A message from Fr John

Dear Friends

Good morning

As you know, we will be opening the three churches for Mass this coming weekend. We will also open for Mass during the week.

Mass times for next week and the week after:
Monday: 6.00pm Zoom
Tuesday: 10.00am OLLM
Wednesday: 10.00am SE
Thursday: 6.00pm CTK
Friday: 6.00pm Zoom

Unlike previously, we won’t open yet for quiet prayer; I don’t want to put too much pressure on our volunteer stewards. When the time is right we will gradually open for prayer and adoration.

It will soon be Holy Week, of course, and we will have a different schedule but I’m waiting for further guidance and discussion about how best to manage those very special days. All our celebrations will still have to follow government guidance on social distancing, cleaning and unfortunately no congregational singing.

We pray to keep ourselves and each other safe - and on which point ….
A prayer for those who wear masks

Lord,as I prepare to go into the world, help me to see the sacrament

in the wearing of this cloth-

let it be “an outward sign of an inward grace”-

a tangible and visible way

of living love for my neighbours as I love myself.

Jesus, since my lips will be covered, uncover my heart,

That people would see my smile In the crinkles around my eyes.

Since my voice may be muffled, help me to speak clearly,

Not only with my words, but with my actions.

Holy Spirit,as the elastic touches my ears,

Remind me to listen carefully - and full of care -

To all those I meet.

May this simple piece of cloth be shield and banner,

And each breath that it holds, be filled with your love.

In your Name, and in that love,

I pray. Amen

And now - a few adverts

Fr James Martin, an American Jesuit who is a great supporter of Pope Francis, has just written a book entitled Learning to Pray: a Guide for Everyone. It is a very readable book, which deals with the struggles we all have when it comes to prayer. It is highly recommended

Discernment weekend for men aged 30 to 55
The Beda College in Rome is running a discernment weekend for men between the ages of 30 and 55 from Friday 3 September to Sunday 5 September 2021. It takes place at St Beuno’s Spirituality Centre in North Wales.
The weekend is to reach men who are not already in touch with their diocese and is a first step for those who may be exploring the possibility of priestly vocation in later life.
Information and registration forms are at: https://www.pathwaystogod.org/courses-events-retreats/discernment-weekend-older-men-1

North Mayo Heritage Centre - Genealogy
Genealogy: Do you have ancestors or relatives with Mayo connections? If you would like to find out more about your Mayo roots, the North Mayo Heritage Centre can help. Contact 00 353 9631809, write to us at Enniscoe, Castlehill, Ballina, Co.Mayo, F26FR94 or email northmayo@gmail.com.

St Joseph, pray for us

Every blessing

Fr John