The death has occurred of Nancy (Anne) Stapleton (née Maher) Maudlin Street, Thomastown, Kilkenny / Durrow, Laois

The death has taken place of Nancy (Anne) Stapleton ńee Maher, Maudlin Street Thomastown, Co Kilkenny and formerly of Durrow, Co Laois peacefully at her residence surrounded by her loving family. 20th January 2025.

Predeceased by her Husband John, brothers and sisters and her daughter-in-law Siobhan. Sadly missed by her sons Tony, Peter and Ray, daughters Una, Ann and Sally, Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, Brothers and Sisters-in-law, Sons and daughters-in-law, Nieces and Nephews and extended family and friends.

MAY NANCY REST IN PEACE

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Reflection

The literal meaning of the word, Gospel, is good news. Does this mean that, even as it is spoken, that word becomes truth brimming with joy and mercy. We should never attempt to separate these three graces of the Gospel: its truth, which is non-negotiable; its mercy, which is unconditional and offered to all sinners; and its joy, which is personal and open to everyone.
This message can never be gloomy or indifferent, for it expresses a joy that is completely personal. It is “the joy of the Father, who desires that none of his little ones be lost” (Evangelii Gaudium No 237). It is the joy of Jesus, who sees that the poor have the good news preached to them, and that the little ones go out to preach the message in turn (ibid., 5) The joys of the Gospel are special joys.
I say “joys” in the plural, for they are many and varied, depending on how the Spirit chooses to communicate them, in every age, to every person and in every culture. They need to be poured into new wineskins, the ones the Lord speaks of in expressing the newness of his message.