Prayer

Advent Prayer by Henri Nouwen

Lord Jesus, Master of both the light and the darkness,

send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.

We who have so much to do seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day.

We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.

We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom.

We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence.

We are your people,

walking in darkness,

yet seeking the light.

To you we say, “Come Lord Jesus!”

Christmas Eve Prayer

Loving Father,

Help us remember the birth of Jesus,

that we may share in the song of the angels,

the gladness of the shepherds,

and worship of the wise men.

Close the door of hate

and open the door of love all over the world.

Let kindness come with every gift

and good desires with every greeting.

Deliver us from evil by the blessing

which Christ brings,

and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.

May the Christmas morning

make us happy to be your children,

and Christmas evening bring us to our beds

with grateful thoughts,

forgiving and forgiven,

for Jesus’ sake.

Amen.

Firstly I would like to thank all those who contributed to the Vinnies Christmas appeal this year. The amount of donations was impressive and Vinnies are certainly very grateful for the ongoing support that Kildare has given each year to the Christmas appeal. These items will assist many families in need for whatever reason, to celebrate the Christmas season with dignity and joy. 

Our End of Year Mass was a fitting way to bring a close to 2023. Thanks to all those who helped with the mass in any way including the musicians and readers. Gathering as a school community to celebrate mass is one of the key actions that makes us different from the local state schools. It clearly marks out our Catholic identity as an institution and continues on the legacy and sacrifices made by the Christian Brothers and Presentation Sisters who established our school. 

We would also like to thank and acknowledge Fr Sean Byrnes the Administrator of the Cathedral who has been our chaplain this year. His support of the College and willingness to make himself available for us as much as possible is much appreciated. Fr Sean certainly has delivered many homilies this year that have connected in a real way to the reality of most people's lived experience. For that we are truly grateful. 

With the Christmas season upon us I would like to wish all the students, families and friends of Kildare Catholic College a Happy and Holy Christmas. Let the feast of the Birth of Our Lord be an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones and also to reflect on the great love of Our God for each one of us. Christmas is a time when we can all stop and be thankful for what has been the past year both the joys and the challenges. Wishing you all blessings and good fortune for the New Year and 2024.

Kieran Udy | Leader Of Mission & Faith Formation.