Belfast’s oldest church reopens
The oldest Catholic Church in Belfast has reopened for Mass after being closed for almost two months.
Masses were celebrated at St Mary’s at the weekend for the first time since mid-July, with Mass having been celebrated at the Living Youth building, beside the church in Chapel Lane.
St Mary’s, where Mass was first celebrated in 1784, has been undergoing both external and internal restoration since May, but the work outside the church is not yet complete.
Bishop Noel Treanor is set to attend the official re-opening, expected to be in December at the vigil Mass for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
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Derry bishop to lead JPII pilgrimage
Bishop Donal McKeown of Derry is leading a special pilgrimage to Rome to celebrate 10 years of the Pope John Paul II Award.
This pilgrimage is aimed at Pope John Paul II Award participants and leaders, any student who has completed the award/left school, or anyone involved in youth ministry/youth work.
Pilgrimage highlights include an audience with Pope Francis, a visit to the tomb of Pope St John Paul II and a half day conference on the subjects of Youth Ministry, World Meeting of Families and World Youth Day.
Taking place at the end of October; to book your place get in touch with the Award office on admin@thepopejohnpauliiaward.com or 028/048 7126 4087.