As Bishop Alan McGuckian SJ begins his time as bishop of the di ocese he would love everyone in the diocese to join him in nine days of pr ayer\, asking Jesus to give us a new heart. Many people among us are weary or wounded\, hurting in one way or another. He wants us to make a novena for each other\, aware that we are brothers and sisters in Christ.< /p>\n
The prayers will be available in a booklet you can pick up at Mass or read online\ ; it will also include a piece of scripture and a reflection for each day for those who wish to go a little deeper. Bishop Alan’s hope is that this novena will be prayed either individually or together by parishes\, group s\, schools or families.
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Join the Novena Online
| Date | \nLocation | \nTime | \nOnline Link | \n
| Thursday 30th May | \nSacred Heart Parish \, Belfast | \n10am | \n< td style='width: 33.3333%\; height: 48px\;'>Link\n|
| Friday 31st May | \nChurch of the Sacred Heart\, Cloughmills | \n7.30pm | \nLink | \n
| \n | \n | \n | \n |
| Sunday 2nd June | \nChurch of the Sacred Heart\, Cargan | \n10.30am | \nLink | \n
| \n | Saul | \n3pm | \n\n |
| Monday 3rd June | \nParish of St Michael’s | \n10am | \n< a href='https://www.churchmedia.tv/st-michael-the-archangel-church'>Link | \n
| Tuesday 4th June | \nChurch of the Sacred Heart\, Dundrum | \n10am | \nLink | \n
| Wednesday 5th June | \nChurch of the Sacred Heart\, Ballyclare | \n7pm | \nLink | \n
| Thursday 6th June | \nParish of Lisburn | \n10am | \nLink\n |
| Friday 7th June | \nSt Mary’s Church\, Chapel Lane\, Belfast | \n1pm | \nLink | \n
| \n | St Peter’s Cathedral\, Belfast | \n7pm | \nLink | \n
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Prayer Resources
\nDownload a Copy of the Sacred H eart Novena Booklet
\nDTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240530 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240608 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Novena to the Sacred Heart: Renew our Hearts URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/novena-sacred-heart-renew-hear ts/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2024/05/Sacred-Heart-Novena-Facebook-Cover-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medi um\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Sacred-Heart- Novena-Facebook-Cover-300x114.jpg\;300\;114\;1\,large\;https://www.downand connor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Sacred-Heart-Novena-Facebook-Cover-1 024x390.jpg\;1024\;390\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/ uploads/2024/05/Sacred-Heart-Novena-Facebook-Cover-scaled.jpg\;2560\;974\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18613@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
To mark Laudato Si’ Week 2025\, Bishop Alan McGuckian will b e planting a tree in the beautiful grounds of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church on Tuesday 27th May which is a small symbolic act of commitment to the principles of Laudato Si’.
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250527 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250528 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Laudato Si’ Week – Tree Planting URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/laudato-si-week-tree-planting/ X-COST-TYPE:free END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18644@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
Irish Bishops offered prayers for peace in the Holy Land\, for Ukraine\, Sudan and in other troubled par ts of the world at their Standing Committee meeting in Maynooth on 26 May. In particular\, bishops discussed the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza\, stating:
\n“From all over Ireland\, parishioners are reporting thei r horror and helplessness on seeing images of death and communal destructi on in Gaza. Exhausted mothers can no longer nourish their young\, childre n are dying of malnutrition\, while aid lorries full of supplies are being refused entry into the territory\, or are not safely arriving at their de stination.
\n“We in Ireland must pray for a change of heart. Throug hout the month of June – the month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus – we call on everyone to pray for an outpouring of the compassion of God on a heartl ess world.
\n“To see the relentless bombardment of civilian areas\, the deliberate withholding of food from the starving\, as well as the cal lous holding of hostages\, it appears that humanity has lost its heart. I n the face of these horrors\, we invite everyone to turn to the heart of J esus throughout the month of June by praying for the renewal of heart that our world so desperately needs. In particular\, we call on all Catholics to make 6 June\, a day of prayer and fasting in solidarity with our siste rs and brothers who are suffering at this time in the Holy Land.
\n“ We echo Pope Leo XIV’s recent appeal to allow into Gaza ‘the entry of dign ified humanitarian aid and to put an end to the hostilities\, whose heart- breaking price is paid by the children\, elderly\, and the sick.’”
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250606 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250607 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Day of Prayer and Fasting for Gaza URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/day-prayer-fasting-gaza/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/06/502500129_1115974277228230_5791231575293923167_n-150x150.jpg\;150 \;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06 /502500129_1115974277228230_5791231575293923167_n-300x169.jpg\;300\;169\;1 \,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/50250012 9_1115974277228230_5791231575293923167_n-1024x576.jpg\;1024\;576\;1\,full\ ;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/502500129_111597 4277228230_5791231575293923167_n.jpg\;1920\;1080\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18652@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
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Down & Co nnor Diocesan Novena to The Sacred Heart
\nJune 19th to J
une 27th\, the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
It is with great joy as a diocese we celebrate the Novena to The Sacred Heart. This year we celeb rate the 350th Anniversary of the apparitions of the Sacred Heart to St. M argaret Mary Alacoque. The Sacred Heart Novena invites you to nine days of prayer\, cumulating in the celebration of the Feast of the Sacred Heart. These days offer a special opportunity to deepen your relationship with Je sus\, to entrust your needs and intentions to His loving heart\, a prayerf ul expression of our hope in this Jubilee Year.
\nThe prayers will be available in a booklet you can pick up at Mass or read online\; it will also inclu de a piece of scripture and a reflection for each day for those who wish t o go a little deeper. The images used in this year’s Novena book are by st udents from our schools from across the diocese. Bishop Alan’s hope is th at this novena will be prayed either individually or together by parishes\ , groups\, schools or families. Even young children can join in with the short prayers!
\nResources
\n\n DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250619 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250628 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Diocesan Sacred Heart Novena URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/diocesan-sacred-heart-novena/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/06/Sacred-Heart-Novena-Facebook-Post-25-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,me dium\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Sacred-Hear t-Novena-Facebook-Post-25-300x225.jpg\;300\;225\;1\,large\;https://www.dow nandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Sacred-Heart-Novena-Facebook-Pos t-25-1024x768.jpg\;1024\;768\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-co ntent/uploads/2025/06/Sacred-Heart-Novena-Facebook-Post-25-scaled.jpg\;256 0\;1920\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18308@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
Down and Connor Lourdes Pilgrimage July 2025
\n\n\n
PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL PLACES ON THE 5 DAY PILGRIMAGE ARE NOW FULLY BO
OKED
\n
Further Information:
\n\nDown and Connor Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2025 (Details)
\n2025 Poster on D&C Pilgrimage to L ourdes
\n\n
\n
PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL PLACES ON THE 5 DAY PILGRIMAGE ARE NOW FULLY BOOKED
\nDTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250709 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250717 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:D&C Lourdes Diocesan Pilgrimage URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/dc-lourdes-diocesan-pilgrimage / X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2022/02/Lourdes-3-1-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downand connor.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lourdes-3-1-300x156.jpg\;300\;156\;1 \,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lourdes- 3-1-1024x533.jpg\;1024\;533\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-con tent/uploads/2022/02/Lourdes-3-1.jpg\;1039\;541\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18556@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
Pilgrimage to Rome & Assisi – Last Places Remaining!
\nJoin the Alumni & Friends of the Cat holic Chaplaincy at Queen’s for a Jubilee Year of Hope pilgrimage to Ro me and Assisi\, from 25 August to 1 September 2025.
\nEnjoy 4★ hotel accommo dation\, private coach travel\, guided visits to key religious and cultura l sites\, and selected meals—this promises to be the trip of a lifetime .
\nAdditions to the itinerary include a visit to P
ope Francis’ tomb in the Basilica of St Mary Major\, and a General Audienc
e with our newly elected Pope.
With just four doub le/twin rooms left (and a waiting list for singles)\, don’t miss this unforgettable opportunity.
\nWhether you’re a graduat e\, a parent\, or simply a friend—we consider you part of the Chaplaincy f amily.
\nFor more information\, contact Shannon Campbell at: catholic chaplaincy@qub.ac.uk
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250825 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250902 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/pilgrimage-rome-assisi/ X-COST-TYPE:free END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18921@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
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Abide Women’s Conference are organising a conference next weekend from November 21st to 23rd 2025 in D onegal. This will be their second conference. Last year\, over 450 women t ravelled to join\, and their enthusiasm and desire for a second one made i t very natural to host another one this year. Women from all over Ireland are attending.
\nThe conference is centred on encountering Christ in His Real Presence in the Eucharist and in His Word. There will be more th an twenty priests present for ministry\, along with several religious sist ers who will witness to the beauty of consecrated life\, speak with the wo men\, and build friendships and connections throughout the weekend.
\n< p>For more information:\n\nDTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251121 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251124 LOCATION:Great Northern Hotel\, Bundoran SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Abide in His Love – Women’s Conference URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/abide-womens-conference/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/11/Abide-in-His-Love-1-150x150.png\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www .downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Abide-in-His-Love-1-212x300. png\;212\;300\;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/ 2025/11/Abide-in-His-Love-1.png\;508\;720\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18924@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
\n
Columbanus Festival 22-23rd November 2025 in Bangor.
\nMusic/workshops/talk/guided walk/church service.
\n< p>For more information https://frie ndsofcolumbanusbangor.co.uk/events\nIncludes a special lecture on early Irish manuscripts by UCC professor.
\nTickets can be purcha sed by contacting Bangor VIC Office – 02891 270069 or bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251122 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251124 LOCATION:Bangor SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Columbanus Festival in Bangor URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/columbanus-festival-bangor/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/11/FoCB-Logo-150x150.png\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downandco nnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/FoCB-Logo-300x151.png\;300\;151\;1\,la rge\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/FoCB-Logo-10 24x516.png\;1024\;516\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/u ploads/2025/11/FoCB-Logo.png\;1200\;605\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-19072@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
< /p>\n
Disc ernment Retreat for Diocesan Priesthood
\n6th–8th March 2 026
\n\n
For more in formation\, contact Fr Conor McGrath
\n DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260306 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260309 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Discernment Retreat for Diocesan Priesthood URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/discernment-retreat-diocesan-p riesthood/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2026/02/Vocations-2026-150x150.png\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.down andconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Vocations-2026-200x300.png\;200\; 300\;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Vo cations-2026-683x1024.png\;683\;1024\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.o rg/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Vocations-2026.png\;1024\;1536\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-19133@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
Feast of Divine Mercy – 1 2th April 2026
\nSt. Peter’s Cathedral\, Belfast
\nRo sary (2:30pm). Divine Mercy Chaplet and Holy Mass (3:00pm).
\nSacred Heart Church\, North Belf ast
\nRosary (2:15pm). Divine Mercy Chaplet\ , Holy Mass and Blessing with relic of St. Faustina.
\nYou are most welcome to join us in St Peter’s cathedral or the Sacred Heart Ch urch for the celebration of this wonderful Feast. We would remind everyone coming to the celebration that there is no obligation to go to the Sacram ent of Reconciliation on the Feast Day itself\, as long as you avail of th e Sacrament of Reconciliation within the octave of the Feast (eight days). St. Faustina went to the sacrament on the day before the Feast day.
\nFor those who are unable to join us in person\, you may wish to join us through the webcam
\nDTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260412 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260413 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Feast of Divine Mercy Celebrations URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/feast-divine-mercy-celebration s/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/03/Divine-Mercy-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downan dconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Divine-Mercy-300x191.jpg\;300\;191\ ;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Divine -Mercy-1024x653.jpg\;1024\;653\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp- content/uploads/2025/03/Divine-Mercy.jpg\;1200\;765\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-19208@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
<
/p>
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260418
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260427
SEQUENCE:0
SUMMARY:Novena for Vocations
URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/vocations-sunday-good-shepherd
-sunday/
X-COST-TYPE:free
X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads
/2026/04/Invitation-to-Pray-150x150.png\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.
downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Invitation-to-Pray-214x300.pn
g\;214\;300\;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/20
26/04/Invitation-to-Pray-731x1024.png\;731\;1024\;1\,full\;https://www.dow
nandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Invitation-to-Pray.png\;1428\;20
00\;
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
UID:ai1ec-19227@www.downandconnor.org
DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z
CATEGORIES:
CONTACT:
DESCRIPTION:
Knock Pilgrimage to Pray for Pea ce in the Holy Land
\nPeople from all over Ireland are invi ted to Knock Shrine on Saturday May 16\, for a special pilgrimage to pray for peace in the Holy Land.
\nThe pilgrimage – organised by the papa l charity Aid to the Church in Need – will be led by Bishop William Shomal i from Bethlehem.
\nBishop Shomali will offer a message of hope at 1 1am\, and celebrate Mass at 3pm.
\nAll are welcome.
\nMore inf ormation at www.acnireland.org
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260513 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260514 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Knock Pilgrimage to Pray for Peace in Holy Land URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/knock-pilgrimage-pray-peace-ho ly-land/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2026/04/ACN-150x150.png\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downandconnor.o rg/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/ACN-213x300.png\;213\;300\;1\,large\;https:/ /www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/ACN.png\;512\;720\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-19062@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:Down and Connor Lourdes Pilgrimage July 2026
\n\nFurther Info rmation:
\nPilgrim Booking Form 2026< /a>
\nDown and Connor Pilgrim age to Lourdes 2026 (Details)
\n2026 Poster on D&C Pilgrimage to Lourdes
\n
\n
\n DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260708 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260716 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Down and Connor Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2026 URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/connor-diocesan-pilgrimage-lou rdes-2026/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2022/02/Lourdes-3-1-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downand connor.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lourdes-3-1-300x156.jpg\;300\;156\;1 \,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Lourdes- 3-1-1024x533.jpg\;1024\;533\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-con tent/uploads/2022/02/Lourdes-3-1.jpg\;1039\;541\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-19345@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
24 Hours of Prayer for Vocations<
/span>
\nFeast of St John Via
nney
\n3–4 Au
gust
On the Feast of St John Vianney\, the patron saint of parish priests\, we warmly invite t he faithful from across the Diocese to join us for 24 Hours of Prayer for Vocations to the Diocesan Priesthood.
\nThe vigil will begin with Holy Mass at 7pm on Monday\, 3 August\, and co nclude with Holy Mass at 7pm on Tuesday\, 4 August.
\nThroughout the 24 hours\, the Blessed Sacrament will be ex posed for Eucharistic Adoration. Priests will be available at various time s during the night to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation\, offering an opportunity to encounter the Lord’s mercy as we pray together.
\nWe especially invite our parishes\, prayer groups\, schools\, religious communities\, youth groups\, families\, and i ndividuals to come\, whether for a few minutes or a longer period\, to pra y that the Lord of the harvest will continue to raise up generous men to s erve His people as diocesan priests. St John Vianney once said\, “The prie sthood is the love of the Heart of Jesus.” As we celebrate his feast\, let us unite in asking the Lord to inspire new vocations and to strengthen th ose already called to serve.
\nWhether you can stay for an hour\, join us for Mass\, or simply drop in to pray\, your presence and your prayers will make a real difference. All are welco me. Please email Fr Conor – c .mcgrath@downandconnor.org
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260803 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260805 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:24 Hours of Prayer for Vocations – Feast of St John Vianney URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/24-hours-prayer-vocations-feas t-st-john-vianney/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/02/Vocation-150x150.png\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downandcon nor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Vocation-300x198.png\;300\;198\;1\,larg e\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Vocation-1024x 676.png\;1024\;676\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uplo ads/2025/02/Vocation.png\;1414\;934\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18440@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:\n
Feast of Divine Mercy – 27th April 2 025
\nSt. Pet er’s Cathedral\, Belfast
\nRosary (2:30pm).
\nDivine Mercy Chaplet and Holy Mass (3:00pm).
\n\n
St. Paul’s Church\, Belfast
\nExposition of Blessed Sa crament\, Rosary and Reflections from St. Faustina’s diar y (2pm)
\nDivine Mercy Chaplet\, Benediction\, Bles sing of Image and Holy Mass (3pm).
\n\n
Exposition of Blessed Sacrament\, Blessing of Divine Mercy I mage and Divine Mercy talk (2:30pm)
\nDivine Mercy Chaplet (3pm). Holy Mass (5pm).
\n\n
Sacred Heart Church\, North Belfast
\nRosary (2:15pm)
\nDivine Mercy Ch aplet\, Holy Mass and Blessing with relic of St. Faustina.
\n< p> \nYou are most welcome to join us in St Peter’s cathedral\, St Paul’s\, St Mary’s or the Sacred Heart Church for the celebration of this wonderful Feast. We would remind everyone com ing to the celebration that there is no obligation to go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation on the Feast Day itself\, as long as you avail of the Sa crament of Reconciliation within the octave of the Feast (eight days). St . Faustina went to the sacrament on the day before the Feast day.
\nFor those who are unable to join in person\, you may wish to join through the webcam. Webcam Links:
\n\n\n\n DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250427T143000 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Divine Mercy Sunday URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/divine-mercy-sunday/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/03/Divine-Mercy-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downan dconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Divine-Mercy-300x191.jpg\;300\;191\ ;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Divine -Mercy-1024x653.jpg\;1024\;653\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp- content/uploads/2025/03/Divine-Mercy.jpg\;1200\;765\; X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18541@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
Bishop Alan McGuckian SJ will celebrat e Solemn Requiem Mass for the happy repose of the soul of Pope Francis on Wednesday 30th April at 7pm in St Peter’s Cathedral\, Belfast.
\nAll are welcome.
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250430T190000 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Solemn Requiem Mass for Pope Francis in St Peter’s Cathedral\, Belf ast URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/solemn-requiem-mass-pope-franc is-st-peters-cathedral-belfast/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/04/FB-Post-Requiem-30.04.25-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https: //www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/FB-Post-Requiem-30.04.2 5-300x251.jpg\;300\;251\;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-conten t/uploads/2025/04/FB-Post-Requiem-30.04.25.jpg\;940\;788\; X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18605@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
Laudato Si’ W eek 2025
\n‘Rai sing Hope – Living Laudato Si’ conference on Sunday 25 May\, Clonard Monas tery Belfast
\nOn behalf of D own and Connor Laudato Si Group\, we invite you and representatives from y our Parish to attend a conference ‘Raising Hope – Living Laudato Si’ on Su nday 25 May in Clonard Monastery Belfast\, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the encyclical. (Register for the Conference)
\nThe conference will start at 2.30pm\, ending at 4.30pm\, and will be opened by Professor John Barry\, QUB\, with presentat ions from Eco – Congregation Ireland\, Trócaire and Laudato Si’ animators. Contributors w ill share the support that is available – helping us in our journey to imp lement the messages of the encyclical.
\nThere will be opportunity to meet with friends from Parishes within the Diocese and to hear at first hand details on projects that they have in p lace and how these are being resourced. All of us can cooperate as ins truments of God for the care of creation\, each according to his or her ow n culture\, experience\, involvements and talents (LS14).
\nYou are also invited to a photographic exhibit ion on ‘Care for Our Common Home’ which will be on display. The exhibitio n was undertaken by the Westcourt Centre\, Belfast (part of the global Edm und Rice network) to mark the 10th anniversary of publication of the encyc lical. Rather than a problem to be solved\, the world is a joyful mys tery to be contemplated with gladness and praise (LS12).
\nDown and Connor Laudato Si’ Gro up
\n\n\n
Furt her Resources
\nDTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250525T023000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250525T043000 LOCATION:Clonard Monastery\, Belfast SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:‘Raising Hope – Living Laudato Si’ Conference URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/raising-hope-living-laudato-si -conference/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/04/Laudato-Si-Goals-1-150x150.png\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www. downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Laudato-Si-Goals-1-300x280.pn g\;300\;280\;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/20 25/04/Laudato-Si-Goals-1.png\;900\;839\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18546@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250607T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250608T150000 LOCATION:St Oliver Plunkett Church @ Toome BT48 3PE SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Ablaze Pentecost Ireland URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/ablaze-pentecost-ireland/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/04/pentecost-poster-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.do wnandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pentecost-poster-212x300.jpg\;2 12\;300\;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/0 4/pentecost-poster-724x1024.jpg\;724\;1024\;1\,full\;https://www.downandco nnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/pentecost-poster.jpg\;1131\;1600\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18634@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
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Churches Together Pentecost Service
\nSunday 8th June at 4.30pm
\nClonard Monastery\, Belfast
\nPreacher: Rev Danielle McCullagh (Chaplain\, Q.U.B)
\n\n
As we celebrate 1700 years of the Council of Nicaea\, our theme is ‘The Spirit of Unity’.
\nEveryone is welcome.< /p> DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250608T163000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250608T173000 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Churches Together Pentecost Service URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/churches-pentecost-service/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/05/Churches-Together-Pentecost-2025-advert-150x150.jpeg\;150\;150\;1 \,medium\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Churche s-Together-Pentecost-2025-advert-300x169.jpeg\;300\;169\;1\,large\;https:/ /www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Churches-Together-Pentec ost-2025-advert.jpeg\;720\;405\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18669@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
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Hearts on Fire
In this Jubilee Year of Hope\, the Diocese of Down and Con nor will host a special two-day gathering of parish leaders from across ou r parish families\, and extending throughout Ireland and beyond on 25 and 26 June in Belfast. Focused on renewing our vision for evangelisation\, < em>Hearts on Fire will invite parish leaders to explore ways to inspi re and equip Families of Parishes to reignite the Church’s missionary spir it.
\nWe warmly invite all to join us in prayer at the opening Mass for Hearts on Fire in St Pe ter’s Cathedral\, Belfast\, at 7:00pm on Tuesday\, 24 June 2025.< /p>\n
We deeply value and appreciate your prayers for the success of this important time of sharing and discernment. May the Holy Spirit reignite the hearts of the faithful\, embolden our wi tness and guide the renewal and growth of our Church in Down and Connor an d across Ireland.
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250624T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250624T200000 LOCATION:St Peter's Cathedral\, Belfast SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Hearts on Fire – A Call to Prayer and Renewal URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/hearts-fire-call-prayer-renewa l/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/06/Hearts-on-Fire-2-1-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www. downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Hearts-on-Fire-2-1-300x143.jp g\;300\;143\;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/20 25/06/Hearts-on-Fire-2-1.jpg\;928\;442\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18698@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
\n< p>
\nRemembering Srebrenica Genocide 30th Anniversary Interfaith Walk
\nSunday 6 July\, gathering at 1.45pm at the NI Muslim Family Association (7 Rugby Rd\, BT7 1PS) leaving there at 2pm\, stopping midway at St Malachy’s Parish (24 Alfred St)\, and finishing around 3.15pm at the Belfast Islamic Centre (13-19 University R d\, BT7 1NA).
\nAll welcome.
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250706T134500 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Remembering Srebrenica Genocide 30th Anniversary Interfaith Walk URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/remembering-srebrenica-genocid e-30th-anniversary-interfaith-walk/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/07/Picture1-150x150.png\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downandcon nor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Picture1-300x278.png\;300\;278\;1\,larg e\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Picture1.png\; 470\;435\; X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18735@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
Viator es Christi was founded in Dublin in 1960 and since then has sent over 2000 lay missionary volunteers overseas to share their skills\, knowledge and enthusiasm.
\nOur roles are varied\, b ased on the need identified by our overseas partners. Examples of areas w e have worked in include education\, agriculture\, social work\, law\, he althcare\, ICT\, pastor roles and project support.
\nSat 26th July 2025\, 2.00 to 4.00 pm< /p>\n
Viatores christi House\, 8 New Cabra Road\, Phibsboro\, Dublin D07T1W 2
\nFor further information email sally@vi atoreschristi.com or < em>Phone 00 353 87 2745422
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250726T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250726T160000 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Viatores Christi – Volunteers Needed Overseas – Information Session URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/viatores-christi-volunteers-ne eded-overseas-information-session/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/07/Picture1-1.png\;121\;102\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18701@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
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The diocesan pil grimage to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes\, Moneyglass\, will take place on Sunday 10th August at 3pm.
\nBeginning at St. Ergnats GAA Taylorstown Road\, the pilgrimage will make its way to the National Sh rine in the parish of Duneane and will conclude with Benediction and light refreshments.
\nAll are welcome.
\nDTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250810T150000 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Diocesan Pilgrimage to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes\, Moneyglass URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/diocesan-pilgrimage-national-s hrine-lady-lourdes-moneyglass/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-04-113834-150x150.png\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;ht tps://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07- 04-113834-212x300.png\;212\;300\;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/w p-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-04-113834-724x1024.png\;724\; 1024\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Sc reenshot-2025-07-04-113834.png\;827\;1170\; X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18821@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
\n
Sunday 28th September at 7pm
\nSaint Vincent de Paul Parish
\nAll welcome.
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20250928T190000 LOCATION:St Vincent de Paul Parish @ 171 Ligoniel Road\, Belfast\, BT14 8DP SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Mass and Blessing with Relic of St. Padre Pio URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/mass-blessing-relic-st-padre-p io/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/09/Padre-Pio-1-150x150.png\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downand connor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Padre-Pio-1-205x300.png\;205\;300\;1 \,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Padre-Pi o-1.png\;492\;720\; X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18868@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:From Lament to Liberation
\nIn Conversation with Rev. Ashraf Tannous of the Lutheran Christmas Church in Bethlehem
\nTuesday\, 21 October at 7.30pm in Knock Methodist Church (Belf ast\, BT5 6HS)
\nCome and hear Rev. Ashraf’s Palesti nian Christian perspective in light of October 7th 2023\, the genocide in Gaza these past two years\, settlement expansion and annexations in the We st Bank\, and the recent ceasefire and peace plan. All are welcome.
\nOrganised by Kairos Ireland.
\nDTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20251021T193000 LOCATION:Knock Methodist Church @ Belfast\, BT5 6HS SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:From Lament to Liberation – Conversation with Rev. Ashraf Tannous ( Lutheran Church in Bethlehem) URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/lament-liberation-conversation -rev-ashraf-tannous-lutheran-church-bethlehem/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18916@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
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About the Event:
\nLet’s Step Up is a joyful celebration o f faith — a day filled with music\, fellowship\, and worship. It’s an invi tation to take one more step closer to Jesus\, deepening our relationship with Him through prayer and community.
\nWord of God:
\n“For to this you have been called\, because Christ also suffered
for you\, leaving you an example\, that you should follow in his steps.”<
br />\n— 1 Peter 2:21
Organised by Jesus Youth Northern Ir eland
\nJesus Youth is an International Catholic Missionary Movement approved by the Holy See\, committed for serving the Church and evangelizing through personal witness and community life.
\n
Mission:
\nTo bring youth and young families closer to Jesus
and help them grow as His disciples.
Contact:
\nMelbin George Manjapallil – Regional Coordinator\, Jesus Youth NI – 0
7796 500297
\nIsona Joseph– Assistant Regional Coordinator\, Jesus Yo
uth NI – 07732 916536
Registration Form:
\n
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20251206T090000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20251206T170000 LOCATION:St. Anne’s Parish Centre\, Kingsway\, Belfast\, BT10 0NE SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Let’s Step Up – Faith Encounter for Youth and Young Families URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/step-faith-encounter-youth-you ng-families/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/11/Step-Up-1-150x150.png\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downandco nnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Step-Up-1-213x300.png\;213\;300\;1\,la rge\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Step-Up-1.pn g\;510\;720\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18974@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
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You are warmly invited to join the Black Mountain fa mily of parishes here at St Oliver Plunkett Parish\, Glenveagh Drive\, Bel fast this New Years Eve.
\nWe will be bringing in the New Year with the Lord and welcoming 2026 together as a faith community.
\nThere will be Mass starting at 11pm and we will conclude in the Parish hall afte rwards for a few nibbles and a Toast to the New Year.
\nWe look forw ard to seeing you there and bringing in 2026 with the promise of spending time with the Lord this more this coming year.
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20251231T230000 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:New Year’s Eve Mass in St Oliver Plunkett Parish URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/years-eve-mass-st-oliver-plunk ett-parish/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/12/NYE2025-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downandconn or.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/NYE2025-300x300.jpg\;300\;300\;1\,large\ ;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/NYE2025-1024x102 4.jpg\;1024\;1024\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploa ds/2025/12/NYE2025-scaled.jpg\;2560\;2560\; X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18991@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
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\n
THE CLOSE OF THE JUBILEE YEAR 2025
\nBishop Alan McGuckian w ill celebrate the Rite of the Closing of the Jubilee Year with Mas s at 3.00pm in St Peter’s Cathedral\, Belfast on Sunday 4th January 2026.< /strong> He would like to invite as many as possible\, from across the Di ocese\, to join him for the Mass and some refreshments afterwards in St Co mgall’s Centre. While the Jubilee Year of Hope will formally close\, the task ahead will be to carry it’s Message of Hope with us into the New Year 2026.
\nDTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20260104T150000 LOCATION:St Peter's Cathedral\, Belfast SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Close of the Jubilee of Hope Year 2025 URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/close-jubilee-hope-year-2025/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2024/12/Jubliee-2-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downandco nnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Jubliee-2-300x119.jpg\;300\;119\;1\,la rge\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Jubliee-2-10 24x405.jpg\;1024\;405\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/u ploads/2024/12/Jubliee-2.jpg\;1280\;506\; X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-18985@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
Following the impactful visit of Ch urch leaders to Lough Neagh in July 2025\, a moment that highlighted both the beauty of our shared natural heritage and the urgent ecological challe nges it faces\, the Irish Council of Churches and the Irish Inter Church M eeting invite you to “Let Justice Flow Like Rivers”\, a Creation Care Conf erence on Saturday 17th January 2026 in the Canal Court Hotel\, Newry (10.00am–3.30pm).
\nRooted in f aith\, justice and responsibility for creation\, this conference brings to gether theology\, science and lived experience to inspire concrete action for the care of our land and waters. With keynote contributions from Dr Ji m McAdam (agricultural and environmental research\, NI Government sector a nd Queen’s University Belfast)\, Dr Hilary Marlow (Girton College\, Cambri dge)\, Dr Gail Heffner (author of Reconciliation in a West Michigan Waters hed) and a rich presentation of local actions from church and community gr oups\, the day will inspire insight\, challenge and hope.
\nTickets (£10) are available via Eventbrite: https://letjustflow.eventbrite.ie
\nFurther info from: info@irishchurches.org
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20260117T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20260117T153000 LOCATION:Canal Court Hotel\, Newry SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Irish Inter Church Meeting Creation Care Conference URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/irish-inter-church-meeting-cre ation-care-conference/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2025/12/January-Conference-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www. downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/January-Conference-237x300.jp g\;237\;300\;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/20 25/12/January-Conference-809x1024.jpg\;809\;1024\;1\,full\;https://www.dow nandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/January-Conference.jpg\;936\;118 5\; END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-19066@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
\n
Day of Prayer for Survivors and Victims of Abuse (Click link fo r NSBCCCI Resources)
\nIn Ireland\, a Day of Prayer for Victims and Survivors of Abuse is ma rked each year on the Friday immediately following Ash Wednesday. This yea r it will be marked across Ireland on Friday 20th Febru ary 2026.
\nThis day is not o nly for victims and survivors who have been so severely injured inside our Church\, but also for the families and communities affected by the pain a nd grief of their loved ones.
\n
Bish op Alan McGuckian SJ will celebrate Mass in St Peter’s Cathedral on
\nFriday 20th February 2026 at 6:00pm.
\nAll are invited to attend the Mass in St Peter’s Cathedral\ , particularly Chairs and members of Parish – Family of Parishes Safeguard ing Committees\, and join with Bishop Alan in praying for all those who ha ve been affected by abuse.
\n< /p>\n
“It is essential that we\, a s a Church\, be able to acknowledge and condemn\, with sorrow and shame\, the atrocities perpetrated by consecrated persons\, clerics\, and all thos e entrusted with the mission of watching over and caring for those most vu lnerable. Let us beg forgiveness for our own sins and the sins of others. An awareness of sin helps us to acknowledge the errors\, the crimes and th e wounds caused in the past and allows us\, in the present\, to be more op en and committed along a journey of renewed conversion”[1].
\n\n
Abuse happened within the Catholic Church in Ireland.
\nAbuse happened in our Diocese of Down and Connor.< /p>\n
\n
[1] Extract from th e Safeguarding Resource package prepared for the Day of Prayer for Victims and Survivors of Abuse 20th February 2026
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20260220T180000 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Day of Prayer for Survivors and Victims of Abuse URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/day-prayer-survivors-victims-a buse/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2024/01/Safeguarding-Logo-2-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www .downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Safeguarding-Logo-2-300x123. jpg\;300\;123\;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/ 2024/01/Safeguarding-Logo-2.jpg\;650\;266\; X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-19121@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:Saint Patrick’s Dawn Prayer Gatherings
\n\n
Christians from all denominations will gather at Saint Patrick’s grav e in Downpatrick at 5:45 am 17th March to pray The Our Father/ Lord’s Pra yer\, one hundred times for peace and unity in Christ.
\nEveryone w elcome.
\nPlease spread the word and consider organising a Saint Pat rick’s Dawn Prayer Gathering in your own area.
\nFor a straightforwa rd guide contact legacyofs aintpatrick@gmail.com
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20260317T054500 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Saint Patrick’s Dawn Prayer Gatherings URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/saint-patricks-dawn-prayer-gat herings/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-19212@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
Laudato Si’ Conference
\nA great opport unity to hear from Dr Lorna Gold\, Executive Director Laudato Si’\, and a lso to meet with Lorna in person. Join others who share a common interest in living more sustainably\; discuss actions that are being implemented and their impact\; explore bold alternatives to our economic system. Your presence and contribution is very welcome.
\n
WOR DS OF SPIRIT AND LIFE: An evening with Jeff Cavins
\nSunda y 26th July 2026\, 7pm Voco Hotel Belfast
\nSpend an inspiring eveni ng with Jeff Cavins\, the internationally renowned Bible teacher\, author\ , and creator of The Great Adventure Bible Timeline that shaped the hugely popular Bible in a Year podcast. Whether you’re a catechist\, a young adu lt\, or simply drawn to Scripture\, come to meet others who love the Word\ , share in a time of prayer led by Fr Conor McGrath\, and be reminded that the words of Jesus are Spirit and they are life.
\nRegister Online: https://tinyurl.com/5h483c83\n
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20260726T190000 SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Words of Spirit and Life – An evening with Jeff Cavins URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/words-spirit-life-evening-jeff -cavins/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2014/10/Bible-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;https://www.downandconnor .org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Bible-300x181.jpg\;300\;181\;1\,large\;htt ps://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Bible-1024x618.jpg\; 1024\;618\;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/ 10/Bible.jpg\;2139\;1293\; X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT UID:ai1ec-19352@www.downandconnor.org DTSTAMP:20260813T221446Z CATEGORIES: CONTACT: DESCRIPTION:
\n
Experience the soul of Ireland with Fuaimlaoi —a captivating ensemble that blends ancient Irish tradition with powerful sacred music by renowned Irish liturgical composer Ronan McDonagh< /strong>.
\nTheir rich harmonies\, lyrical beauty and authentic spir it create a deeply moving concert experience\, connecting audiences with I reland’s heritage\, faith and timeless song. This unforgettable performanc e is sure to be one of the highlights of the Fleadh Belfast Fringe programme.
\n🎟️ Tickets: £5.50
\nBoo
k now: https://fleadhfringe.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173683951
Don’t miss this special evening of music in the stunning surr oundings of St Peter’s Cathedral.
\n———————————————————————————————— –
\nJoin us for the inaugural Féile tours of St Peter’s Cathedral\, led by Stevie Corr\, as we celebrate its 160th anniversary!
\nOffici ally opened with great ceremony on 14 October 1866\, St Peter’s Cathedral\ , with its iconic twin spires\, has stood at the heart of West Belfast eve r since.
\nThis special guided tour offers a unique opportunity to e xplore areas of the Cathedral that are rich in history and significance\, including:
\nThe Chapel of the Resurrection\, where three Bishops of Down and Connor are laid to rest.
\nThe Sanctuary\, home to the Bis hop’s Cathedra (official seat).
\nThe Aumbry\, which houses the Holy Oils donated in memory of Fr Hugh Mullan and Fr Noel Fitzpatrick\, who lo st their lives while anointing the wounded during the Ballymurphy shooting s.
\nTour dates:
\nTickets: £5 per pe rson\, payable at the entrance (please bring the exact amount).
\nCo me and discover the history\, heritage\, and stories of one of Belfast’s m ost treasured landmarks.
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20260806T190000 LOCATION:St Peter's Cathedral\, Belfast SEQUENCE:0 SUMMARY:Fuaimlaoi in Concert URL:https://www.downandconnor.org/blog/event/fuaimlaoi-concert/ X-COST-TYPE:free X-WP-IMAGES-URL:thumbnail\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads /2026/07/Were-part-of-the-Fleadh-SM-150x150.jpg\;150\;150\;1\,medium\;http s://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Were-part-of-the-Flea dh-SM-300x300.jpg\;300\;300\;1\,large\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-co ntent/uploads/2026/07/Were-part-of-the-Fleadh-SM-1024x1024.jpg\;1024\;1024 \;1\,full\;https://www.downandconnor.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Were-p art-of-the-Fleadh-SM.jpg\;1080\;1080\; X-INSTANT-EVENT:1 END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR
