The Very Rev Canon Fr. Martin:

Wed, Thurs, Fri: 11am-2pm

Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it                                  

 

On Tuesday 5th March I travelled to Dublin and spent a lovely evening with

Sr. Mary Xavier’s ‘Sisters of Jesus and Mary’ community in their house in Goatstown.

Sr. Mary Xavier bid farewell to this world

very peacefully in her 101st year.

Sr. Mary Xavier was a household name for the

people of this parish for many years

and her memory lives on and will continue to live on.

She was a member of the Reach Out visitation team,

she coordinated Sunday Mass readers and

prepared bidding prayers for weekend Masses.

She was part of the Residents’ Association,

Parish Committees and worked with Travellers Groups.

All of us whom were lucky enough to know her will remember her for her gentleness, kindness and good humour.

She always had a kind word for anyone who crossed her path.

After Easter we will have a special Mass to celebrate her life and her contribution to this Parish over many years.

May she rest in peace.

Fr. Martin.

 

MASS INTENTIONS

Saturday March 16th

5pm

U

Patrick and Kathleen Coyne

(A)

John and Lena Conroy (A)

Joseph Conroy (A)

Sunday March 17th  

10:30am

U

Michael & Frances Walsh and deceased family members (A)

 

Friday March 22nd

10am

U

Saturday March 23rd

5pm

U

Tony Creane (A)

Thomas Sweeney (A)

Joe Sweeney (A)

James Minogue (A)

Patrick Mongan (3rd A)

 

Sunday March 24th  

10:30am

U

The Peoples Mass

(subject to change)

 

 

 

17th March - Day of Prayer for Emigrants

 

St Patrick, Bishop,Principal Patron

 

Some of us become overwhelmed by life’s contradictions.

 

The pain and injustice that they see on every side causes them to lose all faith in God and in life.

 

That could have happened to Jesus.

 

If ever there was a person who had the right to doubt God, and to despair of the human race,

 

and to become cynical about life;

 

That person was Jesus.

 

But through all of His injustice and all of the pain, His faith did not fail.

 

He kept on believing in God, unlike many of us, He kept on believing in people, He kept believing in life.

 

At Calvary, faith won.

 

“Let us all say: enough … Stop the War! 

In saying this, we join with many in our parishes, together with all people of goodwill, in demanding an immediate end to the daily horror of killing, wounding and destruction of property and infrastructure there.”
https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2024/03/05/let-us-all-say-enough-stop-the-war-irish-bishops

 

We ask for your prayers for the repose of the soul ofMary Cleary

whose funeral Mass was celebrated recently.

May her kind and gentle soul rest in peace.

 

Galway Choral Association is open to new members for the spring term, working towards a concert about Peace in early May, directed by Dr D. McCarthy. 

 

We are a 60-voice SATB choir, based in Galway City, and have vacancies in all sections.  Choral experience and ability to read music are helpful:  Love of music and willingness to work on learning are essential.
SEE:
www.galwaychoral.ie       This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 

Paddys Day Swim Fundraiser for Galwegians rugby club.Our first annual sponsored Paddy's Day Dip takes place this year from 8.30-9.00am at Ballyloughane beach on Lá Fhéile Pádraig; please contact MacDara Hosty on

086 2512762 or  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 

 

 

Mass bookings outside of office hours.

There are intention slips and envelopes for you to fill out at the back of the Church. Place them into the office post-box for inclusion in the Newsletter.

 

 

 

 

 

MASS INTENTIONS

Saturday March 2nd  

5pm

U

Owen Maughan (20th A)

Sunday March 3rd

10:30am

U

Leona Mary Barrett (1st A)

Frankie McDonagh (A)

Annie Tierney (A)

John Tierney (A)

Wednesdays 7pm - 8pm

Friday March 8th  

10am

U

Saturday March 9th

5pm

U

Mike Ward (B.R.)

Theresa Fahey (A)

Sunday March 10th

10:30am

U

SinéadGoodfellow (A)

 

 

 

 

GRIEF INTRODUCED ITSELF

 

I sat with grief and it told me its name,

 

It said “I am love, just turned into pain”.

 

“Please don’t fear me” it went on to say

 

“We need to be friends because I’m here to stay”

 

I said “if you are love then why betray me?

 

can’t you see that I’m in agony”

 

Grief put its arm around me and whispered really low,

“but child can’t you see, their love did not go”

 

Grief then said “They are still with you

 

although their body you can’t see

 

Their love NEVER left you, please believe in me”

 

 

 

 

MASS INTENTIONS

 

Saturday February 17th

 

5pm

 

Edward McDonagh (A)

 

U

 

Sunday February 18th

 

10:30am

 

Dominick Curran (B.R.)

 

U

 

 

 

Friday February 23rd

 

10am

 

U

 

Gary Rattigan (R)

 

Saturday February 24th

 

5pm

 

U

 

William Rossborough (A)

 

Teresa Moran (A)

 

Sunday February 25th

 

10:30am

 

U

 

Mary Scanlon (1st A)

 

Weekday morning Mass is offered in The Holy Family Church, Mervue @ 9:30am daily; All are most welcome.

 

 

COMMUNITY NEWS

 

Ballybane Library are hosting a retirement fair for people who are newly retired or thinking about retiring in the next few months.  The event is on Thursday 22nd of February at 10.30am in Ballybane Library.  People can come along and meet local groups and organisations based in the Eastside of Galway City, who can help them get the most from their retirement goals > 091 509244

 

The Galway PTAA are celebrating 125 years of the Pioneer Association with a social on Saturday 24th February in the Menlo Park Hotel.

 

Contact Frances at 086 3121695

 

 

 

The Pope’s Monthly Intention
For the Terminally Ill: We pray that those with a terminal illness, and their families, receive the necessary physical and spiritual care and accompaniment.

 

EASTER LILY 5K REMEMBERING AOIBHE.

 

ACT FOR MENINGITIS *** EASTER SUNDAY 10.30AMhttps://eventmaster.ie/event/G042TkKtpd

 

“Tribal Running” “Athletics Ireland” Doughiska Park.

 

How often in the Bible the Lord asks us to welcome migrants and foreigners, reminding us that we too are foreigners! – Pope Francis on X

 

Galway City Library is starting a weekly Scrabble for Seniors meeting. Games like scrabble can help to:

 

- Make friends and build new social networks

 

- Support cognitive functioning

 

- Improve mood and overall wellbeing

 

Meetings are on Wednesdays at 2pm, and booking is required. Book by calling 091 509 094 or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 

Galway Sports Partnership are hosting a ‘Come and Try & Grant Information Day’ Ballinfoile Castlegar Centre

Tuesday 13th February 11:30am – 1:30pm

Tea, coffee and light refreshments provided

If you are interested in attending, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Text 087 7511141

 

Galway CathedralSolemn Novena

 

runs from the 5th to 13th February.

 

The theme is '...but above all, do not lose HOPE'

 

Please take home a copy of times and a

 

speakers list left outside the Office door for you

 

Renmore Parish Development Association CLG would like to inform you of the proposed relocation of the Organic Garden from Woodlands Centre Dublin Road to the field south of the bridge in Ballyloughane.

“We are hoping that this project will be welcomed by all who frequent the Ballyloughane area and we are confident that this project will enhance the area greatly” – Cllr Terry O’Flaherty

 

MASS INTENTIONS

 

Saturday February 10th

 

5pm

 

U

 

James “Jimmy” Sweeney (A)

 

Paul Conboy (A)

 

Sunday February 11th

 

10:30am

 

U

 

Seán Gaughan (A)

 

Margaret “Peggy” Ryan (M.M)

 

Wednesdays 7pm - 8pm

 

God of love, you give us

St. Valentine as an example of love. As we gather to celebrate the feast of this loving and caring Saint we ask you to bless our friendships.

May the love and affection we share with each other, always come from a sense of care and respect.

Say a prayer at the Memorial Tree

 

Friday February 16th

 

10am

 

Edward McDonagh (B.R.)

 

Saturday February 17th

 

5pm

 

Edward McDonagh (A)

 

U

 

Sunday February 18th

 

10:30am

 

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT

 

The Peoples Mass

 

(subject to change)

 

 

Prayer for Victims of Abuse – 16th February

 

God of endless love, ever caring, ever strong, always present, always just: You gave your only Son to save us by his blood on the cross. Gentle Jesus, shepherd of peace, join to your own suffering the pain of all who have been hurt in body, mind, and spirit by those who betrayed the trust placed in them. Hear the cries of our brothers and sisters who have been gravely harmed, and the cries of those who love them. Soothe their restless hearts with hope, steady their shaken spirits with faith. Grant them justice for their cause, enlightened by your truth. Holy Spirit, comforter of hearts, heal your people’s wounds and transform brokenness into wholeness. Grant us the courage and wisdom, humility and grace, to act with justice. Breathe wisdom into our prayers and labors. Grant that all harmed by abuse may find peace in justice.

 

We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

 

 

Saturday February 3rd

5pm

Sunday February 4th

10:30am

Paddy & Ellen Kelly (A)

Mercilina Amabuo (R)

Wednesdays 7pm - 8pm

Friday February 9th

10am

U

Martin & Frankie McDonagh (B.R.)

Kate Ward (A)

Jimmy Sweeney (B.R.)

Mary Bridget McDonagh (25th A)

Saturday February 10th

5pm

U

James “Jimmy” Sweeney (A)

Paul Conboy (A)

Sunday February 11th

10:30am

U

Seán Gaughan (A)

Margaret “Peggy” Ryan (M.M)

 

 

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA CAMINO 2024

Join Focus Ireland ‘In the Footsteps of St James” on a fully guided walk from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela along the Camino de Frances and help support families in our community’s experiencing homelessness. Dates 27 May to 3 June. Ex Dublin.  Contact Monica on 087 954 7007 or email  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  

The Galway PTAA are celebrating 125 years of the Pioneer Association with a social on Saturday 24th February in the Menlo Park Hotel.

Contact Frances at 086 3121695

 

The Pope’s Monthly Intention
For the Terminally Ill: We pray that those with a terminal illness, and their families, receive the necessary physical and spiritual care and accompaniment.

The National Steering Committee of the Catechism of the Catholic Church Adult Studies is holding a YouCat workshop on Saturday 10th February 2024 in Knock.

The spiritual director is Fr Vincent Twomey SVD

See Noticeboard for more details

Devote this year to a great “symphony” of prayer and devotion to God – Pope Francis on X

Galway City Library is starting a weekly Scrabble for Seniors meeting. Games like scrabble can help to:

- Make friends and build new social networks

- Support cognitive functioning

- Improve mood and overall wellbeing

Meetings are on Wednesdays at 2pm, and booking is required. Book by calling 091 509 094 or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Medjugorje Youth Festival for 2024, 31st July – 7th August.

For adults aged 18 to 35. SEE NOTICE BOARD

Led by Bishop Michael Duignan. €680 all-inclusive.

Contact the Galway Diocesan Office at 091 563566 or email  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

“As we prayerfully remember those who died in the two World Wars, let us also remember the many - too many - civilians, defenceless victims of the wars that unfortunately still stain our planet with blood.”

                                 Pope Francis

Monday 5th February – St. Brigid’s Day Bank Holiday

Galway CathedralSolemn Novena

runs from the 5th to 13th February.

The theme is '...but above all, do not lose HOPE'

Please take home a leaflet of times and a

Speakers list left outside the office door for you

The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph

Seeing your life through the lens of the Gospel

What started out as an ordinary day for Joseph and Mary turned out to be a day with an encounter they would remember for a long time.

Perhaps you too have had significant encounters on what you expected to be just an ordinary day?

Simeon gave thanks because his eyes saw the salvation God had prepared.

As you look back on the year ending today, in what ways have you experienced God’s salvation in your life: an experience of being loved, or discovering a sense of purpose in life, or being touched by the wonders of creation? Give thanks for those memories.

Perhaps the past year may also have been one in which you have experienced great sorrow.

What sword has pierced your soul and what has helped you to cope with it?

The final sentence speaks of Jesus as one who grew and became strong and was filled with wisdom.

What has helped you to grow in wisdom?

Have you seen others grow in wisdom through the experience of life? Recall times when you had a sense of growing up in some way. What brought that about?

Think also of how you have seen growth in another person.

 

 

 

The Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph is celebrated on the Sunday after Christmas. This feast developed at the beginning of the 19th century in Canada and then spread to the entire Church in 1920. At first, it was celebrated on the Sunday after Epiphany.

 

It is a Feast that seeks to portray the Holy Family of Nazareth as the “true model of life” from which our families can draw inspiration and know where to find help and comfort.

 

 

 

Dear Lord, please give me ...
A few friends who understand me and remain my friends;
A work to do which has real value, without which the world would be the poorer;
A mind unafraid to travel, even though the trail be not blazed;
An understanding heart;
A sense of humor;
Time for quiet, silent meditation;
A feeling of the presence of God;
The patience to wait for the coming of these things,
With the wisdom to recognise them when they come.

 

MASS INTENTIONS

Saturday December 30th

5pm

Áine Walsh (1st A)

Gerry Barrett (R)

Dympna Lydon (1st A)

Thomas Sweeney (A)

U

 

Sunday December 31st  

10:30am

Christina McDermott (A)

 

 

Friday January 5th

10am

&

 

Saturday January 6th

5pm

&

Tina Donnellan (A)

Kevin McDonagh (A)

 

Sunday January 7th

10:30am

&

Micheal Monaghan Sr. (A)

Micheal Monaghan Jr. (A)

 

 

 

ChristmasMessage

It must have been a daunting task for Mary and Joseph searching for a room and accommodation for the birth of Jesus.  Mary, about to give birth to the son of God and no room in the inn.  A humble stable was the only option and a welcome option it was in the end. In recent times we have witnessed the extraordinary efforts made by so many people across our country to do everything possible to make room for the stranger and those feeling from war and persecution of one kind or another.  The challenge is enormous but as a Christian people we have no option but to find room in the inn.

May God bless us with the generosity to keep responding to this daunting challenge.

Could I send a sincere word of gratitude to you the people of the parishes, sincere thanks to the pastoral teams, the finance committees and the various other groups who do trojan work in looking after the day to day needs of your parish. 

A special thanks to our secretaries who not only look after the needs of the parishioners and the priests, but also the day to day running of the parish offices and balance our books on a monthly basis,

your help is much appreciated. 

I am blessed with my fellow priests, nothing is too much for them and this year we are blessed with the arrival of Fr. Noel Gillespie, his gentle and caring presence has lightened the load for the rest of us.

The simplicity of Jesus our Lord and Saviour being born in a humble stable is a reminder to us all that what really matters is not what we have but what we are; a Christian people, a people of light, a people of hope, a people born in the image and likeness of God himself.

I look forward to the new year with great hope, have a lovely Christmas.

Fr. Martin   

 

Seeing your life through the Lens of the Gospel

We are all favoured ones and God is with us. Sometimes we are more aware of this than others. How have you experienced being a favoured person, one blessed by God? How have you experienced God’s presence? Who has been Gabriel to you … a messenger of good news? 

‘Do not be afraid’. Mary was perplexed by the words of the angel. Perhaps you too have sometimes been perplexed by life’s path and wondered what it all meant. Perhaps at times you have doubted if God was really with you.

In your troubled moments who has been an ‘angel’ helping to lower your anxiety? 

Mary was taken by surprise by the invitation, but she did not tell the angel she was not ready, nor ask him to return later. She was prepared to go with the invitation even though it was not the ‘right moment’. ‘Here I am Lord’.

What invitations have come to you at the ‘wrong time’ and how have you responded? 

Mary’s response serves as a model for us – as one saying ‘yes’ to what life offers.

What is it like for you to say ‘yes’ to life? Perhaps at this moment in your life you are being invited to say: ‘Here I am, Lord’?

 

We ask for your prayers for the repose of the soul of

 

Oliver Kane

 

Sacred Heart of Jesus pray for him.

 

 

The Meaning and Importance of the Nativity Scene
The presence of the poor and the lowly in the nativity scene remind us that God became man for the sake of those who feel most in need of his love and who ask him to draw near to them. Jesus, ‘gentle and humble in heart’ (Mt 11:29), was born in poverty and led a simple life in order to teach us to recognise what is essential and to act accordingly.

The nativity scene clearly teaches that we cannot let ourselves be fooled by wealth and fleeting promises of happiness.

From the manger, Jesus proclaims, in a meek yet powerful way, the need for sharing with the poor as the path to a more human and fraternal world in which no one is excluded or marginalised

 

The Holy Father upheld the Focolare Movement's significant role in spreading the message of unity for the past eight decades.

Recalling that the movement's mission is to live the Gospel through a single, simple word: unity, he said –

In these eighty years, you have echoed this message among the youth, communities, families, consecrated individuals, priests, bishops, and in various social environments.

"Please sow unity by bringing the Gospel, never losing sight of the work of incarnation that God continues to want to accomplish in and around us through His Spirit," he appealed.

Come join our new Choir, we practice every Sunday at 9:30am.

Comeon your own, come with friends, All are most welcome!!

CHRISTMAS DAY MASS 10:30am

 

 

Friday December 22nd

10am

&

Kathleen McDonagh (A)

Christina McDonagh (B.R.)

Catherine O’Donnell (A)

Saturday December 23rd

5pm

&

Barbara O’Loughlin (A)

Sunday December 24th    

10:30am

&

Noel Healy (A)

Gary Stuart (1st A)

5pm

Christmas Eve Mass

Christmas Day 10:30am

Friday December 29th

10am

&

John “JT” Moran (3rd A)

Saturday December 30th

5pm

&

Áine Walsh (1st A)

Gerry Barrett (R)

Dympna Lydon (1st A)

Thomas Sweeney (A)

Sunday December 31st  

10:30am

&

Christina McDermott (A)

 

COMMUNITY NEWS

Pope Francis announced His first World Day of Children.

At the end of the Angelus, Pope Francis announced that the first World Day of Children will take place in May next year.  The initiative is being promoted by the Dicastery for Culture and Education.

Pioneers around the world are invited to attend Mass Wednesday 27th  and to prayerfully mark the 125th anniversary of the foundation of the Association in 1898. Mass and prayers will be live-streamed on that day at 10.00am www.pioneerassociation.org

Medjugorje Pilgrimage - - Knock to Mostar. Sept. 18th to Sept. 25th. Accompanied by Spiritual Director. Accommodation 2 mins from church.

Early booking with discount before 3rd February 2024. Further details: Anne Keadin, 086 376 6293

 “All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle.” - St. Francis Of Assisi

Hold your own Galway Hospice Santa Dash this Christmas!

All registered schools will be entered into a draw to win an ice cream van visit from Americano Ice cream for your whole school! Call the Fundraising Team on 091 770868

https://galwayhospice.ie/santadash/

This year is the 800th anniversary of the first re-enactment of the Nativity Scene by St Francis in Greccio, Italy.

To mark the anniversary, there will be a display of cribs in the Franciscan Abbey, from December 8th to January 8th

Scripture Group meet and reflect on the

Sunday Gospel every Tuesday from 7:30pm to 8:30pm

in Seomra Bríde. All are welcome.

For further information contact Frances on 087 6215865

Come join our Choir, we practice every Sunday at 9:30am.

Come on your own, come with friends,

All are most welcome!!

Friends of the Elderly depend on your support to continue to reach out to the elderly who are alone.

If you would like more information about fundraising for Friends of the Elderly, please contact

Deborah Costello at 01-8731855 or email  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Dave, our Galway Hospice Pastoral Care Chaplain, was one of the twelve photographers featured in the 2024 calendar!

Dave's photograph features a stunning sunset over Oranmore Castle, with beautiful warm colours that wonderfully represent the month of May.

Our 2024 calendars are just €10, and all proceeds directly support Galway Hospice care.

https://galwayhospice.ie/shop/galway-hospice-2024-calendar/

 

 

Saturday December 16th  

5pm

Conor Patrick Landy(M.M.)

MairtínScanlon (A)

Mary McCabe (R)

(Her funeral recently celebrated in the UK)

Sunday December 17th

10:30am

Edward Kavanagh (A)

Friday December 22nd

10am

&

Kathleen McDonagh (A)

Christina McDonagh (B.R.)

Catherine O’Donnell (A)

Saturday December 23rd

5pm

&

Barbara O’Loughlin (A)

Sunday December 24th    

10:30am

&

Noel Healy (A)

Gary Stuart (1st A)

5pm

Christmas Eve Mass

We ask for your prayers for the repose of the soul of

Liam Hynes & Peggy (Margaret) Ryan

Sacred Heart of Jesus pray for them.

Pope Francis announced His first World Day of Children.

At the end of the Angelus, Pope Francis announced that the first World Day of Children will take place in May next year. The initiative is being promoted by the Dicastery for Culture and Education.

See the rising sun light up the chamber at Newgrange as we broadcast LIVE from inside the chamber itself on December 21st. We are inviting people from all over Ireland and the world to experience this extraordinary phenomenon

Full details: https://www.newgrange.com/solstice

Mass bookings outside of office hours

There are intention slips and envelopes for you to fill out at the back of the Church. Place them into the office post-box for inclusion in the Newsletter or email

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

“All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle.” - St. Francis Of Assisi

Hold your own Galway Hospice Santa Dash this Christmas!

All registered schools will be entered into a draw to win an ice cream van visit from Americano Ice cream for your whole school!Call the Fundraising Team on 091 770868

https://galwayhospice.ie/santadash/

Military chaplains offer spiritual support to serving personnel and their families. They make a unique contribution to the military community and they have involvement in many aspects of military life, at home and at sea. Congratulations to Fr. Des Campion on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of his ordination. 

This year is the 800th anniversary of the first re-enactment of the Nativity Scene by St Francis in Greccio, Italy.

To mark the anniversary, there will be a display of cribs in the Franciscan Abbey, from December 8th to January 8th

John Paul Centre Christmas Prayers and Carol's

Monday 18th December @ 11.30am

All are most welcome

Scripture Group meet and reflect on the

Sunday Gospel every Tuesday from 7:30pm to 8:30pm

in Seomra Bríde. All are welcome.

For further information contact Frances on 087 6215865

GTM attended the National Traveller Mental health network demonstration outside the Dail calling for an independent national Traveller Mental health plan. More details see: National Traveller Womens Forum Healthy Galway City#TravellerMindsMatter #MentalHealth

 

 

Seeing Your Life

Through The Lens of The Gospel

This judgement scene contains surprises for us. One surprise is that nobody is condemned for doing wrong, but for their failure to do good. Being a disciple of Jesus is a positive choice about how we live and relate to others.

Perhaps sin-avoidance has sometimes dominated your view of what was being asked of you.

What difference has it made for you when you viewed your Christian life as a daily opportunity to make a positive difference to others? 

Another way of saying this is that the aim of Christian living is not me-centred (about my personal sanctification) but other-centred (about responding to the needs of others). What happens to you when you get caught up in yourself? Is your life not better, and often more enjoyable, when you can look beyond yourself to others? 

Another surprise is to hear Jesus tell us that when we do something for another, he considers it done to himself. When has seeing Christ in others helped you in your dealings with them? 

The story is about the judgement of the whole of humanity. It presents an ideal of society in which human relationships at all levels are governed by the law of love.

 

Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe ~26th Samhain

 

As the great wheel of the liturgy spins,
It lands here, once a year,
To remind us that Christ is King –
In winter’s chill or late autumn drear,
We need reminding that new life will come,
Springing from frozen roots and brittle branches.

 

As we prepare to approach the manger once more,
We need this renewal in understanding
That the glory of God turns up in the most unexpected places.

 

O Christ the King, turn our hearts this day
Not only to the world around us
But to the world within us –
Where your Kingdom comes anew
With each act of love we offer,
Each prayer we whisper, each breath we draw. Amen.

 

Mass will be celebrated in Galway Cathedral at 12.30pm on

Sunday 26th November to mark the first anniversary of the death of

Bishop Martin Drennan.

 

COMMUNITY NEWS

 

A set of Advent talks will run for the first three Wednesdays of December in the Sacred Heart Church, Seamus Quirke Road: 8.00pm each Wednesday on 6th, 13th and 20th December. See Noticeboard for more …

 

The Ability West Fashion Show & Entertainment Night is back after a five-year absence! It takes place on Wednesday 6th December in The Clayton Hotel. www.abilitywest.ie/store

 

Michael Flanagan on 087 7730105.

 

Scripture Group meet and reflect on the Sunday Gospel every Tuesday from 7:30pm to 8:30pm in Seomra Bríde. All are welcome. For further information contact Frances on 087 6215865

 

Tree of Lights – www.galwayhospice.ie/lights

 

Dedicate a Light to a loved one on the Tree of Lights

 

Join the Tree of Lights Celebration at 5pm on

 

Sunday 3rd December -Contact: 091-770868

 

Online Advent Retreat. The Priory Institute is delighted to offer a FREE OF CHARGE online retreat  'Reflecting on the Sunday Gospels of Advent'Visit our website prioryinstitute.com

 

 

 

The Poor Clares Galway community have published an updated 10th anniversary edition of their best-selling book www.poorclares.ie/calm-the-soul

 

Spinal Injuries Ireland Tall Ships Challenge 2024

Please join us for the Tall Ships Adventure in Guadeloupe & the Caribbean from the 11th - 19th February This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it    See Notice board for more info.

 

Mary’s Meals Christmas Gifts Campaign Visit marysmeals.ie to download a gift today or call 089-4339592 for details.

 

ALONE is asking for volunteers in Galway/Mayo and surrounding areas for older people who need befriending for up to one hour per week, and/or telephone support for up to 2 hours per week.

If this is something that interests you, then please reach out to Paul Stafford at 086 0135043, email  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 

On Thursday 30th November Cancer Care West are hosting a talk on 'Living with Cancer' by Dr Harry Barry.

 

If you would like to attend this talk in the Cancer Support Centre please register today as places are limited 091540040

 

#Cancer#CancerSupport#cancersurvivor#CancerAwareness

 

Please return your list of deceased family and friends for inclusion in the November Novena of Remembrance

 

 

 

Every year brings its own challenges;

this year the Lord called home one of your loved ones, a mother, a father, a brother or a sister.

I would like to invite you and your family to a special Mass for all the people who died in the parishes of Ballybane, Castlegar, Mervue, and the Good Shepherd over the past twelve months.

The Mass will take place in Mervue Church at 7pm on Monday the 20th of November.

We will have light refreshments in the room at the back of the Church for all afterwards.

I’m looking forward to praying with you all for your loved ones on the night, Fr. Martin                  

Seeing Your Life Through The Lens of The Gospel

A gift given in love, is given to be enjoyed, treasured, and used. Through fear, one servant failed to recognise the loving trust being shown to him and buried the talent. When have you found that overcoming fear helped you to make the most of opportunities in life?

Pope Francis in his letter The Joy of the Gospel wrote,

‘I invite everyone to be bold and creative in this task of rethinking the goals, structures, style and methods of evangelisation in their respective communities …

The important thing is to not walk alone,

but to rely on each other as brothers and sisters’

Let us #PrayTogether for #Peace, especially for martyred Ukraine and for the Holy Land.

May we not forget Sudan, which suffers greatly.

We should take a moment each day to pray for peace.

We desire peace!

As November is upon us, we honour and remember our dearly departed family and friends. Join us as we pray for those who have touched our lives and left an everlasting legacy in our hearts.

- November Altar Lists of the Dead –

Please return your list of deceased family and friends for inclusion in the November Novena of Remembrance

 

PARISH MASS TIMES

 

Friday: 10am

 

Saturday Vigil: 5pm

 

Sunday: 10:30am

 

 

Mass bookings outside of office hours:

There are intention slips for you to fill out at the back of the Church.

Place them into the post-box for inclusion in the Newsletter.

 

Should you URGENTLY need a Priest

 

please contact 091-755381

 

 

COMMUNITY NEWS

 

Remembrance Mass for the John Paul Centre on Monday 20th November at 11:30am here in St. Brigid’s Church.

 

AWAKE GALWAY - 2 day Retreat

Confession, Holy Mass, Word of God, Healing Prayer.

Join us in the Good Shepherd Church, Doughiska

(across from Lidl) H91 HRN2 on Dec 1st : 03.00pm - 08.00pm & Dec 2nd :10.00am - 05.00pm

Contact : Tom 0876209090 or Dympna 0872302681

Please see Notice board for more information

 

Mass will be celebrated in Galway Cathedral at 12.30pm on Sunday 26th November to mark the first anniversary of the death of Bishop Martin Drennan.

 

Scripture Group meet and reflect on the Sunday Gospel every Tuesday from 7:30pm to 8:30pm in Seomra Bríde. All are welcome. For further information contact Frances on 087 6215865

 

Tree of Lights – www.galwayhospice.ie/lights

 

Dedicate a Light to a loved one on the Tree of Lights

 

Join the Tree of Lights Celebration at 5pm on

 

Sunday 3rd December - Contact: 091-770868

 

A wonderful family has raised just under €40,000 for Galway Hospice in memory of Mary Sweeney. The Sweeney and Creaven families organised a climb of Croagh Patrick.

 

 

 

The Poor Clares Galway community have published an updated 10th anniversary edition of their best-selling book www.poorclares.ie/calm-the-soul

 

World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, Sunday 19th November ~ Mass in Knock @ 12 noon

 

Mary’s Meals Christmas Gifts Campaign Visit marysmeals.ie to download a gift today or call 089-4339592 for details.

 

Galway Hospice 5K or 10k Night Run takes place 25th Nov

 

Western Alzheimers will host a coffee morning at Galway Golf Club, Salthill, on Tuesday 21 November, from 11.00am to 12.30pm, with a superdraw at 12.15pm.   086 8177789. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 

Spinal Injuries Ireland Tall Ships Challenge 2024

Please join us for the Tall Ships Adventure in Guadeloupe & the Caribbean from the 11th - 19th February This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  See Notice board for more info.

 

 

 

MASS INTENTIONS

 

Saturday November 18th

 

5pm

 

U

 

Alan Conboy (A)

 

Sunday November 19th

 

10:30am

 

U

 

Tony Kilkelly (A)

 

Richard Kilkelly (A)

 

Tony Jr Kilkelly (A)

 

Noreen Kilkelly (A)

 

U

 

Wednesdays 7pm - 8pm

 

Friday November 24th

 

10am

 

Saturday November 25th

 

5pm

 

Thomas Sweeney (A)

 

U

 

Sunday November 26th

 

10:30am

 

The Peoples Mass

 

(subject to change)

 

HARVEST DUES ENVELOPES ARE AVAILABLE

AT THE BACK OF THE CHURCH

 

Mass bookings outside of office hours

 

There are intention slips and envelopes left for you at the back of the Church.

 

Place them into the post-box for

 

inclusion in the Newsletter or email

 

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 

 

 

MASS INTENTIONS

MASSES FOR ALL THE NAMES ON THE NOVEMBER LISTS

Saturday November 11th

5pm

Gary Thomas Rattigan (R)

Patrick Mongan (A)

(Paddy)

U

Sunday October 12th

10:30am

Nora Concannon (A)

James Sweeney (A)

Johnny O’Malley (A)

John Sean Og O’Brien (A)

Martin O’Brien (A)

Mary Molloy (A)

U

Eucharistic Adoration

Wednesdays 7pm-8pm

Friday November 17th

10am

Saturday November 18th

5pm

U

Alan Conboy (A)

Sunday November 19th

10:30am

U

Tony Kilkelly (A)

Richard Kilkelly (A)

Tony Jr Kilkelly (A)

Noreen Kilkelly (A)

 

Seeing Your Life Through The Lens of The Gospel

While the parable has clear end-of-time applications it can also be applied to any moment of grace.

It reminds us that moments of grace come unexpectedly, and we need to be awake to receive them. Recall times when you were alert for such a moment. What were the consequences for you? 

Grace can also be disturbing. We can be coasting along in life and suddenly an opportunity or a graced moment arrives and we are shaken out of our routine in order to respond. Perhaps you can recall both moments when you were unprepared, and moments when you were able to respond. What lessons have you learned from such experiences? 

Every year brings its own challenges, this year the Lord called home one of your loved ones, a mother, a father, a brother or a sister.

I would like to invite you and your family to a special Mass for all the people who died in the parish of Castlegar, Mervue, Ballybane and the Good Shepherd over the past twelve months.

The Mass will take place in Mervue Church at 7pm on Monday the 20th of November.

We will have light refreshments in the room at the back of the Church for all afterwards.

Looking forward to praying with you all

for your loved ones on the night.

As November is upon us, we honour and remember our dearly departed family and friends.

Join us as we pray for those who have touched our lives and left an everlasting legacy in our hearts.

- November Altar Lists of the Dead –

Please return your list of deceased family and friends for inclusion in the November Novena of Remembrance

 

COMMUNITY NEWS

The new Memory Tree at the heart of Galway Hospice in Renmore has 320 bronze, silver and gold coloured metallic leaves. 

Each leaf can be engraved with the name of a loved one, a family name or company name. 

contact Fundraising on 091-770868 or  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Western Alzheimers will host a coffee morning at Galway Golf Club, Salthill, on Tuesday 21 November, from 11.00am to 12.30pm, with a

superdraw at 12.15pm.  All proceeds in aid of Western Alzheimers. For further information and ticket sales please tel. 086 8177789.

We pray for the Holy Father; as he fulfils his mission, may he continue to accompany the flock entrusted to him, with the help of the Holy Spirit.

“Your prayers give me strength and help me to discern and accompany the Church, listening to the Holy Spirit”Pope Francis on X

World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, Sunday 19th November ~ Mass in Knock @ 12 noon

Scripture Group meet and reflect on the Sunday Gospel every Tuesday from 7:30pm to 8:30pm in Seomra Bríde.

All are welcome. For further information contact Frances on 087 6215865

Mass bookings outside of office hours.

There are intention slips and envelopes for you to fill out at the back of the Church & place them into the post-box for inclusion in the Newsletter

SCCUL ENTERPRISE Centre is running a Lunch Club every second Wednesday in

SCCUL Café @ 1.00pm.

For ages 65 + - Please call to book your slot on 091 386004 or call into reception in SCCUL centre.

Pioneer Pledge for the month of the Holy Souls

A short-term pledge gives spiritual support and encouragement to people and their families who are living under a shadow of addiction. Further information from the Pioneers on 01 805 4226 or via www.pioneers.ie/pray

Theology Online Open Evening, is this for you? The Priory Institute provides online Theology courses to degree level.. email  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

 

 

 

MASS INTENTIONS

 

&

 

Saturday October 28th

 

5pm

 

Thomas McEnery and deceased members of the Coyne and McEnery families (A)

 

John Dooley (A)

 

Deceased members of the Stephens & Costello families (A)

Thomas Sweeney (A)

 

U

 

Sunday October 29th

 

10:30am

 

John Joe Egan (M.M.)

 

Micheal J. Barrett (R)

 

(Mikey)

 

U

 

Adoration of the

Blessed Sacrament

Wednesdays 7pm-8pm

 

U

 

Friday November 3rd

 

10am

 

&

 

Saturday November 4th

 

5pm

 

Micheal & Mary Kennedy (A)

 

U

 

Sunday November 5th

 

10:30am

 

John Folan (A)

 

 

Saturday October 28th

5pm

John Dooley (A)

U

Sunday October 29th

10:30am

John Joe Egan (M.M.)

Micheal J. Barrett (R)

(Mikey)

U

 

COMMUNITY NEWS

I am always thinking of the serious situation in Palestine and Israel.

I encourage the release of the hostages and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

I continue to pray for those suffering and hope for paths of peace in the Middle East and other regions wounded by war.

War cancels out the future.

I urge believers to take just one side in this conflict: that of peace.

But not with words,with prayer, with total dedication

- Pope Francis

Scripture Group  meet and reflect on the Sunday Gospel every Tuesday from 7:30pm to 8:30pm in Seomra Bríde.

All are welcome. For further information contact Frances on 087 6215865

The Good Shepherd Church invite you to catechesis where you may receive and experience the immense love of God,

Mondays and Wednesdays at 7:30pm in the Cumasu Centre, Doughiska (opposite Lidl)

 

Youth 2000 Gatherings in the Cathedral.

A weekly gathering of prayer, music and reflection, organised by Youth 2000, takes place in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel on Wednesday evenings at 7:00pm.

HARVEST DUES ENVELOPES ARE AVAILABLE AT THE BACK OF THE CHURCH

SCCUL ENTERPRISE Centre is running a Lunch Club every second Wednesday (starting November 8th) in SCCUL Café @ 1.00pm.

Costs €10 per person, per week and it includes a 2 course meal each (for all dietary types) , games, light entertainment and a good day out.

For ages 65 + - Please call to book your slot on 091 386004 or call into reception in SCCUL centre.

 

 

Mass is offered every morning in The Holy Family, Mervue at 9:30am