MARRIAGE
A special weekly newsletter on marriage issued by the Irish Bishops Conference asks that we think about marriage. Copies of the Newsletter are available in the Sacristy. It states that Marriage is important, and we should reflect deeply about it especially between now and May. The effects of the proposed amendment will be far-reaching for this and for future generations. We should consider these questions:

–  should the amendment be passed, will it become increasingly difficult to speak in public about marriage as being between a man and a woman?

–  what will we be expected to teach children in school about marriage?

–  will those who sincerely continue to believe that marriage is between a man and a woman be forced to act against their conscience?

–  can a way be found to protect the civil rights of people who are gay without undermining the fundamental meaning of marriage as commonly understood across cultures, faiths and down the ages?

The Catholic Bishops’ pastoral statement “The Meaning of Marriage” is available in English, Irish and Polish on www.catholicbishops.ie <http://www.catholicbishops.ie> .

Pope Francis hearing confessions

PALM SUNDAY CONFESSIONS:  True preparation for this Sacrament involves taking stock of the overall pattern of my behaviour, my attitudes, and trying to identify what’s holding me back from living a wholly integrated life with others and with God. Next Sunday, Palm Sunday, we will have an opportunity to receive God’s forgiveness. Confessions will be available after all the Masses, including the Vigil Mass on Saturday. A number of priests will be available for confessions.

Palm for Palm Sunday. Please bring your branch of palm to Mass next weekend, palm branches    will be blessed at each Mass

“Do this in Memory”:   the next Mass will be Palm Sunday 29th March at 10.00 am,  Meeting of parent class representatives  on this Monday 23rd March  at 7.30 pm in Fr. Kerry’s  house.

Lent: Weekday Masses 10.00 am & 6.00 pm.  Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament on Wednesdays after the 10.00 am Mass until 11.00 am.  Morning & Evening Prayer of the Church on Fridays during Lent after the 10.00 am &  6.00 pm Masses

Death: We remember in our prayers Pauline O’Driscoll (nee Speight), Rowlands Place, who died recently. We extend our sympathy to her family.

Come and see Information Day for priesthood in Cork & Ross. The Annual Cork and Ross Vocations Information Day will be held at St. Dominic’s Retreat Centre, Ennismore, Montenotte, Cork, on Sunday April 19th from 2.30pm to 5.30pm. Many contemplating the possibility of a vocation to priesthood are nervous about taking the first step. This afternoon allows prospective students to explore the possibility of a vocation and make enquiries in an informal setting. Seminarians for the Diocese will also attend. Further information from:
Fr. Tom Deenihan 021 4301717 or Canon Bertie O’Mahony 021 4371684.

A Parish Pilgrimage to the Holy Land is planned for the 21st October 2016 with a flight direct from Shannon to Tel Aviv  – a trip of a lifetime.  If you are interested give your name in the Sacristy as we would like to have numbers before we offer places to other parishes.

Soul Food: An evening of information and reflection for men (18-40) interested in religious life. Begins with food at 6.30pm, Wednesday 25th March at Presentation Brothers, Mardyke House. Contact Anthony at 086-0898120 or vocation@PresentationBrothers.org to book a place.  Visit www.PresentationBrothers.org <http://www.PresentationBrothers.org>

Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes:  11th – 16th June. Booking forms from Joe Walsh Tours 117 Patrick St.  See notice at back of Church

Legion of Mary Acies in SMA Church, Blackrock Friday March 27th at 7.30 pm, all welcome.

 Turners Cross Community Association. Talk by Liam Higgins for Life Long Learning Week: Growing up in The Marsh in the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s.  Monday March 23rd at 7.30 pm in Turners Cross Community Centre.  All welcome.

Women – Finding Your Way Back to the Workplace. Free workshop Friday March 27th 11.00 am-1.00 pm  will focus on each of the building blocks that will support you to find that perfect job, Understanding your skills and abilities, Presenting skills in your CV, Interview Preparation, Finding inner confidence and belief in yourself. To book a place, contact Norma at Lantern Community Project, Georges Quay on 086-0236442.