Bearing Witness
It goes without saying that preparing for exams requires study question practise time management and getting a good frame of mind. One tried and trusted part of getting the attitude and frame of mind right is with meditation and prayer.
The prayers speak for themselves and one can see the prayers published in newspapers as a way of acknowledging their benefit. Prayers like these are not magic formulae to get an angel to whisper the correct answer into your ear but they help you to a “good frame of mind”.
Prayer to St Joseph of Cupertino
O most Holy St. Joseph of Cupertino, who by praying at your exams were asked questions you knew, Intercede and Pray that I may be granted a similar favour. In return, I will endeavour to make your name known and loved. Amen.
Prayer to St Jude
O most Holy St. Jude, the name of the traitor who delivered your beloved master to the hands of His enemies has caused you to be forgotten by many. But the Church honours you as the patron of hopeless cases –of things almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the help and consolation of heaven in all my trials and tribulations and particularly in this great need (name your intention). In return O most Holy St. Jude, I promise to make your name known and loved throughout the world. Amen.
Prayer to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
May the most sacred heart of Jesus be adored, loved and praised throughout the whole world today and forever. Amen. (repeat)
Memorare
Remember O Most Gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known, that anyone who fled to thy protection was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence I fly unto Thee, O Virgin of Virgins my mother. To Thee do I come, before Thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O, Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petition (name problem) but graciously hear and answer it. Amen.
Vocations
In these changing times, the vocation to the priesthood is not without its challenges: a priest must be a prophetic pastor in a secular world; he must be prepared to give of himself and guide people under his care.
The role of a priest
The role of a priest is to reflect Christ so that he is continually present to his Church. As daunting as this task sounds, God's grace is rich. God calls ordinary men to the Priesthood to become extraordinarily heroic in their lives. Let us not forget the paradoxical call of Simon to become Peter, the rock upon which Christ would set his Church on earth. God gives us the grace we need to proclaim his Kingdom with our lives.
How do I know if God is calling me?
How do I know if God is calling me? This is difficult to answer, and a willingness even to explore the question takes courage. God loves each and every one of us. He calls us to give of ourselves in love. To some, the gift of self is primarily given to an individual in marriage; to others, the gift of love is to be given to God's Church in Ordination. To be a priest is both an expression of love, and a sacrament of God's grace.
The priest must reflect the love and compassion of Christ for all people. The Eucharist is central to the life of a priest, and the celebration of the Eucharist and the sacraments for the people of God is his principal responsibility.
The Call
God is still calling people to priesthood, but in today’s world it is much more difficult to hear the voice of God. Nobody gets a magical tap on the shoulder from on high, but one may experience an inward desire to serve God and his people through the ministry of priesthood. If you feel that God may be calling you to priesthood, don’t be afraid but have the courage to explore the idea of priesthood in prayer. You can also talk to the College Chaplain who will help you in your discernment. You may decide to proceed with third level studies first, with a view to pursuing studies for the priesthood afterwards.
For further information, contact:
Fr. Kieran Holmes
Chaplain
St. Muredach’s College
096-21298
Our Church
In 1968, the existing Oratory was converted into a Science room and the new Church was built. The President of St Muredach's at the time was Fr Caffrey.
Books of Faith
Click here to download "The Faith of the Catholic Church".
Click hereto download "A Catechism of Catholic Doctrine".