15th February 2015

VOL. 23 NO. 12  15TH 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

 

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – (Page 713, 452 & 499)

6th Week in Ordinary Time

Readings : Sunday Cycle B, Weekday Cycle 1, Psalter Week 2/4

Entrance

Antiphon

 Be my protector, O God, a mighty stronghold to save me.  For you are my rock, my stronghold!  Lead me, guide me, for the sake of your name.
1st Reading (Leviticus 13:1-2, 44-46)  The leper must live apart, he must live outside the camp.
Psalm You are my refuge, O Lord; you fill me with the joy of salvation.
2nd Reading (1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1)  Take me for your model, as I take Christ.
Acclamation Alleluia, alleluia!  May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our mind, so that we can see what hope his call holds for us.  Alleluia!
Gospel (Mark 1:40-45)   The leprosy left him at once and he was cured.
Children A man with a skin disease asked Jesus to make him well.  Jesus felt sorry for the leper and healed him.  Jesus asked the man not to tell anyone, but to go to the priest and show that he was cured.  The man told everybody!  Lots of people came from all around to find Jesus so that he could heal them.
Communion

Antiphon

 They ate and had their fill, and what they craved the Lord gave them; they were not disappointed in what they craved.    

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

Saturday Sunday Tuesday Ash

Wednesday

 Thursday Friday
      7.15am 7.15am 7.15am
6.30pm

Ouseph Joseph

 9.30am

 

 9.30am

 

 

 9.30am

 

 9.30am

Maureen McGonnell

 9.30am

Anointing of the Sick
Confessions at 6.00pm 11.30am

Gary Morris & Gerry Keane

  

 

 7.00pm    

LENT COMMENCES THIS WEDNESDAY

WITH ASH WEDNESDAY

 

Prayer, Fasting, Almsgiving

 

THE PARISH PROGRAMME FOR LENT

IS ON THE ENCLOSED FLYER

 

Could those who are last to leave the Parish grounds

in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

PARISH OFFICE

The parish office will close this Friday and Monday 23rd February.

SAFEGUARDING

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 23rd 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 23rd February please let Karen Diamond 077 1110 9268 or Noeleen Dunn 078 7949 8131 know by this Sunday.

PARISH FAMILY

Proclamation of the Word  –  volunteers are urgently required for this important Ministry. To meet this need a series of four training sessions begins on Monday 23rd February at 7.30pm in the Church. If you are interested in contributing to this fulfilling  aspect of Parish life please contact John Barry on 9065 4395 / 078 4072 8477 or email jb654395@yahoo.co.uk.

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

CHURCH OPENING TIMES  –  the church will be open each day at the following times:  Monday – 10.00am  to 3.30pm; Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – 9.00am to 3.30pm; Friday – 9.00am to 1.00pm; Saturday – 6.00pm to 7.30pm and Sunday – 9.00am to 1.00pm.

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.

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 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 ‘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.

DECEASED

We pray for the repose of the souls of Michael McHugh who died last Saturday and Winnie Fitzgerald who died last Sunday.  We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially;

Ouesph Joseph,  Gary Morris,  Gerry Keane,  Maureen McGonnell,

Bridget Allen  and  Eva Haan.

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

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

DIOCESAN VOCATIONS

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

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

THIS WEEK

Scripture and Prayer Group  –  Our normal meeting for this Tuesday evening has been cancelled.

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

OTHER NOTICES

SLOW DOWN SATURDAY  –  enjoy a cup of tea and a bit of calm, time to think and pray, time for you and God, guided gently by Breige O’Hare, on Saturday 28th February from 11.00am to 12.45pm, in The Old School, beside St Patrick’s Church, Donegall Street (room opposite Veritas bookshop). Donation £1. Booking essential. To book, ring Breige at well.com on 9031 9530 or contact her through her website www.athomewithgod.co.uk

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

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

NORTHERN IRELAND HOSPICE SHOP IN BALLYHACKMORE  –  are very dependent on the local community to fund their services.  The shop is looking for volunteers.  If you would like to volunteer please contact the shop manager on 9065 1706.

STRESS CONTROL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME  – Belfast Health and Social Care Trust are offering a choice of a free  six week stress control programme.  Choice 1, in the Skainos Centre, Newtownards Road on a Monday evening commencing on Monday 23rd February.  Choice 2 – Falls Road Library on a Thursday evening commecning on Thursday 26th February.  Each evening runs from 6.30pm to 8.00pm.  There is no need to book.  Just turn up on the night.  For more information please contact Audrey at 9504 2689 for more information.

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

 

8th February 2015

VOL. 23 NO. 11  8TH 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

 

FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – (Page 709, 452 & 499)

5th Week in Ordinary Time

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

Entrance

Antiphon

 O come, let us worship God and bow low before the God who made us, for he is the Lord our God.
1st Reading (Job 7:1-4, 6-7)  Restlessly I fret till twilight falls.
Psalm Praise the Lord who heals the broken-hearted.
2nd Reading (1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23)  I should be punished if I did not preach the Gospel.
Acclamation Alleluia, alleluia!  I am the light of the world, says the Lord, anyone who follows me will have the light of life.  Alleluia!
Gospel (Mark 1:29-39)   He cured many who suffered from diseases of one kind or another.
Children Simon Peter’s mother-in-law had a temperature.  When Jesus heard this he went and made her well.  Lots of other people in the town wanted Jesus to heal them too.  Jesus was kept very busy healing everyone.  Very early next morning Jesus got up and went away by himself to pray.  He decided to go to another town to spread the good news about God’s love even further.
Communion

Antiphon

 Let them thank the Lord for his mercy, his wonders for the children of men, for he satisfies the thirsty soul, and the hungry he fills with good things.    

 

MASS TIMES FOR COMING WEEK

Saturday Sunday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
6.30pm

Danny Barclay

 9.30am

 

 9.30am

James McCaskey

 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am

Anointing of the Sick
Confessions at 6.00pm 11.30am

Dennis Noonan

        

 

 

Could those who are last to leave the Parish grounds

in the evening please close the car park gates.

 

LENT COMMENCES WITH

ASH WEDNESDAY ON 18TH FEBRUARY

Prayer, Fasting, Almsgiving

 

PARISH PROGRAMME FOR LENT

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

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

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

WALK WITH ME BOOKS – A Lenten Journey of Prayer for 2015, are available at the back of the Church.  Price £1.  Please put money in the box beside Confessional.

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

Awakening Faith Programme  –  will take place on Sunday 1st, Sunday 15th and Sunday 29th March after the 9.30am Mass.  More details about each week’s programme will follow.

THE GIFT  – An inspiring and practical series aimed at people of all ages to help them encounter the Holy Spirit and empower them to share their faith. The six sessions cover: The Father’s Loving Plan; The Joy of the Gospel; The Gift of the Spirit; Unwrapping God’s Gift; Encountering God’s Spirit; Living in the Spirit.  Everyone is invited to gather together at 10.00am on Friday mornings during Lent, in the Iona room, where we will begin with refreshments.

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

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.

SAFEGUARDING

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 23rd 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 23rd February please let Karen Diamond 077 1110 9268 or Noeleen Dunn 078 7949 8131 know before 14th February.

 

PARISH FAMILY

CHURCH OPENING TIMES  –  the church will be open each day at the following times:  Monday – 10.00am  to 3.30pm; Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – 9.00am to 3.30pm; Friday – 9.00am to 1.00pm; Saturday – 6.00pm to 7.30pm and Sunday – 9.00am to 1.00pm.

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.

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 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.

 

DECEASED

We pray for the repose of the souls of Dympna Gullery, a parishioner, who died last weekend, Mary Joseph McCaffrey and James McCaskey who died during the week.  We also remember all those whose anniversaries occur at this time of year especially;

Danny Barclay,  Denis Noonan,   Willie Gallagher,  Frank McEvoy,

Gerard Kiely and Kevin Ballentine.

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 this 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 this 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 13th to Sunday 15th 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 30th April 2015.  For more information on vocations please contact Father Kevin McGuckien on 9061 4567.

 

THIS WEEK

ST COLMCILLE’S GUIDE UNIT – will be holding their Enrolment Ceremony this  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 Hall this Sunday at 4.00pm. Members and new members welcome.

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

 

COMING EVENTS

Scripture and Prayer Group  –  Our normal meeting on Tuesday 17th February has been cancelled. We will meet again in March.

 

OTHER NOTICES

NORTHERN IRELAND HOSPICE SHOP IN BALLYHACKMORE  –  are very dependent on the local community to fund their services.  The shop is looking for volunteers.  If you would like to volunteer please contact the shop manager on 9065 1706.

PRAYING THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS –  with Padraig O’Tuama at Drumalis, Larne this Thursday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, including tea/coffee.  The suggested contribution is £5.  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 this Thursday to next Saturday 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 24th February – Signs of hope in the Church today? By Father Brian D’Arcy.  Brian McKee will give the following talks: Tuesday 3rd March – A Voice in the Wilderness?  Tuesday 10th March – Pope Francis – Where does he fit into the papacy?  Tuesday 24th March – Building a Church of the People.  Each evening begins at 7.30pm.  Come along for one evening or for the full series of talks.  Voluntary donation.  Everyone welcome!

 

1st February 2015

VOL. 23 NO. 10 1ST 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)

4th 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 10th 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 23rd 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 23rd February please let Karen Diamond 077 1110 9268 or Noeleen Dunn 078 7949 8131 know before 14th 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 13th to Sunday 15th 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 30th 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 12th 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 12th to Saturday 14th 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 24th February – Signs of hope in the Church today? By Father Brian D’Arcy. Brian McKee will give the following the talks: Tuesday 3rd March – A Voice in the Wilderness? Tuesday 10th March – Pope Francis – Where does he fit into the papacy? Tuesday 24th March – Building a Church of the People. Each evening begins at 7.30pm. Come along for one evening or for the full series of talks. Voluntary donation. Everyone welcome!

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.