Dear Parishioners,

I think it’s fair to say that the majority of us have experienced difficulties in the last year which we have never experienced before as a result of Covid-19 and its consequences.

On a personal level, my ministry has been very much impacted as social interaction is a major part of priesthood between priest and parishioners.  Unfortunately, this has not been possible in 2020 and it seems that this will be extended to the first part of 2021.  I am sure that my experiences mirrored that of my parishioners in the last year.

However, there have been great signs of hope too and we salute all front-line workers, teachers and all those who kept the country running in the last year.  In particular I would like to pay tribute to all those who helped out in this time of need, such as sanitisers and stewards.

Yet again, it has been a painful experience to limit our congregation to ticket only.  However, I continue to be inspired by Christ, the light of the world which we are told in scripture penetrates the darkness of the night.  No matter what way we feel I hope that Christians will find solace in the Christ child.

Christmas is a time of hope.  As we go to print, we note that we are in another lockdown.  Instead of looking at it as a negative, let us use this time to reflect on ourselves and on our faith, and so to turn the next few weeks into a positive.  Let us be hopeful, trusting in Christ, of better and brighter days to come.

Nollaig shona daoibh go leir

Fr. Declan

Christmas Cards

The intentions of those to whom the Christmas Day Mass cards are sent will be remembered at all Masses in the parish on Christmas Day.

Covid-19 Update

As per recent Government guidelines, all weekend Masses will be on-line from Sunday, 27^th December.  Parishioners can access these Masses via the parish website www.sjparish.ie scroll down to the bottom left-hand side of the screen for the YouTube link.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused but we must adhere to Government guidelines.

Parish Office

The Parish Office will close on Wednesday, 23rd December at 12:30 pm and re-open on Monday, 11^th at 9:30 am.

First Friday Calls

Unfortunately, due to Government restrictions, first Friday calls will be suspended for January.  We hope to resume in February, depending on government guidelines at the time.  We will contact all on the list in advance.

Letter from Bishop Tom

Parishioners are invited to take home a copy of a Christmas message from Bishop Tom which can be found beside the Newsletters.

Weekly Envelopes

• The new boxes for 2021 are being distributed. Thanks to all involved in delivering them.
• Thanks to all who contribute each week and all who contribute by means of Standing Order.
• If you are existing contributor and you do not receive your box by the new year, or if you would like to receive a box, please contact the parish office.
• If parishioners prefer, donations can be made electronically using the following: BIC BOFIIE2D, IBAN: IE85 BOFI 9035 4175 3568 29.
• Please remember any cheques must be made payable to Stamullen Julianstown Parish, otherwise the bank will return them.

Missals

A limited number of St. Paul’s Missals (€7) are available for sale in the sacristies.

St.  Patrick’s Club – Christmas Lotto

Drawn on 22/12/2020. Numbers drawn: 2,3,17,21. Weekly Winners: Mick Rowe, Peter & Ger, Maria McGrath, Martin Curran, Carol Martin.  Second draw: Noreen McMahon, Bernie, Ciara & Mark, Gerry Draper, Janet Kennedy, Sinead Bolger. Merry Christmas to all our supporters.  Next week’s Jackpot: €9,500.