Newry Parish Cathedral held a novena to St Carlo Acutis titled ‘Growing in Faith’ from October 4-12. On each of the nine evenings, a different speaker addressed the congregation, and a first-class relic was present at every Mass. The Knights of St Columbanus assisted in the candlelight procession on October 12. Photo: Mark G. Byrne. Canon Francis Brown
Our recent nine-day Novena in honour of St Carlo Acutis at Newry Cathedral was a wonderful celebration of faith, bringing together people of all ages for prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal.
Throughout the Novena, we were privileged to welcome inspirational speakers whose personal testimonies reminded us that faith can transform lives and that holiness is within everyone’s reach.
Fr Anthony Moffett shared his remarkable journey from adventure and worldly success to discovering his vocation to the priesthood, while Allen Jophin, a medical student at Queen’s University Belfast, challenged us to use technology for good, always placing love and human relationships first.
Former Dublin GAA star Ger Brennan reflected on faith, family and community, encouraging parents to nurture faith in their children. Sr Karen Small reminded us of our identity as children of God and the importance of prayer in everyday life.
Fiona Rutherford’s deeply emotional testimony demonstrated the transforming power of God’s mercy, forgiveness and unconditional love. Seamus Ong shared his extensive knowledge and deep devotion to St Carlo, helping us understand the extraordinary spirituality of this young saint.
Marie Patton from Derry spoke movingly about her journey through difficult times and how devotion to Our Lady, St Carlo and Sr Clare brought strength, comfort and renewed faith.
Fiona McAlinden, Principal of Our Lady’s Grammar School, reflected on the remarkable 150-year tradition of Mercy education, nurturing generations of young women in faith and Christian values.
The Novena concluded with James Doran’s inspiring reflection, ‘Becoming Saints Together’, reminding us that sainthood is not reserved for extraordinary individuals. Through prayer, the Eucharist, kindness and everyday acts of love, we are all called to holiness.
Reflecting on the nine days, I would offer this simple message: “What made this Novena so special was the diversity of voices and experiences, yet every speaker brought us back to the same truth: God’s love is present in ordinary lives, and each of us is called to become a saint in our own way.”
I extend my sincere gratitude to our speakers, clergy, Knights of St Columbanus, Parish Pastoral Council, Schools in the Parish, volunteers and everyone who participated in this wonderful celebration.