Saint MacNissi's Church
Randalstown
24 Hours of Prayer for Vocations
Date Posted: Friday 17th July 2026
On the Feast of St John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests, we warmly invite the faithful from across the Diocese to join us for 24 Hours of Prayer for Vocations to the Diocesan Priesthood.
The vigil will begin with Holy Mass at 7pm on Monday, 3 August, and conclude with Holy Mass at 7pm on Tuesday, 4 August.
Throughout the 24 hours, the Blessed Sacrament will be exposed for Eucharistic Adoration. Priests will be available at various times during the night to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation, offering an opportunity to encounter the Lord’s mercy as we pray together.
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We especially invite our parishes, prayer groups, schools, religious communities, youth groups, families, and individuals to come, whether for a few minutes or a longer period, to pray that the Lord of the harvest will continue to raise up generous men to serve His people as diocesan priests.
St John Vianney once said, “The priesthood is the love of the Heart of Jesus.” As we celebrate his feast, let us unite in asking the Lord to inspire new vocations and to strengthen those already called to serve.
Whether you can stay for an hour, join us for Mass, or simply drop in to pray, your presence and your prayers will make a real difference. All are welcome. Please email Fr Conor - c.mcgrath@downandconnor.org.
Fuaimlaoi in Concert
Date Posted: Tuesday 4th August 2026
Thursday 6th August
7:00pm
St Peter’s Cathedral
Experience the soul of Ireland with Fuaimlaoi - a captivating ensemble that blends ancient Irish tradition with powerful sacred music by renowned Irish liturgical composer Ronan McDonagh.
Their rich harmonies, lyrical beauty and authentic spirit create a deeply moving concert experience, connecting audiences with Ireland’s heritage, faith and timeless song. This unforgettable performance is sure to be one of the highlights of the Fleadh Belfast Fringe programme.
Tickets: £5.50
Book now: https://fleadhfringe.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173683951
You can also pay at the door
Don't miss this special evening of music in the stunning surroundings of St Peter’s Cathedral.
Suicide Awareness Talks
Date Posted: Thursday 23rd July 2026
Fresh Minds Education are offering 1-hour "Connections" suicide awareness talks for adults and youth. These brief sessions teach foundational skills to spot warning signs, confidently approach the topic of suicide, keep someone safe for now, and connect them to essential local support networks.
DATE: Monday 27th July 2026 (CHILDREN'S 13-16yrs)
Time: 6:30pm - 8pm
Venue: St MacNissi's Parish Hall, Randalstown
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DATE: Monday 3rd August (ADULTS)
TIME: 6:30pm - 8pm
Venue: St MacNissi's Parish Hall, Randalstown
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The sessions have been organised by Dunsilly Horizons in response to concerns identified by young people about the impact of suicide within their community.
Admission is free.
Job Opportunity: Youth Minister
Date Posted: Tuesday 7th July 2026
Down and Connor Diocesan Trust are seeking to recruit into this exciting new role of ‘Youth Minister’, to work within St Colmcille’s Parish, collaborating with the teams within the wider Family of Parishes, to align youth ministry with the
broader mission of the parishes.
Closing date: Tuesday 28th July 2026
Cemetery Sunday at Cranfield
Date Posted: Monday 29th June 2026
Cemetery Sunday at the historic Cranfield Church (the ancient 13th-century ruined church and cemetery located on the shores of Lough Neagh in County Antrim) is a deeply cherished local tradition.
The annual Mass and Blessing of the Graves, which was celebrated on Sunday, 28 June 2026, regularly draws hundreds of families together to remember loved ones. Having the service led by Canon John Forsythe—who recently celebrated his Golden Jubilee —made the occasion even more significant for the parish community. St MacNissi’s Folk Group, led by Maire Darragh, provided the music for the Mass.
The Blessing of the Boats immediately following the service is a particularly poignant and unique local custom. This blessing highlights the close connection between the local community, its heritage, and the surrounding waters.
While the weather was blustery, the rain stayed away in keeping with tradition. Afterwards a traditional music session was held at the Cranfield Inn.
Canon John Presented With Papal Blessing
Date Posted: Sunday 28th June 2026
This morning, at 10am Mass, the Trainor family, representing our Parish faith community, presented Canon John with a Papal Blessing acknowledging his fifty years of faithful service. The congregation applauded as he lifted the framed blessing for all to see. We pray for God’s continued blessings on his ministry and thank Canon John for his devotion to our Parish.
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Associate Pilgrims for Lourdes 2026
Date Posted: Monday 1st June 2026
Down & Connor Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2026
We invite those who are unable to travel with us to Lourdes to join us in prayer during the days of our pilgrimage.
We remember all our associate pilgrims in prayer each day of the pilgrimage and leave the names of all those enrolled at the feet of Our Lady at the Grotto of Massabielle.
Lourdes Pilgramage Fund Appeal
Date Posted: Monday 1st June 2026
Please consider helping us to continue helping bring pilgrims in need of support and care to Lourdes Your donation means that we can continue to offer support for our sick pilgrims & volunteers' fares and provide the necessary material and equipment needed to provide care
Clonad Solemn Novena
Date Posted: Monday 8th June 2026
In honour of our Mother of Perpetual Help.
Weekdays: 6.45am, 9.30am, 11.30am, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm
Saturday and Sunday: 6.45am, 9.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm
Sacrament of the sick: Saturday 20th June at 9.30am, 11.30am and 6pm
Procession in Thanksgiving to Our Mother of Perpetual Help: after the final 8pm Mass on Thursday 25th June
Canon John Forsythe's Golden 50th Anniversary
Date Posted: Friday 5th June 2026
A celebration of Canon John Forsythe's Golden 50th Anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood will be held on Friday 12th June 2026 at 7pm in St MacNissi's Church in Randalstown, followed by refreshments in the Parish Centre.
All welcome
Sacred Heart Novena
Date Posted: Monday 25th May 2026
Down & Connor Diocesan Novena to The Sacred Heart
June 4th to June 12th, the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
It is with great joy as a diocese we celebrate the Novena to The Sacred Heart. The Sacred Heart Novena invites you to nine days of prayer, cumulating in the celebration of the Feast of the Sacred Heart. Come to Me. These words of Jesus are among the most tender in all of the Gospels. They are not a command but an invitation - offered freely, offered personally, offered to each one of us.
To set aside time each day for prayer is to say yes to that invitation.
It is a simple act, yet a profound one. In the busyness of our lives - with all their demands, their joys, and their anxieties - to pause and turn our hearts toward Jesus is itself a form of love.
Saying Goodbye Remembrance Service
Date Posted: Monday 18th May 2026
A service for anyone who has lost a baby in pregnancy, at birth or in early years.
St Anne's Cathedral, Belfast
Sunday 14th June at 3.30pm
Cemetery Sunday
Date Posted: Sunday 3rd May 2026
Cemetery Sunday takes place on 7th June 2026 at 3pm.
Click here to view photos from Cemetery Sunday 2025.
Duneane, Drumaul and Antrim in Early Irish Christianity
Date Posted: Thursday 7th May 2026
Patrick McAteer is giving a talk on Duneane, Drumaul and Antrim in Early Irish Christianity on Thursday 28th May at 7.30pm in the Parish Centre.
Refreshments on arrival.
Admission £5.
May Novena
Date Posted: Thursday 16th April 2026
May Novena in Honour of Our Lady with the theme "Baptised and Sent: The Spirit of God has made his home in you".
St Patrick's Church, Crebilly
Friday 1st May - Saturday 9th May at 7.30pm
All welcome
Apostolic Work, Randalstown Centenary
Date Posted: Thursday 23rd April 2026
As part of the Apostolic Work, Randalstown Centenary celebrations a Fundraising Quiz is taking place on Thursday 14th May in Heffrons Bar at 7.30pm.
Raffle and Light Refreshments.
£5 per person.
Apostolic Work, Randalstown Centenary
Date Posted: Thursday 23rd April 2026
As part of the Apostolic Work, Randalstown Centenary celebrations a Fundraising Quiz is taking place on Thursday 14th May in Heffrons Bar at 7.30pm.
Raffle and Light Refreshments.
£5 per person.
Holy Relic of Saint Padre Pio
Date Posted: Tuesday 14th April 2026
Celebration of Mass and Blessing with the Holy Relic of Saint Padre Pio.
Thursday 23rd April at 7pm
St Matthew's Church, Belfast
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An Evening with
Dr Yousef Aljamal
Date Posted: Wednesday 15th April 2026
The BJC with Christians 4 Palestine is pleased to welcome Gazan Palestinian writer and academic Dr Yousef M. Aljaimal - editor of If I Must Die, the recently published collection of poetry and prose by his close friend, Refaat Alareer. Dr Aljamal will reflect on Refaat's life, witness, and words, as well as his own experience of working as coordinator of the Palestine Activism Program with American Friends Service Committee; a Quaker organisation dedicated to peacebuilding and human rights.
Monday 20th April at 7pm
Belfast Jesuit Centre or via Zoom.
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Pope Francis 1st Anniversary
Date Posted: Tuesday 14th April 2026
Bishop Alan McGuckian SJ will celebrate Mass to mark the First Anniversary of the death of Pope Francis on Tuesday 21st April in St Peter's Cathedral, Belfast at 7pm. All are welcome.
Rosary for World Peace
Date Posted: Thursday 9th April 2026
Prayer Vigil for Peace - Saturday, 11 April from 5.00pm - 6.00pm in Clonard Church.
Responding to Pope Leo’s call for a worldwide prayer vigil for peace to address global violence, especially in the Middle East, Clonard is hosting an hour of prayer including Eucharistic Adoration. All are welcome. This will coincide with Pope Leo’s prayer vigil at St Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City (6pm Rome time, 5pm in Belfast).
Easter Ceremonies 2026
Date Posted: Thursday 2nd April 2026
Holy Thursday
The Lord’s Supper 7pm
Followed by “Keep Watch with Me” in former Church
including Night Prayer at 10pm
Good Friday
The Passion and Death of Our Lord
Adoration of the Holy Cross 3pm
Stations of the Cross - 7pm
Saturday Evening
Easter Vigil - 9pm
Easter Sunday - 10am
The Gospel According to Narnia
Date Posted: Tuesday 14th April 2026
An evening exploring faith, story, and meaning through C.S.Lewis's Narnia.
St John's Parish Hall, Belfast
Sunday 19th April at 7pm
Admission FREE and all welcome.
Migrant Collection
Date Posted: Monday 7th March 2026
A collection in support of migrant people will take place over the weekend of 21st and 22nd March. Funds raised through this collection will be used to support the work of the Council for Migrants, Refugees and Justice and Peace, and other projects that provide pastoral outreach to marginalised and vulnerable communities within Ireland and among Irish people abroad.
Saint MacNissi's Programme for Lent 2026
Date Posted: Thursday 19th February 2026
Tuesday
Exposition 5.30 to 7pm followed by Mass and Lenten Reflections
Wednesday
Go Deeper 7.30pm - Canon McGirr presents a study of the Easter vigil Readings with prayer and Exposition. Please bring a bible.
Friday
The Stations of the Cross 7pm.
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Annual Lenten Retreat led by Fr Gerry Clarke SJ
Saturday 21st March
Venue: Drumalis
9.30 to 4pm
PPC Members will take bookings and payments in the main porch of the church after the Weekend Masses
Recharge Forty
Lenten Challenge
Date Posted: Thursday 28th January 2026
Prayer
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Make a morning offering
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Complete a nightly examination
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Go to daily Mass in addition to Sundays where possible (if not possible, make a visit to the Blessed Sacrament)
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At least 15 minutes of mental prayer each day
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Say the Holy Rosary
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Offer your work/study to God
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Spiritual Reading - The Way (follow plan)
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New Testament - St John's Gospel (follow plan)
Asceticism
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Get up at a fixed time each day
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Go to sleep at a fixed time each day
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Get 8 hours of sleep a night
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Exercise x2 a week
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No unnecessary screen time (no social media)
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No snacking or desserts - just 3 meals a day
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Fast once a week (a day of your choosing)
*On Sundays, you can relax one of the ascetical practices.
Fraternity
• Attend Weekly Meeting
Saint Benedict's College in Randalstown have an opening for a Learning Support Assistant.
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Please contact Roisin on 028 9447 2411 or email rboyd463@c2kni.net for further details.
PARISH YOUTH CLUB UPDATE
TO YOUTHS IN THE PARISH (Year 8 to 12)
Building on the very successful Parish Youth Club of the past and the recent pilot, we are developing a block of events with the first one planned to commence in September 2025 and running for three weeks. This block is planned for Sunday afternoons between 5 and 7pm. Registration and further details will be made available on the parish website, Facebook and other media. Watch this space!
Marriage Encounter Ireland is part of the Worldwide Marriage Encounter movement which is active in over 90 countries. It seeks to offer Matrimonial couples a new and enriched vision for their marriage through the experience of Marriage Encounter and Engaged Encounter weekends. Over 2.5 million couples have attended weekends since the movement started in 1962.
COLLECTIONS FOR MEDJUGORJE
A total of £1558.35 was raised. The generosity and kindness shown by Randalstown parishioners was very humbling. Canon John and all the parishioners will be remembered, especially in our petitions. Thank you sincerely for your support for our children and college.
Family Life Education
Our Hope For The Future
The European Institute of Family Life Education / Institution Europèen d’Education Familiale (EIFLE/IEEF) in association with the Natural Family Planning Teacher Association of Ireland (NFPTAI) are hosting a conference in Knock on Saturday 4th October 2025.
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The title of the conference is: Family, Life and Education: Our Hope for the Future.
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The conference will focus on:
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The importance of cherishing the family as the foundation for a stable society.
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The importance of respecting life from conception to natural death.
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The importance of ensuring a holistic education and lifelong learning to nurture the growth and development of all members of the family intellectually, psychologically, socially and spiritually.​
Parish Draw
Message For All Promotors
Over the last year we have been asked by many parishioners to run another Parish Draw.
This is a great way to support our Parish and have some fun at the same time. However, several of our key promoters have already told us that they don’t want to be going around houses collecting money each month so bearing this in mind the usual promotion of the Draw needs to change.
The NEW Draw will be continuous, ongoing and monthly. (No stopping after a year.)
We have 3 options for buying a ticket:
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Monthly Direct Debit
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12 Months up front (the preferred payment option)
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Once a Month collection at Parish Centre
The ticket cost would remain at £10/month with 10 prizes each month. We still need to encourage people to sign up to the Draw.
We can only run this Draw with the support of the Draw Promoters. Therefore, to gauge support we are inviting all previous promoters
and NEW promoters who would be willing to help sell tickets, either to their family and friends or around their local area to come along to the Parish Centre next Thursday 25th September at 7pm.
We can chat over a cuppa and you can hear more details. I hope I can encourage you to please show your support for proceeding with the draw.
Thank you.
Mark Sweeney
(Chair of the Parish Finance Committee.)
DOWN and CONNOR DIOCESAN TRUST
DIOCESAN CURIA OFFICE
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VACANCY
DIOCESAN ASSISTANT FINANCE OFFICER
An opportunity has arisen within our Finance Team to recruit into the role of Diocesan Assistant Finance Officer. Working closely with our Financial Controller (Parishes), you will be required to provide excellent book-keeping support to the Finance Function within the Diocesan Trust. We see this as an exciting and challenging opportunity to play an integral part within the Diocesan Finance Team, where the role holder will undertake relevant transactional financial duties, through the implementation of robust and accurate accounting treatments and processes.
The terms are based on a permanent appointment for 35 hours per week. Monday to Friday from 9.00am – 5.00pm.
Salary: Will be considered within the range of £28,000 to £32,000 gross per annum – commensurate upon experience.
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Full details relating to the vacancy can be found on the Diocesan website at: http://www.downandconnor.org clicking on the tab: JOB VACANCIES and on the Community NI and nijobs.com websites, where terms and conditions relating to the role can also be accessed by way of a Role Profile and Employment Application form. We welcome applications from anyone who feels they meet the criteria as presented and are interested in playing an active role within the finance function of the Diocese of Down and Connor.
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Closing date for applications will be 12.00 noon on Tuesday 23 September 2025
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Down and Connor Diocesan Trust is an Equal Opportunities Employer
OPENING MASS FOR THE SEASON OF CREATION
6.00pm on Sunday 31st August in St. Patrick’s Church, Donegall Street, Belfast
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Celebrant: Fr Tom Layden SJ, with interfaith contributions.
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This Mass marks the beginning of the Season of Creation (1 Sept–4 Oct), a time when Christians worldwide commit to prayer and action for our common home under the theme “Peace with Creation”.
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1st September is also World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. In his message for the occasion, Pope Leo said, “Now is the time to follow words with deeds. “Living our vocation to be protectors of God’s handiwork is essential to a life of virtue; it is not an optional or a secondary aspect of our Christian experience” (Laudato Si’, 217)”.
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Season of creation
Please see website for Seminar information.
