Generous sowing
In ancient Egyptian tombs, archaeologists have found grains of wheat and corn still viable after thousands of years. Seeds can wait years for the right conditions to germinate. When that moment comes, they spring forth in seemingly impossible places, determined to carry out their genetic programming. An axiom of gardening is that if the soil is good, the plants will almost inevitably look after themselves. The power is in the seed, but the surrounding environment of soil unlocks that potential.
Do we see our words and deeds as seeds we are planting? Psychologists tell us that everything weve ever experienced is recorded somewhere in our brains. In a similar way, each Christian word and deed is still there out in the world not dead, but waiting for the right conditions to bring new life. This is one of the parables that had to be explained to the Disciples. Werent they fertile ground being prepared to carry on Jesus ministry to the nations? The message to the disciples, and to us, is to focus on the sower. We are not to prejudge where or in whom we plant Gods seeds. We are just to spread Gods message of love to all people and let him take care of the harvest.
Fr Tom Cox can be contacted at St Mels Cathedral, Longford
Email tomascox@eircom.net
An Appreciation
Further to my farewell words at the Masses two weeks ago, I would like to take this opportunity to express once again to all the people of the Parish my sincere thanks for the seven years we have journeyed together.
They were seven great years, and as I said in my talk, I felt I belonged and part of the community. That is a great memory and feeling to take with you when you leave any parish. I was always uplifted by the great community spirit when I approached people to help out in various ways in the Parish. The response was very positive and encouraging.
I would like to acknowledge the great generosity of the people of the Parish over those years and my former Parish Priest, Fr. Kerry Murphy-OConnor for his support and encouragement to me and also to acknowledge his role in co-ordinating the work of the restoration of Christ the King Church, which is once again back to its original beauty.
A Great Landmark of our City
The restored Church is a fitting testimony to the spirit and character of the people of Turners Cross. Finally, I thank you for your prayers and good wishes as I start my new appointment in Blackpool/Glen/Ballyvolane.
Fr. John ODonovan.
St. Josephs Young Priests Society
Monthly meeting will take place in the Parish Centre on Tuesday 12th July at 8 pm.
London Atrocity
We were horrified at the terrible attacks on innocent people in the centre of London on Thursday last and as a parish we extend our sympathy and prayers to the injured and the families of those who were killed.
Pope Benedict XVI has sent the following message to Cardinal Cormac of
Westminster:
Deeply saddened by the news of the terrorist attacks in central London I offer fervent prayers for the victims and for all those who mourn. While I deplore these barbaric acts against humanity, I ask you to convey to the families of those killed and injured my spiritual closeness at this time of grief. I invoke the consolation that only God can give in such circumstances.
The 10 am Mass here in Christ the King on Mon. 11th July will be offered for the victims and their families.
LOTTO DRAW July 4th
Numbers drawn: 13, 17, 22, 23.
1,000 Jackpot Winner: Murphy
Our congratulations to the Winner
35 CASH
I. Roche, B. Cremin, M. Quinlan, K. Moloney
THIS WEEKS JACKPOT : 1,000
Last weeks net take 2,174
Last weeks second Collection 1,130
Anonymous Donation 30
Many thanks for supporting the Parish Lotto in aid of the Church Restoration Fund.