PRAYER
Commenting on the parable of the Unjust Judge, Pope Francis says if the widow can bend the will of the Unjust Judge, then God, who is a good and just Father, will do justice to those who cry out to him day and night. All of us experience moments of fatigue and discouragement, especially when our prayers seem ineffective.  But Jesus assures us that unlike the unjust judge, God promptly answers his children, although this does not mean he does it in the time and manner that we would like. Prayer is not a magic wand, continues the Pope, it helps to preserve our faith in God, and to trust in Him even when we do not understand his will. In this, Jesus himself in his prayer at Gethsemane is our example.

Mission Sunday.  A second collection will be taken up at all Masses next weekend as we support missionary activity abroad through our prayer, sacrifice and financial contributions. The funds collected help Churches who need financial support and are directed towards communities in need, both spiritually and materially.  Last year Irish Catholics contributed more than €1.7 million on Mission Sunday, and this collection was distributed to more than 1,000 young Churches in need. Contributions are used to build simple mission churches, to educate seminarians and female religious novices, and for the formation of catechists and lay leaders. Our Mission Sunday gift may also be used for building health facilities and for emergency aid. We remember the work of missionaries throughout the world including more than 1,300 Irish born missionaries.

Frankfield/Grange Parish are holding two talks on the Eucharist given by Fr. Christy Fitzgerald P.P., Diocesan Director of Liturgy and Dr. Anne Francis, “The Eucharist, A Way to Pray, A Way to Live.” On  Monday 17th and 24th October at 8.00pm in the Parish Centre, Frankfield.

World Missions Ireland’s theme for this year is ‘Every Christian is a Missionary.’    We are called in baptism to bring Christ to others, the gift we have been given, we are asked to give, as our Irish missionaries continue to bring the joy of the Gospel to people throughout the world. For further information on World Missions Ireland or to make a donation please visit <http://www.wmi.ie> .

Collection of Clothing:  Both Cork Simon and SVP greatly appreciated the items of clothing donated last week.

Deaths: We remember in our prayers Noel Daly, High Street and Br. Enda (Matthias) O’Donovan, Presentation Brothers, Maiville,  who died recently we extend our sympathy to their families and community.

Focus Ireland:   There are over 6,000 people homeless in Ireland today and 1 in 4 now experiencing homelessness is a child. Focus Ireland are looking for volunteers to help with their annual bucket collection on Saturday the 5th of November in Cork city, to help raise vital funds to provide services for those experiencing homelessness. If interested in volunteering, please contact Margaret on 086 6042854 or colemanm@focusireland.ie

Marriage Encounter Weekend for married couples presented by Marriage Encounter Ireland at the Lake Hotel, Killarney 18th-20th November.  For more information or to book visit www.marriageencounter.ie <http://www.marriageencounter.ie>  or call 086-6670418/086-8334382