There was a fine attendance for Mass on Ash Wednesday as we started the Season of Lent. This weekend the gospel reading is ordinarily the account of the temptations of Jesus in the desert. The gospel writer, Mark does things a little differently by simply stating that Jesus was driven into the desert by the Sprit. Also, we have the opening words of Jesus. These first words are crucial. The moment someone speaks or introduces oneself, we get a good idea of their character and their intentions. Jesus does not do any introductions or pleasantries, he simply announces the task. It is like saying that this is what I am about. The agenda is simple i.e. repent/convert/turn your heart to the Father and let us get on with it.
This is also the journey for Lent. It is a time to do something to change our heart. It is time to act. This has always been the way and there is a traditional wisdom in taking on something or ‘giving something up.’ There must be some reason why things are the way that they are. This has not gone out of fashion. It is not necessarily a time for a long discussion but a time for action.
Though the faith landscape is changing and the sacredness of Lent may be lost on many, these weeks are a time to prepare for Holy Week and Easter. We will get there but we use these days and weeks well to pray, to fast and to give alms.
Fr. Michael
Family of Parishes of Ballinlough, Blackrock, Blackrock Road and Mahon
Eilis Casey from the Office of Mission and Ministry in the Diocese at Masses in Blackrock next weekend 24th & 25th February. .
Trocaire Boxes are available in the church from this weekend. Please take one to your home and keep it prominent there during the coming weeks of Lent.
Finding hope in a hopeless world – Lent 2024: This is a seven-week programme for Parish groups or individuals which will be available on the Diocesan website (www.corkandross.org) from Ash Wednesday (February 14th). This programme explores how we can still be people of faith and hope in today’s world. It includes a series of reflections, Scripture readings and prayers, and a guide on how to use this resource in your Parish/Family of Parishes.
Prayer for the Formation of a Parish Council
Heavenly Father, we come before you with grateful hearts as we embark on the journey of forming our parish Council. We seek your guidance, wisdom, and grace to build a vibrant parish council that reflects the love and teachings of your Son, Jesus Christ.
Lord, bless our efforts and help us to recognize the unique gifts and talents you have bestowed upon each of us. May we be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit as we discern the needs of our community and strive to fulfill your mission here on Earth.
We entrust the formation of our parish council to the intercession of Mary, our Mother, who stood by your Son in moments of joy and sorrow. May she guide us in imitating her example of faith, humility, and loving service.
We offer this prayer in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Trócaire’s Lenten Campaign 2024
The Diocese of Cork and Ross together with Trócaire will host an evening to reflect on Trócaire’s Lenten Campaign for 2024. This event will take place in the S.M.A. Parish Centre, Wilton, Cork on Wednesday 21st February 2024 commencing at 7.30pm. This year’s campaign will explore the issues of water justice and climate change. The evening will also have a moment of prayer and reflection. Salome Mumba from Trócaire’s Malawi Office will address the gathering and share Trócaire’s work in the region. Bishop Fintan will share some of this experiences of his trip to Malawi in November and looks forward to meeting as many people as possible at this event.