LORD AND MY GOD In this Sunday’s reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we see the growth of the early church, as the Apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of Jesus. They were highly regarded and everyone looked up to them, even though many were afraid to be seen publically with them. From the beginning there was opposition, as we in our time find that some people are reluctant to be associated with believers, and we have to face hostility and indeed acknowledge the failures in our Church; and like Thomas, we experience doubt.
The disciples were filled with joy as they met the risen Christ, and we pray for that joy in our lives too. Jesus’ first word is “peace,” as he sends the disciples, and sends us, on the same mission which the Father gave him, “to make known to his people their salvation through forgiveness of all their sins, the loving kindness of the heart of our God who visits us like the dawn from on high.” Like Jesus, on that mission we will experience both acceptance and rejection. To give us hope and courage, we encounter Jesus and the possibility of Easter joy every time we go to Mass, when we unite ourselves with him and he says “my peace I give you,” and like Thomas, we say “my Lord and my God.”
Jubilee of Mercy: Pope Francis has announced the celebration of an extraordinary Holy Year, a “Jubilee of Mercy” which will commence on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, 8th December next, and will conclude on November 20th, 2016, the Solemnity of Christ the King. The papal Bull is made public on this Saturday evening, the vigil of Divine Mercy Sunday, the choice of publication date of the Bull demonstrates the Holy Father’s particular attention to the theme of Mercy.
The Annual Cork and Ross Vocations Information Day will be held at St. Dominic’s Retreat Centre, Ennismore, Montenotte, on next Sunday April 19th from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm. 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 Canon Bertie O’Mahony 021 4371684
Parish Assembly: meet this Monday 13th April in Parish Centre at 8.00 pm. Agendas may be collected from the Sacristy.
St Joseph’s Young Priests Society will meet on Tuesday 14th April at 7.30 pm in Parish Centre.
Easter Offerings : Fr. Kerry & Fr. Billy sincerely thank you for your Easter Offerings – much appreciated
“Do this in Memory” There will be a meeting of the Parent Representatives in Fr. Kerry’s house this Monday 13th April at 7.30 pm.
Confirmation Retreat for Bunscoil Chriost Ri Confirmation candidates on Wednesday at Nemo Rangers, usual school hours.
Confirmation 2014: Mass and Ceremony of Light for Bunscoil Chriost Ri Confirmation candidates and their parents at 7.30 pm Wednesday next April 15th in the Parish Church.
Trocaire Boxes: Can be returned at the Mass during the week
Parish Library: will be open next weekend 18/19th April. Return book and take another.
Collection for Diocesan Needs next weekend 18/19th April
Deaths: We remember in our prayers Tim Hurley, Evergreen Rd., Jack Benson, Barry Daly and Breda O’Sullivan who died recently. We extend our sympathy to their families.
Soul Food: Informal information evening for men interested in a religious vocation, 6.30 pm, Friday 17th April at Presentation Brothers, Mardyke House, Mardyke, Cork. Full details on www.PresentationBrothers.org <http://www.PresentationBrothers.org> or contact Anthony at 086-0898120.
Divine Mercy Sunday Prayers in St Augustine’s Church, Washington Street on this Sunday 12th April starting at 2.00 pm. Will include Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Confession, Chaplet, talks on Reconciliation and on St Faustina, Rosary and will conclude with Mass at 4.00 pm.
Summer Scheme: Registration for South Parish/Turners Cross Summer Scheme on Wednesday 15th April in the South Parish Community Centre, Sawmill Street at 8.00 pm. A fundraising table quiz on Friday 17th April at 8:30 pm in the Market Tavern Bar, Anglesea Street. All Welcome
Positive Psychology/Mindfulness and Relaxation Classes commencing in Turners Cross Community Centre on Tues. 14th April from 7:30-9:00 a 6 week course. Contact: Judy Phelan R.G.N 085 7142944