Notices

PROLOGUE:  No one saves us but ourselves. No one can and no one may. We ourselves must walk the path.”
Gautama Buddha.
DEATH:  Sincere sympathy is offered to Patrick Leahy and his children on the death of Rebecca.  May she rest in peace.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH:  Fr Tony Mullins PP  087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674.  Parish Office:  Parish Church 068/51915 Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. (068) 31133    Email: [email protected]   Limerick Social Services:     061-314111    Accord NCW 069/61000 Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Saturday Masses 11am and 6.30pm.  Sunday 9.15am and 12 noon.  Mass Intentions: Wednesday 8pm Young Priests Society.  Saturday 6.30pm    Nonie & Jack Kelly and daughters    Mary B, Teresa and granddaughter Lisa.  Terry Morrissey and his grandparents David & Nora Morrissey.  Sunday 9.15am      Frank Collins, Banard 12noon Hannah Mai Scannell, St Ita’s Terrace.           Margaret Lane, Ballaugh. Prayers to St Anthony on Mondays during the 7pm Mass.  Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Fridays during the 10am Mass.  Counselling takes place every week in West Limerick Tel 061/3147213 for appointment.  A basket for the collection of stamps for Peru is at the back of the altar.  If you know of someone in hospital please notify Fr. Tony.

ABBEYFEALE FIRE BRIGADE:  Recruitment open day next Friday, September 14 from 3 – 8pm. If you think you got what it takes to become a retained member of the fire service why not come along and meet crew members and get some more information on the night.
Closing date for applications is September 27.

MACRA NA FEIRME:  Castleisland Macra will be holding a recruitment night in Mc Carthy’s Bar on Friday, September 28 at 8pm.  All welcome up to the age of 35, do not need to be a farmer.

KNOCK:  Legion of Mary Pilgrimage to Knock Sunday, September 23. Coach leaving the Church Abbeyfeale at 7am sharp. Cost: €20 paid beforehand to ensure a seat. Please contact: Bernard Broderick 068 31565 Sean Broderick 068 31213 Michael Lane 068 32757 087 298084.  David Davy 087 0994272.

WEDNESDAY CLUB COFFEE MORNING:  Friday, September 21 at the Ploughman Bar.

READING GROUP:  St Ita’s Reading Group is starting again after the Summer break on Wednesday September 12 @10.30 in The Adoration Chapel. Do come and take a book for the long Winter evenings.

YOUTH MINISTRY LEADER TRAINING 2018: This year the Limerick Diocesan Youth Ministry Team delivered youth ministry training to 29 people from 13 parishes. This training was one of the key actions arising from the Synod process and the subsequent Pastoral Plan. The feedback from participants and clergy was very positive and we will be running another course beginning in September 2018.  Please get in contact with Aoife at 061-350000 or email [email protected] if you are interested in taking part in this year’s training.

ST. JOSEPH’S YOUNG PRIEST SOCIETY:  St Joseph’s Young priests Society will hold the Limerick Diocesan Meeting in Abbeyfeale on Wednesday, September 12. Mass in the Blessed Sacrament Church @ 8pm. Meeting afterwards in the Day Centre.  All welcome.

TRIP TO THE HOLY LAND:  Christmas Pilgrimage Group to the Holy Land  19-27, 2018 (Last Remaining Places) Taking in Bethlehem, Jerusalem  (Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Last Supper Room and Calvary), Mount Tabor, Cana, Nazareth, Jericho, River Jordan,  Dead Sea and Sea of Galilee. Contact James Treacy 061921470 or 0860572216 payments can be made in instalments before December.

PILGRIMAGE:  Rome/San Giovanni Easter 2019 with Papal Ceremonies in Rome for the Easter Period 7 night’s €995 pps.   Payments can be made in instalments contact James Treacy on 061921470 or 0860572216.

ICA:  Abbeyfeale ICA guild resumed activities on Tuesday night last at the Further Education and Training Centre, Mountmahon from 7.30 – 9.30pm. The guild usually meet first and third Tuesday of the month (except September). Activities include Talks, Demonstrations and Workshops.  New members welcome. Tel. Anne Maria 06831145 for details.

LIMERICK BEEKEEPERS:  Denis Ryan will speak at the meeting on New Varroa Treatments and Winter Preparation in Mungret GAA Hall on Thursday, September 13.

The meeting will start at 8pm sharp.

IRISH RED CROSS:  The West Limerick branch of the Irish Red Cross is recruiting new voluntary members to help with our duties in the West Limerick area.  Driver training will be offered to all new members. Drivers need a full clean licence and have to be over 25.  First aid training will be offered to new members over 18.  There will be an information night in St Ita’s Hall, Abbeyfeale on Wednesday, September 12 from 8-9pm.  Further information Ciara (086) 3106009.

BE PART OF THE SOLUTION TO PLASTIC POLLUTION:  “See, Judge, Act!” An evening providing inspiration, hope and action to protect our Common Home. Screening of the documentary Plastic in Paradise by Derrynane based Vincent Hyland, followed by a Voice Ireland recycling workshop will be held on Wednesday, September 19 @ 8pm in John Paul II Pastoral Centre, Killarney. Free event. Everyone welcome.

BEREAVEMENT INFORMATION:  Milford Care Centre & Anam Cara:  The organisation that supports bereaved parents is holding a Bereavement Information Evening on Thursday, September 20 at 7:00pm in Milford Care Centre, Limerick. This is a free event and open to all bereaved parents. As Milford Care Centre & Anam Cara will need to confirm numbers for teas, coffees, etc., please RSVP to [email protected] before Wednesday,September 19 or call the Information Line on 085 2888 888.

FAITH FORMATION:  Adult Faith Formation classes, offered by the Dominican Sisters in St Saviour’s Dominican Church, Limerick. A comprehensive overview of the Catholic faith will be presented in 10 sessions. Come be a part of this special opportunity to grow in knowledge, faith, and community. The group will meet every Wednesday from 7 -8:30pm from October 3.

PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP:  11am – 12.30pm every Tuesday and Thursday, St Ita’s Hall. New people always welcome. Contact Mary on 087 9382883.

CEILI HOUSE RECORDING:  Ceili House will be recorded in the Community Centre, Ardagh on Sunday, September 16.  Admission €5.

DANCING CLASSES: The Croghan/Greene Academy of Irish Dance with

Instructor Brendan Croghan T.C.R.G. A.D.C.R.G has commenced  classes on Tuesday, September 11 from 2-3pm for (Junior/Senior Infants) and from 3 -4pm (All other age groups) inTeach na Féile Community Centre, New St.  Some of the benefits of Irish dancing include:

Increased physical Skills – Developing body control, muscular strength, endurance and energy levels. Motor Skill Development – Increased agility, balance and co-ordination.

Increased mental skills – Listening, following directions, increasing attention span, memorizing steps.  Weight Management – High burn calorie workout.  Term Fee: 5 weeks €40 (second family member €30).  Contact Brendan on 086-8109819 for further details.

MASS FOR ARDFERT CO-ORDINATORS:  A gathering of parish contact people who organise retreats at Ardfert retreat centre will take place on Wednesday, September 12 from 7.30 – 9.30pm. Mass celebrated by Fr Liam Comer 066/7134276.

FREE WORKSHOPS IN ABBEYFEALE:  West Limerick Resources invites you to attend a free workshop in St. Ita’s Hall, Abbeyfeale.  ‘Invasive Species’ identifying and combating Invasive Species in your local area, on Monday, September 24, at 7.30pm.  To register Elaine [email protected] or 069 66296. All welcome.

ADULT SET DANCING:  for beginners with Timmy Woulfe every Monday at 8pm in the Marian Hall, Moyvane.  Everyone welcome.

CULTURE NIGHT AT THE GLÓRACH:  As part of Culture Night, on Friday, September 21 we will be screening the documentary film, ‘The Limerick Brigadistas- From the Shannon to the Ebro’.  This documentary looks at the role of the six Limerick men who fought for the Republicans against Franco during the Spanish Civil War, and included in their ranks was one Jim Woulfe from Athea who was killed in fighting in 1937.  The screening commences at 8 pm, and the event is free to all.

BINGO AT THE GLÓRACH:  Bingo every Monday night at the Glórach from 8.30pm.

SOCIAL DANCING:  Learn to waltz, jive, slosh etc. with Josephine at The Railway every Tuesday from 8pm.

CHALLENGE:  The 5th Annual event will take place on Saturday, October 20, starting at Dromtrasna National School, Abbeyfeale. All proceeds from this year’s event will go to the ‘Miriam Joy Cancer Treatment Fund.

PARISH OFFICE HOSTS MEETINGS: Narcotics Anonymous meet every Monday night @ 8pm in the parish Office.  Al-anon meet on Tuesday evening @ 8pm. A.A.  Meet every Wednesday afternoon @ 3pm, Friday night @ 8pm and Sunday mornings @ 10am.  These organisations are a great voluntary support to many people and we are happy to host their meetings in our parish office.

KNOCKANURE RAMBLING HOUSE:    Knockalougha, Duagh on the third Tuesday of every month.

MOLADH GO DEO LE DIA:  Much of the past fifty years is captured in a book especially complied to mark the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Church of the Assumption, Abbeyfeale. The book contains many wonderful coloured photographs that show off the splendour of the Church, its stained glass windows and general embellishment.   The title of the publication is Moladh go Deo Le Dia. (Praise be to God forever). Price €10. The book is available in O’Donoghue’s, Marguerite’s, Ann Lyons’ Moss Harnett’s and following Mass.

OFFICE MOVE: Please note that the Abbeyfeale Office of West Limerick Resources has relocated to St Ita’s Hall, Convent Street, Abbeyfeale.  If you have any enquiries, please call to the office and speak to Nora or you can call Mary on 087 9382883.

AUTISM CONFERENCE:  Cork Autism Conference 2018 – Re-Thinking Autism – A Positive and Integrative Approach, Sunday September 30 at Rochestown Park Hotel, Douglas, Cork. Conference provides a unique forum for Parents, Families, Caregivers, Adults with ASD, Employers, Educators, Professionals, Agencies, Advocates and anyone with an interest in autism and Asperger’s syndrome. All are welcome. More info here: www.bookwhen.com/corkautism or call 089 239 8900

HOLY SPIRIT PRAYER MEETING:  Janice and Moss Carraig will lead the Holy Spirit Prayer meeting on the second Sunday of each month in the Desmond Complex.  Further information on 087 6174639.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR BEREAVEMENT: Abbeyfeale Bereavement Support Group Tel. 068/31230 or 068/51984 or 068/31262.

MEDJUGORJE: 7 nights October 10-17. Contact Annemarie Tydings, 0871013804.

ADVICE FROM COMMUNITY ALERT: Abbeyfeale Garda Station 068 30010 (if station unattended the call will automatically be forwarded to NCW station 069 20650.) Contact any member of the committee should you wish to join our Text Alert Scheme.  This was set up to immediately alert the community that an incident has occurred.   The hope is that by raising awareness, people would keep a watchful eye out, contact the Gardai if they see something and thus help to deter criminal activily in our 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 €66.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month.  Please note that this fee is payable in a lump sum each year after year one. Committee members are Sean Broderick, Micheal 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.

LISTOWEL PADRE PIO PRAYER GOURP PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK Sunday, September 16 at 7.30am. Contact Bernadette on 0876019474.

ARDFERT RETREAT CENTRE (0667134276) Fall Adult Religious Education Programme: Fr. Sean Sheehy, Topic: What does God want me to do with my life? This is an 8-session course, Wednesdays – beginning September 19.  Parental Grief Retreat: Caroline Ni Dhuinn, Emmaus Ministry for Grieving Parents USA, Saturday, September 29 from 9 -6.00pm. www.emfgp.org to register or call 7125129.

THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY’S:  National Conference is being held in the Clayton Hotel, Silver Springs, Cork on Saturday, September 22 from 10am –4pm.

PHONE CONNECT SEEKS VOLUNTEERS : The Phone Connect project is a free community based telephone support service offered to older people in the West Limerick Area empowering them to remain independent in their own homes.   The weekly service provides a listening ear to the elderly allowing them to share any worries or concerns and to be informed of any local events or services.  West Limerick Resources is now seeking volunteers to make these phone-calls from a dedicated space where a mobile phone is available. All volunteers will be Garda Vetted and training will also be made available.  If you would be interested in volunteering or require more information, we would be delighted to hear from you so call Damien at West Limerick Resources on 087 9042477 or Stefanie on 087 3663842.

BACK2NEW FURNITURE POP UP SHOP NOW OPEN!  Re-designed and re-imagined furniture available. Now open every Wednesday and Thursday from 9.30am-4.30pm at Market Place (previously Citizens Information), Market Yard, Newcastle West.

RURAL SOCIAL SCHEME RECRUITING POTENTIAL PARTICIPANTS: West Limerick Resources is compiling a list of individuals interested in joining the Rural Social Scheme (RSS). Participants on the scheme work 19.5hrs per week and receive a top up payment from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. To participate on the scheme you must fulfil the following criteria: Be actively farming over 1 hectare of land; Have a valid herd number; Proof of application for the EU Basic Payment Scheme for the current year and be in receipt of Farm Assist, Jobseekers Allowance or other qualifying payments.  Spouses, children, brothers and sisters of the herd owner can also join the scheme if they meet relevant criteria.  Only one person allowed per herd number.  For further details contact Tom or Michelle at West Limerick Resources on 069-61316 or Email:  [email protected].  Successful eligible candidates will be placed on a panel from which vacancies will be filled.

PROLOGUE: “A man who has committed a mistake and doesn’t correct it, is committing another mistake.”  Confucius
CHURCH NOTES: Canon Anthony Mullins 087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674 Parish Office:  Parish 068/31133 Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri.     Email: [email protected] Limerick Social Services:     061-314111   Accord NCW 069/61000.  .    Parish Church 068/51915.  Limerick Social Services:     061-314111.   A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203, 068/ 31262, 068/5198. Parish Support Worker 068/31019.   St Vincent De Paul 087/1213560.  087 – 2618412.  To book a Mass intention telephone the church 068/51915 during Mass times.  Counselling Appointment    061/314213. Accord NCW 069/61000. Samaritans: Freephone 116 123, text 087 2609090 (rates apply), email [email protected] or visit Samaritans on 20 Barrington Street, Limerick.

Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Saturday Masses 11am and 6.30pm.  Sunday 9.15am and 12 noon.  Mass Intentions: Saturday 11am    Tom Fitzgerald, Knocknasna. 6.30pm. Maureen Higgins & Monica & Michael Collins and the Collins Family.  Juliann McCarthy, Meenkilly & Collins Park.  Jack O’Grady, Dromtrasna South. Kathleen Fitzgerald, Dromtrasna North.  Sunday 9.15am Kate Naughton, Hill Road &      Denis Naughton Mountcollins.  Molly Coleman & John Coleman Manchester.  12noon Paul Collins Convent Street & Limerick.  Michael O’Sullivan Colbert Terrace.  First Friday Next Friday of the month. Confessions on Thursday after the 10am Mass.

St Joseph’s Young Priests Group will meet at 8pm in the Sacristy on Wednesday 5th Sept.  Prayers to St Anthony on Mondays during the 7pm Mass.  Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Fridays during the 10am Mass.  Counselling takes place every week in West Limerick Tel 061/3147213 for appointment.  A basket for the collection of stamps for Peru is at the back of the altar.  If you know of someone in hospital please notify Fr. Tony.

KNOCK:  Legion of Mary Pilgrimage to Knock Sunday, September 23. Coach leaving the Church Abbeyfeale at 7am sharp. Cost: €20 paid beforehand to ensure a seat. Please contact: Bernard Broderick 068 31565 Sean Broderick 068 31213 Michael Lane 068 32757 087 298084.  David Davy 087 0994272.

IRISH CANCER SOCIETY:  The church gate collection raised €1,170.00 for which the organisers thank all who manned the boxes and especially all those who contributed.

WORLD SUICIDE PREVENTION DAY:  Monday, September 10 marks World Suicide Prevention Day. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death amongst young people in Ireland and worldwide. In Ireland alone, there are about 12000 attempted suicides each year. The number of cases of suicide has stabilised since the recession with 399 last year in 2016 in comparison with 451 in 2015 and 554 in 2011, according to the National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP) annual report.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY GARDEN:  The sale of produce outside the church last weekend raised just under €800.  A huge thank you to everyone who supported us.

DANCING CLASSES: The Croghan/Greene Academy of Irish Dance with

Instructor Brendan Croghan T.C.R.G. A.D.C.R.G. will commence classes on Tuesday, September from 2-3pm for (Junior/Senior Infants) and from 3 -4pm (All other age groups) in

Teach na Féile Community Centre, New St.  Some of the benefits of Irish dancing include:

Increased physical Skills – Developing body control, muscular strength, endurance and energy levels. Motor Skill Development – Increased agility, balance and co-ordination.

Increased mental skills – Listening, following directions, increasing attention span, memorizing steps.  Weight Management – High burn calorie workout.  Term Fee: 5 weeks €40 (second family member €30).  Contact Brendan on 086-8109819 for further details.

MASS FOR ARDFERT CO-ORDINATORS:  A gathering of parish contact people who organise retreats at Ardfert retreat centre will take place on Wednesday, September 12 from 7.30-9.30pm. Mass celebrated by Fr Liam Comer 066/7134276.

FREE WORKSHOPS IN ABBEYFEALE ON ‘ZERO WASTE’ & ‘INVASIVE SPECIES’:  West Limerick Resources invites you to attend two free workshops, this September, in St. Ita’s Hall, Abbeyfeale.  ‘Zero Waste’: a workshop on highlighting and reducing unnecessary waste, on Monday, September 10, at 7:30pm.  ‘Invasive Species’: a workshop on identifying and combating Invasive Species in your local area, on Monday, September 24, at 7.30pm.  To register your place please contact Elaine, at West Limerick Resources, [email protected] or 069 66296. All are welcome to attend.

ABBEYFEALE FARMERS’ MARKET:  The Men’s Shed hope to attend the Farmers’ Market on Friday, September 7 with a selection of handmade goods. Jon, Morgan, Seamus, Helga and I as well as the members of the Men’s shed look forward to your welcome support.

ADULT SET DANCING:  for beginners with Timmy Woulfe every Monday at 8pm in the Marian Hall, Moyvane.  Everyone welcome.

CULTURE NIGHT AT THE GLÓRACH:  As part of Culture Night, on Friday, September 21 we will be screening the documentary film, ‘The Limerick Brigadistas- From the Shannon to the Ebro’.  This documentary looks at the role of the six Limerick men who fought for the Republicans against Franco during the Spanish Civil War, and included in their ranks was one Jim Woulfe from Athea who was killed in fighting in 1937.  The screening commences at 8 pm, and the event is free to all.

NATIONAL GRANDPARENTS PILGRIMAGE:  Catholic Grandparents Association Knock Shrine 2.30pm on Sunday, September 9.   Everybody welcome to honour & thank Grandparents alive & dead for all they have done for us down through the ages. Chief Celebrant Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, Apostolic Nuncio – Combined Choirs of Knock Parish – The Tuttle Family – Dana sings ‘Our Lady of Knock’.  A bus will leave the Cathedral in Killarney on Sunday, September 9 at 7am via Tralee and Listowel.  Hope to pick up in Abbeyfeale at 8.15am.   Enquiries to O’Shea’s 066 7180123.

BINGO AT THE GLÓRACH:  Bingo every Monday night at the Glórach from 8.30pm.

AFTERNOON TEA DANCING:  The Wednesday Club are hosting a fundraising tea dance in Fr. Casey’s Club House on Sunday September 9 from 3- 6pm. This event is being held on behalf of 4 year old Shane Enright from Athea Co Limerick. Shane was born with a number of serious health problems including cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease, kidney problems. He is in constant leg pain as his spine is not growing properly. All money raised will go towards the extension of the family home to meet Shane’s basic needs. This little boy needs all the help he can get to make life a little more comfortable for him. Tickets for this event can be had from or donations can be made to members of the Wednesday club care of St Ita’s Hall or from Madeline O’Connor. Convent St. Your support would be greatly appreciated by the family of this lovely little boy. A raffle will also be held on the day. Music will be by The Billy O’Brian band with special guest BIG MAGGIE.  Tickets can also be got from Benny Thade McCarthy who is helping to organise the event.

CLASS:  A free Adult Sign Language Class will resume on September 18 at the Adult Education Centre in Mountmahon.  Beginner’s classes on Tuesday nights with Level 1 on

Wednesdays. Anyone interested please contact Breda 087 7715734.

CHALLENGE:  The 5th Annual event will take place on Saturday, October 20, starting at Dromtrasna National School, Abbeyfeale. The Dromtrasna Challenge offers a unique opportunity to all members of the community to get involved through our 2K Kids Run, 4K Walk/Run and 10K Run. There is something for everyone in this year’s event. It doesn’t end there; having conquered the Dromtrasna Challenge, the after party will take place in The Winners Circle Abbeyfeale at 10pm. Entertainment will be provided by Pulse, a band that combines world-class musicianship with one of Ireland’s finest vocalists.   All proceeds from this year’s event will go to the ‘Miriam Joy Cancer Treatment Fund.

PHONE CONNECT SEEKS VOLUNTEERS : The Phone Connect project is a free community based telephone support service offered to older people in the West Limerick Area empowering them to remain independent in their own homes.   The weekly service provides a listening ear to the elderly allowing them to share any worries or concerns and to be informed of any local events or services.  West Limerick Resources is now seeking volunteers to make these phone-calls from a dedicated space where a mobile phone is available. All volunteers will be Garda Vetted and training will also be made available.  If you would be interested in volunteering or require more information, we would be delighted to hear from you so call Damien at West Limerick Resources on 087 9042477 or Stefanie on 087 3663842.

BACK2NEW FURNITURE POP UP SHOP NOW OPEN!  Re-designed and re-imagined furniture available. Now open every Wednesday and Thursday from 9.30am-4.30pm at Market Place (previously Citizens Information), Market Yard, Newcastle West.

PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP:  11am – 12.30pm every Tuesday and Thursday, St Ita’s Hall. New people always welcome. Contact Mary on 087 9382883.

ADVICE FROM COMMUNITY ALERT: Abbeyfeale Garda Station 068 30010 (if station unattended the call will automatically be forwarded to NCW station 069 20650.)  My first cousins daughter works in the National Call Centre and recently told me that the most important thing when you make an emergency call is to be able to quote your eircode.  They can dispatch an ambulance to your door instantly with the eircode so have it beside the phone or written on the back of your mobile phone.  Talking of eircodes there is a new company who can mark your property with your eircode – tractors, quads, tools – should they be stolen and subsequently recovered then the Gardai will be able to hand them over to their rightful owners.  Check out www.propertymarking.ie or James on 052 9152895.   Never, ever post holiday snaps on Facebook while you are still away, it seems that if you are broken into,  the insurance company may not have to pay out, check the small print on your policy.  Lock windows and doors even if you are only going out for a few minutes.  Put handbags in the boot not the passenger seat and lock the door when you’re in the car.  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 €66.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month.  Please note that this fee is payable in a lump sum each year after year one. Committee members are Sean Broderick, Micheal 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.

MOLADH GO DEO LE DIA:  Much of the past fifty years is captured in a book especially complied to mark the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Church of the Assumption, Abbeyfeale. The book contains many wonderful coloured photographs that show off the splendour of the Church, its stained glass windows and general embellishment.   The title of the publication is Moladh go Deo Le Dia. (Praise be to God forever). Price €10. The book is available in O’Donoghue’s, Marguerite’s, Ann Lyons’ Moss Harnett’s and following Mass.

OFFICE MOVE: Please note that the Abbeyfeale Office of West Limerick Resources has relocated to St Ita’s Hall, Convent Street, Abbeyfeale.  If you have any enquiries, please call to the office and speak to Nora or you can call Mary on 087 9382883.

RURAL SOCIAL SCHEME RECRUITING POTENTIAL PARTICIPANTS: West Limerick Resources is compiling a list of individuals interested in joining the Rural Social Scheme (RSS). Participants on the scheme work 19.5hrs per week and receive a top up payment from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. To participate on the scheme you must fulfil the following criteria: Be actively farming over 1 hectare of land; Have a valid herd number; Proof of application for the EU Basic Payment Scheme for the current year and be in receipt of Farm Assist, Jobseekers Allowance or other qualifying payments.  Spouses, children, brothers and sisters of the herd owner can also join the scheme if they meet relevant criteria.  Only one person allowed per herd number.  For further details contact Tom or Michelle at West Limerick Resources on 069-61316 or Email:  [email protected].  Successful eligible candidates will be placed on a panel from which vacancies will be filled.

PARISH OFFICE HOSTS MEETINGS: Narcotics Anonymous meet every Monday night @ 8pm in the parish Office.  Al-anon meet on Tuesday evening @ 8pm. A.A.  Meet every Wednesday afternoon @ 3pm, Friday night @ 8pm and Sunday mornings @ 10am.  These organisations are a great voluntary support to many people and we are happy to host their meetings in our parish office.

KNOCKANURE RAMBLING HOUSE:    Knockalougha, Duagh on the third Tuesday of every month.

HOLY SPIRIT PRAYER MEETING:  Janice and Moss Carraig will lead the Holy Spirit Prayer meeting on the second Sunday of each month in the Desmond Complex.  Further information on 087 6174639.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR BEREAVEMENT: Abbeyfeale Bereavement Support Group Tel. 068/31230 or 068/51984 or 068/31262.

VINCENT DE PAUL SHOP: If you have an hour or two to spare why not consider volunteering your time to help the work of St Vincent de Paul.  If you are interested contact Fr Tony on 087-2600414.  The Abbeyfeale shop will open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday each week between 10-4pm.  Further information 087 1213560.

MEDJUGORJE: 7 nights October 10-17. Contact Annemarie Tydings, 0871013804.

LISTOWEL PADRE PIO PRAYER GOURP PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK Sunday 16th September, at 7.30am. contact Bernadette on 0876019474.

COMMUNITY Centre Knockanure: Rambling House on Thursday, September 6 at 9 pm in Knockanure Community Centre.  Everyone is welcome.  Please come along and enjoy a great night of music, song and dance.  Admission free.  Refreshment will be served.  Contact Ann Flavin at 086-3090948.

ANAM CARA KERRY:  The organisation that supports bereaved parents, is holding a Bereavement Information Evening on Tuesday, September 11 at 7:30pm in the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee, Co. Kerry. This is a free event and open to all bereaved parents. As Anam Cara will need to confirm numbers for teas, coffees, etc, please RSVP to [email protected] before Monday, September 10 or call the Information Line on 085 2888 888.

ARDFERT RETREAT CENTRE (0667134276) Ballyheigue Pattern Day: Saturday, September 8 Adoration at Ardfert Retreat Centre, 1 – 4.00pm. Annual Gathering for Parish Contact People: Wednesday, September 12 from 7.30 – 9.30pm.  Fall Adult Religious Education Programme: Fr. Sean Sheehy, Topic: What does God want me to do with my life? This is an 8-session course, Wednesdays – beginning September 19.  Parental Grief Retreat: Caroline Ni Dhuinn, Emmaus Ministry for Grieving Parents USA, Saturday, September 29 from 9 -6.00pm. www.emfgp.org to register or call 7125129.

THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY’S:  National Conference is being held in the Clayton Hotel, Silver Springs, Cork on Saturday, September 22 from 10am –4pm.

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PROLOGUE:
“I will love the light for it shows me the way, yet I will endure the darkness because it shows me the stars.”
Og Mandino

DEATH:   We offer our sympathy to the family of Peg Colbert, Main Street whose funeral took place on Saturday.  May she rest in peace.

CHURCH NOTES: Canon Anthony Mullins 087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674 Parish Office:  Parish 068/31133 Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri.     Email: [email protected] Limerick Social Services:     061-314111   Accord NCW 069/61000.  .    Parish Church 068/51915.  Limerick Social Services:     061-314111.   A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203, 068/ 31262, 068/5198. Parish Support Worker 068/31019.   St Vincent De Paul 087/1213560.  087 – 2618412.  To book a Mass intention telephone the church 068/51915 during Mass times.  Counselling Appointment    061/314213. Accord NCW 069/61000. Samaritans: Freephone 116 123, text 087 2609090 (rates apply), email [email protected] or visit Samaritans on 20 Barrington Street, Limerick.

Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Saturday Masses 11am and 6.30pm.  Sunday 9.15am and 12 noon.  Mass Intentions: Friday August 31. 10am Micheal Griffin.  7pm   Fire Brigade Celebrate 50 years. Saturday 11am   Tess Collins, Convent Street Months Mind 6.30pm James & Bridget O’Mara, Church St.   Mike Doran Months Mind.  Jimmy Sheedy, Kilconlea Upper.  Sunday 9.15am Mary B McEnery, Dromtrasna.  12noon Sean Cahill & Hannah Cahill, Knocknasna.

Prayers to St Anthony on Mondays during the 7pm Mass.  Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Fridays during the 10am Mass.  Counselling takes place every week in West Limerick Tel 061/3147213 for appointment.  A basket for the collection of stamps for Peru is at the back of the altar.  If you know of someone in hospital please notify Fr. Tony.

KNOCK:  Legion of Mary Pilgrimage to Knock Sunday, September 23. Coach leaving the Church Abbeyfeale at 7am sharp. Cost: €20 paid beforehand to ensure a seat. Please contact: Bernard Broderick 068 31565 Sean Broderick 068 31213 Michael Lane 068 32757 087 298084.  David Davy 087 0994272.

FIRE BRIGADE 0PEN DAY:  Fifty years ago in 1968, a group of men formed the first crew of Abbeyfeale Fire Service.  To date 36 members have served the town and its community and to mark this 50^th anniversary a special Mass will be held this Friday August 31 at 7pm.  Then on Saturday September 1  the Fire station will open to members public from 12 –  4pm.There will be a display of some old equipment that was used in 1968 and some of the new equipment used today.  The Fire Service plays a very important role in the town and the surrounding community so why not come along and bring the kids and see for yourselves the role it plays.

TRADITIONAL MUSIC CLASSES:  Information night and enrolling for a new season of traditional music classes organised by Templeglantine Comhaltas will take place at Halla Inse Bhán 7.15-8.30pm on Monday next, September 3.   This will cater for registering of new pupils as well as those who have been attending previously. The music classes have a dedicated team of tutors who cater for most instruments associated with traditional music. All information concerning the commencement of classes will be given at enrolling on Monday next. It is important that existing pupils who are returning for the new season be registered at the enrolling night so that arrangements can be put in place for the commencement of classes. The classes have been very successful over the years, enabling pupils to participate in a wide range of activities and getting much enjoyment from their involvement. Enquiries re classes 087 9654451.

ABBEYFEALE CELEBRATES HERITAGE DAY:  A sincere thank you to everyone who helped make Abbeyfeale Heritage Day a success.  Tom Enright as Patrick Harnett, Lorcan Curtin as Jeramiah Healy, Richie Roach as the Black & Tan Thomas Huckerby, Ruairi Dennison and Jimmy Dennison as the Cistercian Monks and of course the divine Riona Curtin as Princess Cristina di Belgiojoso.  Thanks to Conor Lyons of Lyons Drapery and Angela OGrady of the Bobbin Case for the supplying of Outfits.   Thanks to Niamh Ní Lochlainn for her talk on the Bean Feasa / Wise Woman Joan Grogan from Athea.
Thanks to Olive and Maurice Sheehan of Leens Hotel for the refreshments afterwards.
A huge thank you to everyone to turned out to support the event.

BREAKING NEWS:  There is going to be another Harnett Reunion and this time it’s going International!  It will be based at the Devon Inn Hotel on the weekend of July 11-14 next year and a programme of events is currently being put in place.  There will be rooms to book, travel arrangements to make, connections to re-establish so spread the word to everyone you know who has left these shores over the years.  We want to make it the biggest and best family re-union in Abbeyfeale next year.

ELEANOR MC EVOY IN CONCERT AT THE GLÓRACH: Eleanor McEvoy the Irish singer/songwriter who composed the song “Only a Woman’s Heart” will perform at the Glórach on Friday, August 31 at 8.30pm.

Excitement is high and tickets €20 are flying out the door so get onto 087 1383940 and reserve your seat asap.

BRINGING BACK THE SHOWBANDS CONCERT:   Duagh Sports & Leisure Complex  Thursday, August 30 with Paddy Cole, Linda Martin, Ronan Collins, Shaun O’Dowd, The Conquerors, and Keith & Lorraine. This is in memory of the late Fr. Pat Moore who was one the directors of the complex. A donation from each ticket will go toward the Kerry/Cork Health Link bus. Tickets are available from the following numbers. 087-2273755 or 087-2684540. Doors open at 7.30pm for 8.30 start.

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ABBEYFEALE FARMERS’ MARKET:  Helga Henn is delighted to announce that she has her usual fine selection of locally grown vegetables for sale on Friday mornings. The Men’s Shed hope to attend the Farmers’ Market on Friday, September 7 with a selection of handmade goods. Jon, Morgan, Seamus, Helga and I as well as the members of the Men’s shed look forward to your welcome support.

NATIONAL GRANDPARENTS PILGRIMAGE:  Catholic Grandparents Association Knock Shrine 2.30pm on Sunday, September 9.   Everybody welcome to honour & thank Grandparents alive & dead for all they have done for us down through the ages. Chief Celebrant Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, Apostolic Nuncio – Combined Choirs of Knock Parish – The Tuttle Family – Dana sings ‘Our Lady of Knock’.  A bus will leave the Cathedral in Killarney on Sunday, September 9 at 7am via Tralee and Listowel.  Hope to pick up in Abbeyfeale at 8.15am.   Enquiries to O’Shea’s 066 7180123.

BINGO AT THE GLÓRACH:  Bingo every Monday night at the Glórach from 8.30pm.

AFTERNOON TEA DANCING:  The Wednesday Club are hosting a fundraising tea dance in Fr.Casey’s Club House on Sunday September 9 from 3- 6pm. This event is being held on behalf of 4 year old Shane Enright from Athea Co Limerick. Shane was born with a number of serious health problems including cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease, kidney problems. He is in constant leg pain as his spine is not growing properly. All money raised will go towards the extension of the family home to meet Shane’s basic needs. This little boy needs all the help he can get to make life a little more comfortable for him. Tickets for this event can be had from or donations can be made to members of the Wednesday club care of St Itas hall or from Madeline O’Connor. Convent St. Your support would be greatly appreciated by the family of this lovely little boy. A raffle will also be held on the day. Music will be by The Billy O’Brian band with special guest BIG MAGGIE.  Tickets can also be got from Benny Thade McCarthy who is helping to organise the event.

CLASS:  A free Adult Sign Language Class will resume on September 18 at the Adult Education Centre in Mountmahon.  Beginner’s classes on Tuesday nights with Level 1 on

Wednesdays. Anyone interested please contact Breda 087 7715734.

CHALLENGE:  The 5th Annual event will take place on Saturday, October 20, starting at Dromtrasna National School, Abbeyfeale. The Dromtrasna Challenge offers a unique opportunity to all members of the community to get involved through our 2K Kids Run, 4K Walk/Run and 10K Run. There is something for everyone in this year’s event. It doesn’t end there; having conquered the Dromtrasna Challenge, the after party will take place in The Winners Circle Abbeyfeale at 10pm. Entertainment will be provided by Pulse, a band that combines world-class musicianship with one of Ireland’s finest vocalists.   All proceeds from this year’s event will go to the ‘Miriam Joy Cancer Treatment Fund.

PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP:  11am – 12.30pm every Tuesday and Thursday, St Ita’s Hall. New people always welcome. Contact Mary on 087 9382883.

ADVICE FROM COMMUNITY ALERT: Abbeyfeale Garda Station 068 30010 (if station unattended the call will automatically be forwarded to NCW station 069 20650.)  My first cousins daughter works in the National Call Centre and recently told me that the most important thing when you make an emergency call is to be able to quote your eircode.  They can dispatch an ambulance to your door instantly with the eircode so have it beside the phone or written on the back of your mobile phone.  Talking of eircodes there is a new company who can mark your property with your eircode – tractors, quads, tools – should they be stolen and subsequently recovered then the Gardai will be able to hand them over to their rightful owners.  Check out www.propertymarking.ie or James on 052 9152895.   Never, ever post holiday snaps on Facebook while you are still away, it seems that if you are broken into,  the insurance company may not have to pay out, check the small print on your policy.  Lock windows and doors even if you are only going out for a few minutes.  Put handbags in the boot not the passenger seat and lock the door when you’re in the car.  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 €66.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month.  Please note that this fee is payable in a lump sum each year after year one. Committee members are Sean Broderick, Micheal 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.

MOLADH GO DEO LE DIA:  Much of the past fifty years is captured in a book especially complied to mark the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Church of the Assumption, Abbeyfeale. The book contains many wonderful coloured photographs that show off the splendour of the Church, its stained glass windows and general embellishment.   The title of the publication is Moladh go Deo Le Dia. (Praise be to God forever). Price €10. The book is available in O’Donoghue’s, Marguerite’s, Ann Lyons’ Moss Harnett’s and following Mass.

ST PIO 50^TH ANNIVERSARY PILGRIMAGE: Fr. Pat Crean-Lynch has organised a pilgrimage to Italy from September 21-28, which will include two  nights  in  Assissi,  three  nights  in  San  Giovanni Rotondo  and  two  nights  in  Rome.  For more  information or to obtain a booking form contact Fr. Pat on 087 6709491.

PHONE CONNECT SEEKS VOLUNTEERS : The Phone Connect project is a free community based telephone support service offered to older people in the West Limerick Area empowering them to remain independent in their own homes.   The weekly service provides a listening ear to the elderly allowing them to share any worries or concerns and to be informed of any local events or services.  West Limerick Resources is now seeking volunteers to make these phone-calls from a dedicated space where a mobile phone is available. All volunteers will be Garda Vetted and training will also be made available.  If you would be interested in volunteering or require more information, we would be delighted to hear from you so call Damien at West Limerick Resources on 087 9042477 or Stefanie on 087 3663842.

BACK2NEW FURNITURE POP UP SHOP NOW OPEN!  Re-designed and re-imagined furniture available. Now open every Wednesday and Thursday from 9.30am-4.30pm at Market Place (previously Citizens Information), Market Yard, Newcastle West.

OFFICE MOVE: Please note that the Abbeyfeale Office of West Limerick Resources has relocated to St Ita’s Hall, Convent Street, Abbeyfeale.  If you have any enquiries, please call to the office and speak to Nora or you can call Mary on 087 9382883.

RURAL SOCIAL SCHEME RECRUITING POTENTIAL PARTICIPANTS: West Limerick Resources is compiling a list of individuals interested in joining the Rural Social Scheme (RSS). Participants on the scheme work 19.5hrs per week and receive a top up payment from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. To participate on the scheme you must fulfil the following criteria: Be actively farming over 1 hectare of land; Have a valid herd number; Proof of application for the EU Basic Payment Scheme for the current year and be in receipt of Farm Assist, Jobseekers Allowance or other qualifying payments.  Spouses, children, brothers and sisters of the herd owner can also join the scheme if they meet relevant criteria.  Only one person allowed per herd number.  For further details contact Tom or Michelle at West Limerick Resources on 069-61316 or Email:  [email protected].  Successful eligible candidates will be placed on a panel from which vacancies will be filled.

TIPS ON CONSERVING WATER:  Place a full litre bottle of water in the cistern in the toilet which will reduce the volume of water at each flush.  Have shorter showers – an average shower uses 10 litres of water per minute, turn off the tap when washing your teeth.  Use a basin to wash the ware and then use the water for watering the flowers.  Washing up liquid will do no harm to the plants and vegetable water will add nutrients to the soil.  Pour the cold tea out of the pot on the vegetables.  Only do a wash when you have a full load.  Invest in a water butt under the down pipe.

TOUR OF WEXFORD:  Why not join us for a 4 day tour of Wexford taking place from Monday,  September 3, staying in a four star hotel. We will visit New Ross (including the famous Ros Tapestry Exhibition Centre), Johnstown Castle Agri museum, Our Lady’s, Bunclody, Ferns, Loftus Hall, Ballyhack, the Father Murphy, Hook Head, the Kennedy homestead, 1798 rebellion  centre, Enniscorthy Castle, Tintern  Abbey and Kilmore. For further information contact Pat O’Donovan, Newcastlewest on 087 9977340 (Thomond Archaeological and Historical Society).

TARBERT HOUSE: is open for visitors and will remain open until August 31. The house is open Monday –Saturday, book with Ursula Leslie at 068-36198.

PARISH OFFICE HOSTS MEETINGS: Narcotics Anonymous meet every Monday night @ 8pm in the parish Office.  Al-anon meet on Tuesday evening @ 8pm. A.A.  Meet every Wednesday afternoon @ 3pm, Friday night @ 8pm and Sunday mornings @ 10am.  These organisations are a great voluntary support to many people and we are happy to host their meetings in our parish office.

KNOCKANURE RAMBLING HOUSE:    Knockalougha, Duagh on the third Tuesday of every month.

HOLY SPIRIT PRAYER MEETING:  Janice and Moss Carraig will lead the Holy Spirit Prayer meeting on the second Sunday of each month in the Desmond Complex.  Further information on 087 6174639.

LIVING WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES? Let us help. Book a place on our free X-PERT course (6 weeks, 2 ½ hours). The course is run by HSE Community Dietitians. Visit www.hse.ie/xpert or call 087 673 4035 to book a place on an upcoming course in Killarney. A day time and an evening time course will begin in Killarney in mid-September.

BALLYHAHILL SOCIAL DANCING CLASSES:  Classes the summer months in Ballyhahill Community Centre in social dancing on Monday at 8pm.  All are welcome.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR BEREAVEMENT: Abbeyfeale Bereavement Support Group Tel. 068/31230 or 068/51984 or 068/31262.

ST PIO PILGRIMAGE TO SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO & ASSISI: on the 50th Anniversary of the death of St. Pio, with the Killarney St Pio Prayer Group September 21-27. For more information visit www.marian.ie or contact Group organiser Michael Clifford on 085 1309835 or email [email protected].

VINCENT DE PAUL SHOP: If you have an hour or two to spare why not consider volunteering your time to help the work of St Vincent de Paul.  If you are interested contact Fr Tony on 087-2600414.  The Abbeyfeale shop will open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday each week between 10-4pm.  Further information 087 1213560.

MEDJUGORJE: 7 nights October 10-17. Contact Annemarie Tydings, 0871013804.

KERRY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES led by Bishop Ray Browne will take place from September 2-7 ex Kerry Airport cost €785. To book call Janice O Sullivan on 064-7758219 or email joskdp@eircom.

STUDY THEOLOGY BY DISTANCE LEARNING: Flexible and Accessible Courses. Attend Saturday lectures in Tallaght or online from the comfort of your own home and build modules towards a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology. Application deadline September 25.   Call 01 404 8124 or visit www.prioryinstitute.com.

DANIEL O’CONNELL:   Summer School begins at Cahersiveen on August 31 next.

PROLOGUE:  A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don’t necessarily want to go, but ought to be.”
Rosalynn Carter

WEDDING BELLS:  Katriona Donovan and Patrick Moloney celebrated the sacrament of marriage on Saturday, August 18.  We wish them every happiness in their married life together.

CHURCH NOTES: Canon Anthony Mullins 087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674 Parish Office:  Parish 068/31133 Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri.     Email: [email protected] Limerick Social Services:     061-314111   Accord NCW 069/61000.  .    Parish Church 068/51915.  Limerick Social Services:     061-314111.   A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203, 068/ 31262, 068/5198. Parish Support Worker 068/31019.   St Vincent De Paul 087/1213560.  087 – 2618412.  To book a Mass intention telephone the church 068/51915 during Mass times.  Counselling Appointment    061/314213. Accord NCW 069/61000. Samaritans: 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 061-306792.   Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Saturday Masses 11am and 6.30pm.  Sunday 9.15am and 12 noon.  Mass Intentions: Thursday10am   Timothy & Liz McAuliffe, Mountmahon.   James & Hannah O’Connor, Ballaugh.    Saturday 6.30pm   Bridget White, Knocknasna and deceased family members. Timmie O’Rourke, Clash Rd 1st Anniversary.   Jamesy & Nora Dennison, Convent St Sunday 9.15am Teresa Lyons, New St.  12noon Jerry Foley, St Ita’s Terrace.  Monday, August 27 Canon James Neville Month Mind.    Friday August 31 @ 7pm   Fire Brigade Celebrate 50 years .

Prayers to St Anthony on Mondays during the 7pm Mass.  Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Fridays during the 10am Mass.  Counselling takes place every week in West Limerick Tel 061/3147213 for appointment.  A basket for the collection of stamps for Peru is at the back of the altar.  If you know of someone in hospital please notify Fr. Tony.

ABBEYFEALE CELEBRATES HERITAGE DAY:  Sunday, August 26 at 2.30pm – Meet and Greet in Bridge Street (Outside Twohig’s), Talk and Live re-enactment on The Killing of Patrick Harnett and Jeramiah Healy in 1920.   3.00pm – The Square – Talk and Live re-enactment on the preparing of material for the building of the Old Abbey by Monks in 1188 3.20pm – The Square – Talk and Live re-enactment on the arrival of Princess Cristina di Belgiojoso in Abbeyfeale in 1839. 3.40pm – Leen’s Hotel Talk by renowned Folklorist Niamh Ní Lochlainn on “Bean Feasa” / “Wise Woman” Joan Grogan of Athea. Note: All characters taking part in live re-enactments will be dressed according to the style of that period and time. Wonderful opportunity for the young and those of us who are 21 and a bit to step back in time and engage with our past

WATCH THE PAPAL MASS IN ST. JOHN’S:  For those of you who are unable to attend the Papal Mass in the Phoenix Park there will be a screening of the Mass at 3pm in St. John’s Cathedral next Sunday.   All are welcome.

ELEANOR MC EVOY IN CONCERT AT THE GLÓRACH: Eleanor McEvoy the Irish singer/songwriter who composed the song “Only a Woman’s Heart” will perform at the Glórach on Friday, August 31 at 8.30pm.

Her new album “The Thomas Moore Project” was launched in Ireland’s National Concert Hall and features 21st century adaptations of the songs of the 18th/19th century Irish poet Thomas Moore.  It became RTE 1’s album of the week the week it was released and received rave reviews in Ireland, Hot Press magazine saying “McEvoy has re-established the relevance of one of Ireland’s most important yet most besmirched national artists” and the Irish Times describing it as “a highly evocative collection” Tickets €20.  Bookings on 087 1383940.

BRINGING BACK THE SHOWBANDS CONCERT:   Duagh Sports & Leisure Complex  Thursday, August 30 with Paddy Cole, Linda Martin, Ronan Collins, Shaun O’Dowd, The Conquerors, and Keith & Lorraine. This is in memory of the late Fr. Pat Moore who was one the directors of the complex. A donation from each ticket will go toward the Kerry/Cork Health Link bus. Tickets are available from the following numbers. 087-2273755 or 087-2684540. Doors open at 7.30pm for 8.30 start.

BUS TRAVELLING TO DUBLIN FOR POPE’S VISIT:  Contact Eoin Stack 087 2522402 or Paddy O’Sullivan 087 2213876.  If you have not already registered then there are tickets available from the bus company.  Bus will leave Abbeyfeale at 7am.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH COMMUNITY GARDEN:  We are currently harvesting in the garden and hope to hold a second sale of our produce on Sunday, September 1 after the 9.15am and 12 noon Masses.  We will be making a donation to a charity called Bakery for Nairobi which is run by a friend of Helga Henn’s, a donation to help with the devastating flooding in India and the remainder of the proceeds will go to Fr. Tim Galvin’s Mission in South Sudan.

GOING FOR GOLD:  Congratulations to Abbeyfeale Tidy Towns Committee on reaching the Finals of the JP McManus sponsored Limerick Going for Gold Competition which is due to take place later in the year. As part of the competition, a live interview took place on Limericks Live 95FM last Thursday morning where Abbeyfeale Tidy Towns were up against five other Groups throughout the County. The outcome however was decided by a public Vote that followed the show and which saw Abbeyfeale secure 42% of overall votes submitted which ultimately secured their place at the Finals.

ABBEYFEALE FARMERS’ MARKET:  Helga Henn is delighted to announce that the Hungry Gap has come to an end and she now has her usual fine selection of locally grown vegetables for sale on Friday mornings. The Men’s Shed hope to attend the Farmers’ Market on Friday, September 7 with a selection of handmade goods. Jon, Morgan, Seamus, Helga and I as well as the members of the Men’s shed look forward to your welcome support.

BINGO AT THE GLÓRACH:  Bingo every Monday night at the Glórach from 8.30pm.

SUCCESSFUL FUNDING APPLICATION:  Huge praise has followed Abbeyfeale Community Councils work with numerous Groups around Abbeyfeale after news broke on Friday morning last that no less than ten Community Enhancement Programme (CEP) Applications had been approved for funding by Limerick’s Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) chaired by West Limerick municipal councillor Jerome Scanlon.   Councillor Seamus Browne from Abbeyfeale is a member of the committee and the funding applications were subsequently approved by Limerick City & County Council.

Seven different Groups in Abbeyfeale will benefit. All applications were jointly submitted by Abbeyfeale Community Council and the respective Group.

1. Abbeyfeale Tidy Towns (I) = €984

2. Abbeyfeale Sign Language Group = €849

3. Mountmahon Graveyard Committee = €989

4. Abbeyfeale Heritage Committee = €900

5. Abbeyfeale Tidy Towns (II) = €607

6. Abbeyfeale Arts & Crafts Co-Op (I) = €700

7. Abbeyfeale Men’s Shed = €1,000

8. Abbeyfeale Arts & Crafts Co-Op (II) = €1,000

9. Abbeyfeale Town Park = €1,000

10. Abbeyfeale Tidy Towns (III) = €5,870

Total being awarded is almost = €14,000

AFTERNOON TEA DANCING:  The Wednesday Club are hosting a fundraising tea dance in Fr.Casey’s Club House on Sunday September 9 from 3- 6pm. This event is being held on behalf of 4 year old Shane Enright from Athea Co Limerick. Shane was born with a number of serious health problems including cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease, kidney problems. He is in constant leg pain as his spine is not growing properly. All money raised will go towards the extension of the family home to meet Shane’s basic needs. This little boy needs all the help he can get to make life a little more comfortable for him. Tickets for this event can be had from or donations can be made to members of the Wednesday club care of St Itas hall or from Madeline O’Connor. Convent St. Your support would be greatly appreciated by the family of this lovely little boy. A raffle will also be held on the day. Music will be by The Billy O’Brian band with special guest BIG MAGGIE.  Tickets can also be got from Benny Thade McCarthy who is helping to organise the event.

RAMBLING HOUSE:  The monthly rambling house in Fr. Casey’s organised by Benny Thade McCarthy resumes on Monday, September 3 with proceeds to the Abbeyfeale Chernobyl Fund.

CLASS:  A free Adult Sign Language Class will resume on September 18 at the Adult Education Centre in Mountmahon.  Beginner’s classes on Tuesday nights with Level 1 on

Wednesdays. Anyone interested please contact Breda 087 7715734.

CHALLENGE:  The 5th Annual event will take place on Saturday, October 20, starting at Dromtrasna National School, Abbeyfeale. The Dromtrasna Challenge offers a unique opportunity to all members of the community to get involved through our 2K Kids Run, 4K Walk/Run and 10K Run. There is something for everyone in this year’s event. It doesn’t end there; having conquered the Dromtrasna Challenge, the after party will take place in The Winners Circle Abbeyfeale at 10pm. Entertainment will be provided by Pulse, a band that combines world-class musicianship with one of Ireland’s finest vocalists.   All proceeds from this year’s event will go to the ‘Miriam Joy Cancer Treatment Fund.

PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP:  11am – 12.30pm every Tuesday and Thursday, St Ita’s Hall. New people always welcome. Contact Mary on 087 9382883.

SUPPORTING ABBEYFEALE:  Please support the small businesses in our town so as to enable them to stay open.  Don’t forget that they are the shop owners that support us when we are out looking for sponsorship to keep our sports clubs and youth facilities open.  They are the people who are always willing to come up with a voucher or a bottle of wine for a spot prize but if we don’t support them they’ll all be gone.  So the next time you want to buy an outfit or something for the house see what’s available in town first before heading for the city.  Buying the basics like toilet rolls, milk, bread, newspapers, soap etc. in a small shop means a lot to them and helps keep the money circulating in the area.

ADVICE FROM COMMUNITY ALERT: Abbeyfeale Garda Station 068 30010 (if station unattended the call will automatically be forwarded to NCW station 069 20650.)  My first cousins daughter works in the National Call Centre and recently told me that the most important thing when you make an emergency call is to be able to quote your eircode.  They can dispatch an ambulance to your door instantly with the eircode so have it beside the phone or written on the back of your mobile phone.  Talking of eircodes there is a new company who can mark your property with your eircode – tractors, quads, tools – should they be stolen and subsequently recovered then the Gardai will be able to hand them over to their rightful owners.  Check out www.propertymarking.ie or James on 052 9152895.   Never, ever give banking details to anyone on the phone or at the door. Lock windows and doors even if you are only going out for a few minutes.  Put handbags in the boot not the passenger seat and lock the door when you’re in the car.  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 €66.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month.  Please note that this fee is payable in a lump sum each year after year one. Committee members are Sean Broderick, Micheal 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.

MOLADH GO DEO LE DIA:  Much of the past fifty years is captured in a book especially complied to mark the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Church of the Assumption, Abbeyfeale. The book contains many wonderful coloured photographs that show off the splendour of the Church, its stained glass windows and general embellishment.   The title of the publication is Moladh go Deo Le Dia. (Praise be to God forever). Price €10. The book is available in O’Donoghue’s, Marguerite’s, Ann Lyons’ Moss Harnett’s and following Mass.

INFORMATION EVENING: A Bereavement Support Information Evening will take place in Milford Care Centre on Tuesday, August 28 from 7- 8.30pm at Milford Care Centre.  The bereavement information evening is designed to give general information on grief and bereavement to bereaved people, their family and friends. Bereavement Counsellors will be in attendance to provide general information on Grief and Bereavement.  The information evening is Free.

ST PIO 50^TH ANNIVERSARY PILGRIMAGE: Fr. Pat Crean-Lynch has organised a pilgrimage to Italy from September 21-28, which will include two  nights  in  Assissi,  three  nights  in  San  Giovanni Rotondo  and  two  nights  in  Rome.  For more  information or to obtain a booking form contact Fr. Pat on 087 6709491.

COMMUNITY ALERT:  There is a new campaign on staying safe on the Internet.  Its http://www.gov.ie go to the search box and write in Be Safe Online.  There’s loads of tips available.

NATIONAL GRANDPARENTS PILGRIMAGE:  Catholic Grandparents Association Knock Shrine 2.30pm on Sunday, September 9.   Everybody welcome to honour & thank Grandparents alive & dead for all they have done for us down through the ages. Chief Celebrant Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, Apostolic Nuncio – Combined Choirs of Knock Parish – The Tuttle Family -  Dana sings ‘Our Lady of Knock’.  A bus will leave the Cathedral in Killarney on Sunday, September 9 at 7am via Tralee and Listowel.  Hope to pick up in Abbeyfeale at 8.15am.   Enquiries to O’Shea’s 066 7180123.

PHONE CONNECT SEEKS VOLUNTEERS : The Phone Connect project is a free community based telephone support service offered to older people in the West Limerick Area empowering them to remain independent in their own homes.   The weekly service provides a listening ear to the elderly allowing them to share any worries or concerns and to be informed of any local events or services.  West Limerick Resources is now seeking volunteers to make these phone-calls from a dedicated space where a mobile phone is available. All volunteers will be Garda Vetted and training will also be made available.  If you would be interested in volunteering or require more information, we would be delighted to hear from you so call Damien at West Limerick Resources on 087 9042477 or Stefanie on 087 3663842.

BACK2NEW FURNITURE POP UP SHOP NOW OPEN!  Re-designed and re-imagined furniture available. Now open every Wednesday and Thursday from 9.30am-4.30pm at Market Place (previously Citizens Information), Market Yard, Newcastle West.

OFFICE MOVE: Please note that the Abbeyfeale Office of West Limerick Resources has relocated to St Ita’s Hall, Convent Street, Abbeyfeale.  If you have any enquiries, please call to the office and speak to Nora or you can call Mary on 087 9382883.

DESMOND Hall NCW: To mark the centenary of the struggle for women’s rights in Ireland, on Thursday, August 23 at 8pm, historian and author Dr. Pádraig Óg Ó Ruairc will give a talk entitled “The women who died for Ireland” detailing the lives and deaths of the eight members of Cumann na mBan who were killed fighting for Irish freedom in the years 1918 to 1923.  The highlight of the Heritage Week Programme will come on Sunday, August 26 at 8pm when three of Ireland’s leading historian’s television presenter Donal Fallon, radio broadcaster John Dorney and author Tom Toomey will each discuss the Conscription Crisis, The 1918 General Election.

RURAL SOCIAL SCHEME RECRUITING POTENTIAL PARTICIPANTS: West Limerick Resources is compiling a list of individuals interested in joining the Rural Social Scheme (RSS). Participants on the scheme work 19.5hrs per week and receive a top up payment from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. To participate on the scheme you must fulfil the following criteria: Be actively farming over 1 hectare of land; Have a valid herd number; Proof of application for the EU Basic Payment Scheme for the current year and be in receipt of Farm Assist, Jobseekers Allowance or other qualifying payments.  Spouses, children, brothers and sisters of the herd owner can also join the scheme if they meet relevant criteria.  Only one person allowed per herd number.  For further details contact Tom or Michelle at West Limerick Resources on 069-61316 or Email:  [email protected].  Successful eligible candidates will be placed on a panel from which vacancies will be filled.

TIPS ON CONSERVING WATER:  Place a full litre bottle of water in the cistern in the toilet which will reduce the volume of water at each flush.  Have shorter showers – an average shower uses 10 litres of water per minute, turn off the tap when washing your teeth.  Use a basin to wash the ware and then use the water for watering the flowers.  Washing up liquid will do no harm to the plants and vegetable water will add nutrients to the soil.  Pour the cold tea out of the pot on the vegetables.  Only do a wash when you have a full load.  Invest in a water butt under the down pipe.

TOUR OF WEXFORD:  Why not join us for a 4 day tour of Wexford taking place from Monday,  September 3, staying in a four star hotel. We will visit New Ross (including the famous Ros Tapestry Exhibition Centre), Johnstown Castle Agri museum, Our Lady’s, Bunclody, Ferns, Loftus Hall, Ballyhack, the Father Murphy, Hook Head, the Kennedy homestead, 1798 rebellion  centre, Enniscorthy Castle, Tintern  Abbey and Kilmore. For further information contact Pat O’Donovan, Newcastlewest on 087 9977340 (Thomond Archaeological and Historical Society).

TARBERT HOUSE: is open for visitors and will remain open until August 31. The house is open Monday –Saturday, book with Ursula Leslie at 068-36198.

PARISH OFFICE HOSTS MEETINGS: Narcotics Anonymous meet every Monday night @ 8pm in the parish Office.  Al-anon meet on Tuesday evening @ 8pm. A.A.  Meet every Wednesday afternoon @ 3pm, Friday night @ 8pm and Sunday mornings @ 10am.  These organisations are a great voluntary support to many people and we are happy to host their meetings in our parish office.

KNOCKANURE RAMBLING HOUSE:    Knockalougha, Duagh on the third Tuesday of every month.

HOLY SPIRIT PRAYER MEETING:  Janice and Moss Carraig will lead the Holy Spirit Prayer meeting on the second Sunday of each month in the Desmond Complex.  Further information on 087 6174639.

BALLYHAHILL SOCIAL DANCING CLASSES:  Classes have resumed for the summer months in Ballyhahill Community Centre in social dancing on Monday at 8pm.  All are welcome.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR BEREAVEMENT: Abbeyfeale Bereavement Support Group Tel. 068/31230 or 068/51984 or 068/31262.

LIMERICK WRITERS’ CENTRE:  Join us on Friday, August 24 for a magical trip around Co Limerick and a guided tour of places associated with the poets of the Gaelic tradition: Michael Hartnett; Daithi O Bruadair; Sean O Tuama and many more, taking in Newcastle West, Broadford; Ardagh/Athea; Bruree and Croom, – home of The Maigue.  €15 per person.  Contact
Contact Dominic at 087 2996409 or email [email protected]

ST PIO PILGRIMAGE TO SAN GIOVANNI ROTONDO & ASSISI: on the 50th Anniversary of the death of St. Pio, with the Killarney St Pio Prayer Group September 21-27. For more information visit www.marian.ie or contact Group organiser Michael Clifford on 085 1309835 or email [email protected].

VINCENT DE PAUL SHOP: If you have an hour or two to spare why not consider volunteering your time to help the work of St Vincent de Paul.  If you are interested contact Fr Tony on 087-2600414.  The Abbeyfeale shop will open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday each week between 10-4pm.  Further information 087 1213560.

MEDJUGORJE: 7 nights October 10-17. Contact Annemarie Tydings, 0871013804.

KERRY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES led by Bishop Ray Browne will take place from September 2-7 ex Kerry Airport cost €785. To book call Janice O Sullivan on 064-7758219 or email joskdp@eircom.

ARDAGH COMMEMORATIONS:  On Thursday August 23 a talk by Dr Bill O’Brien U.C.C. will be held in the Community Centre at 7.30pm. The title is ‘ Hill Fort the Bronze Age Capital of Limerick’ and it will be followed by tea and cake. This event is in association with Heritage week.

STUDY THEOLOGY BY DISTANCE LEARNING: Flexible and Accessible Courses. Attend Saturday lectures in Tallaght or online from the comfort of your own home and build modules towards a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology. Application deadline September 25.   Call 01 404 8124 or visit www.prioryinstitute.com.

DANIEL O’CONNELL:   Summer School begins at Cahersiveen on August 31 next.