October: The Month of Our Lady
Devotion to Our Lady in October dates back to Pope Pius V who established the ‘Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary.’ The Feast was originally celebrated on the first Sunday of October each year to mark the Anniversary of the Battle of Lepanto (this battle in 1571 resulted in Christians having greater protection when travelling on the Mediterranean Sea). Pope Pius V gave the feast day a fixed date of October 7th each year.

As we have just begun the month of October, we turn to Our Lady asking her protection and guidance over the coming weeks. During this month, Catholics around the world are encouraged to pray the Rosary daily, reflect on the mysteries of Christ’s life, and seek the intercession of Our Lady. Mary, as our spiritual Mother, who promises to guide us with love and draw us more deeply into the heart of her Son.

As we honour our mother Mary under the title of ‘Our Lady of the Rosary’ we ask her special blessings for those who experience ill health of mind, body or spirit. With this in mind, on Tuesday October 7^th in St. Brigid’s Church in Kill, we will have the Sacrament of Anointing the Sick immediately after the 10am morning Mass. All are welcome, you might like to come along or to bring a friend or neighbour in need of a little blessing.

In this month of October let us take this time to renew our devotion to Mary, entrust her with our intentions, and allow her to lead us in faith, hope, and love.

Fr. Joe O’Neill