FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT, November 27, 2011

A Word in your Ear: First Sunday of Advent 2011
John Shea, the great Christian storyteller relates the following Advent reflection. When God was making the trees, he gave a gift to each species. But first he set up a contest to determine which gift would be most useful to whom. He told them, “I want you to stay awake and keep watch over the earth for seven nights”. The young trees were so excited to be trusted with such an important task that the first night they would have found it difficult not to stay awake. However the second night was not so easy, and just before dawn a few fell asleep. On the third night the trees whispered among themselves in an effort to keep from dropping off. Even so it proved too much for some of them. Still more fell asleep on the fourth night. By the time the seventh night came the only trees still awake were the cedar, the pine, the spruce, the fir, the holly and the laurel. “What wonderful endurance you have!” God exclaimed. “You shall be given the gift of remaining green forever. You will be the guardians of the forest. Even in the seeming dead of winter, your brother and sister trees will find life protected in your branches.” Ever since then all the trees and plants lose their leaves and sleep all winter, while the evergreens stay awake.
This story illustrates the two great themes of Advent: wakefulness in the midst of sleepiness and greenness in the midst of barrenness. In the evergreen trees we find a note of gentle but resolute defiance. The surrounding world may be asleep and barren, but these continue to bear witness. They are sustained not so much by their own determination but by the power of God. They show us what our role as Christians is. It is to be awake among the sleeping, to be green in the midst the barren. To bear witness to love in the midst of hate, to peace in the midst of conflict, and to light in the midst of darkness.
Fr. Martin


LEARNING ABOUT THE MASS WITH KATH AND QUMEN HOW DOES MASS BEGIN?
Mass usually begins with a song or hymn and if we know the song we should join in the singing. The words of the song might be on a hymn sheet or book on your seat. When this song begins we know that it is time to stand up. We stand to greet the priest who will lead us in prayer; in this way we are also greeting Jesus who is present among us.
The Opening Procession
Mass always begins with a procession. There are different kinds of processions. Sometimes there are lots of people; sometimes it is the priest on his own. The procession might come from the front door or from the sacristy. Usually the procession includes the priest and the servers. In some places the people who are going to read and help to give out communion will also be in the procession. You might see one of the readers carry the book from which the Gospel will be read. This book is called the Book of the Gospels.

Christmas Fair
This is the final reminder that our Christmas Fair in aid of the Parish hall takes place on Sun, Dec 4, at 1.30pm. We are appealing for your support by donating, homemade cakes, buns, fruit & veg, shrubs, bottles & toys, new or unused gift items, bric-a-brac. Bring the children as Santa will arrive during the afternoon. Refreshments will be on offer in the Supper Room. Tickets are now on sale.

PLEASE NOTE:
ONLY NOTICES RECEIVED WITH A CONTACT NAME & TELEPHONE NO WILL BE PRINTED IN THE GRAPEVINE

Mooncoin Senior & Juvenile GAA
club coaches, mentors, intending coaches & mentors are asked to attend an important presentation by Joe Carton, followed by an open forum on Wed, Nov 30, at 7.15pm in our club complex.

Hall Committee Meeting in the small room on Tues, Nov 29, at 7.30pm, in the Complex.

Bootcamp Fitness Classes
Commencing Fri, Dec 2, at 8pm in the Complex - €5 per class. Contact Peter for more info 086 2470429. Zumbatomic Dance Class for kids every Mon in the Complex 4pm (4 to 7yrs) 4.45pm (8 to 12yrs). Contact Rachel for more information on 083 1199020.

St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society
The monthly mass of St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place on Thurs, Dec 1, at 9.30am. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament for intercession for vocations will follow immediately afterwards in the Nagle Chapel and will conclude at 11am. All are welcome.

Mooncoin Juvenile Badminton Club would like to thank Michael & Alice Blanchfield (Centra) for allowing us to have a very successful bag pack recently. Thanks to all who contributed generously.

MARFAN SYNDROME RESEARCH
Table Quiz on Tues, Nov 29 at 9.15pm at The Showboat, Waterford. €20 for team of four. Enquiries to Geraldine at 087 7747710.

Sponsored Hill Climb
South Eastern Region Hospice Annual Sponsored Hill Climb up Slievenamon on St. Stephen’s Day 2011. Time 12pm. Money raised to date €67,100. Sponsor Cards from:
Kathleen Tobin 086 8493598;
Kevin Dunphy 087 7406354;
Alan Hearne 086 3671592;
Johnny Howley 087 3122410.

Thank You
Peggy Healy would like to thank all the people who sent Mass cards and good wishes to me for my operation during my stay in hospital. The holy sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Masses during the week
Each day Tues to Fri: 9.30am.
First Friday: The sick and house bound will be visited.
Mass: Kilnaspic, Thurs at 7.30pm
Mooncoin, Friday at 9.30am.
Carrigeen, Friday at 7.30pm.

I was overwhelmed by the generous response to my request for sponsorship of the three new Altar missals. I accepted the first three offers of support but to all the others who contacted me during the week I am also deeply grateful for your consideration. Fr. Martin.

CARRIGEEN
MINISTERS: Dec 4 (10am) Teresa O’Neill, Margaret Brennan.
READERS: Dec 4 (10am) Breda Walsh, Suzanne Halley.
ALTAR SOCIETY: Dec 3 - Margaret Kenny, Margaret Phelan (B).
Our annual collection for
flowers will be held on Sunday, Dec 4, at 10.00am Mass.
All donations appreciated.

KILNASPIC
MINISTER: Dec 3 - Helen Brennan.
READER: Dec 3 - Clare Walsh.
ALTAR SERVERS: Dec 3 - Ciaran & Eimear Quilty.

MONTH’S MIND
Edward (Buddy) Dunne, Ballygriffin.

ANNIVERSARIES
Peter & Margaret Walsh, Luffany.;
Tom Foskin, Riverquarter; Michael O’Brien, Polerone;
Matthew & Catherine Byrne, St. Anne’s Terrace;
Robert & Hannah Dunne. Thomas & Phyllis Dunne.
Vincent Moloney; James Quilty, Nicholastown;
Bridget (Biddy) Stephens, Chapel St;
Johanna Carroll, Ballybrazil;
Eily Allen, Carrick Road; Kathleen Quirke, Suir Crescent.;
Peter & Margaret Walsh, Luffany;
Michael Asper & Family, Ashgrove;
Statia Robinson, Lower Corluddy, & Maidstone.
May they Rest in Peace.

OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, UNIVERSAL KING, November 20, 2011

A Word in your Ear: The Bell is coming to Mooncoin!
As you know the 50th International Eucharistic Congress is being held in Dublin from June 10 - 17, 2012. One of the symbols of the congress is the Eucharistic Congress Bell. Since March 2011 the Congress Bell has been on pilgrimage through the various dioceses around Ireland. This pilgrimage of the bell is part of the preparation programme for the congress itself. The Congress Bell is coming to the Diocese of Ossory in January 2012 for ten days. The bell will be coming to Ossory from Waterford and so it has been decided that the first parish in our diocese to receive the bell will be Mooncoin. The bell will be with us for the afternoon of Sunday, January 8. Further details of this event will be announced in due course but please put this date in your diary as I hope that every family in the parish will participate in this unique occasion.
The significance of the bell as a symbol
The pilgrim journey of the Eucharistic Congress Bell is an opportunity for communities to come together drawn by the sound or the peal of the pilgrim Bell. Since antiquity the sound of a pealing bell has been a recognised means of communication, at times a warning that urges people to flee from pending danger and at other times inviting people to a communal gathering to receive news or perhaps to celebrate. A bell is a symbol that is both visible and audible. For Christians the bell has long been associated with the invitation to gather, the sound being perceived as God’s voice, God’s call, which draws people to assemble. For early Christian Ireland the sound of the bell of St. Patrick and other great saints across the land heralded the dawn of a new and eternal day for the Irish people - called to hear the good news - Jesus Christ, the Word made Flesh - and in turn become bearers of this news to others, far and near. The origin of the Diocese of Ossory is also linked to the ringing of a bell. Tradition has it that St. Kieran was given a bell by St. Patrick and he was told that wherever the bell would ring was to be the site of his monastery. The bell rang out in Saighir, Co. Offaly, known today as Seir Kieran. The image of the bell, associated today with Christmas and wedding cards, is still used to convey joy, celebration and the announcement of good news. Combined, the image and sound of the bell symbolise for us God’s call to all people to gather to hear good news.
Fr. Martin


LEARNING ABOUT THE MASS WITH KATH AND QUMEN
ARRIVING IN THE CHURCH
Usually when we come into God’s house we bow our heads or go down on one knee. This is called ‘genuflection’. It shows respect and love for Jesus. We genuflect or bow in front of the tabernacle, the special place where Jesus is present at all times. The tabernacle may be behind the altar or to one side of it. There will be a red light near the tabernacle, called the Sanctuary Lamp. This light tells us that Jesus, the Blessed Sacrament, is present inside. The Blessed Sacrament is another name for Jesus.

Fashion Event & Christmas Fair
In aid of Carrigeen Pre School on December 9. Venue: Cellar Bar, Carrigeen at 8.30pm. Admission €5. Tickets available. Contact Valerie on 086 - 3853706.

CHRISTMAS FAIR
In Ferrybank Community Centre on Sunday, November 27 at 2pm in aid of Spring Garden Workshop.

Piltown National School Craft & Food Fair Sun Nov 20 11am – 5pm. Lots of crafts including ceramics, jewellery, fashion accessories, Christmas decorations and lots more. Proceeds in aid of Piltown National School. Adm. Free.

Mooncoin G.A.A. Social Committee
Card game at the Complex on Fri. Nov. 25 commencing at 9pm. 1st Entry €10, Re-entry €5. Team of 3. All proceeds to local St. Vincent de Paul. Refreshments served.

Mooncoin G.A.A. Gym
Gym induction will take place on Wedns Nov 23 at 7.15pm. Flexible payment methods available for gym membership fees. For enquiries contact 051-895435 (Mobile: 087 1212408) or 086 1553968.

SILVER CIRCLE - WEEK 6
€200: Barry Purcell, Middlequarter. €100: Neddy Aldridge, Mullinavat. €50: Breda Holden, Convent View. €20: Sinead Walsh, Mooncoin Heights. Anna Butler, Knockhouse. Sam Dunphy, Ballincur. Sinead Quinn, Polerone Green. Karen Purcell, Mullinavat. Nicola Fewer, Roseleigh. Helen Wallace, Carrick Road. Martin Howley, Main St. Bernie Holden, Ballinlough. Eamonn Mackey, Clonmore. Cormac O’Shea, Portnahully. Kit O’Keeffe, Polerone. Paddy Daly, Dungooley. Hannah Ryan, Ballygorey. Sr. Gertrude Flynn, Convent. Kitty Delahunty, Portnahully. Eddie Tobin, Ballymountain. Eimear Grant, Slieverue. Danny Purcell, Polerone. Breda Guthrie, Luffany.

Presentation Associates
A special talk will be given by Chris Mulcahy, who represented us at the international gathering of Associates and Friends of Nano Nagle, in The Nagle Chapel, Presentation Convent, on Saturday Nov 20 from 11am to 12.15pm. Tea served. All are welcome.

South Kilkenny Historical Society
Next lecture will be held on Thursday, November 24 in Mullinavat Parish Hall at 8pm. The speaker is Muiris O'Sulleabhain, Associate Professor, School of Archaeology, U.C.D. and the subject is "Knockroe Passage Tomb and the mysterious Stone Age of South Kilkenny". Adm. €5 (members free).

Masses during the week
Tues. Weds. & Fri. - 9.30am
Tuesday: 2.30pm - Mooncoin Residential Care Centre.
Wednesday: 3pm - Day Care Centre Healing Mass in Parochial Hall
Thurs: 7.30pm - Mass for the Deceased.

Mass for the Deceased on Thurs Nov 24 at 7.30pm for all the deceased of the parish and especially for all those who died during the year.
Mooncoin Residential Care Centre. Mass for all the families of people who have died during the year on Tues Nov 22 at 2.30pm.
Day Care Centre Healing Mass Wedns Nov 23 at 3pm in the Parochial Hall. All are welcome.
Memorial Event for families and friends bereaved by suicide or some traumatic event. Venue: Christ Church Cathedral, Waterford, on Sun Nov 27 at 3pm - 5pm. Prayer Service followed by refreshments. All welcome.

WELCOME
We welcome into our Faith Community the following who were baptised recently.
Cara Elizabeth Brennan
Grace Catherine O’Keeffe
Derek Patrick Kennedy

S.V.P.
Conference meeting Tuesday, November 22 at 8pm.
Nov. Collection Weekend 26/27.
Christmas Collection Dec. 10/11.

Due to recent changes in the responses and prayers at Mass we have had to purchase 3 new Altar Missals at a cost of €250 each. If any family, or individual would like to sponsor a Missal, please contact Fr. Martin Delaney on 086 2444594.

MOONCOIN
READERS: Nov 26/Dec 3 (6.30pm) Roisin Crowley, Sr Mary Lenehan. Nov 27/Dec 4 (11.15am) Ailish Conneely, Marjorie Godinho.
CLEANERS: Nov 26/Dec 3 Nellie Phelan, Angela Haley, Kathleen O’Brien, Kathleen Mackey, Kitty Grant.

CARRIGEEN
READERS: Nov 27 (10am) Ronan & Una Walsh.
ALTAR SOCIETY: Nov 26 - Ann Grant & Mary Fewer.

KILNASPIC
MINISTER: Nov 26 - Mary Frisby.
READER: Nov 26 - Tom Reddy.
ALTAR SERVERS: Nov 26 - Kate Kearns & Tara Ramaswamy.
CLEANERS: Nov 26/Dec 3 - M Gilmartin & M Rochford.

SYMPATHY
We commend to your generous prayers, Michael (Toby) Power, Ballygorey & England, who died recently. May he Rest in Peace.

ANNIVERSARIES
Leo Walsh, Aglish.
Johanna Dunne, Skelpstown.
Noreen Lane, Emil.
Breda & Phil Radick,
Chapel View & Wembley.
Catherine Sutton, Narabane.
Ellen Keane, Ballytarsney.
Joe Moran, Ballybrazil.
Dick Dunphy, Carrigeen.
Edward Dunphy, Luffany.
Gerard Cody, Clonmore.
May they Rest in Peace.

33rd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, November 13, 2011

CHRISTMAS FAIR IN MOONCOIN
It’s that time of year again. The Christmas Fair will be held in the Parish Hall on Sunday, December 4 starting at 1.30pm. All the usual stalls will be there. To help us, we are appealing for your support by arranging: Homemade Cakes, Buns, Fruit, Veg, Shrubs, Bottles & Toys, New or Unused Gift Items, Bric-a-Brac. Again last year we were saved the cost of a skip, as the items donated were all of reliable quality. The proceeds of the Christmas Fair go towards the upkeep of the Parish Hall. During the year a new ramp has been installed at the front door, a completely new stage has been built, timber around the perimeter of the floor has been replaced with new wood and new flooring has been laid in the Supper Room and kitchen. In addition, non-slip floors have been installed where it was deemed necessary.
Your support and generosity makes this possible. During the month of November tickets are also on sale for the needs of the Hall. This year the prizes include 32” Flat Screen TV and or Toshiba Laptop, amongst the other great prizes. We ask you to support this effort by buying tickets, asking €2 for 1, or €5 for a book of 3.
It would be impossible to update the hall without your continued generosity and support. Thank you all very much.

LEARNING ABOUT THE MASS WITH KATH AND QUMEN
PREPARING THE CHURCH FOR MASS
The sacristan is a very important person in church. He, or she opens and closes the building, makes sure that it is warm and welcoming, prepares the altar, lights the candles, puts out the necessary books and things needed for the Mass and makes sure that there are enough candles, wine and altar breads for Mass. In most parishes there are people who look after The cleaning of the church. They also make sure that there are flowers to decorate the altar. They may put up the crib at Christmas and decorate the church building for special occasions.

MIXED CIRCUIT CLASSES
Open to both Men & Women. Boost Fitness/Tone Muscles/Lose Weight/Increase Strength. Every Tuesday at 8.00pm in GAA Complex. To book a place or for more info text Peter at 086-2470429

Kilkenny Community Forum in conjunction with the Federation of Community Groups will hold the Piltown Electoral Area meeting in Piltown Community Centre on Monday 14th November 2011 at 8p.m. The meeting will be chaired by Fr. Nicholas Flavin Chairperson of the Community and Voluntary Forum. A discussion will take place on the Development of the South and also on Insurance for Community Groups. All Community Groups are welcome to attend.

MASSES DURING THE WEEK
Tuesday - Fri: 9.30am.

WATERFORD INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY ASSOCIATION
Collection next weekend November 19/20.

CARRIGEEN CHURCH CHOIR
Choir practice in Carrigeen Church on Monday nights at 7.30pm. We are now preparing for Advent and Christmas. New musicians and singers are all welcome to join us. See you there.

HALL COMMITTEE MEETING
Will be held in the Supper Room on Thursday, Nov 17, at 7.30pm.

WELCOME
We welcome into our Faith Community the following who were baptised recently.
Caden Gerard Kirwan;
Alice Audrey Fitzpatrick;
Liam Joseph Kearney.

SVP
Our November collection is changed to Nov 26/27.

HOSPITAL VISITS
If anybody has any family members or knows of anyone in hospital who would like a visit from the priest, please contact the Parish Office and arrangements can be made.

SCRIPTURE STUDY
Group meeting in Nagle Chapel, 8.00pm – 9.00pm Wednesday, November 16. All welcome. Contact Sr. Mary on 895114

CARRIGEEN
READERS: Nov 20 (10am) Ellie Hogan, Eilish Walsh.
ALTAR SOCIETY: Nov 19 - Teresa Comerford, Joan Dunphy.

KILNASPIC
MINISTER: Nov 19 - May Coady.
READER: Nov 19 - Marjorie Godinho.
SERVERS: Nov 19 - Andrew Long.

SYMPATHY
We commend to your generous prayers,
the following who died recently.
Annie Duggan, Cloncunny, and Paddy O’Keeffe, Ballycallan, Co. Kilkenny, & formerly of Corluddy, Carrigeen
May they Rest in Peace.

ANNIVERSARIES
Canon Francis Grace.
Mary Atkins, Comeragh View. John Fripps, Grange.
Sr. Laure Corcoran, Cussana. Pat Corcoran, Luffany.
John Hewetson, Ballymountain.
Michael & Ellen Walsh, Luffany Cross.
May they Rest in Peace.

32nd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, November 06, 2011

A WORD IN YOUR EAR
During this month of November the Word in your ear slot will include a series of thoughts and reflections some of which are taken from a beautiful book entitled; Irish stories of loss and hope. This book is published by the Irish Hospice Foundation and edited by Susan Delaney (no relation!). This first reflection is a beautiful poem by Seamus Heaney.
Fr. Martin
Mid-Term Break

I sat all morning in the college sick bay
Counting bells knelling classes to a close.
At two o'clock our neighbours drove me home.
In the porch I met my father crying -
He had always taken funerals in his stride -
And Big Jim Evans saying it was a hard blow.

The baby cooed and laughed and rocked the pram
When I came in, and I was embarrassed
By old men standing up to shake my hand
And tell me they were "sorry for my trouble,"

Whispers informed strangers I was the eldest,
Away at school, as my mother held my hand
In hers and coughed out angry tearless sighs.
At ten o'clock the ambulance arrived
With the corpse, stanched and bandaged by the nurses.

Next morning I went up into the room. Snowdrops
And candles soothed the bedside; I saw him
For the first time in six weeks. Paler now,
Wearing a poppy bruise on his left temple,
He lay in the four foot box as in his cot.
No gaudy scars, the bumper knocked him clear.

A four foot box, a foot for every year

LEARNING ABOUT THE MASS WITH KATH AND QUMEN
WHO DOES WHAT AT MASS (2)?
At every Mass you will notice that some members of the assembly have different jobs. We call these jobs ‘ministries’. Let’s look at some more of them:
THE COLLECTORS: The people who collect our gift of money during Mass.
THE MINISTER OF THE EUCHARIST: The person who helps to give out communion at Mass. They sometimes bring communion to those who are unable to come to Mass because they are sick.
MUSIC: Many parishes have choirs – groups of people who sing at Mass. Their singing helps the whole assembly to pray and we are all encouraged to join with the choir. Some parishes may have people who lead the assembly in singing. These are called cantors.

SILVER CIRCLE - WEEK 4
€200: Anna Butler, Knockhouse. €100: Patricia Conway, Rathkirby. €50: Eily Delahunty, Ballybrazil. €20: Elsie McGrath, Dournane. Pat Purcell, Dublin. Tony Walsh, Licketstown. Eamonn Delahunty, Luffany. John Foran, Piltown. Jody Laffan, Aglish. Peadar Walsh, Luffany. The Lotto Club, c/o Promoter. Alan Walsh, Ballinlough. Michael Purcell, Middlequarter. Anna Dunphy, Tubbrid. Michael Foran, Ardera. Sinead Walsh, Mooncoin Heights. Kathleen Skeehan, Corloughan. Una Foley, Main St. Valerie O’Keeffe, Ballybrazil. Angela Haley, Polerone. Theresa Dungan, Mullinavat. Willie O’Brien, Grange. Joe Wall, Lr Corluddy.

CARRIGEEN G.A.A
Results of Development Draw
1st 42” Colour TV Caroline Halpin, 1 Coirceog, Fiddown.
2nd Digital Camera Clara Dunphy, Ballincur.
3rd Meal for 2 The Granville Hotel Kevin Dunphy, Ballincur.
4th €50 cash Jenny Croke, Mountneill, Carrigeen.
5th Deep Fat Fryer Breda Comerford, Clogga.
6th €25 One for All voucher Willie Roche, Old Luffany.
7th €25 One for All voucher Debbie c/o Jim Brown, Kilcraggan.
8th Car Maintenance Kit Ned Doyle, Aglish, Carrigeen.
9th €25 cash John Heffernan, Mountneill, Carrigeen
10th €25 cash Patricia O’Neill, Corluddy, Carrigeen
The committee would like to thank all who supported and helped in any way with the draw.

Masses during the week
Tuesday - Thurs: 9.30am.

S.V.P.
Conference meeting on Tuesday, November 8 at 8pm
November collection 19/20.
Christmas collection Dec.10/11.

Carrigeen Church Choir
Choir practice in Carrigeen Church on Monday nights commencing Monday, November 7 at 7.30pm. We are now preparing for Advent and Christmas. New musicians and singers are all welcome to join us. See you there.

COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND FOR THE MISSIONS

IRISH HEART FOUNDATION ANNUAL CHURCH GATE COLLECTION TAKES PLACE NEXT WEEKEND NOV 12/13

Pioneers
Anyone that is due for Silver or Gold Pioneers Pins & Fr. Cullen medals, please ring as soon as possible 895483.

S.O.S. Collection held recently. €612 raised. Thanks to all who contributed.

Thank You
Thank you to everyone who gave sponsorship to Tomás Kinsella, Clogga, and Davy Dobbyn, Suir Crescent, who took part in the Run for Life in aid of the Solas Centre, Waterford. Between them, they raised €587. Well done lads.

MOONCOIN
MINISTERS: Nov 12/19 (6.30pm) Cara O’Mahony, Geraldine Purcell. Nov 13/20 (11.15am) Martina Maloney, Nellie Phelan.
CLEANERS: Nov 12/19 - Ena Laffan, Joan Doran, Catherine Doran, Therese Walsh, Joan Foskin.

CARRIGEEN
MINISTERS: Nov 13 (10am) Dick Madden, Teresa O’Neill.
READERS: Nov 13 (10am) Pat & Siobhan Dunphy.
ALTAR SOCIETY: Nov 12 - Ann Finn & Breda Guthrie.

KILNASPIC
MINISTER: Nov 12 - Richard Hogan.
READER: Nov 12 - Helen Quinn.
CLEANERS: Nov 12 - H Brennan & C Dunphy.
ALTAR SERVERS: Nov 12 - Ciaran & Eimear Quilty.

ANNIVERSARIES
Peter Rowley, Ballybrazil. Jimmy Walsh, Ballincur
Elizabeth & James Reid, Ballincur.
Patrick Walsh, Knockanure. James & Mary Walsh, Corluddy.
Michael & Joey Fielding, Portnascully.
Mark & Annie Grant, Carrigeen.
Margaret Fielding, Carrigeen.
May they Rest in Peace.

301st SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, October 30, 2011

A WORD IN YOUR EAR
HALLOWEEN – ALL SAINTS – ALL SOULS
When you think of Halloween, what comes to mind? For a lot of people, Halloween has become synonymous with sweets, bracks, costumes, scary stuff, witches, ghosts and pumpkins. But do you know the Christian connection to the holiday?
The true origins of Halloween lie with the ancient Celtic tribes who lived in Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Brittany. For the Celts, November 1 marked the beginning of a new year and the coming of winter. The night before the new year, they celebrated the festival of Samhain, Lord of the Dead. During this festival, Celts believed the souls of the dead including ghosts, goblins and witches returned to mingle with the living. In order to scare away the evil spirits, people would wear masks and light bonfires.
When the Romans conquered the Celts, they added their own touches to the Samhain festival, such as making centerpieces out of apples and nuts for Pomona, the Roman goddess of the orchards. The Romans also bobbed for apples and drank cider traditions which may sound familiar to you. But where does the Christian aspect of the holiday come into play? In 835, Pope Gregory IV moved the celebration for all the martyrs (later all saints) from May 13 to November 1. The night before became known as All Hallows Even, or holy evening. Eventually the name was shortened to the current Halloween. On November 2, the Church celebrates All Souls Day.
The purpose of these feasts is to remember those who have died, whether they are officially recognized by the Church as saints or not. It is a celebration of the communion of saints which reminds us that the Church is not bound by space or time.
Fr. Martin

LEARNING ABOUT THE MASS WITH KATH AND QUMEN
WHO DOES WHAT AT MASS (1)?
At every Mass you will notice that some members of the assembly have different jobs. We call these jobs ‘ministries’. Let’s look at some of them:
THE PRIEST: At Mass the priest leads us and encourages us to play our part in the celebration. How does he do this? He:
• Leads us in prayer
• Invites us to listen to God’s word
• Helps us to understand and make sense
of the Word of God in our daily lives through his homily
• Takes our gifts, the bread and wine, offers them to God and prays that by the power of the Holy
Spirit they will become the body and blood of Jesus Christ.
THE SERVERS: Servers are normally boys and girls who have received their First Communion. Their job is to help the priest during Mass. They can carry books, bring water and wine, wash the priest’s hands and ring bells.
MINISTER OF THE WORD: Even though we sometimes call this person the reader, the proper name is ‘Minister of the Word’. The readings of Mass come from the Bible. They are the Word of God and so we can say that we hear God speaking to us through the voice of the Minister of the Word.

Marfan Syndrome Research & Cardiac Surgery in Ireland
Friday, November 4, Kilmacow Community Centre at 7.30pm: Professor Mark Redmond and Doctors Jonathan McGuinness, John Byrne and Darren McLaughlin will give a presentation on Marfan Syndrome Research and Cardiac Surgery in Ireland. Prof Redmond is a renowned cardio thoracic surgeon in The Mater Hospital, Beacon Hospital & Crumlin Children’s Hospital. Dr Jonathan McGuinness is a cardio thoracic surgeon at the Mater Hospital. Dr’s John Byrne & Darren McLaughlin are closely involved with Prof Redmond in Marfan research. This promises to be an interesting and informative presentation. Light refreshments will be served. All are welcome. This evening is hosted by The Marfans Research Foundation, Kilmacow.

South Kilkenny Historical Society
Next lecture will be held on Thurs Nov 3 at 8pm in the Parochial Hall, Mullinavat. The title of the lecture is “Margar Aylward: a controversial and courageous woman with a mission” and it will be given by Dr. Jacinta Prunty, a Holy Faith sister and senior lecturer in the Department of History, National University of Ireland. Admission fee €5 to non-members.

MASSES
DURING THE WEEK
Weds/Thurs: 9.30am - Mooncoin.
Monday, 31st: 7.30pm - Kilnaspic
Tuesday, 1st: 10am - Carrigeen
Tuesday 1st: 11.15am - Mooncoin
Friday the First Friday - The sick
and house bound will be visited
Mass:
Thursday: 7.30pm - Kilnaspic
Friday: 9.30am - Mooncoin
Friday: 7.30pm - Carrigeen

ST. JOSEPH’S YOUNG PRIESTS SOCIETY
The monthly Mass of St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will take place on Thursday, November 3 at 9.30am in Mooncoin. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament for intercession for vocations will follow immediately afterwards in the Nagle Chapel and will conclude at 11am. All are welcome.

M.D.A.P.P. Drug and Alcohol Awareness Programme will not be held next Monday night October 31 due to the bank holiday. It will resume again on November 7 at 8pm and will run for the next 6 weeks in the Boys’ School.

Mooncoin Residential Care Centre would like to thank all those who very kindly contributed to recent collections for Age Action Ireland as part of Positive Aging Week & the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland.

Thank You
All the staff at “Cloud Nine Hair & Beauty” would like to give a big thanks to Michael & Alice Blanchfield for sponsoring our “Pink Party” and to everybody that made the night a great success. We made a wonderful €1,172.

TABLE QUIZ
The Parent’s Association of Coláiste Cois Siuire are holding a Fund Raising Table Quiz in Comerford’s Lounge on Friday, November 11 at 8.30pm. Table of 4 is €20. Lots of prizes to be won. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

CARRIGEEN
MINISTERS: Nov 6 (10am) Bill & Peggy Healy.
READERS: Nov 6 (10am) Frances Dunphy, Eileen Dowling.
ALTAR SOCIETY: Nov 5 - Judy Doherty, Margo Delahunty.

KILNASPIC
MINISTER: Nov 5 - Jason Dunphy.
READER: Nov 5 - Padraigh Kirwin.
SERVERS: Nov 5 - Kate Kearns, Tara Ramaswamy.

ANNIVERSARIES
John Phelan, Portnahully, Carrigeen;
Kathleen Kelly, Ballygorey;
Bernadette O’Doherty, Carrick on Suir;
Michael Lannon, Ballinlough;
Joseph O’Keeffe, Filbuckstown;
Billy & Molly Walsh, Emil;
Marie Reville, 31 Suir Crescent;
Richard & Eileen Wilson, Portlaw.
May they Rest in Peace.

MISSION SUNDAY, October 23, 2011

A Word In Your Ear: MISSION SUNDAY
Today is Mission Sunday and we unite on this special day with all Churches worldwide, “together in faith”, to celebrate our faith and the spreading of God’s love to far distant missionary lands. Let us individually and as a community assist the missions by prayer and financial help so that they may continue their tremendous work of bringing people to Jesus. (Today’s Gospel)
The 1,762 Irish missionaries across the globe greatly appreciate your loyalty and support to their work in the spreading of the Good News, God’s word, to all corners of the world. Mooncoin parish has given more than its fair share of missionaries over the years and on this special day they unite with us spiritually.
Those involved in the Missionary work of the church appreciate that in these very difficult economic times there are many pressures on our personal finances and ask you to please give as generously as you can. A little goes a long way – universally it will make a difference to World Missions.
May we all enjoy and share the comfort of God’s Word!
Fr. Martin

LEARNING ABOUT THE MASS WITH KATH AND QUMEN
WHAT DO WE DO AT MASS?
There is a special name for all the people gathered together for Mass. They are called the Assembly. Everyone in the Assembly helps to make the Mass a celebration of God’s love for us by:
• Joining in the prayers
• Standing, kneeling and sitting at the right times
• Singing
• Listening carefully
• Offering our gifts to be shared
• Coming to the table to receive communion or a blessing.
In other words, we are all part of the action! In Church language this is called ‘full, active and conscious participation’.

YOUTH 2000 RETREAT - WATERFORD CITY
Youth 2000 will be hosting a youth retreat in De La Salle College, Waterford, November 4/6. This is a donation only event for people aged 16 – 35 years, with newcomers very welcome. The weekend will consist of a programme covering youth Masses, talks, music etc. Residential – so please bring a sleeping bag!  For more information contact John - 086 3301766, or check out www.youth2000.ie.  Please book online, under 18’s please download booking form and bring to retreat.

SILVER CIRCLE - WEEK 2
€200: Frances Bradshaw, Main Street. €100: J.J. Comerford, Main Street.
€50: Orla Brennan, Ashgrove. €20: Caroline Dunphy, Tubrid; Paddy Delahunty, Old Luffany; Brigid McGrath, Polerone; Kitty O’Keeffe, Pollrone; Stephen Foran, St. Anne’s Tce; Marion Fripps, Grange; Mavis Foley, Kilmacow; Eoin Doyle, Ashgrove; Leslie Allen, Raheen; Nicola Kinsella, Dournane; Tom Grant, The Pound; Billy McNamara, Mooncoin Heights; John Joe Kinsella, Dournane; Michael Blanchfield, Main St.; Ann Croke, Chapel St; Noel Dobbyn, Suir Crescent; Teresa Dungan, Mullinavat; Mary Flynn, Mooncoin Heights; Edward Phelan, Ballintarsney; Stephen O’Brien, Chapel St.

ART CAMP - GlenRua Art will be holding a fun three day Halloween Camp for children in the Old Vocational School, Slieverue, from Tuesday, November 1 to Thursday, November 3.  Bookings and Enquiries please contact Annette Duggan at 086 8514545, or Yvette Brennan at 086 8550221.

MASSES DURING THE WEEK
Tuesday - Friday: 9.30am.

WELCOME
We welcome into our Faith Community, Ethan David Frazer, who was baptized recently.

WEDDING BELLS
Congratulations and best wishes to Michael Frisby Clogga and Emily Hargadon Glenageary, Co. Dublin, who were married recently.

APOSTOLIC SOCIETY
Meeting in the Convent on Thurs. Oct 27 at 7.30pm. Our annual collection takes place on Oct 29/30 at all churches.

Irish Kidney Association
Wish to thank sincerely all those who contributed to the recent Church Gate Collection, €566.46 in Mooncoin, Carrigeen and Kilnaspic.

TWINNING ASSOCIATION AGM
Mooncoin Plounvevez Lochrist Twinning Association will hold its Annual General Meeting in Comerford’s small lounge on Tuesday, October 25 at 8pm. The meeting is open to anyone living locally with an interest in twinning and all who were on our recent trip to Britanny.

MOONCOIN
READERS: Oct 29/Nov 5 (11.15am) Triona O’Keeffe, Lucy Quinn. Oct 30/Nov 6 Mary Grace, Margaret Hayes.
CLEANERS: Oct 29/Nov 5 Rene Comerford, Alice Conway, Elizabeth Lennon, Noreen Holden.

CARRIGEEN
MINISTERS: Oct 30 (10am) Mary Murphy, Eileen Williams.
ALTAR SOCIETY: Oct 29 - Margaret Phelan (L), Margaret Dunphy.

KILNASPIC
MINISTER: Oct 29 - Katherine Hogan.
READER: Oct 29 - Aiden Quilty.
ALTAR SERVER: Oct 29 - Andrew Long.
CLEANERS: Oct 29/Nov 5 - M Fahy, A Walsh.

MONTH’S MIND
John Purcell, Rathkieran & Blackpool.

ANNIVERSARIES
Maggie Dunne, Carrick Road.
Paddy Holden, Carrick Road.
John & Patrick Wall, Mooncoin.
James Fogarty, Ballinamorahan, Kilmacow.
Maguire Family, Ardera.
Michael Jacob, Luffany.
Michael & Mary Carroll, Dungooley.
Walter (Watty) Hogan, The Mill.
Frances Walsh, Graigavine, Cloncunny.
Margaret Hogan (nee Cody), Ballymacarbry & Kilnaspic.
May they Rest in Peace.

29th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, October 16, 2011

LEARNING ABOUT THE MASS WITH KATH AND QUMEN
WHY GO TO MASS?
When you were baptised you became a member of God’s family and we call that the Church. You might think the church is just a building but the Church is also the name we give to the people who gather in the building. Without the people, the Church would be just another building. One of the most important things we do as part of God’s family is go to Mass.

A WORD IN YOUR EAR
This weekend we begin the formal preparation with the children who will celebrate their First Communion next May. The programme will involve a Mass once a month (Saturday evening in Mooncoin and Sunday morning in Carrigeen). These will be the regular Sunday Masses, but with a real awareness that children are present. The readings and some prayers will be simplified and the homily will (hopefully!) be directed to the children, or even through the children to everyone else! This weekend the homily at the 6.30pm and 10am Masses will be replaced by the enrolment ceremony.
Each week we will publish a little insert in The Grapevine entitled Learning about the Mass with Kath and Qumen . Kath and Qumen are two children preparing for their First Communion and they feature in the book which our children have called THUMB. The names Kath and Qumen are a play on the word ‘cathecumen’. A cathecumen is strictly understood as someone preparing for Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. We are taking some liturgical and catechetical licence here, because our First Communion candidates have already been baptised. They are, however, being prepared for the next important step on their journey of initiation. Speaking of initiation we heard this week that Confirmation will be celebrated here in the parish on Sunday, February 26, 2012.
Fr. Martin

MOONCOIN G.A.A.
Mooncoin GAA will hold a meeting to discuss the future direction of hurling within the club on Friday, Oct 21 at 8.30pm in the Complex. All members are requested to attend this important meeting.

MOONCOIN G.A.A. GYM
The next induction course will take place at 7.00pm on Wednesday, October 19, for any new member wishing to join the gym. For queries, contact Joe Flynn, 895435, or 087- 1212408, or Joan Daly 086-1553968.

Kilkenny County Drugs Committee would like to thank the students and staff of Colaiste Cois Siuire Mooncoin for hosting a drug awareness event for Drug Awareness Week 2011 and they also held a debate on the availability of alcohol and its effects. Well done to all.

MASSES DURING THE WEEK
Tuesday, Wendesday: 9.30am.
Eucharistic Service: Thursday, Friday: 9.30am

WELCOME
We welcome into our Faith Community, Aisling Carmel Croke, who was baptized recently.

CHILDREN’S CHOIR
Practice for the Children’s Choir resumes this Tuesday, October 18 in the Parish Church from 3.10pm to 4pm. Children from 2nd class upwards. €1 per child/family.

THANK YOU
RehabCare Kilkenny would like to thank all the people of the Parish for their contribution of €627.25, it being the proceeds of the recent Church Gate Collection and Rehab would also like to thank those who organised the collection on our behalf.
Your support is greatly appreciated.

CARRIGEEN
MINISTERS: Oct 23 (10am) P.J. O’Leary, Noreen Walsh.
ALTAR SOCIETY: Oct 22 - Bridget Phelan, Kitty Hewetson.

KILNASPIC
MINISTER: Oct 22 - Helen Brennan.
READER: Oct 22 - Sarah Norris.
ALTAR SERVERS: Oct 22 - Ciaran & Eimear Quilty.

ANNIVERSARIES
Noreen O’Brien, Comeragh View.
Catherine O’Keeffe, Polerone.
Michael Lannon, Ballinlough.
Kitty Holden, St. Annes Terrace.
Michael Walsh, Filbuckstown.
Anna McGrath, Dungooley.
Anastasia Cuddihy, Luffany.
Margaret O’Keeffe, Glengrant.
Kay English, Barrabehy & Liverpool.
John Crowley, Barrabehy.
May they Rest in Peace.