Feast Days during the week

Monday 7th, St. Colman (of Dromore), Co. Down. Spent most of his life in that area. Possibly studied under Caelan of Nendrom, Co. Down and was persuaded by St. MacNissi to settle at Dromore c. 514.

Wednesday 9th, St. Columba (Colum Cille), abbot and missionary, Secondary Patron of Ireland was born in Gartan, Co. Donegal, in 521 and was of royal lineage. He studied under St. Finnian of Moville and St. Finnian of Clonard. He founded monasteries in Derry, Durrow, Iona and possibly Kells. He left Ireland, either for penance or to be a pilgrim of Christ, but Iona became his principal foundation. From it missionaries undertook the conversion of Northumbria. Columba is noted for his great love for people and for all living creatures. He died the 9 June 597.

Thursday 10th, St. Ephrem the Syrian (c.306-373). A native of Mesopotamia, he became a monk and deacon near Edessa in Turkey. He wrote commentaries on scripture amd several hymns which were later included in the liturgy, he defended the faith against heresy and encouraged devotion to Our Lady. He is one of the Doctors of the Church.

Friday 11th, The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Saturday 12th, The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary.