St. Michael's Parish 
Praying for Peace
We have crossed the threshold into 2026, a time of hope and new beginnings. On last Thursday, New Year’s Day, we celebrated World Day of Peace. A few years ago, we would have done this somewhat ‘in passing’ as we didn’t get any sense that our world was changing and that old alliances that ensured peace remained secure. At the start of 2026, we are in a very uncertain world where the spectre of war in Europe is more real and our worldview is increasingly uncertain.
Now our prayer for peace is more urgent, real and tangible. Now we look at the Infant Jesus in the Crib as our ‘Prince of Peace’. That seemed to be an outdated title until recently but much has changed. The Birth of Christ is our hope. That has not changed. The ‘Emmanuel’ as ‘God-with-us’ remains true. In a sense there is a constancy in our faith that’s reassuring in a rapidly changing world.
This weekend, we continue our prayer in front of the Crib. We continue to pray for peace in our world. We ask the Newborn Infant Jesus to be with us, strengthen us, give us courage and be at our side for 2026. – Fr. Michael
Thank You – for your generosity in the Christmas Dues and Christmas Offertory Collection. It’s so encouraging to realise the generosity of people throughout the year but especially over Christmas. Go raibh maith agat.
Christmas Dues Envelopes – remain available in the church. Contributions can also be given to the ‘Priests Collection’ via the Donate button on the parish website.
Tuesday 6th January – Feast of the Epiphany – Mass @ 9.30am
Do This in Memory Mass for First Holy Communion children and their families on Saturday 17th January @ 6pm.
First Holy Communions 2026
Sat. 2nd May Gaelscoil Mhachan (in Holy Cross)
Sat. 9th May Beaumont BNS
Sat. 16th May Beaumont GNS
Sat. 16th May Ballintemple NS (in Holy Cross)
Sat. 23rd May Scoil Ursula & St. Michael’s NS
Sat. 23rd May Scoil na Croise Naofa (in Holy Cross)
Sun. 24th May Gathering of First Holy Communion Children and Families
Fr. Michael
085 8735905