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November -December 2009
Nov 29 SUN: FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT
1st Reading: Jer 33: 14-16.
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 24: 4-5. 8-9. 10. 14 (1b).
2nd Reading: 1 Thes 3: 12 – 4: 2.
Gospel: Lk 21: 25-28. 34- 36
Advent is a time of waiting, conversion and of hope:
• waiting-memory of the first, humble coming of the lord in our mortal flesh;
• waiting-supplication for his final, glorious coming as lord of History and
universal Judge;
• conversion, to which the liturgy at this time often refers quoting the prophets,
especially John
the Baptist, 'Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand' (Mt 3: 2)
• joyful hope that the salvation already accomplished by Christ (d. Rom 8:2425)
and the reality
of grace in the world will mature and reach their fullness, thereby granting us what is
promised by faith, and 'we-shall become like him for we snail see him as he really is'
(Jn 3:2).
Nov 30 Mon: St Andrew, ap F
1st Reading: Rom 10: 9-18
Response Psalm 18: 8. 9. 10. 11
Gospel: Mt 4: 18-22
The Popes Intentions for December 09
General: That children may be respected and loved and never be the victims of exploitation in its various forms.
Mission: That at Christmas the peoples of the earth may recognise in the Word Incarnate the light which illuminates every human person and that the nations may open their doors to Christ, the Saviour of the world
Dec 1 Tue: Week 1 of Advent
1st Reading: Is 11: 1-10
Response Psalm 71: 1-2. 7-8. 12-13. 17
Gospel: Lk 10: 21-24
Dec 2 Wed: Week 1 of Advent
1st Reading: Is 25: 6-10a
Response Psalm 22: 1-3a. 3b-4. 5. 6
Gospel: Mt 15: 29-37
Dec 3 Thu: Week 1 of Advent
St Francis Xavier, priest, memorial
1st Reading: Is 26: 1-6
Response Psalm 117: 1 and 8-9. 19-21. 25-27a
Gospel: Mt 7: 21. 24-27
Dec 4 Fri: Week 1 of Advent
St John of Damascus, priest and doctor of the Church, optional memorial
1st Reading: Is 29: 17-24
Response Psalm 26: 1. 4. 13-1
Gospel: Mt 9: 27-31
Dec 5 Sat: Week 1 of Advent
1st Reading: Is 30: 19-21. 23-26
Response Psalm 146: 1-2. 3-4. 5-6
Gospel: Mt 9: 35 – 10: 1. 5a. 6-8
Dec 6 SUN: SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT
1st Reading: Bar 5: 1-9
Response Psalm 125: 1-2. 2-3. 4-5. 6 (3)
2nd Reading Phil 1: 4-6. 8-11
Gospel: Lk 3: 1-6
St Nickolas, bishop is not celebrated this year
Dec 7 Mon: Week 2 of Advent
St Ambrose, bishop and doctor of the Church, memorial
1st Reading: Is 35: 1-10
Response Psalm 84: 9ab and 10. 11-12. 13-14
Gospel: Lk 5: 17-26
Dec 8 Tue: The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
1st Reading: Gn 3: 9-15. 20
Response Psalm 97: 1. 2-3ab. 3cd-4
2nd Reading: Eph 1: 3-6. 11-12
Gospel: Lk 1: 26-38
The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We celebrate Mary who from the first instant of her existence in the womb of her mother Anne was 'by a singular grace and privilege of almighty God, and in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, Saviour of the human race, preserved free from all stain of original sin'.
Dec 9 Wed: Week 2 of Advent
St Juan Diego Cuahtlatoatzin, optional memorial
1st Reading: Is 40: 25-31
Response Psalm 102: 1-2. 3-4. 8 and 10
Gospel: Mt 11: 28-30
Dec 10 Thu: Week 2 of Advent
1st Reading: Is 41: 13-20
Response Psalm 144: 1 and 9. 10-11. 12-13ab
Gospel: Mt 11: 11-15
Dec 11 Fri: Week 2 of Advent
St Damasus I, pope, optional memorial
1st Reading: Is 48: 17-19
Response Psalm 1: 1-2. 3. 4 and 6
Gospel: Mt 11: 16-19
Dec 12 Sat: Week 2 of Advent
Our Lady of Guadalupe, optional memorial
St. Finnian, bishop, optional memorial
1st Reading: Eccles (Sir) 48:1-4
Response Psalm 79
Gospel: Mt 17: 10-13
Dec 13 SUN: THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT
1st Reading: Zep 3: 14-18a
Response Is 12: 2-3. 4. 5-6 (6)
2nd Reading: Phil 4: 4-7
Gospel: Lk 3: 10-18
Dec 14 Mon: Week 3 of Advent
St. John of the Cross priest and doctor of the Church memorial
1st Reading: Nm 24: 2-7. 15-17a
Response Psalm 24: 4-5ab. 6 and 7bc. 8-9
Gospel: Mt 21: 23-27
Dec 15 Tue: Week 3 of Advent
1st Reading: Zeph 3: 1-2. 9-13
Response Psalm 33: 2-3. 6-7. 17-18. 19 and 23
Gospel: Mt 21: 28-32
Dec 16 Wed: Week 3 of Advent
1st Reading: Is 45: 6c-8. 18. 21c-25
Response Psalm 84: 9ab and 10. 11-12. 13-14
Gospel: Lk 7: 18b-23
Dec 17-24 Preparation for Christmas
Mass texts are proper for each day according to date
(The joy of the kingdom is anticipated. The signs of the kingdom already come are
given to the messengers of John the Baptist, and they are familiar with the prophecy of Isaiah. Patient waiting for the fulfilment is our Christian duty. There should be no complaining, no giving up or losing of heart. Joy, prayer and thanksgiving should characterise the Christian community. Prayer and reconciliation should be features of these days.)
Dec 17 Thu: Week 3 of Advent
1st Reading: Gn 49: 2. 8-10
Response Psalm 71: 1-2. 3-4ab. 7-8. 17
Gospel: Mt 1: 1-17
Dec 18 Fri: Week 3 of Advent
St Flannan, bishop, memorial
1st Reading: Jer 23: 5-8
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 71: 1-2. 12-13. 18-19
Gospel: Mt 1: 18-25
Dec 19 Sat: Week 3 of Advent
(O Radix Jesse)
1st Reading: Jgs 13: 2-7. 24-25a
Response Psalm 70: 3-4a. 5-6ab. 16-17
Gospel: Lk 1: 5-25
Dec 20 SUN: FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
1st Reading: Mic 5: 1-4a
Response Psalm 79: 2-3. 15-16. 18-19 (4
2nd Reading: Heb 10: 5-10
Gospel: Lk 1: 39-45
St Fachanan, bishop is not celebrated this year
Dec 21 Mon: Week 4 of Advent
St Peter Canisius priest and doctor of the Church, memorial
1st Reading: Song 2: 8-14 or Zep 3: 14-18a
Response Psalm 32: 2-3. 11-12. 20-21
Gospel: Lk 1: 39-45
Dec 22 Tue: Week 4 of Advent
1st Reading: 1 Sm 1: 24-28
Response: 1 Sm 2: 1. 4-5. 6-7. 8abcd
Gospel: Lk 1: 46-56
Dec 23 Wed: Week 4 of Advent
St John of Kanty priest, memorial
1st Reading: Mal 3: 1-4. 23-24
Response Psalm 24: 4-5ab. 8-9. 10 and 14
Gospel: Lk 1: 57-66
Dec 24 Thu: Week 4 of Advent
1st Reading: 2 Sam 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16
Response Psalm 88: 2-3. 4-5. 27 and 29
Gospel: Lk 1: 67-79
Dec 25 Fri: THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD Solemnity.
Vigil
1st Reading: Is 62: 1-55
Response Psalm 88: 4-5. 16-17. 27. 29 (2a)
2nd Reading: Acts 13: 16-17. 22-2
Gospel: Mt 1: 1-25.
The Virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and they will call him Emmanuel.
Midnight:
1st Reading: Is 9: 1-7
Response Psalm 95: 1-2. 2-3. 11-12. 13
2nd Reading: Ti 2: 11-14
Gospel: Lk 2: 1-14.
I bring you news of great joy. This night a child is born for us, a son given to us.
Dawn
1st Reading: Is 62: 11-12
Response Psalm 96: 1. 6. 11-12
2nd Reading: Ti 3: 4-7
Gospel: Lk 2: 15-20.
The shepherds found Mary and Joseph and the baby: and glorified God.
Day
1st Reading: Is 52: 7-10
Response Psalm 97: 1. 2-3. 3-4. 5-6 (3c)
2nd Reading: Heb 1: 1-6
Gospel: Jn 1: 1-18
The Word was mode flesh, he lived among us, and we sow his glory
Dec 26 Sat: St Stephen, First martyr F
1st Reading: Acts 6: 8-10; 7: 54-59
Response Psalm 30: 3cd-4. 6 and 8ab. 16bc and 17
Gospel: Mt 10: 17-22
St Stephen, the first Christian martyr, was one of those in charge of the poor
and needy. He is outstanding for his forgiveness of his enemies. Patron of
deocons, stonemasons and bricklayers.
Dec 27 SUNDAY HOLY FAMILY of Jesus, Mary and Joseph F
1st Reading: 1 Sm 1: 20-22. 24-28 or Sir 3: 2-6. 12-14
Response Psalm 83
2nd Reading: 1 Jn 3: 1-2. 21-24
Gospel: Lk 2: 41-52
or
1st Reading: Eccles (Sir) 3:2-6, 12-14
Response Psalm 127
2nd Reading: Col 3: 12-21
Gospel: Lk 2: 41-52
The Holy Family is seen as the model for the human family, the religious community, and the Church itself. The celebration of the Incarnation has brought us to see God's closeness. In the Holy Family we see the ordinariness of the life of Jesus, the simple acceptance by Mary and Joseph of the marvels of God. In the daily life of family and community we can touch the divine, we can come close to God. But we have to learn to live centred on God, with respect and love for-each other.
Dec 28 Mon: Holy Innocents, mts F
1st Reading: 1 Jn 1: 5 – 2: 2
Response Psalm 123: 2-3. 4-5. 7b-8
Gospel: Mt 2: 13-18
The flight into Egypt and the massacre of the Holy Innocents make manifest the opposition of darkness to the light: "He came to his own home, and his own
people received him not." Christ's whole life was lived under the sign of
persecution. His own share it with him. Jesus' departure from Egypt recalls the
exodus and presents him as the definitive liberator of God's people.' (CCC, 530))
Dec 29 Tue: Christmas Octave: Day 5
Thomas Becket, bishop and martyr, memorial
1st Reading: 1 Jn 2: 3-11
Response Psalm 95: 1-2a. 2b-3. 5b-6
Gospel: Lk 2: 22-35
St Thomas a Becket, 1118-1170 ad, as Archbishop of Canterbury, came in conflict with King Henry II over Church rights. He was killed in his cathedral on this date.
Dec 30 Wed: Christmas Octave: Day 6
1st Reading: 1 Jn 2: 12-17
Response Psalm 95: 7-8a. 8b-9. 10
Gospel: Lk 2: 36-40
Dec 31 Thu: Christmas Octave: Day 7
St Sylvester I, pope, memorial
1st Reading: 1 Jn 2: 18-21
Response Psalm 95: 1-2. 11-12. 13
Gospel: Jn 1: 1-18
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The Popes Intentions for January 2010
General: That young people may learn to use modern means of social communication for their personal growth and to better prepare themselves to serve society.
Mission: That every believer in Christ may be conscious that unity among all Christians is a condition for more effective proclamation of the Gospel.
Jan 1 Fri: MARY, MOTHER OF GOD Solemnity
World Day of Peace,
Octave of Christmas.
1st Reading: Nm 6: 22-27
Response Psalm 66: 2-3. 5. 6. 8 (2a)
2nd Reading: Gal 4: 4-7
Gospel: Lk 2: 16-21
Mary, Mother of God. At the message of the angel, the Virgin Mary received the Word of God in her heart and in her body, and gave Life to the world. Hence she is acknowledged and honoured as being truly the Mother of God and Mother of the Redeemer (Lumen gentium, 52).
Jan 2 Sat: Before Epiphany
Basil the Great, bishop and doctor of the Church, memorial
Gregory Nazianzen,bishop and doctor of the Church, memorial
1st Reading: 1 Jn 2: 22-28
Response Psalm 97: 1. 2-3ab. 3cd-4
Gospel: Jn 1: 19-28
Jan 3 Sun: SECOND SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS
1st Reading: Eccles (Sir) 24:1-2, 8-12.
Response Psalm 147.
2nd Reading: Eph 1:3-6, 15-18.
Gospel: Jn 1:1-18
The Holy Name of Jesus and St Munchin, bishop are not celebrated this year
Jan 4 Mon: Before the Epiphany
1st Reading: 1 Jn 3: 3-7
Response Psalm 97
Gospel Jn 1:35-42
Jan 5 Tues: Before the Epiphany
St Charles of St Andrew, priest optional memorial
1st Reading: 1 Jn 3: 11-21
Response Psalm 99
Gospel Jn 1:43-51
Jan 6 Wed: EPIPHANY OF THE LORD Solemnity
1st Reading: Is 60: 1-6
Response Psalm 71: 1-2. 7-8. 10-11. 12-13
2nd Reading: Eph 3: 2-3a. 5-6
Gospel: Mt 2: 1-12
The Epiphany is the manifestation of Jesus as Messiah of Israel, Son of God and Saviour of the world. The great feast of Epiphany celebrates the adoration of Jesus by the wise men (magi) from the East, together with his baptism in the Jordan and the wedding feast at Cana in Galilee. In the magi, representatives of the neighbouring pagan religions, the Gospel sees the first-fruits of the nations, who welcome the good news of salvation through the Incarnation' (CCC, 528).
Jan 7 Thurs: After the Epiphany
St Raymond of Peñafort, priest optional memorial
1st Reading: 1 Jn 3: 22- 4: 6
Response Psalm 2: 7bc-8. 10-12a
Gospel: Mt 4: 12-17. 23-25
Jan 8 Fri: After the Epiphany
1st Reading: 1 Jn 4: 7-10
Response Psalm71
Gospel: Mk 6: 34-44
Jan 9 Sat: After the Epiphany
1st Reading: 1 Jn 4: 11-18
Response Psalm 71: 1-2. 10. 12-13
Gospel: Mk 6: 45-52
Jan 10 Sat: After the Epiphany
1st Reading: 1 Jn 4: 19 – 5: 4
Response Psalm 71: 1-2. 14 and 15bc. 17
Gospel: Lk 4: 14-22
Jan 11 SUN: BAPTISM OF THE LORD F
1st Reading: Is 40: 1-5 ,9-11.
Response Psalm103.
2nd Reading: Tit 2: 11-14, 3:4-7
Gospel: Lk 3: 15-16, 21-22.
Or
1st Reading: Is 42:1-4,6-7
Response Psalm 28.
2nd Reading: Acts 10:34-38
Gospel: Lk 3: 15-16, 21-22.
Jesus is anointed with the Spirit and his power. He is proclaimed Messiah. He now goes about doing good, working the signs that make him known as the Servant of God. He is the one who brings good news to the poor and tells of salvation. Through our baptism each one of us is ordered to the life of Christ - Priest, Prophet and King - and the Father looks on us with favour.
Jan 11 Mon: Week 1 in Ordinary Time
1st Reading 1 Sm 1: 1-8
Response Psalm 115: 12-13. 14-17. 18-19
Gospel Mk 1: 14-20
Jan 12 Tue: Week 1 in Ordinary Time
1st Reading 1 Sm 1: 9-20
Response 1 Sm 2: 1. 4-5. 6-7. 8
Gospel Mk 1: 21-28
Jan 13 Wed: Week 1 in Ordinary Time
St Hilary, bishop and doctor of the Church: Optional memorial
1st Reading 1 Sm 3: 1-10. 19-20
Response Psalm 39: 2 and 5. 7-8a. 8b-9. 10
Gospel Mk 1: 29-39
Jan 14 Thu: Week 1 in Ordinary Time
1st Reading 1 Sm 4: 1-11
Response Psalm 43: 10-11. 14-15. 24-25
Gospel Mk 1: 40-45
Jan 15 Fri: Week 1 in Ordinary Time
St Ita, virgin, optional memorial
1st Reading 1 Sm 8: 4-7. 10-22a
Response Psalm 88: 16-17. 18-19
Gospel Mk 2: 1-12
Jan 16 Sat: Week 1 in Ordinary Time
St Fursa, abbot and missionary, optional memorial
1st Reading 1 Sm 9: 1-4. 17-19; 10: 1
Response Psalm 20: 2-3. 4-5. 6-7
Gospel Mk 2: 13-17
Jan 17 SUN: SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
World Day of Migrants and Refugees
1st Reading: Is 62: 1-5
Response Psalm 95
2nd Reading: 1 Cor 12: 4-11
Gospel: Jn 2: 1-11
Pope Benedict XV established this observance as a response to the massive displacements and suffering caused by the First World War. Today, on the 95th World Day we remember the 35 million people who are refugees, living outside their home country or uprooted and displaced within their own country. We remember, too, the 250 million international migrants in the world today.
St Anthony, abbot is not celebrated this year.
Jan 18 Mon: Week 2 in Ordinary Time
1st Reading 1 Sm 15: 16-23
Response Psalm 49: 8-9. 16bc-17. 21, 23
Gospel Mk 2: 18-22
18-25 January: Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
During the 2010 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity we will reflect each day on chapter 24 of Luke's gospel, stopping at the questions that it asks: Jesus' questions to his disciples; the questions the apostles ask of Christ.
Each of these questions allows us to highlight a particular way of witnessing to the Risen One. Each of them invites us to think about our situation of church division and about how, concretely, we can remedy that. We are already witnesses and we need to become better witnesses. How?
by praising the One who gives us the gift of life and resurrection (Day 1)
by knowing how to share the story of our faith with others (Day 2)
by recognising that God is at work in our lives (Day 3)
by giving thanks for the faith we have received (Day 4)
by confessing Christ's victory over all suffering (Day 5)
by seeking to always be more faithful to the Word of God (Day 6)
by growing in faith, hope and love (Day 7)
by offering hospitality and knowing how to receive it when it is offered to us (Day 8)
Would our witness not be more faithful to the gospel of Christ in each of these eight aspects if we witnessed together?
Material for liturgy, which can be adapted for local use, is published jointly by the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and the Faith and Order Commission (see Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity on www.vatican.va and the World Council of Churches on www.oikoumene.org).
Jan 19 Tue: Week 2 in Ordinary Time
1st Reading 1 Sm 16: 1-13
Response Psalm 88: 20. 21-22. 27-28
Gospel Mk 2: 23-28
Jan 20 Wed: Week 2 in Ordinary Time
St Fabian, pope and martyr
St Sebastian, martyr. optional memorial
1st Reading 1 Sm 17: 32-51
Response Psalm 143: 1b. 2. 9-10
Gospel Mk 3: 1-6
Jan 21 Thu: Week 2 in Ordinary Time
St Agnes virgin and martyr, memorial
1st Reading 1 Sm 18: 6-9; 19: 1-7
Response Psalm 55: 2-3. 9-10a. 10b-11. 12-13
Gospel Mk 3: 7-12
Jan 22 Fri: Week 2 in Ordinary Time
St Vincent of Saragossa deacon and martyr, optional memorial
1st Reading 1 Sm 24: 3-21
Response Psalm 56
Gospel Mk 3: 13-19
Jan 23 Sat: Week 2 in Ordinary Time
1st Reading 2 Sm 1:1-4, 11-12, 17, 19, 23-27
Response Psalm 79
Gospel Mk 3: 20-21
Jan 24 SUN: THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
1st Reading: Neh 8: 2-4a. 5-6. 8-10
Response Psalm 18
Second Reading: 1 Cor 12: 12-30
Gospel: Lk 1: 1-4; 4: 14-21
St Francis de Sales, bishop and doctor of the Church, is not celebrated this year.
Jan 25 Mon: The Conversion of Paul, Apostle, feast
1st Reading Acts 22: 3-16 or Acts 9: 1-22
Response Psalm116: 1bc. 2
Gospel Mk 16: 15-18
Jan 26 Tue: Week 3 in Ordinary Time
Ss Timothy and Titus, bishops
1st Reading 2 Tm 1: 1-8 or Tit 1: 1-5
Response Psalm95: 1-2a. 2b-3. 7-8a. 10
Gospel Lk 10:1-9
Jan 27 Wed: Week 3 in Ordinary Time
Angela Merici virgin and religious, optional memorial
1st Reading 2 Sm 7: 4-17
Response Psalm 88: 4-5. 27-28. 29-30
Gospel Mk 4: 1-20
Jan 28 Wed: Week 3 in Ordinary Time
St Thomas Aquinas, priest and doctor of the Church, memorial
1st Reading 2 Sm17: 18-19, 24-29
Response Psalm131
Gospel Mk 4:21-25
Jan 29 Thurs: Week 3 in Ordinary Time
1st Reading 2 Sm11: 1-10, 13-17
Response Psalm 50
Gospel Mk 4:26-34
Jan 30 Sat: Week 3 in Ordinary Time
St Aidan, bishop, optional memorial
Bl Margaret Ball and Francis Taylor, martyrs, optional memorials
1st Reading 2 Sm12:1-7, 10-17,
Response Psalm 50
Gospel Mk 4:35-41
Jan 31 SUN: FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Catholic Schools Week
First Reading: Jer 1: 4-5. 17-19
Response Psalm 70
Second Reading: 1 Cor 12: 31 – 13: 13
Gospel: Lk 4: 21- 30
St John Bosco, priest is not celebrated this year.
The Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and the Faith and Order Commission of the World Council of Churches invited the Scottish churches to prepare the 2010 Week of Prayer to coincide with the centenary of the World Mission Conference held in Edinburgh in 1910. The theme chosen is 'You are witnesses of these things' (Lk 24:48), from Christ's final discourse before his ascension. |
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The Pope’s Intentions for February
General: For all scholars and intellectuals, that by means of sincere search for the truth they may arrive at an understanding of the one true God.
Mission: That the Church, aware of its own missionary identity, may strive to follow Christ faithfully and to proclaim his Gospel to all peoples.
Feb 1 Mon: St Brigid, Virgin, Secondary Patron of Ireland, Feast
1st Reading Job 31:16-20, 24-25, 31-32 or Eph 3:14-21
Response Psalm 106
Gospel Lk 6:32-38
St Brigid is renowned for her hospitality, almsgiving and care of the sick. She was born c. 454. When she was young her father wished to make a very suitable marriage for her but she insisted in consecrating her virginity to God. She received the veil and spiritual formation probably from St Mel and stayed for a period under his direction in Ardagh. Others followed her example and this led her to found a double monastery in Kildare with the assistance of Bishop Conleth. She died in 524 and her cult is widespread not only throughout Ireland but in several European lands.
Feb 2 Tues: THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD
1st Reading Mal 3: 1-4 or Heb 2:14-18
Response Psalm 23
Gospel Lk 2: 22-4
The Virgin Mother who carries Jesus to the temple so that he can be offered to the Father expresses very well the figure of the Church who continues to offer her sons and daughters to the heavenly Father, associating them with the one oblation of Christ, cause and model of all consecration in the Church.
Day for Consecrated Life
The first World Day was held in 1997. Pope John Paul" in his first message for the Day wrote:
The World Day for Consecrated life will be celebrated on the feast which commemorates the presentation which Mary and Joseph made of Jesus in the temple 'to present.him to the lord' (Lk 2:22).
This Gospel scene reveals the mystery of Jesus, the One consecrated by the Father, come into the world to carry out his will faithfully (d. Heb 10:5-7). Simeon points to Jesus as 'a light for revelation to the Gentiles' (Lk 2;32) and by a prophetic word foretells the supreme offering of Jesus to the Father and his final victory (Lk 2:32-35).
In this way the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple is an eloquent icon of the total offering of one's life for all those who are called to show forth in the Church and in the world, by means of the evangelical counsels 'the characteristic features of Jesus - the chaste, poor and obedient one' (VC 1).
Feb 3 Wed: Week 4 in Ordinary time
St Blaise, bishop and martyr, optional memorial
St Ansgar, bishop, optional memorial
1st Reading 2 Sm 24:2, 9-17
Response Psalm 31
Gospel Mk 6:1-6
Blessing of throats on the memorial of St Blaise
St Blaise, bishop of Sebaste in Armenia, is believed to have been martyred in the early fourth century. Very little is known about him. Tradition states that he was a physician before becoming a bishop. Since the eighth century he has been venerated as the patron of those who suffer from disease of the throat. He is said to have healed a boy who was choking. The blessing of St Blaise is a sign of our faith in God's protection and love for us and for the sick.
The candles to be used for the blessing of throats are blessed on the memorial of St Blaise (see The Veritas Book of Blessing Prayers, p. 190) or on the feast of the Presentation of the lord. If the blessing takes place within Mass, the blessing follows the homily and general intercessions (prayer of the faithful). Outside of Mass, the blessing is preceded by a brief celebration of the word of God. The scriptures readings suggested in the lectionary (1/: 943-944) may be used.
Using two crossed and unlighted candles, the minister touches the throat of each person, saying:
Through the intercession of St Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God deliver you from all ailments of the throat and from every other evil or from every disease of the throat and from every other illness): In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Feb 4 Thurs: Week 4 in Ordinary time
1st Reading 1 Kg 2:1-4, 10-12
Response 1Chr 29:10-12
Gospel Mk 6:7-13
Feb 5 Fri: Week 4 in Ordinary time
St Agatha, virgin, martyr, memorial
1st Reading Eccles (Sir), 47:2-11
Response Psalm 17
Gospel Mk 6:14-29
Feb 6 Sat: Week 4 in Ordinary time
St Paul Miki and Companions, martyrs, memorial
1st Reading 1 Kg 3: 4-13
Response Psalm Ps 118
Gospel Mk 6:30-34
Feb 7 SUN: FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
1st Reading: Is 6:1-8
RResponse Psalm137
2nd Reading: 1 Cor 15:1-11
Gospel: Lk 5:1-11
St Mel, bishop is not celebrated this year
Feb 8 Mon: Week 5 in Ordinary time
St Jerome Emiliani and
St Josephine Bakhita, virgin, optional memorials
1st Reading 1 Kgs 8: 1-7, 9-13
Response Psalm 131
Gospel Mk 6:53-56
Feb 9 Tues: Week 5 in Ordinary time
1st Reading 1 Kgs 8: 22-23, 27-30
Response Psalm 83
Gospel Mk 7:1-13
Feb 10 Wed: Week 5 in Ordinary time
St Scholastica, virgin, memorial
1st Reading 1 Kgs 10:1-10
Response Psalm 36
Gospel Mk 7:14-23
Feb 11 Thurs Week 5 in Ordinary time
Our Lady of Lourdes, optional memorial
St Gobnait, optional memorial
1st Reading 1 Kgs 11: 4-13
Response Psalm 105
Gospel Mk 7:24-30
11 February: 18th World day of the Sick
In 1992 Pope John Paul II instituted the World Day of the Sick to be held each year on the commemoration of Our lady of Lourdes.
'The concern that Christ showed for the bodily and spiritual welfare of those who are ill is continued by the Church in its ministry to the sick. This ministry is the common responsibility of all Christians, who should visit the sick, remember them in prayer, and celebrate the sacraments with them. The family and friends of the sick, doctors and others who care for them, and priests with pastoral responsibilities have a particular share in this ministry of comfort. Through words of encouragement and faith they can help the sick to unite themselves with the suffering of Christ for the good of God's people' (Pastoral Care of the Sick, 43)
Feb 12 Fri: Ordinary Time Week 5
1st Reading 1 Kgs 11: 29-31, 12:19
Response Psalm 80
Gospel Mk 7:131-37
Feb 13 Sat: Ordinary Week 5
1st Reading 1 Kgs 12: 26-32, 13:33-34
Response Psalm 105
Gospel Mk 8:1-10
Feb 14 SUN SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Day of Prayer for Temperance
1st Reading Jer 17:5-8
Response Psalm 1
2nd Reading 1 Cor 15:12, 16-20
Gospel Lk 6:17, 20-26
Feb 15 Mon: Week 6 in Ordinary time
1st Reading Jas 1:1-11
Response Psalm 118
Gospel Mk 8:11-13
Feb 16 Tues: Week 6 in Ordinary time
1st Reading Jas 1-11-18
Response Psalm 93
Gospel Mk 8:14-21
SEASON OF LENT
The annual Lenten season is the fitting time to climb the holy mountain of Easter.
The Lenten season has a double character, namely to prepare both catechumens and faithful to celebrate the paschal mystery. The catechumens, both with the rite of election and scrutinies, are prepared for the celebration of the sacraments of Christian initiation; the faithful, ever more attentive to the word of God and prayer, prepare themselves by penance for the renewal of their baptismal promises.
The faithful are to be encouraged to participate in an ever more intense and faithful way in the Lenten liturgy and in penitential celebrations. They are to be clearly reminded that both according to the law and tradition they should approach the sacrament of penance during this season so that with purified heart they may participate in the paschal mysteries. (Paschale solemnitatis, 6, 15, Ceremonial of Bishops, 249, 251
Feb 17 Wed : ASH WEDNESDAY (Day of Fast and Abstinence)
First Reading: Joel 2: 12-18
Response Psalm50
Second Reading: 2 Cor 5: 20 - 6:2
Gospel: Mt 6: 1-6. 16-18
Feb 18 Thurs: Thursday after Ash Wednesday
1st Reading Deut 30:15-20
Response Psalm 1
Gospel Lk 9:22-25
Feb 19 Fri: Friday after Ash Wednesday
1st Reading Is 58:1-9
Response Psalm 50
Gospel Mt 9:14-15
Feb 20 Sat: Saturday after Ash Wednesday
1st Reading Jas 5: 13-20
Response Psalm 140: 1-2. 3 and 8
Gospel Lk 5:27-32
Feb 21 SUN: FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT
First Reading: Dt 26: 4-10
Response Psalm90
Second Reading: Rom 10: 8-13
Gospel: Lk 4: 1-13
St Peter Damien, bishop and doctor of the Church is not celebrated this year.
Feb 22 Mon: Week 1 of Lent
The Chair of St Peter, Apostle, feast
1st Reading 1 Pt 5:1-4
Response Psalm 90
Gospel Mt 16:13-19
Feb 23 Tues: Week 1 of Lent
St Polycarp, bishop and martyr, memorial
1st Reading Is 55: 10-11
Response Psalm 33: 4-7.16-19
Gospel Mt 6: 7-15
Feb 24 Wed: Week 1 of Lent
1st Reading Jon 3: 1-10
Response Psalm 50
Gospel Lk 11: 29-32
Feb 25 Thurs: Week 1 of Lent
1st Reading Esth 4: 17
Response Psalm 137
Gospel Mt 7:7-12
Feb 26 Fri: Week 1 of Lent
1st Reading Ezek 18: 21-28
Response Psalm 129: 1-4. 5-8
Gospel Mt 5: 20-26
Feb 27 Sat: Week 1 of Lent
1st Reading Dt 26: 16-19
Response Psalm 118
Gospel Mt 5: 43-48
Feb 28: SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT
1st Reading: Gn 15: 5-12. 17-18
Response Psalm 26
2nd Reading: Phil 3: 17-4: 1
Gospel: Lk 9: 28-36
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The Popes intentions for March
General: That the world economy may be managed according to the principles of justice and equity, taking account of the real needs of peoples, especially the poorest.
Mission: That the churches in Africa may be signs and instruments of reconciliation and justice in every part of that continent.
Mar 1 Mon: Week 2 of Lent
St David, bishop, memorial
1st Reading Dan 9: 4b-10
Response Psalm 78
Gospel Lk 6: 36-38
Mar 2 Tuesday: Week 2 of Lent
1st Reading Is 1: 10. 16-20
Response Psalm 49
Gospel Mt 23: 1-12
Mar 3 Wed: Week 2 of Lent
1st Reading Jer 18: 18-20
Response Psalm 30
Gospel Mt 20: 17-28
Mar 4 Thurs: Week 2 of Lent
St Casimir, memorial
1st Reading Jer 17: 5-10
Response Psalm 1
Gospel Lk 16: 19-31
Mar 5 Fri: Week 2 of Lent
St Kieran, bishop, memorial
1st Reading Gen 37: 3-4, 12-13, 17-28
Response Psalm 104
Gospel Mt 21:33-43
Mar 6 Sat: Week 2 of Lent
1st Reading Mic 7: 14-15. 18-20
Response Psalm 102
Gospel Lk 15: 1-3. 11-32
Mar 7 SUN: THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT.
First Reading: Ex 3: 1-8a. 13-15
Response Psalm 102
Second Reading: 1 Cor 10: 1-6. 10-12
Gospel: Lk 13: 1-9
Ss Perpetua and Felicity, martyrs are not celebrated this year
March 8 Mon: Week 3 of Lent
St John of God, religious, memorial
1st Reading 2 Kgs 5: 1-15b
Response Psalm 41
Gospel Lk 4: 24-30.
March 9 Tues: Week 3 of Lent
St Frances of Rome, religious, memorial
1st Reading Dan 3: 25. 34-43
Response Psalm 24
Gospel Mt 18: 21-35
March 10 Wed: Week 3 of Lent
1st Reading Deut 4:1. 5-9
Response Psalm Ps 147
Gospel Mt 5: 17-19
March 11 Thurs: Week 3 of Lent
St Aengus, bishop and abbot, memorial
1st Reading Jer 7: 23-28
Response Psalm 94
Gospel Lk 11: 14-23
March 12 Fri: Week 3 of Lent.
1st Reading Hos 14: 2-10
Response Psalm 80
Gospel Mk 12: 28-34
Mar 13 Sat: Week 3 of Lent.
1st Reading Hos 5: 15-6: 6
Response Psalm 50: 3-4. 18-19. 20-21ab
Gospel Lk 18: 9-14
Mar 14 SUN: FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT. (Laetare Sunday)
1st Reading: Josh 5: 9a. 10-12
Response Psalm 33
2nd Reading: 2 Cor 5: 17-21
Gospel: Lk 15: 1-3. 11-32
The readings for this Sunday Year A may also be used.
Mar 15 Mon: Week 4 of Lent
1st Reading Is 65: 17-21
Response Psalm 29
Gospel Jn 4:43-54
Mar 16 Tues: Week 4 of Lent
1st Reading Ez 47: 1-9. 12
Response Psalm 45
Gospel Jn 5: 1-16.
Mar 17 Wed: ST PATRICK, bishop, Patron of Ireland
1st Reading: Am 7:12-15.
Response Psalm 138.
2nd Reading: 1Thess 2:2-8
Gospel: Lk 5: 1-11
or (these readings may be used in Ireland)
1st Reading: Eccles (Sir) 39:6-10
Response Psalm 115
2nd Reading: 2 Tim 4: 1-8
Gospel: Mt 13:24-32. )
St Patrick was born very probably in the early years of the fifth century in Britain. He was taken captive at tlie age of sixteen and brought to Ireland where he worked as a slave. His captivity had a very positive effect on his spiritual life. He escaped back home at the age of twenty-two. It was obvious to him that God was calling him to return to convert the Irish. He studied probably in France, returned to Ireland c. 457-61 and made a tremendous number of converts. He died in 491.
Mar 18 Thurs: Week 4 of Lent
St Cyril of Jerusalem, bishop and doctor of the Church, memorial
1st Reading Ex 32: 7-14
Response Psalm 105
Gospel Jn 5: 31-47
Mar 19 Fri: Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary, solemnity
1st Reading: 2 Sm 7: 4-5. 12-14. 16
Response Psalm 88
2nd Reading: Rom 4: 13. 16-18. 22
Gospel: Mt 1: 16. 18-21. 24 or Lk 2: 41-51
Mar 20 Sat: Week 4 of Lent
1st Reading Jer 11: 18-20
Response Psalm7
Gospel Jn 7: 40-52
Mar 21 SUN: FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT.
1st Reading: Is 43: 16-21
Response Psalm125
2nd Reading: Phil 3: 8-14
Gospel: Jn 8: 1-11
St Enda, abbot is not celebrated this year
Mar 22 Mon: Week 5 of Lent
1st Reading Dan 13: 1-9. 15-17. 19-30. 33-62 or 13: 41c-62
Response Psalm 22: 1-3a. 3b-4. 5. 6
Gospel Jn 8: 12-20
Mar 23 Tues: Week 5 of Lent
St Turibius of Mongrovejo, bishop, memorial
1st Reading Nm 21: 4-9
Response Psalm 101
Gospel Jn 8: 21-30
Mar 24 Wed: Week 5 of Lent
St Macartan, bishop, memorial
1st Reading Dn 3: 14-20. 24-25, 28
Response Dn 3: 52-56
Gospel Jn 8: 31-42
Mar 25 Thurs: ANNUNCIATION OF THE LORD Solemnity
First Reading: Is 7: 10-14; 8: 10
Response Psalm 39
2nd Reading: Heb 10: 4-10
Gospel: Lk 1: 26-38
Mar 26 Fri: Week 5 of Lent
1st Reading: Jer 20: 10-13
Response Psalm17
Gospel: Jn 10: 31-42
Mar 27 Sat: Week 5 of Lent
1st Reading: Ez 37: 21-28
Response Jer 31: 10. 11-13
Gospel: Jn 11: 45-56
Mar 28 SUN: PALM SUNDAY OF THE LORD'S PASSION
Procession Reading: Lk 19: 28-40.
Mass 1st Reading: Is 50: 4-7
Response Psalm 21
2nd Reading: Phil 2: 6-11
Gospel: Lk 22: 14 – 23: 56
Holy Week begins on this Sunday, which joins the foretelling of Christ's regal triumph and the proclamation of the Passion. The connection between both aspects of the paschal mystery should be shown and explained in the celebration and catechesis of this day. The commemoration of the entrance of the lord into Jerusalem is celebrated with a solemn procession which may take place only once, before the Mass which has the largest attendance, even if this should be the evening of Saturday or Sunday. In this procession the faithful carry palm or other branches. The priest and the ministers, also carrying branches, precede the people. The palms or branches are blessed so that they can be carried in the procession. The palms should be taken home, where they will serve as a reminder of the victory of Christ which they celebrated in the procession. Pastors should make every effort to ensure that this procession in honour of Christ the King be so prepared and celebrated that it is of great spiritual significance in the life of the faithful.
March 29 Mon of Holy Week
1st Reading: Is 42: 1-7
Response Psalm 26
Gospel: Jn 12: 1-11.
March 30 Tues of Holy Week
1st Reading: Is 49: 1-6
Response Psalm 70
Gospel: Jn 13: 21-33. 36-38
March 31 Wed of Holy Week
1st Reading: Is 50: 4-9
Response Psalm 68
Gospel: Mt 26: 14-25
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The Popes intentions for April
General: That every tendency to fundamentalism and extremism may be countered by constant respect, by tolerance and by dialogue among all believers.
Mission: That Christians persecuted for the sake of the Gospel may persevere, sustained by the Holy Spirit, in faithfully witnessing to the love of God for the entire human race
Apr 1 Holy Thurs Chrism Mass
First Reading: Is 61: 1-3. 6a. 8-9
Response Psalm:88
Second Reading: Rev 1: 5-8
Gospel: Lk 4: 16-21
EASTER TRIDUUM
The Fathers of the Church saw this celebration as a unitive commemoration: St Augustine spoke of 'the most holy triduum of the crucified, buried and risen Lord'. Over Friday, Saturday and Sunday we celebrate a single, indivisible mystery. The Easter Triduum begins with the evening Mass of the Lord's Supper, readies its high point in the Easter Vigil, and doses with evening prayer on Easter Sunday (GNLY, 18-19).
Apr 1 Holy Thurs : Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper:
First Reading: Ex 12: 1-8. 11-14
Response Psalm:115
Second Reading: 1Cor 11:23-26
Gospel: Jn 13: 1-15
Apr 2 Good Fri: Good Friday (Day of fast and abstinence)
Celebration of the Lord's Passion:
First Reading: Is 52: 13-53: 12
Response Psalm:30
Second Reading: Heb 4: 14-16; 5: 7-9
Gospel: Jn 18: 1-19: 42
Apr 3 Holy Sat: Easter Vigil
‘Let the Paschal fast be kept sacred. Let it be observed everywhere on Good
Friday and where possible, prolonged throughout Holy Saturday, as a way of coming to the joys of the Sunday of the resurrection with uplifted and welcoming heart' (Sacrosanctum concilium, 110)
April 5 Sun: EASTER SUNDAY
The Resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
In accord with ancient tradition this night is one of vigil for the lord. St Augustine called it the 'mother of oil vigils'. The Gospel of St Luke (12:35ff.1 reminds the faithful to have their lamps burning ready, awaiting their master's return, so that when he arrives he will find ttiem wide awake and will seat them at his table.
Vigil Readings: Gn 1: 1-2: 2 or 1: 1. 26-31 with Ps 103 or Ps 32
Gn 22: 1-18 or 22: 1-2. 9a. 10-13. 15-18 with Ps 15
Ex 14: 15 -- 15: 1 with Ps: Ex 15: 1-2. 3-4. 5-6. 17-18
Is 54: 5-14 with Ps 29:
Is 55: 1-11 with Ps: Is 12: 2-3. 4. 5-6
Bar 3: 9-15. 32-4: 4/ Ps 18
Ez 36: 16-17a. 18-28 with Ps 41or Ps 50
Vigil Mass
1st Reading: Rom 6: 3-11/
Response Psalm:117
Gospel: Lk 24: 1-12
Apr 4 EASTER SUNDAY.
First Reading: Acts 10: 34. 37-43
Response Psalm:117
Second Reading: Col 3: 1-4 or 1 Cor 5: 6-8
Gospel: Jn 20: 1-9
or
Optional Gospel : Day Mass : Lk 24:1-12
Optional Gospel : Evening Mass: Lk 24: 13-35
The celebration of the Eucharist is in the fullest sense the Easter Sacrament, that is to say, the commemoration of the sacrifice of the Cross and the presence of the Risen Christ, the completion of Christian initiation, and the foretaste of the eternal pasch. Great care must be taken that it is not celebrated in haste; all the rites and words must be given their full force. It is fitting that in the Communion of the Easter Vigil full expression be given to the symbolism of the Eucharist, namely, by consuming the Eucharist under the species of both bread and wine.
Apr 5 Mon: Easter Monday
1st Reading: Acts 2: 14. 22-33
Response Psalm: 15
Gospel: Mt 28: 8-15
St Vincent Ferrer, priest, is not celebrated this year
Apr 6 Tue: Easter Tuesday
1st Reading: Acts 2: 36-41
Response Psalm: 32
Gospel: Jn 20: 11-18
Apr 7 Wed: Easter Wednesday
St John Baptist de la Salle, priest, is not celebrated this year
1st Reading: Acts 3: 1-10
Response Psalm: 104
Gospel: Lk 24: 13-35
Apr 8 Thu: Easter Thursday
1st Reading: Acts 3: 11-26
Response Psalm 8
Gospel: Lk 24: 35-48
Apr 9 Fri: Easter Friday
1st Reading: Acts 4: 1-12
Response Psalm:117
Gospel: Jn 21: 1-14
Apr 10 Sat: Easter Saturday
1st Reading: Acts 4: 13-21
Response Psalm:117
Gospel: Mk 16: 9-15
Apr 11 SUN: SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER
1st Reading: Acts 5: 12-16
Response Psalm:117
2nd Reading:Rev 1: 9-13, 17-19
Gospel: Jn 20: 19-31
Apr 12 Mon: Week 2 of Easter
1st Reading: Acts 4: 23-31
Response Psalm 2
Gospel: Jn 3: 1-8
Apr 13 Tue: Week 2 of Easter
St Martin I, pope and martyr, optional memorial
1st Reading: Acts 4: 32-37
Response Psalm: Ps 92
Gospel: Jn 3: 7-15
Apr 14 Wed: Week 2 of Easter
1st Reading: Acts 5: 17-26
Response: Psalm 33
Gospel: Jn 3: 16-21
Apr 15 Thu: Week 2 of Easter
1st Reading: Acts 5: 27-33
Response Psalm: 33
Gospel: Jn 3: 31-36
Apr 16 Fri: Week 2 of Easter
St Bernadette Soubirous, optional memorial
1st Reading: Acts 5: 34-42
Response Psalm 26
Gospel: Jn 6: 1-15
Apr 17 Sat: Week 2 of Easter
1st Reading: Acts 6: 1-7
Response Psalm: Ps 32
Gospel: Jn 6: 16-21
Apr 18 SUN: THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER
1st Reading: Acts 5: 27-32. 40-41
Response Psalm:29
2nd Reading:Rv 5: 11-14
Gospel: Jn 21: 1-19
St Laserian, bishop is not celebrated this year
Apr 19 Mon: Week 3 of Easter
Pope Benedict XVI, The 4th Anniversary of his election
1st Reading: Acts 6: 8-15
Response Psalm: 118
Gospel: Jn 6: 22-29
Apr 20 Tue: Week 3 of Easter
1st Reading: Acts 7: 51-8: 1
Response Psalm:30
Gospel: Jn 6: 30-35
Apr 21 Wed: Week 3 of Easter
St Anselm, bishop, doctor of the Church, optional memorial
1st Reading: Acts 8:1-8
Response Psalm:65
Gospel: Jn 35-40
Apr 22 Thu: Week 3 of Easter
1st Reading: Acts 8: 26-40
Responsorial Psalm: Ps 65
Gospel: Jn 6: 44-51
Apr 23 Fri: Week 3 of Easter
Ss George, martyr, optional memorial
St Adalbert of Prague, bishop and martyr, optional memorial
1st Reading: Acts 9: 1-20
Response Psalm: 116
Gospel: Jn 6: 52-59
Apr 24 Sat: Week 3 of Easter
St Fidelis of Sigmaringen, priest and martyr, optional memorial
1st Reading: Acts 9: 31-42
Response Psalm: 115
Gospel: Jn 6: 60-69
This is the 4th Anniversary of the solemn inauguration in 2005 of Pope Benedict XVI as Supreme Pastor of the Church. His election took place on 19 April 2005. An intention for the Holy Father should be included in the Prayer of the Faithful at all Masses.
Apr 25 SUN: FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
Day for Prayer for Vocations
First Reading: Acts 13: 14. 43-52
Response Psalm: 99
Second Reading:Rv 7: 9. 14b-17
Gospel: Jn 10: 27-30
This is Good Shepherd Sunday', a day of special prayer for vocations to the work of service in the Church. There is the enduring command of Christ to his Church to go out and preach to all people. There is need for people of faith to respond to that command, people who are prepared to dedicate their lives to this work for the sake of the Gospel.
Apr 26 Mon: Week 4 of Easter
1st Reading: Acts 11: 1-18
Response Psalm: 41
Gospel: Jn 10: 1-10
Apr 27 Tue: Week 4 of Easter
St Asicus, bishop, optional memorial
1st Reading: Acts 11: 19-26
Response Psalm: Ps 86
Gospel: Jn 10: 22-30.
Apr 28 Wed: Week 4 of Easter
St Peter Chanel, priest and martyr, optional Memorial
St Louis Mary de Montfort, priest, optional Memorial
1st Reading: Acts 12: 24-13: 5
Response Psalm: 66
Gospel: Jn 12: 44-50
April 29 Tuesday: St Catherine of Siena,
virgin and doctor of the church, Patron of Europe, feast
1st Reading 1 Jn 1:5-2:2
Response Psalm 102
Gospel Mt 11:25-30
Apr 30 Fri: Week 4 of Easter
St Pius V, pope, optional memorial
1st Reading: Acts13: 26-33
Response Psalm: 2
Gospel:Acts Jn 14: 1-6
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Church in Ireland 
