The St Genesius Blog

From Tulsa to Stamullen

2012-01-23T20:47:00.001Z

A new community of monks, under the Rule of St Benedict will, please God, relocate to Stamullen in Co. Meath in the near future. They will be moving into the the former Visitation Monastery in Stamullen, (the sisters have recently relocated to Drogheda).

The Monastery of Our Lady of the Cenacle is a community of men dedicated to the traditional monastic life according to the Rule of Saint Benedict, and to intercession for the sanctification of priests, in adoration and reparation before the Eucharistic Face of Christ.

To find out more about the monks from the Monastery of Our Lady of the Cenacle, visit their website cenacleosb.org, and download their first news letter, which provides plenty of information on their future plans.

Links

www.cenacleosb.org.

On twitter @cenacleosb.

Father Prior’s blog Vultus Christi, is at vultus.stblogs.org

St Genesius Film Society present "Chariots of Fire"

2012-01-17T14:23:00.000Z

7pm on Tuesday 17th January

Knights of Colombanus Centre,

Ely Place,

Dublin 2

Film and Discussion.

Refreshments available.

All Welcome

Come along and bring a friend or six!

The devious Meccano plan....

2012-01-16T19:44:00.000Z

It is essential for a mother to assist her children in the writing their Christmas lists!

It's Friday...

2012-01-13T18:12:00.005Z

The homilies of a hermit

2012-01-11T23:28:00.001Z

Fr David Jones is a Welsh hermit who lives in Duleek, (or should that be a hermit from Wales?) which is not far from Drogheda. He was on Spirit Radio on Monday, and gave an interesting interview. If you missed it, you can listen to the interview on his website. Yes, the hermit has a website! He uploads various homilies etc. His sermon on the Feast of the Epiphany is really very good. He addresses the Irish habits of blasphemy, foul language and smoking! It is not your standard irish sermon. Watch it, and share it with your friends on facebook, if you are brave enough!

A Prayer for Humility

2012-01-11T16:11:00.000Z

I found this prayer on the "Catholic One" phone app (excellent app, by the way!). This prayer has really has struck a chord with me, so I share it with you. This Litany of Humility prayer was composed by Rafael Cardinal Merry del Val (1865-1930).

Litany of Humility

O Jesus! meek and humble of heart, Hear me.

From the desire of being esteemed, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the desire of being loved, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the desire of being extolled, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the desire of being honored, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the desire of being praised, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the desire of being preferred to others, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the desire of being consulted, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the desire of being approved, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the fear of being humiliated, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the fear of being despised, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the fear of suffering rebukes, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the fear of being calumniated, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the fear of being forgotten, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the fear of being ridiculed, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the fear of being wronged, Deliver me, Jesus.
From the fear of being suspected, Deliver me, Jesus.

That others may be loved more than I, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it.
That others may be esteemed more than I, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it.
That, in the opinion of the world, others may increase and I may decrease, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it.
That others may be chosen and I set aside, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it.
That others may be praised and I unnoticed, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it.
That others may be preferred to me in everything, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it.
That others may become holier than I, provided that I may become as holy as I should, Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it.

May the example of the Holy Family inspire all Christian families to be schools of prayer

2011-12-29T19:15:00.000Z

BENEDICT XVI

GENERAL AUDIENCE

Paul VI Audience HallWednesday, 28 December 2011

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Our continuing catechesis on prayer leads us, during this Christmas season, to reflect on the place of prayer in the life of the Holy Family of Nazareth. In the home of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, we learn to contemplate the mystery of God’s presence and to grow as faithful disciples of Christ. The Gospels present Mary as the supreme model of prayerful medition on the mysteries of Christ’s life; in praying the Rosary, in fact, we unite ourselves to her contemplation of those mysteries in faith and hope. Saint Joseph fulfilled his vocation as the father of the Holy Family by teaching Jesus the importance of quiet fidelity to work, prayer and observance of the precepts of the Law. Jesus’ unique relationship with his heavenly Father was reflected in the prayer life of the Holy Family and stands at the heart of all Christian prayer. May the example of the Holy Family inspire all Christian families to be schools of prayer, where parents and children alike come to know that closeness to God which we joyfully celebrate in these days of Christmas. www.vativcan.va

The Holy Innocents

2011-12-28T20:02:00.000Z

The Flight into Egypt and the Triumph of the Innocents,
by William Holman Hunt

The glorified spirits of the murdered children of Bethlehem,
a happy garlanded band, the "flowers of the martyrs, " and first of that
glorious company whose shining ranks are nearest the throne of the
Slain One, have come to accompany Jesus in the flight. He has just
caught sight of his martyred playmates, visible to him only, and turns
with radiant greeting, holding towards them a handful of wheat ears
typical of the Bread of Life. (source)

St John the Evangelist, pray for us

2011-12-27T17:28:00.001Z

By Charles Le Brun

In the second general persecution, in the year 95, St. John was apprehended by the proconsul of Asia and sent to Rome, where he was miraculously preserved from death when thrown into a cauldron of boiling oil. On account of this trial, the title of martyr is given him by the fathers, who say that thus was fulfilled what Christ had foretold him, that he should drink of his cup.

Happy Christmas

2011-12-25T10:49:00.000Z

Adoration of the Shepherds, Charles Le Brun

A last minute note to Santa

2011-12-24T22:32:00.000Z

This note was put out for Santa Claus in my house tonight. Obviously someone had been listening to my stories, about the bags of coal, that bold children had received on Christmas morning.

Truly hilarious

2011-12-19T20:55:00.000Z

Film Club Reminder

2011-12-17T12:30:00.001Z

I know the blog has been quiet of late. Life has simply got in the way of blogging! Hopefully things will get back to normal soon.

The final film of 2011 will be shown on Tuesday the 20th December. So come along and put a smile in your Christmas preparation and watch Nativity! 7pm Knights of Colombanus, Ely Place, Dublin 2. Come along and bring a frined or two. All welcome

St Lucy, pray for us

2011-12-13T19:50:00.000Z

St Genesius Film Club: Nativity!

2011-12-09T23:10:00.000Z

Tuesday, December 20th,

Dublin Film Club, at Ely House, Ely Place, at 7pm.

This month's movie, the BBC's comedy Nativity!

Starring:Martin Freeman, Marc Wootton and Jason Watkins

The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

2011-12-08T17:09:00.000Z

Today's feast is much misunderstood. Watch this video and see that many of us Catholics "don't know Jack!

Come along and join the "Vigil of Hope"

2011-12-05T12:17:00.000Z

Many people come to Dublin on the 8th of December to do a bit of Christmas shopping, if you happen to be in town come along to the Dail and join the Vigil of Hope.

The Church is a safe place for our children

2011-11-30T16:20:00.001Z

Audits of child protection practices, conducted by the National Board for Safeguarding Children in the Catholic Church, have been published by six dioceses, today. Six reports in one day, that's a lot to process, but at least we can get it over and done with in one go. Here they are Raphoe, Derry, Dromore, Kilmore, Ardagh and Clonmacnoise, Tuam.

At a glance there is a lot of positive information in these reports. Most of the focus will be on the allegations and failures. We must remember, that these allegations and failures are historical. They bear no reflection on how things are in the Church in Ireland today. I firmly believe that the Catholic Church in Ireland is one of the safest places for children today.

In Ireland we have a lot to learn from past failures. Irish sociey, and not just the Church, has been failing children for far too long, hopefully we can all learn from the failures in our past.

It is my hope that the Church’s conscientious efforts to confront this reality will help the broader community to recognize the causes, true extent and devastating consequences of sexual abuse, and to respond effectively to this scourge which affects every level of society. By the same token, just as the Church is rightly held to exacting standards in this regard, all other institutions, without exception, should be held to the same standards. -Pope Benedict XVI November 27th 2011

http://www.safeguarding.ie/

Praying for Vocations

2011-11-26T21:27:00.000Z

Fr Ruari O Domhnaill CC Newbridge celebrated an Afternoon of Prayer on Sunday last in Maynooth College for an increase in vocations to priesthood and consecrated life. The Afternoon was arranged by members of St Joseph's Young Priests Society.

http://www.stjosephsyoungpriestssociety.com/

A Prayer for Vocations

O Jesus, send labourers into

your fields,

which are awaiting holy apostles,

saintly priests,

heroic missionaries and

dedicated sisters and brothers.

Enkindle in the hearts of men and

women the spark of a vocation.

Grant that Christian families may

desire to give your Church,

helpers in the work of tomorrow.

Amen.

Patsy McGarry and Breda O'Brien on Vincent Brown

2011-11-24T17:58:00.000Z

Patsy McGarry and Breda O'Brien were on the Vinvent Brown show on Tuesday night. They were there to discuss the RTE Fr Reynolds debacle. In the middle of the discussion McGarry did some character assisination on O'Brien. I am not a fan of McGarry, and during the show his accusations against O'Brien were a disgrace. McGarry obviously needs to learn some lessons from the Fr Roynolds case.

McGarry: ”Breda comes from the provisional wing of the Catholic church, and never resists an opportunity to have a go at the media. And has been doing this for years – often to the detriment of the emergence of this tragedy. The reason this has happened…”

O’Brien: ”That’s a really serious allegation Mr McGarry.”

I found a transcript of the conversion on Broadsheet.

Link to the show on 3player.

Inclusivity for everyone except Catholics

2011-11-21T19:56:00.052Z

The recommendations of the The Forum on the future patronage of Catholic schools make sober reading. It is all still all at the proposal stage, but as a catholic parent I am not impressed. I have no problem divesting some catholic schools, but it seems that the catholic schools we will be left with, will not be worth having.

One proposal that needs to be shot down immediately is that our Catholic schools will only be allowed to be Catholic at certain times in the day. Do these people not realise that good teaching is not done in this way? Religious instruction will be restricted to a particular periods in the day. It seems that Catholic schools will only be allowed to have a catholic ethos at these times. When I sent my children to school, I choose a Catholic school, I wanted a Catholic ethos.

Now I do not begrudge non-catholics a secular education, but I would question their right to have it in my catholic school. It is not the fault of the Catholic Church that there are few non catholic schools. Our state has failed to provide them, so blame the state and leave our Catholic schools alone.

In a few years time, our Catholic children in our Catholic schools may not be allowed to learn, or sing Christmas carols in school. The mere mention of Christmas may be banned, as someone might get offended. There will be no nativity plays or carol services! Christmas is after all a christian celebration, and therefore it excludes all non Christians, so Christmas will have to be cancelled, as far as school is concerned. The teacher may get in trouble for handing out pictures of the baby Jesus, the sheperds, or the wise men to colour-in. There will be no colouring of shamrocks for St Patrick's day. There will be no mention of lent. Will my children get detention if they mention Jesus or our Blessed Mother outside of the allotted time?? There will be no mass, no prayers for the dead etc... These suggestions really are unbelievable!!!!!!! We will not be allowed to do anything, say anything, or celebrate anything that might exclude someone.

The Forums proposals are all about inclusivity, but this inclusivity seems to be all about excluding the viewpoint of Catholics! How can we celebrate our christian life without excluding Muslims, or atheists? We can not.

The images below are from the presentation of the recommendations of the Forum on the Future of Catholic schools.

The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

2011-11-21T19:41:00.000Z

from The Presentation of the Virgin Mary by Titian
(1534-38, Gallerie dell'Accademia, Venice).

Can I tempt you?

2011-11-17T17:06:00.000Z

Simple.

2011-11-16T18:39:00.000Z

We can do better than this!

2011-11-15T17:18:00.000Z

Majority backed Kenny’s Cloyne speech is a piece written in yesterdays Irish Examiner. Here is an excerpt:

The Irish Examiner requested to view letters and emails received by the department between July 20 and August 1.
A total of 507 messages were released, with 455 (89.8%) entirely supportive of the speech; a further 23 (4.5%) conditionally supportive; and the remaining 29 (5.7%) critical.

When I read this I got annoyed, the Department of the Taoiseach only received 29 letters of complaint. Are we pathetic or what? This is simply just not good enough. I wrote, did you write? Are you sure you did? The only thing that can excuse this pathetic number of complaints is the short time frame. Catholics of Ireland, we can do better than this! and if we can't we deserve all that aggressive secularism throws at us!

Prayer

Jesus, King of All Nations,

Whose Reign is without end,

May we serve You.

Amen.

Passion of the Christ- In Christ Alone

2011-11-14T00:19:00.002Z

Is the Irish Government Anti-Catholic?

2011-11-08T18:07:00.000Z

The Irish government's decision to close the Irish Embassy to the Holy See has been greeted by many Irish Catholics with shock. Many now realise that the closure has absolutely nothing to do with money. It is simply our aggressively secular government, putting our Church, in what they think is its proper place. The antics of this current government are alienating catholics. The latest Iona Institute survey shows clearly that on the ground people are feeling the hostility. From the survey:

"One in five consider the Government to be excessively hostile towards the Catholic Church.

Almost a third of weekly Mass-goers believe the Government is excessively hostile towards the Church."
Is this acceptable? No. Our government does not have the right to harass Irish Catholics in this way. Shame on them. Below is a definition of anti-Catholicism from Wikipedia.

Iona survey shows the Irish government's hostility towards the Catholic Church

2011-11-08T00:03:00.000Z

Suggested reading : Attitudes Towards the Catholic Church. An Amárach Report for the Iona Institute October 2012.

page 8, The Amarach Report,
The Iona Institute

Make sure you tell your politicians what you think...

2011-11-07T17:34:00.000Z

I encourage all readers of this blog to send a letter or email to their local politicans, and to the head honchos, of this banana republic (namely Enda and Eamon). Please let them know that you are not happy with the closure of our Embassy to the Holy See. Tell the the decision is unacceptable, and tell them that their behaviour is disgraceful! If you do not tell them, they will not know. Afterall they are not mind readers.

TAOISEACH'S PRIVATE OFFICE

e-mail: taoiseach@taoiseach.gov.ie
Phone: 01-6194020 / 4021 / 4043
Fax: 01-6764048

Eamon Gilmore TD, The Labour Party

Leader of the Labour Party, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs & Trade
Tel:Constituency Office 01 4082018
Constituency Office Fax: 01 4082690
Email: eamon.gilmore@oir.ie

Our Government Hates Our Church

2011-11-07T00:06:00.000Z

It is now official, the Irish Government hates the Catholic Church. Our Taoiseach attacked the Pope in June, and now they are closing the Embassy to the Holy See. It really is a teenage tantrum gone too far, and I fear that much damage will be done before adolescence is over. The closure makes no real sense, (unless you are a huffing teenager). The Tanaiste has said that the Embassy is of no economic benefit. So I expect that we will have more embassy closures in the near future. (Not a chance, as the closure of the Embassy to the Holy See has nothing to do with economics, it is entirely political). The anti-catholic labour party are busy furthering their social agenda, and no doubt they are very pleased with themselves. We are at a very dangerous juncture in Irish history, people are distracted by our economic uncertainties, and the devil himself is running amuck in our beloved land. Our government hates our church, so what now for the catholics of this country?

And the devil led him onto a high mountain, and he showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time, and he said to him: “To you, I will give all this power, and its glory. For they have been handed over to me, and I give them to whomever I wish. Therefore, if you will worship before me, all will be yours.” Luke 4:6

Prayer

To you, Triune God,

confident in the loving protection of Mary,

Queen of Ireland, our Mother,

and of Saint Patrick, Saint Brigid and all the saints,

do we entrust ourselves, our children,

and the needs of the Ireland. Amen.

Photo dropping

2011-11-06T14:16:00.000Z

I simply can not do name dropping as well as Cork people, but I'll try a little photo dropping instead. This is me waiting for lunch at the Villa Spada (the soon to be ex-residence of Irish Ambassador to the Holy See). It was a nice lunch. And by the way I hate the Labour Party and Fine Gael!

May God save the Irish from themselves.

A Pilgrimage Not to be Missed

2011-11-03T21:49:00.000Z

The Fraternity of St Genesius is off on pilgrimage once again.

All Souls Day

2011-11-02T22:12:00.000Z

All Souls' Day by William Bouguereau

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Eucharistic Youth Congress in Letterkenny

2011-10-27T17:26:00.001+01:00

Click for more Information

Where the presidential candidates stand on the right to life

2011-10-26T23:36:00.000+01:00

From the Prolife Campaign

Statement from Presidential candidate Seán Gallagher to the Pro Life Campaign, received on 26th October 2011:

Like most Irish people, I believe every new human life is precious and entitled to protection. But just as strongly, I believe that women are entitled to receive all necessary medical treatments when pregnant. I believe there’s the world of difference between interventions like these and abortion. There are conflicting opinions on abortion in Ireland as in every other society. But one thing we should all agree on is the way we conduct ourselves in the debate. It’s the least we owe those most personally affected by the issue. Heated and hostile debate sheds light on nothing. As a society, we need to do a lot more to support and help women in crisis pregnancy.

Declared positions of other candidates

Dana Rosemary Scallon has always expressed her opposition to abortion and supports legal protection for human embryos.

Gay Mitchell was a founder of the Human Dignity group in the European Parliament, which promotes respect for human life at all stages. He has an excellent voting record on life issues in the European Parliament.

Mary Davis responded to the Pro Life Campaign that she supports Constitutional protection for the unborn and supports legal protection for human embryos.

Martin McGuinness did not respond to the Pro Life Campaign. Some Sinn Féin TDs have in recent times given personal pro-life commitments to the Pro Life Campaign but the party as a whole has not.

Michael D Higgins and David Norris did not reply to the Pro Life Campaign. Both candidates support legislation for abortion based on the X case ruling. That decision heard no medical evidence and set no time limits for when an abortion can take place in pregnancy. If legislated for, it would de facto allow for abortion on demand

Pope Benedict XVI: Accompany me in prayer as I journey tomorrow to Assisi

2011-10-26T17:32:00.000+01:00

Young Nuns BBC1 tonight

2011-10-25T10:17:00.001+01:00

Blessed John Paul II, pray for us

2011-10-22T15:05:00.000+01:00

October 22nd marks the first time the Church celebrates the Feast Day of Blessed John Paul II .

The Fraternity of St Genesius' Litany to Blessed John Paul

Lord have mercy,
Christ have mercy,
Lord have mercy,

Mary, Mother of God, pray for us
Mother of the Church,
Queen of all Saints,

Blessed John Paul II, pray for us
Heroic Pastor,
Witness to Hope,
Mystical Pontiff,
Teacher in Holiness,
Defender of Life,
Prophet of True Freedom,
Father of the Young,
Apostle of Mercy,

V. Pray for us, Holy Pontiff, Blessed John Paul:
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

A song for those who are struggling

2011-10-18T20:52:00.001+01:00

Event Annoucement

2011-10-16T23:47:00.001+01:00

Tuesday 18th October @7pm, Knights of Colombanus, Dublin 2

The Bell (2)

2011-10-11T23:40:00.000+01:00

Damien and Fr Denis Nulty with the bell in Drogheda.
More photos at Meath Diocese

The Eucharistic Congress Bell has finished its grand tour of St Mary's parish in Drogheda, Co Louth, and I for one am exhausted. I travelled with the bell this morning to our two parish primary schools. Our first stop was St Mary's BNS, on Congress Avenue. I wonder where that street got its name? The boys were, of course, delighted to get a break from the normal school routine, and they sang the official Congress hymn with great gusto. I can also state, that without a doubt, the children in our parish definitely know that And with your spirit, is the correct response to The Lord be with You, whereas we adults are going to need a little more time! (I for one was caught out several times today). You can listen to the girls of Scoil Mhuire Fatima singing the Eucharistic Congress hymn on the Diocese of Meath on Facebook page, well done girls! The bell also visited the Adoration chapel, a nursing home, the "under construction" new parish school, the graveyard and two shopping centres. Thankfully, the rain held off this evening, and great crowds turned out to walk in procession, to our church for a prayer service. As ever, much to the delight of my children, the day ended with tea and buns in the parish centre.

The Bell..............

2011-10-10T17:07:00.000+01:00

The Eucharistic Congress Bell is arriving in our parish tomorrow. It arrives in the parish at 11am, and it will have quite a hectic day. It will visit schools and shopping centres. The children are all busy learning the Eucharistic Congress official hymn.

Hopefully the bell will call people to prayer, on its travels throughout our parish. The climax of the day will be a Eucharistic Holy Hour in St Mary's Church, Drogheda, at 7.30pm. Now if I'm honest, I think the idea of the bell is a bit naff. I would have had a traditional "Fourty Hours" of Eucharistic devotion in our parishes instead, but hey I'm not in charge of the Irish Church.

The bell is from the now closed Dominican Convent of Portstewart, Co. Derry. I find it ironic, that at a time of crisis in the Irish Church, we decide to drag a bell from an abandoned convent around the country. Will the ringing of the bell call people to prayer, or will it simply call them to play with the ding-a-ling?

The Death Knell Is Ringing

The death knell is ringing

The raven is singing

The earth worm is creeping

The mourners are weeping

Ding dong, bell--

Percy Bysshe Shelley

Remember YOUR Friday Prayer and Penance

2011-10-07T21:53:00.000+01:00

CARITATE CHRISTI COMPULSI

ENCYCLICAL OF POPE PIUS XI

ON THE SACRED HEART

25. Penance then is, as it were, a salutary weapon placed in the hands of the valiant soldiers of Christ, who wish to fight for the defense and restoration of the moral order in the universe. It is a weapon that strikes right at the root of all evil, that is at the lust of material wealth and the wanton pleasures of life. By means of voluntary sacrifices, by means of practical and even painful acts of self-denial, by means of various works of penance, the noble-hearted Christian subdues the base passions that tend to make him violate the moral order. But if zeal for the divine law and brotherly love are as great in him as they should be, then not only does he practice penance for himself and his own sins, but he takes upon himself the expiation of the sins of others, imitating the Saints who often heroically made themselves victims of reparation for the sins of whole generations, imitating even the divine Redeemer, who became the Lamb of God "who taketh away the sins of the world").

Prayer for the Church in Ireland

God of our fathers,
renew us in the faith which is our life and salvation,
the hope which promises forgiveness and interior renewal,
the charity which purifies and opens our hearts
to love you, and in you, each of our brothers and sisters.

Lord Jesus Christ,
may the Church in Ireland renew her age-old commitment
to the education of our young people in the way of truth and goodness, holiness and generous service to society.

Holy Spirit, comforter, advocate and guide,
inspire a new springtime of holiness and apostolic zeal
for the Church in Ireland.

May our sorrow and our tears,
our sincere effort to redress past wrongs,
and our firm purpose of amendment
bear an abundant harvest of grace
for the deepening of the faith
in our families, parishes, schools and communities,
for the spiritual progress of Irish society,
and the growth of charity, justice, joy and peace
within the whole human family.

To you, Triune God,
confident in the loving protection of Mary,
Queen of Ireland, our Mother,
and of Saint Patrick, Saint Brigid and all the saints,
do we entrust ourselves, our children,
and the needs of the Church in Ireland.

Amen.

Steve Jobs, Requiescat in pace

2011-10-06T22:20:00.000+01:00

The death of Steve Jobs brought to mind a pro-life video from 2009. Here it is.

Event Notice

2011-10-05T15:58:00.000+01:00

“The Call to Fatima” triduum in honour of Our Lady of the Rosary will take place at St Mary of the Angels Church, Dublin 7 on Friday 7th, Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th October 2011.

Three days of prayer will emphasize the importance of the Fatima Message for our times, bringing along several experts on this topic. Triduum is organised in honour of Our Lady of the Rosary, feast day officially celebrated around the world on 7th October. It was in Fatima, Portugal, where the Virgin Mary stated in October 1917, that she is the Lady of the Rosary to Lucia, Jacinta and Francisco. Our Lady of Fatima was especially loved by Saint Padre Pio, who is a patron saint of St Mary of the Angels Church, run by Irish Capuchin Franciscans.

The key guest speakers are coming from around the world, including Fr Andrew Apostoli, Franciscan of the Renewal, New York, USA, Sister Angela Coelho, the Vice-Postulator for Blessed Jacinta and Francisco Marto, Fatima, Portugal, Doctor Branca Paul, the private physician of last visionary Sister Lucia, Coimbra, Portugal, Soprano Singer Louise Irvine from Northern Ireland and The Call to Fatima film producer &and director Thomas McCormack.

During the Triduum the faithful will have the opportunity to view an exhibition of the Relics, those of the True Cross, Saint Padre Pio, Saint Teresa of Liseux (Little Flower), Saint Anthony, Blessed Francisco and Jacinta. Masses will be scheduled as usual along with confessions, music, Adoration and inspirational talks by the guest speakers.

All are very welcome, especially youth and families, as well as different international communities who have come to make their home in Ireland. The full agenda for the retreat will be seen on the blog http://www.thecalltofatima.wordpress.com/

Programme for St Mary of the Angels, Church Street Dublin 7

Friday 7th October First Friday / Feast day of Holy Rosary
8.00 am Mass followed by Talk 1 and 2
10.30 am Visit to the local schools (Guest Speakers only)
2- 4 pm visiting the poor of Dublin Talk 3 and 4 (Guest Speakers only)
7.00 pm Rosary
7.30pm Celebration of the Mass
8.15-9.30pm Talk 5, 6 and 7

Saturday 8th October
9.00 amThe Rosary
9.30 am Celebration of the Mass
10.30 to 1pm Talk 1 and 2
1pm to 2.15pm Lunch
2.15pm to 5 pm Talks and Music

Sunday 9th October
9 am Mass Talk 1 (St Mary of the Angels)
10 am Mass Talk 2 (St Mary of the Angles)
11.30 Mass Talk 3 (St Mary of the Angels)
12 pm Mass talk 4 (Halston Street)

Each day there will be: Blessing of the many relics, Confession, Rosary, music, Brown Scapular enrolment. Tea and coffee served all day with plenty of toilet facilities available. "

Have you volunteered yet?

2011-10-04T17:51:00.000+01:00

To find out more information about becoming a volunteer at the 50th International Eucharistic Congress, visit their website, you can even apply online!

Dana urgently needs your help!

2011-10-03T17:49:00.000+01:00

Dana urgently needs your help!

If you are an Irish citizen/Irish Passport Holder and would like to donate to help Dana in her campaign to become the 9th President of Ireland (Uachtarán na hÉireann), her campaign bank details are as follows:

By Mail:

AIB Bank
Adare
Co. Limerick
Ireland

or Directly, to:

Account Name: Dana Rosemary Scallon
Account Number: 05740001
Sort Code: 93-50-93
IBAN Number: IE55AIBK93509305740001

St Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face, pray for us

2011-10-01T15:05:00.001+01:00

If God answers my desires,

my heaven will be spent on earth until the end of the world.

Yes, I want to spend my heaven in doing good on earth.

(St Therese)

Flower Power Prayer

Little Flower, in this hour,

show thy power. Amen.

Dana fought a good fight on the "Late Late Show"

2011-10-01T01:06:00.000+01:00

Dana Rosemary Scallon fought a good fight on the Late Late Show tonight, despite RTE's best efforts. She was the only candidate that appeared to have any real agenda. The others candidates merely spouted well meaning sentiments, that lack any real practical application. She said that she wanted to protect our Constitution, which is under serious threat from Europe. Her attack on Europe went down a treat with the audience. Dana has been warning the people of Ireland about Europe's real agenda for years. It is a pity that more people did not listen to her. Time has proved that Dana was right about Europe. She recieved spontaneous applause at one point, which Tubridy stopped. Why? He basically told the audience that they were not allowed to clap. Cheeky sod! Unfortunately, her good work was probably undone when Ryan, proceeded to hold Dana accountable for the church child sex abuse mess. Tonight Dana appeared to be the best person for the job, but I do not think that we as a people even deserve somone of her integrity. If Barabas (Matthew 27:21) was running for president we would probably elect him!

Remember it's Friday : Time for Prayer and Penance

2011-09-30T19:20:00.000+01:00

Prayer for the Church in Ireland

God of our fathers,

renew us in the faith which is our life and salvation,
the hope which promises forgiveness and interior renewal,
the charity which purifies and opens our hearts
to love you, and in you, each of our brothers and sisters.

Lord Jesus Christ,
may the Church in Ireland renew her age-old commitment
to the education of our young people in the way of truth and goodness,
holiness and generous service to society.

Holy Spirit, comforter, advocate and guide,
inspire a new springtime of holiness and apostolic zeal
for the Church in Ireland.

May our sorrow and our tears,
our sincere effort to redress past wrongs,
and our firm purpose of amendment
bear an abundant harvest of grace
for the deepening of the faith
in our families, parishes, schools and communities,
for the spiritual progress of Irish society,
and the growth of charity, justice, joy and peace
within the whole human family.

To you, Triune God,
confident in the loving protection of Mary,
Queen of Ireland, our Mother,
and of Saint Patrick, Saint Brigid and all the saints,
do we entrust ourselves, our children,
and the needs of the Church in Ireland.

Amen.

Norris: No, Nay, Never!

2011-09-29T22:45:00.000+01:00

Senator David Norris has had to replace several key members of his presidential election campaign team. How can anyone even consider voting for this man? His own people have abandoned him, and they must have good reason. What do they know that we don't know? This man is simply not presidential material. How can we vote for a man, when those who were running his campaign have walked away. They obviously believe that he is unsuitable. Hopefully his campaign will implode soon.

Pro Life Campaign’s National Conference 2011

2011-09-29T21:54:00.000+01:00

The Pro Life Campaign’s National Conference 2011, which take place on Saturday, November 5th from 1.30 - 4.30pm in the Alexander Hotel, Dublin 2.

The theme of this year’s conference is ‘Advancing the Pro-life Message – Projects that are working'. The Pro Life Campaign are delighted to welcome to Ireland guest speakers Reggie Littlejohn of Women's Rights Without Frontiers and Ryan Bomberger of the Radiance Foundation, both of whom are playing a pivotal role in presenting new and imaginative ways of promoting the pro-life message and exposing the hopelessly inadequate defences offered by abortion advocates.

Threats to the right-to-life in Ireland remain very real, both from abortion and destructive research on living human embryos. But there are also signs of hope and a renewed energy within the pro-life movement. In addition to our two international guest speakers, Professor William Binchy, Legal Adviser to the Pro Life Campaign, will give a brief update on the Irish situation and how best we might respond.

Booking in advance is essential. If you would like to attend the conference, please reserve a place straightaway as seating capacity is very limited.

To register online click here

Dana will be on the ballot paper for the Presidential election

2011-09-27T15:43:00.000+01:00

Dana Rosemary Scallon has succeeded, so she will be on the ballot paper for the Presidential election on October 27! Well done to all who had the common sense to nominate her.

I hate RTE

2011-09-27T14:18:00.000+01:00

According to their website RTE are supposed to,

"Operate in the public interest, providing News and Current Affairs that is fair and impartial, accurate and challenging."

From what I have witnessed in the last few weeks, specifically in relation to the nominations for the presidential election, it is obvious that RTE is seriously failing.

83% angry at State's attitude in past to child abuse, says report

2011-09-26T22:18:00.000+01:00

The In Plain Sight report does not appear to be online, but here is a balanced headline, and story ftom the Irish Times.

83% angry at State's attitude in past to child abuse, says report

St Genesius Film Society

2011-09-26T16:34:00.003+01:00

The St Genesius Film Society meets once a month, at the Knights of Colambanus Centre in Dublin 2. They watch a film, sometimes there is a speaker, they have a discussion, and of course refreshments are available. Please feel free to join them this Tuesday, or any other Tuesday (usually the third Tuesday in the month). You will be most welcome. Donations are welcome to cover costs.

September 27th @7pm

Money As Debt 2

THE SECRET LIFE OF YOUR MONEY!

Tuesday 27th September 2011

Knights of St Columbanus Centre

Ely House, 8 Ely Place, Dublin 2

(Off Merrion Row or Hume Street)

at 7pm

We usually meet every third Tuesday of the month, so come along!

We watch the movie, have a discussion with refreshments after.

Everyone welcome, and bring a friend!

__________________________________________________________________________

OCTOBER’S MOVIE: Alfred Hitchcock’s

I Confess

A problem with the Seal of the Confessional?

Tuesday 18TH October @ 7pm

One in Four Annual Report 14th Sept 2011

2011-09-21T16:23:00.000+01:00

One in Four published it's annual report on September 14th. It received little media attention. I wonder why? Since child protection seems all the rage these days? The full report can be read at http://www.oneinfour.ie/. Below are two excerpts.

"While clerical abuse has been the focus of attention, a wider and more hidden problem is that of sexual abuse within the family. The majority of people attending One in Four have not been abused within the Catholic Church but by a family member or somebody they know in their neighbourhood."

"2010 also saw a steady increase in the number of people seeking support in relation to reporting familial abuse to the Gardaí and the HSE. The consequences of reporting are far reaching. Clients report social and familial isolation, denial, withdrawal of support, intimidation and threats. Victims fear how the act of reporting and initiating a court case will affect relationships within their family and in the wider community. Some clients have felt their lives would be at risk if they were to make a report."

'Tis shocking to think that such awful things happen in our country, and in our homes.

Prayer for Protection in Our Homes

Visit this house, we beg you, Lord,

and banish from it the deadly power of the evil one.

May your holy angels dwell here to keep us in peace,

and may your blessing be always upon us.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

CARI's Annual Report. I await some moral outrage from our Media!

2011-09-20T17:46:00.001+01:00

Here is some perspective on childhood sexual abuse situation in Ireland. CARI (Children at Risk in Ireland), launched its annual report yesterday. The report states that "Intrafamilial abuse continues to be the most prominent concern.." Here is a link their website. Click in green "Download Annual Report" button to get the report. Below I include some excerpts from the report.

The year of the Ryan and Murphy Reports
2009 was a year that saw immense public focus on issues of child sexual abuse, albeit historical and clerical abuse. This focus has not led to any extra resources or support for CARI’s clients, as all of our clients are abused in settings other than clerical ones, usually the home or in familiar settings. The typical abuser in CARI’s experience is not a cleric, but a father, stepfather, grandfather, uncle neighbour and, increasingly and worryingly, siblings. CARI wishes to see a focus on this reality in the years ahead in tandem with the ongoing struggle of adult survivors of clerical abuse to have their needs met. It would be great, if the huge wave of concern which has focussed media, political and church attention onto this huge betrayal, could galvanise support for the children who are still today experiencing abuse on a daily basis in all settings.

New reports of CSA remain alarmingly high
IN 2008 the HSE figures in their Review of Adequacy indicated that there were over 2300 new child sexual abuse allegations in that year. It further indicates that of those, 722 cases were not even investigated. It begs questions of how the original number of complaints resulted in only a tiny number 289 (12.5%) of confirmed cases. CARI suggests that there are many concerns arising from those statistics. International studies suggest that only a tiny percentage of allegations are false, less than 2%. What is happening to those reports and what is the situation of those children?

Intrafamilial abuse continues to be the most prominent concern highlighting, once again, the huge dangers that exist for children within a familial setting. This is a point too often forgotten or unheard in today’s media.

I now await the moral outrage of our media on the failures of state and family! I'll be waiting.

Since everyone else seems to be running for president...........

2011-09-19T20:32:00.000+01:00

Get thee to a confessional............

2011-09-17T16:52:00.000+01:00

This post should have been posted days ago, but I suppose it is better late than never. Life just seems to keep getting in the way of blogging lately. Last Monday night I watched "Frontline" on RTE. I was hoping and praying that RTE would not wipe the floor with them, and spit them out, as has become the norm. The programme did annoy me, but I think the it went as well as it could have (considering the current anti-catholic agenda that is at work in the Irish media). Anyway, well done to all those who are fighting the good fight, and keep up the good work.

I couldn't even begin to complain about the program. So I will focus on one little remark. At one stage in the proceedings Fr Iggy O'Donovan (from Drogheda, where I live), announced, "...very few Catholics go near a confessional anymore, lets be straight about that for starters.." Well I can not disagree with him there, as not enough Irish Catholics are going to confession. It broke my heart to listen to the dismissive and condescending way in which our beautiful sacrament was being attacked by some on "Frontline".

Confession is a sacrament that is in need of serious revival in Ireland, and maybe Fr Iggy could set the ball rolling at his own Church in Drogheda. During the summer, I unfortunately make the mistake of going to confession in Fr Iggy's Church, and dear readers, it was a mistake I will never make again. Maybe the numbers going to confession are so poor at the Augustinian Church in Drogheda, because, they do confession badly, really badly in my experience.

The first problem I encountered was the lack of a confession box, (mind you someone was actively painting the box at the time, so I can not really hold that against them). The next problem was that the priest wanted a "wee chat", and I wanted to confess. Believe you me, It is very hard to confess to someone who does not seem to want to hear a confession. And finally, the priest did not even even give me absolution, he may have intended or thought he gave me absolution, but a "healing" prayer followed by "I bless you in the name of the Father, and of the Son..." is not absolution. I left feeling slightly stunned, and so I for one will not be back there (that particular church, not the sacrament).

Confession is the sacrament of healing, and the Irish Church could do with some serious healing at the moment. So lets lets start talking about, preaching about and practicing this wonderful sacrament.

"It is the same priest, Christ Jesus, whose sacred person his minister truly represents. Now the minister, by reason of the sacerdotal consecration which he has received, is truly made like to the high priest and possesses the authority to act in the power and place of the person of Christ himself (virtute ac persona ipsius Christi). Pius XII, encyclical, Mediator Dei: AAS, 39 (1947) 548.

HSE Abortion "Masterclass" protest - Maynooth NUI Friday 16 September

2011-09-14T15:43:00.002+01:00

A protest is being held at the NUI in Maynooth, this Friday, to coincide with the Abortion "Masterclasses" that are being run in the name of Adult and Community Education. It is a disgrace that this event has been organised, in a country which has a pro-life constitution! If you are free join the various Irish pro-life groups who will be there on the day. More information below.

People are asked to gather outside the Church opposite NUIM at 9am. For more information contact 018730463

From http://www.preciouslife.com/

Precious Life will travel to Maynooth on Friday 16th September to take part in a demonstration opposing a major pro-abortion event in the National University of Ireland in Maynooth (NUIM).

The ‘masterclass’, entitled originally “Termination of pregnancy: a lawful choice”, has been organised by NUIM Department of Adult and Community Education. The main presentation will be given by Sherie de Burgh of One Family (formerly of the Irish Family Planning Association). The title of the masterclass was, at best, misleading and clearly suggested approval of abortion on the part of the organisers. Killing innocent unborn children is not “a lawful choice” — it is unlawful since abortion remains a criminal act in Ireland under the Constitution. It’s outrageous that the NUIM have the audacity to organise this event in a country where abortion is unlawful and our unborn children are protected.

A demonstration will be held outside the University during the event on Friday 16th September.

If you wish to join us to travel to the demonstration, or you would like further details, please contact Precious Life on 02890278484

Remember your Friday Prayer and Penance!

2011-09-09T19:39:00.000+01:00

Prayer for the Church in Ireland

God of our fathers,
renew us in the faith which is our life and salvation,
the hope which promises forgiveness and interior renewal,
the charity which purifies and opens our hearts
to love you, and in you, each of our brothers and sisters.

Lord Jesus Christ,
may the Church in Ireland renew her age-old commitment
to the education of our young people in the way of truth and goodness,
holiness and generous service to society.

Holy Spirit, comforter, advocate and guide,
inspire a new springtime of holiness and apostolic zeal
for the Church in Ireland.

May our sorrow and our tears,
our sincere effort to redress past wrongs,
and our firm purpose of amendment
bear an abundant harvest of grace
for the deepening of the faith
in our families, parishes, schools and communities,
for the spiritual progress of Irish society,
and the growth of charity, justice, joy and peace
within the whole human family.

To you, Triune God,
confident in the loving protection of Mary,
Queen of Ireland, our Mother,
and of Saint Patrick, Saint Brigid and all the saints,
do we entrust ourselves, our children,
and the needs of the Church in Ireland.

Amen.

‘BUY ONE – GET ONE FREE’ HOUSE OFFER!

2011-09-09T18:36:00.001+01:00

Buy One and Get One Free!

I'm from Donegal, in case I have't mentioned, and today while browsing at http://www.donegaldaily.aom/ I found this story. An estate agent has a very special offer on some properties. I generally associate "buy one get one free with junk like sweets, crisps and biscuits, but now in recession stricken Ireland, it has been extended to property! This is "Buy One Get One Free" taken to a whole new level.

Read: DONEGAL ESTATE AGENT LAUNCHES AMAZING ‘BUY ONE – GET ONE FREE’ HOUSE OFFER! Donegal Daily

Proud to be Catholic, Ashamed to be Irish

2011-09-08T22:34:00.000+01:00

I have just read the Government's response to the Vatican. I am disappointed, but it was just what I expected. We are a proud people, and I do not mean that in a good way. Today, once again, I am ashamed to be Irish.

Interesting.

2011-09-08T18:12:00.002+01:00

The Iona Institute | 8 Sept 11 Seal of Confession issue is not “bogus”

2011-09-08T17:10:00.002+01:00

Where would we be without David Quinn? Minister Shatter has now said that the seal of confession issue is bogus. But is it?

Read: The Iona Institute 8 Sept 11 Seal of Confession issue is not “bogus”

More Denial: Abortion and Mental health

2011-09-07T13:57:00.014+01:00

Women who had undergone an abortion experienced an 81% increased risk of mental health problems, and nearly 10% of the incidence of mental health problems was shown to be attributable to abortion.

The British Journal of Psychiatry has shown that abortion increases a woman's chance of mental health problems by 81%. This is the largest study to date with 877,181 participants. At one level it should be quite obvious, that killing an unborn child could never be good for anyone's mental health, but we are a culture in denial, when it comes to the repercussions of our choices.

On another note, perhaps abortion providers sbould be hels financially accountable for the increased demand that their businesses are placing on overstretched mental health services?

Prayer

O Mary, Mother of the Life Within,

all life we entrust to you;

The life of every expectant mother

and the child within her womb:

The life of every human body,

the life of every human soul;

The life of every newborn child

and the life of all grown old.

You held the Lord to your own heart

and drew Him so close in.

So draw us now in all our needs,

O Mother of the Life Within.

Amen.

The Association of Catholic Cowards

2011-09-06T18:02:00.000+01:00

Last Sunday, my parish had its first Sunday encounter with the people's parts of the New English Translation of the Roman Missal. All went well. The earth didn't stop. No one collapsed of shock. No resuscitations were necessary. After this absolutely uneventful transition, I wondered "what was all the fuss about?" Here in Ireland, the so called "Association of Catholic Priests", have been stirring up negativity towards the new translation for months. Here is a link to the many posts on the issue on their website. I now conclude that they are a bunch of cowards.

My six year old daughter did say that "reading all those new prayers was a little tiring" (she is 6!). When I asked her if the prayers were hard to say, she said "no, they were easy peasy lemon squeezy!" Maybe she could give Frs Hoban, Flannery, McDonagh and Madden a pep talk.

A Nation in Denial. What about the 97%?

2011-09-04T21:01:00.002+01:00

Denial is a defense mechanism, in which a person is faced with a fact that is too uncomfortable to accept and rejects it instead, insisting that it is not true despite what may be overwhelming evidence.

The Vatican's response to Taoiseach Enda Kenny's rant in the Dail last July, has shown that Enda Kenny and Eamon Gilmore, both got it wrong. The truth is, we can not blame the Vatican for the sexual abuse of Irish children by Irish priests. We will have to blame someone else. Enda and Eamon were wrong, they insulted my Pope, they insulted my faith, and I await their apologies! I wonder if they will be brave enough to admit that they got it wrong?

The Vatican is not responsible for the fact that Irish men raped and abused Irish children. We as a nation need to grow up an realise that we had and no doubt continue to have a problem in relation to the sexual abuse of children. The issue of child abuse needs to be addressed at a national level, and not just at a Church level. Irish men (mostly men) perpetrated these crimes. They were sons of Irish mothers and fathers. They were reared in Irish families. They were not beamed down from the Vatican! Our paedophiles were homegrown! We need to stop blaming Rome and start blaming ourselves. These Irish men abused children, and we as a nation handled it badly. The Church handled it badly, the Gardai handled it badly, the State handled it badly, and families handled it badly. And we are still handling it badly today, despite all our fake anger and moral outrage!

Here are disturbing statistics from the SAVI Report 2002

Girls: One in five women (20.4 per cent) reported experiencing contact sexual abuse in childhood.
A quarter (24 per cent) of perpetrators against girls were family members.
Boys: One in six men (16.2 per cent) reported experiencing contact sexual abuse in childhood.
One quarter of all abuse was committed by someone aged 17 or under.
Clerical/religious ministers or clerical/religious teachers constituting 3.2% of abusers.

We need to look at these figures and be brave enough to admit that this is not just a Church problem. One quarter of all abuse was committed by someone aged 17 or under! Now that is one figure we can not blame on the Church! The shocking reality is that Irish families have sexual abusers living in their midst, and they are not all even adults. Most parents worry about protecting their children from abusers, but few would think about their own children as people capable of abuse (but that's what the figures suggest.)

Do you know of a sexual abuser, or a victim of sexual abuse in your family? Statistically, there must be sexual abusers in all our extended families. 20% of the women, and 16% of the men in your family were abused in childhood. Now I suppose most peoples initial reaction would be, "not my family", and this is a natural reaction. We do not want to admit that such things could happen in "my family". But families are very good a keeping secrets, and sexual abuse is a secret that most people do not want to shout about. Abuse happens, and if it is exposed, it is often deal with it very badly, and then it is never mentioned again, and that is why most of us do not know the dark secrets of sexual abuse in our family history. If you do not know of an abuser in your family, perhaps it is because, some has covered it up, by silence! It has been concealed, by silence?

Irish society wants to blame the Church for all of this, but we can not. 97% of children who were sexually abused were abused by people who were not priests! (Now you would never guess that when you listen to our Irish media). As a nation we continue to ignore the 97%. The media ignores the 97%. We are not willing to face up to the 97%. The 97% is not a problem that will go away, by simply ignoring it. We can not handle the truth of the 97%. We are a nation in denial. At this moment in Irish history we have a scapegoat, the Church, and for the time being we will continue to live in denial and blame them for all of this. But in blaming them we continue to fail our children! Do we want to stop child abuse? Do we want to face up to the complex reality of child sexual abuse? Or do we simply want to continually bash the Church? I think it is easier for us to blame the Church, because we are cowards!

It seems as if you can say anything about the Church these days, you can make any number of generalisations, you can tell any number of lies, and you will be unchallenged. It seems that we as a nation could probably blame every ill in Irish society on the Church! I think the approach seems to be, blame everyone except ourselves. We have become a nation of blamers. We spend our days blaming everyone for everything.

If we really care about children, if we want to protect children, let us look to the 97%. What have we done for them? Nothing! Do we as a society want to do anything for them? Here is another fact, 200 children have died in state "care" in the last ten years, and no one gives a damn. No one! We only seem to care about those who were abused by priests 30 years ago. SHAME ON US! SHAME ON US!

Text of Vatican Response Concerning the Cloyne Report

2011-09-03T12:35:00.001+01:00

Stupidity

2011-08-31T17:17:00.000+01:00

I tired, tired of our whole Church/state situation in Ireland at the moment. It is starting to wear me down. I have almost lost the will to read the news as it is overloaded with anti catholic bias. I never thought that we Irish were the brightest sparks on the planet, but intelligent debate is in short supply these days. I'm starting to think that as a people we are a bit stupid. Unfortunately, our leaders (if you could call them that) are "leading" the way.

St Monica, pray for us

2011-08-26T20:02:00.000+01:00

St Monica

Tomorrow is the feast of St Monica. A novena has been taking place over at http://www.prayforchildren.org./

St Monica is their patron. St Monica was the mother of St Augustine, and boy did he break her heart, but she never gave up on him, she knew that her prayers would eventually be answered. If only we all had her persistence and faith!

One year ago, on the feast of St Monica, a small group of women in Drogheda, began promoting the idea of doing a weekly Holy Hour for children. As a mother I have many encounters with other mothers, and we often exchange stories of our woes and trails with our children. We support each other and console each other. I know that most parents will do anything to help their children, but unfortunately in these Godless times people do not think of doing the most obvious, and important thing for their children, PRAYING! Our children need our prayers. If we do not pray for our children who will? Not many people will say No, when you ask "would you consider doing a holy hour for your children?" Most younger parents have never even thought of prayer, but when you are at the end of your tether, you will give anything a go! And once they are before the Blessed Sacrament, the Lord can begin to work!

So what have we been doing over the last year? We have been suggesting the idea of a Holy Hour to the people that we encounter in our daily lives, and that is an awful lot of people! We also have prayer cards with suggested prayers which we hand out. A few of our members have also engaged in street contact. In general we have had a great response from people. I suppose the simple ideas are always the best!

Remember your Friday prayer and penance!

2011-08-26T12:34:00.000+01:00

Christ of St John of the Cross,
Salvador Dali

Prayer for the Church in Ireland

God of our fathers,
renew us in the faith which is our life and salvation,
the hope which promises forgiveness and interior renewal,
the charity which purifies and opens our hearts
to love you, and in you, each of our brothers and sisters.

Lord Jesus Christ,
may the Church in Ireland renew her age-old commitment
to the education of our young people in the way of truth and goodness,
holiness and generous service to society.

Holy Spirit, comforter, advocate and guide,
inspire a new springtime of holiness and apostolic zeal
for the Church in Ireland.

May our sorrow and our tears,
our sincere effort to redress past wrongs,
and our firm purpose of amendment
bear an abundant harvest of grace
for the deepening of the faith
in our families, parishes, schools and communities,
for the spiritual progress of Irish society,
and the growth of charity, justice, joy and peace
within the whole human family.

To you, Triune God,
confident in the loving protection of Mary,
Queen of Ireland, our Mother,
and of Saint Patrick, Saint Brigid and all the saints,
do we entrust ourselves, our children,
and the needs of the Church in Ireland.

Amen.

St Genesius, pray for us

2011-08-25T14:07:00.002+01:00

Today is the feast of St Genesius, patron saint of actors, and namesake of this blog. I think that St Genesius is a saint for our times. He is a constant reminder to me that I must give witness to my faith, regardless of the cost. We are living in Godless times, and being a catholic seems to be getting harder and harder with every passing day (especially here in Ireland). St Genesius pray for us.

To find our more about St Genesius, go to http://www.stgenesius.com/. Would you consider becoming a member of the Fraternity of St Genesius? We pray for people involved in the cinema, theatre, media and arts. We believe in the power of prayer, and commit to daily prayer for the renewal of our culture.

Holy Mass

St Mary's Church,

Drogheda,

Co. Louth

7.30pm

Blessing with the relic of St Genesius

Blessing of Oil of St Genesius

Followed by refreshments in St Mary's Parish Centre

All welcome

St Rose of Lima, pray for us

2011-08-23T13:36:00.000+01:00

Stained glass window (1925) by Harry Clarke,
depicting St Rose of Lima burning her hands in an act of penance.
St Michael's Church, Ballinasloe
Photo: Andreas F. Borchert

Apart from the cross there is no other ladder by which we may get to heaven. - Saint Rose of Lima

Approaching feast of St Genesius

2011-08-22T17:51:00.000+01:00

We are fast approaching the feast of St Genesius, which is celebrated on August 25th. Fr John Hogan is doing an online novena over at Ex Umbris Et Imaginibus. If you are in the Drogheda area, join us in St Mary's Church for Mass at 7.30pm. You are all welcome.

St Genesius is the patron saint of actors and epileptics, and the Fraternity of St Genesius (of which I am a member) have been praying for the last few years, for all those people involved in cinema/ theatre/ media. I do not need to tell you that the "arts" in general are in serious need of our prayers. If you believe in the power of prayer, join us as we offer our prayers and sacrifices those involved in this work. This is something that you can do from home. To become a member all you have to do is pray! Quite simple really! To find out more visit www.stgenesius.com. Here are a few lines from the Fraternity website.

"We all enjoy the work of actors, actresses, directors, scriptwriters, artists, musicians and many others, on stage, in the cinema or on television, yet do we ever think of praying for them? Theatre and, most particularly, cinema and the media are the most powerful and influential institutions in the world today and are areas in which the Gospel must also be heard and lived. The Fraternity seeks to play its part in the renewal of culture chiefly through prayer and sacrifice. We would like to welcome you to join us in our mission of prayer and support."

Back to life, back to reality

2011-08-21T21:59:00.000+01:00

We were in county Cork for the last few weeks. We go there most summers for a few weeks. We had a great old time, and made the best of our Irish "summer". The children really do love that part of the country. And who can blame them? But it is good to be back.

Friday Prayer and Penance for the Church in Ireland

2011-08-05T11:25:00.001+01:00

Stabat Mater by Gabriel Wuger, 1868

The New Translation of the Mass. Why?

2011-08-04T17:06:00.000+01:00

The New Translation of the Mass is heading our way, and I'm starting to look forward to it, despite the fear and grumbling that has been demonstrated by some on our little island.

Here is a short video explaining why we need this new translation, and how the translation process happened. I found it over at Creative Minority report, and it is so good, that I thought that I should share it with my Irish readers. Check out their website www.catholicyouthministry.com/roman-missal for other videos for teens and youth workers.

Word for Word [Parents] from Life Teen on Vimeo.

We can't handle the Truth

2011-08-03T14:13:00.000+01:00

I know the blog has been quiet of late, but summer holidays and childminding mean little time for this sort of thing.

I am glad that Senator David Norris has bowed out of the race for the Aras, it is sad though that some of his supporters are blaming others for his fall. Senator Norris has accepted his responsibility in this sad mess. He has accepted that he has done wrong. There was no concerted campaign against him. A 22 year old blogger uncovered a story from the senators past, a story that perhaps many Irish journalists did not want to find.

The Ireland of today is busy uncovering the short comings of many in regard to child protection. There will be many more casualties along the way. Norris did what many have done, his concern was for the offender and not for the victim. The truth is that most of us do not want to hear anything bad about someone we love. We do not want to accept that someone we know, respect, or love is capable of abuse. Some people reacted by attempting to side step into the issue of "consent". A 15 year old can not consent, that's the law. Have these people not heard of grooming? If we are serious about child protection we must stop making excuses.

Norris supporters, and the general liberal mindset in this country, seem prepared to over look all failings, if they love you. I came across a vile article by Sam Smyth in the Indo today. Here is a quote "David returned in minutes -- but it was Ezra who made an entrance. He was stocky, with muscles that bulged though a sleeveless T-shirt and figure-hugging jeans tucked into knee-length leather boots." Is this journalist for real? It seems that some of our journalists do not care about child protection at all.

John Watters on the Norris Story

2011-07-31T22:34:00.003+01:00

Listen to John Watters on Newstalk on Sunday discussing the Norris controversy. This is the most sane debate that I have heard in regard to this story. Around 20 minutes in John give a great blast. Well done John. He was so good I even sent him an e-mail!

I tried to embedd, but it would not allow me, so here is the link.

Read "Jackanory"

2011-07-31T15:16:00.000+01:00

My husband "Catholicus", brilliant as ever, read his latest blog post.

More on Fine Gael and "Association of Catholic Priests"

2011-07-29T14:59:00.003+01:00

One Big Fat Irish Mess that gets worse with every passing day!

I just don't get this country, one minute they are calling for the separation of church and state and then this??

Eucharistic Congress should be postponed - Keane

Source Fine Gael website

Fine Gael Senator for Dublin South West, Cáit Keane, has today (Wednesday) called for the postponement of the Eucharistic Congress, one of the largest liturgical events in the Catholic Church, which is due to take place in the Phoenix Park next June.

Speaking in the Seanad yesterday (Tuesday), Senator Keane said: ‘In light of the findings of the Cloyne report, I support the Association of Catholic Priests in Ireland’s request to postpone this event as I believe it is not an appropriate time for an event such as the Eucharistic Congress to take place in this country.

“I believe that everyone will be better served, given the sensitivities around the findings of this report, that it be held at a later date.

“The Association has over five hundred ordinary priests as members in this country who are not afraid to speak out on the injustices and wrongdoings in the Church, and we must support their efforts to stand up and be counted.”

ENDS

Things just seem to get worse with every passing day!

Do you believe him?

2011-07-25T21:21:00.000+01:00

Please write to Taoiseach Enda Kenny and complain about his appalling "rant" against the Church. I know the Church has failed, but his speech was simply out of order. It was disgraceful. It was the speech of an angry teenager. In demonising the Church, he demonised me, and every other Irish Catholic who is trying to do their best. I am a Catholic, and I am proud to be a Catholic, no matter how much hatred Enda Kenny manages to drum up. Shame on you Enda!

E-mail:webmaster@taoiseach.gov.ie

Enda was in Donegal yesterday at the McGill Summer School and according to him, "I’ve had several hundred messages from parish priests around this country who said ‘it’s about time somebody spoke out like this." I find it hard to believe that several hundred parish priests have contacted Enda since Wednesday 20th July (just four days ago).

Sheep seeking Shepherd

2011-07-23T23:11:00.000+01:00

I am in Donegal at the moment, visiting my family, so the blog has been quiet. So much has been happening within the Irish Church of late, and unfortunately every anti-catholic person in Ireland has been having a field day. I am almost glad I do not have the time to attempt a response on any of it. Our Church is on its knees and all around are giving it a good kicking. I was shocked and saddened, but not surprised by our Taoiseach's rant against the Church, and the pathetic media frenzy that followed, celebrating the new "mature" Ireland. But most of all I am annoyed by the silence, yes the SILENCE of our shepherds, our bishops. I keep waiting for one of them to say something. Where are you guys? On holidays??? Could at least one of our bishops attempt to lead the catholics in Ireland at this difficult time? Your people need leadership. I need leadership. Please lead! P-L-E-A-S-E!

Darnel or wheat?

2011-07-17T15:08:00.002+01:00

The 31st Dáil

"Let them both grow till the harvest;

and at harvest time I shall say to the reapers:

First collect the darnel and tie it in bundles to be burnt,

then gather the wheat into my barn.”

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, I place Ireland in your hands

2011-07-16T11:58:00.000+01:00

This morning I ask Our Lady of Mount Carmel to interceed for our struggling Irish Church.

Prayer to Our Lady of Mount Carmel

O Most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity.

O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein You are my Mother.

O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech You from the bottom of my heart to succor me in this necessity. There are none that can withstand Your power.

O show me herein You are my Mother.

O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee.

O show me herein You are my Mother.

O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee.

O show me herein You are my Mother.

O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee.

Sweet Mother, I place Ireland in Your hands.

Seal of Confession Under threat

2011-07-15T19:31:00.000+01:00

"It is a crime for a confessor in any way to betray a penitent by word or in any other manner or for any reason." Canon Law

The attack on Catholicism has gathered pace in Ireland in the last while. Last week they were threatening to seize church assets, this week it is the seal of confession. I wonder what they have in mind for next week?The seal of the confession is under attack. Our politicians want mandatory reporting of sexual abuse which is confessed. But a priest can not break the seal, no matter what! If a priest breaks the seal of confession he is automatically ex-communicated.

Priests have died to protect the seal, and yet our bishops are silent. Could one of our Church leaders please say something?

Please feel free to share the "Protect the Seal" image above.

Remember to do your Friday prayer and penance for the Church in Ireland

2011-07-15T19:24:00.000+01:00

Prayer for the Church in Ireland

God of our fathers,
renew us in the faith which is our life and salvation,
the hope which promises forgiveness and interior renewal,
the charity which purifies and opens our hearts
to love you, and in you, each of our brothers and sisters.

Lord Jesus Christ,
may the Church in Ireland renew her age-old commitment
to the education of our young people in the way of truth and goodness, holiness and generous service to society.

Holy Spirit, comforter, advocate and guide,
inspire a new springtime of holiness and apostolic zeal
for the Church in Ireland.

May our sorrow and our tears,
our sincere effort to redress past wrongs,
and our firm purpose of amendment
bear an abundant harvest of grace
for the deepening of the faith
in our families, parishes, schools and communities,
for the spiritual progress of Irish society,
and the growth of charity, justice, joy and peace
within the whole human family.

To you, Triune God,
confident in the loving protection of Mary,
Queen of Ireland, our Mother,
and of Saint Patrick, Saint Brigid and all the saints,
do we entrust ourselves, our children,
and the needs of the Church in Ireland.

Amen.

Ask HSE to Cancel Pro-Abortion 'Masterclass"

2011-07-12T18:05:00.000+01:00

Opinionviewer.com has made this easy for us. Simply fill in your contact details and tick the relevant boxes. Click here to go to their website.

Tax payers money being wasted on "Termination Masterclasses" at Maynooth

2011-07-11T19:34:00.000+01:00

Pat Buckley can be relied upon to bring to our attention all sorts of bad news, that will require some action from us.

Health services are bing cut across the country, and yet the HSE seems to have the money waste on "masterclasses". At the NUI in Maynooth you can sign up to a masterclass on "Termination of pregnancy: a lawful choice". Someone would need to tell the HSE that abortion is indeed against the law in this country!

Please complain.

webmaster@taoiseach.gov.ie
minister's_office@health.irlgov.ie
dara.purcell@hse.ie

St Benedict, pray for us

2011-07-11T18:58:00.000+01:00

Today is the feast of St Benedict. I carry a St Benedict Medal in my purse, I can not remember where exactly I got it, but when I see it, I think "protection from the Devil". Below is a more detailed explanation of the medal.

The Saint Benedict Medal

On the face of the medal is the image of Saint Benedict. In his right hand he holds the cross, the Christian's symbol of salvation. The cross reminds us of the zealous work of evangelizing and civilizing England and Europe carried out mainly by the Benedictine monks and nuns, especially for the sixth to the ninth/tenth centuries.

Rule and Raven

In St. Benedict's left hand is his Rule for Monasteries that could well be summed up in the words of the Prolog exhorting us to "walk in God's ways, with the Gospel as our guide."

On a pedestal to the right of St. Benedict is the poisoned cup, shattered when he made the sign of the cross over it. On a pedestal to the left is a raven about to carry away a loaf of poisoned bread that a jealous enemy had sent to St. Benedict.

C. S. P. B.

Above the cup and the raven are the Latin words: Crux s. patris Benedicti (The Cross of our holy father Benedict). On the margin of the medal, encircling the figure of Benedict, are the Latin words: Eius in obitu nostro praesentia muniamur! (May we be strengthened by his presence in the hour of our death!). Benedictines have always regarded St. Benedict as a special patron of a happy death. He himself died in the chapel at Montecassino while standing with his arms raised up to heaven, supported by the brothers of the monastery, shortly after St. Benedict had received Holy Communion.

Monte Cassino

Below Benedict we read: ex SM Casino MDCCCLXXX (from holy Monte Cassino, 1880). This is the medal struck to commemorate the 1400th anniversary of the birth of Saint Benedict.

Reverse Side of the Medal

Crux mihi lux

On the back of the medal, the cross is dominant. On the arms of the cross are the initial letters of a rhythmic Latin prayer: Crux sacra sit mihi lux! Nunquam draco sit mihi dux! (May the holy cross be my light! May the dragon never be my guide!).

In the angles of the cross, the letters C S P B stand for Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti (The cross of our holy father Benedict).

Peace

Above the cross is the word pax (peace), that has been a Benedictine motto for centuries. Around the margin of the back of the medal, the letters V R S N S M V - S M Q L I V B are the initial letters, as mentioned above, of a Latin prayer of exorcism against Satan: Vade retro Satana! Nunquam suade mihi vana! Sunt mala quae libas. Ipse venena bibas! (Begone Satan! Never tempt me with your vanities! What you offer me is evil. Drink the poison yourself!)

Todays Gospel : The Parable of the Sower

2011-07-10T09:40:00.002+01:00

Our hearts are a garden full of different kinds of soil, and daily we are presented with opportunities to let the great Gardener go to work in them. If we will let Him, He will break up the hard soil, clear up the rocks that make the shallow soil shallow, pull the choking weeds and continue to fertilize the areas where the soil is rich and deep.

Janet Smith and Dr Phil Boyle to speak at Letterkenny Conference

2011-07-07T17:17:00.000+01:00

News has just reached me of an exciting conference taking place in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal (my home town), on August 11th and 12th.

Janet E. Smith and Dr Phil Boyle will speak at the "Challenges to Marriage and Family" conference. It is a two day event, day one is for clergy, day two is for lay people. Janet E. Smith is a giant in her field.

‘No-one has done more in the last twenty years than Professor Janet Smith to explain to anyone with an open mind why Catholic teaching on human sexuality makes sense and is the closest fit we have with human nature. She brings that most controversial of papal encyclicals, Humanae Vitae, to life and explains why the challenge is worth meeting.” (David Quinn, religious and social affairs commentator of the ‘Iona Institute’)

Professor Janet E. Smith will be the main speaker, and will deliver numerous talks on marriage and family life, in the Mount Errigal Hotel, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. Her presentations will be very valuable for those who wish to gain a deeper understanding of Family, Marriage and related issues. Professor Smith will tackle a host of contentious and difficult questions arising from Humanae Vitae (Papal Encyclical on the regulation of births). Hopefully her teaching will raise awareness, offer clarification, and help people to reconcile their experience with the teaching of the Catholic Church.

Dr. Phil Boyle, Director of Fertility Care in the Galway Clinic, will also speak. He will give a presentation on the “Ethical Treatment for the Infertile couple”. Dr Philip Boyle offers hope to couples with unexplained infertility, and those who suffer miscarriage. Using Natural Procreative technology (NaPro), he draws on the most up-to-date medical information combined with the most up-to-date surgical advances, and applies them to suit the individual couple. His approach attempts to fix the problems that cause infertility. These techniques are morally acceptable, much less costly than IVF, and most importantly they work.

I am delighted that this event is taking place, unfortunately I will be unable to attend, but I will pray for its success, and I will spread the word to as many people as possible.

Seminar for Priests: Thursday 11th August.

Seminar for Laity: Friday 12th August

Registration inc. coffee/tea:

€40 – €20 for students and unemployed.

For bookings or more information contact:

07491 –21021/087–9141606.

Email: raphoe2011@yahoo.ie

Do your bit to prevent abortion being legalised in Ireland

2011-07-05T21:13:00.000+01:00

The Prolife Campaign needs your help. Can you help? Will you help? Send a virtual postcard, it will only take a minute. Also, send this link to your family and friends.

Image from Prolife Campaign's website.

Click to send a postcard

Rally for Life 2011 Photos

2011-07-03T15:56:00.000+01:00

Will I see you at the RALLY FOR LIFE?

2011-07-02T12:56:00.000+01:00

O Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in You

2011-07-01T09:43:00.001+01:00

Prayer of Trust in the Sacred Heart

In all my temptations, I place my trust in Thee, O Sacred Heart of Jesus.

In all my weaknesses, I place my trust in Thee, O Sacred Heart of Jesus.

In all my difficulties, I place my trust in Thee, O Sacred Heart of Jesus.

In all my trials, I place my trust in Thee, O Sacred Heart of Jesus.

In all my sorrows, I place my trust in Thee, O Sacred Heart of Jesus.

In all my work, I place my trust in You, O Sacred Heart of Jesus.

In every failure, I place my trust in Thee, O Sacred Heart of Jesus.

In every discouragement, I place my trust in Thee, O Sacred Heart of Jesus.

In life and in death, I place my trust in Thee, O Sacred Heart of Jesus.

In time and in eternity, I place my trust in Thee, O Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Amen.

Voris, Maynooth and Ledwidth

2011-06-29T23:07:00.000+01:00

I am not a fan of "The Vortex", but since this video concerns the Church in Ireland, here it is.

Priesthood and the Forgiveness of Sins

2011-06-29T16:26:00.000+01:00

Here is a an excerpt from Pope Benedict XVI's homily, on the Feast of Sts Peter and Paul, the 60th anniversary of his priestly ordination.

“No longer servants, but friends”: at that moment I knew deep down that these words were no mere formality, nor were they simply a quotation from Scripture. I knew that, at that moment, the Lord himself was speaking to me in a very personal way. In baptism and confirmation he had already drawn us close to him, he had already received us into God’s family. But what was taking place now was something greater still. He calls me his friend. He welcomes me into the circle of those he had spoken to in the Upper Room, into the circle of those whom he knows in a very special way, and who thereby come to know him in a very special way. He grants me the almost frightening faculty to do what only he, the Son of God, can legitimately say and do: I forgive you your sins. He wants me – with his authority – to be able to speak, in his name (“I” forgive), words that are not merely words, but an action, changing something at the deepest level of being. I know that behind these words lies his suffering for us and on account of us. I know that forgiveness comes at a price: in his Passion he went deep down into the sordid darkness of our sins. He went down into the night of our guilt, for only thus can it be transformed. And by giving me authority to forgive sins, he lets me look down into the abyss of man, into the immensity of his suffering for us men, and this enables me to sense the immensity of his love.

The St Genesius Blog

From Tulsa to Stamullen

St Genesius Film Society present "Chariots of Fire"

The devious Meccano plan....

It's Friday...

The homilies of a hermit

A Prayer for Humility

Litany of Humility

May the example of the Holy Family inspire all Christian families to be schools of prayer

The Holy Innocents

St John the Evangelist, pray for us

Happy Christmas

A last minute note to Santa

Truly hilarious

Film Club Reminder

St Lucy, pray for us

St Genesius Film Club: Nativity!

The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Come along and join the "Vigil of Hope"

The Church is a safe place for our children

Praying for Vocations

Patsy McGarry and Breda O'Brien on Vincent Brown

Inclusivity for everyone except Catholics

The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Can I tempt you?

Simple.

We can do better than this!

Passion of the Christ- In Christ Alone

Is the Irish Government Anti-Catholic?

Iona survey shows the Irish government's hostility towards the Catholic Church

Make sure you tell your politicians what you think...

Our Government Hates Our Church

Photo dropping

A Pilgrimage Not to be Missed

All Souls Day

Eucharistic Youth Congress in Letterkenny

Where the presidential candidates stand on the right to life

Pope Benedict XVI: Accompany me in prayer as I journey tomorrow to Assisi

Young Nuns BBC1 tonight

Blessed John Paul II, pray for us

A song for those who are struggling

Event Annoucement

The Bell (2)

The Bell..............

Remember YOUR Friday Prayer and Penance

Steve Jobs, Requiescat in pace

Event Notice

Have you volunteered yet?

Dana urgently needs your help!

St Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face, pray for us

Dana fought a good fight on the "Late Late Show"

Remember it's Friday : Time for Prayer and Penance

Norris: No, Nay, Never!

Pro Life Campaign’s National Conference 2011

Dana will be on the ballot paper for the Presidential election

I hate RTE

83% angry at State's attitude in past to child abuse, says report

St Genesius Film Society

One in Four Annual Report 14th Sept 2011

CARI's Annual Report. I await some moral outrage from our Media!

Since everyone else seems to be running for president...........

Get thee to a confessional............

HSE Abortion "Mastercla​ss" protest - Maynooth NUI Friday 16 September

Remember your Friday Prayer and Penance!

‘BUY ONE – GET ONE FREE’ HOUSE OFFER!

Proud to be Catholic, Ashamed to be Irish

Interesting.

The Iona Institute | 8 Sept 11 Seal of Confession issue is not “bogus”

More Denial: Abortion and Mental health

The Association of Catholic Cowards

A Nation in Denial. What about the 97%?

Text of Vatican Response Concerning the Cloyne Report

Stupidity

St Monica, pray for us

Remember your Friday prayer and penance!

St Genesius, pray for us

St Rose of Lima, pray for us

Approaching feast of St Genesius

Back to life, back to reality

Friday Prayer and Penance for the Church in Ireland

HSE Abortion "Masterclass" protest - Maynooth NUI Friday 16 September