of Ballyhackamore, where no stone will be left unturned in the search for Santa.  The hour-long tour with the elves will be running every Saturday to 19th December and further tours will be held on Monday 21st, Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd  December to ensure that Santa is found before December 25th ! There are three tours each day beginning at 11.00am, 1.00pm and 3.00pm. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and are available to buy from Greens Pizza in Ballyhackamore.  Tickets are priced at £12 per child and £8 per adult and this will include a gift and a photo with Santa.

ST COLMCILLE’S PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP  –  are holding Open Days on Tuesday 8th and Wednesday 9th December between 3.30pm and 4.30pm for parents to view the premises, meet the staff.   Application forms to apply for a pre-school place are available at www.eani.org.uk/admissions for those who wish to apply online.  Paper copies of the application form will be available to collect from the Pre-school at our open days and until the closing date.  The deadline for submission of forms is noon on Wednesday 13th January 2016.  All children in their pre-school year are entitled to apply for a place in St Colmcille’s Pre-school.  We offer free places to 96 children and have a long-standing tradition of providing pre-school education in the area. The places are allocated according to criteria drawn up by the Management Committee of the pre-school.  We aim to provide a stimulating, happy and friendly environment where children, staff and parents can learn from and support each other.

Reunion Dinner  –  to mark the 50th anniversary since the re start of the Scouts in the parish, a 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner Dance has been arranged for the 6th February 2016 in the Stormont Hotel. All ex members of the Group, leaders and committee people are invited to attend, as are all parents and supporters. The Scout Group has been an integral part of the youth provision in St. Colmcilles Parish during good and bad times and it’s fitting that we celebrate the continued success of the Group. Please let family members no longer living in the parish know of this event. A dedicated Facebook page will be developed and further details about the reunion will be given as they become available.

LIVING YOUTH – Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia Team 2016: Following our successful Habitat for Humanity projects over the past three years Living Youth is excited to announce recruitment for another youth team due to travel to Ethiopia next summer. Provisional dates: 8th to 22nd August 2016.  Applicants should be 18 years or over and all team members will be expected to contribute to the cost of the trip as well as engage in an extensive fundraising campaign. The budget for this trip is £2,000 p/p. This includes a non-refundable deposit, travel, in-country expenses and a £600 minimum donation to Habitat’s work. To register or get more information visit: www.habitatni.co.uk, call 9263 5635 or email gv@habitatni.co.uk

OTHER NOTICES

Christmas at Tobar Mhuire  –  Santa is coming again to the annual Craft Fair in Tobar Mhuire this Sunday from 1.00pm to 5.00pm. There’s something for everyone – face painting , shopping, tombola and delicious refreshments. All welcome!  Our popular annual Christmas Candlelight Dinner is on Friday 4th December, with music and song by award winning singing sensation Matthew Campbell.  To book please call 4483 0242 or email secretary@tobarmhuirecrossgar.com

Trócaire with Christian Aid  –  invite you to an Ecumenical Service in St. Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast this Sunday at 1.15pm, followed at 2.00pm with a People’s climate rally in Writer’s Square, Belfast.  Together we gather on the eve of the world leaders climate change talks in Paris. People from all walks of life will come together to show their support for climate action and a future free from poverty. We hope you can join us.

The Falls Road Library – is celebrating local female authors this December and have invited three to hold Author Talks on the first three Tuesday evenings of the month.  The talks will be held at 6.30pm, and finish around 8.00pm.

the official launch of Jim Deeds’ book – ‘Surfing Life’s Waves’ on next Sunday, in St Teresa’s Parish Hall, Glen Road, following 12.00 noon Mass.  There will be refreshments served and there’ll be music too.

KNOCK ALL NIGHT VIGIL  – buses will depart from King Street and Kennedy Way on Monday 7th December at 3.00pm returning to Belfast on Tuesday 8th December at 12.00 noon.  Price £40, this includes dinner and breakfast.  To book please call the Pilgrim Shop, on 9031 1652.  £10 deposit required.  Vigil starts at 11.00pm and consists of the Rosary, Stations of the Cross, Benedicition and finishes with Mass at 4.00am

Advent Day of Reflection  –  at Tobar Mhuire Retreat Centre, Crossgar on Saturday 12th December from 10.00am to 5.00pm.  The theme will be ‘Looking At The Biblical Themes Of Mercy Through The Lens Of Luke’s Gospel’.  Pope Francis has declared this coming year as the Year of Mercy. Sean Goan links this Year of Mercy to the Year of Luke in the lectionary, in his own reflective and scholarly way. A wonderful preparation for Christmas and for celebrating the Year of Mercy.  For more information contact Tobar Mhuire on 4483 0242 or email secretary@tobarmhuirecrossgar.com

CANDLE-LIGHT ROSARY FOR LIFE – Please join Precious Life in a beautiful candlelight service for the protection of Ireland’s unborn babies, outside Marie Stopes Belfast at 4.00pm on Saturday 12th December, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadeloupe. For more information contact 9027 8484 or info@preciouslife.com

2016 CENTENARY OF THE ANGEL OF FATIMA.  –  Pilgrimage to Fatima & Santiago de Compostela,   from 9th to 18th August 2016.  3 Nights H/B Los Abetos Hotel Santiago, 6 Nights F/B Hotel Avenida Fatima.  Visiting Pontevedra, Tuy & Balasar.  Spiritual Directors are Fr Gerry McCloskey & Fr Sean Gilmore.  Special Group Price £709 inclusive of tax & insurance. Full Religious Programme. For further details contact Joe Catney on 9071 4001 or 077 7642 5631. Early booking is advisable. Deposit secures.

 

 

22nd November 2015

VOL. 23 NO. 52 22ND NOVEMBER 2015

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

Phone – 9065 4157. Website: www.st-colmcilles.net

E-mail: stcolmcilles@downandconnor.org

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

St Colmcille’s Pre School – www.stcolmcilles-preschool.co.uk.  Phone – 9047 2724

 

OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, KING OF THE UNIVERSE – (Page 827, 499 & 452)

34th Week in Ordinary Time 

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

Entrance Antiphon How worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and divinity, and wisdom and strength and honour.  To him belong glory and power for ever and ever.
1st Reading (Daniel 7:13-14)  His sovereignty is an eternal sovereignty.
Psalm The Lord is king, with majesty enrobed.
2nd Reading (Apocalypse 1:5-8) Ruler of the kings of the earth … he made us a line of kings, priests to serve his God.
Acclamation Alleluia, alleluia!  Blessings on him who comes in the name of the Lord!  Blessings on the coming kingdom of our father David!  Alleluia!
Gospel (John 18:33-37)  It is you who say that I am a king.
Children Jesus was taken by his enemies to the Roman leader, Pilate.  They told Pilate that Jesus had said he was the king of the Jews.  Pilate asked Jesus what this meant.  Jesus explained to Pilate that his kingdom was not a kingdom like the ones on earth.  Jesus said he had come to tell people the truth about God and that everyone on the side of God’s truth would listen to him.
Communion Antiphon The Lord sits as King for ever.  The Lord will bless his people with peace.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

 

Saturday Sunday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
6.30pm

Therese Carville

9.30am

 

9.30am

 

9.30am

 

9.30am

Peter Kelly

 

9.30am

Anointing of the Sick

Confession at 6.00pm 11.30am

William McCaffrey

       

Would those who are last to leave the Parish grounds in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

MONTH OF NOVEMBER

NOVEMBER IS THE MONTH OF DEVOTION TO THE HOLY SOULS  –  during the month of November Mass will be celebrated each day for the repose of the souls of those deceased whose names have been included in the November Dead Lists.

ANNUAL MASS FOR DECEASED TEACHERS   –  will be celebrated this Monday evening in the Good Shepherd Church at 7.30pm.  refreshments afterwards in the adjacent Good Shepherd Centre.

Tidy Graves  –  are offering a great clean up service on a loved one’s grave and all from only £30 for a basic clean for the month of November.  Contact Andrew on 9029 2140  or mobile  077 1828 2816

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

MINISTRY OF OUTREACH  –  packs will be ready for Ministers of Outreach to collect after all Masses next weekend.

PERMANENT DIACONATE  –  the Diocese initiated training for the Permanent Diaconate two years ago and twelve men have completed their Preparatory Year and are in their second year of formation.  Preparations are under way to begin another Preparatory Year in 2016.  Men, between 35 and 60 years of age who would like to consider the Permanent Diaconate should contact Father Alan McGuckian at the Living Church Office for more information and an application form. Phone 9096 0920, or email livingchurch@downandconnor.org.  Completed applications should be returned to the Living Church on or before the 30th November 2016.

THE WEDNESDAY WORDis a national prayer mission which links parishes throughout the country through regular weekly prayer. The Wednesday Word contains the following Sunday’s scripture readings and reflections and is an excellent way of preparing to come to Mass. It is available each week at the back of the Church to take home. Please do consider starting to use this Christ centred, scripture based, method of praying, in spiritual solidarity with many parishioners throughout the country

Eucharistic Prayer Vigil –  for Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life will take place in St. Comgall’s Church, Bangor this Thursday evening from 7.00pm to 10.00pm.  The Vigil will conclude with Mass at 9.00pm.

MONEY MATTERS                 

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

DECEASED

We pray for the repose of the soul of William McCaffrey, a relative of a parishioner, who died this week.  We also remember Therese Carville, whose month’s mind occurs this weekend and all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

John Logue,  Elizabeth Logue,  Peter Kelly,   John Allen  and  Jim McCrarren

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

ADVENT

DAILY MEDITATION FOR ADVENT  – copies of “Bible Alive” are available at the back of the church.  Please put money in any of the Candelabra boxes.

WALK WITH ME  –  A journey of Prayer for Advent and Christmas.  Copies are available at the back of the church.  Price £1.  Please put money in any of the Candelabra boxes.

ADVENT SERVICE  –  come celebrate the true meaning of Christmas on Sunday 13th December at 6.00pm in St. Colmcille’s Church.  Join the Choir and St. Joseph’s Primary School Choir in singing the joyful story of the coming of the Lord.  Refreshments served afterwards in the Hall.

TROCAIRE GIFTS –  buy a Trocaire gift and make a lot more people happy. Booklets regarding this year’s Trocaire gifts are available at the back of the Church.  For more information log on to www.trocaire.org/gifts or call 080 0912 1200.

St Vincent de Paul

CHRISTMAS CARDS  –  will be on sale at a price of £3.00 per packet – there are 10 different designs – for those who still like to keep contact with friends and family in the traditional way. They will be on sale in the Chapel porch.

Christmas Appeal 2015  – continues to Sunday 20th December.  Once again this year we are asking for donations of cash or shopping vouchers.  Cash is required to buy essentials such as vegetables, meat and other fresh food and is also practical as it may be used towards a top up card for the electric or gas meters or to buy heating oil stamps.  Your donations can be popped into our normal collection boxes with our members at the church exits any time up to Sunday 20th December.  SVP Envelopes marked as Gift Aid can be found at the Chapel porch. If you are a UK tax payer then using the Gift Aid envelope will enable us to claim the money back from government, increasing you donation.  As most of our families live near a Tesco store this would be the best supermarket voucher to donate. Heating oil stamps can be purchased from many oil suppliers or you can specify on the envelope if you wish us to spend your donation on fuel.  The annual appeal in 2014 was a great success and as a result we were able to help many families in the East Belfast area, of which our Church plays an important part. No matter how small (every £1 counts) all donations help to relieve the dreadful pressure our families suffer. Many have the simple choice of heat or eat.

THE LARDER  –  is a food bank in Mersey Street which has been most helpful in supporting many of the clients of our St. Vincent de Paul.  The St. Vincent de Paul propose collecting food to deliver to the Larders throughout Advent and would particularly appreciate any donations of food.  Boxes will be availabe in the porch for this collection, commencing at all Masses next weekend and concluding on the weekend of the 19th/20th December.

ANNUAL LOCAL COLLECTIONS  –  many volunteers from the Parish will be getting involved by standing at our local  Spar and Tesco stores in Ballyhackamore and Supervalu at King’s Square on nominated days as organised by Paddy Donnelly.  Those of you who have not already been approached to volunteer by Paddy, can still come forward if you wish.  We would like to thank those volunteers for donating their time at this very busy time of the year.

We will let you know after Christmas, how your donations have been used, but for now thank you so much for your invaluable kindness and support.

For further information on what SVP contributes to our society, check the web site at SVP.IE

THIS WEEK

11th Belfast Scout Group  –  the Annual General Meeting of the parish Scout Group will be held in the Scout Hall this Tuesday evening beginning at 8.30pm sharp. All parents, friends and supporters of the Group are invited to attend.

ST JOSEPHS’ PRIMARY SCHOOL  –  open morning this Wednesday at 10.00am, for all prospective parents who wish to enrol their child in the school for September next year. There will be a Principal’s address followed by a tour of the school.  .

SOS – we are currently seeking volunteers, who would be able to assist housebound parishioners with shopping/errands, on a short term ad hoc basis.  A meeting, where you can find out a bit more and register as a volunteer, will be held  this Thursday evening at 7.30pm in the Iona Room.

MARY –  A Biblical Walk Through the Bible, will be presented on Friday mornings in Advent, starting this Friday, at 10.00am with refreshments in the Iona Room. You will experience an extraordinary pilgrimage through Mary’s life and see why she is an essential part of our faith.

Advent Family Weekend in Corrymeela  –  from this Friday to next Sunday.  Why not join our neighbours from Gilnahirk and fellow parishioners in the beautiful, peaceful surroundings of Corrymeela for a weekend of conversation, craic and relaxing walks on the beach or the forest, liberally interspersed with tea, coffee and home-made scones or biscuits?  For more information please contact John Barry 078 4072 8477, email jb654395@yahoo.co.uk or Paula Sheils 075 9033 1477, email paula.sheils@hotmail.co.uk or Mary Walsh  on 9029 5795.

APOSTOLIC WORK  –  the Christmas sale will held next Sunday.  Tea, coffee and scones as usual. There will be a special Christmas stall in addition to the usual stalls.  Please put the date in your diary and come along to support our missionary effort. As the sale is not on Saturday night, there will be an opportunity for anyone who cannot go on Sunday to make a donation at the back of the church after Mass on Saturday evening.  Please give generously as funds are needed constantly.

BELMONT AND DISTRICT COUNCIL OF CHURCHES  –  will hold their Advent Service next Sunday in Gilnahirk Presbyterian Church at 7.00pm.  The loose offering will go to Christian Aid’s Refugee Crisis Appeal.  Everyone will be very welcome.

 

COMING EVENTS

Ballyhackamore Business Association  –  has always taken Christmas seriously, and this year is no exception.  Engaging the irrepressible talents of Young at Art, Northern Ireland’s leading arts organisation for children and young people, this year Christmas is turning into a hunt for Santa. That’s right Santa has been kidnapped!  The ‘Nearly True’ Christmas Tour is an exciting walking tour around the village of Ballyhackamore, where no stone will be left unturned in the search for Santa.  The hour-long tour with the elves will be running every Saturday from 28th November to 19th December and further tours will be held on Monday 21st, Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd  December to ensure that Santa is found before December 25th ! There are three tours each day beginning at 11.00am, 1.00pm and 3.00pm. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and are available to buy from Greens Pizza in Ballyhackamore.  Tickets are priced at £12 per child and £8 per adult and this will include a gift and a photo with Santa.

CHRISTMAS WITH CONCENTIO  – on Monday 30th November at 8.00pm in St. Colmcille’s Church.  Doors open at 7.30pm.  You are invited to join SOS NI and the Conentio Chamber Choir for an enchanting evening concert.  Admisson is free, although there will be a retiring collection on the night in support of SOS Bus services.  The highly acclaimed Concentio Chamber Choir are an award winning classically trained choir who have performed across Europe.

Christmas Party  –  Calling all you who are just over 60 as it’s time to get ready for the Christmas party! It is on Sunday 6th December in the Parochial Hall at the slightly earlier start time of 4.00pm, dining at 4.30pm and finishing at 7.00pm. Bring your friends and enjoy this lovely event, delicious food and of course Santa will be there! We are delighted to say that Alan will be back by popular demand to provide the music and entertainment. It is important for the catering that we get numbers so please let us know as soon as possible how many places you wish to book. Also if anyone needs transport to attend let us know as this can be easily arranged. The social and fundraising committee will be in the porch after all Masses this weekend for your queries or to take your booking, or you may call Roisin McMullan 078 5414 0019, Mary Walsh 078 1549 3463 or Lucy Traynor on 079 0080 7589. It really is a great event, help us make it even better.

Reunion Dinner  –  to mark the 50th anniversary since the re start of the Scouts in the parish, a 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner Dance has been arranged for the 6th February 2016 in the Stormont Hotel. All ex members of the Group, leaders and committee people are invited to attend, as are all parents and supporters. The Scout Group has been an integral part of the youth provision in St. Colmcilles Parish during good and bad times and it’s fitting that we celebrate the continued success of the Group. Please let family members no longer living in the parish know of this event. A dedicated Facebook page will be developed and further details about the reunion will be given as they become available.

LIVING YOUTH – Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia Team 2016: Following our successful Habitat for Humanity projects over the past three years Living Youth is excited to announce recruitment for another youth team due to travel to Ethiopia next summer. Provisional dates: 8th to 22nd August 2016.  Applicants should be 18 years or over and all team members will be expected to contribute to the cost of the trip as well as engage in an extensive fundraising campaign. The budget for this trip is £2,000 p/p. This includes a non-refundable deposit, travel, in-country expenses and a £600 minimum donation to Habitat’s work. To register or get more information visit: www.habitatni.co.uk, call 9263 5635 or email gv@habitatni.co.uk

OTHER NOTICES

To mark the 1400th anniversary of the death of St. Columbanus – there will be a Concelebrated Mass in St. Comgall’s church, Bangor at 7.30pm this Monday evening. The chief celebrant will be Bishop Anthony Farquhar and Bishop Denis Nulty of Kildare and Leighlin will be the preacher. This concludes the Year of St. Columbanus in Bangor, Luxeuil and Bobbio. All will be most welcome.

JESUS HEALS  –  Koinonia John the Baptist invites you to a meeting of healing through praise, prayer and the Word of God. Venue: St Paul’s Pastoral Centre, Falls Road, (beside St Paul’s Church) this Wednesday from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. Come and enjoy a new experience of faith and return home refreshed.

SOS BUS SLEEP OUT  –  this Friday from 7.00pm to 7.00am in Writer’s Square, Belfast.  Registration £20 + suggested sponsorship £100.  Please help SOS raise funds for their services and awareness of homelessness and vulnerable people on the streets of Northern Ireland.  To register phone 9066 4505 or email alison.steers@sosbusni.com

LEPROSY MISSON CHRISTMAS FAIR AND COFFEE MORNING  – next Saturday in Knock Presbyterian Church, from 10.00am to 12.30pm.  Come and buy your Christmas cards and gifts and support the work of the Leprosy Mission.

Christmas at Tobar Mhuire  –  Santa is coming again to the annual Craft Fair in Tobar Mhuire next Saturday and Sunday from 1.00pm to 5.00pm. There’s something for everyone – face painting , shopping, tombola and delicious refreshments. All welcome!  Our popular annual Christmas Candlelight Dinner is on Friday 4th December, with music and song by award winning singing sensation Matthew Campbell.  To book please call 4483 0242 or email secretary@tobarmhuirecrossgar.com

Trócaire with Christian Aid  –  invite you to an Ecumenical Service in St. Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast next Sunday at 1.15pm, followed at 2.00pm with a People’s climate rally in Writer’s Square, Belfast.  Together we gather on the eve of the world leaders climate change talks in Paris. People from all walks of life will come together to show their support for climate action and a future free from poverty. We hope you can join us.

KNOCK ALL NIGHT VIGIL  – buses will depart from King Street and Kennedy Way on Monday 7th December at 3.00pm returning to Belfast on Tuesday 8th December at 12.00 noon.  Price £40, this includes dinner and breakfast.  To book please call the Pilgrim Shop, on 9031 1652.  £10 deposit required.  Vigil starts at 11.00pm and consists of the Rosary, Stations of the Cross, Benedicition and finishes with Mass at 4.00am

Advent Day of Reflection  –  at Tobar Mhuire Retreat Centre, Crossgar on Saturday 12th December from 10.00am to 5.00pm.  The theme will be ‘Looking At The Biblical Themes Of Mercy Through The Lens Of Luke’s Gospel’.  Pope Francis has declared this coming year as the Year of Mercy. Sean Goan links this Year of Mercy to the Year of Luke in the lectionary, in his own reflective and scholarly way. A wonderful preparation for Christmas and for celebrating the Year of Mercy.  For more information contact Tobar Mhuire on 4483 0242 or email secretary@tobarmhuirecrossgar.com

15th November

VOL. 23 NO. 51 15TH NOVEMBER 2015

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

Phone – 9065 4157. Website: www.st-colmcilles.net

E-mail: stcolmcilles@downandconnor.org

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

St Colmcille’s Pre School – www.stcolmcilles-preschool.co.uk.  Phone – 9047 2724

 

THIRTY THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – (Page 823, 499 & 452)

33rd Week in Ordinary Time 

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

Entrance Antiphon The Lord said: I think thoughts of peace and not of affliction.  You will call upon me, and I will answer you, and I will lead back your captives from every place.
1st Reading (Daniel 12:1-3)  When that time comes, your own people will be spared.
Psalm Preserve me, God, I take refuge in you.
2nd Reading (Hebrews 10:11-14, 18) By virtue of one single offering, he has achieved the eternal perfection of all whom he is sanctifying.
Acclamation Alleluia, alleluia!  Stay awake and stand ready, because you do not know the hour when the Son of Man is coming.  Alleluia!
Gospel (Mark 13:24-32)  He will gather his chosen from the four winds.
Children Jesus was telling his friends that he will come back to gather all his people together.  There will be signs to let the disciples know he is coming.  Only God the Father knows when that time will be.
Communion Antiphon To be near God is my happiness, to place my hope in God the Lord.

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

 

Saturday Sunday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
6.30pm

 

9.30am

Michael Fay & Michael Dawson

9.30am

Paddy Dawson

9.30am

 

9.30am

 

9.30am

Bill Doherty

Anointing of the Sick

Confession at 6.00pm 11.30am

Sean McDermott, Mary McCaffrey & Christopher Robinson

7.00pm

Annual Mass for Deceased

     

Would those who are last to leave the Parish grounds in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

MONTH OF NOVEMBER

NOVEMBER IS THE MONTH OF DEVOTION TO THE HOLY SOULS  –  during the month of November Mass will be celebrated each day for the repose of the souls of those deceased whose names have been included in the November Dead Lists. Lists are available at the rear of the Church.  If you wish to donate an offering for the Masses, please include it with the List in the envelope provided.  Completed Lists can be placed in the collection baskets or in the box on the Sanctuary area of the Church.

ANNUAL MASS FOR DECEASED MEMBERS OF OUR PARISH FAMILY  – will be celebrated this Tuesday at 7.00pm.  This is an opportunity for our parish family to pray for our own deceased relatives and friends as well as the deceased members of our parish who have prayed with us and celebrated the liturgy with us throughout the years.

November Pledge  –  please consider taking the November Pledge to be alcohol-free and offer this up for the benefit of the Holy Souls and to help an addicted friend.  For further information, please contact Ian at the Diocesan Pioneer Office, 68 Berry Street, Belfast or  phone 9089 4070.

Tidy Graves  –  are offering a great clean up service on a loved one’s grave and all from only £30 for a basic clean for the month of November.  Contact Andrew on 9029 2140  or mobile  077 1828 2816

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 24th November 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

WALK WITH ME  –  A journey of Prayer for Advent and Christmas.  Copies are available at the back of the church.  Price £1.  Please put money in any of the Candelabra boxes.

PERMANENT DIACONATE  –  the Diocese initiated training for the Permanent Diaconate two years ago and twelve men have completed their Preparatory Year and are in their second year of formation.  Preparations are under way to begin another Preparatory Year in 2016.  Men, between 35 and 60 years of age who would like to consider the Permanent Diaconate should contact Father Alan McGuckian at the Living Church Office for more information and an application form. Phone 9096 0920, or email livingchurch@downandconnor.org.  Completed applications should be returned to the Living Church on or before the 30th November 2016.

THE WEDNESDAY WORDis a national prayer mission which links parishes throughout the country through regular weekly prayer. The Wednesday Word contains the following Sunday’s scripture readings and reflections and is an excellent way of preparing to come to Mass. It is available each week at the back of the Church to take home. Please do consider starting to use this Christ centred, scripture based, method of praying, in spiritual solidarity with many parishioners throughout the country

Eucharistic Prayer Vigil –  for Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life will take place in St. Comgall’s Church, Bangor on Thursday 26th November from 7.00pm to 10.00pm.  The Vigil will conclude with Mass at 9.00pm.

MONEY MATTERS                 

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

BISHOPS’ COMMISSION COLLECTION  –  will be taken up at all Masses this weekend.  This collection helps defray the contributions from the Diocese for the work of the various National Episcopal Commissions.  To help it fulfil its aims more effectively, the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference has established various commissions, agencies, councils and other bodies which focus on specific tasks and areas of responsibility within the mission of the Church.  These are grouped into five departments as follows: Department of Catholic Education and Formation; Department of Pastoral Care; Department of Planning, Communications and Resources; Department of Social Issues and International Affairs and Department of Worship, Pastoral Renewal and Faith Development.  The Diocese is obligated to pay the amount levied by the Bishops’ Conference each year and this annual collection helps cover part of the annual levy.

DECEASED

We pray for the repose of James McConnell, a parishioner, who died last weekend, and for Bill Doherty.  We also remember Mary McCaffrey, whose month’s mind occurs this weekend and pray for all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially:

Michael Fay,  Michael Dawson, Sean McDermott,  Christopher Robinson,  Jean Nelson,  James Nelson,  Dan Conway,  Martin Nugent,  Alfred Fusco.

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

St Vincent de Paul

CHRISTMAS CARDS  –  will be on sale at a price of £3.00 per packet – there are 10 different designs for those who still like to keep contact with friends and family in the traditional way. They will be on sale in the Chapel porch.

Christmas Appeal 2015  – will be launched on this Monday and we at St Colmcille’s will be collecting donations up to Sunday 20th December.  Once again this year we are asking for donations of cash or shopping vouchers.  Cash is required to buy essentials such as vegetables, meat and other fresh food and is also practical as it may be used towards a top up card for the electric or gas meters or to buy heating oil stamps.  Your donations can be popped into our normal collection boxes with our members at the church exits any time up to Sunday 20th December.  SVP Envelopes marked as Gift Aid can be found at the Chapel porch. If you are a UK tax payer then using the Gift Aid envelope will enable us to claim the money back from government, increasing you donation.  As most of our families live near a Tesco store this would be the best supermarket voucher to donate. Heating oil stamps can be purchased from many oil suppliers or you can specify on the envelope if you wish us to spend your donation on fuel.  The annual appeal in 2014 was a great success and as a result we were able to help many families in the East Belfast area, of which our Church plays an important part. No matter how small (every £1 counts) all donations help to relieve the dreadful pressure our families suffer. Many have the simple choice of heat or eat.

THE LARDER  –  is a food bank in Mersey Street which has been most helpful in supporting many of the clients of our St. Vincent de Paul.  The St. Vincent de Paul propose collecting food to deliver to the Larders throughout Advent and would particularly appreciate any donations of food.  Boxes will be availabe in the porch for this collection, commencing at all Masses over the weekend of 28th/29th November, concluding on the weekend of the 19th/20th December.

ANNUAL LOCAL COLLECTIONS  –  many volunteers from the Parish will be getting involved by standing at our local  Spar and Tesco stores in Ballyhackamore and Supervalu at King’s Square on nominated days as organised by Paddy Donnelly.  Those of you who have not already been approached to volunteer by Paddy can still come forward if you wish.  We would like to thank those volunteers for donating their time at this very busy time of the year.

We will let you know after Christmas, how your donations have been used, but for now thank you so much for your invaluable kindness and support.

For further information on what SVP contributes to our society, check the web site at SVP.IE

THIS WEEK

Clothes Donation  –  it’s approaching another New Year.  Are you doing a clear out –  if so, the Guide Unit are interested in your old clothes.  This weekend you can leave any unwanted/old clothes after all Masses to the Den. We will be recycling them via the recycling clothes points.  Any funds made from this will go towards our summer camp to France 2016.  Thank you in anticipation!

LIVING YOUTH – Come and join us for our second Monthly Diocesan Youth Mass on this Sunday at 5.00 pm (Confessions and Music Practice from 4.30pm) in Holy Family Church, Newington Avenue.  Refreshments after in the Church Gathering Space.  All welcome.  The December Monthly Diocesan Youth Gathering will take place on Sunday 20th December also in Holy Family Church.  More information to follow.

ANNUAL MASS FOR DECEASED MEMBERS OF OUR PARISH FAMILY  – will be celebrated this Tuesday at 7.00pm.

Scripture and Prayer Group –  will resume meetings this month.  Our next meeting will be this Tuesday 17th November at 8.00pm in the Committee Room. We will look at the readings for the Feast of Christ the King and remember Joan in a short prayer reflection.

artisan market  –  will be held in the Church Grounds next Saturday from 10.00am to 4.00pm.  The market hours have been extended till 4.00pm for this month and December.  There will also be more stalls available.

JEFF CAVINS  –  at the Waterfront Hall Belfast: 10.00am to 5.00pm next Saturday. Bring your own lunch. It will be a very rich day which will give good material to people who have already made a beginning with Bible study and yet it will not be intimidating for beginners. Jeff will cover four specific themes: Abraham our Father in Faith: David, Warrior and Worshipper, Jesus the Rabbi who calls us, and The Church: God’s family in the world. For those who feel they are beginners in relation to the Bible the day will be an attractive

exposure to some of the great themes of our Catholic faith. With a full programme including prayer and music it will be a day not to be missed. People will leave the Waterfront with an appetite for further exploration and pointers for how that can be facilitated in their own community.  Noeleen has a small number of tickets for sale.  Please contact her on 078 7949 8131 or book directly through the Waterfront box office  www.waterfront.co.uk / phone 9033 4455.

COMING EVENTS

SOS – we are currently seeking volunteers, who would be able to assist housebound parishioners with shopping/errands, on a short term ad hoc basis.  A meeting, where you can find out a bit more and register as a volunteer, will be held  on Thursday 26th November at 7.30pm in the Iona Room.

Advent Family Weekend in Corrymeela  –  from Friday 27th to Sunday 29th November.  Why not join our neighbours from Gilnahirk and fellow parishioners in the beautiful, peaceful surroundings of Corrymeela for a weekend of conversation, craic and relaxing walks on the beach or the forest, liberally interspersed with tea, coffee and home-made scones or biscuits?  For more information please contact John Barry 078 4072 8477, email jb654395@yahoo.co.uk or Paula Sheils 075 9033 1477, email paula.sheils@hotmail.co.uk or Mary Walsh  on 9029 5795.

Apostolic Work   –  will hold their Christmas sale on Sunday 29th November. Please put the date in your diary and come along to support our missionary effort.

CHRISTMAS WITH CONCENTIO  – on Monday 30th November at 8.00pm in St. Colmcille’s Church.  Doors open at 7.30pm.  You are invited to join SOS NI and the Conentio Chamber Choir for an enchanting evening concert.  Admisson is free, although there will be a retiring collection on the night in support of SOS Bus services.  The highly acclaimed Concentio Chamber Choir are an award winning classically trained choir who have performed across Europe.

Christmas Party  –  the over 60’s Christmas party will be held on Sunday 6th December in the Parochial Hall. Get together with your friends and come and enjoy the fun and great food on this super day. More details to follow next week but any queries in the meantime call Roisin McMullan on 078 5414 0019, Lucy Traynor on 079 0080 7589 or Mary Walsh on 078 1549 3463.

ADVENT SERVICE  –  come celebrate the true meaning of Christmas on Sunday 13th December at 6.00pm in St. Colmcille’s Church.  Join the Choir and St. Joseph’s Primary School Choir in singing the joyful story of the coming of the Lord.  Refreshments served in afterwards in the Hall.

Reunion Dinner  –  to mark the 50th anniversary since the re start of the Scouts in the parish, a 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner Dance has been arranged for the 6th February 2016 in the Stormont Hotel. All ex members of the Group, leaders and committee people are invited to attend, as are all parents and supporters. The Scout Group has been an integral part of the youth provision in St. Colmcilles Parish during good and bad times and it’s fitting that we celebrate the continued success of the Group. Please let family members no longer living in the parish know of this event. A dedicated Facebook page will be developed and further details about the reunion will be given as they become available.

LIVING YOUTH – Habitat for Humanity Ethiopia Team 2016: Following our successful Habitat for Humanity projects over the past three years Living Youth is excited to announce recruitment for another youth team due to travel to Ethiopia next summer. Provisional dates: 8th to 22nd  August 2016.  Applicants should be 18 years or over and all team members will be expected to contribute to the cost of the trip as well as engage in an extensive fundraising campaign. The budget for this trip is £2,000 p/p. This includes a non-refundable deposit, travel, in-country expenses and a £600 minimum donation to Habitat’s work. To register or get more information visit: www.habitatni.co.uk, call 9263 5635 or email gv@habitatni.co.uk

OTHER NOTICES

PRISON WEEK –  runs from this Sunday to next Saturday.  An Ecumenical Service for ‘Prison Week’ will be celebrated in St George’s Church, High Street, Belfast on this Wednesday at 7.30pm.  Prison Week is a week of prayer for all those involved in prison life. An invitation is extended to all those involved with prison life, those working with victims of crime and all those family members who have been affected by family members in prison.

Fortwilliam Musical Society  –  will be in Ballyearl Courtyard theatre from this Tuesday to next Saturday. Come along to a fantastic week of concerts with music from the musicals, some old time favourites and other tunes to get your toes tapping! Book early to avoid disappointment tickets available at www.thecourtyardtheatre.com or by phone 9034 0202. Fortwilliam are also available to hire for concerts or fundraisers.

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 this Wednesday from 7.00pm to 9.00pm in the Wellington Park Hotel to find out more information.

INTERFAITH ENCOUNTER – Belfast born Redemptorist theologian Fr Brendan McConvery will reflect on ‘Nostra Aetate’ – the Vatican Council’s Declaration on the Relation of the Church to Non-Christian Religions, issued 50 years ago in October 1965. Responses from Rabbi David Singer (Belfast Synagogue) and Sheik Anwar Mady (Belfast Islamic Centre).  All welcome this Wednesday at 7.30pm in Clonard Monastery.

JESUS HEALS  –  Koinonia John the Baptist invites you to a meeting of healing through praise, prayer and the Word of God. Venue: St Paul’s Pastoral Centre, Falls Road, (beside St Paul’Church).  Date: Wednesday 25th November from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. Come and enjoy a new experience of faith and return home refreshed.

SOS BUS SLEEP OUT  –  on Friday 27th November from 7.00pm to 7.00am in Writer’s Square, Belfast.  Registration £20 + suggested sponsorship £100.  Please help SOS raise funds for their services and awareness of homelessness and vulnerable people on the streets of Northern Ireland.  To register phone 9066 4505 or email alison.steers@sosbusni.com

LEPROSY MISSON CHRISTMAS FAIR AND COFFEE MORNING  – on Saturday 28th November in Knock Presbyterian Church, from 10.00am to 12.30pm.  Come and buy your Christmas cards and gifts and support the work of the Leprosy Mission.