FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME:

• February:
• 1st – 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Mark 1: 21-28.
• 2nd – Presentation of the Lord. Luke 2: 22-40. Candle mass day.
• 3rd – St. Blaise – Mark 5: 21-43.
• 8th – 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Mark 1: 29-39.
• 11th – Our Lady of Lourdes. Mark 7: 14-23. World Day of Prayer for the sick.
• 15th – 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Mark 1: 40-45.
• 18th – Ash Wednesday. Matthew 6: 1-6, 16-18.
• 22nd – 1st Sunday of Lent. Mark 1: 12-15.

MASS INTENTIONS:.    

• THIS WEEKEND:
• Sat.  7.30pm:      Billy O’Brien, Main Street.
• Sun 10.00am:     Sheila Casey, Glenamuckla.
• Sun 11.30am:     Months mind mass for the late Peggy Mackessy, Lower Road.
• NEXT WEEKEND:   
• Sat.  7.30pm:      Diarmuid O’Brien, Meenatariffe.
• Sun 10.00am:     Deceased members of the Finucane Family, Inchintotane.
• Sun 11.30am:     Joseph Raleigh, Kerry Road.
• MASS TIMES NEXT WEEK:
• Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday – Mass at 10am.
• Thursday – Liturgy of the Word at 10am.

Death: We offer our sincere sympathy and prayers to the family of the late Ann Fitzgibbon, Duarigle who died last weekend. May she rest in peace.

FIRST FRIDAY: Next Friday, 6th February is First Friday. Both morning masses, Taur at 9am and Newmarket at 10am will be offered as November masses for the dead. The sick of the parish will be visited on Wednesday and Friday.

BLESSING OF CANDLES:  Will take place during 10am mass on Monday next, 2nd February. Please place your candle at the front of the Altar before mass.

FEAST OF ST. BLAISE: Tuesday, 3rd February is Feast of St. Blaise. Blessing of throats will take place at the 10am mass and also at an additional mass at 7.30pm.

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION:  OFFERTORY: €2,367.00,  SHRINES:€ 83.00, DIOCESAN FUND : €000.00, SPECIAL COLLECTION: €0,000.00. Sincere thanks for your generosity.

SPRING LENTEN STATION MASSES: As the season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, 18th February it is again time to arrange the Lent Station Masses. Families wishing to host a Station Mass in their area are asked to contact Breeda in the Parish Office on 029-22679 to make the necessary arrangements.

MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGES: May 20th and September 2nd. Both pilgrimages accompanied by Spiritual directors. A deposit now secures discounted price. Contact Pat on 029-60221 or 087-2505528.

SHRINES OF EUROPE PILGRIMAGE: Includes Fatima, Lourdes and Santiago de Compestella from 30th September to 7th October. Spiritual Director – Fr. Donal O’ Brien. More information from O’ Driscoll Travel on 026-41342.

YOUTH CHOIR PRACTICE: Will be held on Monday night next, 2nd February at 7.30pm in St. Mary’s Church. New members are most welcome. It is planned that the youth choir will sing once a month.

TAUR CENTENARY: The next planning meeting will be held in Taur Church on Wednesday, 4th February at 7.30pm. All welcome.

HISTORIC GRAVES SURVEYING: IRD Duhallow is seeking to train communities in historic graveyard recording and publication. Would you like to get involved ? Volunteers from the area of Taur are asked to attend training on Friday, 27th and Saturday, 28th February from 9.30am to 4pm.Please give your name to Mary Creedon on 029-60633.

MONTHLY MASS: In honour of Pio of Pietrelcina will be celebrated in St. Joseph’s Church, Lismire on Wednesday, February 4th at 8pm. All welcome.

ENROLMENT AND OPEN EVENING: For first year pupils will take place in Boherbue Comprehensive School on Tuesday, 3rd February from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

TRAINING COURSE: On Buteyko Breathing Technique will commence in Glash School on Thursday, 12th February @ 7.30pm for 3 weeks. For details and to book your place phone 087-2888840.

NEWMARKET DRAMA GROUP: Auditions for our forthcoming play will take place in Meelin Hall on Wednesday, 4th  February at 8pm for both male and female roles. People with set design and construction are also welcome.

SHORT BUT SWEET: Pete and Tony were great baseball fans. They were talking about baseball one day & Pete says, “I    wonder if there is baseball in heaven.” Tony replies, “I don’t know.” Soon after, Tony dies. One day he calls Pete from heaven and they’re talking and Pete says, “Tony, you gotta’ tell me. Is there baseball in heaven?” Tony says, “Well, I have some good news & some bad news. The good news is that there is baseball in heaven. The bad news is that you’re playing tomorrow!”

SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK: “There are times in life when people must know when not to let go. Balloons are designed to teach small children this.” Terry Prachett

“You know how everyone’s always saying seize the moment? I don’t know. I kind of think it’s the other way around. You know. Like the moment seizes you.”         Boyhood

“Yes, there are many things that are wrong with the world, so many things to be against – but you can’t be against everything. At some point you have to begin to stand for something. Maybe the most    important question is not what am I against, but what do I stand for?”    Jon Foreman

“I don’t know where I’m going, but I’m on my way.” Carl Sandbury

“We do have a lot in common. The same earth, the same air, the same sky. Maybe if we started looking at what’s the same instead of looking at what’s   different….well who knows?” Meowth

ONE SENTENCE SERMON: The worst thing is watching someone drown and not being able to convince them that they can save  themselves by just standing up !

WEBSITE OF THE WEEK: www.winterready.ie. Severe weather challenges all of us. winterready gives advice and tips how to cope with the bad weather.

SUNDAY 25th: 3rd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME:

MASS INTENTIONS:.  

• THIS WEEKEND:
• Sat.  7.30pm:      Margaret O’Keeffe, Commons & Mary Scully, The Island.
• Sun 10.00am:     Months mind mass for the late Ned Murphy, U.K. & Taur.
• Sun 11.30am:     Funeral mass for the late Pauline Murphy, Meenatariffe.
• NEXT WEEKEND:
• Sat.  7.30pm:      Billy O’Brien, Main Street.
• Sun 10.00am:     Sheila Casey, Glenamuckla.
• Sun 11.30am:     Months mind mass for the late                 Peggy Mackessy, Lower Road.
• MASS TIMES NEXT WEEK:
• Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and        Saturday – Mass at 10am.
• Thursday – Liturgy of the Word at 10am.

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTIONS: OFFERTORY: €1,893.00, SHRINES: € 153.00, DIOCESAN FUND : €000.00, SPECIAL COLLECTION: €0,000.00. Sincere thanks for your generosity.

Death: We offer our sincere sympathy and prayers to the family of the late Pauline Murphy, Meenatariffe who died during the week. May she rest in peace.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK: Takes place from January 25th to 31st. This years theme is Catholic Schools: Called to Serve. For more information log onto www.catholicschools.ie

SPRING LENTEN STATION MASSES: As the season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, 18th February it is again time to arrange the Lent Station Masses. Families wishing to host a Station Mass in their area are asked to contact Breeda in the Parish Office on 029-22679 to make the necessary arrangements.

FEAST OF ST. BLAISE: Tuesday, 3rd February is Feast of St. Blaise. Blessing of throats will take place at the 10am mass and also at an additional mass at 7.30pm.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL: St. Vincent De Paul will hold their church gate collection before masses next weekend, 31st January & 1st February. Please give a little it will help a lot.

THE PRIORY INSTITUTE: Is Ireland’s only accredited premier institution offering theology courses both online and in a traditional classroom setting. For more information contact 01-4048124 or log onto www.prioryinstitute.ie.

SPRING LENTEN STATION MASSES: As the season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, 18th February it is again time to arrange the Lent Station Masses. Families wishing to host a Station Mass in their area are asked to contact Breeda in the Parish Office on 029-22679 to make the necessary arrangements.

IRD DUHALLOW: The following programmes are being offered by IRD Duhallow. Contact Louise on 029-60633 for more  information or to book you place.Time Management – Thursday, 29th January at 7pm. Learn how to get Work Life Balance, Prioritising, Goal Setting and Managing your time more efficiently. Start Your Own Business – 18th & 25th February and 4th, 11th & 18th March. Cost €50. Presentation Skills - 1 Day course in March. Learn the fundamentals of powerpoint and to make a sales pitch. Internet Awareness & Safety Seminar: Will be held in the J.O.K. Institute on Thursday, 12th   February at 7.30pm for parents, teachers, guardians etc. Guest speaker, Dr. Maureen Griffin will help parents to educate their children on how to behave safely while online. Questions and Answers session will be available. To book contact Helen on 029-60633.

COLÁISTE TREASA, KANTURK: Open night for incoming first years will be held on Thursday, 29th January from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

BOHERBUE COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL: Enrolment & open evening for first year pupils will take place in the school on Tuesday, 3rd February from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

SCHOOL REUNION: Knocktoosh National School Reunion will take place on Easter Sunday, 5th April in the Devon Inn Hotel. Looking forward to a great get together. More details later.

FIRST RESPONDERS: Moves are underway to establish local first responder teams to attend emergencies in the area under the guidance of the Ambulance Service.  Full training provided. A public meeting for the local community of Kanturk and Newmarket First Responders will take place in the CYMS hall, Newmarket on Thursday, 29th January at 7pm. All welcome to attend. For more information contact Louise Hyde on 085-1800606.

SHORT BUT SWEET: A five year old girl was having one of those trouble-filled days with her mother. It seemed they spent the day arguing back and forth. Finally the mom had enough. “Jenny, go sit in the corner, right now! Don’t get up until I tell you to!” Jenny went to the corner and sat down. In a few minutes she called back, “Mom, I am sitting down on the outside, but I am standing up on the inside!”

SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK:  “A mountain is composed of tiny grains of earth. The ocean is made up of tiny drops of water. Even so, life is but an endless series of little details,    actions, speeches, and thoughts. And the consequences whether good or bad of even the least of them are far – reaching.” Swami Sivananda

“Nobody’s perfect. Well, there was this one guy, but we killed him….” Christopher Moore

“Whether you have a Maruti or a BMW, the road remains the same. Whether you travel economy class or business, your destination doesn’t change. Whether you have a Titan or a Rolex, the time is the same. Whether u have Apple, Samsung or lava,  people who call u remain the same. There is nothing wrong in dreaming a luxurious life. What needs to be taken care of is to not let the NEED become GREED. Because needs can always be met…but greed can never be fulfilled.”Rajinikanth

“The highest reward for a man’s toil is not what he gets for it but what he becomes by it.”  John Ruskin

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” Martin Luther King

“ If we wait until we’ve satisfied all the uncertainties, it may be too late”.      Lee Lacocca

ONE SENTENCE SERMON: I did not create these problems but they are my   problems.

WEBSITE OF THE WEEK: www.quitwithhelp.ie. Quit with Help offers unique and innovative advice to help you quit cigarettes for good.

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS: Count your blessing instead of your crosses, Count your gains instead of your losses. Count your joys instead of your woes, Count your friends instead of your foes. Count your smiles instead of your tears, Count your courage instead of your fears. Count your full years instead of your lean, Count your kind deeds instead of your mean. Count your health instead of your wealth, Love your neighbour as much as yourself.

SUNDAY 18th: 2nd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME:

MASS INTENTIONS:

• THIS WEEKEND:
• Sat.  7.30pm:      Eileen & Paul Kingston.
• Sun 10.00am:     Special Intention.
• Sun 11.30am:     Deceased members of the  McAuliffe & Twomey Family,Newmarket & Meelin.
• NEXT WEEKEND:   
• Sat.  7.30pm:      Margaret O’Keeffe, Commons & Mary Scully, The Island.
• Sun 10.00am:     Months mind mass for the late Ned Murphy, U.K. & Taur.
• Sun 11.30am:     Months mind mass for the late Lillie O’ Donovan, Meens and  her husband Eamonn.
• MASS TIMES NEXT WEEK:
• Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday – Mass at 10am.
• Thursday – Liturgy of the Word at 10am.

Death: We offer our sincere sympathy and prayers to the family of the late Mary Ellen O’ Connor, High Street who died during the week. May she rest in peace.

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTIONS: OFFERTORY: €1,868.00, SHRINES: € 222.00, DIOCESAN FUND : €000.00, FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY: €1,218.00. Sincere thanks for your generosity.

SPRING LENTEN STATION MASSES: As the season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, 18th February it is again time to arrange the Lent Station Masses. Families wishing to host a Station Mass in their area are asked to contact Breeda in the Parish Office on 029-22679 to make the necessary arrangements.

NAOIMI PRE-MARRIAGE COURSE: One full day courses will be held on Saturday, 21st March and Saturday 25th April from 10am to 5pm. Cost €99. To book your place contact 021-4272213  from 9.30am to 1pm.

COUNSELLING & PHYSCHOTHERAPY: With special interest in Spiritual & Pastoral counselling available from Carol McNeill Dunlea BSc. Discounts available. Email counsellinglifetherapy@gmail.com or phone      085-7087236 for more information.

PARISH RADIO: Parishioners who no longer require the use of the Parish Radio at home are asked to return it to the parish office or sacristy at your convenience. Thank you.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK: Takes place from January 25th to 31st. This years theme is Catholic Schools: Called to Serve. For more information log onto www.catholicschools.ie

IRD DUHALLOW: Internet Awareness & Safety Seminar: Will be held in the J.O.K. Institute on Thursday, 12th   February at 7.30pm for parents, teachers, guardians etc. Guest speaker, Dr. Maureen Griffin will help parents to educate their children on how to behave safely while online. Questions and Answers session will be available. To book contact Helen on 029-60633. ‘Revamp’ Furniture Sale: Will take place in the James O’ Keeffe Institute on 30th & 31st January from 12noon to 6pm. Restored items will be on sale at a reduced price to deserving homes. This service is primarily aimed at low income families,    elderly etc. Contact 029-60633 for more information.

BOHERBUE COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL:  Enrolment and Open Evening: For First Year pupils will take place in the school on Tuesday, 3rd February from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. All first year students and parents welcome. Yoga Class: Is being offered commencing on Tuesday, 27th January. All levels catered for. 7.30pm to 9pm. Duration 8 weeks. Cost €65. To book contact the school on 029-76032.

TAUR CENTENARY: Will take place on Sunday, 17th May at 10am in the Church of the Holy Spirit. The next meeting in preparation for this will be held in Taur Church on Wednesday, 21st January at 7.30pm. All welcome.

YOUTH CHOIR: Will sing on Saturday, 24th January at 7.30pm in St. Mary’s Church. It is hoped that the youth choir will sing once a month. If interested in getting involved please contact Treasa or Sinead.

FIRST RESPONDERS: Moves are underway to establish local first responder teams to attend emergencies in the area under the guidance of the Ambulance Service. A public meeting for the local community of Kanturk and Newmarket First Responders will take place in the CYMS hall, Newmarket on Thursday, 29th January at 8.30pm. All welcome to attend.

GARDA STATION NEWMARKET: Current opening hours are from 10am to 12 noon, Monday to Friday. Outside of these hours please contact 029-22160 or 029-20680. Emergency number  999 or 112.

SHORT BUT SWEET: One day Adam was out hunting with his two boys and came up to the Garden of Eden where he and Eve had been kicked out for eating the forbidden fruit. Adam was staring at the Garden and one of his boys said, “Daddy, what is wrong with you? Why are you crying?” Adam wiped a tear and said, “Boys, that is the Garden of Eden right there…….that’s where we used to live ‘til Momma ate us out of house and home!”

SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK: “People show their inner qualities when things go badly. It is easy to look good when things go well. Only good people will still be good when things go badly; adversity reveals character.”  Mark Harrison

“With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be  happy.”    Max Ermann

“Time, time is very precious to me. I don’t know how much I have left and I have some things I would like to say. Hopefully at the end, I will have said something that will be important to other people too.”  Jim Valvano [died two months later from bone cancer]

“The day the child realizes that all adults are imperfect, he becomes an adolescent; the day he forgives them, he becomes an adult; the day he forgives  himself he becomes wise.”                  Alden Nowlan

“The strong – man is not one who wrestles well but the strong man is one who controls himself when he is in a fit of rage.” Muhammad ibn Abdullah

ONE SENTENCE SERMON: It is sad when the people who gave you the best memories……become a memory.

WEBSITE OF THE WEEK: www.change4life.co.uk – Change4Life has loads of healthy eating tips and recipes, and fun ways to exercise. Change4Life is here to help you and your kids eat well and move more.

SUNDAY 11th: THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD:

POPES INTENTIONS: Universal: Peace – That those from diverse religious traditions and all people of good will may work together for peace. Evangelisation: Consecrated Life – That in this year dedicated to consecrated life, religious men and women may rediscover the joy of following Christ and strive to serve the poor with zeal.

MASS INTENTIONS:

• THIS WEEKEND: 
• Sat.  7.30pm:      Nancy Hayes, Charleville Road.
• Sun 10.00am:     Willie Francis Fitzpatrick, Taur.
• Sun 11.30am:     Special Intention.
• NEXT WEEKEND:
• Sat.  7.30pm:      Eileen & Paul Kingston.
• Sun 10.00am:
• Sun 11.30am:     Deceased members of the McAuliffe & Twomey Family, Newmarket & Meelin.
• MASS TIMES NEXT WEEK:
• Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday – Mass at 10am.
• Thursday – Liturgy of the Word at 10am.

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTIONS:   OFFERTORY: €1,765.00, SHRINES: € 461.00, DIOCESAN FUND : €384.00, SPECIAL COLLECTION:  €000.00. Sincere thanks for your generosity.

SPRING LENTEN STATION MASSES: As the season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, 18th February it is again time to arrange the Lent Station Masses. Families wishing to host a Station Mass in their area are asked to contact Breeda in the Parish Office on 029-22679 to make the necessary arrangements.

GETTING MARRIED?: Couples intending to marry must give three months notice to the state. Please contact the Mallow office, 3 West End, Mallow on 022-50230 to arrange. Also, a pre marriage course must be completed. ACCORD offers courses at local centres. For more information log onto www.accord.ie or phone 025-31899.

BAPTISMS IN THE PARISH : Baptisms take place on pre-arranged dates i.e. 1st Sunday of each month at 12.15pm and on the 3rd Saturday at 4pm. Please contact the parish office on  029-22679 to book your baptism.

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK: Takes place from January 25th to 31st. This years theme is Catholic Schools: Called to Serve. For more  information log onto www.catholicschools.ie

SAFEGUARDING OF CHILDREN: If a person has a concern/allegation regarding child abuse, contact Tusla on 022-54100, your local garda station or the Diocesan Designated Liaison Person, Mr. Bill Meagher or the Deputy Designated Liaison Person, Fr. Patrick Winkle on 086-0368999. The following   services are also available: Towards Healing -1800303416, HSE National Helpline -1850241850

GLASH SCHOOL: The newly refurbished Glash school will be officially opened on Sunday, 11th January at 3pm. Entertainment & refreshments provided. All welcome.

GET FIT IN 2015: A combination of Aerobics, Circuit Training and floor exercises for both men and women will commence in Glash school on Tuesday, 13th January for 8 weeks. Cost €50. Contact John Hartnett, Duhallow Fitness on 086-3969981 for further details.

INFORMATION EVENING: Are you worried about obesity, excess weight,    diabetes or your general health? Grove Health Spa invites you to an information evening on Wednesday, 14th January @ 7.30pm. Grove Health Centre in collaboration with the Dept. of Public Health U.C.C has proven that health lifestyle changes can result in sustainable weight loss & improved health. Call 022-25518 to book your free place for the 14th or join our 10 week programme commencing 20th/21st Jan. Take that first step to a healthy 2015.

NEWMARKET JUVENILE GAA:
Annual General Meeting: Will take place on Sunday, 18th January in the Clubhouse at 6.30pm. All are welcome to attend. A Victory Celebration: Will be held in the Hi-land on Friday, 23rd January at 7.30pm to mark their fantastic year in 2014.    Tickets for this event are on sale at the AGM. Ticket Prices include meal + disco. Adults €10 (hot meal) & Juveniles €7 (finger food). Medal presentations will be made by a special guest on the night to U8/10/12/14/16 & minors. Great night assured.

NEW YEAR CLASSES IN THE CYMS: Kangoo: 087-2155404 – Patsy. Metafit: 087-7526209 – Alan. Foroige: 087-7657977 – Marie.Unislim: 087-3950063 – Eileen. Fitzgerald Academy of Dance  : 087-2155404 – Christine. Mangan School of Dance: 087-6407122– Nora. Nolan School of Dance: 086-3516386 – Julie. Parent & Toddler Group: 087-9592585 – Alison. To book the CYMS contact 087-7771994 and follow us on Facebook @ Newmarket CYMS.

SHORT BUT SWEET: It was a great day for a great Irish wedding when Mike Murphy and Maureen Muldoon tied the knot. Everyone in the village was there. To kick things off at the reception, the DJ yelled, “OK now, will all you married guys go stand next to the one person who has made your life worth living.” All the men went and stood next to their moms!!

SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK: “Often, it’s not the terrorist act that changes the world, it’s the response of the victims that does.” Dan Carlin

“Just because your pain is understandable, doesn’t mean your behaviour is acceptable.” Steve Maraboli

“The most important thing in life is to stop saying ‘I wish’ and start saying ‘I will’. Consider nothing impossible, then treat possibilities as probabilities.”  David Copperfield

“In your day, surround yourself with people who love you, motivate you, encourage you and just make you feel good about being you.” Brigitte Nicole

“Everything we do is a choice. Oatmeal or cereal.   Highway or sidestreets. Kiss her or keep her. We make choices and live with the consequences. If someone gets hurt along the way, we ask for forgiveness. It’s the best anyone can do.” Ned the Piemaker

ONE SENTENCE SERMON: What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it !

WEBSITE OF THE WEEK: www.rollercoaster.ie – For the ups and downs of pregnancy and parenting.

SUNDAY 4th: 2nd SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS

MASS INTENTIONS:.

THIS WEEKEND:

• Sat.  7.30pm:      Eileen Aherne, Emmet Place.
• Sun 10.00am:     Michael & Hannah O’Leary, Glenamuckla
• Sun 11.30am:     Special Intention.

FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY: 6th January.

• Mon. 7.30pm:     Months mind mass for the late Denis McAuliffe, Newmarket &  London.
• Tues.10.00am :   Special Intention.
• Tues. 11.30am:   Connie & Catherine Curtin & their son Connie, Meelin.

NEXT WEEKEND:

• Sat.  7.30pm:      Nancy Hayes, Charleville Road.
• Sun 10.00am:     Willie Francis Fitzpatrick, Taur.
• Sun 11.30am:     Special Intention.

MASS TIMES NEXT WEEK:

• Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday – Mass at 10am.
• Tuesday – Feast of the Epiphany at 11.30am.
• Thursday – Liturgy of the Word at 10am.

FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY: Tuesday, 6th January is the Feast of the Epiphany and     a holy day of obligation.Vigil mass, Monday 5th @ 7.30pm and Tuesday @ 10am in Taur and 11.30am in Newmarket.

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTIONS: OFFERTORY:€1,927.00, SHRINES: € 383.00, DIOCESAN FUND : €000.00, SPECIAL COLLECTION:€000.00. Sincere thanks for your generosity.

Baptism: We welcome into our Christian community, Dylan McAuliffe.

Death: We offer our sincere sympathy and prayers to  the family of the late Ned Murphy, Leamington Spa and formerly of Taur who died recently. Funeral mass will take place in Taur Church on Monday, 5th January at 1pm.

GLASH SCHOOL: The newly refurbished Glash school will be officially opened on Sunday the 11th of January at 3pm. Music and light refreshments will be served . All welcome.

GET FIT IN 2015: A combination of Aerobics, Circuit Training and floor exercises for both men and women will commence in Glash school on Tuesday, 13th January for 8 weeks. Cost €50. Contact John Hartnett, Duhallow Fitness on 086-3969981 for further details.

NEWMARKET JUVENILE GAA:
Annual General Meeting: Will take place on Sunday, 11th January in the Clubhouse at 6.30pm. All are welcome to attend.

A Victory Celebration: Will be held in the Hi-land on Friday, 23rd January at 7.30pm to mark their fantastic year in 2014.Tickets for this event are on sale from Juvenile Committee  Members. Ticket Prices include meal + disco. Adults €10 (hot meal) & Juveniles €7 (finger food). Medal presentations will be made by a special guest on the night to U8/10/12/14/16 & minors. Great night assured. Everyone is welcome.

SHORT BUT SWEET: Two members of the parish council were discussing their pastor’s preaching. “His homilies are like chickens with their heads cut off,” one said. “Whenever you think his homily is done, it just jumps back up and heads off in another direction.”

SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK:

“When you’re a little kid, you’re a bit of everything; Scientist, Philosopher, Artist. Sometimes it seems like growing up is giving these up one at a time.”Kevin Arnold

“I have buried bodies of the deceased of different ages, sizes, and weights. Those small bodies I’ve been burying since yesterday felt much heavier than any of the big ones I’ve buried’  Peshawar gravedigger [Pakistan]

“Merry Christmas to all. A Pagan holiday {B.C.} becomes a Religious holiday {A.D.}. Which then becomes a shopping holiday {USA}.”            Neil De Grasse Tyson

“A man cannot remake himself without suffering for he is both the marble and the sculptor.”     Alexis Carrel

“I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year “Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.” And he replied, “Go into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way.”       Minnie Louise Haskins

ONE SENTENCE SERMON: Young people can run fast – but old people know  the way.

WEBSITE OF THE WEEK: www.simon.ie – With homelessness being in the news a lot recently find out about the   Simon community and how they help the homeless.

I AM THE NEW YEAR……. I am the new year. I am an unspoiled page in your book of time.I am your next chance at the art of living.I am your opportunity to practice what you have learned about life during the last twelve months. All that you sought and didn’t find is hidden in me,  waiting for you to search it but with more determination. All the good that you tried for and didn’t achieve is mine to grant when you have fewer conflicting desires. All that you dreamed but didn’t dare to do, all that you hoped but did not will, all the faith that you claimed but did not have ……these slumber lightly, waiting to be awakened by the touch of a strong purpose.I am your opportunity to renew your allegiance to Him who said, ‘Behold, I make all things new.’” I am the New Year.

MY WISHES FOR YOU MY FRIEND IN 2015: Great beginning for January – Love for February, Peace for March – No worries for April,  Fun for May – Joy for June and July, Achievements for August, Harmony for September, Good fortune for October & November, Happiness for December.

SUNDAY 28th: FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY:

MASS INTENTIONS:.

THIS WEEKEND:

• Sat.  7.30pm:      Billy O’Connor, Castlecourt.
• Sun 10.00am:     Donal McAuliffe, Taur.
• Sun 11.30am:     Joan & Jack Burke, Charleville Rd

NEXT WEEKEND:

• Sat.  7.30pm:      Eileen Aherne, Emmet Place.
• Sun 10.00am:     Michael & Hannah O’Leary, Glenamuckla
• Sun 11.30am:     Special Intention.

THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD: 6th January.

• Mon. 7.30pm:     Months mind mass for the late Denis McAuliffe, Newmarket & London.
• Tues.10.00am:
• Tues. 11.30am:   Connie & Catherine Curtin & their son Connie, Meelin.

MASS TIMES NEXT WEEK:

• Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and      Saturday – Mass at 10am.
• Tuesday – Liturgy of the Word at 10am.

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTIONS: OFFERTORY:   €3,178.00, SHRINES: € 202.00, DIOCESAN FUND :  €000.00, SPECIAL COLLECTION: €000.00. Sincere thanks for your generosity.

Baptism: We welcome into our Christian community, Daniel John O’Riordan

FIRST FRIDAY: Next Friday, 2nd January is First Friday. Both morning masses, Taur at 9am and Newmarket at 10am will be offered as November masses for the dead.

THANK YOU: Thank you to all who prepared Newmarket and Taur churches for Christmas and all who took part in the Christmas ceremonies. A special thanks to everyone who attended the ceremonies. Fr. Francis would also like to thank everyone for their kindness and generosity over the Christmas period, for your Christmas offerings and personal gifts and wish you all a very happy and peaceful 2015.

CLONFERT GRAVEYARD: Clonfert Graveyard Committee would like to thank everyone who supported them during 2014, especially the wonderful volunteers who gave their time so generously on our ‘clean up’ Saturdays.

NEWMARKET JUVENILE GAA:
Annual General Meeting: Will take place on Sunday, 11th January in the Clubhouse at 6.30pm. All are welcome to attend.                                                                                                                                                                                 A Victory Celebration: Will be held in the Hi-land on Friday, 23rd January at 7.30pm to mark their fantastic year in 2014.Tickets for this event will be on sale over Christmas from Juvenile Committee Members. Ticket Prices include meal + disco. Adults €10 (hot meal) & Juveniles €7 (finger food). Medal presentations will be made by a special guest on the night to U8/10/12/14/16 & minors. Great night assured. Everyone is welcome.

CONFIDENTIAL HELPLINES:

• Samaritans:              1850609090
• Teen-Line:               1800833634
• Life Suicide Prev.    1800247100
• Console                    1800201890
• Connect                   1800477477
• Cura                          1850622626
• St.Vincent De Paul  087-9333212

FAMILY: There’s a special kind of closeness, that a family only knows, That begins with childhood trust And deepens as you grow. There’s a special kind of happiness In sharing little things, The laughter, smiles and quiet talks That daily life brings. There’s a special kind of comfort In knowing your family’s there, To back you up, to cheer you up To understand and care. Of all the treasures life may bring Your family means the most,And whether near or far apart That love will hold you close.

MY WISHES FOR YOU FOR 2015! When you are lonely I wish you love. When you are down I wish you  joy. When you are troubled I wish you peace. When things look empty I wish you hope. May you be surrounded by Happiness, Peace and Joy always. Wishing you all a Happy New Year!

SHORT BUT SWEET: A little girl was pushing the limits of her mother’s very last nerve. Mom was nearing the end of a hectic season of cooking, cleaning, shopping, wrapping and church stuff in the days before Christmas. She was also nearing the breaking point with her little pre-schooler. Finally the little girl was bathed and ready for bed. As she knelt to say her prayers, Mom listened as her sweet three year old theologian “customized” her evening prayer, …And forgive us our Christmases, as we forgive those who Christmas against us!

SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK:

“Your memory is a monster; you forget – it doesn’t. It simply files things away. It keeps things from you – and summons them to your recall with a will of its own. You think you have a memory, but it has you.” John Irving

“Destiny is a funny thing. You never know how things are going to work out. But if you keep an open mind and an open heart, I promise you will find your own destiny someday.”  Iroh

“Revenge is an admission of pain; a mind that is bowed by injury is not a great mind. The man who has done the injury is either stronger than you or weaker: if he is weaker, spare him, if stronger, spare yourself.”    Lucius Annaeuus Seneca

“Crocodiles are easy. They try to kill and eat you. People are harder. Sometimes they pretend to be your friend first.” Steven Irwin

“Everyone has a choice. Even if you’re trained to hate, you can choose tolerance. You can choose empathy.” Zak Ebrahim

ONE SENTENCE SERMON:  Having a rough morning? Place your hand over you heart, feel that? That’s called purpose, you’re alive for a reason, don’t give up!

WEBSITE OF THE WEEK: www.123newyear.com/newyear-resolutions 123NewYear offers Fifty amazing New Year Resolution 2015 ideas – there is surely one for you !

SUNDAY 21st: FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT:

MASS INTENTIONS:.

THIS WEEKEND:

• Sat.  7.30pm:    Paul Brosnan, Main Street.
• Sun 10.00am:   Sean, Maggie & Paddy O’ Callaghan, Taur.
• Sun 11.30am:   Timmy & Peggy Taylor, Lisdangan.

CHRISTMAS DAY: These four masses for Christmas will be offered for the intentions of all parishioners.

ST. STEPHEN’S DAY: 10am mass will be offered for the Advent tree intentions

NEXT WEEKEND:

• Sat.  7.30pm:      Billy O’Connor, Castlecourt.
• Sun 10.00am:     Donal McAuliffe, Taur.
• Sun 11.30am:     Joan & Jack Burke, Charleville Rd

CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES:

* Christmas Eve: Taur @ 6pm.  Newmarket @ 7.30pm.

* Christmas Day:     Taur @10am.  Newmarket @ 11.30am .

CHRISTMAS CONFESSIONS:

* Wednesday 24th:    Newmarket @10.30am & Taur @11.30am.

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: OFFERTORY: €2,441.00, SHRINES: € 184.00, DIOCESAN FUND : €000.00, SPECIAL COLLECTION: €000.00. Sincere thanks for your generosity.

Baptisms: We welcome into our Christian community, Máire O’Riordan and Danny James Fitzgerald.

Death: We offer our sincere sympathy and prayers to   the family of the late Hannah O’Sullivan, Demense Avenue who died recently. May she rest in peace.

THE ADVENT PRAYER TREE: This Advent & Christmas, the community wish to remember in their prayers those who will not be able to make it home for Christmas . Please write the name of those you would like to be remembered on the cards provided and place on the tree in St. Mary’s Church.

CAROL SERVICE: Will take place in St. Mary’s Church   before mass on Christmas Eve at 7.10pm.

BLESSING OF BABY JESUS: Please bring your Baby Jesus to mass on Christmas Eve for a special blessing.

CHRISTMAS WISHES: Fr. Francis would like to wish you a very happy and peaceful Christmas and to thank you for your kindness, generosity and support since his arrival to the parish in September.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY: Would like to thank you for your generosity at their recent Christmas collection and throughout 2014 and look forward to your continued support in 2015. Thank you also to those who made private donations , it is very much appreciated. Have a happy, holy and peaceful Christmas.

IRISH CATHOLIC NEWSPAPER: Is available after weekend masses. The 2015 annual subscription is €83.20 or €1.60 weekly.

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT: Will take place on Tuesday, 23rd December at 7.45pm in Holy Cross Church, Charleville. Come and share the magic of the Christmas Christian Story. All welcome

PARISH OFFICE: Please note the parish office will be closed from Wednesday, 24th December to Thursday, 1st      January inclusive. Reopen on Friday, 2nd January.

NEWMARKET JUVENILE GAA: Annual General Meeting: Will take place on Sunday, 11th January in the Clubhouse at 6.30pm. All are welcome to attend.                                                                                                                     A Victory Celebration: Will be held in the Hi-land on Friday, 23rd     January at 7.30pm to mark their fantastic year in 2014.Tickets for this event will be on sale over Christmas from Juvenile Committee Members. Ticket Prices include meal + disco. Adults €10 (hot meal) & Juveniles €7 (finger food). Medal presentations will be made by a special guest on the night to U8/10/12/14/16 & minors. Great night assured. Everyone is welcome.

SHORT BUT SWEET: The priest asked a sign maker in the parish to donate a big sign for the entrance to the church for      Christmas Mass. “Now, do it exactly as I have   written it on this piece of paper,” the priest ordered the man. “And make sure you have it up on time.” Sure enough, as people walked into church for Christmas Mass they found this banner: “Unto us a child is born, ten feet long and three feet wide.”

SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK:

“You will never change your life until you change something you do daily.”  John C. Maxwell

“In an athlete, it is not the legs that go first, it is the enthusiasm that drives the legs.”  Ken Dryden

“If love blinds you from seeing the faults of the one you love, then hatred blinds you from seeing the good things in the one you hate.” Abdul Aziz bin Marquz

“What is a soul? It’s like electricity. We don’t really know what it is, but it’s a force that can light a room.”     Ray Charles

“Faith includes noticing the mess, the emptiness and discomfort, and letting it be there until some light returns.”    Anne Lamott

ONE SENTENCE SERMON: Just remember there is someone out there that is more than happy with less than what you have.

WEBSITE OF THE WEEK: www.saoirsefoundation.com. The Saoirse Foundation’s main goal is to make positive life impacts for children with rare diseases and genetic disorders.

A MOTHER’S PRAYER: God, please bless my children, Care for them as they grow. Fill them with your Spirit to Teach them all you know.Lord, count each hair upon their heads, As they lay down at night, Cover them with loving wing until the morning light. Help me be a mother who is gentle and is kind, Help me give, help me love, bring peace into my mind. Thank you for this family, I love them with all my heart, Watch over them when they are with me, Take care when we’re apart. Lord don’t let them stumble, catch them if they fall, They are precious to me, They are my one and all.

SUNDAY 14th : THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT:

MASS INTENTIONS:. 

THIS WEEKEND:    .

• Sat.  7.30pm:      Paddy O’Connor, Duarigle.
• Sun 10.00am:     Daniel & Nora O’Connell, The Island.
• Sun 11.30am:     Funeral mass for the late Lillie O’Donovan, Meens.

NEXT WEEKEND:

• Sat.  7.30pm:    Paul Brosnan, Main Street.
• Sun 10.00am:   Sean, Maggie & Paddy O’ Callaghan, Taur.
• Sun 11.30am:   Timmy & Peggy Taylor, Lisdangan.

MASS TIMES NEXT WEEK:

• Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday – Mass @10am.
• Thursday – Liturgy of the Word @ 10am.

CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES:     

* Christmas Eve:      Taur @ 6pm, Newmarket @ 7.30pm.

* Christmas Day:     Taur @10am,  Newmarket @ 11.30am  .

CHRISTMAS CONFESSIONS:

* Wednesday 17th:    Newmarket @ 7.30pm

* Wednesday 24th:    Newmarket @10.30am & Taur @11.30am.

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTIONS: OFFERTORY:  €1,769.00, SHRINES:  € 329.00, DIOCESAN FUND :  €350.00, IMMACULATE CONCEPTION: €944.00. Sincere thanks for your generosity.

Deaths: We offer our sincere sympathy and prayers to the families of the late Peggy Mackessy, Lower Road & Lillie O’Donovan, Meens who died during the week. May they rest in peace.

CHRISTMAS VISIT: Fr. Francis will make his Christmas visit to the sick & housebound of the parish on Tuesday, 16th & Friday 19th December at the usual times.

MISSION COLLECTION: Thank you for your kind generosity and support at the recent Parish Mission collection. A total of  €5,100 was collected.

CHRISTMAS DAY SWIM: In aid of Marymount Hospice Homecare Team & Jack & Jill foundation takes place as usual in the Island Wood at 12.30pm. Contact Mary Stack on 029-60444/087-9439612.

ASTROTURF:Demand for the new Astroturf is very high with a few nights fully booked. Some time slots are still available. For information and bookings contact 087-6047400.

HANDBALL ALLEY: A new wall less Handball Alley has just been completed adjacent to the new Astroturf pitch in the GAA grounds .This is a new sport to Newmarket & we hope that over the coming months & years many people will use this facility.

SHORT BUT SWEET: The Sunday school teacher was explaining the difference between right and wrong to her class. “All right, children, let’s take another example,” she said, “if I were to get into a man’s pocket and take his wallet with all his money, what would I be?” Little Mary raised her hand and blurted, “His wife!”

SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK:

“As you start travelling down that road of life, remember this: There are never enough comfort stops. The places you’re going are never on the map. And once you get that map out, you won’t be able to      re-fold it no matter how smart you are. So forget the map, roll down the windows, and whenever you can, pull over and have a picnic.”       Jim Henson

“When someone calls me ugly, I go up to them, smile tenderly and hug them because I know life ain’t easy when you have a seeing disability.”     Mario Balotelli

“I wonder how much of what weighs me down is not mine to carry.” Aditi

“You can’t eat beauty, it doesn’t sustain you. What is fundamentally beautiful is compassion, for     yourself and those around you. That kind of beauty enflames the heart and enchants the soul.  Lupita Nyong’o

“Letting go is the lesson. Letting go is always the lesson. Have you ever noticed how much of our agony is all tied up with craving and loss?” Susan Gordon Lydon

ONE SENTENCE SERMON:         The worst invention in all of human history has been the invention of the clock, I would explain why this is true…but we’re out of time!

WEBSITE OF THE WEEK: www.strangeboat.org – Aims to raise awareness of the need for organ    donation and endeavours to meet the needs of donor families.

MARY’S CHRISTMAS DREAM: ‘I had a dream Joseph. I don’t understand it, not really, but I think it was about a birthday celebration for Our Son. I think that was what it was all about. The people had been preparing for about 6 weeks. They had       decorated the house and bought new clothes. They’d gone shopping many times and bought elaborate gifts. It was peculiar though, because the presents were not for Our Son. They wrapped them in beautiful paper and tied them with lovely bows and stacked them under the tree. Yes, a tree Joseph, right in their house. They decorated the tree also. The branches were full of glowing balls and sparkling ornaments. There was a figure on the top of the tree. It looked like an angel might look. Oh, it was so beautiful. Everyone was laughing and they were very happy. They were all excited about the gifts. They gave the gifts to each other, Joseph, not to Our Son. I don’t think they even know Him. They never mentioned His name. Doesn’t it seem odd for people to go to all that trouble to celebrate someone’s birthday if they don’t know Him? I had the strangest feeling that if Our Son had gone to this celebration, he would have been intruding. Everything was so beautiful, Joseph, and everyone was so happy, but it made me want to cry. How sad for Jesus not to be wanted at His own birthday party. I’m glad it was only a dream. How terrible Joseph, if it had been real! ‘Lets put Christ back into Christmas’

MASS INTENTIONS:.    

THIS WEEKEND:

• Sat.  7.30pm:      Tim & Julia O’ Connor,  Tureendarby.
• Sun 10.00am:     Phil Browne, Kerry Road.
• Sun 11.30am:     Dan & Nellie Daly, Duarigle.

FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION:

• Sun. 7.30pm:      Michael Murphy, Glenlara.
• Mon 10.00am:    Matt & Sheila Dennehy & David McAuliffe, Glountane McElligott.
• Mon 11.30am:    Johnjoe & Nora O’Connor,  Barnacurra.

NEXT WEEKEND:

• Sat. 10am:          Months mind mass for the late Tricia Barry, Scotland & Newmarket.
• Sat.  7.30pm:      Paddy O’Connor, Duarigle.
• Sun 10.00am:     Daniel & Nora O’Connell, The Island.
• Sun 11.30am:     Michaél O’ Keeffe & his mother Hannah Mary, The Sycamores.

MASS TIMES NEXT WEEK:

• Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday – Mass @10am.
• Thursday – No 10am Mass or Liturgy of the Word.

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTIONS :OFFERTORY: €1,871.00, SHRINES:  € 344.00, DIOCESAN FUND :  €000.00,  SPECIAL COLLECTION: €000.00. Sincere thanks for your generosity.

Wedding: Congratulations to Maria Feehan and Danny Hourigan who were married this weekend.

Baptisms: We welcome into our Christian community Emili Helena Walsh Lawlor & Odhrán Denis McLoughlin.

PARISH MISSION – THANKS TO ALL:After months of planning , our parish Mission over the past week was a wonderful celebration of faith & community, and gave everyone present the opportunity to reflect on their lives and journey closer with the Lord through the powerful themes of each day. Thanks to the Redemptorist Mission Team, Fr. Seamus, Fr. Laurence and Niamh who in their organising , singing and   preaching created the great atmosphere of prayer,  reflection and humour that touched us all. A huge thanks to everyone who planned, participated and supported the mission in any way and helped to make the Mission such a success.

THE ADVENT PRAYER TREE: This Advent & Christmas, the community wish to remember in their prayers those who will not be able to make it home for Christmas . A tree has been placed in the Church where people can write the name of those they would like to be remembered on the cards provided.

TAUR CHURCH CENTENARY MASS: Will be celebrated on Sunday, 17th May 2015 at10am in the Church of the Holy Spirit by Bishop William Crean

NEWMARKET GIRLS SCHOOL: Will hold their Nativity play in St. Mary’s Church on Thursday, 11th December @ 7.30pm. All welcome.

SEASONS EATING: A celebration of Christmas Day cooking with Author, Broadcaster and Chef Instructor Frank Moynihan will   be held in Glash Community Centre on Wednesday, 10th December. Seating for 7:45pm. Admission €10.

CHRISTMAS DAY SWIM: The 31st Annual Christmas Day swim takes place as usual in the Island Wood at 12.30pm. The chosen charity this year is the Marymount Hospice Homecare Team, with a donation also being made to the Jack & Jill foundation who provide hospice care for babies and young children. Your support would be greatly appreciated. Sponsorship cards from Mary Stack on 029-60444/087-9439612.

HANDBALL ALLEY: A new wall less Handball Alley has just been completed adjacent to the new Astroturf pitch in the GAA grounds .This is a new sport to Newmarket & we hope that over the coming months & years many people will use this facility.

SANTA NIGHT: At The Secret Garden on Wednesday, 10th December from 4pm to 9pm. For one night only the big man will be flying in for his annual visit. Craft Market, Face-painting, Entertainment, Live Crib, magical atmosphere & lots of treats! Free entry to the event & €4 per child to see Santa. Staff will be on hand to assist with parking but bring a torch!  Contact 029-60084 for more information.

SHORT BUT SWEET: The Catholic mom was teaching her young son, little Sam, how to pray. One afternoon, as she was taking him to McDonald’s for a treat, they passed a      fender-bender on the road. It didn’t seem serious, but the mother told her son that they should pray for accident victims. She prayed for the well-being of those involved in the accident. As she finished, little Sam piped in: “And God, please don’t let there be an accident at the entrance to McDonald’s.”

SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK:

“If you’re lucky enough to do well, it’s your responsibility to send the elevator back down.” K Spacey

“As you get older there are fewer Do’s and Don’ts. You’re less judgmental of yourself and others. My advice: Be a good listener; human beings are very complicated.”    Lisa Kudrow

“Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day someone might do the same for you.”Princess Diana

“When you say ‘yes’ to others, make sure you are not saying ‘no’ to yourself.”    Paulo Coelho

“Loneliness does not come from having no people around you, but from being unable to communicate the things that seem important to you.”  Carl Jung

ONE SENTENCE SERMON: Giving up on a goal because of a setback is like slashing your other 3 tyres because you got a flat.

WEBSITE OF THE WEEK: www.undertheweather.ie. wants to help you to know how to deal with common illnesses like colds, flu, earaches, tummy bugs and more.

SUNDAY 30th : FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT:   

MASS INTENTIONS:

THIS WEEKEND:      Parish Mission

NEXT WEEKEND:

• Sat.  7.30pm:      Tim & Julia O’ Connor,  Tureendarby.
• Sun 10.00am:     Phil Browne, Kerry Road.
• Sun 11.30am:     Dan & Nellie Daly, Duarigle.

FIRST FRIDAY: Next Friday, 5th December is First Friday. All masses will be offered as November masses for the dead. The sick of the parish will be visited by the Mission Team and Fr. Francis on Wednesday and Friday after 11.30am.

CONFESSION: At this Tuesday evening mission ‘ A Celebration of God’s Mercy’ experience confession with a difference. It’s also an opportunity for people to go to confession for Christmas. Seven priests will be in attendance.

THE ADVENT PRAYER TREE: This Advent & Christmas, the community wish to remember in their prayers those who will not be able to make it home for Christmas . A tree has been placed in the Church where people can write the name of those they would like to be remembered on the cards provided.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL: St. Vincent De Paul will hold their church gate collection before masses next weekend, 6th & 7th of December. Please give a little it will help a lot. Confidential help line – 087-9333212.

CLOTHES COLLECTION: In aid of the Friends of Calcutta will take place in Newmarket Church Car park on Thursday, December 4th from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. Please support this voluntary Irish charity. Enquires to Michael Hopkins on 087-9073074. www.friendsofcalcutta.net

LAST WEEKEND’S COLLECTION: OFFERTORY:  €1,872.00, SHRINES: € 119.00, DIOCESAN FUND : €000.00, SPECIAL COLLECTION: €000.00. Sincere thanks for your generosity.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CEREMONY: Newmarket Development Association will hold a  turning on the lights ceremony on Friday, 5th December at 6.30pm at the West End. The youngest boy and girl in Newmarket schools will be doing the honours and there will be festive refreshments and carol singing.

NEWMARKET GIRLS SCHOOL: Will hold their Nativity play in St. Mary’s Church on Thursday, 11th December @ 7.30pm.

SEASONS EATING: A celebration of Christmas Day cooking with Author, Broadcaster and Chef Instructor Frank Moynihan will be held in Glash Community Centre on Wednesday, 10th   December. Seating for 7:45. Admission €10.

CHRISTMAS DAY SWIM: The 31st Annual Christmas Day swim takes place as usual in the Island Wood at 12.30pm. The chosen charity this year is the Marymount Hospice Homecare Team, with a donation also being made to the Jack & Jill foundation who provide hospice care for babies and young children. Your support would be greatly appreciated. Sponsorship cards from Mary Stack on 029-60444/087-9439612.

SHORT BUT SWEET: One morning a lame man struggled into a Catholic church. He stopped in front of the holy water font, splashed some on both legs, and then threw away his crutches. An altar boy witnessed the scene and rushed into the sacristy to tell the priest what he’d just seen. “Son, you’ve just witnessed a miracle!” the priest cried. “Tell me, where is this man now?” “Flat on his back over by the holy water,” the boy said.

SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE WEEK:

“Your future is found in your daily routine. Successful people do daily what others do occasionally.” Paula White

“I want you to be concerned about your next door neighbour. Do you know your next door neighbour?” Mother Theresa

“You’ll be fine. You’re 25. Feeling unsure and lost is part of your path. Don’t avoid it. See what those feelings are showing you and use it. Take a breath. You’ll be okay. Even if you don’t feel okay all the time.”         Louis Ck

“Look for small victories and build on that. Each small victory, even if it is just getting up 5 minutes earlier, gives you confidence. You realize that these little victories make you feel great, and you keep going.”      Arnold Schwarzenegger

“Often in life, the most important question we can ask ourselves is: do we really have the problem we think we have?”        Sheri Fink

ONE SENTENCE SERMON: Why haven’t you seen a Lamborghini advertisement before? Because the people who can afford them aren’t sitting around watching TV!

WEBSITE OF THE WEEK: www.trf.org . The Tyler Robinson Foundation fights for cancer patients. The Tyler Robinson cancer story has     inspired survivors and given hope to many.