PROLOGUE: “To be kind is more important than to be right. Many times, what people need is not a brilliant mind that speaks but a special heart that listens.”
F. Scott Fitzgerald.

DEATHS:  There will be a Month’s Mind Mass on Saturday March 14 in Our Lady of Lourdes, Scartaglen at 10am for Catherine Mc Guirk late of Bantry and Scartaglen who was a sister of Mary Morrissey, Ballymacjordan.

RESCHEDULED CAR BOOT SALE:  We cancelled the first car boot sale because of the orange wind warning so hopefully this will be luckier.  It will take place on Saturday, March 14 at the Rugby Club, The Grove V94 X685.  Gates open for sellers at 8am and for buyers at 9pm.  No animals/fowl.  No unaccompanied children.  Sellers:  Cars, Caddy Vans 10, Hi Ace Vans €15.  Buyers €2.  Contact 087 6866450

AFTERNOON TEA FOR THE PALLIATIVE CARE UNIT:    “ A lovely idea to get a group of friends/ family for afternoon tea at the Devon Inn Hotel in aid of Palliative Care Unit, University Hospital Kerry Sunday March, 29  at 2pm . In memory of family friends gone too soon.  A great evening guaranteed & supporting such a wonderful cause.    Tickets € 25.

AGM: West Limerick 102fm Community Radio Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held in the Longcourt  House Hotel on Monday, March 30  at 7pm.  All are welcome

HARNETT/HEALY 100^th ANNIVERSARY:  Sunday, September 20 next at 6.05pm we intend to mark the centenary of the murders of these two men by Thomas D. Huckerby of the Black and Tans.  We are asking that family and friends will take this as advance notice and notify people abroad.

TALK ON BEEKEEPING;  Wednesday night, March 14 at the Day Care Centre with Seamus Quinlan at 7pm.  Admission €5.  Raffle and refreshments.

ABBEYFEALE’S NIGHT AT THE OSKARS: Less than 30 tickets left on sale to the Abbeyfeale’s Night at the OsKaRs in the Devon Inn on Friday, March 20.  Get them from Jane at the Day Care Centre.   Fundraisers include: Wednesday, March 11 we have a talk on bee keeping and saving the bumble bee in the Day Care Centre from 7-9pm, a fun dancing competition at the Railway on the Friday, March 13 and the rescheduled Car Boot Sale at the Rugby Club is on Saturday March 14 from 9-1pm followed on the Sunday by the Rugby Match at the grounds.  Also on Saturday night there will be an Art and Prosecco Night in the Day Care Centre.  Then on Monday there is an Over 30’s soccer match against Carrickerry at the grounds at 7.30pm and a Donkey Derby at JD’s at 9pm.

RAMBLING HOUSE:  Following on from the great success of the first Rambling House in the Day Care Centre it has been decided to have one monthly with the proceeds going to the Day Care and Sheltered Housing.  This month it will take place on Saturday, March 28 from 8pm but will probably revert to the last Friday night of the month subsequently.

CRAFTY CORNER:  Tuesday nights from 7-9pm in St. Ita’s Hall.  Knitting, crochet and tea.

SALE OF PRE LOVED CLOTHES:  A sale will be held at the Day Care Centre on Saturday, March 28 from 10-2pm with all proceeds to Abbeyfeale’s Night at the OsKaRs.

WEST LIMERICK SINGING CLUB: The club meet on the first Friday of each month in Philip Enrights ‘The Ramble Inn’, Church Street from 9pm.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY ALERT: The latest scam are emails offering you a cure for the Coronavirus.  Don’t even click on them only press delete.  Keep washing your hands, try not to touch your face and drink loads of water. Never, ever give your password or confirm personal details to anyone on the phone or on email.    Remember that there is a faceless person sitting at a computer somewhere in the world hoping to relieve you of your hard earned cash so disappoint them by not reacting.   Ring Abbeyfeale Gardai on 068 30010 (Three hundred ten) if you have concerns.  Keep your eircode by the phone, if the emergency services have to come to your house then this will send them directly to your door.  When you reach the age of 65 and live alone or with a person/s aged over 65 you are entitled to receive a monitored alarm system. But if you have younger people living in the house who are out for long periods of the day then,  because you are spending hours alone you are also entitled to the system provided that you are over 65.  The free equipment is provided by Pobal following an application from Abbeyfeale Community Alert, there will be a monitoring fee to be paid from the second year of installation to the installing company of €72.  Please note that this fee has increased by €6 and is payable in a lump sum each year after year one.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month payable from day one.  Then, in year two you will also receive a bill for the monitoring fee so in year one the bill will be €90 and in year two and every other year after it will €162 approx.  Committee members are Michael O’Kelly N.T., Seamus Stack, Mossie Gleeson, Kathleen Collins, Mary McArthur, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Catherine Daly, Marian Harnett.

WEST LIMERICK TOASTMASTERS:  Develop your speaking skills and your self confidence at West Limerick Toastmasters.  First and third Wednesday of the month September – June in the Desmond Complex from 8 – 10pm.  New members welcome.  Contact Charles 087 7972855.

ABBEYFEALE BOOK CLUB:  St. Ita’s Hall, the second Wednesday of each month September – June from 7.30 -9pm.   All welcome.  Refreshments served.

HELPLINES:  Limerick Social Services:  061-314111.    AA   061/311222 Al-Anon 086/8143425. Parent Support worker 068/31019.  Accord NCW 069/61000.   Samaritans Freephone 116123 or text 087/2609090 or email [email protected] Aware (Depression & Anxiety) 1980 303 302 National Suicide Helpline (Pieta House) 1800 247 247 Irish Advocacy Network (Peer advocacy in mental health) 01 872 8684 Pieta House (Suicide & self-harm) 01 623 5606 IACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy) 01 230 3536 Shine: (Supporting people effected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 A  l-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560 .  Counselling Appointment    061/314213.

HELPLINE FOR MEN SUFFERING DOMESTIC ABUSE:  A new helpline has been set up and will operate 36 hours a week on 1800816588.   AnyMan is a support service specifically for men and they offer advice for men dealing with domestic abuse situations.  Contact them on 01 5543811.

GROW COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH MOVEMENT IN IRELAND.   Meet on Wednesday’s at 8pm in the Seanchaí Centre, Listowel. This programme is open to all and is free of charge. No introductions needed. Just come along. For more information, contact Jerry, 086 0271990.

COMMUNITY SUBSTANCE MISUSE TEAM:  A free and confidential service for under 18’s and their families impacted by substance misuse is provided on the first Wednesday of the month in St. Ita’s Hall from 2.30pm – 5pm.  Contact Kristeen Laing 086 4141854.

HAVEN:  If you have a problem with alcohol or drugs you are welcome to join a confidential group called Haven who meet on Thursday nights from 7 – 8.30pm in the parish office.  For further information contact 087 7662865/087 4270374.

FREE HSE-RUN EVENING COURSE FOR PEOPLE WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES in Killarney starting on March 11 and every Wednesday evening thereafter for 4 weeks from 5.30-8pm. Ph: 064-6670763 or 087 1234035.

SUICIDE FIRST-AID: A two-day workshop focusing on skills building in the area of suicide first-aid will take place at the Listowel Family Resource Centre on March 11/12 next. The ASSIST programme is designed to provide participants with opportunities to learn what a person at risk may need from others in order to keep safe and get more help. It encourages honest, open and direct talk about suicide as part of preparing people to provide suicide first aid. The programme runs from 9am-5pm daily. To book, log on to https://bookwhen.com/suicideprevention-trainingkerry

MICHEAL ENGLISH COMES TO DUAGH:  Sean O’Dowd will be the support act in Duagh with Micheal English on Friday March 27.  Book your tickets at €25 on 087 2684540.  This fundraiser will help finish the work on the Duagh Sports and Leisure Centre.  Full bar facilities, tea and coffee available. Lots of spot prizes on the night.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH:  Fr Tony Mullins PP 087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674. Fr Denis Mullane 087/2621911. Fr Shoji Vargihese      089/4431922 Parish Church 068/51915. Parish Office; Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. (068) 31133    Email: [email protected]   Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm. Daily Mass 10am Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday except in the event of a funeral when Mass will be at 11am.   Saturday Morning Mass at 11am.  Mass Intentions Saturday 11am Michael Corbert   Daughter Margaret & Patrick   & Margaret  & Jack O’Sullivan.   6.30pm  Ned & Peg Leahy, Millstream, their son Emmet and daughter Ita and deceased family members.  Jerry O’Connor & Thomas O’Connor.  Sunday 9.15am   Sean, Margaret & Lukeen Scannell. The Hill.  12noon   Kitty Fitzgerald, The Railway Bar.  Stations of the Cross will take place before Mass every Friday during Lent at approx. 9.40am.  Adoration continues on Monday to Friday from 9am- 9pm.

MASS TIMES IN THE PASTORAL AREA UNIT:  Abbeyfeale – Saturday 6.30pm   and    Sunday   9.15am & 12noon.    Athea -   Saturday 7.30pm and Sunday 10.30am. Mountcollins   – Saturday 7.30pm  Templeglantine – Saturday 6pm and Sunday 10.00 am.  Tournafulla    -   Sunday 11am

LENTEN DAY OF RECOLLECTION:  Redemptorist Monastery, Limerick on Tuesday, March 31 starting at 11am with coffee at 10.30am and closing at 4pm.  It will be facilitated by Fr. Raphael Gallagher, CSSR.

RAMBLING HOUSES:   Monagae 2^nd. Monday of the month.   Knockalougha, Duagh on the third Tuesday of every month.

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PROLOGUE:  Rest when you’re weary. Refresh and renew yourself, your body, your mind, your spirit. Then get back to work.”
Ralph Marston

DEATHS:  Sincere sympathy is offered to the family of the late Patricia Merrigan, Kilconlea Upper who died recently.  May she rest in peace.  Sincere sympathies too to the family of the late Dan Aherne, Blarney and late of Farrenfore whose funeral took place in Cork last weekend.  There will be a Month’s Mind Mass on Saturday March 14 in Our Lady of Lourdes,  Scartaglen  at 10am for Catherine Mc Guirk late of Bantry and Scartaglen who was a sister of Mary Morrissey, Ballymacjordan.

HARNETT/HEALY 100^th ANNIVERSARY:  Sunday, September 20 next at 6.05pm we intend to mark the centenary of the murders of these two men by Huckleberry of the Black and Tans and are asking that family and friends will take this as advance notice and notify people abroad.

ST.  PATRICK’S DAY PARADE:  Preparations are continuing for the Abbeyfeale St Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade will start in Mountmahon at 4pm on Tuesday  March 17and will be led by the Rathkeale Brass Band. It will proceed down Main Street and past the reviewing stand in The Square. There will be prizes for Best Float and Best Decorated Window. Templeglantine Comhaltas will provide entertainment in The Square before the parade.  A meeting will be held in St Ita’s Hall on next Monday, March 9 at 7pm to discuss further arrangements. All are welcome.

ABBEYFEALE’S NIGHT AT THE OSKARS: The countdown has begun, excitement is building – guna’s being purchased, shoes softened out, hairdressers and beauticians appointments to be made,  all because the social event of the year will take place in less than 3 weeks.  Tickets on sale to the Abbeyfeale’s Night at the OsKaRs  in the Devon Inn on Friday, March 20 from the Day Care Office.  Fundraising has taken on a life of its own; Wednesday, March 4 Martin O’Mahoney from Ballyvourney Nurseries will give a gardening talk at the Day Care Centre from 7-9pm with a plant sale, raffle and refreshments followed on Friday night March 6 by Philip Enright’s Singing Club, Leens Hotel hosting the Lost Souls for a Gin and Easy Listening Night and JD’s a Poker Classic the same night.  There’s a pop up restaurant in the Day Care on Saturday night and then on Sunday, an Afternoon Tea Dance with Mike Condon in Fr. Casey’s.  The week after we have a talk on bee keeping and saving the bumble bee in the Day Care Centre on the Wednesday night, March 11, a fun dancing competition at the Railway on the Friday, March 13 with loads more to come.

LENTEN DAY OF RECOLLECTION:  Redemptorist Monastery, Limerick on Tuesday, March 31 starting at 11am with coffee at 10.30am and closing at 4pm.  It will be facilitated by Fr. Raphael Gallagher, CSSR.

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MEN SUFFERING DOMESTIC ABUSE:  AnyMan is a support service specifically for men and they offer advice for men dealing with domestic abuse situations.  Contact them on 01 5543811.

CRAFTY CORNER:  Tuesday nights from 7-9pm in St. Ita’s Hall.  Knitting, crochet and tea.

AFTERNOON TEA FOR A GREAT CAUSE: Sunday March 29 at 2pm you are invited to get together with some friends and have afternoon tea at the Devon in aid of Palliative Care Unit, University Hospital Kerry. In memory of family friends gone too soon. A great afternoon guaranteed & supporting such a wonderful cause. Tickets  € 25 per person  and available at the following locations; Devon Inn Hotel ,Templeglantine,  Heavenly Gifts, AbbeyfealCut N Curl, Abbeyfeale , Pat Buckley’s Shop, Templeglantine,  Fuschia, Abbeyfeale, Modini, Newcastlewest,  JK Sports , Listowel “.

MICHEAL ENGLISH COMES TO DUAGH:  Sean O’Dowd will be the support act in Duagh with Micheal English on Friday March 25.  Book your tickets at €25 on 087 2684540.  This fundraiser will help finish the work on the Duagh Sports and Leisure Centre.  Full bar facilities, tea and coffee available. Lots of spot prizes on the night.

AFTERNOON TEA DANCE:  Sunday, March 8 at Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse from 3-6pm with dancing to Mike Condon.  Raffle, teas served, Admission €5.  All proceeds to St. Ita’s Day Care and Sheltered Housing.

GLÓRACH:  All on a bit of high here at the Glórach Theatre after the electric performance of Jon Kenny in Crowman last Friday.  No time to rest on our laurels, however, and the in-house drama group are busy at work on our production of the play The Iron Harp.  Written by Joseph O’Connor, (no connection to the modern day novelist), the play is a powerful indictment of man’s inhumanity to man.  Set over the course of two days during the War of Independence, this is a story that will truly grab your attention from the start.  Have moved to rehearsing on the stage now, with a plethora of props that firmly root the play in its time-frame of 1920.  Not to be missed, we are looking forward to opening on Thursday, April 2.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY ALERT: When you reach the age of 65 and live alone or with a person/s aged over 65 you are entitled to receive a monitored alarm system. But if you have younger people living in the house who are out for long periods of the day then,  because you are spending hours alone you are also entitled to the system provided that you are over 65.  The free equipment is provided by Pobal following an application from Abbeyfeale Community Alert, there will be a monitoring fee to be paid from the second year of installation to the installing company of €72.  Please note that this fee has increased by €6 and is payable in a lump sum each year after year one.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month payable from day one.  Then, in year two you will also receive a bill for the monitoring fee so in year one the bill will be €90 and in year two and every other year after it will €162 approx.  Committee members are Michael O’Kelly N.T., Seamus Stack, Mossie Gleeson, Kathleen Collins, Mary McArthur, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Catherine Daly, Marian Harnett.

he latest scam are emails offering you a cure for the Coronavirus.  Don’t even click on them only press delete. Remember that there is a faceless person sitting at a computer somewhere in the world hoping to relieve you of your hard earned cash so disappoint them by not reacting.   Ring Abbeyfeale Gardai on 068 30010 (Three hundred ten) if you have concerns over callers/ travelling salesmen, if the phone is unattended the call will be answered in NCW and the local squad car will be notified BOTTLE TOPS:  The adult education centre in Mountmahon are collecting bottle tops for an art project and would appreciate if you would drop yours into either the centre or into St. Ita’s Hall over the next few weeks.

SAN RITA WELLNESS:  Friday mornings in St. Ita’s Hall from 10-11am.  Contact 087 6718377.

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RING OF KERRY CHARITY CYCLE 2020:  Please Cycle for New Alzheimer’s day care unit, Listowel / North Kerry area. To register online for Ard Chúram, Listowel. Tel: 0879521324 email: [email protected]

SICAP ABBEYFEALE PARENT & TODDLER GROUP: 11am – 12.30pm every Tuesday only, St Ita’s Hall. New people always welcome. Suitable for parents/care givers and children aged birth to 4 years including children attending pre-school. This group is an opportunity to meet other parents and play time with your baby/toddler. This is a free service and priority is given to those in receipt of social welfare payment or living in social housing.  Contact Mary, at West Limerick Resources CLG, on 087 9382883.

RURAL SOCIAL SCHEME (RSS):  We are Hiring. West Limerick Resources CLG currently have vacancies on the Rural Social Scheme (RSS). The Scheme supports low income farmers/fisherpersons. It provides support and delivers services within local communities.  RSS gives participants the opportunity to gain and develop new skills in an environment with like-minded people from your community and work on projects in your locality, helps with reducing social isolation and gives the opportunity for the sharing of knowledge and skills. Presently, participation for new entrants to the scheme is for a maximum of 6 years. Who is eligible? Farmers or Fisherpersons who are in receipt of a means tested social welfare payment e.g. Farm Assist/Jobseekers Allowance.  Have an active herd number and copy of EU Basic payment Application. Dependent spouse/children/siblings of a qualifying person are also permitted to participate in the scheme. Working hours: participants work 19.5 hours per week on days and hours agreed at commencement. Payment: a top up is provided to a participant’s social welfare payment which is based upon their individual circumstances. For more information please contact Newcastle West office: 069 61316 or Tom Wilmoth 087 932 9469 / Michelle McCarthy 085 105 0027, Email: [email protected]

TOP SHOWBANDS PLAY ST. PATRICK’S DAY EVE: Musicians Shaun O’Dowd, Gina of  the Champions, and the Conquerors will perform live at the Rathkeale Community Council’s Trinity Concert. This fun fundraiser takes place on St. Patrick’s Day eve, Monday the 16th of March, at 8:30 pm in the Rathkeale Community Centre. Tickets are €25 each and are available online at the Rathkeale Community Centre office, O’Gairbhi’s Newsagents, Scanlon Auctioneers and online – see rathkeale.com/concert.

COMMUNITY SUBSTANCE MISUSE TEAM:  A free and confidential service for under 18’s and their families impacted by substance misuse is provided on the first Wednesday of the month in St. Ita’s Hall from 2.30pm – 5pm.  Contact Kristeen Laing 086 4141854.

HAVEN:  If you have a problem with alcohol or drugs you are welcome to join a confidential group called Haven who meet on Thursday nights from 7 – 8.30pm in the parish office.  For further information contact 087 7662865/087 4270374.

APHASIA CAFÉ:  Are you experiencing language difficulties after a stroke?   The HSE in partnership with Kerry Stroke Support Group are commencing a Monthly Aphasia Café in Ballygarry House Hotel starting Wednesday, March 4 from 10.30 to 12 p.m.   A Speech & Language Therapist will attend each meeting.   066 7199730 for further details.

CALLING ALL TEACHERS, STUDENTS AND PARENTS! World Vision Ireland’s Climate Change essay competition 2020 is opened until March 31 for children between the ages of 8 and 18. The winning essay writer will get the chance to meet Ryan Tubridy in the RTE Studios and will also win a €500 Smyths toy voucher.

For more information on how to enter, go to our website worldvision.ie

ENRICHING YOUR MARRIAGE:  A Marriage Enrichment Weekend is for married couples of all ages.   The next Weekend takes place at The International Hotel Cork on April 3-5 (Fri 7.30 pm to Sun 4 pm). For info. and to book please visit www.marriageencounter.ie or Phone: 087/216 2436.

SUICIDE FIRST-AID A two-day workshop focusing on skills building in the area of suicide first-aid will take place at the Listowel Family Resource Centre on March 11/12 next. The ASSIST programme is designed to provide participants with opportunities to learn what a person at risk may need from others in order to keep safe and get more help. It encourages honest, open and direct talk about suicide as part of preparing people to provide suicide first aid. The programme runs from 9am-5pm daily. To book, log on to https://bookwhen.com/suicideprevention-trainingkerry

KERRY COLLEGE—LISTOWEL CAMPUS:  Further Education Open Day Wednesday, March 4 from1-7pm. Information available on all full-time courses for employment, College progression and Apprenticeships from staff and current students for courses in 2020. Demonstrations and tours throughout the day. See our Facebook page for more information and be in for chance to win a tablet.

PIONEER NATIONAL BALL: Saturday, April 4 in Menlo Park Hotel, Galway, for tickets & info, call Frances 086 3121695 or Sean 086 8648895.

WOOD TURNERS: The secretary of the Kerry Chapter of the Irish Woodturner Guild is Bob Cosgrave and he has issued an invitation to local woodturners to come to their monthly meeting in Tralee on the second Tuesday of each month between 7-10pm.  Contact Bob Cosgrave 087 2833507 for further information.

GATE CLOSED:  The church gates will be locked each evening at 8pm for the winter months

WEST LIMERICK SINGING CLUB: The club meet on the first Friday of each month in Philip Enrights ‘The Ramble Inn’, Church Street from 9pm.

YOGA CLASS:  Wednesday from 7 – 8.30pm Abbeyfeale Rugby Club.  Ring Mike on 087 2732591.

FREE HSE-RUN EVENING COURSE FOR PEOPLE WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES in Killarney starting on March 11 and every Wednesday evening thereafter for 4 weeks from 5.30-8pm. Ph: 064-6670763 or 087 1234035

CLOUNMACON CENTRE DANCING every Thursday night with Josephine O Connor, at 8.15pm. Everybody welcome.

ARDFERT RETREAT CENTRE:  The work of Byron Katie: Clodagh O’Mara, Friday, March 6-8 Contact 0863741017.  The Art of Allowing: Fr. Louis Hughes OP, Saturday, March 7 from 10am-2pm. Phone:  7134276. A Creative Writing Weekend Retreat: Madge O’Callaghan, Residential  weekend of writing using the AWA method.  Friday,  March 20 -22. Contact 0863218848.

TRADITIONAL MUSIC CLASSES ATHEA:  Tutor Michael Broderick, Top of the Town Friday nights; Beginners 7.15 – 7.45pm, Advanced 7.45 – 8.15pm.

HARNETT MAGAZINE:  Some Harnett Reunion magazines are still available at Ann Lyons Shop and from James Harnett.

WEST LIMERICK TOASTMASTERS:  Develop your speaking skills and your self confidence at West Limerick Toastmasters.  First and third Wednesday of the month September – June in the Desmond Complex from 8 – 10pm.  New members welcome.  Contact Charles 087 7972855.

ABBEYFEALE BOOK CLUB:  St. Ita’s Hall, the second Wednesday of each month September – June from 7.30 -9pm.   All welcome.  Refreshments served.

THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY is looking for volunteers to drive patients to and from their chemotherapy treatments in all public hospitals nationwide. Volunteers will need their own car but all expenses are paid. If you have 2 free days a month (Monday – Friday) and an active email address we would love to hear from you. Please call Laura on 01 2310 594, email [email protected] or go to www.cancer.ie for more information.

HELPLINE FOR MEN SUFFERING DOMESTIC ABUSE:  A new helpline has been set up and will operate 36 hours a week on 1800816588.

GROW COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH MOVEMENT IN IRELAND.   Meet on Wednesday’s at 8pm in the Seanchaí Centre, Listowel. This programme is open to all and is free of charge. No introductions needed. Just come along. For more information, contact Jerry, 086 0271990.

MASS TIMES IN THE PASTORAL AREA UNIT:  Abbeyfeale – Saturday 6.30pm   and    Sunday   9.15am & 12noon.    Athea -   Saturday 7.30pm and Sunday 10.30am. Mountcollins   – Saturday 7.30pm  Templeglantine – Saturday 6pm and Sunday 10.00 am.  Tournafulla    -   Sunday 11am

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH:  Fr Tony Mullins PP 087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674. Fr Denis Mullane 087/2621911. Fr Shoji Vargihese      089/4431922 Parish Church 068/51915. Parish Office; Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. (068) 31133    Email: [email protected]   Limerick Social Services:  061-314111.    AA    061/311222 Al-Anon 086/8143425. Parent Support worker 068/31019.  Accord NCW 069/61000.   Samaritans Freephone 116123 or text 087/2609090 or email [email protected] Aware (Depression & Anxiety) 1980 303 302 National Suicide Helpline (Pieta House) 1800 247 247 Irish Advocacy Network (Peer advocacy in mental health) 01 872 8684 Pieta House (Suicide & self-harm) 01 623 5606 IACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy) 01 230 3536 Shine: (Supporting people effected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 A  l-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560 .  Counselling Appointment    061/314213.  Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm. Daily Mass 10am Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday except in the event of a funeral when Mass will be at 11am.   Saturday Morning Mass at 11am.  Mass Intentions:  Friday 10am Purgatorial   Stations of the Cross at 9.40am.         Saturday 6.30pm  Peg McCarthy Caherlane.  Lisa Doran Luton.  Willie Pa O’Connor Collins Park, Month’s Mind.

Vera Broderick New Street.  Sunday 9.15am  Patrick, Nora and Betty Collins, Meenkilly.  12 noon Peg Cunningham nee Riordan Ballybehy and Galway.  Johnny and Eily Lane New Street.  Nicky Bowden Months Mind.

Perpetual Help Novena on Friday’s @ 10am.St Anthony’s Novena each Monday evening @ 7pm Mass.  Trocaire boxes are available at the doors of the church.   Monthly meeting of Young Priests Society Wednesday, March 4 at 7pm.

PASSION PLAY PILGRIMAGE 2020: Oberammergau, Germany, Monday, May 25-27 for the world famous Passion Play which only takes place every 10 years. Return flights Dublin/Munich/Dublin with coach transfer Kerry/Dublin return. Cost is €905.00 Bed & Breakfast & 1 Evening Meal. Insurance €15 extra per person under 80 years. Accommodation on a share basis.   Limited places available. Further details and booking form from Janice O’Sullivan 064 7758219 or email [email protected]. Operated in conjunction with Marian Pilgrimages 01-878 8159 Licensed as a Tour Operator by the Commission for Aviation Regulation in compliance with UK & European regulations (TO142)

RAMBLING HOUSES:   Monagae 2^nd. Monday of the month.   Knockalougha, Duagh on the third Tuesday of every month.

PROLOGUE: Always laugh when you can. It is cheap medicine.”
Lord Byron.

DEATH:  Sincere sympathy is offered to the family of the late Peg O’Grady, Caherconnell, on her recent death.  May she rest in peace.

SERMON FROM PP AFTER CHILD MURDER:   It isn’t too often that you see an entire congregation straighten themselves, sit up straight and listen attentively to the weekly sermon but that’s what happened here in Abbeyfeale last Sunday when our PP Fr. Tony Mullins spoke about young lives being destroyed by drugs, violence and barbarism at a level never before seen.  He said that the “ scourge of a drugs culture is prevalent in every community including this parish and all the small communities around us and it can engulf any young We can say NO to drugs as a community by using every opportunity to educate our young people to the dangers involved.  We need to teach them to say No, we need to support them to find the courage to resist the temptation, the recent tragedy this week is an opportunity to open up a discussion at home about the drug culture here in this parish.  It is good to talk – have that discussion with all your children or grandchildren.

1.     Support the Gardai in their work of prevention here – do not turn a blind eye.

2.     Offer support to young people who unfortunately have been drawn into the drug culture.  Be vigilant and have courage to intervene if necessary.

SAN RITA WELLNESS:  Friday mornings in St. Ita’s Hall from 10-11am.  Contact 087 6718377.

HAVEN:  If you have a problem with alcohol or drugs you are welcome to join a confidential group called Haven who meet on Thursday nights from 7 – 8.30pm in the parish office.  For further information contact 087 7662865/087 4270374.

BOTTLE TOPS:  The adult education centre in Mountmahon are collecting bottle tops for an art project and would appreciate if you would drop yours into either the centre or into St. Ita’s Hall over the next few weeks.

SIVE AT THE GLÓRACH:  The stage is set this weekend for one of the finest plays ever written by John B Keane.  The Abha Bhán Drama Group from Loughill/Ballyhahill won the best play at the West Limerick Drama Festival last Spring with their production of Sive, and they will be bringing it to the Glórach Theatre for two nights on Friday, January 24 and Saturday 25. Keane’s debut caused a major stir in its time and while the social landscape has changed, many of the central themes remain as relevant as ever.  Above all else, there is a wonderful lyrical quality to the writing, and while John B Keane wrote many plays following Sive, few matched the beautiful language of his debut.  Not to be missed, curtains up at 8 pm and tickets can be booked at 0871383940. Admission charge is €10.

LOVE KNOTS AT FR. CASEY’S:  The latest offering from the Abbeyfeale Drama Group is a comedy by Jimmy Keary.  It will be staged on Tuesday, February 4, Thursday 6, Saturday 8, Sunday 9, Tuesday 11, Thursday 13, Saturday 15 and Sunday February 16 at Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse.  Doors open 7.15pm, Show 8pm sharp.   The Athea Drama Group have also chosen a play on the Luv theme which  is also by Jimmy Keary.  They will be going on stage with ‘Looking for Love’ on February 6,8,9,13, 15,16 in the Community Centre, Athea.

AUTISM FRIENDLY:  West Limerick Resources SICAP programme in association with SuperValu and Abbeyfeale Community Council is looking to explore the option of Abbeyfeale becoming an Autism Friendly Town and Community. To understand and hear about what is involved in this, we are having a public meeting on Wednesday, February 5 in St Ita’s Daycare Centre @ 7:30pm. A member of ‘AsIAm, Ireland’s national Autism charity and advocacy organisation will be in attendance on the night. If you would like to attend, then please contact Dearbhla @ West Limerick Resources on 087 6750869 or email [email protected] to register your interest and book a seat.

ABBEYFEALE HARRIERS:  The annual hunting festival takes place from Sunday, February 9 to Friday,  February 14.  Further information from Paddy O’Grady 087 6258933.

NIGHT AT THE OSKARS: The films have been chosen – Fr. Ted, Forrest Gump, The Golden Girls, Sister Act, The Quiet Man, Misery and The Calendar Girls.  The awards ceremony will take place in the Devon Inn on Friday, March 20 with tickets going on sale shortly.    Rehearsals have commenced and will run for the next three Tuesdays with all actors and actresses being contacted by the producer of their film with the time to be the Day Centre.    Fundraising events are being organised daily and the following is by no means a comprehensive list of all those that are planned for January. Sunday, January 26 Pia has a Flower Arranging Demonstration organised for Tea and Tales from 4-6pm and there’s a Darts Tournament in Jack O’Rourkes from 5pm.   Then on Friday, January 31 we’ll have a Stepathon from 9am -9pm in Feale Fit, Mountmahon, we will be bag packing in Twohigs Super Valu and Mary McArthur has a Rambling House organised in the Day Care Centre from 8.30pm.  Singers, musicians, storytellers will be welcome. Mary will also be selling lines for €2 and raffling a load of blocks from Cotters Firewood and a load of turf so if you’re feeling the chill in the air this is a chance to banish the winter blues by winning the makings of many fires.    Saturday, February 1 Table Quiz in Jack O’Rourkes at 9pm organised by the Forrest Gump Team.

RAMBLING HOUSE IN AID OF THE OSKARS:  Each actor in the OsKaRs for St. Ita’s Sheltered Housing has been asked to fundraise and as part of her fundraising Mary McArthur has organised a Rambling House for Friday, January 31 at the Day Care Centre.  Singers, musicians, storytellers will be most welcome.

THE GOVERNMENT INSPECTOR:  Granagh Players present a Comedy –  ’ The Government Inspector ‘in Granagh Community Centre. V35C584 on Friday, January 24, Saturday 25, Sunday 26.  Friday, January 31 and the first weekend in February.   8pm.  Tickets on the Door.   Adults E10.   Students E5.

MICHEAL ENGLISH COMES TO DUAGH: Be sure and mark March 27 in your diary and book your tickets asap.

NEW COURSES STARTING IN JANUARY 2020 IN THE OLD TECH: Creative writing (Different forms of Creative Writing styles such as short stories, poetry, drama, short sketches and plays);Growing your own Vegetables class – Learn when and how to grow your own produce in our Poly Tunnel ; Cookery class – Learn various dinners and cakes in our demonstration cookery class. If you wish to register for any of the above free classes, please call Mary in the office: 06831198 or register online: www.learningandskills.ie.

BRANDING & MARKETING FOR SMALL BUSINESS: This free one-day course will provide an introduction to market research, branding, public relations and digital marketing. Delivered by Terry Harmer of NLC Training and supported by Limerick Local Enterprise Office it is open to all new and existing businesses operating in the Limerick area.  Venue: Longcourt House Hotel, Newcastle West.  Date and Times: Monday, February 17, 10am-4pm.  Light lunch provided.  Pre-booking is essential.  Register on-line at https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/branding-and-marketing-for-small-businesses-tickets-89061014893 or email [email protected].  For further information contact Suzanne, at West Limerick Resources, on 069 79114.

APPLICATIONS CONTINUE TO BE SOUGHT UNDER LEADER:  The current Rural Development (LEADER) Programme 2014-2020 will close at the end of the year.  Applications will continue to be accepted throughout the year from eligible community projects and local businesses SUBJECT TO FUNDING AVAILABILITY.  While a large proportion of the programme budget is now fully committed, limited funding remains available under a number of sub-themes including:  Rural Tourism, Enterprise Development, Rural Youth, Biodiversity, Water and Renewable Energy.  To enquire if your project idea would be eligible please email [email protected] or contact West Limerick Resources LEADER team immediately on 069 62222.

SONG CONTEST AT THE PLOUGHMAN:  Steve Smith will be in Misery which is one of the films in Abbeyfeale’s Night at the OsKaRs and as part of his fundraising efforts for St. Ita’s Day Care his family are organising a Song Contest.  Singers, who will be sponsored, will be asked to compete on the night of Friday, February 28 at the Ploughman in the Square.  So, if you are addicted to the Eurovision and often thought you’d be better yourself now’s your chance!  Further information and for your chance at fame contact 087 9247533.

ROAD WORKS:  Road works on the Kilmorna Road.  A full road closure will be in place from Monday  20 – Friday 24 from 8am to 6pm on each day.  Info Padraig 086/6072159.

WOOD TURNERS: The secretary of the Kerry Chapter of the Irish Woodturner Guild is Bob Cosgrave and he has issued an invitation to local woodturners to come to their monthly meeting in Tralee on the second Tuesday of each month between 7-10pm.  Contact Bob Cosgrave 087 2833507 for further information.

GATE CLOSED:  The church gates will be locked each evening at 8pm for the winter months

COMMUNITY SUBSTANCE MISUSE TEAM:  A free and confidential service for under 18’s and their families impacted by substance misuse is provided on the first Wednesday of the month in St. Ita’s Hall from 2.30pm – 5pm.  Contact Kristeen Laing 086 4141854.

WEST LIMERICK SINGING CLUB: The club meet on the first Friday of each month in Philip Enrights, The Ramble Inn, Church Street from 9pm.

YOGA CLASS:  Wednesday from 7 – 8.30pm Abbeyfeale Rugby Club.  Ring Mike on 087 2732591.

TRADITIONAL MUSIC CLASSES ATHEA:  Tutor Michael Broderick, Top of the Town Friday nights; Beginners 7.15 – 7.45pm, Advanced 7.45 – 8.15pm.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY ALERT: I got a call this week on the land line to say that two transactions were made on our credit it card at 6am and was it me.  Knowing that I was turning over for my second sleep at 6am and that it definitely was not me, I told a bare faced lie and said it was and that I was after buying stuff on line and thanks for their concern and hung up before he got asking me for my pin number in order to ‘cancel’ the transaction.  We are getting daily warnings of scams – there is a cohort of people out there who will never do a day’s work in their life time and who spend their every waking hour trying to come up with ideas for how to relieve the rest of us of our hard earned cash.  So, don’t answer the phone unless you recognise the number, if they want you let them leave you a message and then you can return the call.  Never, ever give banking details to anyone, on the phone or by email or text.  When you go out wear a high viz jacket no matter what hour, make yourself visible to motorists.  If you are driving put on your lights and especially if it is raining.  Lock your car when parking it up, leave nothing of value visible, if driving alone lock the doors. Get a house alarm, buy a timer for lights so that the house looks occupied when you are out.  These are all sensible things to do and will help to deter the criminal.  Ring Abbeyfeale Gardai on 068 30010 ( Three hundred ten) if you have concerns over callers , if the phone is unattended the call will be answered in NCW and the local squad car will be notified.  When you reach the age of 65 and live alone or with a person/s aged over 65 you are entitled to receive a monitored alarm system. But if you have younger people living in the house who are out for long periods of the day then,  because you are spending hours alone you are also entitled to the system provided that you are over 65.  The free equipment is provided by Pobal following an application from Abbeyfeale Community Alert, there will be a monitoring fee to be paid from the second year of installation to the installing company of €72.  Please note that this fee has increased by €6 and is payable in a lump sum each year after year one.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month payable from day one.  Then, in year two you will also receive a bill for the monitoring fee so in year one the bill will be €90 and in year two and every other year after it will €162 approx.  Committee members are Sean Broderick, Michael O’Kelly N.T., Seamus Stack, Mossie Gleeson, Kathleen Collins, Mary McArthur, Buddy and Brenda Barry, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Mary Jo O’Connell, James Joy, Denis Collins, Marian Harnett.

MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGE:  Ex Cork June 30-July 7.  Half Board €725.  Contact 086 2959380 asap as just a few places remaining.

HARNETT MAGAZINE:  Some Harnett Reunion magazines are still available at Ann Lyons Shop and from James Harnett, also the final items of Harnett merchandise are available at Heavenly Gifts.

ABBEYFEALE PARENT & TODDLER GROUP: 11am – 12.30pm every Tuesday and Thursday, St Ita’s Hall. New people always welcome. Suitable for parents/care givers and children aged birth to 4 years including children attending pre-school. This group is an opportunity to meet other parents and play time with your baby/toddler. This is a free service and priority is given to those in receipt of social welfare payment or living in social housing. Contact Mary on 087 9382883.

WEST LIMERICK TOASTMASTERS:  Develop your speaking skills and your self confidence at West Limerick Toastmasters.  First and third Wednesday of the month September – June in the Desmond Complex from 8 – 10pm.  New members welcome.  Contact Charles 087 7972855.

ST. ITA’S READING GROUP:  Wednesday in the Adoration Chapel at 10.30pm.  New members welcome.

ABBEYFEALE BOOK CLUB:  St. Ita’s Hall, the second Wednesday of each month September – June from 7.30 -9pm.   All welcome.  Refreshments served.

THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY is looking for volunteers to drive patients to and from their chemotherapy treatments in all public hospitals nationwide. Volunteers will need their own car but all expenses are paid. If you have 2 free days a month (Monday – Friday) and an active email address we would love to hear from you. Please call Laura on 01 2310 594, email [email protected] or go to www.cancer.ie for more information.

HELPLINE FOR MEN SUFFERING DOMESTIC ABUSE:  A new helpline has been set up and will operate 36 hours a week on 1800816588.

GROW COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH MOVEMENT IN IRELAND.   Meet on Wednesday’s at 8pm in the Seanchaí Centre, Listowel. This programme is open to all and is free of charge. No introductions needed. Just come along. For more information, contact Jerry, 086 0271990.

MASS TIMES IN THE PASTORAL AREA UNIT:  Abbeyfeale – Saturday 6.30pm   and    Sunday   9.15am & 12noon.    Athea -   Saturday 7.30pm and Sunday 10.30am. Mountcollins   – Sunday 11am.  Templeglantine – Saturday 6pm and Sunday 10.00 am.  Tournafulla    -   Saturday 7.30pm.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH:  Fr Tony Mullins PP 087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674. Fr Denis Mullane 087/2621911. Fr Shoji Vargihese      089/4431922 Parish Church 068/51915. Parish Office; Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. (068) 31133    Email: [email protected]   Limerick Social Services:  061-314111.    AA    061/311222 Al-Anon 086/8143425. Parent Support worker 068/31019.  Accord NCW 069/61000.   Samaritans Freephone 116123 or text 087/2609090 or email [email protected] Aware (Depression & Anxiety) 1980 303 302 National Suicide Helpline (Pieta House) 1800 247 247 Irish Advocacy Network (Peer advocacy in mental health) 01 872 8684 Pieta House (Suicide & self-harm) 01 623 5606 IACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy) 01 230 3536 Shine: (Supporting people effected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 A  l-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560 .  Counselling Appointment    061/314213.  Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm. Daily Mass 10am Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday except in the event of a funeral when Mass will be at 11am.   Saturday Morning Mass at 11am.  Mass Intentions:  Wednesday 10am  Mamie Harnett, Knockbrack.  Freda, Mary, Joe and Margaret Fitzsimons.  Saturday 6.30pm  Lily O’Keeffe, St. Ita’s Road.  Betty McCarthy, Knockbrack.  Sunday 9.15am  Denis McEnery.  John Moore, Shanbally.  12 noon  Patrick and Hannah Broderick, Dromtrasna Collins.  Mike Barry Month’s Mind.  Noreen O’Rourke, Months Mind.  Mike O’Connor, Dromtrasna.

PASSION PLAY PILGRIMAGE 2020: Oberammergau, Germany, Monday, May 25-27 for the world famous Passion Play which only takes place every 10 years. Return flights Dublin/Munich/Dublin with coach transfer Kerry/Dublin return. Cost is €905.00 Bed & Breakfast & 1 Evening Meal. Insurance €15 extra per person under 80 years. Accommodation on a share basis. Limited places available. Further details and booking form from Janice O’Sullivan 064 7758219 or email [email protected]. Operated in conjunction with Marian Pilgrimages 01-878 8159 Licensed as a Tour Operator by the Commission for Aviation Regulation in compliance with UK & European regulations (TO142)

CATHOLIC EDUCATION COURSE FOR TEACHERS: Will take place in Tralee Education Centre on Wednesday, February 5 from 5-7pm. This free course will focus on the key messages to teach children about the Catholic faith. For info and booking, see www.edcentretralee.ie.

RETROUVAILLE:  A Lifeline for Married Couples.  Do you want to improve the communication with your spouse? Do you feel lost, alone or bored in your marriage? Are you hurt, frustrated or angry with your spouse? Does talking about it only make it worse? The Retrouvaille programme can help marriages at all stages. Next programme starts February 7-9. For information contact Tony & Anne (01) 495 3536, Mike & Anne (01) 450 0922, text or call 086 413 5440, or email [email protected] visit www.retrouvaille.ie

KERRY’S CLUBS FAIR: Killarney Lions Club in association with Killarney Credit Union, are giving adults in Kerry an easy way to find out about club/activities that they can be part of, free of charge. This event takes place at Killarney Racecourse between  on Sunday January 26 from 2 – 5pm.  It  will showcase 50 clubs and societies that you may like to participate with or volunteer with. Take the first step to new beginnings.

RAMBLING HOUSES:   Monagae 2^nd. Monday of the month.   Knockalougha, Duagh on the third Tuesday of every month.

DEATH:  Sincere sympathy to the families of the late Mike Barry, Cahir and Breda Gleeson, Mountmahon whose deaths occurred over the Christmas season.  We also offer our sympathy to the daughter and extended relations of the late Noreen O’Rourke, Clash.  May their souls rest in peace.

ST. ITA’S WRENBOYS:  The Wrenboys were out over Christmas collecting for Fr. Tim Galvin and Fr. John Moloney.  They want to say a special thanks to Mollie Walsh, daughter of Shay and Mary who was their youngest member and who played the accordion.

SAFE JOURNEY:  We wish Fr. Shoji a safe journey and a great visit with his family in India this January.  He’ll be sorely missed here in Abbeyfeale.

ABBEYFEALE FARMERS’ MARKET SPONSORS ONE OF THE OSKAR FILMS:  Each of the seven films being made to help St. Ita’s Sheltered Housing raise funds will be sponsored to the tune of €1,000 and in order to get the ball rolling  the stall holders at the Farmers’ Market raffled a Christmas Hamper to cover the cost of a  sponsorship.  The draw was held in JD Harnett’s  Cryle View Bar on Sunday, December 22 and the hamper was won by Mairead Tierney, Athea.   Many thanks to everyone who purchased lines.

ABBEYFEALE FARMER’S MARKET: Greetings from Abbeyfeale Farmers’ Market which was set up in April 2003 and which over the years has moved from the Community Centre, New St to St. Ita’s Hall to the small Square and from Friday to Saturday and back again to Friday.  We’re gone from 15 stalls on day one to 3 at present but we’re still hanging in there!  Every Friday morning I get up at 5.30am and bake brown bread full of goodness – wheat and white flour, oat bran and pinhead oatmeal mixed with buttermilk, a pinch of salt, some bread soda and a spoonful of sugar and baked in a hot oven until you tap it on the bottom and hear a hollow sound indicating that it is baked through.  I also make ginger bread loaded with spices and beaten with a wooden spoon until the melted butter and treacle and eggs coat the Odlums white flour into a chocolate coloured mass.  Then around 8am I start making scones – fruit, cheese and chive, plain and brown so that when I arrive at the market the steam is still rising and they are ready to be eaten with butter and some homemade blackcurrant or raspberry jam which is made from fruit picked on balmy summer evenings and frozen a couple of hours later.  Fruit that by the way that has never been sprayed or fertilized with chemicals and is grown with the aid of homemade compost.  We may be small but every year stall holder Helga Henn donates vegetables from her organic farm on the top of Dromtrasna, Seamus Quinlan – the beekeeper from Kilmanahan whose local honey is sold by Helga donates  honey from his 15 hives, Bridie Scully Collins and Bridie O’ Shea donate strawberry plants as well as shrubs and house plants, Mairead Daly brings hand picked apples from her trees and Kate Murphy and her John Paul 2 Award students harvest vegetables, make scones and buns and along with Maria Quinn, Trish Roche, Ann O’Meara and Mary and Kate McGill put together a couple of tables laden with freshly picked vegetables, plants, shrubs, scones, cakes, jams, honey and sell them after Sunday Mass twice or three times a year.  All the money raised goes to Fr. Tim Galvin’s Mission in South Sudan and since Fr. Shoji has moved here to assist Fr. Tony in the parish a donation is also made to run an orphanage in the diocese that he has been seconded from.  Abbeyfeale Farmers’ Market may be small but we are making a difference to the lives of people in far flung places and this Christmas Season we have donated a huge hamper to St. Ita’s Sheltered Housing for its Night at the OsKars fundraiser, the money raised will help the elderly in our local community.  Hopefully we will be able to continue to meet in the small Square every Friday morning from 9-1pm from mid-January to Christmas every year, we would be delighted to welcome new stall holders to the market.

MICHEAL ENGLISH COMES TO DUAGH:  Every one of the 800 plus people who attended the concert in the church last week will tell you how wonderful it was so if you missed out be sure and mark March 27, 2020 in your diary.

WOOD TURNERS: The secretary of the Kerry Chapter of the Irish Woodturner Guild is Bob Cosgrave and  he has issued an invitation to local woodturners to come to their monthly meeting in Tralee on the second Tuesday of each month between 7-10pm.  Contact Bob Cosgrave 087 2833507 for further information.

GATE CLOSED:  The church gates will be locked each evening at 8pm for the winter months

AFTERNOON TEA DANCING:  Fr. Casey’s, Sunday, January 12 from 3-6pm in aid of Fr. Martin Mc Cormack’s African Project.  Music by Donie Walsh and Anthony.  Admission €5.  Raffle on the day.

COMMUNITY SUBSTANCE MISUSE TEAM:  A free and confidential service for under 18’s and their families impacted by substance misuse is provided on the first Wednesday of the month in St. Ita’s Hall from 2.30pm – 5pm.  Contact Kristeen Laing 086 4141854.

KERRY LONDON ASSOCIATION AGM:   January 15, Sala Room, Crown Hotel, Cricklewood at 7pm.

NEW COURSES STARTING IN JANUARY 2020 IN THE OLD TECH:  The following new classes are starting up in January 2020: Demonstration cookery, Cookery for Special Diets (Gluten free etc), Childcare QQI Level 5 & 6, Healthcare QQI Level 5,  Arts and Crafts, Beginners Horticulture/Vegetable crop production(Gardening-Learn when and how to set seeds, care for plants etc), and Creative writing (Different forms of Creative Writing styles such as short stories, poetry, drama, short sketches and plays)

If you wish to register for any of the above free classes, please call Mary in the office: 06831198 or log onto www.learningandskills.ie.

YOGA CLASS:  Wednesday from 7 – 8.30pm Abbeyfeale Rugby Club.  Ring Mike on 087 2732591.

WEST LIMERICK SINGING CLUB: The club meet on the first Friday of each month in Philip Enrights, The Ramble Inn, Church Street from 9pm.

FIRST FRIDAY REFLECTIONS WITH FR.  SHOJI:  On the First Friday of each month, Fr Shoji will lead an hour of Praise and Worship in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel beginning at 9am.

TRADITIONAL MUSIC CLASSES ATHEA:  Tutor Michael Broderick, Top of the Town Friday nights; Beginners 7.15 – 7.45pm, Advanced 7.45 – 8.15pm.

COMMUNITY ALERT: ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY ALERT: Once you reach the age of 65 and live alone or with a person/s aged over 65 you are entitled to receive a monitored alarm system. But if you have younger people living in the house who are out for long periods of the day then,  because you are spending hours alone you are also entitled to the system provided that you are over 65.  The free equipment is provided by Pobal following an application from Abbeyfeale Community Alert, there will be a monitoring fee to be paid from the second year of installation to the installing company of €72.  Please note that this fee has increased by €6 and is payable in a lump sum each year after year one.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month payable from day one.  Then, in year two you will also receive a bill for the monitoring fee so in year one the bill will be €90 and in year two and every other year after it will €162 approx.  Committee members are Sean Broderick, Michael O’Kelly N.T., Seamus Stack, Mossie Gleeson, Kathleen Collins, Mary McArthur, Buddy and Brenda Barry, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Mary Jo O’Connell, James Joy, Denis Collins, Marian Harnett.

HARNETT MAGAZINE:  Some Harnett Reunion magazines are still available at Ann Lyons Shop and from James Harnett, also the final items of Harnett merchandise are available at Heavenly Gifts.

ABBEYFEALE PARENT & TODDLER GROUP: 11am – 12.30pm every Tuesday and Thursday, St Ita’s Hall. New people always welcome. Suitable for parents/care givers and children aged birth to 4 years including children attending pre-school. This group is an opportunity to meet other parents and play time with your baby/toddler. This is a free service and priority is given to those in receipt of social welfare payment or living in social housing. Contact Mary on 087 9382883.

WEST LIMERICK TOASTMASTERS:  Develop your speaking skills and your self confidence at West Limerick Toastmasters.  First and third Wednesday of the month September – June in the Desmond Complex from 8 – 10pm.  New members welcome.  Contact Charles 087 7972855.

SCHOOL OF MUSIC AND DRAMA:  Sephira School of Music and Drama has opened on Main St .  All ages are welcome.  Contact Ruth Joyce on 085 2052384 /[email protected] or look them up on Facebook.

ABBEYFEALE BOOK CLUB:  St. Ita’s Hall, the second Wednesday of each month September – June from 7.30 -9pm.   All welcome.  Refreshments served.

THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY is looking for volunteers to drive patients to and from their chemotherapy treatments in all public hospitals nationwide. Volunteers will need their own car but all expenses are paid. If you have 2 free days a month (Monday – Friday) and an active email address we would love to hear from you. Please call Laura on 01 2310 594, email [email protected] or go to www.cancer.ie for more information.

HELPLINE FOR MEN SUFFERING DOMESTIC ABUSE:  A new helpline has been set up and will operate 36 hours a week on 1800816588.

GROW COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH MOVEMENT IN IRELAND.   Meet on Wednesday’s at 8pm in the Seanchaí Centre, Listowel. This programme is open to all and is free of charge. No introductions needed. Just come along. For more information, contact Jerry, 086 0271990.

MASS TIMES IN THE PASTORAL AREA UNIT:  Abbeyfeale – Saturday 6.30pm   and    Sunday   9.15am & 12noon.    Athea -   Saturday 7.30pm and Sunday 10.30am. Mountcollins   – Sunday 11am.  Templeglantine – Saturday 6pm and Sunday 10.00 am.  Tournafulla    -   Saturday 7.30pm.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH:  Fr Tony Mullins PP 087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674. Fr Denis Mullane 087/2621911. Fr Shoji Vargihese      089/4431922 Parish Church 068/51915. Parish Office; Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. (068) 31133    Email: [email protected]   Limerick Social Services:  061-314111.    AA    061/311222 Al-Anon 086/8143425. Parent Support worker 068/31019.  Accord NCW 069/61000.   Samaritans Freephone 116123 or text 087/2609090 or email [email protected] Aware (Depression & Anxiety) 1980 303 302 National Suicide Helpline (Pieta House) 1800 247 247 Irish Advocacy Network (Peer advocacy in mental health) 01 872 8684 Pieta House (Suicide & self-harm) 01 623 5606 IACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy) 01 230 3536 Shine: (Supporting people effected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 A  l-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560 .  Counselling Appointment    061/314213.  Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm. Daily Mass 10am Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday except in the event of a funeral when Mass will be at 11am.   Saturday Morning Mass at 11am.  Wednesday 11am New Year Day World Day of Prayer for Peace.  Saturday 6.30pm Michael Collins, Upper Purt Month Mind.   John Collins, Ballaugh and deceased family members.   Jimmy Daly, Dromtrasna Collins.  Jimmy Quirke, Kilconlea Upper. Thomas Enright ,Rathoran 3rd Anniversary. Sunday 12noon Jim Joy Ballaugh & Peg Joy Convent Road.   Sheila & Billy O’Connor, Mountmahon & and Anthony O’Connor .  Little Christmas  Day, Monday, January 6 -  Masses at 10am & 7pm.

Adoration  will resume on Tuesday, January 7.

RAMBLING HOUSES:   Monagae 2^nd. Monday of the month.   Knockalougha, Duagh on the third Tuesday of every month.

PROLOGUE:  “Laughter heals all wounds, and that’s one thing that everybody shares. No matter what you’re going through, it makes you forget about your problems. I think the world should keep laughing.”

– Kevin Hart

COMMUNITY SUBSTANCE MISUSE TEAM:  A free and confidential service for under 18’s and their families impacted by substance misuse is provided on the first Wednesday of the month in St. Ita’s Hall from 2.30pm – 5pm.  Contact Kristeen Laing 086 4141854.

FEALE CRAFTERS:  Annual Christmas Craft Fair in St. Ita’s Hall on Friday, November 29 from 11 – 3.30pm.

GATE CLOSED:  The church gates will be locked each evening at 8pm for the winter months.

YOGA CLASS:  Wednesday from 7 – 8.30pm Abbeyfeale Rugby Club.  Ring Mike on 087 2732591.

NOONAN’S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS:  Official switch on will take place on Saturday, November 30 at 4pm.  Tipperary’s All Star Brendan Maher will do the honours – he will also be joined by a host of County Champions .  Santa will be there, so bring your letters and he’ll take them back to the North Pole.

SENIOR PARISH CHOIR CELEBRATE 40 YEARS:  The choir under the direction of Dee Dennison has been there on the good days and the not so good days providing a soundtrack to our celebrations and our grieving.  The sound has aged like good wine and with Riona on the organ and Dee with the baton the choir just keeps getting better and better.   Congratulations to all the members and thank you for enhancing our Masses – we are blessed to have ye.

GLÓRACH NEWS: The supremely talented O’Leary sisters, Ruth and Joyce, who go under the name of Sephira, will be bringing their impressive live show to the Glórach Theatre on Friday, November 29.  Tickets are at present sold out.  Friday, December 5 provides an opportunity to see the Active Retired Ladies new choir and African Drumming Group.   All welcome, there will be light refreshments served.  For any enquiries about these events, please don’t hesitate to call us at 0871383940 or email at [email protected].

TRADITIONAL MUSIC CLASSES ATHEA:  Tutor Michael Broderick, Top of the Town Friday nights; Beginners 7.15 – 7.45pm, Advanced 7.45 – 8.15pm.

ANNUAL VISIT OF SANTA TO ABBEYFEALE: Santa will arrive in the Square on Friday, November 29 around 6pm.   There will be great excitement with the Christmas Lights turned on, sweeties for the children and Mrs. Claus and the elves directing operations.  It is a matter of great regret that, due to unforeseen circumstances, the usual stalls will not be present this year.

COMMUNITY ALERT: In the region of 90 people sat down to a beautiful meal last Sunday at our 4^th annual Christmas Lunch which was catered by Conor McCarthy of the Kitchen Table. Chairman James Stack welcomed our new Super, Aileen Magnier who made herself available to anyone who wished to have a quiet word. We received some pertinent advice on fire safety from Fire Officer Jerry Lyons and  as always Community Garda Roger O’Donoghue was on hand to offer advice and to make sure that elderly members of the community know that he is only a phone call away.  We were also joined by Sgt. Ber Leetch who is the crime prevention officer for Limerick with a presentation on Staying Safe around Christmas.   Tips included:  Plan nights out, leave word where you’re going and what time you’ll be back, park your car in secure well lit areas and always lock it.  Don’t leave Christmas presents in view, drive with the doors locked and do not put your handbag on the seat and always turn on your alarm when leaving home.  The day which was most enjoyable concluded with dancing to Paddy Quilligan and a presentation to our new curate Fr. Shoji .  Tesco Abbeyfeale have given us their blue token collection for eight weeks so please place your tokens in the container as you leave the store. At the recent crime prevention meeting in the Glórach we were asked not to flash oncoming cars if we pass a Garda roadblock because we may be alerting the criminal who is around checking out easy targets and who turns and takes a different road when he get the beck. At least if he comes through the roadblock the Gardai are alerted to his presence in the area.  Once you reach the age of 65 and live alone or with a person/s aged over 65 you are entitled to receive a monitored alarm system. But if you have younger people living in the house who are out for long periods of the day then because you are spending hours alone you are also entitled to the system provided that you are over 65.  The free equipment is provided by Pobal following an application from Abbeyfeale Community Alert, there will be a monitoring fee to be paid from the second year of installation to the installing company of €72.  Please note that this fee has increased by €6 and is payable in a lump sum each year after year one.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month payable from day one.  Then, in year two you will also receive a bill for the monitoring fee so in year one the bill will be €90 and in year two and every other year after it will €162 approx.  Committee members are Sean Broderick, Michael O’Kelly N.T., Seamus Stack, Mossie Gleeson, Kathleen Collins, Mary McArthur, Buddy and Brenda Barry, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Mary Jo O’Connell, James Joy, Denis Collins, Marian Harnett.

BAPTISMAL TEAM MEETING:  Templeglantine Sacristy Tuesday, December 10 at 8pm.

MEMORIAL MASS:  In honour of the deceased members of Kerry Ingredients a Mass will be held in St. Micheal’s Church, Lixnaw on thisWednesday night at 7.30pm.

WEST LIMERICK SINGING CLUB: The club meet on the first Friday of each month in Philip Enrights, The Ramble Inn, Church Street from 9pm.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL:  Annual church gate collection on the weekend of December 7 and 8.

FIRST FRIDAY REFLECTIONS WITH FR.  SHOJI:  On the First Friday of each month, Fr Shoji will lead an hour of Praise and Worship in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel beginning at 9am.

HARNETT MAGAZINE:  Some Harnett Reunion magazines are still available at Ann Lyons Shop and from James Harnett, also the final items of Harnett merchandise are available at Heavenly Gifts.

KNOCK ALL NIGHT VIGIL:  Pro-Life Vigil on Saturday, December 7 Saturday midnight to Sunday morning departing Dero’s Main St at 3pm on December 7.  Contact Deros  064 6631251.

GLÓRACH:  Bingo every Monday night at 8.30pm

KNOCK SHRINE 2019 NIGHT VIGIL; Saturday, December 7.   With Fitzpatrick’s of Listowel. Vigil programme 10pm.  Confessions in the Chapel of Reconciliation, 12am vigil in Basilica, 4am concelebrated mass. Fare €30. Coach will leave Listowel @ 4.30pm. Phone (068) 21707 or (087) 3966399.

FR. CASEY’S CARD GAME:  Cards have resumed on Friday nights in GAA Clubhouse @ 9pm.  Friday, November 22:  Winner 14 games each were :Joan Murphy, Jerry O’Connor, Bill Blair.  Runner up after play-off were; Frank Curtin, Curly Harnett, Toddy O’Connor. Table prize winners were; Nora Lyons, John Lyons, Dan Brosnan.  Door prize winner was; Seamus Lane. Raffle prize winners were;  Jamsie McEnery, Gobnaith Scannell, Trish Murphy, JD Foley, Joan Patman, Tom Murphy, Maura Scannell, Mickie O’Connor, Jerry O’Connor, Sean O’Connor.   Cards have also resumed on Tuesday nights in Meenkilly N.S. at 9pm.

ABBEYFEALE PARENT & TODDLER GROUP: 11am – 12.30pm every Tuesday and Thursday, St Ita’s Hall. New people always welcome. Suitable for parents/care givers and children aged birth to 4 years including children attending pre-school. This group is an opportunity to meet other parents and play time with your baby/toddler. This is a free service and priority is given to those in receipt of social welfare payment or living in social housing. Contact Mary on 087 9382883.

WEST LIMERICK TOASTMASTERS:  Develop your speaking skills and your self confidence at West Limerick Toastmasters.  First and third Wednesday of the month September – June in the Desmond Complex from 8 – 10pm.  New members welcome.  Contact Charles 087 7972855.

SCHOOL OF MUSIC AND DRAMA:  Sephira School of Music and Drama has opened on Main St .  All ages are welcome.  Contact Ruth Joyce on 085 2052384 /[email protected] or look them up on Facebook.

ABBEYFEALE BOOK CLUB:  St. Ita’s Hall, the second Wednesday of each month September – June from 7.30 -9pm.   All welcome.  Refreshments served.

THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY is looking for volunteers to drive patients to and from their chemotherapy treatments in all public hospitals nationwide. Volunteers will need their own car but all expenses are paid. If you have 2 free days a month (Monday – Friday) and an active email address we would love to hear from you. Please call Laura on 01 2310 594, email [email protected] or go to www.cancer.ie for more information.

HELPLINE FOR MEN SUFFERING DOMESTIC ABUSE:  A new helpline has been set up and will operate 36 hours a week on 1800816588.

GROW COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH MOVEMENT IN IRELAND.   Meet on Wednesday’s at 8pm in the Seanchaí Centre, Listowel. This programme is open to all and is free of charge. No introductions needed. Just come along. For more information, contact Jerry, 086 0271990.

MASS TIMES IN THE PASTORAL AREA UNIT:  Abbeyfeale – Saturday 6.30pm   and    Sunday   9.15am & 12noon.    Athea -   Saturday 7.30pm and Sunday 10.30am. Mountcollins   – Sunday 11am.  Templeglantine – Saturday 6pm and Sunday 10.00 am.  Tournafulla    -   Saturday 7.30pm.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH:  Fr Tony Mullins PP 087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674. Fr Denis Mullane 087/2621911. Fr Shoji Vargihese      089/4431922 Parish Church 068/51915. Parish Office; Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. (068) 31133    Email: [email protected]   Limerick Social Services:  061-314111.    AA    061/311222 Al-Anon 086/8143425. Parent Support worker 068/31019.  Accord NCW 069/61000.   Samaritans Freephone 116123 or text 087/2609090 or email [email protected] Aware (Depression & Anxiety) 1980 303 302 National Suicide Helpline (Pieta House) 1800 247 247 Irish Advocacy Network (Peer advocacy in mental health) 01 872 8684 Pieta House (Suicide & self-harm) 01 623 5606 IACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy) 01 230 3536 Shine: (Supporting people effected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 A  l-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560 .  Counselling Appointment    061/314213.  Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm. Daily Mass 10am Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday except in the event of a funeral when Mass will be at 11am.   Saturday Masses 11am and 6.30pm.  Sunday 9.15am and 12 noon..  Mass Intentions: Thursday 10am  Dan Cronin and deceased family members Kilmanihan West.  Friday 10am John and Susan O’ Brien and Patrick Horgan.  Saturday 6.30pm Sonny McCarthy Caherlane.  Jackie and Annie Lyons,  daughter Noreen and deceased members of the Donoghue and Lyons family.  James O’Grady, Meenkilly.  Sunday 12 noon James Lane, Meenkilly 1^st anniversary.  William Flynn  and deceased family members.  Paddy and Lena Flynn, Creggane.

SAFEGUARDING MEETING:  All church volunteers are asked to attend an important meeting in the Glórach Theatre on Wednesday evening at 7.30pm on safeguarding procedures.  Members of the public are also welcome.

NEWS FROM KERRY WRITERS’ WEEK:  Kerry Writers’ Museum, Listowel will host Christmas Craft Fair on Sunday December 1^st from 11 am – 5 pm.  Crafts on sale will include knitwear, pottery, jewellery, wood crafts and seasonal treats.  Admission is free.  Christmas Storytime and Singalong for children aged 4 to 10 years will also take place on Sunday December 1^st from 2 to 4 pm.  Admission is €5 per child and booking is essential to 068 22212 or email [email protected]  Historian Vincent Carmody will give a talk entitled ‘A Photographic Journey of Old Listowel 1870 to 1970’ in Kerry Writers’ Museum on Thursday December 5^th at 8 pm.  The evening will include stories of local characters and places with photos from Vincent’s vast archive.  Tickets are €5 and can be purchased at the door.  Details of all Christmas events at Kerry Writers’ Museum are available on its website www.kerrywritersmueum.com or Facebook page.

RAMBLING HOUSES:   Monagae 2^nd. Monday of the month.   Knockalougha, Duagh on the third Tuesday of every month.