Classroom Resources

• Additional Resources for April /AibreánThe month of April is dedicated to The Holy Spirit. The first eleven days of the month fall during the season of Lent which is represented by the liturgical color purple — a symbol of penance, mortification and the sorrow of a contrite heart. The remainder of April falls during the Easter season which is represented by the liturgical color white — the color of light, a symbol of joy, purity and innocence (absolute or restored).After our solemn commemoration of the last days and death of Our Lord we will spend the month of April celebrating. As Spring breaks forth even nature will join us as buds and blooms begin to surface and we spend this month basking in the joy of the Resurrection. We continue throughout the entire month our cry, “Christ is risen, Christ is truly risen.”
• The Holy Father’s Intentions for the Month of April 2020:
• Freedom from Addiction
  We pray that those suffering from addiction may be helped and accompanied.http://popesprayerusa.net/ 
• April 2^nd                                                World Autism Awareness DayThe 2020 United Nations observance of the Day draws attention to issues of concern related to the transition to adulthood, such as the importance of participation in youth culture and the community self-determination and decision-making, access to post-secondary education and employment, and independent living.Becoming an adult is typically equated with becoming a full and equal participant in the social, economic and political life of one’s community. However, the transition to adulthood remains a significant challenge for persons with autism because of the lack of opportunities and support devoted to this phase of their life. As a result, the completion of high school, when education and other supported services provided by some governments tend to cease, has often been likened to “falling off a cliff”.
• Benjamin’s Story:This video depicts young film-maker Benjamin Rosloff’s visit to the United Nations Headquarters in New York City and his interview with UN’s Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon. Before the interview, Benjamin had the opportunity to explore and film the building including art and photo exhibits from all over the world. The video – produced for the World Autism Awareness Day (2 April 2016) – reflects on Benjamin’s future and how it relates to major global issues.https://youtu.be/wjl7FVAXYbEhttps://www.un.org/en/observances/autism-daySome other International days which may be of interest to you are:4 April             International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action  (A/RES/60/975 April             International Day of Conscience (A/RES/73/329)6 April             International Day of Sport for Development and Peace  (A/RES/67/296)7 April             World Health Day  [WHO]  (WHA/A.2/Res.35)12 April           International Day of Human Space Flight  (A/RES/65/271)14 April           World Chagas Disease Day [WHO]20 April           Chinese Language Day (Chinese)

  21 April           World Creativity and Innovation Day (A/RES/71/284)

  22 April           International Mother Earth Day  (A/RES/63/278)

  23 April           World Book and Copyright Day  (UNESCO 28 C/Resolution 3.18)

  23 April           English Language Day

  23 April           Spanish Language Day (Spanish)

  23 April           International Girls in ICT Day [ITU] (fourth Thursday of April)

  24 April           International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace (A/RES/73/127)

  25 April           International Delegate’s Day (A/RES/73/286)

  25 April           World Malaria Day [WHO]

  26 April           International Chernobyl Disaster Remembrance Day (A/RES/71/125)

  26 April           World Intellectual Property Day [WIPO

  28 April           World Day for Safety and Health at Work

  30 April           International Jazz Day (UNESCO 36 C/Resolution 39)

    

• April 5^th                                              Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion Palm Sunday is the final Sunday of Lent, the beginning of Holy Week, and commemorates the triumphant arrival of Christ in Jerusalem, days before he was crucified.It commemorates Christ’s entry into Jerusalem for the completion of the Paschal Mystery. The Palm Sunday procession is formed of Christians who, in the “fullness of faith,” make their own the gesture of the Jews and endow it with its full significance. Following the Jews’ example, we proclaim Christ as a Victor… Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord.Palm Sunday is known as such because the faithful will often receive palm fronds which they use to participate in the re-enactment of Christ’s arrival in Jerusalem. In the Gospels, Jesus entered Jerusalem riding a young donkey, and to the lavish praise of the townspeople who threw clothes, or possibly palms or small branches, in front of him as a sign of homage. This was a customary practice for people of great respect. Palm branches are widely recognized symbol of peace and victory, hence their preferred use on Palm Sunday.The use of a donkey instead of a horse is highly symbolic, it represents the humble arrival of someone in peace, as opposed to arriving on a steed in war. A week later, Christ would rise from the dead on the first Easter.https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-04-05
• April 7^th      Feast Day of St. John Baptist de La Salle/Lá Fhéile Naomh Eoin Baiste de La SalleSpecial Patron of all Christian EducatorsSaint Jean-Baptiste de La Salle (John Baptist de La Salle) (born 30 April 1651 in Reims; died 7 April 1719 in Saint-Yon, Rouen) was a French priest, educational reformer, and founder of an international educational movement.He dedicated more than forty years of his life to the education of the children of the poor. In the process, he standardized educational practices throughout France, and wrote meditations on the ministry of teaching (along with catechisms, politeness texts, and other resources for teachers and students). He was to influence many other religious congregations dedicated to education that were founded in the 18th and 19th centuries.De La Salle became involved in education little by little, without ever consciously setting out to do so. In 1679, what began as a charitable effort to establish a school for the poor in De La Salle’s home town gradually became his life’s work. He thereby began a new order, the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools also known as the De La Salle Brothers (in the U.K. Ireland and Australasia).
• Prayer to St. John Baptist de la Salle:O God, who chose Saint John Baptist de la Salle to educate young Christians, raise up, we pray, teachers in your Church ready to devote themselves wholeheartedly to the human and Christian formation of the young. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.For further resources and a short power point on St. John de La Salle see:https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2017-04-07http://education.dublindiocese.ie/2016/03/31/saint-john-baptist-de-la-salle/https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=153https://www.lasalle.ie/ 
• April 7^th Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Rwanda Genocide/Lá Cuimhneacháin ar Íobartaigh an Ghinmhilleadh i Rwanda2020 marks the 26th anniversary of the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, one of the darkest chapters in human history. More than 800,000 people – overwhelmingly Tutsi, but also moderate Hutu, Twa and others who opposed the genocide – were systematically killed in less than three months. On this Day, we honour those who were murdered and reflect on the suffering of those who survived.Get your students involved through educational programmes/resources or in various campaigns. Available resources/films and information available at:https://www.un.org/en/preventgenocide/rwanda/index.shtmlhttps://youtu.be/-un_AYJS6Wchttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_films_about_the_Rwandan_Genocide
• April 8^th                                                       “Spy Wednesday”Wednesday of Holy Week is traditionally called “Spy Wednesday” because Judas bargained with the High Priest to betray Jesus for thirty silver pieces (Matt 26:14-16; Mark 14:10-11; Luke 22:1-6). This is also the day that Jesus was anointed with an expensive jar of alabaster by the woman at Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper (Matt 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-19). https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-04-08
• April 9^th                                              Holy Thursday/ Easter TriduumHoly Thursday is also known as “Maundy Thursday.” The word maundy comes from the Latin word mandatum (commandment) which is the first word of the Gospel acclamation: Mandátum novum do vobis dicit Dóminus, ut diligátis ínvicem, sicut diléxi vos.“I give you a new commandment: Love one another as I have loved you.” (John 13:34)These are the words spoken by our Lord to His apostles at the Last Supper, after he completed the washing of the feet. There are only two Masses allowed on Holy Thursday — the Chrism Mass and the evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper.During the evening of Holy Thursday, the Mass of the Lord’s Supper is celebrated. It is celebrated in the evening because the Passover began at sundown. This is a very joyful Mass, as we recall the institution of the Holy Eucharist and the priesthood. The Liturgy of the Mass recalls the Passover, the Last Supper, which includes the Washing of the Feet.  After the Mass, we recall the Agony in the Garden, and the arrest and imprisonment of Jesus. The altar is stripped bare; crosses are removed or covered. The Eucharist has been placed in an altar of repose, and most churches are open for silent adoration, to answer Christ’s invitation “Could you not, then, watch one hour with me?” (Matt 26:40)During the Chrism Mass all of the priests of the diocese gather together, and during it the bishop will consecrate the sacred oils used in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Orders. Each parish receives its annual supply of these oils at the Chrism Mass.On April 9th Holy Thursday Mass of Chrism will be held at 10.30 a.m. in the Pro Cathedral.  Distribution of the Holy Oils in the Pro Cathedral will take place immediately afterwards and up until 1.00 p.m. https://www.dublindiocese.ie/diocesan-diary/
• April 10^th                                      Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion“It is accomplished; and bowing his head he gave up his spirit.”Today the whole Church mourns the death of our Saviour. This is traditionally a day of sadness, spent in fasting and prayer.”Celebration of the Lord’s Passion,” is usually celebrated around three o’clock in the afternoon. The altar is completely bare, with no cloths, candles nor cross. The service is divided into three parts: Liturgy of the Word, Veneration of the Cross and Holy Communion.In part one, the Liturgy of the Word, we hear the most famous of the Suffering Servant passages from Isaiah (52:13-53:12), a pre-figurement of Christ on Good Friday. Psalm 30 is the Responsorial Psalm “Father, I put my life in your hands.” The Second Reading, or Epistle, is from the letter to the Hebrews, 4:14-16; 5:7-9. The Gospel Reading is the Passion of St. John.Part two is the Veneration of the Cross. A cross, either veiled or unveiled, is processed through the Church, and then venerated by the congregation. We joyfully venerate and kiss the wooden cross “on which hung the Saviour of the world.”Part three, Holy Communion, concludes the Celebration of the Lord’s Passion. The altar is covered with a cloth and the ciboriums containing the Blessed Sacrament are brought to the altar from the place of reposition. The Our Father and the Ecce Agnus Dei (“This is the Lamb of God”) are recited. The congregation receives Holy Communion, there is a “Prayer After Communion,” and then a “Prayer Over the People,” and everyone departs in silence.
• April 11^th                                            Holy Saturday-Easter VigilOn Holy Saturday the Church waits at the Lord’s tomb, meditating on his suffering and death. The altar is left bare, and the sacrifice of the Mass is not celebrated. Only after the solemn vigil during the night, held in anticipation of the resurrection, does the Easter celebration begin, with a spirit of joy that overflows into the following period of fifty days.The day is and should be the most calm and quiet day of the entire Church year, a day broken by no liturgical function. Christ lies in the grave, the Church sits near and mourns. After the great battle He is resting in peace, but upon Him we see the scars of intense suffering…The mortal wounds on His Body remain visible…Jesus’ enemies are still furious, attempting to obliterate the very memory of the Lord by lies and slander.https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-04-11 
• April 12^th                                                     Easter Sunday“I rose up and am still with Thee.”Easter is the feast of feasts, the unalloyed joy and gladness of all Christians. Easter means, then, Redemption obtained — sin destroyed, death overcome, divine life brought back to us, the resurrection of our body which is promised immortality. With such a certitude, we should banish all trace of sadness! “This is the day which the Lord has made.” Christ has promised that He will come again with glory to take us with Him into the kingdom of His Father. Through His Cross He entered into the possession of eternal glory. Christ has gained the crown of victory; through Christ humanity also win their crowns of victory. “He is risen.” The resurrection of Christ is a pledge of our own resurrection. It is the foundation upon which our faith rests. It is the guarantee of our redemption and God’s assurance that our sins are forgiven and that we are called to eternal life. “This is the day which the Lord hath made; let us be glad and rejoice therein”. Alleluia! Alleluia!The feast of St. Bernadette, which is ordinarily celebrated today, is superseded by the Easter liturgy. 
• April 13^th                                                      Easter OctaveThe first eight days of the Easter season form the Easter octave and are celebrated as solemnities of the Lord. Each day is another little Easter. The Alleluia verse is repeated throughout the octave: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. Alleluia!”The Gospel continues to relate the story of Christ’s resurrection — how Mary Magdalene and the other Mary meet Jesus.
• April 19^th                           Second Sunday of Easter (Divine Mercy Sunday)“I shall sing forever the Lord’s mercy”This Sunday is popularly known as Divine Mercy Sunday. Between 1930 and 1938 Christ appeared to Sister Faustina, a Sister of Mercy in Poland who initiated the Divine Mercy devotion. She was canonized on April 30, 2000, the Sunday after Easter, the Feast of Divine Mercy. On Good Friday, 1937, Jesus requested that Blessed Faustina make a special novena before the Feast of Mercy, from Good Friday through the following Saturday. Jesus also asked that a picture be painted according to the vision of Himself as the fountain of mercy. He gave her a chaplet to be recited and said that it was appropriate to pray the chaplet at three o’clock each afternoon (the Hour of Great Mercy).
• Jesus to Sr. FaustinaOn one occasion, I heard these words: “My daughter, tell the whole world about My inconceivable mercy. I desire that the Feast of Mercy be a refuge and shelter for all souls, and especially for poor sinners. On that day the very depths of My tender mercy are open. I pour out a whole ocean of graces upon those souls who approach the fount of My mercy. The soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment. On that day all the divine floodgates through which graces flow are opened. Let no soul fear to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet. My mercy is so great that no mind, be it of man or of angel, will be able to fathom it throughout all eternity. Everything that exists has come forth from the very depths of My most tender mercy. Every soul in its relation to Me will contemplate My love and mercy throughout eternity. The Feast of Mercy emerged from My very depths of tenderness. It is My desire that it be solemnly celebrated on the first Sunday after Easter. Mankind will not have peace until it turns to the Fount of My Mercy.”[Let] the greatest sinners place their trust in My mercy. They have the right before others to trust in the abyss of My mercy. My daughter, write about My mercy towards tormented souls. Souls that make an appeal to My mercy delight Me. To such souls I grant even more graces than they ask. I cannot punish even the greatest sinner if he makes an appeal to My compassion, but on the contrary, I justify him in My unfathomable and inscrutable mercy. Write: before I come as a just Judge, I first open wide the door of My mercy. He who refuses to pass through the door of My mercy must pass through the door of My justice.”From all My wounds, like from streams, mercy flows for souls, but the wound in My Heart is the fountain of unfathomable mercy. From this fountain spring all graces for souls. The flames of compassion burn Me. I desire greatly to pour them out upon souls. Speak to the whole world about My mercy.”https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-04-19 
• April 25^th                                          Feast of St. Mark, evangelistSt. Mark, the author of the second Gospel, was the son of Mary whose house at Jerusalem was the meeting place of Christians. He was baptized and instructed by St. Peter. In about the year 42 A.D. he came to Rome with the Prince of the Apostles. There at the request of the faithful he wrote his Gospel about the year 50 A.D. His Gospel is a record of St. Peter’s preaching about Our Lord and pays special attention to the head of the Apostles. The Gospel was written for Roman Gentile converts. It rarely quotes the Old Testament, and is careful to explain Jewish customs, rites and words. It excels in portraying the emotions and affections of both Christ and His hearers. St. Mark preached in Egypt, especially in Alexandria and was martyred there by the heathen.
• April 25th – Knock Virtual Pilgrimage  Following the Government’s decision/guidance on COV-19 this year’s annual Diocesan Knock Pilgrimage 2020 will be postponed until further notice.  At the heart of this difficult decision is the welfare of our pilgrims. Instead people are invited to join in the Masses in Knock and visit the Apparition Chapel all online on Saturday, 25 April.For more information and enquires contact Reverend Deacon Gerard Reilly by email: knockpilgrimage@dublindiocese.ie
• Trócaire On-Line for Holy WeekOn Holy Week, the most reflective week in the Church’s year, we are inviting you to attend two interactive workshops online. We will hold these workshops on the Monday and Wednesday of Holy Week, in final preparation for the Easter Triduum.
• Prayer and Reflective WorkshopOn Monday, 6th April at 11.00am, Trócaire will have a prayer/reflective workshop for families. To register please contact Anna Keegan on anna.keegan@trocaire.org   and Anna will then send you on the webinar link.
• Laudato Sí/Caring for our Common Home WorkshopOn Wednesday,8th of April at 11.00am, Trócaire will hold a workshop on Laudato Sí/Caring for our Common Home. To register, please contact Jane Mellett on jane.mellett@trocaire.org  and Jane will then send on the webinar link.

 

Posted on April 1st 2020

 

• This is a list of services that have been made available for free for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, and is being continuously updated. If you know of any that are not listed here, let me know and I will get them added.  Twitter: @ShaneHastingsIE   Email: giveback@shanehastings.eu                                                                       – see https://covid19.shanehastings.eu/giveback/?fbclid=IwAR2aXv6PMsc_NVIBONZz18o4whJs9CpIz729NxIU4KqEkpz0rfo-eN-X6L4

 

• E. Today, I may have mentioned this resource to you on my visits – see https://clicks.retoday-email.co.uk/email_content.php?token2=3nXeT2F1sSJUPafLcgVioh-VFqbB4X1JjZQm6MuPueM1oTuVDqpEI7sfzpZkqRo0lFMCdSCq41JJG4xE7M4vCQ.. It’s the British Association of R.E. teachers and includes lots of helpful material.

 

• Please see link forZoom games from Christ in Youth.  CIYE Zoom games1

 

• The Department of Education and Skills have helpful material on Wellbeing – see https://www.education.ie/en/Education-Staff/Services/Employee-Assistance-Wellbeing-Programme/Employee-Assistance-Wellbeing-Programme.html

 

• Resource from the Dublin Archdiocese regarding the Ember Project – Also see attached the Ember Faith Connect Challenge handout attached – and the video link below.  Also see a helpful handout on looking after your mental health during this crisis

EMBER PROJECT MR G.mp4

 

• Covid-19 Way of the Cross  Covid19 Way of the cross

 

• Please see a link below for 36 Online Lesson Plans with embedded links to Other Resources, e.g. YouTube links, Songs etc.

Catholic Religious Women from around the Globe have developed a wonderful   resource specifically aimed at             supporting RE teachers. It’s called GSR in the Classroom.  Currently their site hosts excellent lesson plans,                   encompassing good discussion questions, stories, testimonies,  scripture passages, suggested actions , links to             Youtube clips and concluding prayers on the following topics:

Lent (6 lessons)

Environment (6 lessons)

Human Trafficking (6 lessons)

Migration (6 lessons)

Race Relations (6 lessons)

Vocations (6 lessons)

The methodology of each lesson is the same and simple.  Each follows Tom Groome’s approach of going from               life to faith to life and I am confident that both you and your students will find the material inspiring.  I am also           confident that they will support you support your students gain a better understanding of the related issues, i.e.           from a religious education and humanitarian perspective.  There are also great cross curricular links within RE           and with other subjects, e.g. geography, business, history.  Everything you require for a lesson (some could                   cover two class periods) can be found in one downloadable handout (pdf), which you can email to your students           pre or post lesson if you wish.  Links to YouTube clips are also embedded further limiting demands on you.                   There is also a teacher guide for each lesson (clearly written by an experienced teacher) but given your own                   formation and experience as an RE Teacher and the quality of each handout,  you may not require this.  To                   source these lessons plans, teacher guides etc. go to:  www.globalsistersreport.org/classroom

 

• Actor Morgan Freeman has an excellent Netflix series called ‘Story of God.’ See https://www.netflix.com/ie/title/80178897

 

• Ann Lehane’s Life Coaching for young people – for her latest post see – https://www.instagram.com/tv/B-W0Zx7JiZb/?igshid=1h5u2q2p0hlkh

 

• Click on https://dynamiccatholic.com/ to view this resource called Dynamic Catholic.  This site is designed to re-energize the Catholic Church by developing world-class resources that inspire people to rediscover the genius of Catholicism.

 

• Check out the short movie entitled ‘The Veil Removed’ – The Veil Removed is a short film that reveals the coming together of heaven and earth at Mass, as seen by saints and mystics, revealed by scripture and in the catechism of the Catholic Church. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOLZDaTgIaM

 

• See link on resources for non-exam R.E.  I sent this to you last September.  BBBANON EXAM SYLLABUS DERRY DIOCESEFINAL12JUNE2019

 

• Check the website of the National Episcopal Conference for relevant prayers for this time at https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2020/03/16/prayer-resources-for-use-during-the-coronavirus-pandemic/

 

• Trócaire Material – On Monday, 6th April at 11am , Trócaire will have a prayer/reflective workshop for families. To register please contact Anna Keegan on keegan@trocaire.org  and Anna will then send you on the webinar link.

On Wednesday,8th of April at 11am, Trócaire will hold a workshop on Laudato Sí/Caring for our Common                    Home. To register, please contact Jane Mellett on jane.mellett@trocaire.org  and Jane will then send on the                  webinar link.

 

• https://www.jesuit.ie/news/a-spirituality-for-strange-times/

Brendan McManus Ten Ignatian Tips for Coping with Coronavirus: A spirituality for strange times.

 

• See see link for students preparing for state exams and the Ceist resource for prayer.   Reflections to accompany us during Convid 19 CEIST

 

• Veritas has a new publication for the Junior Cert cycle entitled Soul Seekers. This current book covers Strand 1 of the RE course, with book 2&3 in production. Soul Seekers uses the three elements: enquiry, exploration and reflection and action, to lead students through a process that is rooted in the philosophy of the NCCA specifications.  Veritas would like to give you free access to the online element of Soul Seekers for you to peruse and get familiar with. Also, they would like to send someone out to meet you to discuss the book in further detail. They plan to have someone free to meet with you anytime from now until the end of  April (a coffee or perhaps a phone call, given the current circumstances). If you wish to gain access to the site then please contact Ciara Dunne (dunne@veritas.ie or on 0857564689). Ciara can talk you through the book/site and answer any questions you might have.

 

• The Catholic Grandparents Association website – http://www.catholicgrandparentsassociation.org/ see attachment for their newsletter.

 

• The Religion Teacher website offers lots of free printable student worksheets on Lent/Sunday Readings which Parents could use at home with students? https://www.thereligionteacher.com/coronavirus/?utm_source=The+Religion+Teacher+Newsletter+List&utm_campaign=d4465f87fa-TRT%3A+Weekly+Newsletter+3-22-20&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_a52a2eb0e6-d4465f87fa-326505809&mc_cid=d4465f87fa&mc_eid=ad74739f08

 

• Saint Corona, patron saint of resisting epidemics. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-germany-saint/german-cathedral-dusts-off-relics-of-st-corona-patron-of-epidemics-idUSKBN21C2PM

 

• On-Line Prayer https://www.sacredspace.ie  All you need is a phone!

 

• This daily 3-Minute Retreat is a short prayer break at your computer that can give you 24 hours of peace. You’ll find this specifically on https://www.loyolapress.com/3-minute-retreats-daily-online-prayer

 

• Junior Cycle Religious Education in the Catholic School Relationships and Sexuality Education Choosing your Religious Education Textbook for Junior Cycle RE Religious Education in the Framework for Junior Cycle A useful resource for Parish Pastoral Councils, Parish Justice and Peace Groups and more https://www.religiouseducation.ie

 

• Taize Prayer can be accessed each evening at 7.30 directly from Taize Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/taize/

 

• Next Sunday’s Scripture readings- Sunday of the Word of God see http://www.tarsus.ie

 

• Please click Rite to replace the washing of feet 2 for material to replace the Ceremony of the Washing of Feet on Holy Thursday.

 

 

Posted on March 31st 2020

 

 

Click on the link below for latest R.E. resources from TES:

Posted on March 12th 2020

https://www.tes.com/teaching-resources/hub/secondary/religious-education

 

Lent 2020

Posted on March 11th 2020

 

Pope Francis’ Message for Lent 2020

The Vatican releases Pope Francis’ Message for Lent 2020, in which the Holy Father invites the faithful to embrace the paschal mystery as the basis for conversion.

In his Message for Lent 2020, Pope Francis points to the paschal mystery – the mystery of Jesus’ Passion, Death, and Resurrection – as the basis of conversion. The Message bears the title “We implore you on behalf of Christ: be reconciled to God”, a quote from St Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians.

Pope Francis says that during this season of Lent, he wants to invite the faithful to fix their eyes on the crucified Lord, and allow ourselves “to be saved over and over again”. “Jesus’ Pasch is not a past event; rather, through the power of the Holy Spirit it is ever present, enabling us to see and touch with faith the flesh of Christ in those who suffer”.

For the full script of the message see:

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020-02/pope-for-lent-with-god-there-is-always-a-dialogue.html

 

February 24th-8th March / Feabhra 24ú – Márta 8ú                      Fairtrade Fortnight

From 24th February to 8th March it is Fairtrade Fortnight. You can join in the annual campaign when we bring the fight for change to the masses. In 2020, we are continuing our call for cocoa farmers to earn a living income, as well as sharing stories that show the positive impact that only Fairtrade has on the women behind your chocolate bar.

Only Fairtrade is campaigning publicly for the right to a living income for farmers – men and women.

https://www.fairtrade.org.uk/get%20involved//Current-campaigns/Fairtrade-Fortnight

 

March 1stWorld Day of Prayer / Lá Domhanda Urnaí

Rise! Take Your Mat and Walk (John 5:2-9a)

 

World Day of Prayer is a global ecumenical movement led by Christian women who welcome you to join in prayer and action for peace and justice. The WDP 2020 program is based on Jesus’ encounter with a person who, although positioned for healing, had not acted upon the opportunities given (John 5:2-9a). Jesus asked –“Do you want to be made well?” You are faced with this life-changing question. What are you going to do? Use this opportunity to reflect with your WDP group, community and ecumenical partners. Prayer and action are what links us together around the globe.

https://worlddayofprayer.net/index.html

 

March 8th                                                St. John of God / Naomh Eoin le Dia

John was born in 1495 in Montemor O Novo, Portugal. He spent most of his life in Spain and worked as a shepherd, soldier and bookseller in many parts both of Spain and North Africa. He eventually settled in the city of Granada in the south of Spain. It was here that he met St. John of Avila whose preaching had a profound effect on him, and resulted in a dramatic conversion experience. This experience made him realise the depth of God’s love for him and how little he had done to love God in return.

Starting with a small porch where he brought those who were sick, poor or in any kind of need, John went on to set up shelters and eventually a hospital. Before he began his first hospital he went to work with the Jeremites, a religious order who also looked after the sick and there he received training in medicine and in nursing skills. He was very innovative in his treatment of the sick being one of the first to ensure that each sick person had a separate bed and going around washing and tending the patients himself. News of John’s work spread far and wide. He began to attract others who wanted to help him to look after those in need.

John died on the 8th March 1550 aged 55. He was canonised in1690. A few years after his death those who were his followers were recognised as a religious order and called the Hospitaller Brothers of St. John of God. Today the work which John began in a porch in Granada continues in 52 countries in the world and covers a wide range of care for those with physical and learning disabilities, the homeless and poor, those with mental health problems and the elderly.

Saint John of God, help us to act out of love as soon as we feel the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Help us learn to fight the little voices in our heads and hearts that give us all sorts of practical reasons to wait or delay in our service of God. Amen

https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=68

 

March 9/10th                                                 Holika Dahan and Holi                 

In 2020, Holi will fall on March 10, with Holika Dahan on March 9. Holika Dahan is a great ritual of the Hindu religion while celebrating the Holi festival. The Holi festival commemorates the victory of good over evil. Information on this festival will help students who are studying Hinduism as part of their major world religions, Section C. for Junior Cert (old syllabus).

https://www.tripsavvy.com/holi-festival-in-india-guide-1539289

 

March 13th                                7th Anniversary of Pope Francis to the Papacy 

Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio and is the first pope from the Southern Hemisphere. He is the first Jesuit pope and the first non-European pope since Pope Gregory III in 741. He chose his papal name to honour St. Francis of Assisi. He was inaugurated on 19 March 2013, and his motto became “Miserando atque Eligendo” or “lowly but chosen.” The motto was taken from the Venerable Bede on Saint Matthew’s Gospel.

On the anniversary of Pope Francis’ election, mass is normally held at the Vatican and Catholic churches throughout the area. During the mass, people pray for the pope’s continued health and well-being while asking God to guide him in his decisions for the Catholic church.

https://www.loyolapress.com/our-catholic-faith/scripture-and-tradition/church-leadership/pope-francis

 

March 17th                                               St. Patrick / Naomh Pádraig

St Patrick is one of Christianity’s best-known figures. Born in Britain to a wealthy family near the end of the fourth century, at the age of sixteen, Patrick was taken prisoner by a group of Irish raiders. He was carried away to Ireland where he was held captive for more than six years. During his time as a slave, Patrick worked as a shepherd, attending the flocks of his master. Alone and homesick, Patrick prayed many times a day while in the pastures with the sheep.

St. Patrick used the shamrock, to illustrate the mystery of the Holy Trinity to the pre-Christian Irish. To this day, the shamrock is a well-known symbol of Ireland. He founded many churches in Ireland and continued looking after them until his death on March 17, 493. Every year, on March 17, millions of people celebrate this annual feast day that celebrates St. Patrick, a patron of Ireland.

http://education.dublindiocese.ie/2012/02/21/saint-patrick/

 

March 19th                                                  St. Joseph / Naomh Íosaf

St. Joseph was the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the foster father of Jesus. All we know about Joseph comes from the accounts of the nativity in the New Testament. He was a tradesman, commonly he is said to have been a carpenter, but it is possible he may have been a stone worker. He was said to have been a direct descendent of David, the great king of Israel. Since Joseph is not mentioned in any accounts of Jesus’ public life, his crucifixion, or resurrection, it is thought that Joseph died before Jesus started preaching. St. Joseph is the patron saint of the Catholic Church, unborn children, fathers, immigrants, workers, Vietnam and the Philippines. For a short informational video and resources, see:  http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=4

 

March 21st                 International Day of the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

    Lá Idirnáisiúnta tiomnaithe do dhíothú Idirdhealú Ciníoch

 

March 21 is International Day of the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. This observance was established by the United Nations General Assembly to call on the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate racial discrimination around the world.

Observation of this International Day is closely connected to the events of March 21, 1960, when police of Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against the apartheid pass laws. Pass laws would significantly limit the movement of African populace and migrant labor.

UN General Assembly established International Day of the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in 1966 to commemorate the events in Sharpeville. Kofi Annan, the 7th Secretary-General of the UN, considered that much success in the fight against racial discrimination depends on ordinary citizens and their will to speak out against intolerance and discriminatory acts in their daily lives.

https://www.un.org/en/events/racialdiscriminationday/

 

March 22nd                                    World Water Day  /  Lá Domhanda Uisce

“Whoever you are, wherever you are, water is your human right”

World Water Day 2020, is about water and climate change – and how the two are inextricably linked. Adapting to the water effects of climate change will protect health and save lives. Using water more efficiently will reduce greenhouse gases. We cannot afford to wait.Everyone has a role to play.

https://www.worldwaterday.org/

March 24th                                                           Oscar Romero

“We are workers, not master builders, ministers, not messiahs.

We are prophets of a future not our own.”

Born on August 15th 1917, Oscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdamez was sent to study for the priesthood in Rome and was ordained in April 1942. He embraced a simple lifestyle; he was a popular preacher who responded with real compassion to the plight of the poor.  He gave dedicated pastoral service to the diocese of San Miguel for 25 years. He was ordained Archbishop of San Salvador in 1977. Over the years, the social and political conflict in El Salvador intensified, and from his Cathedral pulpit, Archbishop Romero became the voice of the voiceless poor. There, in a society of cover-up and lies, he spoke the truth of what was happening in the countryside; he denounced the killings, the torture and the disappearances of community leaders; he demanded justice and recompense for the atrocities committed by the army and police and he set up legal aid projects and pastoral programmes to support the victims of the violence. He was assassinated on Monday March 24th 1980 as he was celebrating Mass in the chapel of the Divine Providence cancer hospital where he lived. Thirty-five years later, he was declared a martyr of the Church, killed out of hatred of the faith, and was beatified on May 23rd 2015.

A study of Oscar Romero can be used in a variety of ways for the Junior Cert Religion Syllabus. See http://education.dublindiocese.ie/oscar-romero/ for ideas and further resources.

Each year in preparation for the Feast of Blessed Oscar Romero on the anniversary of his martyrdom (24th March) you can download Liturgical Resources that may be of assistance in the planning of your own Liturgies, be it in church, school or in your own home. http://www.romerotrust.org.uk/who-was-archbishop-oscar-romero

Trócaire Romero Award 

The Romero Programme highlights the efforts of people in Ireland and across the world to raise awareness of human rights violations and support people who are experiencing hardship. Students can take part in Trócaire Awards Programmes, based on global justice issues. The Trócaire Romero Award is a student led awareness raising project that can be incorporated into a TY module, a CSPE project, or a RE topic. Prizes for most impressive entries and schools can find more details online

https://www.trocaire.org/getinvolved/trocaire-romero-award

 

March 22nd                                             Mother’s Day/Laetare Sunday

      Lá na Máithreacha/ Domhnach an áthais

As Christianity spread throughout Europe, Mother’s Day celebrations were held on the fourth Sunday of Lent – Laetare Sunday or ‘mid-Lent’ Sunday – the celebrations were adapted to honour the Virgin Mary and the ‘Mother Church’. Customs began to dictate that a person visit the church of his/her baptism on this day. People also attended the mother church of their parish, laden with offerings.

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-03-22

 

March 25th                          Feast of the Annunciation / Teachtaireacht an Aingil

“I am the handmaiden of the Lord; let it be to me according to your Word.”

A tradition, which has come down from the apostolic ages, tells us that the great mystery of the Incarnation was achieved on the twenty-fifth day of March. It was at the hour of midnight, when the most holy Virgin was alone and absorbed in prayer, that the Archangel Gabriel appeared before her, and asked her, in the name of the blessed Trinity, to consent to become the Mother of God. The feast of the Annunciation of the Lord celebrates Angel Gabriel’s appearance to the Virgin Mary (Luke 1:26-38) and his announcement that she had been chosen to be the mother of the saviour of the world. Also being celebrated during this feast was Mary’s fiat, which means “let it be” in Latin—her willing acceptance of the news.

Mary, in her selflessness, was open to the angel´s visit. She recognized who was speaking. She listened, received and responded. In so doing, she shows us the way to respond to the Lord’s call in our own lives. God initiates a relationship and we respond in surrender to Him. This dynamic, this heavenly road, leads to a dialogue, a conversation, a way of life. By saying Yes, through our own Fiat, we are set apart. Consecrated.  Made holy.  Mary shows us that way.

The Annunciation, which means “the announcement,” is observed almost universally throughout Christianity, especially within Orthodoxy, Anglicanism, Catholicism, and Lutheranism.

For further teaching resources see:

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2017-03-25

https://www.catholic.org/lent/story.php?id=40820

 

 

 Further excellent resources for March are available from Frank Brown, Parish Pastoral Worker, from the combined parishes of Clondalkin. http://www.clondalkinparish.com

With Lent just around the corner here are a few resources that may be useful over the next few week in parish, schools, liturgy groups etc., There are various resources for all age groups from challenges, Lenten Calendars, Lenten Commitments, Lenten Challenges, A number of MAD (Make a difference) and ECO resources, as well as a number of scriptural resources, Stations of the Cross and Way of the Cross. I even have included a knitting pattern for parish knitting groups to make the Last Supper scene!!

I have also attached this years “Something Different For Lent – A DIY retreat for Busy People” – I have done it in the form of a booklet this year but it also could be printed as weekly one page/2 sided handouts and I have included these as well in the resources.

You can view, download, print these from https://dublindiocese-my.sharepoint.com/:f:/g/personal/frank_brown_dublindiocese_ie/EqGc1raZKhBAsWoRqty_bLgBbnjd5ftDeXaafOAiwLq13A?e=pqBLs9

 

Faithfest16  – Friday 13th March 2020

Faithfest is an event which creates an opportunity for young people to have fun, make friends and explore faith, it’s a space where young people can be themselves.  It’s wonderful each time we run it to see both familiar and new faces.  We are constantly getting feedback from both the young people and their leaders about how much they get from it.  Praise God.

Our next Faithfest is on Friday 13th March and we are really looking forward to it.  Our theme is Dream Big.  Some of our workshops will include: Cage Soccer, Meditation, Self-Esteem and Music.

For consent forms or further information contact:  Siobhán Tighe PPW, Youth EvangelisationSt Paul’s Church, Arran Quay or https://www.evangelisation.ie/category/youth-young-adults/

 

Religion Teachers’ Association of Ireland National Conference 2020

Saturday 7th March 2020   Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

All teachers and students of Religious Education are invited to attend. Places must be reserved in advance by emailing valroe@hotmail.com providing your name, the name of your school and your TC number.

 

The Greatest Story NEVER Told!

Best-selling author, Fr. Seán Hyland is about to explode a myth that exists about science and faith. His new website will provide evidence that Science, Instead of disproving God, Is increasingly making the argument for a Divine Creator: www.whisperingsofmysoul.com

 

For your students:

They will be fascinated as they learn more about the subject on the Website and not only that, when they design an A4 poster, based on what they have learned, they will be in the running for a prize of €5OO. And if they make it a team effort (school or class) the prize goes up to €1OOO. Design entries to be sent to Fr. Seán @ whispersposter@gmail.com. by March 3lst 2O2O.

 

Emmanuel Secondary School Liturgical Music Programme 2020        March9th-12th

  

Other Lenten resources

(Thanks to Loreto Education Trust: https://loretoeducationtrust.ie/ )

 

Isaiah 58:6-7

Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter…

 

Lent in Three Minutes

https://bustedhalo.com/video/watch-lent-3-minutes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAuB-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwoLUPHGsX4

 

MUSIC FOR LENT

Bless the Lord, my soul (Taizé) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4Svh-9ohg4

On Eagles’ Wings (Michael Joncas) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MvpjxfWrjzY

Your Faith in Me (Ian Callanan) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwoLUPHGsX4

Psalm 91 “Be With Me, Lord” (Marty Haugen) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKzmYk6x4kE

The Clouds’ Veil (Liam Lawton) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yULkmEwEGYQ

Living Lent Daily

“This Lent, foster a daily practice of spiritual calm where God is at the centre. Living Lent Daily is a daily e-mail series delivering fresh reflections based on the Scriptures of Lent. Each day’s message includes a quotation from the day’s Scripture readings and a brief reflection for meditation and prayer.The messages also include suggestions for further exploration of Lenten themes through additional online articles and prayers.”

http://www.loyolapress.com/our-catholic-faith/liturgical-year/lent/living-lent-daily

https://www.catholicbishops.ie/2020/02/24/living-lent-2020

 

 

Searmanas  In  Onóir  Phádraig  Naofa

 

Coinneal, Siombail Athmhuintearais, Cros Cheilteach

Síormholadh is Glóir Duit

Síormholadh is glóir duit, a Athair shíoraí,

A gheall dúinn an tsíocháin leat féin i do ríocht,

Is d’Aon-Mhac nuair d’fhuascail Síol Éabh’ lena bhás,

Gur réitigh an ród dúinn chun aontacht is páirt.

Ón gcroí gabhaimid buíochas

As ucht do dhea-scéal dúinn

Is Pádraig do chraol é fá ghríosadh do ghrá.

 

An ghlóir atá ’ndán dúinn id’ bhriathar is léir

“T’réis m’ardú ón talamh tarraingeoidh mé gach n-aon.”

Go raibh muid, a Dhia dhil, ’nár scáthán go deo

Díot féin le grá is páirt, ar nós Phádraig fadó.

Aon anró níor bhrí leis

Ach Briathar Dé ’chraoladh

Is miorúilt ghrá Dé do-ghní chuile ní nua.        

Tadhg Ó Sé, Veritas Hymnal, eagrán 1974, uimhir 134

  

Déantar Lá Fhéile Pádraig a cheiliúradh ar fud an domhain le mórshiúil agus taispeántais agus ainmnítear daoine agus áiteanna ina onóir.  Insítear scéalta agus cantar amhráin faoi Phádraig, ach is annamh a thugann siad léargas dúinn ar an  DUINE  féin.

Is sa dá dhoiciméad a scríobh sé féin, an “Confessio” agus an “Litir Chuig Coroticus” a fhaighimid léargas ar Phádraig mar fhear:

• Le creideamh láidir
• A thug maithiúnas dá naimhde
• A rinne nascadh idir chultúir.

 

Fear Creidimh

In aois sé bliana déag bhí Pádraig ina sclábhaí ag aoireacht caorach ar thaobh sléibhe i bhfad óna chairde agus óna mhuintir. Bhí sé uaigneach, fuar, ocrach. Cad a dhéanfá dá mbeifeá sa riocht sin?  Cad a rinne Pádraig?

Deir sé féin gur chuir sé a mhuinín i nDia agus gur tháinig Dia i gcabhair air.

Fuair sé misneach agus sólás agus bealach éalaithe sa deireadh.

Guímis ar son ógra an lae inniu atá uaigneach, buartha, éadóchasach.

A Dhia, cuir i gcuimhne dóibh go dtabharfaidh tusa misneach, dóchas agus neart dóibh má ghuíonn siad chugat, dála mar a rinne Pádraig agus é ina dhéagóir. A Thiarna, éist linn.

A Thiarna, bí ceansa agus éist linn.

Lastar coinneal.

 

“Dóchas linn Naomh Pádraig, aspal mór na hÉireann,

Ainm oirdhearc gléigeal, solas mór an tsaoil é.”

 

Duine Maiteach

 

Fuair Pádraig droch-íde in Éirinn agus bhí áthas air nuair a d’éirigh leis éaló.  Bhí an-áthas ar a mhuintir nuair a d’fhill sé abhaile agus d’impigh siad air gan imeacht uathu arís.  Ach i mbrionglóid san oíche chuala sé muintir na hÉireann ag impí air filleadh ar ais, rud a rinne sé.

 

“D’fhill le soiscéal grá dúinn

Ainneoin blianta i ngéibheann.”

 

Dála mar a rinne Íosa, bhí Pádraig ábalta maithiúnas a thabhairt dá naimhde agus a shaol a chaitheamh ag freastal orthu. Chothaigh sé athmhuintearas agus síocháin.

A Dhia, cabhraigh linne agus le muintir an domhain uile maithiúnas a chleachtadh agus comhoibriú le chéile ar son na síochána.  A Thiarna, éist linn.

A Thiarna, bí ceansa agus éist linn.

 

Taispeántar siombail athmhuintearais.

 

Nascadh idir Chultúir

 

Bhí Pádraig eolach ar an reiligiún Ceilteach a cleachtadh in Éirinn.  Bhí meas aige ar na dea-thréithe a bain leis an reiligiún sin agus rinne sé nascadh idir nósanna a bhí acu agus an Chríostaíocht, m.sh. idir Tine na Bealtaine agus Tine na Cásca.  Chuir Pádraig siombail na Croise, siombail na Críostaíochta leis an gciorcal, siombail na gréine, agus sin an bunús atá leis an gCros Cheilteach.

 

Taispeántar ciorcal agus cros anuas air.

 

A Dhia, cabhraigh linn a bheith neamhchlaonta i leith daoine agus cultúr atá neamhchosúil lenár gcultúr féin.  Taispeáin dúinn na tréithe agus na nósanna maithe a bhaineann leo, ionas go mbeimis ábalta maireachtáil le chéile go síochánta.

A Thiarna, éist linn.  A Thiarna, bí ceansa agus éist linn.

 

Dóchas  Linn  Naomh  Pádraig

 

Dóchas linn Naomh Pádraig, aspal mór na hÉireann,

Ainm oirdhearc gléigeal, solas mór an tsaoil é.

D’fhill le soiscéal grá dúinn ainneoin blianta i  ngéibheann.

Grá mór Mhac na páirte  d’fhuascail  cách ón daorbhroid.

 

Sléibhte, gleannta, maighe is bailte mór’ na hÉireann:

Ghlan sé iad go deo dúinn, míle glóir dár naomh dil.

Iarraimid ort, a Phádraig, guí orainne Gaela,

Dia  linn lá ’gus oíche is Pádraig aspal Éireann

Traidisiúnta, Veritas Hymnal, 135

Rian  Phádraig

Pádraig Aspal, Alleluia

Canaimís le dóchas croí,

Éist go fóill le glór do mhuintir,

Is bí in éineacht linn de shíor.

 

Tá rian na Naomh ar thír na hÉireann,

Rian geal Phádraig, soiscéal Dé.

Buíoch sinne, muintir Phádraig,

Leanaimis i gcónaí é.

 

Rian na gcos ar chruach is díseart,

Cill is clog i ndiaidh a shiúil;

Rian an té bhí creagach dílis,

Seirbhíseach Rí na nDúl.

 

Rian na mbriathar ’tá i scríbhinn

Ó Cheannannas Mór go hOileán Í,

Briathar Dé do riar a shaothar:

Déanam beart dá réir arís.

 

Rian an ghrá go  buan san Eaglais,

Ainneoin peacaí, pian is crá;

Briathar misnigh dúinn ó Phrádraig:

“Déanfaidh sibhse fós níos fearr.”

 

 Focail: Oliver Crilly,  Ceol: Pat Ahern

In Caelo  104  tiomsaithe ag Liam Lawton

 

Síormholadh is Glóir Duit

Síormholadh is glóir duit, a Athair shíoraí,

A gheall dúinn an tsíocháin leat féin i do ríocht,

Is d’Aon-Mhac nuair d’fhuascail Síol Éabh’ lena bhás,

Gur réitigh an ród dúinn chun aontacht is páirt.

Ón gcroí gabhaimid buíochas

As ucht do dhea-scéal dúinn

Is Pádraig do chraol é fá ghríosadh do ghrá.

 

An ghlóir atá ’ndán dúinn id’ bhriathar is léir

“T’réis m’ardú ón talamh tarraingeoidh mé gach n-aon.”

Go raibh muid, a Dhia dhil, ’nár scáthán go deo

Díot féin le grá is páirt, ar nós Phádraig fadó.

Aon anró níor bhrí leis

Ach Briathar Dé ’chraoladh

Is miorúilt ghrá Dé do-ghní chuile ní nua.        

 

Tadhg Ó Sé, Veritas Hymnal, eagrán 1974, uimhir 134

 

January 26th-3rd February

Posted February 4th 2020

Catholic Schools Week 2020/ Seachtain na Scoileanna Caitliceacha

‘Living in Harmony With God’s Creation’/ Maireachtáil go Sítheach Le Gach ar Chruthaigh Dia.

 

Catholic Schools Week takes place from 26^th January to the 2^nd February 2020. This year the theme is ‘Living in Harmony With God’s Creation’. Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si is the foundation on which the theme is based upon, and it calls on all of us to protect our common home and to bring the whole human family together to seek a sustainable and integral development, for we know that things can change’ (LS, 13). Pope Francis challenges us to look at our lifestyles. We must become aware of the impact our lives have on the lives of others. The hope of Catholic Schools Week 2020 is that we realise how powerful each and every one of us is and that even the smallest changes can have the biggest impact.

 

Again, this year, resources for Catholic Schools Week will be available online. All lessons have resources for both Junior and Senior Cycle. Each lesson contains practices which support the national Literacy and Numeracy Strategy, as well as self-reflective practices as a way of supporting assessment in the classroom. They also provide extension exercises as an option for your students.

Log on to www.catholicschools.ie  to download the CSW 2020 resources.

January 30^th                         St Aidan (St Mogue) first Bishop of Ferns

Just a reminder to those who may have celebrated the feast day of St. Aidan of a lovely story and further information from Mary Colleary of Templeport,  who sent in this information to shed light on our Christian heritage.

Naomh Máedóc as Cavan people know him was born in my native parish of Templeport in west Cavan (550AD). Each year on Naomh Máedóc’s feast day, the 31st of January, we commemorate his life with a pilgrimage to “Inish Island also known as St Mogues island” on Templeport lake opposite my home. Pilgrimages recite prayers walking anti-clockwise within the ruins of the church there. It is believed Naomh Máedóc was born on this Island. Visitors take home clay from the corner of the church ruins with the belief that those who have it in their homes or on their person while travelling by car, plane or boat will not be harmed. Locals credit the belief in the power of the clay to the saving of a local lady from drowning on the Titanic.

For over 100 years up until the early 1980 the Island was a graveyard in which so many local deceased family members were buried including my own. My Grandfather was the oars man for 50 yrs. of the “Cot boat” that took the remains of each deceased for burial on the island. Families can still visit their family graves each summer, on August bank holiday Monday.

As parishioners of Templeport we treasure the connection with the Diocese of Ferns where we believe Naomh Máedóc served the final years of his ministry as Bishop there among its people.

Knowing the Christian commitment of the other saints whose feasts day we celebrate, we have the privilege as educators in faith, of preserving and nourishing young people’s faith in this rich heritage. Mary Colleary (Mc Govern)

February   1st                                        St. Brigid’s Day / Lá Fhéile Bríde

Brigid is one of the great saints of Ireland.  Irish people have prayed to her for many hundreds of years. St. Brigid was Abbess of the monastery at Cill Dara (the Church of the Oak in the 6^th century. Tradition tells us that as Brigid explained the passion and death of Christ to the dying pagan chieftain she took some rushes from the floor of the bothán and fashioned a cross. The Old Irish custom of placing a St. Brigid’s cross over the doors of dwelling houses and animal shelters thus began. People believed that in so doing Brigid would look after their households and stock and that full and plenty would be theirs in the year ahead. Later the custom of sprinkling the cross with holy water and invoking the following blessing began: “May the Father, Son, Holy Spirit and St. Brigid bless this cross and all who look upon it.” People ask her blessing on themselves, their families and their work. They use her name in prayer. “Brid agus Muire dhuit” was one old Irish blessing. For further resources and a short video on how to make St. Brigid’s day crosses see:

http://education.dublindiocese.ie/2012/02/21/ppsaintbrigid/https://www.icatholic.ie/how-to-make-st-brigid-cross/ https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=453

 

Féile Bríde – Brigid’s Festival is a week- long series of events commencing on the eve of St. Brigid’s Day, the first day of February.

Féile Bríde, incorporates a Peace and Justice conference in collaboration with Afri – Action from Ireland, workshops, and a candle-lit ritual on Brigid’s Eve at the well. Pilgrimage and a Peace and Justice Conference are core components. For further information see http://solasbhride.ie/feile-bride/

 

February 2nd                    Presentation of the Lord / Candlemas Day

Toirbhirt an Linbh Íosa sa Teampall/ Lá Fhéile Muire na gCoinnle

Today the Church celebrates the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, which occurs forty days after the birth of Jesus and is also known as Candlemas day, where the blessing and procession of candles is included in today’s liturgies.

In obedience to the Old Law, the Lord Jesus, the first-born, was presented in the Temple by his Blessed Mother and his foster father. This is another ‘epiphany’ celebration insofar as the Christ Child is revealed as the Messiah through the canticle and words of Simeon and the testimony of Anna the prophetess. Christ is the light of the nations, hence the blessing and procession of candles on this day. In the Middle Ages this feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, or ‘Candlemas,’ was of great importance.

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-02-02

 

February 3rd                      Feast Day of St. Blaise /Lá Fhéile Naomh Bláisias

Saint Blaise was the bishop of Sebastea and a doctor. The first known record of the saint’s life comes from the medical writings of Aëtius Amidenus, where he is recorded as helping with patients suffering from objects stuck in their throat. Many of the miraculous aspects of St. Blaise’s life are written of 400 years after his martyrdom in the “Acts of St. Blaise.” Saint Blaise is believed to begin as a healer then, eventually, became a “physician of souls.” He then retired to a cave, where he remained in prayer. People often turned to Saint Blaise for healing miracles. St. Blaise is known as the Patron of throat Illnesses. For some short, interesting videos on St. Blaise see:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yGRtx_ITgAhttps://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=28

 

February 8th     International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking

Lá Idirnáisiunta chun aird a dhíriú ar mhangaireacht daonna agus guí ina choinne

Pope Francis has stated, “Human Trafficking is a crime against humanity.” “It’s a disgrace that people are treated as objects, deceived, raped, often sold many times for different purposes and, in the end, killed or, in any case, physically and mentally damaged, ending up thrown away and abandoned.”

“I encourage those who work helping the men, women and children who are enslaved, exploited, abused as instruments of work or pleasure, who are often tortured and mutilated. It is my hope that government leaders may work decisively to remove the causes of this disgraceful scourge; it is a scourge unworthy of society. May each one of us feel committed to being a voice for our brothers and sisters, who have been humiliated in their dignity.”

https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2019/04/11/pope-francis-calls-human-trafficking-a-crime-against-humanity/

The feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita (1869 to 1947) is 8th February. The Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and the International Union of Superiors General has designated 8th February, her feast day, as an annual day of prayer and awareness against human trafficking.

Josephine was kidnapped as a child and sold into slavery in southern Sudan and Italy. Once Josephine was freed, she became a Canossian nun and dedicated her life to sharing her testament of deliverance from slavery and comforting the poor and suffering. She was declared a Saint in 2000 and is the Patron Saint for Anti-Trafficking in the Catholic faith.

On this day Catholics all over the world are encouraged to host or attend prayer services to create greater awareness against human trafficking and for those who work to end human trafficking.. Through prayer, we not only reflect on the experiences of those that have suffered through this affront to human dignity, but also comfort, strengthen, and help empower victims and survivors.

https://www.franciscans.ie/human-trafficking-day-of-prayer/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNGEnPpbT-k

 

February 11thWorld Day of the Sick and the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes

Lá Domhanda na nEaslán agus Taibhsiú na Maighdine Muire i Lourdes

February 11th is World Day of the Sick, an observation started by Pope John Paul II as a way for believers to offer prayers for those suffering from illnesses. The day coincides with the commemoration of Our Lady of Lourdes.

People around the world take the time to pray for the sick and for those who work very hard to alleviate the sufferings of the sick on this day. Faith organisations mark this day especially to provide the sick with medicines, food, and spiritual guidance.

https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/world-day-of-the-sick-2020/

 

World Day of the Sick2020: This year’s theme is on Hope in the Face of Suicide. 

The World Day of the Sick Seminar will take place on Saturday, February 8^th  from9.30am to 1.00pm in the Newtown Parish Pastoral Centre, Newtownpark Avenue, Blackrock, Co Dublin.

The World Day of the Sick Mass will take place on Sunday 9^th February in Church of the Guardian Angels, Newtontownpark Avenue, Blackrock.

For further information please contact – Trish Conway on M:  087 6220349.

 https://www.dublindiocese.ie/world-day-of-the-sick-2020/

 

Our Lady of Lourdes /Muire Lourdes

Today marks the first apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1858 to fourteen-year-old Marie Bernade (St. Bernadette) Soubirous. Between February 11 and July 16, 1858, the Blessed Virgin appeared eighteen times, and showed herself to St. Bernadette in the hollow of the rock at Lourdes. On March 25, she said to the little shepherdess who was only fourteen years of age: “I am the Immaculate Conception.” Since then Lourdes has become a place of pilgrimage and many cures and conversions have taken place. The message of Lourdes is a call to personal conversion, prayer, and charity.

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-02-11

 

February 11^th          International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Lá Idirnáisiúnta Tiomnaithe do Mhná agus do Chailíní san Eolaíocht

In order to achieve full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls, and further achieve gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/70/212 declaring 11 February as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.

 

“On this International Day, I urge commitment to end bias, greater investments in science, technology, engineering and math education for all women and girls as well as opportunities for their careers and longer-term professional advancement so that all can benefit from their ground-breaking future contributions,” UN Secretary-General, António Guterres.

https://www.womeninscienceday.org/

 

February 11thSafer Internet Day /Sábháilteacht ar an Idirlíon

“Together for a better internet“/“Le chéile le haghaidh sábháilteachta na hIdirlíne”

Get set for Safer Internet Day 2020, taking place on Tuesday, 11 February 2020, when – once again – we’ll join forces across the globe to work “Together for a better internet“.

Excellent resources and the latest news and articles about the campaign available at: https://www.saferinternetday.org/web/sid/resources/gallery

February 14th                     St. Valentine / Naomh Vailintín, Pátrún an Ghrá

Saint Valentine, officially known as Saint Valentine of Rome, is a third-century Roman saint widely celebrated on February 14 and commonly associated with “courtly love”. Although not much of St. Valentine’s life is reliably known, and whether or not the stories involve two different saints by the same name is also not officially decided, it is highly agreed that St. Valentine was martyred and then buried on the Via Flaminia to the north of Rome.

 

 

http://www.carmelites.ie/stvalentine.html  https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=159

http://education.dublindiocese.ie/2012/02/21/saint-valentine/

 

February 20th                                World Day of Social Justice

Lá Domhanda Tiomnaithe do Cheartas Sóisialta

Since 2009, every 20 February has been the UN observance known as “World Day of Social Justice”. The purpose of the day is to focus on the plight of social injustice throughout the world and to press for improvements and solutions.

“Social justice” is defined, for the purpose of the observance, as including issues of poverty, unemployment, and unfair exclusion that results in economic harm or social ostracism.

On World Day of Social Justice, there are media campaigns to raise awareness of the need for better social justice both within nations and between nations. Promoting human rights, removing artificial social barriers based on race, gender, or religion, and standing up for the rights of migrants, the disabled, and the elderly are among the observance’s themes on any given year.

http://education.dublindiocese.ie/2013/01/28/poverty/

http://www.un.org/en/events/socialjusticeday/background.shtml

 

Other Important Dates/Information to Note! /

Laethanta Tábhachtacha eile/ Eolas le Meabhrú!

1^st February                             Re: Catholic School Week 2020/“Mary the Teacher”

The Education Secretariat are organising a day of prayer and reflection for those who are involved in Catholic Education.  This event will take place during Catholic Schools Week on:

Gabham molta Bhríde,

Ionúin í le hÉirinn,

Ionúin  le gach tír í,

Molaimis go léir í.

 

Tig an geimhreadh dian dubh

’Gearradh lena ghéire;

Ach ar lá ’le Bríde

Gar dúinn earrach Éireann.

 

Lóchrann geal na Laighneach

’Soilsiú feadh na tíre,                                 (Traidisiúnta,  Veritas Hymnal 136)

Ceann ar ógha Éireann,

Ceann na mban ar míne.

 

“Anois teacht an earraigh, beidh ’n lá ’dul chun síneadh,

Is  taréis na Féil’ Bríde ardóidh mé mo sheol.”

 

( Antaine  Raiftearaí)

 

Cinnire:   Inniu, an chéad lá Feabhra, Lá Fhéile Bríde, Muire na nGael, Pátrún na hÉireann.  Rugadh Bríd i bhFochairt láimh le Dún Dealgan sa bhliain 451, deich mbliana roimh bhás Phádraig Naofa.  Taoiseach de chuid Cúige Laighean ba ea a hathair, Dúbhthach.  Sclábhaí ba ea a máthair, Brocseach.  Críostaí ba ea a máthair agus baisteadh Bríd ina Críostaí.  Bheartaigh Bríd a bheith ina bean rialta agus bhunaigh sí mainistreacha i gCill Dara agus in áiteanna eile.  Tá an-chuid scéalta i dtaobh a cineáltais do bhochtáin, d’easláin, d’ainmhithe agus i dtaobh a muinín i nDia.  Tá toibreacha Bhríde ar fud na tíre agus tá a lán nósanna ag baint le Lá Fhéile Bríde.  Fuair sí bás thart faoin mbliain 524.

 

Beannú  agus  Dáileadh  na  gCros

 

Déantar uisce coisricthe a chroitheadh ar chrosa Bhríde agus deirtear an phaidir seo:

 

“Go raibh beannacht an Athar, an Mhic is an Spioraid Naoimh ar na crosa seo, ar na háiteanna ina bhfuil siad agus ar gach duine a fhéachann orthu.”

 

Dáiltear iad ansin  agus deirtear an phaidir seo:

 

“Go dtuga lasair Bhríde spreagadh duit.

Go dtuga crios Bhríde slánú duit.

Go dtuga cruthaíocht Bhríde slí duit.”

 

Paidreacha:

Bhí creideamh láidir ag Bríd.  Chuir sí a muinín go hiomlán i nDia agus tháinig Dia i gcabhair uirthi.  Guímis go muiníneach chun Dé mar a rinne Bríd.

 

1. A Dhia, neartaigh ár gcreideamh, ár ndóchas agus ár ngrá.  A Thiarna, éist linn.  A Thiarna, bí ceansa agus éist linn.

 

1. Bhí Bríd cineálta leis na bochtáin agus na heasláin.  A Dhia, cabhraigh linn aithris a dhéanamh uirthi.  A Thiarna, éist linn.  A Thiarna, bí ceansa agus éist linn.

 

1. Bhí grá ag Bríd d’ainmhithe, d’éin agus do gach rud a chruthaigh Dia.  Múin dúinn, a Dhia, conas aire a thabhairt don imshaol.  A Thiarna, éist linn.  A Thiarna, bí ceansa agus éist linn. 

 

1. Rinne Bríd réiteach idir dhaoine.  A Dhia, taispeáin dúinn conas  síocháin a chothú pé áit ina mbeimid.  A Thiarna, éist linn.  A Thiarna, bí ceansa agus éist linn.

 

1. A Dhia, tabhair saoirse ó chogadh, ó ghorta agus ó ghéarleanúint dóibh siúd atá ag fulaingt.  A Thiarna, éist linn.  A Thiarna, bí ceansa agus éist linn.

 

A Dhia, bhronn tú do ghrásta go fial ar Bhríd chun do ghrá agus do thrócaire a léiriú do mhuintir na hÉireann.  Beannaigh ár dtír agus líon ár gcroíthe le do ghrásta ionas go mbeimid ábalta grá Dé a léiriú agus síocháin agus aontacht a chothú pé áit ina mbeimid.     Sin é ár nguí chugat trí Chríost á dTiarna.   Áiméan.

 

Duan Bhríd

Dearc anuas, féach mar atáimid,                                   

A Naomh álainn, féach sinn.

Feacaimid ár nglúna id’ láthair.

Dearc mar mháthair ar do chlainn.

Cuidigh linn, a mháthair aoibhinn,

Bí choíche ag éisteacht linn,

A Naomh Bríd, a Chéile Chríosta,

Mar an faoileán ar an tuinn.

 

Níl aon áit ’na bhfuil na Gaeil

Ar an saol seo abhus, ná thall

Nach bhfuil grá acu’na gcroíthe

Ortsa, a Bhríd gheal, moch is mall.

Líon le grá an croí atá brúite.

Bain den tsúil atá fliuch, a deoir.

Stiúraigh, treoraigh, ardaigh sinne

Nó go dtagaimid id’ ghlóir.

       

 Ceol:    Cecilia Sinnott                                               Aistriúchán:    Dubhghlas de hÍde

 

Lá  Fhéile  Naomh  Bláisias,  3ú Feabhra

 

Easpag agus mairtíreach a mhair i Sebaste san Airméin sa 4ú aois ba ea Naomh Bláisias.  Tá sé sa traidisiún go raibh sé ina dhochtúir leighis sarar deineadh Easpag de agus gur leigheas sé buachaill a bhí á thachtadh.  Tugtar onóir dó mar phátrún daoine a bhfuil tinneas scornaí orthu.

Is comhartha é, beannú na scornach, dár gcreideamh i nDia a thugann aire dúinn agus a thugann grá do dhaoine atá tinn.

 

Beannú  na  Scornach

Trí idirghuí Naomh Bláisias,

Easpag agus Mairtíreach,

go gcosnaí Dia tú ó gach éalang scornaí

agus ó gach tinneas eile,

trí Chríost ár dTiarna.   Amen.

 

 

 

Ceiliúradh  Cairdis

 

Lá  Fhéile Vailintín,  Pátrún  an  Ghrá 14ú Feabhra

 

Coinneal chumhra, ‘croíthe’ dearga,  cártaí réamh-dhéanta

 

Cinnire:   Táimid ag ceiliúradh Lá Fhéile Vailintín, Pátrún an Ghrá.

 

Cérbh é Naomh Vailintín?   Sagart agus mairtíreach a cuireadh chun báis sa Róimh breis is 1,700 bliain ó shin.

 

Cén fáth gur cuireadh chun báis é?   Mar thug sé a bheannacht do lánúineacha a bhí i ngrá!  Ní raibh fonn ar na fir óga san am sin troid in arm an Impire Rómhánaigh, Claudius.  Chuir Claudius an milleán ar na mná agus d’ordaigh sé gach pósadh agus gealltanas pósta a chur ar ceal agus bhí an bás i ndán d’aon duine a chuirfeadh ina choinne.  Níor aontaigh Vailintí leis sin. Cuireadh i bpríosún é agus dícheannadh é sa Róimh ar an 14ú Feabhra 269/270 A.D.

 

An bhfuil aon bhaint aige le Baile Átha Cliath?   Tá a thaisí in Eaglais na gCairmilíteach i Sráid na mBráithre Bána.  Tugann lánúineacha cuairt ar an scrín ansin chun a bheannacht a iarraidh ar a bpóstaí.

 

Cad is grá ann?   Seo mar a deir Naomh Pól:

“Bíonn an grá foighneach agus bíonn sé lách; ní bhíonn éad air; ní dhéanann sé maíomh ná mórtas; ní bhíonn sé mí-mhúinte ná leithleasach…  Ní áil leis an éagóir ach is aoibhinn leis an mhaith.  Bíonn sé lán..de chreideamh, lán de dhóchas agus lán d’fhoighne.”   ( 1 Cor. 13: 4 -7)

 

An duine grámhar tusa?

An mbíonn tú foighneach.. lách.. gan éad.. gan mhaíomh.. gan a bheith mí-mhúinte.. gan a bheith leithleasach..?

An bhfuil aithne agat ar aon duine go bhfuil na tréithe sin aici/aige?

 

Cinnire:   Tá cártaí Vailintín anseo, cártaí inar scríobh sibh rudaí maithe i dtaobh a chéile agus táim chun iarraidh ar Dhia iad a bheannú.

 

Beannú  na  gCártaí

 

A Dhia, cuir do bheannacht ar na cártaí seo ina gcuirimid ár ngrá do dhaoine eile in iúl mar a rinne Naomh Vailintín.  Go gcuire na cártaí seo áthas, lúcháir, aoibhneas agus gliondar ar na daoine a scríobh iad agus ar na daoine a gheobhaidh iad.   Sin é ár nguí chugat trí Chríost ár dTiarna.  Áiméan

 

Déantar uisce coisricthe a chroitheadh ar na cártaí.

 

Cad as a dtagann an grá?   Seo mar a deir Naomh Eoin:

“Tugaimis grá dá chéile mar gur ó Dhia an grá agus an té a thugann grá is ó Dhia a rugadh é, agus aithníonn sé Dia..mar is é Dia an Grá…  Sheol sé a aonmhac sa saol le go mairimis-ne trídsean..ós fíor gur thug Dia grá dúinne nach mithid dúinne grá athabhairt dá chéile… Má thugaimid grá dá chéile maireann Dia ionainn.”      (1 Eoin 4 : 7 – 12)

 

 

Cad is fíor-ghrá ann?   Seo mar a deir Naomh Eoin:

“Ná tugaimis grá briathair ná cainte amháin, ach grá gnímh agus fírinne.”

(1 Eoin 3: 18)

 

Paidreacha

 

1. A Dhia ghrámhair, níl teorainn le do ghrá. Is cuma an bhfuilimid dathúil nó mí-dheas, bocht nó saibhir, óg nó aosta, tugann tú grá dúinn.  Cabhraigh linn-ne aithris a dhéanamh ar do ghrá.

 

1. A Dia, is tú údar gach maitheasa, taispeáin dúinn conas an mhaith a aithint i ngach duine a chastar orainn.

 

1. A Dhia, cabhraigh linn fíor-ghrá a chleachtadh, ní le briathra amháin, ach le gníomhartha chomh maith, mar a rinne do mhac, Íosa agus Naomh Vailintín.

 

1. Iarraimid ort, a Dhia, do bheannacht a chur ar ár gcairdis. Cuir i gcuimhne dúinn, a Dhia, go bhfuil an grá i gcroí-lár na beatha, agus go bhfuil seirbhís do dhaoine eile i gcroí-lár an ghrá.

 

1. A Dhia flaithiúil, tugann tú grá dúinn gan choinníollacha.  Ní chaillimid do ghrá nuair a dhéanaimid peaca agus maireann do ghrá-sa go deo.  Ná lig dúinn dearmad a dhéanamh air sin choíche.

 

Cinnire:  Imigí faoi shíocháin chun grá agus seirbhís a thabhairt dá chéile.  Áiméan.

 

Cairde  Dílse 

 

Tá cairde agat, ní gá duit  bheith leat féin.

Bí buíoch dóibh siúd, ní gá duit bheith leat féin.

Tá tú láidir, ní bheidh tú i d’aonar go deo.

Má bhíonn sé fliuch, tugann siad foscadh duit. 

Má bhíonn tú tinn, tugann siad faoiseamh duit.

Ardóidh siad do chroí, má bhíonn tú faoi bhrón.

 Curfá

Cairde dílse mór-thimpeall ort,

Cairde dílse i gcónaí leat,

Cairde dílse mór-thimpeall ort go deo.

 

2

Má tá cairde i bhfad ó chéile

Bíonn siad fós i bpáirt le chéile.

Ní bhíonn siad riamh go brónach leo féin.

Bíonn siad ag smaoineamh ort,

Is i gcónaí ag guí duit.

Ní bheidh tú i d’aonar go deo.

 Fil Uí Dhubhghaill,     Finbar O’Connor,  ó Beo Go Deo  8

 

January 2020

Posted on Jan. 12th 2020

January 6^thThe Epiphany

Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Epiphany. “The Lord and ruler is coming; kingship is his, and government and power.” With these words the Church proclaims that today’s feast brings to a perfect fulfilment all the purposes of Advent.

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-01-05

 

January 13th                Feast of the Baptism of our Lord /Féile Bhaisteadh an Tiarna

“And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”

“Tháinig glór ó na flaithis a dúirt, “Is é seo mo Mhac muirneach dár thug mé gnaoi.”

Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Baptism of Our Lord. This brings to an end the season of Christmas. The Church recalls Our Lord’s second manifestation or epiphany, “Epiphany” means “manifestation”, a making present, a revealing, which occurred on the occasion of His baptism in the Jordan. Jesus descended into the River to sanctify its waters and to give them the power to beget sons of God. The event takes on the importance of a second creation in which the entire Trinity intervenes.

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-01-http://education.dublindiocese.ie/ppbaptismresources/

 

January 18th-25th                      Christian Unity Week /Aontacht Chríosta

The materials for the 2020 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity have been prepared by the Christian churches in Malta and Gozo (Christians Together in Malta). On 10th February many Christians in Malta celebrate the Feast of the Shipwreck of St Paul, marking and giving thanks for the arrival of Christian faith on these islands. The reading from the Acts of the Apostles used for the feast is the text chosen for this year’s Week of Prayer. In such tempestuous journeys and chance encounters, God’s will for his Church and all people comes to fulfilment. As Paul will proclaim in Rome, this salvation of God has been sent to all peoples (see Acts 28:28)

You can find updates about the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity on Twitter by following the #wpcu2020 hashtag.

Hospitality is a much needed virtue in our search for Christian unity. It calls us to a greater generosity to those in need. The people who showed unusual kindness to Paul and his companions did not yet know Christ, and yet it is through their unusual kindness that a divided people were drawn closer together. Our own Christian unity will be discovered not only through showing hospitality to one another, but also through loving encounters with those who do not share our language, culture or faith. For further resources see: https://ctbi.org.uk/weekofprayer

 

January 20th                Celebrate World Religion Day / Ceiliúradh Domhanda ar Reiligiún

The aim of World Religion Day, held on the third Sunday in January every year, is to promote inter-faith understanding and harmony. Through a variety of events held around the globe, followers of every religion are encouraged to acknowledge the similarities that different faiths have. The purpose of World Religion Day is to highlight the ideas that the spiritual principles underlying the world’s religions are harmonious, and that religions play a significant role in unifying humanity

https://www.twinkl.ie/event/world-religion-day-2020

https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/world-religion-day-2020/

 

January 21st                      Martin Luther King Day / Lá in onóir Martin Luther King

Martin Luther King Day is a federal holiday held on the third Monday of January. It celebrates the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr., an influential American civil rights leader.

Martin Luther King was born in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 15th 1929, in the heart of the American south. From an early age, he was aware that black people were not treated as equal citizens in America. Martin Luther King was a Christian. He became a doctor of theology and in 1954 a Baptist minister in Montgomery, Alabama. He believed that the only way to achieve equality was by non-violent and peaceful forms of protest. He is well known for his campaigns to end racial segregation on public transport and for racial equality in the United States.

Further resources can be found at: http://education.dublindiocese.ie/ppmartinlutherkingresources/,

This has clear links with Section F of the Junior Certificate Syllabus (old) ‘The Moral Challenge’ Part 4 and ‘Religious Morality in Action’. They can also be used with Senior Cycle R.E classes.

 

January 22^nd                Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children

January 22 is the anniversary of Roe v. Wade and the day established by the Church of penance for abortion, has been formally named as the “Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children.” All human beings are created in the image and likeness of God.

Love is not merely a feeling, but is rather the desire for the best possible good for those whom we love. Through our natural intelligence and through Divine Revelation we become aware of the value of this most basic of all gifts which is life. Mere reason leads us to comprehend that it is better to be alive than never have had been in existence. The knowledge of the value of life that comes through revelation leads us to understand better this gift and to appreciate it: as a result, we worship and love more and more the Giver of this gift. This love is what moves us to protect the life of the unborn or any who might be unjustly treated.

 

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-01-22

 

January 24th                         St. Francis de Sales / Naomh Proinsias de Sales

The Salesian Society, founded by Saint John Bosco, takes its distinctive name from its patron, Saint Francis de Sales. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/13398b.htm

St. Francis de Sales was a man whose conduct and manners were not the least of the means by which he brought many souls to God.  It was he who recommended that everyone who wished to practice charity should cultivate what he called “the little virtues”:  friendliness, courtesy, good manners, consideration, patience and understanding, especially with the difficult.” (Frank Duff – Servant of God)

We can epitomize the character of St. Francis in two words: kindliness and loveableness — virtues that were the secret of his success. Born on August 21, 1567, and ordained to the priesthood in 1593. From 1594 to 1598 he laboured at the difficult and dangerous task of preaching to the Protestants of Chablais and effected the return of some 70,000 souls to the Catholic faith. In 1602 he became Bishop of Genf. His zeal for souls is attested in 21,000 extant letters and 4,000 sermons, and his writings reflect his kind-heartedness and sweet disposition.

O God, who for the salvation of souls willed that the Bishop Saint Francis de Sales become all things to all, graciously grant that, following his example, we may always display the gentleness of your charity in the service of our neighbour.

Amen

 

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-01-24

https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=51

 

January 25th                     The Conversion of St. Paul / Iompú Naomh Pól

“Rejoice in hope, endure in affliction, persevere in prayer” (Romans 12:12).

St. Paul is one of the most important and influential of all the saints. Many of his writings are contained in the Canon of the Bible and have influenced the growth and development of the Church since the first century. St. Paul was originally known as Saul, and he was a Roman citizen and a Pharisee. The story of Paul’s Conversion reminds us of our continual need for conversion.

The Conversion of St. Paul begins when Paul was Saul, a devout son of Israel (Phil. 3:6).  Saul hunted his theological enemies, the Christians, wherever they resided.  He witnessed and approved of the murder of St. Stephen.  He was on the way to Damascus to arrest more Christians when a bright light knocked him to the ground.  A voice asked, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?”  When Saul asked this victim’s identity, the voice replied, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.”  This was the moment of conversion, the moment where Saul ceased and Paul proceeded.  No argument convinced this master of the Law; it was an encounter with the risen Christ, whom Saul had been persecuting in his war against Christians.

https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=91

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-01-25https://catholicexchange.com/st-paul-school-conversion

 

 

January 27th                     Holocaust Memorial Day / Lá Cuimhneacháin ar an Il-loscadh

Don’t be content in your life just to do no wrong, be prepared every day to try and do some good.

– Sir Nicholas Winton, who rescued 669 children from Nazi-occupied Europe

Holocaust Memorial Day 2020 marks 75 years since the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp. The theme for HMD 2020 is: Stand Together. Holocaust Memorial Day 2020 also marks the 25^th anniversary of the Genocide in Bosnia.

Read more here: https://www.hmd.org.uk/learn-about-the-holocaust-and-genocides/bosnia/

Holocaust Memorial Day Trust (HMDT) encourages remembrance in a world scarred by genocide. We promote and support Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) – the international day on 27 January to remember the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust, alongside the millions of other people killed under Nazi Persecution and in subsequent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.

The Holocaust threatened the fabric of civilisation, and genocide must still be resisted every day. Our world often feels fragile and vulnerable and we cannot be complacent. Prejudice and the language of hatred must be challenged by us all. HMD is for everyone.

https://www.hmd.org.uk/take-part-in-holocaust-memorial-day/holocaust-memorial-day-2020/

 

 

January 28th                   Feast Day of St. Thomas Aquinas / Féile Naomh Tomás Acuin

St. Thomas Aquinas is the Dominican order’s greatest glory. He taught philosophy and theology with such genius that he is considered one of the leading Christian thinkers. His innocence, on a par with his genius, earned for him the title of “Angelic Doctor.”

St. Thomas ranks among the greatest writers and theologians of all time. His most important work, the Summa Theologiae, an explanation and summary of the entire body of Catholic teaching, has been standard for centuries, even to our own day.

This Student’s prayer is attributed to him and can be used with your students.

Creator of all things, true source of light and wisdom, origin of all being, graciously let a ray of your light penetrate the darkness of my understanding. Take from me the double darkness in which I have been born, an obscurity of sin and ignorance. Give me a keen understanding, a retentive memory, and the ability to grasp things correctly and fundamentally. Grant me the talent of being exact in my explanations and the ability to express myself with thoroughness and charm. Point out the beginning, direct the progress, and help in the completion. I ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

 

https://stream.org/prayers-thomas-aquinas/http://education.dublindiocese.ie/st-thomas-aquinas/

https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=2530

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2020-01-28

 

January 27th-3rd FebCatholic Schools Week 2020

‘Living in Harmony With God’s Creation’/ Maireachtáil go Sítheach Le Gach ar Chruthaigh Dia.

Catholic Schools Week 2020 will be celebrated from Sunday 26 January to Sunday 2 February 2020 on the theme ‘Living in Harmony With God’s Creation’. The theme encourages us to see that we all have a responsibility to care for the earth, not just for our own future, but for the future of every one of God’s creatures.

Again, this year, resources for Catholic Schools Week will be available online. All lessons have resources for both Junior and Senior Cycle. Each lesson contains practices which support the national Literacy and Numeracy Strategy, as well as self-reflective practices as a way of supporting assessment in the classroom. They also provide extension exercises as an option for your students.

Log on to www.catholicschools.ie  to download the CSW 2020 resources.

 

January 30^th                                         Feast Day of St. Aidan of Ferns

Naomh Maodhóg  (Aodhán)  Priomhéarlamh Deoise Fhearna

St. Aidan Bishop and missionary, born in Inisbrefny, in County Cavan, circa 550, who is probably to be identified with Aidan. As a small boy, he was held as a hostage by Aedh Ainmire, High King of Ireland, probably to ensure the loyalty of his family. Released, Aidan studied at Kilmuine, in Wales, a famed institute of Christian learning conducted by St. David.  In 580, he returned to Ireland, going to the coast of Wexford. He served the area and was honoured by Bran Dubh at the synod held to celebrate victory over King Aedh. Ferns, the area in which Aidan conducted his priestly ministry, was elevated at this time to the status of a diocese. Aidan was appointed the first Bishop of Ferns and became Ard-Escops or Chief Bishop of the region.  In time he was called Mogue, “the beloved Aidan.”  The episcopal seat is no longer in Ferns but in Enniscorthy, where a Cathedral was dedicated to Aidan.

http://www.staidanscathedral.ie/our-parish/a-brief-history/

http://education.dublindiocese.ie/st-aidan-of-ferns/

 

January 31st                        Feast Day of St. Don Bosco / Féile Naomh Eoin Bosco

St. John Bosco was the founder of the Salesian Society, named in honour of St. Francis de Sales, and of the Daughters of Mary, Help of Christians. There are currently 15,560 members (priests and brothers) in the Salesian Congregation, working in 131 countries around the world.

The Salesians have been working in Ireland since 1919. They work for young people in a number of centres and services throughout the country. They are involved in schools, care homes, university hostels, parishes, agricultural education, chaplaincy, spirituality centres, retreats and prayer, the social media, drug rehabilitation and non-formal education.

St. John Bosco’s lifework was the welfare of young boys and girls, hence his title, “Apostle of Youth.” He had no formal system or theory of education. His methods centred on persuasion, authentic religiosity, and love for young people. He was an enlightened educator and innovator.

Don Bosco is a man of many colours: priest, saint, founder, mystic, and prophet, servant of the young and the poor, educator, pastor, social activist, evangelist, healer, writer, churchman. He is a man aflame with the glowing fire of Sinai shining through myriad activities, talents and charismatic gifts; truly a man of God wrapped in an ecstasy of love-filled and hope-filled action with a worldwide reach.

Fr. Bosco died on January 31, 1888. The call for his canonization was immediate.  Pope Pius XI knew Fr. Bosco personally and agreed, declaring him blessed in 1929. St. John Bosco was canonized on Easter Sunday, 1934 and he was given the title, “Father and Teacher of Youth”.

https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2019-01-31

http://education.dublindiocese.ie/st-don-bosco/

https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=63

 

Naomh Eoin Bosco (1815-1888)

Rugadh Naomh Eoin Bosco ar 16 Lúnasa 1815 d’Aisti Piedmont san Iodáil. Bhí drochbhail ar eacnamaíocht na hIodáile tar éis Chogaí Napoléon. Caitlicigh an-tughta do Dhia ab ea a theaghlach. Fuair a athair bás nuair a bhí Eoin dhá bhliain d’aois agus bhí ar a mháthair soláthair dá triúr mac. Bhí tionchar mór aici ar mhúnlú pearsan Eoin. Sa bhliain 1825 nuair a bhí sé naoi mbliana d’aois bhí a chéad aisling, de mhórán díobh aige. Cuireadh in iúl dó, go mbeadh tionchar mór aige ar shaol buachaillí bochta a bhíodh ag imirt cluichí agus ag mallachtach le linn dóibh bheith ag súgradh.Thosaigh sé ag caint leo agus ag léiriú dóibh nach raibh an ceart acu. De bharr na bochtaineachta, ní bhfuair sé aon scolaíocht agus chaith sé tús a shaol mar aoire.

Fuair sé a bhun oideachas ó shagart paróiste a chuaigh i bhfeidhm go mór air agus a spreag é chun bheith ina shagart, cé ag an am ba iad daoine mór le rá a théadh leis an ghairm sagartóireachta. Ba fheirmeoirí  muintir Bhosco. D’fhág sé a bhaile féin nuair a bhí sé dhá bhliain déag d’aois agus fuair sé breis oideachais ó shagart aosta, Joseph Cafasso a thug faoi deara na buanna ar leith a bhí ag Eoin. Chuaigh sé go dtí cliarscoil agus tar éis sé bliana ornaíodh ina shagart é. Ba mhian a chroí é, cabhrú leis an aos óg agus go mór mór le páistí na mbocht. Theastaigh uaidh leas buan a dhéanamh dóibh. Bhunaigh sé Cuallacht na Sailéisineach sa bhliain 1852 chun freastal ar na hoibre sin agus Cuallacht Mhná Rialta sa bhliain 1852 ar a dtugtar Siúracha na Maighdine, Cabhair na gCríostaithe. Is iomaí cineál oibre ar son na hEaglaise a raibh lámh aige ann. Bhí an- mhuinín aige as Dia agus an Mhaighdean Mhuire. Chloígh sé gach deacracht i gcúrsaí a chuid oibre le cúnamh Dé. Fuair se bás sa bhliain1888.

Naomhainmnigh an Pápa Pius X1 é sa bhliain 1934. Ceiliúrtar a lá fhéile ar 31 Eanáir gach bliain.

A Dhia, a roghnaigh Naomh Eoin Bosco le bheith mar athair agus oide ag an aos óg agus a chuir cuallachtaí nua ar bun san Eaglais, gríosaigh le lasracha na carthanachta sinne, le do thoil a dhéanamh ar an saol seo. Áiméan.

 

Posted on Thursday, March 10th 2016

Trócaire Resources

Click the following links to view the Let Your Mercy Vimeo and Laudato Si’ for Young People video that Hannah Evans (Church Officer for Trócaire) made available and here to access the Trócaire Parish Resources for Lent 2016.  I forwarded these to the schools via post as there are a number of helpful resources included for the classroom.

The BackPack Programme

The website for the Backpack team can be viewed here.  They are available for retreats.

On the Margins

Eoin Carroll from the Jesuit Team for Faith and Justice has kindly forwarded the On The Margins resource in electronic format. Click here to view/download the items that Eoin shared.

Global Justice Perspectives

Bríd Dunne, also from the Jesuit Mission Team shared the following resources, they can be viewed here.

 

September Resources 4 – Posted on 15th Sept. 2015

Additional September Resources

It’s time to wish the Jewish community Shana Tovah! today as Rosh Hasanah begins. Check out the links for this celebration on the Dublin Diocesan September Resources page.

BlendSpace – Celtic Spirituality Resource for use with Senior Students

Brendan O’Regan gave a great input on BlendSpace (another great resource for use in the classroom) at a recent event and has kindly shared the material based on BlendSpace & Celtic Spirituality; this is well worth taking a look at with a group of Senior students. If the students have access to Seek and Find, the link could be used as a great introduction or final task, when exploring Lesson 85.

Wherever People are Suffering…

From Twitter, this sentiment seems poignant as the refugee crisis escalates; wherever people are suffering…

As the harrowing images and scenes communicated daily, continue to grip international attention, many of you have been seeking support material. See the following resource, kindly shared by Brίd Dunne (Irish Jesuit Mission Office): Refugee Crisis 2015 (It’s the first resource loaded on this page)

Who Do You Say That I Am?

Sunday’s Gospel offers much potential for exploration in the classroom if we pause and ask ourselves; who do we say that Jesus is? iCatholic has created this beautiful video reflection based on the scripture passage. Perhaps, you have seen this second video before – Who Do You Say That I Am? – but it could work really well used in conjunction with iCatholic‘s offering, to reinforce the message in student-friendly terms.

RE Congress – Mater Dei October 17, 2015

As mentioned previously on my emails, plans for Engaging the Heart, the National Religious Education Congress 2015 are taking shape with plenty of inspiring workshops to avail of… Have you signed up to attend?  Any Kerry R.E. teachers interested please let me know and maybe we can travel as a group.

Pope Francis Emoji!

Take a look at this recent status, shared on Salt + Light’s Twitter feed, I fully agree with Colbert; the smile on Pope Francis’ face is inspirational. Also from Catholic Youth Work via Twitter, perhaps your students will enjoy this; have you got the Pope Emoji’s yet?

Faitharts 11/9/15

On the blog ( www.faitharts.ie/blog.html  ) this week Brendan O’ Regan has been reviewing one of the ‘religious’ episodes of The Simpsons … sometimes useful in class to illustrate a point. This episode was about prayer.

Bluegrass festival in the Ulster Folk Park in Omagh .. what a great venue! The music was excellent if you’re into roots music, and it was great to hear bands including gospel music in their sets .. I was particularly impressed by Viper Central from Canada and delighted to come away with their gospel album Live at the Street Church.
Here’s a flavour from a 2011 concert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJT3P-WNPBM

The resources on the Faitharts Facebook page are mainly music for use in RE:

‘Anyway’, a song by Maggie and Suzzy Roche based on a prayer attributed to Mother Teresa, from the album Zero Church.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGgEpPr6ElY

‘Oh Maria’ – a video clip from the film Sister Act that useful for discussing themes like faith and the arts, the role of church music and more.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHASQg8fR0s

‘Where Do I Go’ a song about prayer by Ashley Cleveland and Gary Chapman from the excellent album Songs From the Loft

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZzUFei6slA

Catholic Ireland news website, another very useful resource for RE which sometimes features arts resources.

http://www.catholicireland.net/category/news/
Faitharts 11/9/15

• On the blog ( www.faitharts.ie/blog.html  ) see The Simpsons … sometimes useful in class to illustrate a point. This episode was about prayer.
• Check out the Bluegrass festival in the Ulster Folk Park in Omagh.  The music was excellent if you’re into roots music, and it was great to hear bands including gospel music in their sets.  Here’s a flavour from a 2011 concert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJT3P-WNPBM
• Listen to a song by Maggie and Suzzy Roche based on a prayer attributed to Mother Teresa, from the album Zero Church. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGgEpPr6ElY
• ‘Oh Maria’ – a video clip from the film Sister Act that useful for discussing themes like faith and the arts, the role of church music and more. Has its corny moments but certainly lively.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHASQg8fR0s
• ‘Where Do I Go’ a song about prayer by Ashley Cleveland and Gary Chapman from the excellent album Songs From the Loft – this album was one of my all time most useful musical resources.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZzUFei6slA
• Catholic Ireland news website, another very useful resource for RE which sometimes features arts resources.http://www.catholicireland.net/category/news/

 

September Resources (2) Posted on 10th Sept.2015

R.E. Congress 2015

• Don’t forget the R.E. Congress in Mater Dei on Sat 17th Oct.  Info and registration details at www.recongress.ie <http://www.recongress.ie>
• Concerns about the teaching of Religion in Irish primary schools. See the following link: http://www.catholicireland.net/concerns-teaching-religion-irish-schools/> http://www.catholicireland.net/concerns-teaching-religion-irish-schools/
• An interesting discussion on inclusivity in Catholic schools can be foundat:  <http://www.icatholic.ie/qof-6-how-inclusive-catholic-schools/> http://www.icatholic.ie/qof-6-how-inclusive-catholic-schools/
• Educators for Conscience group: If you or the parents in your school have questions or comments about the impact of gay marriage on schools see the following link:  http://educatorsforconscience.com/> http://educatorsforconscience.com/
• The Arise Family Holiday Conference will take place during Easter 2016. It will be a 5 day Catholic holiday conference for the whole family, where families can come together to celebrate their faith and receive good teaching. More information can be found and bookings can be made at:http://www.arisefamilyconference.org/> http://www.arisefamilyconference.org/

 

Feast Day Resources

St. Ciarán-9th Sept

We celebrate the feast of St. Ciarán of Clonmacnoise on 9th September. Check out our attached PowerPoint presentation for more information. If you would like to integrate this lesson with History/Geography there is a good lesson on  <http://www.askaboutireland.ie/> www.askaboutireland.ie (Looking at places-Offaly-Clonmacnoise)

 

September Resources 2A – Posted on 4th Sept. 2015

• Click here to view the resources for the month ahead on our website. The School Chaplains’ Association of Ireland website may also prove useful while ACT have some great links too. You can sign up to receive their monthly bulletin by clicking here.
• Planning Resources                                                                                                                   The Planning Resources section of our website may provide some support while you are busy making provisions for the year ahead. In particular, our Guest Speakers & Charity Links page has been updated to include a number of new recommendations. See also our link recommending Retreat Teams & Venues.
• Should you be interested in bringing a group on a Pilgrim Path as a cost-effective retreat experience, click here for some resources that may assist. Furthermore, if you would like some advice about city-based pilgrim paths; please get in touch as I will be happy to assist in this regard.

Missionaries Overseas & Year for Consecrated Life

• This article, written by Charlie Bird, describes his recent visit to the Philippines with World Missions Ireland; perhaps it could be examined with a Senior class group. A film of his time with the Missionaries is currently being edited and will be shared once the final adjustments have been made. World Missions Ireland can be contacted for further details, including school visits etc.
• In conjunction with this, you could also refer to the items specially created to celebrate the Year for Consecrated Life if you did not have the opportunity to explore these with your students before the summer break.
• This prayer for those engaged in Missionary Work could be used to conclude this topic: A Light for Missionaries, written by Jackie Pallas (WMI).

Laudato Si’ – Papal Encyclical

• Much has been written about the latest papal encyclical over the summer and RE Source have prepared this student-friendly summary: Pope Francis & Caring for Our World. Further classroom resources relating to the encyclical will follow in due course.

Igniter Media

• Always a great source of slick worship and prayer videos, Igniter Media‘s latest release, Psalm 145, brings to mind the natural beauty we can see around us on these late summer/early autumn days. For further inspiration, check out these other Psalm mini-movies on their website.

 

September Resources 1 – Posted on 1st Sept. 2015

1. Beginning of Year Ice-Breaker Resources

http://www.thereligionteacher.com/catholic-ice-breakers/?utm_source=The+Religion+Teacher+Newsletter+List&utm_campaign=ddf2c95e54-TRT%3A+Icebreakers+%26+1st+Week+Activities+8-20-15&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_a52a2eb0e6-ddf2c95e54-326428957&mc_cid=ddf2c95e54&mc_eid=d566d403dd

Culture Night:

• This year’s Culture Night takes place on Fri 18^th September programmes and info available here: http://www.culturenight.ie/

Knock Film

• Underground Films are making a documentary on Knock and are having a crowdfunding campaign to finance it. Among other things it will look at what Knock means to those who travel from abroad to the shrine. A new mosaic has been commissioned for the basilica and is being made near Venice. The film will feature behind the scenes footage of this work. For more info and details of the fundraising click here: http://www.catholicireland.net/documentary-knock-seeks-funding/