University College Cork
Sun 17 Nov 2024
starting at 9:30am
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I hope that whatever you are seeking you may find some steps here that will lead you to know the God of Love in your life. You are welcome to walk with us on our social media channels, too.
Bishop Fintan Gavin
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Bishop Fintan with some primary school teachers who attended the gatheringRecently Bishop Fintan invited primary school teachers throughout the Diocese to a Day of Reflection to support and nourish their own personal faith lives. In response, teachers gathered on Saturday 30th November in Mardyke House, Cork.
The day was led by Fr Chris O’Donnell, a priest of Limerick Diocese, who is a former primary school teacher. He worked for many years in youth ministry and participated in the final stages of the development of the Grow in Love Programme. The peaceful and prayerful surroundings of Mardyke House contributed to a wonderful day for all involved.
Fr Seamus was ordained for ministry in the Diocese of Kerry.
He has also served for many years on the staff of the Cork Regional Marriage Tribunal and also regularly celebrated Mass at the Poor Clares Convent in College Road, Cork.
The funeral arrangements for the late Fr Seamus McKenna are available
May he now rest in the peace of the Lord.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.
The late Fr Seamus McKenna
Bishop Fintan with members of the school's Meitheal Team
He was warmly welcomed by Principal Ms. Adele Flynn, Deputy Principal Mr. Peter Hyde, members of the Student Council & Meitheal Team and members of staff. Local clergy were also present to greet the Bishop, including Msgr. Aidan O’Driscoll, Fr. James McSweeney & Fr. Michael O’Connell MSC. Mr. Willie Walsh represented the Board of Management of the College.
During his visit, Bishop Fintan was guided on a tour of the school's facilities by the Meitheal Team, where he had the opportunity to meet with several class groups and their teachers.
The school, located on the Cope Foundation campus in Montenotte, Cork, provides a supportive learning environment for students aged 12 to 18, and the visit was a special occasion for the entire school community. On his arrival, Bishop Fintan was welcomed by the school’s principal, Mr. Don Golden, along with members of the student council, staff, and parents.
Bishop Fintan was invited to share in a Prayer Liturgy where the students shone. The liturgy was accompanied by instrumental music with song and sign language, guided by music teacher Marita Murray. Following Bishop Fintan’s final blessing for the whole school community joined together in singing ‘This Little Light of Mine’.
Students then engaged with Bishop Fintan in a Q&A session in which they asked him about his role and his daily life. When asked by a student, Bishop Fintan was quick to say that like everyone else he will have to wait and see what Santa will bring this Christmas.
Students greeted Bishop Fintan as he makes a pastoral visit to Scoil Bernadette
14 members of the Brazilian community confirmed at North CathedralOn Sunday, December 1st, the first Sunday of Advent, a significant and joyful occasion unfolded at the Cathedral of St. Mary and St. Anne in Cork when 14 members of the Brazilian Community received the Sacrament of Confirmation.
The Brazilian community, known for its vibrant and joyful spirit, has been an integral part of the life of the Diocese in Cork and Ross. The Cathedral Choir, led by John Casey, welcomed members of the Brazilian Community Choir who sang in Portuguese and English, adding to the joy of the occasion.
The ceremony, celebrated by Bishop Fintan Gavin, marked a pivotal moment in the faith journeys of these young adults who have been undergoing significant preparation for this sacrament for several months. The candidates affirmed their commitment to their faith and received the gifts of the Holy Spirit to guide them in their lives.
In his homily, Bishop Fintan Gavin reflected on the significance of the Advent season as a time of waiting and preparation for the coming of Christ. He encouraged the congregation to reflect on their own faith, especially as they witnessed the candidates take this important step in their faith journeys. “Where am I with my faith as an adult?” he asked, inviting all present to take some time in the busy days and weeks ahead to slow down, to pray and reflect on this question.
Bishop Fintan also thanked Fr. Bernard Morawski OFM Cap, the chaplain to the Brazilian community. He commended Fr. Bernard for his commitment to the community, especially noting his effort to learn Portuguese in order to better preach the Gospel.
Over 200 people, including priests, parish leadership teams and chaplaincies gathered for the third and final information meeting for the year of prayer, listening and discernment.
The three meetings have outlined the context for a time of prayer, listening and discerning in our Diocese as we discern where the Holy Spirit is calling us in each family of parishes to contribute to the future life of our faith communities.
The third meeting was held in Rochestown, Cork, and was addressed by Bishop Fintan Gavin and personnel from the Office for Mission and Ministry. A time of prayer was led by young adults.
An outline was given of the process for the year of prayer, listening, and discernment which will be rolled-out across the Diocese of Cork and Ross in the new year in each family of parishes.
Parishioners also attended a special time of guided prayer before the Blessed Sacrament in St. Columba’s Church, Douglas, before Sunday's meeting began.
Discussion at the diocesan meeting
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