Trocaire Lent Appeal

Wednesday of this week (February 22nd) marks the beginning of Lent. Lent is the 40-day period modelled after Our Lord’s 40 days in the desert. After the example of Jesus, we are encouraged to commit ourselves to a time of prayer, fasting and almsgiving.

Lent is a time of preparation in two different senses. In the first it is a

preparation for celebrating the Lord’s resurrection on Easter Day. In the

second it is a preparation for our entry into our eternal home in heaven. Lent

is another opportunity to grow more into the likeness of Christ.

In the few days between now and Ash Wednesday we have an opportunity to

reflect on what we can do this Lent. A few points worth considering –

Prayer: Can I make a commitment to daily Mass? If not can, I commit to

dedicating some time every day to prayer?

Fasting: As well as reflecting on the usual sweets and alcohol, perhaps I can

reduce the amount of time I spend on my mobile phone or watching TV.

Almsgiving: The Trocaire boxes are available at the church porches.

Hopefully when Easter day arrives we can truly celebrate the Resurrection.

MASS TIMES FOR ASH WEDNESDAY

St Columb’s Church 7:15am*, 10:00am & 7:30pm

Church of Immaculate Conception 9:15am, 6:00pm

St Mary’s Oratory 11:00am

St Oliver Plunkett’s Church 9:15am, 7:00pm

*extra mass at 7:15am weekdays during Lent in St Columb’s Church