An Abhainn

A Limerick City Parish Newsletter

Easter 2026 Vol 9 Issue 1

[Link]
anabhainnparish@[Link]
From the Dean
Dear Parishioners,
Something to think about…
The great gift of Easter is hope
Basil Hume
Reflection
During Holy Week I shall be reflecting on symbols mentioned in the appointed
readings for that week. As we journey to Easter Day all thoughts turn to the
ultimate symbol of Easter – the empty cross.
The empty cross stands at the heart of Christian hope. It reminds us that the
One who suffered there did not remain there. The cross is no longer only a
sign of suffering and sacrifice; it is a sign of victory.
The empty cross calls us to hold together both Good Friday and Easter
morning. It tells us that Christ truly entered human pain, bearing the weight
of sin and sorrow. Yet because the cross is empty, it also proclaims that death
did not have the final word.
When we look at the empty cross, we are invited to bring our own burdens
to Christ—our failures, griefs, and fears. The cross assures us that God meets
us in suffering. Its emptiness assures us that resurrection and new life are
always possible through God’s grace.
So, the empty cross becomes a quiet but powerful proclamation: Christ has
died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again. And in that truth, the Church
continues to live with hope.

Ordination
On Saturday 30th May at 4pm in the cathedral, the Rev’d Scott Elliott will be
ordained priest. This is a significant event in Scott’s life (indeed in the life of
any priest). I warmly encourage you to join us at this service to celebrate a
new chapter in ministry and to support Scott.

A happy and blessed Easter to you all,

With every blessing,

Niall
Dean & Rector
Jeanne
From the Editor

Dear All,

While the first signs of Spring are all around us and new colours are peeping
out amongst the dry winter leaves, we are also waiting with anticipation for
Christ’s resurrection and ascension, even if we are entering a period of
mourning leading up to the crucifixion.

You will notice that colour and its significance is a theme that runs throughout
this Easter edition of An Abhainn. In the last Christmas edition, it was very
much about starry nights and winter, whereas now, we are looking at the
sunrise, Eastern church windows, the relevance of colours in the church year
and new beginnings.

My wishes for one and all are new bright mornings, new beginnings and the
fulfilment of new promises.

Happy Easter and hope you’ll have many opportunities to celebrate the
colours of Spring and Summer.

Jeanne
The Ministry of a Deacon: A Year of Learning
And Service - By the Rev'd Scott E. Elliott
As I approach my ordination to the priesthood on 30 May 2026,
I find myself reflecting with gratitude on my time serving as a deacon over the past
year in Limerick. The diaconate is sometimes described as a transitional ministry,
yet it is far more than a step along the way. It is a year that offers a profound
opportunity to learn what it means to serve Christ and his people in practical,
pastoral, and spiritual ways.
This year, I have had the privilege of serving and getting to know the parishioners
of Limerick City Parish as their curate assistant. The year has been joyful, fun, and
spiritually invigorating, offering opportunities to preach, assist in the liturgy, and
become more involved in parish life in various outreach endeavours. Perhaps the
greatest privilege of serving as a deacon has been journeying alongside people
through the highs and lows of life, celebrating baptisms, book launches,
confirmations and offering support in times of illness, sorrow, or farewell.
A deacon’s ministry is fundamentally one of service, rooted in the Greek word
diakonia, reminding us that ordained ministry is not about status but about
attentiveness to the needs of others and faithfulness to the Gospel. Even as I
transition to the priesthood, I will never stop being a deacon, for that foundational
call to serve, to walk alongside others, and to embody Christ’s compassion remains
at the heart of all I do.
I am especially grateful to Dean Sloane for his patient guidance, wisdom, and
encouragement throughout this year. His mentorship has been invaluable in shaping
my understanding of ministry and helping me grow in confidence and faith. I am
also thankful to Bishop Burrows, my colleagues across the Diocese of Tuam,
Limerick, and Killaloe, and to the parishioners of Limerick City Parish for the warm
welcome, trust, and relationships that have made this year so meaningful.
As the day of priesting approaches, I carry forward the lessons of this year with
gratitude. The diaconate has been a time of formation, discovery, and deepening
faith. Above all, it has been a reminder that ministry is ultimately about walking
with others in the presence of God.

Scott
Facing the Rising Light: Direction, Symbolism, and the Body in
Christian Worship - By the Rev'd Scott E. Elliott
Christian worship has never been concerned solely with words. From the earliest
centuries of the Church, the faithful have understood that the body itself
participates in prayer. Posture, movement, and even direction have been used to
express theological truth. Among these practices, the ancient custom of turning
toward the east in prayer stands out as one of the most enduring and symbolically
rich traditions within the Christian liturgical heritage.
The practice of facing east, often described by the Latin phrase ad orientem, rests
upon several strands of biblical and theological symbolism. In Scripture, the east
is associated with light and renewal. The prophet in the Book of Malachi speaks
of the coming of the “sun of righteousness” who will rise with healing for the
people of God. Early Christians interpreted this image christologically,
understanding it as a poetic anticipation of Christ, who’s coming dispels the
darkness of sin and death.

This imagery is reinforced in the New Testament. In the Gospel attributed to

John the Evangelist, Christ declares himself to be “the light of the world.” This
statement resonated deeply with a community accustomed to seeing the rising
sun as the most immediate symbol of light overcoming darkness. For the early
Church, the rising sun served not as an object of devotion but as a powerful
natural sign pointing beyond itself to Christ’s redemptive work.
The association of the east with Christ was also shaped by eschatological hope.
In the Gospel according to Saint Matthew, the coming of the Son of Man is likened
to lightning that flashes from east to west. Such imagery led many early Christians
to associate the eastern horizon with the anticipated return of Christ. To pray
facing east was therefore to express a posture of expectation. The Church stood
watch for the coming kingdom.
These theological associations gradually found expression in the architecture and
orientation of Christian churches. Many historic churches were constructed with
the altar placed at the eastern end of the building. This arrangement enabled both
clergy and congregation to face the same direction during prayer and the
celebration of the Eucharist. In doing so, worshippers symbolically turned
together toward the source of light and toward the promise of Christ’s return.
The building itself became a kind of theological narrative, guiding the faithful from
entrance to altar along a symbolic path of redemption.
Within this symbolic geography, the west also held meaning. The western end of
the church, often the place of entry, was traditionally associated with the world
still marked by sin and darkness. In certain early baptismal rites the candidate
would first face west in order to renounce evil and the powers of darkness. Only
afterward would the candidate turn toward the east to profess faith in Christ,
often reciting the Nicene Creed. The act of turning physically from west to east
embodied the conversion of the Christian life. It represented a deliberate turning
away from darkness and toward the light of Christ.
Posture also played a role in this liturgical
symbolism. Prayer facing east was
commonly undertaken while standing, a
position traditionally associated with the
dignity of the resurrection and the hope
of new life. In some early Christian art and
practice, believers raised their hands in
the ancient orans posture, signifying
openness and receptivity before God. By contrast, the westward renunciation in
baptism was marked not by prayer but by rejection. It was a declaration that the
candidate was leaving behind the realm of darkness before turning toward the
light of faith.
Such practices remind us that Christian worship has always engaged the whole
person. Theology is not merely spoken but enacted. Direction, movement, and
posture become visible expressions of belief, enabling the faithful to inhabit the
story of salvation with both mind and body.
In contemporary Anglican worship, strict adherence to eastward orientation is
not always observed, particularly in churches designed according to more modern
architectural principles. Yet the underlying symbolism remains instructive. The
Church continues to confess Christ as the light who overcomes darkness and as
the one who will come again in glory. Whether through architecture, liturgy, or
the language of Scripture, Christians are invited to orient their lives toward that
light.
Ultimately, the ancient custom of facing east reminds us of a simple yet profound
truth. Christian worship is an act of hope. Each prayer, each creed, and each
gathering of the faithful expresses the Church’s enduring confidence that the light
of Christ continues to rise upon the world.
Eastern Windows in our Parish Churches

Saint Michael’s Church

Saint Mary’s Cathedral

Saints John and Ailbe, Abington

Easter Sunrise Sermon: Darkness into Light by Shannon Blosser
[Link]
light/
As we gathered this morning, there has been a cloud of darkness that has covered
us. The darkness is quite understandable. It is early in the morning. Sunrise today
is not scheduled for a few moments yet, so we are just now starting to see some
of the first glimpses of the light of a new day.
The darkness that surrounds us, and the
glimmer of light shining through, is appropriate
this morning. It allows us, I believe, to more fully
experience the joy of Easter morning. Today,
we gather to announce good news to the entire
world. Good news that Jesus Christ, our Lord
and Savior, is not dead! He is alive! Good news
that hope has won! Good news that joy is
victorious! Good news that darkness has been defeated by light!

However, it was darkness that described how the disciples entered that first
Easter morning. It is a darkness that does not just speak of the lack of light, but
the darkness of one’s soul and emotional state. Following Jesus’ death, the
followers of Christ were in deep despair over what they saw.
Just a few short days earlier, many of Jesus’ disciples
experienced what they believed was the tragic end of
his ministry. They had witnessed his betrayal from within.
They saw his unjust trial that led to a conviction on
charges he did not commit, which led to a punishment
he did not deserve. They saw him tortured, abused,
mocked, and, ultimately, killed on the cross. They
thought it was over and they were in pain, because they
believed that in Jesus was the One they had been waiting for.
The hours immediately preceding Jesus’ death were the darkest in human history.
No one knew what to expect or how to react. They didn’t know what would
happen. Would the Roman government and religious leaders come after them?
Were they next?
That Sunday morning began as a dark morning, but that didn’t stop their devotion
to the Lord. That is especially true for the women who went to the tomb to
further prepare Jesus’ body for his burial. John tells us the anointing process began
in Bethany, prior to his death, but in the rush to remove Jesus’ body before the
start of the Sabbath, the full anointment had likely not been completed. So, the
women head to the tomb to finish this task.
John doesn’t focus on all the women, but only Mary
Magdalene. She was the first to visit the tomb. She saw that
something had happened. The tomb’s stone had been
rolled away and Jesus was not there. Mary began to fear
that someone had stolen the body. Grave robbing was a
common crime in those days. She runs to report the
disappearance to Peter and John, who both immediately
head off to search the tomb for answers.
All three didn’t know what to expect that morning when they returned to the
tomb. In their darkness, we could assume that they figured the worst. Someone
had stolen the body and they would have to search for Jesus’ body. When they
arrived, Peter and John noticed that the grave clothes were there, tucked away
as if no longer needed. They left knowing that something amazing had happened.
Mary, however, stayed behind and was able to see it for her own eyes.
What was it that they saw that Easter morning? They saw the Light break into
the darkness.
Truly, as the light that is beginning to shine on us this morning, so was it the case
that Easter morning so long ago. Mary, Peter, and John were the first to witness
that the Light of the World had returned. Jesus is not dead. He is alive!
Today, we gather to celebrate the fact that death
could not keep our Lord. Easter is the celebration of
what took that gave the world hope. We do not
worship a Lord who is dead, but a Lord who is alive!
That is hope. We shout with joy of the Good News
of the resurrection.
Jesus‘ resurrection is the victory we need. It is the victory over sin. It is the victory
over the powers of evil. It is the victory over death. It is the victory over darkness.
What the resurrection does is replace all these things with the light of love. It is
a light that only comes through the living presence of Christ.
Christ is alive. His light is with us today. That is the good news of the resurrection.
No matter what darkness we face, Christ’s light is there. The darkness of our sin
is overcome by the light of Christ’s hope. The darkness of death is replaced by
the light of everlasting love with the Father, through faith in Christ, by the power
of the Holy Spirit. The darkness of this world is replaced by the world’s true light.
On this Easter morning, all of us face some kind of darkness in our lives. It could
be the darkness of family discord. It could be the darkness of personal struggles.
It could be the darkness of not having a relationship with the Lord in a deeply
personal way. Whatever darkness we face, the truth of the resurrection is this:
Christ’s light has broken through the darkness that this world has over us and
gives us an everlasting hope.
Mary, Peter, and John saw the light in their own ways that Easter morning. Peter
and John looked in the tomb and saw that Jesus was not there and left knowing
that something had happened. Mary saw it for herself. What about us? How will
we experience the Light this Easter?
In our darkness, we have gone to the tomb searching for what was. My prayer is
that we leave this encounter with the light that is with us, in us, and all around us.
That is the living Light that is Christ Jesus.
Darkness did not and will not win. Christ is alive! The Light is here! Glory to God
in the highest!
Who is who in our Parish
CONTACT DETAILS

• TheVery Rev’d Niall J.W. Sloane (Dean): The Deanery, 7 Kilbane, Castletroy
Email: dean@[Link] Tel: 061-338697 Day off: Friday

• The Rev’d Scott E. Elliott (Curate): The Curatage, 50 Ballinvoher, Fr Russell

Road, Dooradoyle
Email: curate@[Link] Mob: 0871951766 Day off: Monday

• Clergy Emergency Number: Tel: 087-3524046. (Strictly Emergency Calls

Only).

• The Parish Office: Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Bridge Street, Limerick, V94 E068.
Email: cathedral@[Link] Tel: 061-310293.

The Parish Panels (Safeguarding Trust) Responsibilities include:

- interviewing persons willing to serve as workers in the parish

- advising workers on their responsibilities in respect of the Code
- advising the Select Vestry in respect of its responsibilities

The Parish Panel Members are:

The Dean; The Curate; Ms Ros Stevenson; Mr Kieran Sparling

Who is who in our Parish: The Select Vestry
Churchwardens Rector’s People’s
Saint Mary’s Cathedral Jane Holmes Frank Sheahan
Saint Michael’s Church Richard Blennerhassett Richard Brickenden
Ss John & Ailbe, Abington Elizabeth Stanley Bertie Swanton

Glebewardens Brian Sheppard Victor Brown

Ordinary Members
Adrienne Baron, Lindsey Boyle, Margaret Brickenden, Bill Cullen, Susi Eckhardt,
Prof. Niamh Hourigan, Shawn Jamieson, Joe Lynam, Tracey Lyttle, Keith Morrow,
Ian Mulvey, Meghan Mulvey.

Hon. Secretary The Curate

Group Treasurer/Treasurer Saint Mary’s Cathedral Lynn Perkins

Hon. Treasurer St Michael’s Daire McNamara

Hon. Treasurer Ss John & Ailbe, Abington Felicity Roche

Parish News
From the Registers
Baptism
8th February 2026 (in Saint Mary’s Cathedral) – Gabriel Ishmael Orji

Sympathy
We offer our deepest sympathy to:

• Kay and the Bannister family of the death of her husband, David.
• Dan, Clive and the Lawless family on the death of Dan's mother, Nancy.
• the Davies’ family on the recent passing of Mark.
• our School secretary, Annette O'Neil, on the sudden death of her brother.
• the Rev'd Jackie McNair and his family on the death of his father, John.
• the family and friends of Fr Tom Ryan, sometime PP of Murroe and Boher
and a great support to the community in Abington.
• the family and friends of Elish Cooney following her tragic death at Abington.
• the family and friends of Jean Cooper
• the friends and family of Patricia Hadnett
• Anne Holmes and her family on the death of her mother.
• the family of Nick Griffin on the death of his niece.
• the Draper family on the death of Victor’s sister.

We hold them in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

Jean Cooper

Jean died in February with her funeral being held in the

Cathedral. So much of Jean’s life was overshadowed by
illness, but she managed to maintain a diverse range of
interests during her long illness – jigsaws, tapestry, knitting,
coin and stamp collecting. However, what outshone all
these is the significant number of pen pals she had
throughout the world. Despite having an illness that
hinders communication – Jean outmanoeuvred these
obstacles. A fitting legacy to a remarkable person.
Congratulations
We extend our congratulations to:
• Benedict and his family on the arrival of their baby boy.
• Our Curate, the Rev'd Scott E. Elliott who recently graduated from the
University of Dublin (T.C.D.) with a Masters in Theology
• Our former Bishop, the Rt Rev'd Edward Darling who recently celebrated
the 40th anniversary of his consecration as Bishop.
• Bishop Burrows and Claire Jackson on the birth of their first grandson,
Ruari.
• Ian and Megan Mulvey on the birth of their daughter, Violet. A little sister
for Cecily.
• Joe Lynam and his family on the birth of his grandson.

Every blessing to them all.

Dates for your diary

Ordination
Please note that the Rev’d Scott E. Elliott will be ordained to the Priesthood by
the Rt Rev’d Michael Burrows at Saint Mary’s Cathedral on Saturday 30th May
2026 at 4:00pm. All are welcome to attend
 Please keep an eye on social media pages and the weekly
newsletter for information about upcoming events
in the Cathedral and Parish.
***********

General news

World Day of Prayer

The annual ecumenical service was hosted this year by Limerick City Parish and
was held in Saint Michael’s Church. We are grateful to Margaret Schutz who has
been the parish representative on the organising committee of this event.

Hearts
The End-of-Life Care Committee at University Hospital, Limerick is appealing for
donations of knitted hearts to give to individuals and families who have lost a
loved one. If you are able to knit a heart, please bring it to the Dean, the Curate,
or the Parish Office. Thank you for your kindness and support. (See pattern later
in the magazine)
Small Hearts, Big Compassion: A Heartwarming Afternoon in
Limerick
On a peaceful afternoon, inside Saint Mary's Cathedral, a quiet but very
meaningful act of kindness unfolded. On Sunday 1st March the Cathedral
welcomed a group of knitters who gathered with one purpose: to create small
handmade hearts for people experiencing bereavement.
The Dean of Limerick, the Very Rev’d Niall J. W. Sloane, together with the Curate
Assistant, the Rev’d Scott E. Elliott, warmly greeted the knitting group and
expressed their joy at seeing the Cathedral become a place not only of worship
but also of compassionate service.
Throughout the afternoon, volunteers worked carefully and lovingly, knitting
small hearts that will be given to families who have lost loved ones. Though simple
in appearance, each heart carries a powerful message, a tangible reminder that
they are not alone, and that they are held in the prayers and care of the
community.
This thoughtful initiative is supported by the End of Life Committee at University
Hospital Limerick, whose ongoing dedication to supporting families during life’s
most difficult moments is deeply appreciated.
The response to the Cathedral’s call for help has been overwhelming. Volunteers
generously offered their time and skills, preparing materials and welcoming
participants, while members of Limerick Craft Meet Up joined the gathering and
helped make the afternoon especially memorable.
In a world that often feels hurried and distant, the quiet rhythm of knitting needles
in the Cathedral created something extraordinary, a moment of community,
compassion, and hope.
Small hearts, made with great love.
Mission Sunday

The 8th of March was Mission Sunday

and this year the Diocesan Council
for Mission is supporting the work of
the bishop's peregrinations. Thank
you for your support.

The Bishop’s
Peregrination:
In Limerick….

Abington
Easter General Vestry
The Easter General Vestry will be held in person at Abington Church on Monday
20th April at 7:30pm. Only Registered Vestry Members are eligible to vote in and
be nominated in the elections. Contact the Dean (Chair) or the Curate (Hon.
Secretary) for any further enquiries.

Dialogue of Friendship - Bookings open

Dialogue of Friendship event on Saturday 16 May, at Dundrum Methodist Church
in Dublin. The theme is ‘Faithfully Caring for Creation’ and the keynote speaker
is the Revd David Coleman. Further details and online booking:
[Link]
creation-tickets-1979854887264?aff=oddtdtcreator

The Commission on Ministry

Is organising two Church Growth Conferences in 2026, offering a balanced and
varied perspective on the theme of Church Growth. Please note these important
dates: Saturday 18 April 2026 at the Stormont Hotel, Belfast, and Saturday 25
April 2026 at the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin. If you are interested in
attending, please contact the Dean.

Mothers’ Union (Update from Lucy)

I would like to sincerely thank all those who have donated to our hamper appeal.
We are delivering gifts and a hamper to Thomond House, a hamper and children's
clothing to Adapt House and a hamper and clothing to Br. Russell House. Your
generosity is greatly appreciated, thank you!
Ministry of Healing Prayer Group
This is a means to:

- consider that in the world which needs prayer,

- to reflect on Scripture,
- provide a prayer tree, accepting requests from our congregation and the
public, which will be prayed for.

All are welcome to attend, pray, and be part of our Ministry of Healing prayer
group, which meets monthly on a Thursday in the Cathedral. Next meeting date
will be published in the weekly newsletter.

Food Donation Box

A food donation box has been placed by the Clancy Bench inside the Cathedral.
The clergy are appealing for donations of imperishable food items such as cereals,
pasta and canned goods etc. Donations will support the work of Limerick Island
Community Partners.

Church giving
There are many ways in which you can support your church and parish – time,
talents, prayers, treasures. For those interested in supporting financially, there
are a number of ways to do this, please speak with a church treasurer or a
member of the clergy to find out more.
Dea Scéala

The new diocesan magazine is now available free of charge

in all of our church buildings, it may also be
viewed online at [Link]/3d-flip-book/dea-sceala/

Alone

ALONE is a national organisation that enables older people to age at home.

“We at ALONE work with all older people,

including those who are lonely, isolated, frail or ill,
homeless, living in poverty, or are facing other
difficulties. We provide an integrated system
of Support Coordination, Practical
Supports, Support & Befriending, a variety of Phone
Services, Social Prescribing, Housing with Support,
and assistive technology.”

Gazette

The Select Vestry has agreed to support the Church of Ireland

Gazette by purchasing 3 subscriptions (one for each church). A
copy will be left in each church for parishioners to read and
pass around. This initiative is designed to encourage people to
take out their own personal subscription.

Contact details
Has your email address changed?
Are you new to the Parish?
Would you like to receive news from the Parish and / or an electronic copy of
An Abhainn?
If you would like to update your contact details please email:
limerickcityparishnews@[Link] and Anabhainparish@[Link]
Livestreaming
Log onto:
[Link]/limerickstmarys

Services will be on air at 11.15am on Sundays

and 10.30am on Thursdays.

Parish Archives
We are looking for any photos, information or historical artefacts relating to
any of the churches in Limerick City Parish. If you have any such records,
please contact the Dean.

Limerick City Parish Eco-Theology Group: Keep an eye on the notice

board in the Church on news and updates

Limerick City Parish is helping the environment and

supporting a great cause – "Batteries for
Barretstown." Recycling tubes for your used
batteries can be found in each of the three churches.
Get collecting and drop them in!

Barnardos Postage Stamps:

I have once again left a large consignment of used postage
stamps into the Barnardos offices near Christ Church Cathedral
in Dublin. They were very gratefully received. Please continue to
collect and cause the stamps to be left in the Cathedral Office!
Many thanks, from Claire Jackson.

Readers & Intercessors: If you would be interested in reading at services

and/or leading the Prayers of the People at Parish Communion once a month
please speak to a member of the Clergy.

Hospital Visiting:
The Clergy would appreciate being told if parishioners are in hospital, going into
hospital, are being transferred or if they have been discharged, and will be
pleased to offer pastoral support. A selection of prayers is available from them
or in the Church porches.
Cumann Gaeilge na hEaglaise/The Irish Guild of the Church:
Anyone interested in the Irish language and its role
within the life of the Church of Ireland is invited to
speak with a member of the Clergy team.

Thursdays in Black: Resistance and Resilience:

The campaign is simple but profound. Wear black on
Thursdays - declare you are part of the global movement
resisting attitudes and practices that permit rape and
violence. Show your respect for women who are resilient
in the face of injustice and violence. Encourage others to
join you. Often black has been used with negative racial
connotations. In this campaign Black is used as a colour of
resistance and resilience.

Considering Marriage? Weddings are very special occasions in the

life of any family and in the life of the church. When considering getting
married please check possible dates with the Rector before confirming
arrangements. It is expected that couples will make a regular
commitment to the life of the church in preparation for marriage.

St Michael’s Hall
For booking enquiries, please contact the
Hall Manager, Oliver Deegan.
Children & Youth
Children’s Ministry
We are grateful to the leaders of our Sunday Club who have organised a wide
range of events and activities for the coming months. Children who wish to
remain in church can avail of the Children’s packs at the back of the church and/or
follow along in our Parish Communion services with the ‘I can join in the Holy
Communion Service’ booklets.
Children are always welcome at our services and junior activities!

Sunday School
Will meet in the Cathedral on the 3rd Sunday.
Godly play will run in Abington on the 2nd and 4th Sundays. All children of primary
school age and under are very welcome to attend. If any post primary children
would be willing to help out with children’s activities, please speak with the Dean.

St Mary's Sunday Club:

St Mary's Sunday Club is open to Primary School going children, whose carers are
attending the 11.15 service in the Cathedral. Pre-school children are welcome if
they are accompanied by an adult carer. Likewise, post primary school students
are welcome to assist.

Gatherings take place in the vestry during the

service, with children leaving during the first
hymn and returning to join their families at the
altar rails.
Normally on the First and Third Sunday of the month with appropriate breaks
during school holidays. The first Sunday normally takes the form of Godly Play
Sunday Club, members regularly contribute to the liturgy and to the hospitality
after the service.

Sunday Club Cinema Trip:

St Nicholas Day was the perfect date for last year's cinema trip! The film that was
shown in the Castletroy Cinema was after all Arthur's Christmas. A heartwarming
story which truly entranced its audience!

The Sunday Club is greatly indebted to the parish for funding its activities.
Saint Michael’s National School:
The Clergy are delighted to lead weekly assemblies in our Parish school and we
are looking forward to the upcoming events in the school.

Saint Michael’s National School Applications:

Please note applications for enrolment (2026/27) are now open. Please contact
Saint Michael’s National School for further details on the application process.
News from St Michael’s
Fundraising Saint Michael’s Church
As referenced in the Building Works presentation at the end of
September 2025, we need to raise funds for the painting of the church.
Approx. €30k needs to be raised by Easter 2026.

Donations can be made via:

• Church Wardens, The Dean or Daire, our Treasurer (Cash, Cheque or bank transfer)
• Any email queries can be directed to dean@[Link] or [Link]@[Link]
• Donations can also be made directly to ‘St Michael’s Church Fund’
IBAN IE91BOF190430915393230.
Please add narrative: Person Name followed by ‘Painting’
e.g. Joe Bloggs – Painting

• PLEASE – Spread the word. Let anyone who you think would be
interested in donating know about the painting fundraising.

I wish to make the enclosed donation towards the Painting Fund Raising
Name: __________________________

Amount: _________________________

Method: _________________________ (Cash, Cheque, Bank transfer)

“Love Your Neighbour”

We are inviting parishioners to support a new Donation Box in Saint Michael’s

Church aiding the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Donate non-perishable foods
and essential toiletries. Each gift helps a neighbour in need and makes Christ’s
command to love one another visible in our community.
News from the Cathedral
Cathedral Booklet:
On January 25th the newly published Saint Mary’s Cathedral souvenir book was
launched. The Dean thanks the book’s editor, Ros Stevenson, along with the
collaborators and Jenny McKinley from Kulturalis for their hard work on this
wonderful project. The book is now available to purchase in the cathedral shop
at a cost of €10.00.
Candelabra cleaning:
On February 21st, throughout the morning and afternoon, wonderful volunteers
gathered from across Limerick City Parish to carefully clean and polish the
Cathedral’s candelabras. This time, care, and dedication help keep our beautiful
Cathedral shining brightly for all who visit and worship here. Thank you to
everyone who helped out!
Community Awards:
In early February, the Dean was pleased to welcome guests to Saint Mary’s
Cathedral on for the Community Awards presentations, which took place
immediately after Choral Evensong.
Dean Sloane was joined by John Moran, (Mayor of Limerick), Helen O’Donnell
(Limerick Tidy Towns), and Dermot Nestor (Mary Immaculate College) to
present the awards.
Those recognised for their outstanding contribution to the city were Mr Randel
Hodkinson, Mr Robbie Kenneally and Mr Jim McNamara.
Colouring as Prayer: Finding Stillness in Sacred Spaces
Prayer within the Christian tradition takes many forms. While intercessions,
petitions, thanksgivings and silence are perhaps the most familiar expressions, the
Church has long recognised that prayer may also arise through creative and
contemplative practices. In recent weeks at Saint Mary's Cathedral, one such
practice has quietly taken root through the introduction of the Sacred Spaces
Colouring Book. What may appear at first to be a simple activity has, for many,
become an unexpected doorway into prayerful reflection.
Colouring invites a slower and more attentive way of being. In an age often
characterised by noise and haste, the deliberate act of filling a pattern or sacred
image with colour encourages stillness. The mind gradually settles, distractions
recede, and the individual becomes present to the moment. Within that stillness,
many discover that prayer emerges naturally. The gentle rhythm of colouring can
create a space in which the heart becomes attentive to God.
This approach resonates with older Christian traditions of contemplation.
Monastic communities, for example, have long practised meditative engagement
with sacred texts and images. The slow copying of manuscripts, the illumination
of letters, and the careful crafting of icons were not merely artistic tasks but acts
of devotion. In a similar spirit, colouring sacred patterns or images allows
participants to engage visually and creatively with themes of faith.
For some, colouring becomes a quiet meditation on the beauty of creation.
Colours themselves evoke elements of the natural world, from the deep blues of
the sky to the warm gold of sunlight. For others, the images contained within the
Sacred Spaces Colouring Book prompt reflection on the architecture and symbolism
of the cathedral itself. As the patterns gradually take shape, participants often find
themselves contemplating the sacred spaces in which they worship.
Perhaps the most valuable aspect of colouring as prayer is its accessibility. It
requires no particular expertise in theology or art. Children and adults alike can
participate, each engaging at their own pace. In this way, a simple colouring page
becomes an invitation to pause, to reflect, and to encounter God in quiet
creativity.
Within the life of the Church, such small practices can nurture a deeper
awareness of the sacred. Through something as simple as colour and pattern, the
faithful are reminded that prayer can take many forms, and that even the most
ordinary actions may become moments of grace.
 Advent – Violet
Christmas – White
Epiphany – Green
Lent – Violet
Holy Week – Violet or Red
Easter – White
Ascension – White
Pentecost – Red
Trinity - Green
The Church “colour codes” each season and festival of its year. Purple:
Penitential (preparation), used during seasons when Christians examine their
lives, remember their sins and need for forgiveness. White: Purity and used
for joyful festivals. Green: Growth, used when Christians try to grow in faith.
Red: Blood and Fire: Used on days Christians celebrate the lives of Saints
who died for their faith and on the day marking the coming of the Holy Spirit.
Also for Confirmation, Ordination and Healing when we think of the gift of
the Holy Spirit.
For the Children…
Clue ideas for your Easter Egg Hunt
Easter Recipes
Butterflied Leg of Lamb with Bay Leaves and Balsamic Vinegar

Ingredients
Serves: 8
• 1½ kilograms boned and butterflied leg of lamb
• 6 fresh bay leaves (snipped)
• 2 teaspoons Maldon Sea salt flakes (to taste)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic (peeled and sliced finely)
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C Fan/425°F/gas mark 7. Get out a
shallow but sturdy roasting tin and put the butterflied leg of lamb in it,
skin-side down.
2. Scatter with the snipped bay leaves and half the salt and pour the oil and
vinegar over the lamb, then push the garlic slices into crevices where you
can and lay the rest on top. Leave to marinate just until the lamb gets to
room temperature.
3. Turn the lamb over, so it is now skin side up, sprinkle with the remaining
salt flakes and roast in the hot oven for 30 minutes.
4. Remove from the oven, tent with foil, and let it stand for 15 minutes: this
will give you lusciously pink lamb; if you want the meat slightly less pink,
then let it stand, under its foil, for 30 minutes
Roast Pumpkin, Spinach and Feta Salad
Ingredients
Pumpkin:
• 600 g / 1.2 lb pumpkin (after peeling), cut into 3cm / 1.25″ cubes (Note 1)
• 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
Dressing:
• 2.5 tbsp / 50 ml extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper
Salad:
• 1/4 cup / 35g pine nuts (Note 2)
• 150 g / 5 oz baby spinach leaves (4 handfuls)
• 60 g / 2 oz feta , crumbled (or more!!)

Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 220C/430F (standard) or 200C/390F (fan/convection).
2. Toss pumpkin with olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread on baking tray, bake for 20 minutes.
Remove from oven, flip, then bake for a further 7 – 10 minutes until golden but not mushy.
(Note 3) Loosen pumpkin (it can adhere as it cools), then if serving salad at room
temperature, leave to cool.
3. Shake Dressing in a jar. Taste and adjust to taste.
4. Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until light golden and it smells nutty.
Remove pine nuts from skillet as soon as it’s ready.
5. Place Spinach in a bowl. Drizzle with a bit of dressing then toss.
6. Add pumpkin, just a bit of feta and pine nuts, then GENTLY BRIEFLY toss just to
disperse the feta. (If you toss vigorously, the feta can make it look messy).
7. Transfer to serving plate. Sprinkle over remaining feta and pine nuts. Just before serving,
drizzle with remaining dressing (dressing doesn’t stay on baby spinach well, so worth
drizzling at end). Serve!

Recipe Notes:
1. You can use any pumpkin or squash for this recipe.
2. Pine nuts are expensive but worth using in this recipe, it’s the perfect finishing touch
However, you can sub with any other nuts of choice. Chopped almonds and macadamias
are great.
3. Pumpkin turns to mush if baked for too long. It should be tender with a nice golden
surface on at least 2 sides (i.e. the sides that were in contact with the tray during baking).
And also, loosen pumpkin from tray using a spatula when you take it out of the oven – if
you don’t do this while hot, it might stick to the tray.
Easter muffins (Quick and Easy if you don’t have time for yeast-based
recipes)

Ingredients
350g self-raising flour
½ t baking soda
2t mixed spice
1 t cinnamon
125 ml oil
200ml buttermilk or full fat yoghurt
2 eggs
175g caster sugar
225g mixed dry fruit
40g cake flour
100g apricot jam or marmalade

Method:
1. Pre heat the oven to 200 degrees C.
2. Line a 12-hole muffin pan
3. Sift the flour, baking soda, mixed spice, and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sunflower oil, buttermilk, eggs, and
caster sugar.
5. Add the wet mix to the dry ingredients and stir until just mixed
6. Fold in the dried fruit.
7. Divide into the muffin pan.
8. Mix the cake flour with 3 to 4 tablespoons of water to form a thick paste.
Scoop into a small plastic bag and cut a 5mm opening in one corner and add
a cross on top of each muffin.
9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the muffins are light brown.
10. Cool down slightly.
11. Warm the jam and brush over the warm muffins.
Softest Fluffiest Hot Cross Buns Ever (Tang Zhong method) (A bit
more work but delicious)

PREP: 20 minutes PROOF THE DOUGH TWICE: 2 hours COOK: 20 minutes

Ingredients:
Roux Starter (Tang Zhong method):
• 15 gr bread flour
• 90 ml whole milk

Dry Ingredients:
• 300 gr bread flour
• 5 gr instant yeast
• 5 gr milk powder
• 80 gr raisins optional
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 Tbsp (30ml) sugar

Spices:
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
Wet ingredients:
• 120 ml whole milk
• 1 egg about 50 gr lightly beaten

Ingredient to add last to the dough

• 40 gr butter softened

Egg Wash
• 1 egg beaten
• 1 tsp water

Hot Cross Paste:

• 20 g all-purpose flour
• 7 g oil
• 20 g milk

Glaze:
• 1 Tbsp apricot jam or any jam of your choice
• 2 tsp water
Instructions
Prepare the Tang Zhong:

• Place milk and the bread flour in a small saucepan.

• Whisk until there is no more lumps. Cook this mixture
over low-medium heat until it reaches 65 C (149 F).
• Remove from the heat and cover with a plastic wrap, touching the tang zhong
so the skin won't form. Can be made the day before and kept in the fridge.

Make the dough:

1. Mix all the dry ingredients together in a mixing bowl. Make a well in the
centre and pour in the wet ingredients and the tang zhong you made earlier.
Use a dough hook attachment to knead the dough until all the crumbly
dough starts to come together into one mass, it may take about 2-3 minutes
for this to happen. Don't be tempted to add any liquid. You may need to
stop halfway and scrap the dough off the hook and the sides of the bowl and
knead again several times.
2. Once it comes into a dough, stop the machine. Then add the salt and sugar
into the dough. Continue to knead until the dough is relatively smooth. You
need to stop and scrape the dough off the hook and the bowl several times
during this process.
3. Once you have a smooth dough increase speed to 4. Gradually add in the
softened butter a bit by a bit. The dough will turn into a REAL sticky mess
again because of the butter, just keep kneading and stop halfway and scrape
the dough off the hook and bowl again and continue to knead until the butter
is absorbed by the dough. IT WILL HAPPEN, don't worry! DO NOT be
tempted to add any extra flour. You will get a shiny smooth dough that is
very elastic. This may take about 10 minutes on speed 4. The dough must
pass a windowpane test, meaning, when you stretch a small amount of dough
thinly, it won't break and a light can pass through.

1st Proofing:

Place this dough in a lightly oiled large bowl, cover it

with a clean and damp tea cloth or plastic wrap and
let it rise at a warm place for about 1 hour. It may not
double in size, but it will puff up some for sure.
 Shaping:

• Punch the dough down and knead in the spices. Then divide into 12 balls. Pull
and tuck the dough to form a smooth round ball with the seams tucked
underneath. Place the seam side down on a baking pan lined with parchment
paper and repeat with the rest of the dough. Arrange them about 1/2 inch
apart. They will touch each other after proofing and become like pull-apart
buns. If you place them a bit farther then they won't touch each other, it's up
to you. Cover with a plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.

2nd Proofing:

• Let the dough proof again for another 45 minutes to 1hour or

until they puff up again to about 50% or more of their original size.

Prepare the Hot Cross Paste:

• While waiting for the buns to proof for the second time, preheat oven to 350
F (180 C). Mix the flour with milk (you can use water too). The consistency
will be thick but pipeable or drizzle-able without being too runny. Transfer to
a plastic bag or piping bag. If you make the paste runnier, you can use a small
spoon to draw the cross on the buns.
• If using a piping bag, snip off the pointy end with scissors and draw a cross on
the buns after the egg wash.

Prepare the Glaze:

• Mix the jam with water and set aside

Baking:

• Pop the dressed buns into the oven, middle rack and let them bake for the
next 20-22 minutes depending on the oven. It will be golden brown on top
and internal temperature is 190 F (88C). Remove from the oven and let them
cool down for a minute or two and then lift the parchment paper up and put
on top of cooling rack. Brush with the glaze while they are still warm.

Storing:

• They can be kept at room temperature for 2-3 days or be frozen when
completely cold.
Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake
This lemon blueberry layer cake is bursting with sunshine-sweet flavour and filled with
juicy berries in every bite. Finished with a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting, this is
a delightfully fresh and luscious dessert that’s perfect for spring and summertime.
Ingredients
•1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 and 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar

• 6 Tablespoons (90ml) vegetable oil

• 4 large eggs, at room temperature

• 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 3/4 cup (180ml) buttermilk, room temperature

• 2 Tablespoons lemon zest

• 1/2 cup (120ml) lemon juice (3–4 lemons), room temperature

• 1 and 1/2 cups (210g) fresh blueberries (not frozen)

• 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 3 and 1/2 cups (420g) icing sugar
• 1 Tablespoon (15ml) double cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• pinch salt

Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease three 8-inch tins and line with
parchment paper rounds, then grease the parchment paper. Parchment
paper helps the cakes seamlessly release from the pans.
2. Make the cake: Using a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment,
beat the butter on high until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute. Add
granulated and brown sugars and beat on medium-high speed until
combined, about 2 minutes. Add the oil and beat until combined and light
 and creamy, about 3 more minutes. Add the eggs and vanilla and beat on
medium speed until everything is completely combined, about 1 minute.
Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and
salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Beat on low speed for
a few seconds, then beat in the milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice *just* until
combined. Toss the blueberries with 1 Tablespoon of flour and gently fold
into the batter. Batter is thick. Do not over-mix.
4. Spoon batter evenly into prepared cake pans. Bake for about 22–26 minutes
or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Remove from
the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan before assembling and
frosting.
5. Make the frosting: Using a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle
attachment, beat cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until
no lumps remain, about 3 full minutes. Add confectioners’ sugar, heavy
cream, vanilla extract, and salt with the mixer running on low. Turn mixer
up to high speed and beat for 3 minutes.
6. Assemble and frost: First, slice a thin layer off the tops of the cakes to
create a flat surface. Place 1 layer on your cake stand. Evenly cover the top
with cream cheese frosting. Top with 2nd layer, more frosting, then the
third layer. Top with frosting and spread around the sides. Refrigerate for
at least 45 minutes before cutting or else the cake may fall apart as you cut.
•
KNTTING PATTERN FOR MEMORY HEARTS
Cast on 2 stitches and knit 2 rows
Cast on one stitch at beginning and end …knit a row
Continue until there are 12 stitches on row…knit 3 rows
Cast on 1 stitch at beginning and end (14 stitches) … knit 3 rows
Cast on 1 stitch at beginning and end (16 stitches) … knit 2 rows
Knit 8 stitches. Transfer the other 8 stitches on row to needle holder.
Knit 2 rows
Decrease (knit 2 together) at beginning and end (6) stitches…knit one row
Decrease at beginning and end (4) stitches…knit one row
Decrease at beginning and end (2) stitches…knit one row
Knit last 2 stitches together and tie off
Transfer the other 8 stitches to needle
Knit 3 rows
Decrease at beginning and end (6) stitches…knit one row
Decrease at beginning and end (4) stitches…knit one row
Decrease at beginning and end (2) stitches…knit one row
Knit last 2 stitches together and tie off
Sew 2 parts together and stitch. Turn inside out and stuff with filling, lightly
darning and open areas.
Sew button to front.

PLEASE STUFF THESE HEARTS VERY WELL..TO NEAR

BURSTING, AS THEY WILL BE HANDLED A LOT.