Our joint bible study this year, led by Rev. Chris Lyon & Fr Ed, reflected on the Emmaus gospel story. All who came found the evening enlightening and inspiring. Refreshments were provided, and the flame of Christian unity kept alight!

Many thanks to all who worked for this event: especially Cliodhna Dempsey from our own community who organised the Tombola, which raised over €650 towards our Lenten projects. Thanks to all who supported the evening by attending and by buying tombola tickets.

Preparation for First Holy Communions continues each Sunday at 10am in SS Peter & Paul, Hollerich. These meetings are vitally important for preparing children to receive the Body and Blood of the Lord in the sacrament of the Eucharist. They are also an opportunity for all who are associated with the preparation sessions to deepen their own faith and understanding. Please remember all concerned in your prayers.

Confirmation Preparation classes commence on Wednesday 16 January for all those enrolled. Classes take place at 7.30pm in 34 rue des Capucins (at the top of the rue des Capucins, where it joins rue des Bains… ring the bottom bell). Please pray for all our candidates who are preparing for this important sacrament, and for the catechists and parents who are assisting.

7pm Mass in St Alphonse, 2 February, is being offered for Dorothy and James Harcaric.

11am Mass at SS Peter & Paul, Hollerich 3 February is being offered for the repose of the soul of Ann Ryan, the mother of Alan Ryan of our community. Please pray for her, and for the family.

We also remember this week Jennifer Woo who is sick and Mary Eivers, whose anniversary occurs around this time. We give thanks to God for the lives of those we have loved and lost, and commend them to his mercy.

It is a wonderfully rich part of our Catholic tradition that we keep in mind before the Lord those who have gone before us: those who were part of our life, those who handed the faith on to us, those who showed us kindness, those who did so much good during their life: indeed, all the faithful departed. The Communion of Saints means that we are one community, united in the Risen Lord.

May the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen