Food4Body, Food4Soul - THANKSGIVING DAY
On 22 November, Thanksgiving Day, more than forty of us from different Christian traditions, united in remembering all our blessings and their Source, the Lord Jesus Christ, in the spirit of the U.S. National Feast Day. Our prayer service was followed by a meal together in the Function Room, after which people lingered to chat and enjoy each other's company. All in all, a most successful and enjoyable evening in service, as always, of Jesus' dersire 'that all may be one'.
Icon: taken from chapel of the Irish College, Rome, designed by Marco Rupnik S.J.
Symbolism of fish: Greek for fish is icthus. Used as a code in early Christian times: Iesous (Jesus) CHristos (Christ) THeou (God) Uiou (Son) Soter (Saviour). Red represents divinity and blue, humanity, in Rupnik's iconography. Christ in his divinity, therefore, plunges into our humanity in order to 'divinise' it. Christ is our Saviour! This is the core of our common faith. Let us rejoice and give thanks...together!
All Souls
Mass in Belfield Church at 1.05pm to celebrate All Souls Day.
On this day we remember all our relatives and friends 'who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith' (Eucharistic liturgy).
'We believe in the communion of saints, the resurrection of the body and life everlasting' (Creed). And so, we remember - in the sense of making present to us - our loved ones 'for whom life has changed, not ended' (Funeral liturgy).
"To imagine ourselves outside the temporality that imprisons us and in some way to sense that eternity is not an unending succession of days in the calendar, but something more like the supreme moment of satisfaction, in which totality embraces us and we embrace totality—this we can only attempt. It would be like plunging into the ocean of infinite love, a moment in which time—the before and after—no longer exists. We can only attempt to grasp the idea that such a moment is life in the full sense, a plunging ever anew into the vastness of being, in which we are simply overwhelmed with joy. This is how Jesus expresses it in Saint John's Gospel: “I will see you again and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you” (16:22). We must think along these lines if we want to understand the object of Christian hope, to understand what it is that our faith, our being with Christ, leads us to expect" (Benedict XVI, Spe Salvi §12).
All Saints
Mass at 1.05pm in Belfield Church to celebrate the Feast of All the Saints.
"Holiness never goes out of fashion; on the contrary, with the passage of time it shines out ever more brightly, expressing man's perennial effort to reach God." (Pope Benedict XVI).
"Holiness is not something for the extraordinary; it is not a luxury of the few. Holiness is the simple duty for each one of us." (Mother Teresa of Calcutta).
Multi-faith gathering
Reflections on pilgrimage
Date: 25 October 2012 Time: 4-5.30pm
Venue: St. Stephen's chaplaincy
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The theme of pilgrimage was chosen because the 25 Oct stands between two great Muslim festivals related to pilgrimage: the Hajj (24th) and Eid Ul-Adha (26th). The importance of these festivals was explained by our Muslim friends who emphasised unity and the equality of all (rich and poor) as a central value in the tradition of pilgrimage to Mecca and/or other local pilgrimages. We also heard about the significance of pilgrimage for Christians, Baha'i's, Buddhists, Sikhs, and Jews who were represented at our gathering, either in person or in the words they prepared for the event. |
To the left and from the left, our Muslim (Khadijah), Christian (Lucie and Annie) and Jewish (Natalia) friends 'standing together'. 
Pic to the right, Stef and friend enjoy the Interfaith calendar. There was one for everyone in the audience!
These are just a few of the many who gathered around a circle over a nice cup of coffee (and Frances' delicious scones!) to share the richess and richness of their faith. In this way, we seek to grow in mutual regard and respect and to form friendships, thus building up the unity we all agree is of supreme value to human life. For Christians, the task of building unity among all is inspired by the words of Jesus, That all may be one (John 17).
Food4Soul, Food4Body
Who do people say I am?
We resumed our ecumenical gatherings with a question, Jesus' challenging question to us all, Who do people say I am? The question aptly opens the 'Year of Faith' during which we face together the Churches' urgent task of making Christ known again in places where he has been forgotten.
Date: 11 October 2012. Opening of the Year of Faith, 50th anniversary of the opening of Vatican II.
Venue: St. Stephen's chaplaincy
Time: 6pm prayer, 6.30pm food and festivities.
This was a wonderful gathering of between 40 and 50 students from various Christian denominations and many different countries and continents. Some from other faiths and others just 'coming to see', graced our gathering and indicated how the message of Jesus - the Person of Jesus - continues to draw us all into closer communion.
The food also was delicious!
Faith & Secular Society
Date: 10 October 2012
Time: 7-10pm
The chaplaincy was delighted to host the Newman Society's guest speaker, Fr. Jim Corkery S.J., who spoke to the topic Faith and Secular Society.
Fr. Jim is a professor of systematic theology at the Milltown Institute and an expert in the theology of Joseph Ratzinger (now Pope Benedict XVI). He lived up to his reputation as an accomplished presenter of material and masterful as a teacher and audience facilitator.
As expected, his presentation was stimulating and inspiring, and the ensuing conversation and Q/A with the thirty or so students (and others), was enlightening and engaging.
Here is a flavour of his talk: 'This evening I will focus (aided by John Water's recent book Beyond Consolation) on the 'silent melody' of public culture today that 'hums' the implicit (and insidious) tune that 'unbelief is smarter than belief' (83, 112). I will suggest.....that we need, in this 'secular age', to find new ways of 'imaging our lives' that are not so ruled by the 'background music' ... of the cultural refrains that seep, surreptitiously, into our own lived assumptions'.
Fr. Corkery challenged the prevaling assumptions of secularism, offering to his audience a new confidence to embrace and to be a bit more 'feisty' in proclaiming the Christian faith as a reasonable and intelligent position to hold.
Compostela Walk Information Evening
Annual UCD Walk to Santiago de Compostela, Spain,
May 2013
INFORMATION EVENING for those interested:
Date: Wednesday, October 3rd 2012
Time: 6.15pm
Place: Room 118, Quinn Business SchooL
Gillian Kingston met twelve would-be pilgrims and laid out her stall for the 2013 pilgrimage walk to Compostela.
Trip to Glendalough
Trip to Glendalough, Saturday 29 September 2012.
30 brave students headed for Glendalough for a day trip that turned out to be sunny and bright and full of novelty for many, especially our visitors from Malaysia, Chile, Iran...and the hand-full of Irish too who were visiting this ancient monastic site for the first time. We were able to learn all about the history of Glendalough in the interpretative centre and after a stroll to the beautiful upper lake, we headed up the hill to St. Kevin's cell where there is a simple scupture of St. Kevin and the Blackbird, which the poet laureate, Séamus Heaney, immortalised in his poem of the same title. We paused for a moment in silence in that place as we tried to connect with 'Love's deep river' flowing through that sacred place and entering for a brief moment also into our souls. Perhaps our awareness grew of 'the network of eternal life' which surrounds us but which often evades us in the din of modern life. Like the poet, we glimpsed for a moment the mind and heart of St. Kevin who sought and found God in that secluded and exquisitely beautiful place, Glendalough, the valley of two lakes.
St Kevin and the Blackbird
And then there was St Kevin and the blackbird.
The saint is kneeling, arms stretched out, inside
His cell, but the cell is narrow, so
One turned-up palm is out the window, stiff
As a cross-beam, when a blackbird lands
And lays in it and settles down to rest.
Kevin feels the warm eggs, the small breast, the tucked
Neat head and claws and, finding himself linked
Into the network of eternal life,
Is moved to pity: Now he must hold his hand
Like a branch out in the sun and rain for weeks
Until the young are hatched and fledged and flown.
And since the whole thing's imagined anyhow,
Imagine being Kevin. Which is he?
Self-forgetful or in agony all the time
From the neck on out down through his hurting forearms?
Are his fingers sleeping? Does he still feel his knees?
Or has the shut-eyed blank of underearth
Crept up through him? Is there distance in his head?
Alone and mirrored clear in Love's deep river,
'To labour and not to seek reward,' he prays,
A prayer his body makes entirely
For he has forgotten self, forgotten bird
And on the riverbank forgotten the river's name.
*Seamus Heaney, born 1939 in Co. Derry, poet laureate, recipient of the 1995 Nobel Prize in Literature, considered by some to be the greatest poet of our age.
Orientation Week Welcome
On Thursday 6 September, from 4pm to 5.30pm, UCD chaplains and students welcomed our new students to St. Stephen's chaplaincy. More than forty people were present, including the chaplains and auditors of the Newman Society, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Christian Union and Livingstones, each of whom gave a brief presentation of their activities on campus and their ongoing association with the chaplaincy.
To lighten the proceedings, we had nice cup of tea/coffee and some delicious home-made scones prepared by Frances (coordinator of St. Stephen's). People mixed and mingled for over an hour and then left quietly....and satisfied, by all accounts.
UCD Chaplaincy report 2012
https://imap.ucd.ie/uwc/webmail/attach/Pdf_Global_Minds_Chaplaincy_Report_2012-4.pdf?sid=&mbox=INBOX&uid=38764&number=2&filename=Pdf%20Global_Minds_Chaplaincy_Report_2012-4.pdfSantiago de Compostela 2012
Our Camino Pilgrimage Walk of 2012 has just finished with a group of
twelve - led by John Callanan S.J. and Gillian Kingston of the UCD
chaplaincy - taking on the section of the route from Pamplona to
Burgos. Our usual routine is that we start walking around 6.30 a.m.
to avoid the heat and complete our alloted eighteen miles or so of
tramping by lunchtime.
Along the way our students usually meet really interesting characters
with stories to tell. The sharing that goes on - as well as some of
the interactions within our own group - are an essential part of the
experience as is our nightly group Mass which we share together and at
which the events of the day can be reflected upon.
We offer a short prayer of thanks to St James for helping make the
trip such a delight and for helping overcome the pain of the blisters.
(Report of Fr. John, right of pic)
The 2012 Pilgrimage Walk to Compostela de Santiago in aid of Peter McVerry's work with homeless young people in Ireland was brought to its conclusion this week with a meal in St Stephen's chaplaincy for all who were involved with the effort. This has been our tenth year of taking on the wonderful Spainish experience and over Euro 80,000 has been raised for Fr McVerry's really worthwhile work.
Food4Soul, Food4Body
On Wednesday 18 April 2012, 6pm, at St. Stephen's chaplaincy (opp. 39A bus terminal), the chaplaincy organised the last of our ecumenical gatherings this year. The aim, as always: not only to witness to our Christian unity, but also to bring forward humbly but confidently, Christ's last will and testament 'that all may by one' (John 17:21). The picture opposite captures well our desire in union with Christ's desire. It represents the miraculous catch of fish being hauled in by the twelve apostles and it describes the saving mission of the Church which is guided and directed by the figure hidden from view here, Jesus, the Good Shepherd. The mosaic is a detail from Marco Rupnik's magnificent design in the chapel of the Spanish Bishops' Conference, Madrid, Spain.
Opposite: some of our dear Malaysian friends who joined us for the event.
Interfaith gathering
'The Triumph of Good over Evil': what do the major religions have to say about this? What do our sacred texts teach us about this? What bearing does this teaching have on our decisions and actions?
Each faith represented at our humble gathering spoke to this topic for a brief 2-3 mins. After all had spoken, an opportunity for a short interchange followed. The discussion was respectful and enlightening as each person contributed to the exploration of the theme. Frances' delicious scones added a light touch to the weighty matters under review!
Here we see Amy and Blake in conversation.
Date: Thursday 12 April 2012
Time: 4-5.30pm
Place: St. Stephen's chaplaincy, UCD.
Student retreat
Student retreat: Friday 24 February to Sunday 26 February, 2012.
Location: Cicstercian Abbey, Roscrea.
Here we are in the guest house! Twelve 'apostles' and the retreat guide (Fr. Leon, far right of pic)!
This retreat followed the Ignatian method: largely a silent retreat, creating the conditions and the space to allow God to speak quietly and personally to each one. It was guided by Fr. Leon (chaplain) who suggested topics for prayer and reflection and offered some hints for meditation and contemplation. There was also the opportunity to join the monks in the Prayer of the Church throughout the day.
Each person left with some 'gift' or grace from God and hence in greater peace with him or herself and the world.
Lenten events
HOPE!
On Thursday 23 February, 1-1.30pm in Health Sciences' prayer room (end of C block, ground floor, on right), Fr. Leon (chaplain) led a Lenten reflection on 'Hope'. He showed a clip from the movie Shawshank Redemption in which Andy (pic) opens out for his fellow-prisoners the possibility of hope in a seemingly hopeless situation, reminding them that 'there are places apart from these grey, drap prison walls...' in which a man can feel free. That hope, he tells them, is inside, in one's heart, in one's mind and it is something that noone can take from you. Leon went on to quote some wonderful passages from Spe Salvi, Pope Benedict XVI's encyclical on hope, in which he distinguishes 'hope' or 'hopes' with a small 'h' and the great Hope, with a capital 'H', that also resides in the human heart - the Hope, precisely, for 'Redemption' with a capital 'R'! This Hope is only possible in God and it is the Hope that remains when all other 'hopes' have been either exhausted or fulfilled. It is the Hope that leads the soul to Eternity.
ELATION!
Friday 24 February: 'Ruah - Prayer with Elation', 8-9pm, Contemplation Room, St. Stephen's chaplaincy (opposite bus terminal).
Elation, ever popular with young people, delighted those who attended this event, with wonderful music for worship.
Light refreshments followed.
Imaginative Meditation
Thursday 1 March: Fr. John Callanan S.J. led a Lenten meditation with an eastern flavour, 1-1.30pm, in Health Sciences' prayer room.
A bunch of students attended and enjoyed - not only the meditation but the light refreshments afterwards too.
Where the Hell is God?
Wednesday 7 March, St. Stephen's chaplaincy, 7-8.30pm: Where the Hell is God? Fr. Richard Leonard S.J. talks about his book of the same title in which he explores the mystery of human suffering. This is a not a dry, theoretical 'take' on suffering, but a heart-felt, harrowing struggle to come to terms with his sister's devastating injuries following a car-crash a number of years ago.
Fr. Leonard is a well-known speaker who travels world-wide giving talks and seminars on Christian faith through the creative lens of cinema.
Below, students listening attentively to the speaker and asking some theologically challenging questions!
Prayer through Art
As part of UCD chaplains' Lenten series, Gillian Kingston, UCD chaplain and lay leader of the Methodist Church, gave a stimulating and enlighening presentation on 'Art and Prayer' in the Health Sciences prayer room, Thursday 22 March, 1-1.30pm.
The session was followed by some light refreshments - a convivial moment in which old friends meet and greet and new ones are integrated into the fold.
Who was Jesus?
UCD Christian Union and UCD Islamic society jointly present:
'Who was JESUS?'
Adnan Rashid an expert in Islamic civilisation and Jay Smith Biblical scholar, MA Islamic studies will present two different perspectives on the man that changed the course of history.
Thursday 23 February, Th. M Newman Building. 7pm.
Light refreshments afterwards in St. Stephen's chaplaincy. All welcome.
Congratulations Kwan Loong!
Congratulations to Kwan Loong (pictured second from left beside Alice far left and Wei and Emily) on his initiation into the Catholic Church on 19 February 2012, at Belfield church.
Kwan Loong took the baptismal name Francis Xavier after the great Jesuit missionary who travelled from the west to the east and spent some time in Malacca, Malaysia, Kwan Loong's homeland. To seal his connection with UCD where he has studied medicine for the last three years, he took the Confirmation name of John Henry after the Founder of UCD, Blessed John Henry Newman.
Kwan Loong was accompanied on his road to Christian faith by Alice, his sponsor and friend, and by Fr. Leon his spiritual guide. He was supported by many members of the Christian community who turned out in their numbers at the Sunday Mass of initiation. Afterwards, he was joined by the congregation at the student centre for light refreshments which afforded the legitimately proud community the opportunity to meet and greet and welcome him to the fold.
May God continue to bless, protect and guide you, Kwan Loong, as you return to Penang to complete your medical studies.
Go n-éirí an bóthar leat! May the road rise to greet you!
Slán agus beannacht!
People of faith....stand together
On Wednesday 1st February, as part of International Week, the chaplains invited people of (Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Baha'i, Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh etc.) faith to 'stand together' in the Students' Union concourse in a gesture of solidarity with one another and to witness to the importance of religion for many people throughout the world.
In Europe, we are more and more exposed to the secularist agenda which would relegate religion to the private (and by implication, insignificant) sphere. As people of faith, we see the importance of religion as a powerful motivational force for good in society. Standing together, we can be strong and united in presenting those values which all religions promote, such as justice, love and peace; human rights; care for the poor; respect for the environment; worship that spills over into 'love of neighbour', etc.
The symbols on our pull-up banner (left) suggest that we can stand shoulder to shoulder on issues of mutual concern.
As Christians, this stance is not only justified, but deemed essential by Christ's own desire and heart-felt prayer: 'that all may be one' (John 17).
Food4Soul,Food4Body
To end the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which had as its theme this year We will be changed (by the victory of our Lord Jesus Christ), the chaplains invited all Christians of all denominations and traditions on campus to join them for prayer, fellowship and festivities (food!) on Wednesday 25 January 2012, 6pm, St. Stephen's chaplaincy. Just under 40 students turned up, so we had to host both the prayer and festivities it in the Function Room, where the group mixed and mingled for a few hours after our ecumenical prayer service.
We chose the beautiful icon opposite - Evie Hone's stained-glass depiction of the Sacred Heart devotion, promoted by the Society of Jesus and hence portraying some Jesuit historical figures such as Luigi Gonzaga who died in his early twenties serving those struck by the plague in Rome and Stanislaus Kotska, a Polish noble-man who, also in his early twenties, walked from Warsaw to Rome to join the fledgling Society - as it captures pictorially the kind of 'metanoia' or change of heart (and change of direction) suggested by the theme of our prayer and expressed beautifully by the prophet Ezekiel:
'I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you. I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh instead' (Ezekiel 36:26).
Thank God for yet another successful ecumenical gathering at St. Stephen's! Our friendship and solidarity across denominational differences, are growing and developing.
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UCD Christmas Carol Service
On Thursday, 8 December 2012, at 7pm in the Global Lounge, students took a prayerful, reflective moment to take stock and recall the true story of our lives.
Readings from the prophet Isaiah foretelling the birth of the Saviour and readings from the Gospel account of Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, put this ecumenical event in context, i.e. a celebration of the mystery of God-with-us, Emmanuel. There was some sharing on the meaning of Christmas by students, some input by our invited preacher, and lots of carol singing. At the end, a collection was taken up on behalf of the UCD Society of St. Vincent de Paul's Welfare fund for students in a critical financial situation.
This event was jointly organised by Christian Union, Newman Society, Livingstones and UCD Chaplaincy. Mulled wine and minced pies were served afterwards in St. Stephen's chaplaincy.
How good it is to share jointly across the Christian denominational divides, our common faith in Jesus, Emmanuel, 'born to be King' and present in our world in the continued work of bringing about his Kingdom of justice, love and peace.
Food4Soul, Food4Body. Ecumenical gathering at St. Stephen's chaplaincy, UCD.
Some of our guests at our Food4Soul, Food4Body ecumenical gathering at St. Stephen's on Wednesday 23 November 2011.
Almost forty young Christians from various denominations joined in prayer and fellowship at the Chaplaincy. Our friendship and mutual esteem are growing as we jointly witness to our common faith in Jesus, the Lord and Saviour.
On 8 December, Christian Union, the Newman Society and Livingstones will host a Christmas Carol Service for students and staff on campus - a welcome break from the stress of study and exam preparation. All welcome. Details to follow.
Book Launch
On Wednesday 23 November 2011, Fr. John McNerney (pictured here on the day of his conferring with a PhD at UCD), attended the launch of The Heritage of John Paul II, Veritas 2011 (ed. Ciarán Ó Croiligh) at St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra. The President, Dr. Pauric Travers hosted the event and the book was launched by Senator Ronán Mullen. Fr. John has a most enlightening chapter on the Philosophy of John Paul II in this book. Other contributors include the editor, Ciaran O Coigligh, who offers interesting insight into the pontiff's dramatic and poetic compositions, Fr Vincent Twomey who writes on Pope John Paul's theology, Eileen Kane who looks at John Paul's understanding of the significance of the dialogue between the Church and the artist, and Dr. Tadeusz Szumowski, the Polish ambassador, who gives his own personal reflections on John Paul II. In addition, John Murray of Mater Dei presents the Pope's Theology of the Body, Thomas Dennigan the Pope's record in Interfaith dialogue, and Brendan Leahy, John Paul's ecumenism.
All in all, a most worthwhile read....and a fitting Christmas gift!
Interfaith gathering
Following several successful Interfaith gatherings which have provided a unique opportunity to celebrate our religious diversity and points of religious convergence, on Thursday 27 October, at 4pm, in St. Stephen's chaplaincy, about twenty of us gathered to share on our chosen theme: Faith and Human Freedom. Fr. Leon introduced the meeting by placing the event in a wider context - the meeting of 172 religious leaders in Assisi taking place - coincidentally - at the same time. The Assisi event aimed at furthering unity among the religions in their common search for truth, justice and peace. At our modest gathering in St. Stephen's, Catholic and Protestant Christians, Muslims, Jews and Sikhs eloquently presented their understanding of human freedom, through the lens of their particular religious beliefs. The sharing and discussion was enllightening, enriching and encouraging for us all.
Photos to follow!
Food4Soul, Food4Body!
On Thursday 29 September 2011, we recommenced our regular inter-Christian gatherings at St. Stephen's which have become very popular over the last number of years, with ecumenical prayer at 6pm, followed by a meal and fellowship at 6.30pm. This was the biggest turn-out ever! Just shy of 40 people, from many parts of the globe: Malaysia, South Africa, Argentina, the U.S.A., Germany and - needless to say - Ireland. The atmosphere was awesome. Food and fellowship was just great. People lingered over conversation long afterwards.
'That all may be one' (John 17:17) is a growing reality also here at UCD.
Welcome to all newcomers to UCD!
Come join us at St. Stephen's chaplaincy (opp main bus terminal) for a cup of tea/coffee and delicious home-made scones on Thursday 8 Sept, at 4pm. Enjoy our hospitality and meet fellow-students who will let you in on the good news of what UCD chaplaincy has to offer. All welcome!
Student Mass recommences on Saturday 25 September at 6pm in St. Stephen's chaplaincy (opposite no 10 bus terminus).
Event Note: Just under 30 people came to St. Stephen's for this brief introduction of new UCD students to the chaplaincy. We welcomed them to UCD and the Chaplaincy centre with a warm cup of coffee and delicious home-made scones with jam and cream! What better start to the new academic year!
Congratulations John!
We heartily congratulate Fr. John McNerney for his great achievement in securing his PhD at UCD. Here he is on his conferring day, with Gillian, John Callanan and Leon, his chaplaincy team. Colleagues and friends joined in the celebrations on the day and that evening. We wish John well for the future.
Compostela 2011
Two of our chaplains, Fr. John Callanan (3rd from left) and Gillian Kingston (far right) accompanied a group of students and staff from UCD on the Compostela walk. Fr. John wrote: 'The whole trip took twelve days and entailed about six hours walking each day. We were blessed with wonderful weather and great stories from fellow travellers along the way which really created a sense of being on pilgrimage for all concerned'.
Fr. Leon (3rd from right) was privileged to join a group of about twenty UCD students on the Northern route, in Gallicia, in late June. The photo shows a weary but happy group just after arriving in Santiago after about 200km walk - not all in one day, of course! The longest and most demanding 
tranche was from Baamonde to Sobrado - 41 km, just shy of a full marathon! Sobrado de los monjes, an ancient and still active Cistercian monastery, was a refuge like no other after such a rigorous march. The little cafes along the way and the warmth of companionship and friendship, lightened the load and made it all worthwhile.
Rite of Acceptance
The Rite of Aceptance to the order of catechumens of Kwan Loong Lee (standing to Fr.. Leon's right in pic) at 11.30 Mass 10 April 2011, was a joyful and uplifting occasion for Belfield church in general and for the circle of friends (from left to right: Cathal, Patrick, Norella, Leon, Kwan Loong, Alice, Amie, Kelsey and Eamonn) in particular. Alice Leung, his colleague in Medical School and friend, is his sponsor in this process of preparation for full initiation into the Catholic Church, which Fr. Leon is conducting. The Congregation, who must support and guide him in this process, warmly greeted Kwan Loong and friends after Mass. Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to our new catechumen!
Addiction
IBDI / studentHSE & CN3 In Service Day : Introduction to Brief Interventions
Date: Friday 1st April 2011
Venue: St.Stephen’s Chaplaincy UCD
Time: 10.30am-4pm
Trainers:
Paul Goff, Substance Misuse Liaison Officer,Waterford General Hospital
Marion Rackard IAAAC, IAHIP, Project Manager, Substance Misuse Strategy, HSE
Purpose: The pastoral care counsellor is in a unique position to positively engage students in opportunistic conversations on the reduction of substance misuse notably alcohol and to offer a brief intervention.
This was an invaluable day for CN3 members and guests. It equipped us with a very simple but effective tool of brief intervention that has had considerable success in halting further regression in alcohol and drug misuse. Often young people are oblivious to the harmful effects of their alcohol consumption - to take but one form of substance abuse - and when confronted with the 'at risk' signs, readily cooperate with practical means to redress the situation. The SAOR method of brief intervention is effective also because the intervention is early - well before the situation becomes chronic.
Brief Interventions (3)
Identification and Screening:
Students exploring their harmful use of substances can be encouraged to be screened or to screen themselves for their substance use. Depending on the results they can be offered a brief intervention. Introduction to screening tools for alcohol and drugs.
“Simple Brief Advice”:
Offering opportunistic ‘simple brief advice’ to students is known to be effective for those who are drinking/drug using heavily but who are not dependent.
Basic skills to understand the delivery of screening, simple structured brief advice and referral can be taught in a short space of time.
“Brief Motivational Interviewing”:
This is a 20-30 minute conversation using specific motivational interviewing or cognitive behavioural techniques using the SAOR model.
Training in the practice of motivational interviewing techniques were offered using role plays.
Faith makes a difference
Fr. John Callanan S.J., continuing the theme of our Lenten series, beginning with our interfaith gathering (Faith makes a difference), led a half hour Lenten reflection at 1.05 pm Thursday 31 March in St. Stephen's chaplaincy.
Light refreshments followed.
Interfaith gathering
'Faith makes a difference: a cry for justice'.
On 24 March 2011, a group of over twenty people from a variety of religious faiths (Muslim, Baha'i, Jewish, Christian...) gathered at St. Stephen's chaplaincy to share a moment's reflection on current events in North Africa and the Middle East. It was remarkable to see a meeting of minds and hearts around shared values such as God's plan for a world based on justice, love, peace, freedom and solidarity, the importance of prayer, the necessity to practice justice locally and globally, etc.
Adding to the poignancy of the event was the presence of Mohammed (far left) originally from Lybia whose father is currently in Banghazi, a zone of conflict. Our guests also included students of Palestinian origin and, of course, our Malaysian friends Alice and Kwan Loong, long-time friends of the chaplaincy, seen here to the right enjoying Frances' delicious home-made scones with jam!
Members of the Newman Society and Christian Union were also present. Blake White (far right in first left pic above) presented the Jewish perspective on ethics, including ecology, and Arran Kennedy (seen here on the right talking to Patrick Fox, left) explained key elements of the Baha'i faith clearly and concisely.
Our two Muslim friends below, Saihah and Ada, graced us with their presence, their comments on the Islamic faith and their lively questions afterwards in private conversation.
Overall, an uplifting and encouraging moment in the life of UCD chaplaincy.
Archbishop Diarmuid Martin presided at the 1.05 Mass in Belfield Church on Ash Wednesday 9 March 2011. In his homily, he said: 'Lent is not a moment to be negative. It is an invitation to Christians to show the way. We live Lent when we realise that the only way in which we can combat evil is through goodness, the only way to overcome hatred is through love, the only way to eliminate violence is through being peaceful, the only way to assault falsehood is to see that true freedom prevails'.
Previous Events
Ignatius Loyola
The spirituality of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Pictorial presentation of key moments in the saint's life which gave rise to his developing spirituality. By Leon Ó Giolláin S.J. (Chaplain)
Time: Tuesday 27 Oct, 7pm St. Ste
Retreat
Here we are at Mount St. Joseph Cistercian Abbey, Roscrea! We joined the monks for their prayer in common and were guided in private prayer and contemplation by Fr. Leon (far left - in pic, not politically!). The weather was kind to us and the good Lord too, who was the real guide of this peaceful and joyful experience in the beautiful setting of Mount St. Joseph's Abbey.
Food4Soul, Food4Body
Tuesday 1 March at 6.15pm in St. Stephen's chaplaincy: time taken to renew and refresh the bonds of union between all the Christian denominations on campus.A representative group gathered for a short ecumenical prayer in the Contemplation Room and then proceeded to the Function Room for food, friendship and fellowship!
We remembered in our prayers our sisters and brothers in Christchurch, New Zealand, and in Libya who are currently under a cloud of darkness. We recalled Christ's solidarity with suffering humanity and his promise of resurrection and the hope of a new heaven and a new earth.
Methodist visit
Gillian Kingston (UCD chaplain and lay leader of the Methodist Church in Ireland) and Paul Kingston (President of the Methodist Church in Ireland) enjoy a moment together in the Folklore department as they view the archives. Paul and his wife Edna were present at an official visit to UCD on Thursday 17 February 2011. student
In attendance as guests of the chaplaincy were Dr. Martin Butler (UCD Vice-President for Student Welfare) and Dominic O'Keeffe (Student Centre Manager) who showed the new Student Centre (in construction) to our guests. The Presbyterian Church and 
Methodist Church in Dublin were also represented, as well as some UCD students and staff who joined us for coffee in Newman, G005. Overall, a successful and pleasant visit.
Christianity Week 
Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me (Revelations 3:20).
The first ever Christianity Week took place in UCD from 7-10 February 2011. It began on Monday the 7th with 'Ignite' - an evening of prayer and worship where we all gathered together to pray for God's intervention on campus and that the week would be a success. Tuesday saw 'Text-a-Toastie' evening where toasted sandwiches were distributed to apartments in Belgrove. Its aim was to promote awareness of the week's other events. Thursday night saw a Question & Answers panel take place in Arts' Theatre N. What shone through the event was the solidarity amongst the panellists, as well as some great answers to the fundamental beliefs of our shared faith! Friday saw the first of a 4 week crash-course on Christianity.
Heartiest congratulations to the Newman Society, Christian Union, Livingstones...and others for conceiving and seeing through this inspired initiative. May it be the first of many.
Aifreann Gaeilge Seachtain na Gaeilge
Ag 1.05pm ar an Aoine 4 Feabhra bhí Aifreann as Gaeilge in Eaglais na hOllscoile mar chuid de sheachtain na Gaeilge. Bhí ceol traidisiúnta den scoth á sheinnt ag na micléinn agus iomainn áille Gaelacha á gcanadh acu. 
Deis iontach ár n-oidhreacht creidimh agus cultúir a chomóradh mar is dúil. I ndiaidh an Aifrinn, tháinig slua beag ar ais go San Stiofáin chun soláistí a ghlacadh le chéile. Gach duine thar a bheith sásta leis an ócáid!
Christian Unity
To mark the week of prayer for Christian Unity, a special Food4Soul, Food4Body took place on Thursday 20 January 2011 at 6.30pm at St. Stephen's chaplaincy. As usual, we prayed together for a half hour in the Contemplation room and then enjoyed food and fellowship afterwards in the Function room. Our theme, in keeping with the week that was in it, was 'All Things in Common'.
Attendance was excellent - around the 30 mark! As part of our prayer for Christian unity, we wrote on a slip of paper what we believed we had to offer to Christians of other traditions and what we received from them.
We placed these on the altar, and took some time to reflect and pray together in gratitude.
Carol Service
Over 100 people attended a lovely Carol Service organised jointly by the Christian Union and the Chaplaincystudent. It took place on Wednesday 24 November in the Contemplation Space, Quinn School, between 6-7pm, followed by mulled wine and mince pies in St. Stephen's chaplaincy.
CU (lower right) led us in traditional sing-along carols. We also had studenta powerful piece of drama on creation, sin and Jesus' rescue of man from the
clutches of evil, a short homily on the meaning of Christmas from Tim and a personal story of faith from Suzie. Fiona (CU) and Patrick (Newman Soc) compered the evening, thus witnessing to a united front, Christian unity, in proclaiming the Word made Flesh who dwelt - and dwells - among us.
Life after death (interreligious)
In St. Stephen's chaplaincy, on Wednesday 17 November 2010, studentrepresentatives of the major world religions shared their beliefs about 'life after death' in an atmosphere of mutual regard and respect.
We started with 'A' - the atheistic stance represented by Deenish (left opposite) - and worked our way through the alphabet to include the Baha'i faith, Buddhism, Christianity (Catholic and Methodist), Islam, Judaism, and Sikh religion. Our Hindu friends were, regrettably, unable to attend.
A mark of people's satisfaction with the event was the prolonged lingering and mingling over studenta cup of tea afterwards. And, of course, a call to continue to gather like this!
The Newman Society hosted a 'Spanish night' to celebrate the culture of its Spanish members. This took place at St. Stephen's chaplaincy On Thursday 4 November at 7pm. Cocina muy sabrosa! Gracias a todos y a todas.
We ended the evening with a prayer called the Examen which St. Ignatius of Loyola - a Spanaish saint of the 16th century - proposed as a spiritual exercise which opened the heart and mind to the presence of God in all the events of our daily lives. Fr. Leon led the group in this prayer. See http://ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/the-examen/
All Souls Day
Prayers for deceased relatives and friends of UCD staff and students was offered at the 1.05 Mass in Belfield Church on Tuesday 2 November. This Mass was very well attended. It was greatly enhanced by beautiful music sung by Fiona Hickey, accompanied on the organ by Niall Kinsella.
Scott Ahearn (SU Welfare Officer) introduced the ritual of stones at the end of Mass and invited the congregation to assemble at the UCD Remembrance Garden, where the stones and the lantern were placed by the fountain. This candle will remain lit for the month of November.
At 5pm, a moment's silence in candlelight took place outside the main library in memory of all those who died by suicide - an initiative of the Please Talk campaign.
Food4Soul
Best one yet! On Wednesday 27 October, as part of our ongoing ecumenical gatherings, more than 30 of us met in St. Stephen's contemplation space for a short ecumenical service led by Patrick and Annie, auditors of the Newman Society, around the theme of Christian unity: 'that all may be one' (John 17). Afterwards, a lovely meal in the Function Room - building up fellowship, friendship, commmunity, communion among us. student
Fr. Leon and Sam (CU) witness to same (right)!
And below, Fr. Leon, Kwan Loong and Gillian. student
Thanks to one and all for a wonderful evening!
More to come!
Compostela info evening
Compostela Walk in Spain:
An information evening about the pilgrimage walk in Spain (June 2011) was held in the Quinn School, Room Q119, on Tuesday evening 12th October at 6.15 pm. This was well attended. Fr. John Callanan S.J. (chaplain, 2nd from right) and Mary Finlay continue to organise this wonderful event which serves the needs of the homeless via the Fr. Peter McVerry trust. For more information, contact: jcallanan25@gmail.com
Addiction
On Friday 15 October 2010 (10.30am-4.30pm), at St. Stephen's chaplaincy, the Chaplains Network at Third Level (CN3) organised a day of reflection on alcohol and drug addiction among young adults. Our main speaker (John Taaffe of the Irish Bishops' Drug Initiative) took ill at the last moment, so Dr. Fiona Weldon, clinical director of the Rutland Centre, stepped in at very short notice and gave a very informative talk on addiction.
About 25 chaplains attended.
Cheque for 9000 euro raised through Compostela pilgrimage being presented to Fr. Peter McVerry S.J. (third from left) at St. Stephen's chaplaincy, Thursday 7 October 2010. Congratulations to students and staff - especially Mary Finlay, chief organiser along with Fr. John - for their excellent achievement.
On the right, Fr. John Callanan, UCD chaplain, with students.
Food4Soul Food4Body
The monthly ecumenical gatherings recommenced on Wednesday 29 September in St. Stephen's chaplaincy. As always, we began with a moment of prayer in the contemplation space (6pm) and proceeding to the Function Room for a social gathering with some refreshments (6.30pm). Our theme, heart speaks to heart - - JH Newman's motto, whose beatification on 19 Sept 2010 we continue to mark.
It was heartening to see the mature number of 21 people present. Our hope is that this number increases as we grow in our commitment to Christian unity.
Drawing on the inspiration of Newman, Leon attempted to put these ecumenical gatherings in context,:
'I think', he said, 'we should emphasise at this, the first of our ecumenical services this semester, the importance of Christian unity. Newman may be taken as a model and inspiration for this. In his teaching on conscience, for example, he found common ground not only with people of no particular religious affiliation - conscience being the 'voice within' with which every human person is endowed and which is a sure guide in discerning right and wrong and, indeed, in leading people to the deepest meaning of their human existence - but also with Christians of all persuasions, since he believed the voice of conscience was the voice of God - appealing to all theists who may not be Christian - and the voice of 'the Aboriginal Vicar of Christ' - appealing to all Christians - who speaks to us 'behind a veil'. Our common calling and task as Christians is firstly to listen to that voice ourselves and then to alert people to that voice, the voice of Christ the Good Shepherd, so that we may follow him. This common mission of Christians is all the more urgent today in face of a growing secularisation, sometimes aggressive, which would silence this voice and replace it with what Newman called 'a counterfeit conscience', i.e. the voice of self-will or - in language more familiar to our times - 'whatever you are into yourself'! As followers of Christ, we listen to the voice of Christ. He is our Way. We do not follow our own way or just any way, but HIS way. This is the conviction we as Christians, whatever our tradition and denomination, all share and this we all celebrate in our attempts also to heal the rifts of division among Christians. Let's renew our commitment to Christian unity and do our part, however small, to bring Christ's will - that all may be one - closer to realisation'.
At 11 am on Sunday 26 September, Gillian Kingston (UCD chaplain) presided at a beautiful service in honour of the late John Henry Newman recently beatified in Birmingham, England. The service went out live from RTE studios. In attendance were Fr. Leon Ó Giolláin S.J. (UCD chaplain) who interviewed Patrick and Annie (co-auditors of the UCD Newman Society - 2nd and 6th in photo below) about their experience of the beatification, Dr. Pádraic Conway (Vice-President for University Relations) who spoke of Newman's legacy and his link with UCD, Dr. Martin Butler (Vice-President for Student Welfare), Dr. Art Consgrove (former President of UCD) and Dr. Teresa Iglesias (Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at UCD and Founding Director of the International Centre for Newman Studies).
Students and staff made up the congregation and the UCD Choral Scholars enhanced the occasion with beautiful music drawn mainly from the repertoire of hymns composed by Newman.
Newman was duly honoured by the University he launched over 150 years ago.
Pause for thought
If we were created, it was that we might serve God; if we have his gifts, it is that we may glorify him; if we have a conscience, it is that we may obey it; if we have the prospect of heaven, it is that we may keep it before us; if we have light, that we may follow it; if we have grace, that we may save ourselves by means of it. Alas! Alas! for those who die without fulfilling their mission! Who were called to be holy and lived in sin; who were called to worship Christ, and were plunged into the giddy and unbelieving world; who were called to fight, and who remained idle.....! Alas for those who have had gifts and talent, and have not used, or have misused, or abused them; who have had wealth, and have spent it on themselves; who have had abilities, and have advocated what was sinful, or ridiculed what was true, or scattered doubts against what was sacred. (JH Newman)
Compostela Pilgrimage 2010
Camino Report 2010.
Twelve days in a row without rain, and almost 220 miles covered. That's the Camino de Compostela for you.
One year it rains incessantly and the next ... well one gets almost constant sunshine.
In late May this year, for the eight year in succession, a group of UCD students teamed up with friends from UCG in Galway and were led on their Camino pilgrimage walk by John Callanan S.J. (below with his crook and his staff!) a chaplain in UCD along with a UCD colleague, Mary Finlay (fourth above, clockwise).
'We try to walk about twenty miles a day, setting out in the early dawn, and use hostels along the way to find somewhere to lay our heads at night. We also make it a sponsorship event for Fr Peter McVerry and his work and to date have collected over Euro 50,000 for that charity.
'Two keynote moments usually stand out for us as we walk. Firstly, we gather each evening for liturgy and try to reflect on who we have met and what has struck us that day. After that, the whole group get together for their evening meal and that experience also is a terriffic opportunity to find out where each of us are at along our journey. We try to be reflective about how the university year has been for us for, as John Henry Newman would say, 'if we make light of what is deepest within us, nothing is left but to pay homage to what is more upon the surface'.
Ruby-ists!
Two of the chaplains, Gillian Kingston and John Callanan S.J. (last two on right) with 'experienced' alumni who celebrated their Ruby Graduation ceremony in UCD in June 2010.
Congratulations to one and all!
Interfaith gathering
UCD chaplaincy hosted our second inter-faith gathering on Monday 19 April 2010. studentSeventeen in total shared a beautiful 'devotional moment' as we listened in silent wonder and respect to readings from our various holy books on the theme of peace and tranquillity. (Suitable theme as we approach exam season!). One of our guests remarked on 'how happy everyone was' and how
peaceful. Fr. Leon spoke about the symbolic importance of such gatherings which witness to unity and mutual respect across all religious boundaries. In an age which easily turns its back on God and religion, we celebrate together 'belief' and the enormous contribution it makes to the wellbeing of individuals and society. student
We rounded off our session with delicious home-made scones and a cup of tea...and a chat!
Some of our esteemed guests from the Baha'i (left) and Muslim (above) communities.
We hope to continue this initiative when we return after the summer recess. Please do join us.
Retreat
Moments of rest, repose and energetic exertion during a weekend retreat for UCD students in the Benedictine monastery, Rostrevor, near the beautiful Mourne Mountains, 16-18 April 2010. lstudent
Some comments:
'I experienced in a new way God's personal love for me'. 'I leave with a deep sense of gratitude'. 'Time to reflect on my past and sort out my priorities'.
A view of the monastery
Retreat organised by the Newman Society in collaboration with Fr. Leon (UCD chaplain) who also guided the retreat with a fine blend of Benedictine and Ignatian spirituality!!
On Wednesday, 3 March 2010, a small but representative group of Christian believers gathered for an ecumenical prayer service in St. Stephen's chaplaincy at 6pm. This was followed by a delicious meal at which some unexpected guests also turned up!! (Go out into the highways and the byways....!).
After this, Fr. Leon Ó Giolláin S.J. (UCD Chaplain), at the invitation of the Newman Society, gave a workshop on Prayer as a help for living. The workshop was based on the Examen Prayer of St. Ignatius of Loyola - a twice daily 'mindfulness' exercise for no more than 15 mins (hence do-able for most), during which one plays back (using one's imagination) a set period of one's day, in an effort to notice God's loving presence and action in all the events of that period, as well as one's own 'unloving' attitudes and behaviours that lead to sadness (for oneself and others) and hence the sapping of good energy. Students found this exercise intriguing, useful, helpful.
Here's a link to it, if you're interested in trying it:
http://norprov.org/spirituality/ignatianprayer.htm
Tuesday 2 March 7pm
Fr. Brendan Duddy S.J., an afficionado of film, introduced Gran Torino and suggested ways of viewing it through the lens of faith. A lively discussion took place afterwards. And of course, the whole event was spiced with home-made scones and tea! An excellent evening - all agreed. Thanks to Fr. John Callanan S.J. for making it possible.
Celebration of religions on campus
At the beginning of International Week (Monday 22 February 2010), UCD chaplains welcomed the variety of religions represented on campus - Christians, Muslims, Jews, Sikhs, Hindus, Buddhists, Bahai's, etc - to a 'celebration of religions on campus' at St. Stephen's chaplaincy. In an atmosphere of mutual respect and appreciation, a representative from each religious group present (Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, Bahai and an Agnostic who wished to be represented also) shared a short word on the essence of their belief. Points of convergence quickly appeared, such as acknowledgement of a transcendent reality, the link between one's behaviour on earth and the afterlife, values such as love, justice, peace, concern for the poor, the unity of all peoples, prayer, etc. student
The twenty or so participants were very pleased with the meeting and wished to follow up with another gathering soon. We enjoyed informal chat and fellowship over a nice cup of tea and home-made scones to round off the event - a first in UCD, it seems.
Our Church. Do we need to begin again?
This question and answer session with the Archbishop of Dublin, Diarmuid Martin, similar to those at the World Youth Day, was very well attended - also by UCD students. The Archbishop was candid in his approach and dealth with neuralgic issues such as homosexuality and sexual abuse with ease and honesty. He avoided a moralistic attitude and encouraged renewed contact through the gospels with the Person of Jesus. He insisted that we had as a church to face the evil of sexual abuse without obfuscation or excuse and to regain trust and confidence that had as a result been lost. He suggested that we had in recent years underplayed the truth about evil in the world and perhaps had an overly optimistic outlook on human nature which was prone to sin as well as called to holiness. He encouraged youth participation in Church and the giving of responsibility to them. He spoke of faith as relationship - relationship with Jesus - rather than a set of rules and regulations. He spoke of a correct reading and interpretation of Scripture in terms of how God reveals himself, i.e. as Love that is overflowing, gratuitous, superabundant (as in gallons of water turned into wine at Cana) and full of mercy, in contrast to a more calculating attitude that often characterises mutuality in society.
Date: Tuesday 23 February 2010
Place: Mount Merrion Parish
Time: 8pm
Ash Wednesday 17 February 2010
This year, UCD's 1.05pm Mass was the object of much media attention, due to the Archbishop's visit immediately following his return from the meeting of the Irish Bishops with Pope Benedict XVI in Rome. In his address, the Archbishop called on young people to contribute to the renewal of the Church, saying 'we cannot do it without you'. The church was overflowing. The Archbishop was interviewed by RTE after the Mass about the meeting in Rome.
Aifreann Gaeilge, Seachtain na Gaeilge
I rith seachtain na Gaeilge arís i mbliana bhí Aifreann cheiliúrtha againn do chreideamh agus cultúr na nGael atá de dhlúth agus d'inneach ár n-oidhreacht mar chine. Bhí ceol breá traidisiúnta á sheinnt ag na micléinn. Ocáid álainn dúinn go léir.
An t-Ath Leon (ar chlé) a bhí mar cheiliúraí.
Míle buiochas do gach éinne a ghlac páirt sa tsearmannas.
Methodist Service of Worship at UCD
RTE recording of worship service in the Church of Our Lady, Seat of Wisdom, Belfield. Monday, February 8th
This was a Methodist Service of the Word, led by Gillian Kingston, the Methodist/Presbyterian chaplain on the chaplaincy team. Music: Des Earley and Choral Scholars. Students and staff attended and contributed (readings, interview, etc.). The service was to be broadcast on Sunday, February 28th, in the midmorning.
Food4Soul, Food4Body
Wednesday, February 10th 6.00pm prayer, 6.30pm meal together in St Stephen’s.
Good turn-out for this moment of Christian fellowship on campus.
From left to right, our friends: Kwan Loong, Baptiste, and Alice.
Visit of President of Methodist Church in Ireland
The President of the Methodist Church in Ireland, the Revd Donald Ker at the Folklore department during a visit to UCD on 1st February 2010. From left to right: Professor Ríonach Uí Ógáin (Curator), John Callanan S.J. (Catholic chaplain), Gillian Kingston (Methodist chaplain),
Rev Donald Ker and Robbie Hanna (student).
"Young People for a United World" presents
International Music Night
Raise funds to help the victims of the recent typhoons in the Philippines by joining us.
An evening of music from Ireland, the Philipines and Africa to help those who have been struck by this natural disaster and who continue to suffer even after the story has disappeared from the headlines.
When: Wednesday 18 November 2009 (9:00p.m.)
Where: UCD Student Bar, Belfield
Featuring:
Bill Coleman
Philippino Band
Zeitgeist
Maureen Gatharia
Rebecca Cramer and Phil Curley
+watch the Ireland v France match too!
€5 entry, tickets at the door
On Friday 13 Nov 09 (hope you're not superstitious!), about thirty members of the Chaplains Network at Third Level (CN3) and guests (UCD Student Advisers and Counsellors) gathered at St. Stephen's chaplaincy for a day of reflection on (i) the psychosocial benefits of religious practice and young adults and (ii) a vision for chaplaincy in contemporary society. Dr. Patricia Casey, Professor of Psychiatry at UCD and Consultant at the Mater hospital spoke to the first topic, based on her recently published research on religious practice. 'Religion is good for you' about sums up the message emanating from a very broad-ranging and rigorous body of research. This has got to be good news for chaplains!
In the afternoon, Dr. Diarmuid Martin, D.D. Archbishop of Dublin, shared with us his vision for chaplains in the modern world.
Both speakers provided much food for thought and offered a timely and much-needed fillip of encouragement and inspiration to chaplains studentwho struggle to preserve and present transcendent values in an increasingly secular environment. Satisfaction with the day, which included a buffet lunch and lots of time to chat and catch up, was high, according to the feedback we received from the participants.
Caritas in Veritate
On Tuesday 10 Nov, Kevin Conlon (opp), Auditor of SVP at UCD, presented a summary of Pope Benedict XVI's most recent Encyclical on the Social Teaching of the Church, Caritas in Veritate. Kevin managed to make this deep and sometimes complex document accessible by linking it very effectively to the concrete service the Society of St. Vincent de Paul offers to the poorest of the poor in our society. Well done Kevin!
The chaplaincy hosted this event which was organised by the Newman Society. The evening was rendered palatable by a lovely lasagne prepared by our cook, Frances, which the 20 or so guests who attended, relished!
On Monday 2 November, the Students' Union, in collaboration with the Chaplains and Student Advisers, organised a Memorial Service in memory of deceased relatives and friends of UCD students and staff. Pebble stones, painted in bright colours and including the name representing the person we wished to remember, were brought to the Memorial Mass in Belfield Church at 1.05pm. The Choral Scholars with organist Niall Kinsella, provided exquisite music not only at the Mass but also, afterwards, at Cluain Óg, the UCD Remembrance Garden, 
where we had a short ritual of placing the stones around a candle that was lit as the Choral Scholars sang 'Abide With Me' and the words of Jesus were said: 'I am the light of the world. He who follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life'. The candle will remain lighted throughout the month of November.Tea + coffee + home-made scones were available afterwards in St. Stephen's Chaplaincy where we gathered to chat and enjoy one another's company.
Congratulations to Scott Ahearn, SU Welfare Officer, for setting this initiative in motion and carrying it to a successful conclusion. Thanks too to the Student Advisers and Chaplains for their collaboration in this touching and very consoling initiative. Word of Life
Learning to put the Gospel into practice in everyday life.
Organised by Fr Brendan Purcell and Fr John McNerney (Chaplaincy), it is based on the spirituality of the Focolare movement (http://www.focolare.ie/). The group takes a line from the gospel each month and tries to live it; at its root the quote will always be about loving one's neighbour. The group then shares experiences of trying to live the gospel and love one's neighbour.
Where: G005, Arts (Newman) Building.
All Welcome
Newman
The Life and Works of John Henry Newman - Dr. Teresa Iglesias.
St. Stepehen's chaplaincy (opp. no. 10 bus terminus). Tuesday 20 Oct., 7pm. Wonderful evening. Excellent exposé of Newman. And Leon won the new publication of Newman's The Idea of a University, edited by Teresa Iglesias!
Food4Soul, Food4Body
Oct. 21st at 5.30pm (ecumenical prayer) and 6pm (food and fellowship) studentat St. Stephen's chaplaincy (opposite no. 10 bus terminus). All welcome.
Small group this time because of mid-term exams. But still, a lovely prayer session and delicious food afterwards. The troops were happy!