11.00 am Mass on Sundays

This is the first of the new Mass time on Sundays. We hope that bringing the 10 and 12 Mass congregations together we will have a better liturgy, enhanced by the choir (which happens to be off this weekend following a very full Holy Week). A small scattering of people in such a large church does not create the sense of community that the Mass should be. We hope too that a longer Sunday afternoon will be of benefit, especially for those who have to cook lunch for the family.

Eastertide

Today we move into the second week of the seven week period called Eastertide. This is meant to give us an opportunity to absorb the significance of Easter. The readings chosen by the Church for the weekend and daily Masses at this time draw out the meaning of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Eastertide includes the celebration of the Ascension of Christ and concludes with the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

          I expect all who took part in the Holy Week and Easter ceremonies were uplifted by participation in these liturgies. I found Good Friday particularly life-giving. My wish is that these ceremonies will continue to influence us: deepen our faith; enhance our sense of hope; inspire a life of commitment to people.

Easter Collection and Spring Dues

The response to both the Easter Collection and the request for the Spring Dues has been most positive. It is heartening to know that people care and are willing to contribute to the priests’ income without fuss. As I explained in the letter with the Dues request, these are the only means of acquiring income: we are not paid by the diocese which is understandable. May you be greatly blessed for your generous response.

New Rotas for Ministers of the Word and Eucharist have been circulated. Hard copies are available on the altar rails. May all involved in these ministries be greatly blessed. Thanks to Maeve Kennedy and Christine O’Neill who prepare these rotas for the parish throughout the year.

Parish Finance Committee meets tomorrow Monday, at 4.30 pm

Parish Assembly meets tomorrow at 8.00 pm

Boiler Fund The amount received to date is €28,180. Imagine! Three months after taking on the challenge of raising €29,300 to pay for the new boiler we are nearly there. It’s a great relief to us all to know that the bill is almost paid, but equally important is the attitude of parishioners that enabled this to be possible.

Recessional Hymn: Hail Redeemer, King divine!