Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
A rather unusual Sower goes out to sow, but does not care where the seed falls. He throws the seeds even where it is unlikely they will bear fruit: on the path, on the rocks, among the thorns. This attitude surprises the listener and induces him to ask: how come? We are used to calculating things – and at times it is necessary – but this does not apply in love! The way in which this ‘wasteful’ Sower throws the seed is an image of the way God loves us. Indeed, it is true that the destiny of the seed depends also on the way in which the earth welcomes it and the situation in which it finds itself, but first and foremost in this parable Jesus tells us that God throws the seed of his Word on all kinds of soil, that is, in any situation of ours: at times we are more superficial and distracted, at times we let ourselves get carried away by enthusiasm, sometimes we are burdened by life’s worries, but there are also times when we are willing and welcoming. God is confident and hopes that sooner or later the seed will blossom. This is how he loves us: he does not wait for us to become the best soil, but he always generously gives us his word. Perhaps by seeing that he trusts us, the desire to be better soil will be kindled in us. This is hope, founded on the rock of God’s generosity and mercy. Pope Leo
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Anniversaries This Weekend 26th July 2026
Borris-in-Ossory
Mass 11.00 a.m.
Joseph Thompson,
Jim Kelly,
Patrick Houlihan,
John Delaney,
Peggy Hogan, Coolowley,
Joe Nolan and all the deceased members of the Nolan and Ryan Family
Knockaroo
Mass 9.30 a.m.
Patrick (Paddy) Delaney, Kyledellig
Killasmeestia
Mass Friday 31st July at 7.30 p.m.
Carol Sinnott
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Anniversaries Next Weekend 2nd August 2026
Next weekend there will be one priest looking after three parishes.
There will be one Mass in Camross, Castletown and Borris-in-Ossory.
No Masses in other Churches.
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St. Vincent de Paul Collection
The monthly collection for St Vincent de Paul will take place at all Masses next weekend 2nd August
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Annual Garden Party
Borris Innovation Centre will be holding their Annual Garden Party in the Old Convent Gardens on Sunday 16th August 2026 from 2.00 p.m. Live music, Games, Raffle and much more on the day. Fun for all the family planned. Ticket €5 available locally.
All Are Welcome.
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Knock Pilgrimage
Borris-in-Ossory Parish Annual Pilgrimage to Knock will take place on Thursday the 20th August. Please contact Marie Power 087 9766248 for details.
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Eucharistic Ministers Next Weekend 2 August
Borris-in-Ossory SUNDAY 11.00 a.m.
Sr. Regina,
Kay Dowling,
Marie Kelly,
Julie Kirwan
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Church Reader Next Weekend 2 August -
Borris-in-Ossory SUNDAY 11.00 a.m.
Pauline Gardiner
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Hopes, concerns and priorities on the Synodal Pathway
Even as consensus emerged on many fronts, inherent divergences also remained in the listening process. While many called for greater inclusion of women in decision-making roles, and for their ordination to the diaconate or priesthood, others voiced discomfort or offered alternative solutions: ‘Many voiced a strong opinion on the need for women in ministry while others, a small but vocal minority, insisted that the best way forward was a male diaconate and foreign priests, however the differences in culture was cited as a major obstacle. ‘Views ranged from acceptance of the current exclusion, while requesting clear explanations: ‘Some expressed acceptance of the exclusion of women to ordination while asking that people be told why this is so,’ to calls for greater inclusion: ‘On the role of women, strong support for expanded participation (including diaconate) coexisted with some expressing a view that current roles were sufficient. ‘Some saw the persistence of the theme as a step forward, while others saw its continued resurfacing as inadequate or patronising. Divergences were often tied to theological interpretations, cultural differences, and the pace of change. Others linked the discussion to trust and transparency, noting ‘lack of trust was also partly present in relation to women and the absence of reference to ordination to the diaconate.’ Liam Bergin
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