September Liturgical & Social Awareness Calendar 2024

Welcome to the beginning of the School Year 2024/2025

Prayer for the New Academic Year

May God bless each of us

on our journey through this new academic year.

May He be our eyes

that we can see clearly,

Our ears that we may hear clearly,

Our voice that we may speak clearly

And our Hearts

that we may love dearly.

Amen

Waterford and Lismore have developed a very useful resource pack updated for 24/25 and filled with great ideas, games, blessings and posters for the new Academic Year. Just click the picture to the left to download.

Liturgical & Social Justice Calendars

September 2024

Overview of Liturgical Calendar for September 2024 (click on names below to access further information on Saints listed below}
Ordinary Time
	1	Sunday		22ⁿᵈ Sunday in Ordinary Time
	2 3 4	Monday Tuesday Wednesday		Monday in the 22ⁿᵈ Week in Ordinary Time
			M	Saint Gregory the Great, pope and doctor of the Church

	3	Sunday		Wednesday in the 22ⁿᵈ Week in Ordinary Time
	4 5 6	Monday Thursday Friday	m	Saint Mac Nissi, bishop
				Thursday in the 22ⁿᵈ Week in Ordinary Time
				Friday in the 22ⁿᵈ Week in Ordinary Time
	7	Saturday
	6	Wednesday		Saturday in the 22ⁿᵈ Week in Ordinary Time
	7	Thursday	m	The Blessed Virgin Mary on Saturday
	8	Sunday		23ʳᵈ Sunday in Ordinary Time
	9	Monday	M	Saint Ciaran of Clonmacnoise, abbot
	10	Tuesday
	11	Monday		Tuesday in the 23ʳᵈ Week in Ordinary Time
	12 11 12	Tuesday Wednesday Thursday	m	Saint Peter Claver, priest
				Wednesday in the 23ʳᵈ Week in Ordinary Time

				Thursday in the 23ʳᵈ Week in Ordinary Time
	13	Wednesday	m	Saint Ailbe, bishop
	14	Thursday	m	The Most Holy Name of Mary
	13	Friday	M	Saint John Chrysostom, bishop and doctor of the Church
	14	Saturday	F	The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
	15	Sunday		24ᵗʰ Sunday in Ordinary Time
	16	Monday	M	Saint Cornelius, pope, and Saint Cyprian, bishop, martyrs
	17	Tuesday
				Tuesday in the 24ᵗʰ Week in Ordinary Time
			m	Saint Hildegard of Bingen, virgin and doctor of the Church
	20	Wednesday	m	Saint Robert Bellarmine, bishop and doctor of the Church
	18	Wednesday		Wednesday in the 24ᵗʰ Week in Ordinary Time
	19	Thursday
	23	Saturday		Thursday in the 24ᵗʰ Week in Ordinary Time
	24	Sunday	m	Saint Januarius, bishop and martyr
	20 21 22	Friday Saturday Sunday	M	Saint Andrew Kim Taegŏn, priest, Saint Paul Chŏng Hasang and companions, martyrs
			F	Saint Matthew, apostle and evangelist
				25ᵗʰ Sunday in Ordinary Time
	23 24 25	Monday Tuesday Wednesday	M	Saint Pius of Pietrelcina, priest
				Tuesday in the 25ᵗʰ Week in Ordinary Time

	27	Wednesday		Wednesday in the 25ᵗʰ Week in Ordinary Time
	28 26	Thursday Thursday	m	Saint Finbarr, bishop

				Thursday in the 25ᵗʰ Week in Ordinary Time
			m	Saint Cosmas and Saint Damian, martyrs
	27	Friday	M	Saint Vincent de Paul, priest
	28	Saturday

September Global Social Justice & Awareness Days for September 2024

International Day of Charity (A/RES/67/105) 05 Sep

International Day of Police Cooperation (A/RES/77/241) 07 Sep

World Duchenne Awareness Day (A/RES/78/12) 07 Sep

International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies (A/RES/74/212) 07 Sep

International Literacy Day [UNESCO] (UNESCO 14 C/Resolution 1.441) 08 Sep

International Day to Protect Education from Attack (A/RES/74/275) 09 Sep

United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation (A/RES/58/220) 12 Sep

International Day of Democracy (A/RES/62/7) 15 Sep

International Day of Science, Technology and Innovation for the South 16 Sep

International Day for Interventional Cardiology (A/RES/76/302) 16 Sep

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer (A/RES/49/114) 16 Sep

World Patient Safety Day [WHO] 17 Sep

International Equal Pay Day (A/RES/74/142) 18 Sep

World Cleanup Day (A/RES/78/122) 20 Sep

International Day of Peace (A/RES/36/67) 21 Sep

International Day of Sign Languages (A/RES/72/161) 23 Sep

World Maritime Day 26 Sep

International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons 26 Sep

World Tourism Day 27 Sep

International Day for Universal Access to Information (A/RES/74/5) 28 Sep

International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (A/RES/74/209) 29 Sep

International Translation Day (A/RES/71/288) 30 Sep

Pope Francis’s Prayer Intentions for September 2024

For the cry of the earth

In a video message accompanying his prayer intention for September, Pope Francis prays that “each of us might listen with our hearts to the cry of the earth and of the victims of environmental disasters and climate change, making a personal commitment to care for the world we inhabit.”

In his message the Holy Father notes that it is the poor who suffer most from these disasters, pointing especially to those forced to leave their homes due to floods, heat waves, or drought. Our response, he continues, must be comprehensive, involving not only ecological but also “social, economic, and political” action.

“We must commit ourselves to the fight against poverty and the protection of nature, changing our personal and community habits.”

“We must commit ourselves to the fight against poverty”, the Pope says, and to “the protection of nature” by making both personal and communal changes”.

Pope Francis’ prayer during the month of September – when the Church observes the “Season of Creation” – is “that each of us might listen with our hearts to the cry of the earth and of the victims of environmental disasters and climate change, making a personal commitment to care for the world we inhabit”.

In The Pope Video, produced by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, Pope Francis encourages us to actively get involved in the fight against this global crisis, by adopting ecological as well as economic, social and political responses. To view the video click on the picture or click HERE

The Season of Creation has a special significance for the Catholic Church, particularly since Pope Francis established 1 September as an annual World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. The Season of Creation is marked throughout the Christian world from 1 September to 4 October (Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi) and celebrates the joy of creation as well as encouraging awareness-raising initiatives to protect the natural environment.To see the launch of the Season of Creation just click on the picture to view the 6 minute video on this ecumenical celebration.

“Future generations will never forgive us if we miss the opportunity to protect our common home. We have inherited a garden; we must not leave a desert for our children.” Joint statement from Pope Francis, the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Archbishop Justin Welby of Canterbury.

Theme: “To Hope and Act with Creation”

This year’s theme is “To Hope and Act with Creation”. We hope that the following resources will help you and your parish community to celebrate the Season of Creation 2024. These resources are compiled by the Laudato Si’ Working Group of the Irish Bishop’s Conference & Trócaire. You can find further resources on the international Season of Creation website: www.seasonofcreation.org To download the Celebration Guide just click on the image.

Sunday Liturgy Notes for Season of Creation 2024:This resource includes homily notes for each Sunday of the season, prayers of the faithful, music suggestions, reflections and mass parts which highlight the call “To Hope and Act with Creation”
Season of Creation 2024 Prayer(from org/ )
Leaflet on BiodiversityA colourful resource with many practical tips and reflections on how to promote Biodiversity this Season of Creation. This is an A5 Leaflet from the JPIC committee in the Diocese of Kerry and the Laudato Si’ Working Group. A version for printing locally is also available here

Nurturing your Family Faith in Nature as Gaelige: This resource from Trócaire is ideal for a children’s group, youth group or any family or community setting where people can explore their relationship with God’s Creation through reflection and activities.
Rubbish Graveyard: a resource which helps to show people just how long it takes for items to biodegrade. You might create a space in your parish to display it. This is a helpful activity for children’s liturgy or youth group. With thanks to An Tairseach Ecology Centre.
Blessing of Family Pets around the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi:On the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi (October 4^th) parishes might like to invite people to bring their pets for a special blessing. This resource will help support this activity. “Praise be to you my Lord, with all your creatures.” (Canticle of Creation).
Ecological Rosary – LSM:Slides to accompany an Ecological Rosary from the Laudato Si’ Movement.
Creation Walk Moments:adapted from the booklet by Father Brian Grogan SJ, Creation Walk: The Amazing Story of a Small Blue Planet. You might use this resource in your parish community by setting up ‘moments’ around the church, or around your parish, to convey the different stages of the story of our Universe. This resource will provide people with an opportunity to experience the wonder and awe of God’s creation and to become familiar with the story of our Universe. Did you know that there is now a beautiful Creation Walk at Knock Shrine? You might consider bringing your parish group to visit it. You can read about it here.
Tree Planting Resource: Engage your parish or diocese in Tree Planting initiatives this year. Thanks to ‘Easy Treesie’ we have all the tips you need and prayers for a tree planting service.
Video Reflection: The Season of Creation Prayer 2024: This video reflection can be used as part of liturgies, parish meetings during the Season or linked to your parish website and social media pages. With thanks to Vivek da Silva, Laudato Si’ Working Group.
Video Reflection: Psalm 19

Other Useful Resources:

A River Ritual Let us Join Together for the Season of Creation:This is a resource for a ritual to be celebrated by a river or stream. This resource was created for the 2023 Season of Creation, however it can be adapted for use at any time. Did you know that every Irish diocese has a river or sea access point? It seems appropriate to offer a ritual prayer that we could celebrate near water. We hope that this opportunity to gather out of doors in “the cathedral of nature” will be a support and inspiration for all involved.
Brother River Meditation:A three-minute reflection of nature sounds and visuals. This could be used at the start of a liturgy or a meeting to help people reflect
Earth Day Prayer Service:Earth Day is celebrated on 22 April each year. This beautiful prayer service could be adapted for use at any time of the year, particularly during the Season of Creation. With thanks to the Care for Creation team in Balally Parish, Dublin.

These resources have been compiled by the Laudato Si’ Working Group of the Irish Bishops’ Conference

The Letter – Laudato Si Film

In 2015, Pope Francis wrote Laudato Si’ (The Letter); an encyclical letter about the environmental crisis to every single person in the world. A few years later, four voices that have gone unheard in global conversations have been invited to an unprecedented dialogue with the Pope. Hailing from Senegal, the Amazon, India, and Hawai’i, they bring perspective and solutions from the poor, the indigenous, the youth, and wildlife into a conversation with Pope Francis himself. This documentary follows their journey to Rome and the extraordinary experiences that took place there, and is packed with powerfully moving personal stories alongside the latest information about the planetary crisis and the toll it’s taking on nature and people. Full film here. More Season of Creation resources within the theme of art and film can be sourced via Faitharts website http://www.faitharts.ie/creation.html

Waterford & Lismore have beautiful resources on the Season of Creation if you click HERE The pack includes beautiful posters to display within the school, as well as exercises and good ideas for the season.

A beautiful booklet of images, prayers, resources please click on the image below:

September 2^nd

St Gregory the Great, Pope & Doctor of the Church

St Gregory the Great, Pope – Feast Day – September 2 2024
Date of Birth	540 AD
Place of Birth	Rome, Italy
Profession	Pope of the Catholic Church
Place of Work	Rome, Italy
Date of Death	March 12 604 (aged 64)
Place of Death	Rome, Italy
Feast Day	September 3
Canonization	Precongregation
Patron Saint of	1. Musicians 2. Singers 3. Students 4. Teachers

Gregory’s moral theology shaped medieval spirituality and in his writings offered a practical wisdom for the Christians of his day. He was a reluctant Pope preferring to remain as monk. It is believed that he may have been responsible for Gregorian Chant but this is not confirmed. He died in 604 and was immediately made a saint. He is the patron saint of Musicians.

For more information check out: HERE
Check out this 4 minute video which is concise and provides a very good overview of this incredible saint HERE:

September 4^thSt Mac Nissi

Oengus Mac Nissi took his name from his mother Cnes or Ness. It is claimed that Patrick baptised him and taught him the psalms. He seems to be one of the early converts. He chose the district of Connor for his hermitage, but later became bishop of his clan. He died early in the sixth century. Along with St Malachy, St MacNissi is patron of the Catholic diocese of Down and Connor. St MacNissi’s College was opened as a residential college at Garron Tower (see image) on the north-east Antrim coast in the 1950s and remained a prominent second level college in the diocese until 2010, when it amalgamated with two other Antrim schools to become St Killian’s College.

For further information check out HERE

September 5th The International Day of Charity

Lá Idirnáisiúnta Tiomanta don Charthanacht

“Charity can alleviate the worst effects of humanitarian crises, supplement public services in health care, education, housing and child protection.”

The General Assembly of the United Nations designated the 5th of September, the anniversary of the death of Mother Teresa, as the International Day of Charity.

It serves as a reminder to individuals and organizations alike to engage in acts of kindness, compassion, and giving back to society. The International Day of Charity encourages people to contribute to making the world a better place by supporting various charitable causes.

Originally a Hungarian civil society initiative to commemorate Mother Teresa’s death, International Day of Charity on September 5 took off worldwide in 2012 when the UN declared it an international holiday. Besides honouring Mother Teresa’s tireless work to help others overcome poverty and suffering for which she received a Noble Peace Prize in 1979. The holiday provides a platform for charitable opportunities to take place. Overall, this day reminds us that simple acts of charity can alleviate the worst effects of humanitarian crises and create more inclusive and resilient societies. Use this day with your students to explore the idea of volunteering and why it is a valuable way of contributing to their community. “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” ― Mother Teresa

Source: https://nationaltoday.com/international-day-charity/

Some more resources and ideas…..

More information on how this day originated can be found HERE
Acceptance speech by St Teresa on the occasion of her acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize HERE. (Video is 19 minutes long)

Mother Teresa would be a wonderful Person of Commitment for our 2^nd See Powerpoint Presentation

Mary’s Meals run a wonderful programme for schools that would encourage our young people to support other young people who need their support. The provide a free school’s programme which can be sourced HERE, the pack contains:

A teacher/ youth leader guide, with six lesson plans
Complementary resource containing excerpts from the bestselling book The Shed That Fed A Million Children
Certificate to present to those who complete the programme.

Mary’s Meals would be delighted to visit your school and chat with your

students about the wonderful work they do.

“EVERYONE CAN DO SOMETHING”

(Mother Teresa)

Here are 10 ideas for random acts of kindness that you can do for the benefit of those around you.

Offer to help a neighbour with chores or errands.
Pay for someone’s meal or coffee.
Leave a kind note for someone to find.
Volunteer at a local charity, homeless shelter, animal shelter, or other nonprofit organization.
Donate items to a shelter or food bank.
Offer to give someone a ride or help with transportation.
Listen and offer support to someone who needs it.
Compliment a stranger and make them smile.
Hold the door open for someone or offer assistance when their hands are full.
Smile today at everyone you meet.

Your gesture doesn’t have to be big or elaborate. Sometimes, the simplest acts of kindness can have the greatest impact.

Donaldson discovered this principle when he had the opportunity to interview Mother Teresa — an interview that propelled him to start Convoy of Hope.

When the Nobel Peace Prize-winning nun asked Donaldson what he was doing to help the poor, he honestly replied he really wasn’t doing anything.

“Everyone can do something,” Mother Teresa told the young journalist.

Take another look at the list above and identify a “something” you can do. It won’t take long at all for an opportunity to present itself, and the growth potential of that one act can create enormous benefits for you and others.

For more information on the Convoy of Hope and how one small gesture created an estabishlished support system for those in need check out https://convoyofhope.org/articles/international-day-of-charity/

September 8^th Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Saolú na Maighdine Muire

On Our Lady’s birthday the Church celebrates the first dawning of redemption with the appearance in the world of the Saviour’s mother, Mary. The Blessed Virgin occupies a unique place in the history of salvation, and she has the highest mission ever commended to any creature. We rejoice that the Mother of God is our Mother, too. Let us often call upon the Blessed Virgin as “Cause of our joy”, one of the most beautiful titles in her litany.

Check out this one page lesson plan from Ascend on the Nativity of Our Lady. Click on the picture for a great printable.

For further resources check out the following:

Busted Halo have a very good 2 minutes video on Mary which tells it as it is. Background music and good visuals worth checking HERE
More information on the Nativity of Our Lady can be sourced HERE

April 2025 Pilgrimage to Medjugorje

This year will be the 3^rd consecutive pilgrimage to Medjugorje for TY students and Papal Cross Students. The last two years have provided a most wonderful opportunity for our young people to recapture their faith in an atmosphere of peace, joy and friendship.

We are delighted also to invite teachers to join their students on this wonderful experience where we immerse ourselves in fun, laughter, climbing, listening, eating, learning and being. It is a pilgrimage not to be missed. If you are interested be sure to book your spot with Colette via fernsda@ferns.ie/087-9474513.

Follow a young man’s journey to Medjugorje, where the Virgin Mary has reportedly been appearing since 1981, giving messages and prophecies about the world’s future. THE TRIUMPH is now being released online in hopes that the entire world can experience the miracles of Medjugorje firsthand. (1hr 45 mins)

September 8^thInternational Literacy Day

Lá Idirnáisiúnta Tiomanta don Litearthacht

Celebrations in 2024

This year, ILD will be celebrated under the theme of “Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace”.

There is a pressing need to harness the transformative potential of literacy for promoting mutual understanding, social cohesion, and peace. In today’s world, in which multilingualism is a common practice for many, empowering people by adopting a first language-based, multilingual approach to literacy development and education is particularly effective for its cognitive, pedagogical, and socio-economic benefits. Such an approach can help promote mutual understanding and respect, while solidifying communal identities and collective histories.

ILD2024 will unpack issues related to literacy in multilingual contexts for achieving lasting peace and will explore possible solutions for enhancing policies, lifelong learning systems, governance, programmes, and practices. ILD2024 will be celebrated in-person and online at the global, regional, national, and local levels.

The global celebration will be held on 9 and 10 September 2024 in Yaoundé, Cameroon, It will include a global conference, the award ceremony of the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes, and side events, such as the annual meeting of Global Alliance of Literacy within the Framework of Lifelong Learning (GAL) and meetings of the Action Research on Measuring Literacy and Alternative Education (RAMAED), and the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. It will also be an opportunity to shed light on the literacy agenda in Cameroon and Africa in the context of the African Union’s Year of Education and beyond

If literacy is a victory for humanity, it is a fragile one: there is always the possibility of a relapse. Let this International Literacy Day be a reminder of this – and an opportunity to honour all those who are dedicated to making universal literacy a reality, not just a goal.

For further information on the day just click HERE

Ways to Celebrate International Literacy Day in Class

Read about some of history’s Heroes of Literacy who contributed to worldwide literacy.
Media literacy is critical in today’s world, and you should make sure your students have the tools they need to understand what’s real and what’s not. Devote some class time to helping them spot misinformation with our guide on Ways to Build Media Literacy in Your Students, and Why You Should.
Celebrate with a Read-a-Thon using your classroom library.
Schedule a video conferencing session with an author. Or, if you know any local authors in your area, invite them to your class. Get some pointers for a smooth visit here.
Share the story of NASA Astronaut Kjell Lindgren and how reading paved his path to space. You can find his story here.

Source https://www.waterford.org/resources/8-classroom-activities-for-international-literacy-day/

September 9th^:Feast Day of Blessed Frederic Ozanam

The Church throughout the world, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) and the Vincentian Family celebrate on 9th of September the feast of the blessed Frederick Ozanam, principal founder of the SSVP, whose feast day was established by the Vatican as the date of his death (8 September) was the feast of the birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Frédéric Ozanam always respected the poor while offering whatever service he could. Each man, woman, and child were too precious to live in poverty. Serving the poor taught Frédéric something about God that he could not have learned elsewhere. A man convinced of the inestimable worth of each human being, Frédéric served the poor of Paris well, and drew others into serving the poor of the world. Through the Saint Vincent de Paul Society, which he founded, his work continues to the present day. These words, spoken in 1834 by Frederic Ozanam, remain accurate in today’s world:

“The question which is agitating the world today is a social one. It is a struggle between those who have nothing and those who have too much. It is a violent clash of opulence and poverty which is shaking the ground under our feet. Our duty as Christians is to throw ourselves between these two camps in order to accomplish by love what justice alone cannot do”.

For a short video (under 2 mins) on his life and other resources see: HERE
For further information check out HERE
To access a copy of the St Vincent de Paul Summer 2024 bulletin just click HERE it provides a wonderful overview of the work and and the spiritual influence of blessed Frederick Ozanam lives on. There is also a page dedicated to the work of students from the South East. It is great to see so many schools for the Diocese of Ferns involved!

September9^th International Day to Protect Education from Attack

The day was established by a unanimous decision of the UN General Assembly, calling on UNESCO and UNICEF to raise awareness of the plight of millions of children living in countries affected by conflict. The resolution proclaiming the Day was presented by the State of Qatar and co-sponsored by 62 countries.

The Safe Schools Declaration was opened for state endorsement in Oslo, Norway, in May 2015. It is a political commitment to better protect students, teachers, schools and universities during armed conflict, to support the continuation of education during war, and to put in place concrete measures to deter the military use of schools. By endorsing the Declaration, States commit to restoring access to safe education and to developing education systems that are conflict-sensitive and promote respect between social or ethnic groups.

For a glimpse into the lives of young people who live in areas of armed conflict this is a 3 minute video which is definitely worth watching. https://youtu.be/PqZBepONNMI
For further information click here: https://www.un.org/en/observances/protect-education-day

September 10^th World Suicide Prevention Day

Working Together to Prevent Suicide

“Changing the narrative on suicide”

Suicide is a major public health challenge, with more than 700 000 deaths each year globally. Each suicide has far-reaching social, emotional, and economic consequences, and deeply affects individuals and communities worldwide.

The triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day for 2024-2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” with the call to action “Start the Conversation”. This theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides. Changing the narrative on suicide is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue and shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.

It’s crucial to recognize that World Suicide Prevention Day is a day dedicated to raising awareness, fostering change and providing a supportive sense of community and understanding for those with lived or living experience.

Every nation, community, and individual is at a different stage in their understanding and awareness of suicide prevention. No matter where you stand, there are many ways to be involved in World Suicide Prevention Day. We have built out a range of activities and resources to ensure everyone can participate meaningfully. Whether you are just beginning to learn about suicide prevention or are deeply involved in advocacy, there are opportunities for you to contribute and support this vital cause.

Download all the resources from posters, online banners, ideas, etc, from HERE

Check out HERE for some examples of actions from the HSE that can help to create hope this World Suicide Prevention Day.

Support is always available:

Get to know what mental health supports and services are available, and tell more people about them. Speak with a GP about what might be available locally. Tell your family, your friends, your colleagues – you never know when someone might need them. Many are open 24/7 and you can make contact in different ways, for example:

on the phone – Samaritans, visit samaritans.ieor freephone 116 123
by text message – Text About It, text HELLO to 50808, visit textaboutit.ie
online – MyMind, visit mymind.org
face-to-face – Pieta, visit pieta.ieor freephone 1800 247 247

You can also call the HSE YourMentalHealth Information Line, anytime day or night, for information on mental health, and what other services and supports are available near you – freephone 1800 111 888 or visit www.yourmentalhealth.ie.

Diocesan ‘Donal Walsh Live Life Trip to Knock 2023/24’

On May 9^th of this year we brought a bus of students from St Peters, Presentation and Loreto to experience the first ever Diocesan Trip to the Donal Walsh Live Life Day. The day was organised so well by the team in Knock with over 2,500 TY students from all over Ireland in attendance along with their teachers. During the day students had the opportunity to hear from the inspirational @nikki_bradley_speaks and also and the resilient Sean from Community Cenacolo. In addition the students also had time to enjoy a range of workshops as well as the unexpected sunshine!! Fr John Harris concluded the day with the celebration of the Eucharist.

Teachers were spoiled for lunch served by both Elma and Finbarr Walsh and their team while the young people ate lunch in the cafeteria and were free to walk the grounds of Knock and meet with other students. Although the journey was long, the bus journey turned out to be another highlight with plenty of fun and laughter involved.

We would most definitely recommend this day trip or overnight trip to all schools. The theme of each year is to live life to the fullest. It is a cheap day out with all students bringing their own lunch for the day.

Book your TY class in for next year!!

The next trip will be open once again to TY students and is scheduled to take place next May the 9^th 2025. This is a free event.

Contact Knock Youth Ministry team for more information at youthministry@knockshrine.ie or phone 094 93 75321

Who was Donal Walsh?

Donal Walsh was tired of seeing young people end their lives while he was fighting each day for his. Born and raised in County Kerry, Ireland, Walsh was diagnosed with bone cancer in his tibia at the age of 12. He endured nine months of chemotherapy and an operation to give him a prosthetic knee. After two years the cancer returned, this time to his lung. The young boy underwent surgery again to have half of his lung removed and endured more chemotherapy.

In October 2012, Walsh was diagnosed for a third — and final — time with tumors in five different locations in his body.

During his final months, Walsh took to writing about his battle with cancer and how his faith allowed him to persevere in what he called “climbing God’s mountains.” He also wrote about his frustration at seeing a rise in teenage suicide.

It was then that he decided to go on national television to encourage young people to value life.

With only a few weeks left to live, Walsh went on the Irish talk show “The Saturday Night Show” with Brendan O’Connor hoping to emphasize the value of life by sharing his own story.

“If I’m meant to be a symbol for people to appreciate life — it might not be just suicide — but just to appreciate life more in general, then I’d be happy to die if that’s what I’m dying for,” Walsh said during his television appearance. He spoke for 19 minutes, and those 19 minutes inspired a country. Walsh passed away on May 12, 2013, at the age of 16.

Months later, the coroner of County Kerry reported a decrease in suicides after Walsh spoke out. Ten years later, his legacy lives on.

On May 11 of this year, more than 2,000 Irish students gathered at the Knock Basilica and Shrine in County Mayo, Ireland, to honour Donal Walsh’s memory. The students listened to several speakers who spoke about different issues that affect the world today, especially mental health. The Diocese will be organising a bus to next years meeting in Knock on the 9^th of May 2024 for all those participating in the Pope John Paul II Awards. Contact Colette for further information on 087-9474513.

Sourced from https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/254531/legacy-of-irish-teenager-who-inspired-a-nation-lives-on-10-years-after-his-death

September 10^th – St Peter Claver

A native of Spain, young Jesuit Peter Claver left his homeland forever in 1610 to be a missionary in the colonies of the New World. He sailed into Cartagena, a rich port city washed by the Caribbean. He was ordained there in 1615.

By this time the slave trade had been established in the Americas for nearly 100 years, and Cartagena was a chief center for it. Ten thousand slaves poured into the port each year after crossing the Atlantic from West Africa under conditions so foul and inhuman that an estimated one-third of the passengers died in transit.

As soon as a slave ship entered the port, Peter Claver moved into its infested hold to minister to the ill-treated and exhausted passengers. After the slaves were herded out of the ship like chained animals and shut up in nearby yards to be gazed at by the crowds, Claver plunged in among them with medicines, food, bread, brandy, lemons, and tobacco and assured his brothers and sisters of their human dignity and God’s love. During the 40 years of his ministry, Claver instructed and baptized an estimated 300,000 slaves.

For more information click on: https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-peter-claver

September 11^th – 9/11 R.E. Resources /Acmhainn

A reminder that the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is committed to providing ongoing resources for students, teachers, families, and the general public.

They provide a host of educational resources, the Museum strives to foster a deeper understanding of the continuing impact of 9/11 and terrorism on America and the world at large. Recognising that it can be difficult for parents and teachers to talk about terrorism with young people, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum remind us that these conversations are crucial to help future generations understand the events that shaped their world.

Teach + Learn Information, context and resources exploring the attacks of 9/11, including excellent education programmes, lesson plans and interactive timelines are available at:

September 12^thMemorial of the Most Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary Cuimhneachán ar Ainm ró- Naofa na Maighdine Beannaithe Muire.

The feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary began in Spain in 1513 and in 1671 was extended to all of Spain and the Kingdom of Naples. In 1683, John Sobieski, king of Poland, brought an army to the outskirts of Vienna to stop the advance of Muslim armies loyal to Mohammed IV of Constantinople. After Sobieski entrusted himself to the Blessed Virgin Mary, he and his soldiers thoroughly defeated the Muslims. Pope Innocent XI extended this feast to the entire Church. Mary always points us to God, reminding us of God’s infinite goodness. She helps us to open our hearts to God’s ways, wherever those may lead us. Honoured under the title “Queen of Peace,” Mary encourages us to cooperate with Jesus in building a peace based on justice, a peace that respects the fundamental human rights of all peoples.

For further information click on: https://www.franciscanmedia.org/mosaint-holy-name-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary/
Fr Mike Schmitz is very popular at the moment through the Bible in a Year podcast. He does a lovely talk on Our Lady and points out two reasons why calling Mary our mother can improve our relationship with Christ, and strengthen our faith life. – he definitely has a talent for keeping your attention. You can watch his minute video HERE

September 13^th St John Chrysostom, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

People who are willing to stand up for what is right and condemn what is evil leave their mark on the world. But they also may find themselves with enemies. John Chrysostom, an eloquent bishop-preacher of the fourth century, understood this.

In 397, John was made the bishop-patriarch of Constantinople. He lived a simple life, giving his wealth over for the building of hospitals, and he set about reforming the clergy and the city. He deposed bishops for buying their way into office. John sold much of the expensive furniture in the bishop’s residence and gave the money to those who were poor. He attacked wealthy people for misuse of their riches. John sought to reform the lax clergy, to straighten out the badly managed budget, and to rid the land of violence. His zeal for charity and justice angered the empress, Eudoxia, and provoked the jealousy of Theophilus, the patriarch of Alexandria. John was impeached and exiled. Even though he had the support of Pope Innocent I, John was exiled even farther away and died en route in 407.

The role of a true prophet is to comfort the disturbed and to disturb the comfortable. John Chrysostom did just that.

For some great quotes by this Saint check here : HERE
For further information on him check here: HERE

September 14^th Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Féile Ghlórú na Croise Naofa

The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, celebrated every year on September 14th, recalls three historical events: the finding of the True Cross by Saint Helena, the mother of the emperor Constantine; the dedication of churches built by Constantine on the site of the Holy Sepulchre and Mount Calvary; and the restoration of the True Cross to Jerusalem by the emperor Heraclius II.

But in a deeper sense, the feast also celebrates the Holy Cross as the instrument of our salvation. This instrument of torture, designed to degrade the worst of criminals, became the life-giving tree that reversed Adam’s Original Sin when he ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil in the Garden of Eden.

Sourced from:

For a 2 page lesson plan on why we exalt the Cross

just click on the picture.

September 15^th: Our Lady of Sorrows

Devotion to the Seven Sorrows of Our Lady has its roots in Sacred Scripture and in Christian piety, which always associates the Blessed Mother with her suffering Son. Today’s feast was introduced by the Servites in order to intensify devotion to Our Lady’s Sorrows. In 1817 Pius VII — suffering grievously in exile but finally liberated by Mary’s intercession — extended the feast to the universal Church. The title “Our Lady of Sorrows” focuses on Mary’s intense suffering during the passion and death of Christ. “The Seven Dolors,” the title by which it was celebrated in the 17th century, referred to the seven swords that pierced the Heart of Mary.

The feast is like an octave for the birthday of Our Lady on September 8th. As Mary stood at the foot of the Cross on which Jesus hung, the sword of sorrow Simeon had foretold pierced her soul. Below are the seven sorrows of Mary:

The prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:25-35)
The flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15)
Loss of the Child Jesus for three days (Luke 2:41-50)
Mary meets Jesus on his way to Calvary (Luke 23:27-31; John 19:17)
Crucifixion and Death of Jesus (John 19:25-30)
The body of Jesus being taken from the Cross (Psalm 130; Luke 23:50-54; John 19:31-37)
The burial of Jesus (Isaiah 53:8; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:38-42; Mark 15:40-47)

For further information check the following:

For a one page printout of a prayer service meditating on the 7 Sorrows just click on the picture to the left.

September 21^st: International Day of Peace / Lá Idirnáisiúnta Tiomanta don Síocháin

Each year the International Day of Peace (IDP) is observed around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire. Never has our world needed peace more.

2024 Global Peace Day Theme:
Cultivating a Culture of Peace

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace.

Learn more HERE

Establishing a culture of peace in our schools:

Divide into groups of 5 and ask each group to answer the following 2 questions:

What do I want this space (school) to be like each week? Eg, positive, relaxing, calm, etc.
In order to achieve this what must we do? Eg. Respect, smile, interact, etc.

This exercise promotes a unified positive sheet where everyone agrees in the end that each of us has a role in making this world a better place.

September 21^st: Matthew the Evangelist / Maitiú, Soiscéalaí

At the time that Jesus summoned him to follow Him, Matthew was a publican, that is, a tax-collector for the Romans. His profession was hateful to the Jews because it reminded them of their subjection; the publican, also, was regarded by the Pharisees as the typical sinner. St. Matthew is known to us principally as an Evangelist. He was the first to put down in writing our Lord’s teaching and the account of His life. His Gospel was written in Aramaic, the language that our Lord Himself spoke. Matthew’s Gospel makes clear that Jesus is the fulfilment of everything said by the prophets in the Old Testament. His book is the first of the four Gospels in the New Testament. The Church established St. Matthew’s feast day as September 21^st.

Source: https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=84

http://www.stmatthewcr.org/parish/who-was-st-matthew/

September 23^rd St. Padre Pio / Naomh Padre Pio

St. Padre Pio was an Italian priest who was known for his piety and charity, as well as the gift of the stigmata, which has never been explained.

Padre Pio was hearing confessions when he felt pain in his hands and feet. He noticed the stigmata, the wounds of Christ, appearing on his hands and feet. The experience was painful. Bleeding occurred. The wounds smelled of roses, and although they continued to weep, they never became infected.

Doctors who later examined the stigmata were amazed at their perfectly round shape. By 1919, word began to spread about Padre Pio’s stigmata and people came from far away to examine him. Padre Pio died on September 23, 1968. His funeral was attended by over 100,000 people. Pope John Paul II recognized Padre Pio as a saint on June 16, 2002. His feast day is September 23rd.

Some quotes by Saint Padre Pio:

Today’s society does not pray. That is why it is falling apart.
Prayer is the best weapon we possess, the key that opens the heart of God.
Pray, hope and don’t worry. Worry is useless. Our Merciful Lord will listen to your prayer.
Endeavor to unite the simplicity of children with the prudence of adults.
Do not be so given to the activity of Martha as to forget the silence of Mary. May the Virgin who so well reconciled the one with the other be your sweet model and inspiration.
It would be easier for the world to exist without the sun than without the Holy Mass.
A thousand years of enjoying human glory is not worth even an hour spent sweetly communing with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.
In the spiritual life he who does not advance goes backward. It happens as with a boat which always must go ahead. If it stands still the wind will blow it back.
You must speak to Jesus also with the heart, besides the lips; indeed, in certain cases you must speak to him only with the heart.
We must always have courage, and if some spiritual languor comes upon us, let us run to the feet of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, and let us place ourselves in the midst of the heavenly perfumes, and we will undoubtedly regain our strength.

Click HERE for a full length movie about St. Padre Pio
For more information on St Padre Pio check HERE
For prayers and devotions etc check HERE

September 25^th : St. Finbarr

Born in the second half of the 6th century AD, in Achaid Duborcon near Crookstown, Co. Cork, to a slave girl and her metalworker husband from Connacht, who had moved to Munster to find work, St

Finbarr (also known as Barra) is the patron saint of Cork.

As an adult, Finbarr left home with three unidentified ascetics and spent time in Scotland, including on the Isle of Barra, before establishing various hermitages in his native area, notably at Kilclooney and on the island here in Gougane Barra. St Finbarr died at Cloyne in 633 AD and his remains were taken to Cork to be enclosed in a silver shrine in what is now St Finbarr’s Cathedral.

September 27^th Feast Day of St. Vincent de Paul

Féile Naomh Uinseann de Pól

The name of Vincent de Paul is synonymous with compassion and practical help for the needy. As a young priest Vincent was deeply moved by the misery in which many of the people in city slums and remote country areas in France lived. The poor were neglected both spiritually and materially, while the rich lived in luxury. He felt urged to do something to change the situation. Alone he could do very little, so he enlisted the help of many willing volunteers, mostly women, and in 1617 formed them into groups to help the poor in their local areas.

These groups became known as the Confraternities of Charity. Concerned about the spiritual poverty of the country people, four years later, in 1625 he gathered another group around him and the Congregation of the Mission, better known in Ireland as the Vincentian Fathers, came into being. Then in 1633, together with St Louise de Marillac, he co-founded the Daughters of Charity, who would have “for cloister the streets of the city.” For more information on St. Vincent see: HERE

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP)

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) was founded in Ireland in 1844. It is the largest voluntary charitable organisation in Ireland. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) charity is a Christian voluntary organisation, working with people experiencing poverty and disadvantage. Inspired by their principal founder, Frederic Ozanam, and patron, St. Vincent de Paul, they seek to respond to the call every Christian receives to bring the love of Christ to those in need: “I was hungry and you gave me food” (Matthew 25). No work of charity is foreign to the Society. They are involved in a diverse range of activities:

https://www.svp.ie/home.aspx for further information.
https://www.svp.ie/about-us/history-spirituality.aspx

Teacher: Young SVP provides opportunities to engage in social action in local communities and encourages personal and social development. The programme will enable young students to develop projects that will improve the lives of others and gain a better understanding of Social Justice. For more information check : https://www.svp.ie/what-we-do/young-svp.aspx

September 29^th: International Day of Awareness of Food Loss Waste

Reducing food losses and waste is essential in a world where the number of people affected by hunger has been slowly on the rise since 2014, and tons and tons of edible food are lost and/or wasted every day.

Globally, around 13.2 percent of food produced is lost between harvest and retail, while an estimated 19 percent of total global food production is wasted in households, in the food service and in retail all together

This International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste 2024 will highlight the critical need for financing to bolster efforts to reduce food loss and waste, contribute to achieving climate goals and advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

Get involved!

Visit the FAO website on this International Day, consult its key messages and areas of action to solve food loss and waste, and spread the message through its material in different languages.

Teacher this might be a good time to do a group work exercise on what we waste daily and how we can reduce our waste. It could also become a whole school exercise.

September 29^th : Feast of the Archangels / Féile na nArdaingeal

Today is the feast of St. Michael, St. Gabriel and St. Raphael. The liturgy celebrates the feast of these three archangels who are venerated in the tradition of the Church. Michael is the archangel who fought against Satan and all his evil angels, defending all the friends of God. He is the protector of all humanity from the snares of the devil. Gabriel announced to Zachariah the forthcoming birth of John the Baptist, and to Mary, the birth of Jesus. His greeting to the Virgin, “Hail, full of grace,” is one of the most familiar and frequent prayers of the Christian people. Raphael is the archangel who took care of Tobias on his journey.

Teacher the idea of an Angel accompanying each one of us through life is a source of comfort. Our Angel Guardian may not be revealed to us but the Angel is there none the less. It could be an exercise in itself to explore what this means, why we have a Spiritual Companion with us and how can that companion enable us to feel less lonely at times when we feel lonely.

For further information, resources and support please contact:

Colette O’Doherty

Director of Religious Education & Youth Ministry

Email: fernsda@ferns.ie

Mobile: 087-9474513

May God Bless all our work!