Thirtieth Sunday of the year

My own father suffered from physical blindness for the last 15 years of his life. He was grateful for the care of my mother and other compassionate friends. My father thankfully did not suffer from spiritual blindness, a darkness where people are unable to see the hand of God in their lives.

As there are many forms of blindness, so too there are many areas where people can reach you and be compassionate. Who are the blind people we meet? How can we reach out and lead them to see the hand of God in their daily lives?

We are called to be observant and listen with compassion to the cry of the poor, whether spiritually or materially poor, sitting by the roadside of life. We must see them not as mere objects needing charity but as people with there own desires and rights. We often pretend that we know what suits the poor, the marginalised and the lonely better than they do. But we often forget to put ourselves in their position as blind, abandoned, lonely and desperate. We must always respect their dignity.

As mission month comes to a close, it is a reminder that we are all missionaries at home or abroad because of our baptism. We have to respect other persons and recognise their rights. We have to be attentive to their needs whether spiritual, human or material. I will always remember how the compassionate presence of my mother and friends gave courage and spiritual strength to my father. An important component in our missionary work at home is our personal presence among the people in need. The true witness of our personal presence can bring joy, peace and healing. Our compassionate presence can open the eyes of the suffering and the lonely to see the hand of God in their lives. We are called to become friends of life to our blind brothers and sisters waiting by the roadside of our daily lives.

Fr Tom Cahill, Intercom

Daily Readings

You can access the daily readings on the parish website:

SWINE FLU

If any one has flu-like symptoms they should stay at home, seek advice from their GP and not attend any church liturgies, Mass, Baptisms, Funerals… the obligation to attend Sunday Mass does not apply in cases of sickness.

Sign of Peace
For the next 6 months, the Sign of Peace has been suspended.

Communion
In light of the present circumstances parishioners are asked to receive Holy Communion in the hand. This includes primary school children. Please note for the next 6 months, Holy Communion will be under the form of bread only.

Receiving Holy Communion in your hand.
When approaching the Priest place your right hand under the left hand, making a hollow or throne for the Eucharist. When the Priest says, “The Body of Christ”, answer “Amen”. Step to the right or left of the Priest. Then take the Eucharist from the hollow of your hand with your left hand and place it in your mouth immediately.

Rachael’s Vineyard

Rachael’s Vineyard Ministries seeks to provide pastoral care for those hurting after an abortion experience, either your own or family members. Our next healing weekend will be in October. Further details from Marian

On 028 9079 9967 or E Mail (marianrvni@yahoo.co.uk) or visit the website www.rachaelsvineyards.org.

All queries are treated in the strictest confidence.

Cloona Oasis Centre

Autumn/Advent Christmas Programme 2009 A Time of Prayer, Reflection on next Sunday’s Gospel.

The art of reading Scripture through Lectio Divina, of reflecting on the word and relating it to our lives, helps to bring us to a deeper understanding of God, and to develop a more intimate relationship with Him. Beginning Tuesday 27th October in the Convent of Mercy. Morning session: 10.40am (after Mass) or Evening session: 7.00pm.

Yoga Class

Yoga class in Hannahstown Parish Centre every Tuesday at 8.00pm. Men and women of all levels and abilities are very welcome £5 per class. De-stress, relax and strengthen your body and mind. Bring a blanket and a yoga mat for safety and comfort.

For more information please contact Laraine on 9077 1098.

Catholic Singles

Catholic Singles is an organisation which helps single, widowed, separated and divorced Catholics of all ages (over 18 years) meet, either one to one or through

social events. All members receive a monthly bulletin, called Catholic Networking. For more information please tel. 0161 941 3498, visit the website www.catholicsingles.org.uk or email info@catholicsingles.org.uk

Parish Radio

If you are interested please phone
028 9061 8590 or 028 9022 0961.

There are two models available which are marked to receive broadcasts from St Oliver Plunkett Church.

Model 1 costs £25 including VAT and batteries (short range). Model 2 costs £60 and is mains powered – no batteries required. This has a longer range and provides better quality which is more suitable for areas where there are electrical power lines nearby.

Restore Practical Counselling

“Waiting by the Well: spiritual refreshment for busy people” a residential retreat with Tony Horsfall from Tuesday 10th – Thursday 12th November in Drumalis Retreat House.

“Pilgrims Making Progress”, a quiet day with Tony Horsfall on Saturday 14th November 10am – 4pm in Drumalis Retreat House.

For more information contact the Hopelink Centre, 31 Carlisle Circus, Belfast 9027 8191.

Cursillo Weekend in Benburb Priory

Mass Times