Notices

“Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig dhuit!”

Archbishop Michael Lenihan.

We send our congratulations to Bishop Michael Lenihan, originally from Cragg, Abbeyfeale, who on Saturday 11^th of March was installed as Archbishop of San Pedro Sula archdiocese, Honduras. Archbishop Michael has served as bishop of the diocese of La Ceiba in Honduras, since 2012. He is the first archbishop of the new diocese. We wish Archbishop Michael every success in his new role. We assure him of our prayers and we look forward to welcoming him home in the near future.
We congratulate his family and friends in Abbeyfeale, Mountcollins and Athea.

PROLOGUE:  Don’t cry over the past, it’s gone.  Don’t stress over the future, it hasn’t arrived.  Live in the present and make the best of it.

FIRST CRAFT FAIR IN ABBEYFEALE:  Saturday, March 4 from 10-2pm in the Square. Everyone welcome to browse the large number of stalls expected.

WEST LIMERICK SINGING CLUB:  First Friday of the month in the Ramble Inn March 3.  Everyone Welcome.

DRAMA WORKSHOP IN ABBEYFEALE: John Nelligan  sent the following; “ Anyone  can  Whistle!  If that’s true, and it is; then that principle will, also, hold good for the assertion that “Anyone can Act”. As we, all, know the journey of a thousand miles starts with that very first, faltering, step. Equally, the path to a career in Hollywood starts with attendance at the Drama League of Ireland workshop on acting skills at Glórach on March 25^th.   Famous actors, from our Tri-County area of Cork, Kerry and Limerick, who benefitted, greatly, from attending acting workshops are, Cillian Murphy, Michael Fassbender, Richard Harris, Fiona Shaw and Lorcan Curtin.  Somebody once said that: “Life is an act and we are all actors in the arena of life.”  Therefore, a helping hand in navigating the currents of modern life is always welcome.  So, don’t delay in booking one of the, just, twenty places available, by e-mailing [email protected] or phoning  01 296 9343.  Attendance costs €20, with the workshop opening at 10am and closing at 5pm.”

TOURIST OFFICE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Work has started on bringing a Tourist Office to Abbeyfeale and you can help make it happen! Are you a proud Abbeyfeale person? Do you have 2 hours or more per week to welcome visitors to our beautiful town and give them some information that will help them enjoy their visit? We have hours to suit your lifestyle. The new Tourist Office will be in the WorkBase E-Hub building on Abbeyfeale’s main street. Full training will be provided Contact [email protected] if you are interested.

DOG WARDEN: It may be the excitement of the sight of the straight road stretching from the Search and Rescue headquarters all the way up to the Town park and the promise of a walk there but the pavement from there on is covered in dog poop and my local correspondent tells me that the plan is to patrol the road for the next few weeks in order to find the owners who are not equipped with plastic bags.  There is a substantial fine following the offence of not cleaning up after your pooch.

LOOKING FOR LOVE AND WEDDING NIGHT BLUES:  The Spike Players, Knocknagoshel present two one act plays in Ratheenagh Community Centre for one night only Saturday, March 4.  Doors open 7.15pm. Admission €10.  Raffle.

INVITATION FROM OUR NEIGHBOURING PARISH:  Tournafulla GAA club are now taking names for boys – beginners to U1- that are interested in beginning to learn hurling with Tournafulla .  Make new friends, have great fun, stay healthy, learn basic movements along with the basic skills of Hurling.  Our Training will commence from March/ April – date TBC on Wednesday/Fridays at our pitch facilities at Tournafulla GAA Club.  Beginners are those aged 5-7 (or those having started school since September 2022). Any older kids that are living in the parishes Tournafulla ,  Mountcollins, and Abbeyfeale are also more than welcome .to join us and see if GAA may interest them. All are very welcome and we look forward to shortly seeing our new GAA Beginners for 2023.Club Contacts: Dan Horgan 087 6410894  or Seamus o Sullivan 086 8263454- once contact has been made (Txt Msg/Call) you will be added to the relevant Whats App for 2023 training sessions. If you have any queries please feel free to contact Dan/Seamus.

“TEARING AND DRAGGING”:  Abbeyside Players present a comedy by John Hank Regan at the Glorach Theatre on Thursday, March 9, Friday, March 10,  Sunday, March 12, Thursday, March 16, Saturday 18 and Sunday 19.  Booking 087 1383940. Please note I had the wrong booking number in last week.

CONCERT: A concert featuring the Carrigkerry Wren Group will be held in the Community Hall, Ardagh at 8pm on Friday, March 3.

DOLLY DAY:  The O’Connor family are continuing to fund raise for Kerry Hospice and Comfort for Chemo.  This time the late Jim’s sister Cora is organising a Dolly Day in honour of Dolly Parton when an attempt will be made to establish a Guinness World Record for the most people dressed as Dolly Parton.  Cora has form with making the Guinness Book of Records as she it was who organised Nunday in Listowel some years ago.  I will be on hand to make sure that all the extremities are covered!

ABBEYFEALE ICA:  The local branch has resumed meeting at the Adult Education Centre Mountmahon usually the first and third Tuesday of each month.  The next meeting will be on Tuesday March 7 at 7pm.   New members welcome.

LOURDES:   Youth Pilgrimage 2023 22nd – 27th June. For booking details contact Karen at 061-350000 or email at [email protected]

Limerick Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2023. Led by Bishop Brendan Leahy. 22th – 27th June. Direct return flights from Shannon to Lourdes. For booking contact Joe Walsh Tours,

Telephone 01-2410800 or email [email protected] €879 per person, full board, all taxes included.

GLÓRACH BINGO:  Every Monday at 8pm.  Over 18’s. All welcome.

FATIMA: Fully escorted pilgrimage ex Dublin airport, May 9th-15th’23, Spiritual Director Fr. Noel Spring, Contact Premier Travel 021-4277700, email [email protected] or Maureen Harty 066-7131328 .

ABBEYFEALE YOUTH CLUB:  Delighted to report that the 1^st. year youth club is up and running.  Organiser Noreen Flynn Culhane 087 2353306 would like to thank the parents who helped to get club back up and open.

COINS: Mary’s Meals – Coin Collection, we are appealing to you for your old coins that are in jam jars, vases and odd pots around the house. We are using these to translate into food to feed the children in Mary’s Meals School Feeding Programmes. Because Mary’s Meals can provide a meal for 11c, your generosity can make a massive difference. You don’t need to count it! If you are willing to donate Irish, sterling or foreign coins/notes, please contact Angela Moore at 089-4339592 or [email protected].

ST. ITAS DAY CARE: Open to visitors every Tuesday.  Morning Coffee and scones.  Lunch, card game, music and dancing.   Contact Jane on 068 51850. Meals on Wheels available Monday to Friday (except for Bank Holidays etc) Soup €1; Main Course €7,Dessert €2.The menu is put on the St Ita’s Day Care Abbeyfeale Facebook page on Friday for the following week. Call 068 51850 for enquiries and booking. Call before 10.30 am on the day.

HOT DESK:  Work Base E-Hub at Old Bank Building on Main Street is open for Business. For full details and pricing on Private Office Suites, Meeting Room, Hot-desks etc contact Ken Tobin on 086 816 2105.

REOPENING OF ABBEYFEALE MART:  A sale is held every Saturday so please support.   For further information  087 6903172/ 087 9480484.

BRIDGE CLUB:  Abbeyfeale Bridge Club meet at St. Ita’s Day Care Centre every Thursday from 7.30pm.  New members welcome.

ABBEYFEALE’S NIGHT AT THE OSKARS: The DVD’s and the USB sticks are on sale at the Day Care Centre, Toddy Mc Mahons, Batt’s in the Square and An Siopa Milsean .  The DVD’s will retail at €10 each and the USB sticks at €15.  Contact Jane at the Day Care Centre on 068 51850.

WHEN IRELAND’S CAUSE WAS SOLD FOR A BATTLE OF WHISKY.  Jer Kenneally sent me the following:  The Sacred Heart Review, Number 12, 13 March 1909 (Temperance.)

We are all more or less familiar with the part played by the unfortunate love of liquor in the Irish rebellion of 1798. The tale has often been told, (although no lasting lesson has been learned from it,) of advantages won by valour and lost by liquor in that struggle of Wexford’s peasantry against the disciplined might of England. But an earlier example of the unholy and traitorous part played by liquor in Irish history is, perhaps, not so well known. In view of the coming feast of St. Patrick, it may be well to recall it. In 1601 when a Spanish force, sent over to help Ireland win back her ancient independence, was occupying the town of Kinsale it was besieged by the English. But the English were in turn surrounded by an Irish army under O’Neil and O’Donnell, and thus were placed between two fires. It was decided that a general attack should be made on the English by the forces of O’Neil and O’Donnell on the one hand, and the Spaniards on the other. This attack might or might not have succeeded, according as the English, whom it was hoped to take by surprise, fought well or ill, but, anyway, there was treason in the ranks of the Irish, the English were apprised of the proposed attack , and the Irish and Spanish forces were disastrously defeated. This is how it came about: A certain Brian Mac Mahon whose son, it seems, had been, some years before, a page to Sir George Carew in England, ” for old time’s sake ” sent a message to Carew asking for a bottle of whisky. The whisky was sent, and so grateful was MacMahon for the gift that he informed Carew of the intended attack. “The list of Irish traitors is a long one,” says the Rev. E. A. D’Alton in his history of Ireland, “but our history records no more infamous transaction than this bartering of faith and country for a bottle of whisky.” The Irishmen who drink to excess on St. Patrick’s Day are guilty of a crime against their birth land and their religion which differs only in degree from that of Brian MacMahon. Drunkenness on St. Patrick’s Day is a species of treason to the old land and the old faith which every loyal Irishmen should reprobate and condemn.

HISTORY: The Civil War: Beyond the Archives Thursday, 9 March- Tim Horgan, historian & KAHS member at Tralee Library, 7:00 p.m.; Outing: Knocknagoshel & Ballyseedy Centenary Commemorations Sunday, 5 March Jimmy Deenihan & Owen O’Shea. Meet at the Sportsfield, Knocknagoshel at 2:30 p.m. and Outing: Countess Bridge Centenary Commemoration Saturday, 11 March Fr Tom & Dr Tim Horgan Meet at Spa GAA Grounds, Killarney at 2:30 p.m.   Mary Lou McDonald will deliver the address at the centenary commemoration of the Ballyseedy Massacre on Sunday March 5 at 12 noon at the monument in Tralee.

JOBS: Kerry Group are currently recruiting for General Operatives in Listowel.

It is a full-time, seasonal position. The shift will depend on a team you join, and it can be either 12 hours a day, 4 days on 4 days off or 8 hours a day, Monday to Friday. Overtime is available.

https://www.jobalert.ie/job/general-operative-group-5..

CHELTENHAM FUNDRAISING NIGHT:  Please support our fundraising Cheltenham night on Tuesday, March 7 @8.30 pm in Christy’s bar Listowel. A great night’s entertainment and useful information is guaranteed from the well-known panel. The money raised will help our Centre in Listowel to continue to support those with intellectual disabilities in the North Kerry area. The Centre provides individual training and employment programmes including various art and craft, horticultural and catering skills.

GROW MENTAL HEALTH MEETINGS will resume this Wednesday, March1 in the Seanchaí Centre, Listowel at 8:00 pm. No referrals or introductions required. Just drop in.

ACCORD ARE NOW RECRUITING Are you an excellent communicator with an enthusiasm for supporting couples as they prepare for the Sacrament of Marriage and future family life? Formal training will be provided in presenting and facilitating our Marriage Preparation Programmes. Please contact Aisling on 01 5053112 or email: [email protected]

NATIONAL TREE WEEK! Sunday 19th March to Sunday 26th March 2023.

https://www.treecouncil.ie/national-tree-week

ANOTHER MESSAGE FROM MAUREEN FINNEGAN:  Please keep all those old candles that are of no further use to you but can be used to melt down to make new candles for the people in Ukraine, you can leave any unwanted candles into the Community Centre,  NCW there is a box under the table in the entrance.  Also the lady who has the shop across the road from the church in NCW on the corner will be delighted to accept them.  Thank you.

SMART VILLAGES/STRONGER COMMUNITIES:  The North Kerry, West Limerick: Smart Villages, Stronger Communities project addresses the unique challenges facing Ireland’s rural regions. This project aims to unlock innovative new solutions for the sustainable growth and development of rural communities within the North Kerry – West

Limerick region. The final event is scheduled for Wednesday 1st March – 6.30pm to 8.30pm at The Listowel Arms Hotel, Listowel, County Kerry.  This event will present findings from the ‘North Kerry, West Limerick: Smart Villages, Stronger Communities’ project and will launch the regional and local plans developed as part of this process for Abbeyfeale, Athea, Glin, Ballyhahill, Loughill, Shanagolden, Carrigkerry, Ardagh, Templeglantine, Tournafulla and Mountcollins.  It will also highlight important ongoing initiatives and projects across the North Kerry and West Limerick region which present further potential

opportunities for the roll out of the smart villages project. Speakers will include Veronica O’ Connor (Failte Ireland); Paraic Rattigan (Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce); and Liam Cronin (RDI Hub). Register: Smart Villages – North Kerry and West Limerick (nkwlsmartvillages.ie)

SOCIAL DANCING IN THE ROCK:  Rockchapel community centre committee have started  adult dancing classes in the community centre every Thursday night from 8.30 -  10pm.  If you are interested in learning to jive, waltz or quick step or just want to come to enjoy a nights dancing please text or ring Breeda 087/6818113 or Philomena 087 6809249. . Come alone or bring a partner.€10 per person – pay as you go.

.CITIZENS ADVICE HELPLINE:  You can contact them Monday – Friday between 9.30 -4.15pm on 076 1075780 or email [email protected]

WALKING: Operation Transformation – Ireland Light’s Up. The weekly walks in Athea continue on Thursday evening at 7pm.

MESSAGE FROM MAUREEN FINNEGAN:  “We are collecting used stamps to help Servite Sisters look after 120 girls in St. Marys Home, Myanmar, formerly known as Burma.   The Sisters were providing food, shelter and education to the students up until the military coup 2020 when all schools were shut.   They live in a regime that is very controlling and dangerous, the prices for rice, oil and food have risen so the Sisters and their students are struggling as are all the poor in Myanmar.   The used stamps collected are given to a stamp collector who pays €5 per kilo, so the more stamps we can collect the more funds we receive and with your help we can do this. Our priests in Marley are Servite priests so that is the connection between Ireland and Burma.”  Maureen continues;
“Thank you to all those people who were collecting stamps pre Covid you can now either drop them into a box which is in the church porch side entrance near the Sacristy side of NCW church or give them to me, Maureen Finnegan 087 9845102.  Stamps cut from envelope with just one inch around it please – no envelopes.  Thank you.”

PILGRIMAGES:  Two pilgrimages to Medjugorjie travelling from Cork.
19th July 2023 with Aer Lingus. Full daily programme which includes a visit to all the apparition siteswhere Our Lady first appeared to the six children in June 1981.Our 4star hotel isconveniently located close the village centre and the St James Church. Coach transfer to  Medjugorjie on arrival. 7 nights 4* hotel accommodation. Half board:breakfast & dinner each day. Coach transfer from your hotel to airport for return flight. Check-in assistance at airports. 1 x 20kg check-in bag & 1 x small cabin bag. For further information and details please contact Jim Keogh 021 4885371you will be most welcome, but please note that our places are strictly limited, and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. September  6 – 13 Return flights from Cork to Dubrovnik, for details & bookings contact: Group Leader – Maura O’Keeffe Harcksen (Tralee),Tel: 066 7127143 or 087 1517696.

VOCATIONS SEMINAR: Vocations Seminar, Evangelisation & Vocations Conference, Diocesan Priesthood in a Synodal Church, 25th April 10am-4pm, Renehan Hall, Maynooth, Keynote Speaker Archbishop Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect of the Vatican, Dicastery for Evangelization, with a panel of expert speakers.   Further information & registration visit vocations.ie, spaces limited, free event.

PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK SHRINE: Monday, March 20.  €599.00 per person sharing.  Price includes return bus to Knock, 4 nights’ in Knock House Hotel with full board.  All entertainment and excursions included.  Day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre & National Museum. Single supplement €100.00.  Contact Patricia on 087 1890 236 or email [email protected]

FESTIVAL: THE Wander Wild Festival, at Killarney from March 24th-26th. Many events are free, See www.wanderwildfestival.com for more.

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NEW MABS OUTREACH CLINIC:  On the second of Friday of each month (excluding bank holidays) a MABS Outreach Clinic will be held in St. Ita’s Hall from 9Iam -12.30pm.  The contact number for appointments is 0818 072210 for the North Munster MABS Limerick Office.  Those wishing to make an appointment must make the call themselves due to GDPR.

CHURCH NEWS:  Abbeyfeale is part of the parish pastoral unit that consists of Athea, Templeglantine, Tournafulla and Mountcollins.  Contact numbers are as follows:
Fr Willie Russell Tel 087/2272825.  Fr Tony Mullins  Tel 087/2600414 Fr Denis Mullane Tel 087/2621911.  Fr Dan Lane   Retired Tel 087/2533030.  There is always a priest from one of the other pastoral areas on emergency call on Sundays and his name and number is published on the parish website and also on the weekly newsletter. Mass: Wednesday 10am and 7pm.
Friday 10am  Purgatorial  Kathleen Clarke nee Kelly Anniversary.  Saturday 6.30pm  Peg O Connell New Street.  Sean Broderick Months Mind.  Vera Broderick  10th Anniversary.  Padraig O’Cleirigh, Killarney Road.  Sunday 12noon John Lane New Street. Ted Mulcahy, Dromtrasna 21st Anniversary.  Margaret Quirke, Killarney Road 1st Anniversary..
Monday 7pm Betty & J ames Reidy, The Hill.
Trócaire 2023:  This year, the focus of the Trócaire Lenten campaign is on Somalia in East Africa and highlights how climate change, drought and conflict are severely affecting families and communities there. An unprecedented humanitarian crisis is unfolding, and almost 8.3million people are facing unbearable hunger. Trócaire has been working with our partners in Somalia for 30 years and so is in a unique position to offer support to those affected.  Trócaire Boxes are available at the entrance to the church.  We encourage you to take one home and to bring one to a neighbour.  Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament:. Over
the years there has been a great tradition and spiritual practice in Abbeyfeale parish of
parishioners giving an hour of their time during Lent in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
We are inviting people to take up the challenge of giving 1 hour a week of their
time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. The Adoration will take place in the Blessed
Sacrament Church on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday each week during Lent beginning
after the 10.00am Mass and continuing until 8.00pm. In the Gospel of St. Matthew, Jesus asks his disciples to sit with him while he prays, but they fall asleep. He asks them “Can you not sit with me one hour?” This is where the concept of a “holy hour” comes from. Jesus asks us if we can sit one hour with him. During that hour, you can sit with Jesus in the Blessed
Sacrament praying, meditating, sitting in silence, reading, etc. If you would like to take on this challenge for Lent, and you are interested in spending some time in prayer in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, you are encouraged to select a time on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, a time that is practical for you. Write your name on the timetable.
Make a promise to the Lord that you will do your best to be faithful to your hour of prayer.
There will reflections on the Stations of the Cross every Friday morning at 9.30am before 10am Mass. Garment of Pain:  During this Lenten season, the parish invites all parishioners to leave your pain and suffering at the Cross. The Garment of Pain is a simple way of drawing together experiences of pain and suffering of many people, in a way that enables us to support one another in prayer .Over the period of Lent, we invite you to place a piece of material—roughly 6×6—in the baskets provided in the church. The cloth represents whatever your particular pain in life happens to be. During Lent, we will remember the intentions of those who have placed theirs in the baskets in our Masses. The pieces of cloth will be sown together to form one big patchwork quilt. During the Mass of the Last Supper on Holy Thursday, we will place the cloth on the altar to symbolically unite our suffering with the offering of Christ in the Mass.  On Good Friday the cloth will be draped over the cross which is the focus of our prayer that day.  During our Easter Vigil, we will place the Garment of Pain with the Paschal fire to symbolise that the light of Christ is always greater than our suffering and pain.

FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS FROM GALILEE TO JERUSALEM
Take the TRIP of a LIFETIME to the HOLY LAND, 29th August-8th Sept. 2023.
Group Leader, Mícheál de Barra and Spiritual Director, Fr. John Newman
(Scripture Scholar). In association with Premier Travel, Cork
Contact Mícheál at 086-8337681 or email [email protected]

45 CARD DRIVE:  The 45 Card Drive continues in Raheenagh Hall every Tuesday at 8.30pm.  All welcome.  The Spike Players will perform their two one act plays Looking for Love and Wedding Night Blues in Raheenagh Hall on Saturday March 4.

KERRY FLEADH in Ballybunion: Saturday and Sunday 10th and 11th June 2023, and Saturday and Sunday 17th and 18th June. Comhairle na Mumhan CCÉ has announced that Fleadh Cheoil na Mumhan 2023 will take place in Tralee from July 10th to July 16^th. Sult na nÓg 4th & 5th March 2023. https://comhaltas.ie/locations/detail/kerry/

SET DANCING:  Set dance classes every Tuesday and Thursday at 8.30pm  in Monagae Community Centre.  Everyone is welcome including beginners and those that have not danced in ages. Come along and have a fun night of dance, exercise and friendship. For more information call 0863510774.

.RAMBLING HOUSES: Every 1st Thursday of each month there is a Rambling House in the Community Centre in Knockanure..  All musicians, singers’ dancers and storytellers are most welcome to attend.   Knockalougha on the 3^rd. Tuesday of the month..  Ita McQuinn’s Rambling House is on the third Friday of the month at the Desmond Complex, Newcastle West at 8pm.  Listowel Rambling House takes place on the last Thursday of every month from 9.15 pm in the Seanachai Centre.   Killarney Rambling House on Friday, March 3 @8pm at the Old Killarney Inn, Aghadoe V93 NW52 – Entry €5 – All Welcome.

SET DANCING: With Timmy Woulfe Monday nights at 8pm in the Marian Hall, Moyvane, There are also Set Dancing Classes at Fr. Casey’s Club house Wednesday nights.

LEARN TO DANCE:  Social dancing classes in the Plaza Hall, Listowel every Monday night for beginners 7.30 – 9pm.  Waltzing  Jiving, Quick Step, Foxtrot.  Everyone welcome.

PRAYER MEETING:  Janice Carrig holds a prayer meeting in the Desmond Complex on the last Sunday of the month.

GREENWAY: Limerick Council will start work on a new Greenway car park at Station Road, Newcastle West in early 2023. Design teams have been appointed to design Greenway Hubs at the Ardagh Stationhouse and the Abbeyfeale Railway Goods Shed.
TAYTO PARK REOPENS:  The Irish Theme park, formerly known as Tayto Park is to reopen on Saturday, March 25 with a new name – Emerald Park.

LISTOWEL BINGO:  Bingo is back Sunday night in the Plaza, Church St, at 8.30pm. Welcome back to all old and new players.

COMMUNITY ALERT:  Reducing your energy use; Bleed your radiators, it makes an amazing difference in the amount of heat that they radiate.  There is snow forecast for the middle of next week so get in a supply of fuel and not have to go out on slippery roads when and if it comes. FAST is the checklist for a stroke.  Face – Check to see if one side of the face droops , Arms – Raise both arms, see if one drops down. Speech- check for slurring.  Time – if the answer to these is yes call 112/999 immediately. Five ways to Wellbeing:  Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning.  Give.  www. mentalhealth Ireland.ie    If you have medical equipment that requires electricity, ensure that your electrical supplier is aware and that you are on the ‘Special Services Register’ so that they can prioritize your house.   Layers are the best choice for staying warm in cold weather. Not only do the winter clothes themselves act as insulation, but the air between the layers insulates, too. If you have to drive in the frost leave plenty of time to reach your destination and to defrost the windscreen.  I was at a meeting recently where the Garda made a presentation and they emphasised that road accidents caused by speed, drink and drugs are a problem as well as on line scams and romance frauds.
Leave a low energy light on at night time, preferably one with a high light output..Use a non-slip shower or bath mat.  Make sure wires or cords, such as from lamps or telephones, do not trail where you walk. Arrange furniture so that you can easily move around all your rooms.  Keep the floors clear from items such as papers and books that could cause you to trip, Remove rugs or use non-slip tape or backing so rugs will not slip. Consider installing hand rails on both sides of the stairs.  Ask your relatives and neighbours for help if you need it. Keep their phone numbers on a list beside your phone.  Learn your Eircode – if you have to call for help it will take the services straight to your door.  Write ICE before your next of kin’s number in your phone so if you cannot communicate the services will be able to contact your next of kin.  If you suffer from a gambling addiction there is a counsellor/psychotherapist available at the Listowel Family Resource Centre.  Further information from 068 23584. If you are 65, you 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 or if you spend long periods of the day on your own 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.  There may be some confusion over the word free -  the equipment which costs in the region of €400 is provided free of charge by Pobal as is the first year of monitoring but after that you will be charged by the installing company for the monitoring.  I have not included the phone numbers of the committee in this notice but if you want to get a panic button then ring Abbeyfeale Garda Station on 068 30010 and they will contact one of us. 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 with a deposit of 6 months payable on the day of installation.  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. If you wish, you can arrange a direct debit and pay this amount off monthly.    Committee members are Michael O’Kelly N.T., Chairman Seamus Stack, Secretary Mossie Gleeson, Assistant Treasurer Kathleen Collins, Assistant Secretary Mary McArthur, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Catherine Daly, Maurice O’Connell, Assistant Treasurer Marian Harnett.

HELPLINES:    HSE Mental Health Information Line 1800111888.  Senior Line Friendly Listening Service 1800 804591.  If you are feeling vulnerable  contact Pieta House 061 484444/ Samaritans 116123/061 412111.  Bodywhys Eating Disorders Associations of Ireland www.bodywhys.ie Email [email protected] Monday to Friday 10am – 1pm. 01 2107906.  Jigsaw support line is now up and running on freefone 1800 JIGSAW (544 729). It will provide free mental health support and advice to young people aged 12 to 25 years old, and parents or concerned adults who live in the Republic of Ireland.  Text 50808 to receive support from a volunteer.  Depression & Bipolar Disorder Support www.aware.ie Tel: Freephone 1800 80 4848 (available 7 days, 10am-10pm). Email: [email protected] A helpline for Men suffering domestic abuse operates 36 hours a week on 1800816588.    Men’s Aid (Amen) 01 5543811 Monday – Friday 9-5pm.   24 hour helplines for women suffering domestic abuse 1800 341900 or Adapt 1800 200504.  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] National Suicide Helpline (Pieta House) 1800 247 247or text HELP to 51444.   Irish Advocacy Network (Peer advocacy in mental health) 01 872 8684.  Mental Health Ireland – Helpline  01 2841166.  Alzheimers Society, Information and Emotional Help – 1800341341.AMEN( male victims of domestic violence)  0469023718.   Pieta House (Suicide & self-harm) 01 623 5606 IACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy) 01 230 3536 Shine: (Supporting people affected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222. ACCORD; are now offering over the phone counselling for couples, Individuals & family members. Call: 01 5313331.   Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560.  Counselling Appointment    061/314213. . Milford Care Centre, Castletroy, Limerick. Tel: 061 485 800  Email: [email protected] Children’s Grief Centre, Limerick. Tel: 061 224 627  Email info@childrensgriefcentre. TeenTxt-Text: TEEN to 50101.

DO YOU HAVE NEWS:  If there is something you’d like covered in the Abbeyfeale notes please contact me on 087 6866450 or email me on [email protected]

PROLOGUE:  Don’t cry over the past, it’s gone.  Don’t stress over the future, it hasn’t arrived.  Live in the present and make the best of it.

FIRST CRAFT FAIR IN ABBEYFEALE:  Saturday, March 4 from 10-2pm in the Square. Everyone welcome to browse the large number of stalls expected.

WEST LIMERICK SINGING CLUB:  First Friday of the month in the Ramble Inn March 3.  Everyone Welcome.

DRAMA WORKSHOP IN ABBEYFEALE: John Nelligan  sent the following; “ Anyone  can  Whistle!  If that’s true, and it is; then that principle will, also, hold good for the assertion that “Anyone can Act”. As we, all, know the journey of a thousand miles starts with that very first, faltering, step. Equally, the path to a career in Hollywood starts with attendance at the Drama League of Ireland workshop on acting skills at Glórach on March 25^th.   Famous actors, from our Tri-County area of Cork, Kerry and Limerick, who benefitted, greatly, from attending acting workshops are, Cillian Murphy, Michael Fassbender, Richard Harris, Fiona Shaw and Lorcan Curtin.  Somebody once said that: “Life is an act and we are all actors in the arena of life.”  Therefore, a helping hand in navigating the currents of modern life is always welcome.  So, don’t delay in booking one of the, just, twenty places available, by e-mailing [email protected] or phoning  01 296 9343.  Attendance costs €20, with the workshop opening at 10am and closing at 5pm.”

TOURIST OFFICE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Work has started on bringing a Tourist Office to Abbeyfeale and you can help make it happen! Are you a proud Abbeyfeale person? Do you have 2 hours or more per week to welcome visitors to our beautiful town and give them some information that will help them enjoy their visit? We have hours to suit your lifestyle. The new Tourist Office will be in the WorkBase E-Hub building on Abbeyfeale’s main street. Full training will be provided Contact [email protected] if you are interested.

DOG WARDEN: It may be the excitement of the sight of the straight road stretching from the Search and Rescue headquarters all the way up to the Town park and the promise of a walk there but the pavement from there on is covered in dog poop and my local correspondent tells me that the plan is to patrol the road for the next few weeks in order to find the owners who are not equipped with plastic bags.  There is a substantial fine following the offence of not cleaning up after your pooch.

LOOKING FOR LOVE AND WEDDING NIGHT BLUES:  The Spike Players, Knocknagoshel present two one act plays in Ratheenagh Community Centre for one night only Saturday, March 4.  Doors open 7.15pm. Admission €10.  Raffle.

INVITATION FROM OUR NEIGHBOURING PARISH:  Tournafulla GAA club are now taking names for boys – beginners to U1- that are interested in beginning to learn hurling with Tournafulla .  Make new friends, have great fun, stay healthy, learn basic movements along with the basic skills of Hurling.  Our Training will commence from March/ April – date TBC on Wednesday/Fridays at our pitch facilities at Tournafulla GAA Club.  Beginners are those aged 5-7 (or those having started school since September 2022). Any older kids that are living in the parishes Tournafulla ,  Mountcollins, and Abbeyfeale are also more than welcome .to join us and see if GAA may interest them. All are very welcome and we look forward to shortly seeing our new GAA Beginners for 2023.Club Contacts: Dan Horgan 087 6410894  or Seamus o Sullivan 086 8263454- once contact has been made (Txt Msg/Call) you will be added to the relevant Whats App for 2023 training sessions. If you have any queries please feel free to contact Dan/Seamus.

“TEARING AND DRAGGING”:  Abbeyside Players present a comedy by John Hank Regan at the Glorach Theatre on Thursday, March 9, Friday, March 10,  Sunday, March 12, Thursday, March 16, Saturday 18 and Sunday 19.  Booking 087 1383940. Please note I had the wrong booking number in last week.

CONCERT: A concert featuring the Carrigkerry Wren Group will be held in the Community Hall, Ardagh at 8pm on Friday, March 3.

DOLLY DAY:  The O’Connor family are continuing to fund raise for Kerry Hospice and Comfort for Chemo.  This time the late Jim’s sister Cora is organising a Dolly Day in honour of Dolly Parton when an attempt will be made to establish a Guinness World Record for the most people dressed as Dolly Parton.  Cora has form with making the Guinness Book of Records as she it was who organised Nunday in Listowel some years ago.  I will be on hand to make sure that all the extremities are covered!

ABBEYFEALE ICA:  The local branch has resumed meeting at the Adult Education Centre Mountmahon usually the first and third Tuesday of each month.  The next meeting will be on Tuesday March 7 at 7pm.   New members welcome.

LOURDES:   Youth Pilgrimage 2023 22nd – 27th June. For booking details contact Karen at 061-350000 or email at [email protected]

Limerick Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2023. Led by Bishop Brendan Leahy. 22th – 27th June. Direct return flights from Shannon to Lourdes. For booking contact Joe Walsh Tours,

Telephone 01-2410800 or email [email protected] €879 per person, full board, all taxes included.

GLÓRACH BINGO:  Every Monday at 8pm.  Over 18’s. All welcome.

FATIMA: Fully escorted pilgrimage ex Dublin airport, May 9th-15th’23, Spiritual Director Fr. Noel Spring, Contact Premier Travel 021-4277700, email [email protected] or Maureen Harty 066-7131328 .

ABBEYFEALE YOUTH CLUB:  Delighted to report that the 1^st. year youth club is up and running.  Organiser Noreen Flynn Culhane 087 2353306 would like to thank the parents who helped to get club back up and open.

COINS: Mary’s Meals – Coin Collection, we are appealing to you for your old coins that are in jam jars, vases and odd pots around the house. We are using these to translate into food to feed the children in Mary’s Meals School Feeding Programmes. Because Mary’s Meals can provide a meal for 11c, your generosity can make a massive difference. You don’t need to count it! If you are willing to donate Irish, sterling or foreign coins/notes, please contact Angela Moore at 089-4339592 or [email protected].

ST. ITAS DAY CARE: Open to visitors every Tuesday.  Morning Coffee and scones.  Lunch, card game, music and dancing.   Contact Jane on 068 51850. Meals on Wheels available Monday to Friday (except for Bank Holidays etc) Soup €1; Main Course €7,Dessert €2.The menu is put on the St Ita’s Day Care Abbeyfeale Facebook page on Friday for the following week. Call 068 51850 for enquiries and booking. Call before 10.30 am on the day.

HOT DESK:  Work Base E-Hub at Old Bank Building on Main Street is open for Business. For full details and pricing on Private Office Suites, Meeting Room, Hot-desks etc contact Ken Tobin on 086 816 2105.

REOPENING OF ABBEYFEALE MART:  A sale is held every Saturday so please support.   For further information  087 6903172/ 087 9480484.

BRIDGE CLUB:  Abbeyfeale Bridge Club meet at St. Ita’s Day Care Centre every Thursday from 7.30pm.  New members welcome.

ABBEYFEALE’S NIGHT AT THE OSKARS: The DVD’s and the USB sticks are on sale at the Day Care Centre, Toddy Mc Mahons, Batt’s in the Square and An Siopa Milsean .  The DVD’s will retail at €10 each and the USB sticks at €15.  Contact Jane at the Day Care Centre on 068 51850.

WHEN IRELAND’S CAUSE WAS SOLD FOR A BATTLE OF WHISKY.  Jer Kenneally sent me the following:  The Sacred Heart Review, Number 12, 13 March 1909 (Temperance.)

We are all more or less familiar with the part played by the unfortunate love of liquor in the Irish rebellion of 1798. The tale has often been told, (although no lasting lesson has been learned from it,) of advantages won by valour and lost by liquor in that struggle of Wexford’s peasantry against the disciplined might of England. But an earlier example of the unholy and traitorous part played by liquor in Irish history is, perhaps, not so well known. In view of the coming feast of St. Patrick, it may be well to recall it. In 1601 when a Spanish force, sent over to help Ireland win back her ancient independence, was occupying the town of Kinsale it was besieged by the English. But the English were in turn surrounded by an Irish army under O’Neil and O’Donnell, and thus were placed between two fires. It was decided that a general attack should be made on the English by the forces of O’Neil and O’Donnell on the one hand, and the Spaniards on the other. This attack might or might not have succeeded, according as the English, whom it was hoped to take by surprise, fought well or ill, but, anyway, there was treason in the ranks of the Irish, the English were apprised of the proposed attack , and the Irish and Spanish forces were disastrously defeated. This is how it came about: A certain Brian Mac Mahon whose son, it seems, had been, some years before, a page to Sir George Carew in England, ” for old time’s sake ” sent a message to Carew asking for a bottle of whisky. The whisky was sent, and so grateful was MacMahon for the gift that he informed Carew of the intended attack. “The list of Irish traitors is a long one,” says the Rev. E. A. D’Alton in his history of Ireland, “but our history records no more infamous transaction than this bartering of faith and country for a bottle of whisky.” The Irishmen who drink to excess on St. Patrick’s Day are guilty of a crime against their birth land and their religion which differs only in degree from that of Brian MacMahon. Drunkenness on St. Patrick’s Day is a species of treason to the old land and the old faith which every loyal Irishmen should reprobate and condemn.

HISTORY: The Civil War: Beyond the Archives Thursday, 9 March- Tim Horgan, historian & KAHS member at Tralee Library, 7:00 p.m.; Outing: Knocknagoshel & Ballyseedy Centenary Commemorations Sunday, 5 March Jimmy Deenihan & Owen O’Shea. Meet at the Sportsfield, Knocknagoshel at 2:30 p.m. and Outing: Countess Bridge Centenary Commemoration Saturday, 11 March Fr Tom & Dr Tim Horgan Meet at Spa GAA Grounds, Killarney at 2:30 p.m.   Mary Lou McDonald will deliver the address at the centenary commemoration of the Ballyseedy Massacre on Sunday March 5 at 12 noon at the monument in Tralee.

JOBS: Kerry Group are currently recruiting for General Operatives in Listowel.

It is a full-time, seasonal position. The shift will depend on a team you join, and it can be either 12 hours a day, 4 days on 4 days off or 8 hours a day, Monday to Friday. Overtime is available.

https://www.jobalert.ie/job/general-operative-group-5..

CHELTENHAM FUNDRAISING NIGHT:  Please support our fundraising Cheltenham night on Tuesday, March 7 @8.30 pm in Christy’s bar Listowel. A great night’s entertainment and useful information is guaranteed from the well-known panel. The money raised will help our Centre in Listowel to continue to support those with intellectual disabilities in the North Kerry area. The Centre provides individual training and employment programmes including various art and craft, horticultural and catering skills.

GROW MENTAL HEALTH MEETINGS will resume this Wednesday, March1 in the Seanchaí Centre, Listowel at 8:00 pm. No referrals or introductions required. Just drop in.

ACCORD ARE NOW RECRUITING Are you an excellent communicator with an enthusiasm for supporting couples as they prepare for the Sacrament of Marriage and future family life? Formal training will be provided in presenting and facilitating our Marriage Preparation Programmes. Please contact Aisling on 01 5053112 or email: [email protected]

NATIONAL TREE WEEK! Sunday 19th March to Sunday 26th March 2023.

https://www.treecouncil.ie/national-tree-week

ANOTHER MESSAGE FROM MAUREEN FINNEGAN:  Please keep all those old candles that are of no further use to you but can be used to melt down to make new candles for the people in Ukraine, you can leave any unwanted candles into the Community Centre,  NCW there is a box under the table in the entrance.  Also the lady who has the shop across the road from the church in NCW on the corner will be delighted to accept them.  Thank you.

SMART VILLAGES/STRONGER COMMUNITIES:  The North Kerry, West Limerick: Smart Villages, Stronger Communities project addresses the unique challenges facing Ireland’s rural regions. This project aims to unlock innovative new solutions for the sustainable growth and development of rural communities within the North Kerry – West

Limerick region. The final event is scheduled for Wednesday 1st March – 6.30pm to 8.30pm at The Listowel Arms Hotel, Listowel, County Kerry.  This event will present findings from the ‘North Kerry, West Limerick: Smart Villages, Stronger Communities’ project and will launch the regional and local plans developed as part of this process for Abbeyfeale, Athea, Glin, Ballyhahill, Loughill, Shanagolden, Carrigkerry, Ardagh, Templeglantine, Tournafulla and Mountcollins.  It will also highlight important ongoing initiatives and projects across the North Kerry and West Limerick region which present further potential

opportunities for the roll out of the smart villages project. Speakers will include Veronica O’ Connor (Failte Ireland); Paraic Rattigan (Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce); and Liam Cronin (RDI Hub). Register: Smart Villages – North Kerry and West Limerick (nkwlsmartvillages.ie)

SOCIAL DANCING IN THE ROCK:  Rockchapel community centre committee have started  adult dancing classes in the community centre every Thursday night from 8.30 -  10pm.  If you are interested in learning to jive, waltz or quick step or just want to come to enjoy a nights dancing please text or ring Breeda 087/6818113 or Philomena 087 6809249. . Come alone or bring a partner.€10 per person – pay as you go.

.CITIZENS ADVICE HELPLINE:  You can contact them Monday – Friday between 9.30 -4.15pm on 076 1075780 or email [email protected]

WALKING: Operation Transformation – Ireland Light’s Up. The weekly walks in Athea continue on Thursday evening at 7pm.

MESSAGE FROM MAUREEN FINNEGAN:  “We are collecting used stamps to help Servite Sisters look after 120 girls in St. Marys Home, Myanmar, formerly known as Burma.   The Sisters were providing food, shelter and education to the students up until the military coup 2020 when all schools were shut.   They live in a regime that is very controlling and dangerous, the prices for rice, oil and food have risen so the Sisters and their students are struggling as are all the poor in Myanmar.   The used stamps collected are given to a stamp collector who pays €5 per kilo, so the more stamps we can collect the more funds we receive and with your help we can do this. Our priests in Marley are Servite priests so that is the connection between Ireland and Burma.”  Maureen continues;
“Thank you to all those people who were collecting stamps pre Covid you can now either drop them into a box which is in the church porch side entrance near the Sacristy side of NCW church or give them to me, Maureen Finnegan 087 9845102.  Stamps cut from envelope with just one inch around it please – no envelopes.  Thank you.”

PILGRIMAGES:  Two pilgrimages to Medjugorjie travelling from Cork.
19th July 2023 with Aer Lingus. Full daily programme which includes a visit to all the apparition siteswhere Our Lady first appeared to the six children in June 1981.Our 4star hotel isconveniently located close the village centre and the St James Church. Coach transfer to  Medjugorjie on arrival. 7 nights 4* hotel accommodation. Half board:breakfast & dinner each day. Coach transfer from your hotel to airport for return flight. Check-in assistance at airports. 1 x 20kg check-in bag & 1 x small cabin bag. For further information and details please contact Jim Keogh 021 4885371you will be most welcome, but please note that our places are strictly limited, and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. September  6 – 13 Return flights from Cork to Dubrovnik, for details & bookings contact: Group Leader – Maura O’Keeffe Harcksen (Tralee),Tel: 066 7127143 or 087 1517696.

VOCATIONS SEMINAR: Vocations Seminar, Evangelisation & Vocations Conference, Diocesan Priesthood in a Synodal Church, 25th April 10am-4pm, Renehan Hall, Maynooth, Keynote Speaker Archbishop Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect of the Vatican, Dicastery for Evangelization, with a panel of expert speakers.   Further information & registration visit vocations.ie, spaces limited, free event.

PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK SHRINE: Monday, March 20.  €599.00 per person sharing.  Price includes return bus to Knock, 4 nights’ in Knock House Hotel with full board.  All entertainment and excursions included.  Day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre & National Museum. Single supplement €100.00.  Contact Patricia on 087 1890 236 or email [email protected]

FESTIVAL: THE Wander Wild Festival, at Killarney from March 24th-26th. Many events are free, See www.wanderwildfestival.com for more.

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NEW MABS OUTREACH CLINIC:  On the second of Friday of each month (excluding bank holidays) a MABS Outreach Clinic will be held in St. Ita’s Hall from 9Iam -12.30pm.  The contact number for appointments is 0818 072210 for the North Munster MABS Limerick Office.  Those wishing to make an appointment must make the call themselves due to GDPR.

CHURCH NEWS:  Abbeyfeale is part of the parish pastoral unit that consists of Athea, Templeglantine, Tournafulla and Mountcollins.  Contact numbers are as follows:
Fr Willie Russell Tel 087/2272825.  Fr Tony Mullins  Tel 087/2600414 Fr Denis Mullane Tel 087/2621911.  Fr Dan Lane   Retired Tel 087/2533030.  There is always a priest from one of the other pastoral areas on emergency call on Sundays and his name and number is published on the parish website and also on the weekly newsletter. Mass: Wednesday 10am and 7pm.
Friday 10am  Purgatorial  Kathleen Clarke nee Kelly Anniversary.  Saturday 6.30pm  Peg O Connell New Street.  Sean Broderick Months Mind.  Vera Broderick  10th Anniversary.  Padraig O’Cleirigh, Killarney Road.  Sunday 12noon John Lane New Street. Ted Mulcahy, Dromtrasna 21st Anniversary.  Margaret Quirke, Killarney Road 1st Anniversary..
Monday 7pm Betty & J ames Reidy, The Hill.
Trócaire 2023:  This year, the focus of the Trócaire Lenten campaign is on Somalia in East Africa and highlights how climate change, drought and conflict are severely affecting families and communities there. An unprecedented humanitarian crisis is unfolding, and almost 8.3million people are facing unbearable hunger. Trócaire has been working with our partners in Somalia for 30 years and so is in a unique position to offer support to those affected.  Trócaire Boxes are available at the entrance to the church.  We encourage you to take one home and to bring one to a neighbour.  Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament:. Over
the years there has been a great tradition and spiritual practice in Abbeyfeale parish of
parishioners giving an hour of their time during Lent in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
We are inviting people to take up the challenge of giving 1 hour a week of their
time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. The Adoration will take place in the Blessed
Sacrament Church on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday each week during Lent beginning
after the 10.00am Mass and continuing until 8.00pm. In the Gospel of St. Matthew, Jesus asks his disciples to sit with him while he prays, but they fall asleep. He asks them “Can you not sit with me one hour?” This is where the concept of a “holy hour” comes from. Jesus asks us if we can sit one hour with him. During that hour, you can sit with Jesus in the Blessed
Sacrament praying, meditating, sitting in silence, reading, etc. If you would like to take on this challenge for Lent, and you are interested in spending some time in prayer in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, you are encouraged to select a time on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, a time that is practical for you. Write your name on the timetable.
Make a promise to the Lord that you will do your best to be faithful to your hour of prayer.
There will reflections on the Stations of the Cross every Friday morning at 9.30am before 10am Mass. Garment of Pain:  During this Lenten season, the parish invites all parishioners to leave your pain and suffering at the Cross. The Garment of Pain is a simple way of drawing together experiences of pain and suffering of many people, in a way that enables us to support one another in prayer .Over the period of Lent, we invite you to place a piece of material—roughly 6×6—in the baskets provided in the church. The cloth represents whatever your particular pain in life happens to be. During Lent, we will remember the intentions of those who have placed theirs in the baskets in our Masses. The pieces of cloth will be sown together to form one big patchwork quilt. During the Mass of the Last Supper on Holy Thursday, we will place the cloth on the altar to symbolically unite our suffering with the offering of Christ in the Mass.  On Good Friday the cloth will be draped over the cross which is the focus of our prayer that day.  During our Easter Vigil, we will place the Garment of Pain with the Paschal fire to symbolise that the light of Christ is always greater than our suffering and pain.

FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS FROM GALILEE TO JERUSALEM
Take the TRIP of a LIFETIME to the HOLY LAND, 29th August-8th Sept. 2023.
Group Leader, Mícheál de Barra and Spiritual Director, Fr. John Newman
(Scripture Scholar). In association with Premier Travel, Cork
Contact Mícheál at 086-8337681 or email [email protected]

45 CARD DRIVE:  The 45 Card Drive continues in Raheenagh Hall every Tuesday at 8.30pm.  All welcome.  The Spike Players will perform their two one act plays Looking for Love and Wedding Night Blues in Raheenagh Hall on Saturday March 4.

KERRY FLEADH in Ballybunion: Saturday and Sunday 10th and 11th June 2023, and Saturday and Sunday 17th and 18th June. Comhairle na Mumhan CCÉ has announced that Fleadh Cheoil na Mumhan 2023 will take place in Tralee from July 10th to July 16^th. Sult na nÓg 4th & 5th March 2023. https://comhaltas.ie/locations/detail/kerry/

SET DANCING:  Set dance classes every Tuesday and Thursday at 8.30pm  in Monagae Community Centre.  Everyone is welcome including beginners and those that have not danced in ages. Come along and have a fun night of dance, exercise and friendship. For more information call 0863510774.

.RAMBLING HOUSES: Every 1st Thursday of each month there is a Rambling House in the Community Centre in Knockanure..  All musicians, singers’ dancers and storytellers are most welcome to attend.   Knockalougha on the 3^rd. Tuesday of the month..  Ita McQuinn’s Rambling House is on the third Friday of the month at the Desmond Complex, Newcastle West at 8pm.  Listowel Rambling House takes place on the last Thursday of every month from 9.15 pm in the Seanachai Centre.   Killarney Rambling House on Friday, March 3 @8pm at the Old Killarney Inn, Aghadoe V93 NW52 – Entry €5 – All Welcome.

SET DANCING: With Timmy Woulfe Monday nights at 8pm in the Marian Hall, Moyvane, There are also Set Dancing Classes at Fr. Casey’s Club house Wednesday nights.

LEARN TO DANCE:  Social dancing classes in the Plaza Hall, Listowel every Monday night for beginners 7.30 – 9pm.  Waltzing  Jiving, Quick Step, Foxtrot.  Everyone welcome.

PRAYER MEETING:  Janice Carrig holds a prayer meeting in the Desmond Complex on the last Sunday of the month.

GREENWAY: Limerick Council will start work on a new Greenway car park at Station Road, Newcastle West in early 2023. Design teams have been appointed to design Greenway Hubs at the Ardagh Stationhouse and the Abbeyfeale Railway Goods Shed.
TAYTO PARK REOPENS:  The Irish Theme park, formerly known as Tayto Park is to reopen on Saturday, March 25 with a new name – Emerald Park.

LISTOWEL BINGO:  Bingo is back Sunday night in the Plaza, Church St, at 8.30pm. Welcome back to all old and new players.

COMMUNITY ALERT:  Reducing your energy use; Bleed your radiators, it makes an amazing difference in the amount of heat that they radiate.  There is snow forecast for the middle of next week so get in a supply of fuel and not have to go out on slippery roads when and if it comes. FAST is the checklist for a stroke.  Face – Check to see if one side of the face droops , Arms – Raise both arms, see if one drops down. Speech- check for slurring.  Time – if the answer to these is yes call 112/999 immediately. Five ways to Wellbeing:  Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning.  Give.  www. mentalhealth Ireland.ie    If you have medical equipment that requires electricity, ensure that your electrical supplier is aware and that you are on the ‘Special Services Register’ so that they can prioritize your house.   Layers are the best choice for staying warm in cold weather. Not only do the winter clothes themselves act as insulation, but the air between the layers insulates, too. If you have to drive in the frost leave plenty of time to reach your destination and to defrost the windscreen.  I was at a meeting recently where the Garda made a presentation and they emphasised that road accidents caused by speed, drink and drugs are a problem as well as on line scams and romance frauds.
Leave a low energy light on at night time, preferably one with a high light output..Use a non-slip shower or bath mat.  Make sure wires or cords, such as from lamps or telephones, do not trail where you walk. Arrange furniture so that you can easily move around all your rooms.  Keep the floors clear from items such as papers and books that could cause you to trip, Remove rugs or use non-slip tape or backing so rugs will not slip. Consider installing hand rails on both sides of the stairs.  Ask your relatives and neighbours for help if you need it. Keep their phone numbers on a list beside your phone.  Learn your Eircode – if you have to call for help it will take the services straight to your door.  Write ICE before your next of kin’s number in your phone so if you cannot communicate the services will be able to contact your next of kin.  If you suffer from a gambling addiction there is a counsellor/psychotherapist available at the Listowel Family Resource Centre.  Further information from 068 23584. If you are 65, you 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 or if you spend long periods of the day on your own 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.  There may be some confusion over the word free -  the equipment which costs in the region of €400 is provided free of charge by Pobal as is the first year of monitoring but after that you will be charged by the installing company for the monitoring.  I have not included the phone numbers of the committee in this notice but if you want to get a panic button then ring Abbeyfeale Garda Station on 068 30010 and they will contact one of us. 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 with a deposit of 6 months payable on the day of installation.  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. If you wish, you can arrange a direct debit and pay this amount off monthly.    Committee members are Michael O’Kelly N.T., Chairman Seamus Stack, Secretary Mossie Gleeson, Assistant Treasurer Kathleen Collins, Assistant Secretary Mary McArthur, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Catherine Daly, Maurice O’Connell, Assistant Treasurer Marian Harnett.

HELPLINES:    HSE Mental Health Information Line 1800111888.  Senior Line Friendly Listening Service 1800 804591.  If you are feeling vulnerable  contact Pieta House 061 484444/ Samaritans 116123/061 412111.  Bodywhys Eating Disorders Associations of Ireland www.bodywhys.ie Email [email protected] Monday to Friday 10am – 1pm. 01 2107906.  Jigsaw support line is now up and running on freefone 1800 JIGSAW (544 729). It will provide free mental health support and advice to young people aged 12 to 25 years old, and parents or concerned adults who live in the Republic of Ireland.  Text 50808 to receive support from a volunteer.  Depression & Bipolar Disorder Support www.aware.ie Tel: Freephone 1800 80 4848 (available 7 days, 10am-10pm). Email: [email protected] A helpline for Men suffering domestic abuse operates 36 hours a week on 1800816588.    Men’s Aid (Amen) 01 5543811 Monday – Friday 9-5pm.   24 hour helplines for women suffering domestic abuse 1800 341900 or Adapt 1800 200504.  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] National Suicide Helpline (Pieta House) 1800 247 247or text HELP to 51444.   Irish Advocacy Network (Peer advocacy in mental health) 01 872 8684.  Mental Health Ireland – Helpline  01 2841166.  Alzheimers Society, Information and Emotional Help – 1800341341.AMEN( male victims of domestic violence)  0469023718.   Pieta House (Suicide & self-harm) 01 623 5606 IACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy) 01 230 3536 Shine: (Supporting people affected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222. ACCORD; are now offering over the phone counselling for couples, Individuals & family members. Call: 01 5313331.   Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560.  Counselling Appointment    061/314213. . Milford Care Centre, Castletroy, Limerick. Tel: 061 485 800  Email: [email protected] Children’s Grief Centre, Limerick. Tel: 061 224 627  Email info@childrensgriefcentre. TeenTxt-Text: TEEN to 50101.

DO YOU HAVE NEWS:  If there is something you’d like covered in the Abbeyfeale notes please contact me on 087 6866450 or email me on [email protected]

PROLOGUE:  Don’t cry over the past, it’s gone.  Don’t stress over the future, it hasn’t arrived.  Live in the present and make the best of it.

FIRST CRAFT FAIR IN ABBEYFEALE:  Saturday, March 4 from 10-2pm in the Square. Everyone welcome to browse the large number of stalls expected.

WEST LIMERICK SINGING CLUB:  First Friday of the month in the Ramble Inn March 3.  Everyone Welcome.

DRAMA WORKSHOP IN ABBEYFEALE: John Nelligan  sent the following; “ Anyone  can  Whistle!  If that’s true, and it is; then that principle will, also, hold good for the assertion that “Anyone can Act”. As we, all, know the journey of a thousand miles starts with that very first, faltering, step. Equally, the path to a career in Hollywood starts with attendance at the Drama League of Ireland workshop on acting skills at Glórach on March 25^th.   Famous actors, from our Tri-County area of Cork, Kerry and Limerick, who benefitted, greatly, from attending acting workshops are, Cillian Murphy, Michael Fassbender, Richard Harris, Fiona Shaw and Lorcan Curtin.  Somebody once said that: “Life is an act and we are all actors in the arena of life.”  Therefore, a helping hand in navigating the currents of modern life is always welcome.  So, don’t delay in booking one of the, just, twenty places available, by e-mailing [email protected] or phoning  01 296 9343.  Attendance costs €20, with the workshop opening at 10am and closing at 5pm.”

TOURIST OFFICE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Work has started on bringing a Tourist Office to Abbeyfeale and you can help make it happen! Are you a proud Abbeyfeale person? Do you have 2 hours or more per week to welcome visitors to our beautiful town and give them some information that will help them enjoy their visit? We have hours to suit your lifestyle. The new Tourist Office will be in the WorkBase E-Hub building on Abbeyfeale’s main street. Full training will be provided Contact [email protected] if you are interested.

DOG WARDEN: It may be the excitement of the sight of the straight road stretching from the Search and Rescue headquarters all the way up to the Town park and the promise of a walk there but the pavement from there on is covered in dog poop and my local correspondent tells me that the plan is to patrol the road for the next few weeks in order to find the owners who are not equipped with plastic bags.  There is a substantial fine following the offence of not cleaning up after your pooch.

LOOKING FOR LOVE AND WEDDING NIGHT BLUES:  The Spike Players, Knocknagoshel present two one act plays in Ratheenagh Community Centre for one night only Saturday, March 4.  Doors open 7.15pm. Admission €10.  Raffle.

INVITATION FROM OUR NEIGHBOURING PARISH:  Tournafulla GAA club are now taking names for boys – beginners to U1- that are interested in beginning to learn hurling with Tournafulla .  Make new friends, have great fun, stay healthy, learn basic movements along with the basic skills of Hurling.  Our Training will commence from March/ April – date TBC on Wednesday/Fridays at our pitch facilities at Tournafulla GAA Club.  Beginners are those aged 5-7 (or those having started school since September 2022). Any older kids that are living in the parishes Tournafulla ,  Mountcollins, and Abbeyfeale are also more than welcome .to join us and see if GAA may interest them. All are very welcome and we look forward to shortly seeing our new GAA Beginners for 2023.Club Contacts: Dan Horgan 087 6410894  or Seamus o Sullivan 086 8263454- once contact has been made (Txt Msg/Call) you will be added to the relevant Whats App for 2023 training sessions. If you have any queries please feel free to contact Dan/Seamus.

“TEARING AND DRAGGING”:  Abbeyside Players present a comedy by John Hank Regan at the Glorach Theatre on Thursday, March 9, Friday, March 10,  Sunday, March 12, Thursday, March 16, Saturday 18 and Sunday 19.  Booking 087 1383940. Please note I had the wrong booking number in last week.

CONCERT: A concert featuring the Carrigkerry Wren Group will be held in the Community Hall, Ardagh at 8pm on Friday, March 3.

DOLLY DAY:  The O’Connor family are continuing to fund raise for Kerry Hospice and Comfort for Chemo.  This time the late Jim’s sister Cora is organising a Dolly Day in honour of Dolly Parton when an attempt will be made to establish a Guinness World Record for the most people dressed as Dolly Parton.  Cora has form with making the Guinness Book of Records as she it was who organised Nunday in Listowel some years ago.  I will be on hand to make sure that all the extremities are covered!

ABBEYFEALE ICA:  The local branch has resumed meeting at the Adult Education Centre Mountmahon usually the first and third Tuesday of each month.  The next meeting will be on Tuesday March 7 at 7pm.   New members welcome.

LOURDES:   Youth Pilgrimage 2023 22nd – 27th June. For booking details contact Karen at 061-350000 or email at [email protected]

Limerick Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes 2023. Led by Bishop Brendan Leahy. 22th – 27th June. Direct return flights from Shannon to Lourdes. For booking contact Joe Walsh Tours,

Telephone 01-2410800 or email [email protected] €879 per person, full board, all taxes included.

GLÓRACH BINGO:  Every Monday at 8pm.  Over 18’s. All welcome.

FATIMA: Fully escorted pilgrimage ex Dublin airport, May 9th-15th’23, Spiritual Director Fr. Noel Spring, Contact Premier Travel 021-4277700, email [email protected] or Maureen Harty 066-7131328 .

ABBEYFEALE YOUTH CLUB:  Delighted to report that the 1^st. year youth club is up and running.  Organiser Noreen Flynn Culhane 087 2353306 would like to thank the parents who helped to get club back up and open.

COINS: Mary’s Meals – Coin Collection, we are appealing to you for your old coins that are in jam jars, vases and odd pots around the house. We are using these to translate into food to feed the children in Mary’s Meals School Feeding Programmes. Because Mary’s Meals can provide a meal for 11c, your generosity can make a massive difference. You don’t need to count it! If you are willing to donate Irish, sterling or foreign coins/notes, please contact Angela Moore at 089-4339592 or [email protected].

ST. ITAS DAY CARE: Open to visitors every Tuesday.  Morning Coffee and scones.  Lunch, card game, music and dancing.   Contact Jane on 068 51850. Meals on Wheels available Monday to Friday (except for Bank Holidays etc) Soup €1; Main Course €7,Dessert €2.The menu is put on the St Ita’s Day Care Abbeyfeale Facebook page on Friday for the following week. Call 068 51850 for enquiries and booking. Call before 10.30 am on the day.

HOT DESK:  Work Base E-Hub at Old Bank Building on Main Street is open for Business. For full details and pricing on Private Office Suites, Meeting Room, Hot-desks etc contact Ken Tobin on 086 816 2105.

REOPENING OF ABBEYFEALE MART:  A sale is held every Saturday so please support.   For further information  087 6903172/ 087 9480484.

BRIDGE CLUB:  Abbeyfeale Bridge Club meet at St. Ita’s Day Care Centre every Thursday from 7.30pm.  New members welcome.

ABBEYFEALE’S NIGHT AT THE OSKARS: The DVD’s and the USB sticks are on sale at the Day Care Centre, Toddy Mc Mahons, Batt’s in the Square and An Siopa Milsean .  The DVD’s will retail at €10 each and the USB sticks at €15.  Contact Jane at the Day Care Centre on 068 51850.

WHEN IRELAND’S CAUSE WAS SOLD FOR A BATTLE OF WHISKY.  Jer Kenneally sent me the following:  The Sacred Heart Review, Number 12, 13 March 1909 (Temperance.)

We are all more or less familiar with the part played by the unfortunate love of liquor in the Irish rebellion of 1798. The tale has often been told, (although no lasting lesson has been learned from it,) of advantages won by valour and lost by liquor in that struggle of Wexford’s peasantry against the disciplined might of England. But an earlier example of the unholy and traitorous part played by liquor in Irish history is, perhaps, not so well known. In view of the coming feast of St. Patrick, it may be well to recall it. In 1601 when a Spanish force, sent over to help Ireland win back her ancient independence, was occupying the town of Kinsale it was besieged by the English. But the English were in turn surrounded by an Irish army under O’Neil and O’Donnell, and thus were placed between two fires. It was decided that a general attack should be made on the English by the forces of O’Neil and O’Donnell on the one hand, and the Spaniards on the other. This attack might or might not have succeeded, according as the English, whom it was hoped to take by surprise, fought well or ill, but, anyway, there was treason in the ranks of the Irish, the English were apprised of the proposed attack , and the Irish and Spanish forces were disastrously defeated. This is how it came about: A certain Brian Mac Mahon whose son, it seems, had been, some years before, a page to Sir George Carew in England, ” for old time’s sake ” sent a message to Carew asking for a bottle of whisky. The whisky was sent, and so grateful was MacMahon for the gift that he informed Carew of the intended attack. “The list of Irish traitors is a long one,” says the Rev. E. A. D’Alton in his history of Ireland, “but our history records no more infamous transaction than this bartering of faith and country for a bottle of whisky.” The Irishmen who drink to excess on St. Patrick’s Day are guilty of a crime against their birth land and their religion which differs only in degree from that of Brian MacMahon. Drunkenness on St. Patrick’s Day is a species of treason to the old land and the old faith which every loyal Irishmen should reprobate and condemn.

HISTORY: The Civil War: Beyond the Archives Thursday, 9 March- Tim Horgan, historian & KAHS member at Tralee Library, 7:00 p.m.; Outing: Knocknagoshel & Ballyseedy Centenary Commemorations Sunday, 5 March Jimmy Deenihan & Owen O’Shea. Meet at the Sportsfield, Knocknagoshel at 2:30 p.m. and Outing: Countess Bridge Centenary Commemoration Saturday, 11 March Fr Tom & Dr Tim Horgan Meet at Spa GAA Grounds, Killarney at 2:30 p.m.   Mary Lou McDonald will deliver the address at the centenary commemoration of the Ballyseedy Massacre on Sunday March 5 at 12 noon at the monument in Tralee.

JOBS: Kerry Group are currently recruiting for General Operatives in Listowel.

It is a full-time, seasonal position. The shift will depend on a team you join, and it can be either 12 hours a day, 4 days on 4 days off or 8 hours a day, Monday to Friday. Overtime is available.

https://www.jobalert.ie/job/general-operative-group-5..

CHELTENHAM FUNDRAISING NIGHT:  Please support our fundraising Cheltenham night on Tuesday, March 7 @8.30 pm in Christy’s bar Listowel. A great night’s entertainment and useful information is guaranteed from the well-known panel. The money raised will help our Centre in Listowel to continue to support those with intellectual disabilities in the North Kerry area. The Centre provides individual training and employment programmes including various art and craft, horticultural and catering skills.

GROW MENTAL HEALTH MEETINGS will resume this Wednesday, March1 in the Seanchaí Centre, Listowel at 8:00 pm. No referrals or introductions required. Just drop in.

ACCORD ARE NOW RECRUITING Are you an excellent communicator with an enthusiasm for supporting couples as they prepare for the Sacrament of Marriage and future family life? Formal training will be provided in presenting and facilitating our Marriage Preparation Programmes. Please contact Aisling on 01 5053112 or email: [email protected]

NATIONAL TREE WEEK! Sunday 19th March to Sunday 26th March 2023.

https://www.treecouncil.ie/national-tree-week

ANOTHER MESSAGE FROM MAUREEN FINNEGAN:  Please keep all those old candles that are of no further use to you but can be used to melt down to make new candles for the people in Ukraine, you can leave any unwanted candles into the Community Centre,  NCW there is a box under the table in the entrance.  Also the lady who has the shop across the road from the church in NCW on the corner will be delighted to accept them.  Thank you.

SMART VILLAGES/STRONGER COMMUNITIES:  The North Kerry, West Limerick: Smart Villages, Stronger Communities project addresses the unique challenges facing Ireland’s rural regions. This project aims to unlock innovative new solutions for the sustainable growth and development of rural communities within the North Kerry – West

Limerick region. The final event is scheduled for Wednesday 1st March – 6.30pm to 8.30pm at The Listowel Arms Hotel, Listowel, County Kerry.  This event will present findings from the ‘North Kerry, West Limerick: Smart Villages, Stronger Communities’ project and will launch the regional and local plans developed as part of this process for Abbeyfeale, Athea, Glin, Ballyhahill, Loughill, Shanagolden, Carrigkerry, Ardagh, Templeglantine, Tournafulla and Mountcollins.  It will also highlight important ongoing initiatives and projects across the North Kerry and West Limerick region which present further potential

opportunities for the roll out of the smart villages project. Speakers will include Veronica O’ Connor (Failte Ireland); Paraic Rattigan (Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce); and Liam Cronin (RDI Hub). Register: Smart Villages – North Kerry and West Limerick (nkwlsmartvillages.ie)

SOCIAL DANCING IN THE ROCK:  Rockchapel community centre committee have started  adult dancing classes in the community centre every Thursday night from 8.30 -  10pm.  If you are interested in learning to jive, waltz or quick step or just want to come to enjoy a nights dancing please text or ring Breeda 087/6818113 or Philomena 087 6809249. . Come alone or bring a partner.€10 per person – pay as you go.

.CITIZENS ADVICE HELPLINE:  You can contact them Monday – Friday between 9.30 -4.15pm on 076 1075780 or email [email protected]

WALKING: Operation Transformation – Ireland Light’s Up. The weekly walks in Athea continue on Thursday evening at 7pm.

MESSAGE FROM MAUREEN FINNEGAN:  “We are collecting used stamps to help Servite Sisters look after 120 girls in St. Marys Home, Myanmar, formerly known as Burma.   The Sisters were providing food, shelter and education to the students up until the military coup 2020 when all schools were shut.   They live in a regime that is very controlling and dangerous, the prices for rice, oil and food have risen so the Sisters and their students are struggling as are all the poor in Myanmar.   The used stamps collected are given to a stamp collector who pays €5 per kilo, so the more stamps we can collect the more funds we receive and with your help we can do this. Our priests in Marley are Servite priests so that is the connection between Ireland and Burma.”  Maureen continues;
“Thank you to all those people who were collecting stamps pre Covid you can now either drop them into a box which is in the church porch side entrance near the Sacristy side of NCW church or give them to me, Maureen Finnegan 087 9845102.  Stamps cut from envelope with just one inch around it please – no envelopes.  Thank you.”

PILGRIMAGES:  Two pilgrimages to Medjugorjie travelling from Cork.
19th July 2023 with Aer Lingus. Full daily programme which includes a visit to all the apparition siteswhere Our Lady first appeared to the six children in June 1981.Our 4star hotel isconveniently located close the village centre and the St James Church. Coach transfer to  Medjugorjie on arrival. 7 nights 4* hotel accommodation. Half board:breakfast & dinner each day. Coach transfer from your hotel to airport for return flight. Check-in assistance at airports. 1 x 20kg check-in bag & 1 x small cabin bag. For further information and details please contact Jim Keogh 021 4885371you will be most welcome, but please note that our places are strictly limited, and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. September  6 – 13 Return flights from Cork to Dubrovnik, for details & bookings contact: Group Leader – Maura O’Keeffe Harcksen (Tralee),Tel: 066 7127143 or 087 1517696.

VOCATIONS SEMINAR: Vocations Seminar, Evangelisation & Vocations Conference, Diocesan Priesthood in a Synodal Church, 25th April 10am-4pm, Renehan Hall, Maynooth, Keynote Speaker Archbishop Rino Fisichella, Pro-Prefect of the Vatican, Dicastery for Evangelization, with a panel of expert speakers.   Further information & registration visit vocations.ie, spaces limited, free event.

PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK SHRINE: Monday, March 20.  €599.00 per person sharing.  Price includes return bus to Knock, 4 nights’ in Knock House Hotel with full board.  All entertainment and excursions included.  Day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre & National Museum. Single supplement €100.00.  Contact Patricia on 087 1890 236 or email [email protected]

FESTIVAL: THE Wander Wild Festival, at Killarney from March 24th-26th. Many events are free, See www.wanderwildfestival.com for more.

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NEW MABS OUTREACH CLINIC:  On the second of Friday of each month (excluding bank holidays) a MABS Outreach Clinic will be held in St. Ita’s Hall from 9Iam -12.30pm.  The contact number for appointments is 0818 072210 for the North Munster MABS Limerick Office.  Those wishing to make an appointment must make the call themselves due to GDPR.

CHURCH NEWS:  Abbeyfeale is part of the parish pastoral unit that consists of Athea, Templeglantine, Tournafulla and Mountcollins.  Contact numbers are as follows:
Fr Willie Russell Tel 087/2272825.  Fr Tony Mullins  Tel 087/2600414 Fr Denis Mullane Tel 087/2621911.  Fr Dan Lane   Retired Tel 087/2533030.  There is always a priest from one of the other pastoral areas on emergency call on Sundays and his name and number is published on the parish website and also on the weekly newsletter. Mass: Wednesday 10am and 7pm.
Friday 10am  Purgatorial  Kathleen Clarke nee Kelly Anniversary.  Saturday 6.30pm  Peg O Connell New Street.  Sean Broderick Months Mind.  Vera Broderick  10th Anniversary.  Padraig O’Cleirigh, Killarney Road.  Sunday 12noon John Lane New Street. Ted Mulcahy, Dromtrasna 21st Anniversary.  Margaret Quirke, Killarney Road 1st Anniversary..
Monday 7pm Betty & J ames Reidy, The Hill.
Trócaire 2023:  This year, the focus of the Trócaire Lenten campaign is on Somalia in East Africa and highlights how climate change, drought and conflict are severely affecting families and communities there. An unprecedented humanitarian crisis is unfolding, and almost 8.3million people are facing unbearable hunger. Trócaire has been working with our partners in Somalia for 30 years and so is in a unique position to offer support to those affected.  Trócaire Boxes are available at the entrance to the church.  We encourage you to take one home and to bring one to a neighbour.  Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament:. Over
the years there has been a great tradition and spiritual practice in Abbeyfeale parish of
parishioners giving an hour of their time during Lent in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
We are inviting people to take up the challenge of giving 1 hour a week of their
time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. The Adoration will take place in the Blessed
Sacrament Church on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday each week during Lent beginning
after the 10.00am Mass and continuing until 8.00pm. In the Gospel of St. Matthew, Jesus asks his disciples to sit with him while he prays, but they fall asleep. He asks them “Can you not sit with me one hour?” This is where the concept of a “holy hour” comes from. Jesus asks us if we can sit one hour with him. During that hour, you can sit with Jesus in the Blessed
Sacrament praying, meditating, sitting in silence, reading, etc. If you would like to take on this challenge for Lent, and you are interested in spending some time in prayer in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, you are encouraged to select a time on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, a time that is practical for you. Write your name on the timetable.
Make a promise to the Lord that you will do your best to be faithful to your hour of prayer.
There will reflections on the Stations of the Cross every Friday morning at 9.30am before 10am Mass. Garment of Pain:  During this Lenten season, the parish invites all parishioners to leave your pain and suffering at the Cross. The Garment of Pain is a simple way of drawing together experiences of pain and suffering of many people, in a way that enables us to support one another in prayer .Over the period of Lent, we invite you to place a piece of material—roughly 6×6—in the baskets provided in the church. The cloth represents whatever your particular pain in life happens to be. During Lent, we will remember the intentions of those who have placed theirs in the baskets in our Masses. The pieces of cloth will be sown together to form one big patchwork quilt. During the Mass of the Last Supper on Holy Thursday, we will place the cloth on the altar to symbolically unite our suffering with the offering of Christ in the Mass.  On Good Friday the cloth will be draped over the cross which is the focus of our prayer that day.  During our Easter Vigil, we will place the Garment of Pain with the Paschal fire to symbolise that the light of Christ is always greater than our suffering and pain.

FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF JESUS FROM GALILEE TO JERUSALEM
Take the TRIP of a LIFETIME to the HOLY LAND, 29th August-8th Sept. 2023.
Group Leader, Mícheál de Barra and Spiritual Director, Fr. John Newman
(Scripture Scholar). In association with Premier Travel, Cork
Contact Mícheál at 086-8337681 or email [email protected]

45 CARD DRIVE:  The 45 Card Drive continues in Raheenagh Hall every Tuesday at 8.30pm.  All welcome.  The Spike Players will perform their two one act plays Looking for Love and Wedding Night Blues in Raheenagh Hall on Saturday March 4.

KERRY FLEADH in Ballybunion: Saturday and Sunday 10th and 11th June 2023, and Saturday and Sunday 17th and 18th June. Comhairle na Mumhan CCÉ has announced that Fleadh Cheoil na Mumhan 2023 will take place in Tralee from July 10th to July 16^th. Sult na nÓg 4th & 5th March 2023. https://comhaltas.ie/locations/detail/kerry/

SET DANCING:  Set dance classes every Tuesday and Thursday at 8.30pm  in Monagae Community Centre.  Everyone is welcome including beginners and those that have not danced in ages. Come along and have a fun night of dance, exercise and friendship. For more information call 0863510774.

.RAMBLING HOUSES: Every 1st Thursday of each month there is a Rambling House in the Community Centre in Knockanure..  All musicians, singers’ dancers and storytellers are most welcome to attend.   Knockalougha on the 3^rd. Tuesday of the month..  Ita McQuinn’s Rambling House is on the third Friday of the month at the Desmond Complex, Newcastle West at 8pm.  Listowel Rambling House takes place on the last Thursday of every month from 9.15 pm in the Seanachai Centre.   Killarney Rambling House on Friday, March 3 @8pm at the Old Killarney Inn, Aghadoe V93 NW52 – Entry €5 – All Welcome.

SET DANCING: With Timmy Woulfe Monday nights at 8pm in the Marian Hall, Moyvane, There are also Set Dancing Classes at Fr. Casey’s Club house Wednesday nights.

LEARN TO DANCE:  Social dancing classes in the Plaza Hall, Listowel every Monday night for beginners 7.30 – 9pm.  Waltzing  Jiving, Quick Step, Foxtrot.  Everyone welcome.

PRAYER MEETING:  Janice Carrig holds a prayer meeting in the Desmond Complex on the last Sunday of the month.

GREENWAY: Limerick Council will start work on a new Greenway car park at Station Road, Newcastle West in early 2023. Design teams have been appointed to design Greenway Hubs at the Ardagh Stationhouse and the Abbeyfeale Railway Goods Shed.
TAYTO PARK REOPENS:  The Irish Theme park, formerly known as Tayto Park is to reopen on Saturday, March 25 with a new name – Emerald Park.

LISTOWEL BINGO:  Bingo is back Sunday night in the Plaza, Church St, at 8.30pm. Welcome back to all old and new players.

COMMUNITY ALERT:  Reducing your energy use; Bleed your radiators, it makes an amazing difference in the amount of heat that they radiate.  There is snow forecast for the middle of next week so get in a supply of fuel and not have to go out on slippery roads when and if it comes. FAST is the checklist for a stroke.  Face – Check to see if one side of the face droops , Arms – Raise both arms, see if one drops down. Speech- check for slurring.  Time – if the answer to these is yes call 112/999 immediately. Five ways to Wellbeing:  Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning.  Give.  www. mentalhealth Ireland.ie    If you have medical equipment that requires electricity, ensure that your electrical supplier is aware and that you are on the ‘Special Services Register’ so that they can prioritize your house.   Layers are the best choice for staying warm in cold weather. Not only do the winter clothes themselves act as insulation, but the air between the layers insulates, too. If you have to drive in the frost leave plenty of time to reach your destination and to defrost the windscreen.  I was at a meeting recently where the Garda made a presentation and they emphasised that road accidents caused by speed, drink and drugs are a problem as well as on line scams and romance frauds.
Leave a low energy light on at night time, preferably one with a high light output..Use a non-slip shower or bath mat.  Make sure wires or cords, such as from lamps or telephones, do not trail where you walk. Arrange furniture so that you can easily move around all your rooms.  Keep the floors clear from items such as papers and books that could cause you to trip, Remove rugs or use non-slip tape or backing so rugs will not slip. Consider installing hand rails on both sides of the stairs.  Ask your relatives and neighbours for help if you need it. Keep their phone numbers on a list beside your phone.  Learn your Eircode – if you have to call for help it will take the services straight to your door.  Write ICE before your next of kin’s number in your phone so if you cannot communicate the services will be able to contact your next of kin.  If you suffer from a gambling addiction there is a counsellor/psychotherapist available at the Listowel Family Resource Centre.  Further information from 068 23584. If you are 65, you 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 or if you spend long periods of the day on your own 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.  There may be some confusion over the word free -  the equipment which costs in the region of €400 is provided free of charge by Pobal as is the first year of monitoring but after that you will be charged by the installing company for the monitoring.  I have not included the phone numbers of the committee in this notice but if you want to get a panic button then ring Abbeyfeale Garda Station on 068 30010 and they will contact one of us. 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 with a deposit of 6 months payable on the day of installation.  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. If you wish, you can arrange a direct debit and pay this amount off monthly.    Committee members are Michael O’Kelly N.T., Chairman Seamus Stack, Secretary Mossie Gleeson, Assistant Treasurer Kathleen Collins, Assistant Secretary Mary McArthur, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Catherine Daly, Maurice O’Connell, Assistant Treasurer Marian Harnett.

HELPLINES:    HSE Mental Health Information Line 1800111888.  Senior Line Friendly Listening Service 1800 804591.  If you are feeling vulnerable  contact Pieta House 061 484444/ Samaritans 116123/061 412111.  Bodywhys Eating Disorders Associations of Ireland www.bodywhys.ie Email [email protected] Monday to Friday 10am – 1pm. 01 2107906.  Jigsaw support line is now up and running on freefone 1800 JIGSAW (544 729). It will provide free mental health support and advice to young people aged 12 to 25 years old, and parents or concerned adults who live in the Republic of Ireland.  Text 50808 to receive support from a volunteer.  Depression & Bipolar Disorder Support www.aware.ie Tel: Freephone 1800 80 4848 (available 7 days, 10am-10pm). Email: [email protected] A helpline for Men suffering domestic abuse operates 36 hours a week on 1800816588.    Men’s Aid (Amen) 01 5543811 Monday – Friday 9-5pm.   24 hour helplines for women suffering domestic abuse 1800 341900 or Adapt 1800 200504.  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] National Suicide Helpline (Pieta House) 1800 247 247or text HELP to 51444.   Irish Advocacy Network (Peer advocacy in mental health) 01 872 8684.  Mental Health Ireland – Helpline  01 2841166.  Alzheimers Society, Information and Emotional Help – 1800341341.AMEN( male victims of domestic violence)  0469023718.   Pieta House (Suicide & self-harm) 01 623 5606 IACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy) 01 230 3536 Shine: (Supporting people affected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222. ACCORD; are now offering over the phone counselling for couples, Individuals & family members. Call: 01 5313331.   Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560.  Counselling Appointment    061/314213. . Milford Care Centre, Castletroy, Limerick. Tel: 061 485 800  Email: [email protected] Children’s Grief Centre, Limerick. Tel: 061 224 627  Email info@childrensgriefcentre. TeenTxt-Text: TEEN to 50101.

DO YOU HAVE NEWS:  If there is something you’d like covered in the Abbeyfeale notes please contact me on 087 6866450 or email me on [email protected]

PROLOGUE:  It was only a sunny smile, and little it cost in the giving, but like morning light it scattered the night and made the day worth living”.

F. Scott Fitzgerald.

MESSAGE FROM THE PASTORAL COUNCIL:  The Pastoral Council are grateful to the Glórach Theatre Board for making the Glórach car park available to those attending the Celtic Brothers Concert on Sunday 11th. We appreciate their support for the parish.

CHRISTMAS PARTY IN ST.ITA’S:  The annual Christmas party takes place on Tuesday, December 13.   The day starts from 10 -11.30 with tea and scones, followed by a game of bingo from 12noon with Christmas Lunch served at 1pm and followed by Christmas Carols with the ACA Choir, music, song, dancing and for those who like a game of cards –there’s a quiet corner.  .   The charge is €15, you must book in advance on 068 51850 and everyone is welcome.

CHRISTMAS CANTATA:  Christmas Cantata: We are delighted to announce that Scoil Mháthair Dé will perform their Christmas Cantata, “Nativity Story” in the Church of the
Assumption on Thursday,  December 15 at 7.00 p.m. All Welcome.

ABBEYFEALE FOR AFRICA:  Our annual Christmas cake sale will take place in St. Ita’s Hall on Sunday, December 11 from 10am – 12 noon.  Please take note of the times, last year we planned to stay open until 1pm but sold out much earlier.  Hope all our generous bakers will continue to support us.  Donations can be left in Batt’s the day before or dropped to the hall Sunday morning.  We look forward to your continued support.

KNOCK Shrine Night Vigil. The Feast of Immaculate Conception Wednesday, 7th December, Coaches Departs: Listowel. 5:00pm (The Bridge); Abbeyfeale 5:15pm (The Church), contact: O’Shea’s. 066 71 80123.

STORY OF THE BUTTER ROAD TO CORK:  Joe Harrington’s recent book, ‘Once Upon a Road’, is now in its second print run having become a best seller in some bookshops.  It is now available in Harnett’s Gala on the Killarney Road out of Abbeyfeale. It can also be ordered by post from Joe who can be contacted at 0872853570 for more information.

ADORATION:  Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place every Wednesday and  Friday in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel from after the 10.00am Mass until 7.00pm.  The Wednesday Adoration will continue until Christmas.

RETREAT: The Youth 2000 Christmas retreat will be taking place in Newbridge College, Newbridge between December 9-11^th.   This retreat is for anyone aged 16-35. Excellent Speakers, Inspiring Talks & Workshops, Fantastic music, Group activities, Youth Masses, Adoration, Reconciliation, prayer, Drama, Games & plenty of time to chill out, meet new people and find out what it means to be young & Catholic today!! Donation only. Free buses leaving from all over Ireland. Register now on www.youth2000.ie”

EXCITING NEW VENTURE:  Best wishes to Eamon McElligott, of Brown Joe’s Abbeyfeale Road, Athea who has recently opened his newly renovated kitchen and upstairs dining room which is now available for Christmas bookings..

CHURCH GATE COLLECTION:  St Vincent De Paul: The Annual Church Gate Collection in support of St Vincent DePaul will take place on the weekend of the 10th/11th of December.
Any donations you can give will be greatly appreciated.

CELTIC BROTHERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT:  ’ The very popular singing family group Celtic Brothers, formerly  known as the Willoughby Brothers will give a Christmas Concert in Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Abbeyfeale on Sunday, December 11.  The concert will begin at 7.30pm. All funds raised at this concert will go towards St Ita’s Hall, Abbeyfeale Parish Resource Centre.   Tickets for the concert are on sale in Abbeyfeale and are also available at The Zip Yard in Newcastle West, Greaney’s in Ardagh, The Parish Office Foynes, Collins Shop Athea, Buckley’s Devon Road, The Community Shop, Tournafulla,  and at the Post Office in Templeglantine. Tickets can also be booked by ringing 089 – 4314765

CHRISTMAS MARKET at the Barnagh Hub on Sunday, December 11 and 18.

Saloon

At Glórach

LAST CHANCE SALOON AT THE GLÓRACH:  One final opportunity for you to sup from the cup of local history on Saturday Dec 10 th ,when Abbeyfeale on Film & In Context will screen for the final time at 8pm.We have cancelled the Sunday (11 th Dec) screening so that the Glórach car park will be available for use by those attending the Abbeyfeale Church concert. A wise man, once said, that as a rule, one should believe nothing of what’s heard and only half of what’s seen – well, there’s an exception to every rule! And, that exception will unfold, on celluloid, in all its glory at Glórach cinema this coming Saturday night, when all of what you hear and see can, absolutely, be taken on trust. Eliminate the “if and buts  and maybes” and become one of the lucky 95 who can say – yes, I was there on that historic occasion when Abbeyfeale on Film and In Context screened for the very last time. In the same manner as those lucky enough to have seen Munster beat the All Blacks at Thomond Park, all those years ago, you, too, will be entitled to bask in the reflected glory of an occasion that will last long into the future!!  Book on-line at [email protected] or 0871383940.   Postscript:  Billy and I went to see the film last week and he recognised loads, me being a blow in didn’t but found it most interesting and educational and every youngster growing up in Abbeyfeale should get to see it and have their eyes opened to what their ancestors went through in the not so distant past – it will also give them a new appreciation for the man who welcomes us all to the Square – Fr. Casey.   Because of the interest the film has generated we have been promised a couple of showings in January.

OLLEGE OF FURTHER EDUCATION & TRAINING, MOUNTMAHON, ABBEYFEALE:  The following free courses will be starting in January 2023:  1. Healthy eating made easy: This course is packed full of hints and tips for the home cook, and will allow learners to take their cooking to the next level.  2 ; Everyday cookery skills: Learners will explore a range of classic recipes aimed at healthy breakfast, lunch and dinner options with a dish to suit everyone’s taste.  3: Cookery for blokes: Men, this class is for you. This class will allow you to develop your everyday cookery skills in a modern, purpose-built culinary fun setting;   4. Grow your own vegetables: This practical course will also cover a range of useful tips and ideas suitable to your own gardens at home. You will be based in our large polytunnel on-campus which comprises a variety of raised beds and gardening equipment.  Please call the office on 06831198 for more information, Email: [email protected] or register at www.collegeoffet.ie/abbeyfeale

BROADFORD YOUTH CHOIR RINGS IN CHRISTMAS AT GLÓRACH:  The acclaimed Broadford Youth Choir will come to Abbeyfeale to ring in the Christmas season at the Glórach Theatre on Friday, December 9th. The choir will bring a programme of festive favourites including classics such as O Holy Night, I Believe in Father Christmas, Christmas 1915 and more recent hits such as Christmas Lights, 2000 Miles and Last Christmas.   Directed by Susan Browne, the choir is almost eleven years in existence and has approximately 70 members. Broadford Youth Choir aims to offer musical training and opportunities in a setting that is inclusive to all and to offer exceptional life experiences to the young people of West Limerick.

The choir has toured extensively including their most recent trip to perform at the Irish Embassy in New York, 2019. The choir also performed to rave reviews at the official Irish Gaelic mass at St. Agnes Church, St. Peter’s Church at the WTC and Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Building quite a following throughout the trip, the choir was lauded for its performances and the professionalism of the young people.

Broadford Youth Choir will travel to Paris next March to participate in St. Patrick’s Day events and are excited to once again be taking to the stage for full audiences. Throughout the pandemic, the choir continued to perform by creating safe spaces and opportunities. Christmas 2020 saw the kids brave the elements and perform an outdoor drive-in concert at Springfield Castle and Easter 2021 provided the opportunity to an online series of sacred song. They also participated in the Lourdes Online Pilgrimmage 2021 while many of the soloists went on to great success online and in person at Feis Ceoil and Feis Maitiu.

Don’t miss your opportunity to hear this outstanding group perform. You will be singing in your seats and leave the beautiful Glorach Theatre full of festive joy. Tickets are €15 per person and  can be purchased online or by contacting the Glorach  087 1383040.

RELAUNCH OF “A SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF RE. WILLIAM CASEY P.P.:”Copies of the relaunched book are on sale in Batts and in the Siopa Milsean at a very reasonable €8.

ABBEYFEALE’S NIGHT AT THE OSKARS: The DVD’s and USB sticks are in transit but held up at the port – we’re blaming Brexit.    Whenever they come they will be on sale at the Day Care Centre, Batt’s in the Square and An Siopa Milsean and will make an ideal Christmas gift.  The DVD’s will retail at €10 each and the USB sticks at €15.

BRIDGE CLUB:  Abbeyfeale Bridge Club meet at St. Ita’s Day Care Centre every Thursday from 7.30pm.  New members welcome.

CARA:  Cara are all about the Creative Arts Raising Abbeyfeale – a dedicated group set up to promote and showcase Abbeyfeale through the arts.  The idea is to use the arts to lift the profile of Abbeyfeale on a local, regional and national level.  The calendar “Abbeyfeale – The Bare Essentials” is their first project.   Calendars on sale throughout the town and are currently making their way to ex pats all over the world through [email protected] If you are looking for an unusual gift for your loved one who is far from home this Christmas this will surely put a smile on their face and they will make a collector’s item in time to come.  Sales will not only benefit the Irish Cancer Society but will enable CARA “to create a dedicated fund for future artworks and creative projects in the Abbeyfeale streetscape”.

ABBEYFEALE YOUTH CLUB:  We are hoping to have the Parish Youth Club up and running very shortly. There is a need for parent volunteers to help with the running of the club.  If you have some time and are willing to help contact Noreen Cullinane on
Messenger on 087-2353306.

ST. ITAS DAY CARE: Open to visitors every Tuesday.  Morning Coffee and scones.  Lunch, music and dancing.   Contact Jane on 068 51850. Meals on Wheels are available and can be booked in advance.

REOPENING OF ABBEYFEALE MART:  A sale is held every Saturday so please support.   For further information 087 6903172/ 087 9480484.

NEW MABS OUTREACH CLINIC:  On the second of Friday of each month (excluding bank holidays) a MABS Outreach Clinic will be held in St. Ita’s Hall from 9am -12.30pm.  The contact number for appointments is 0818 072210 for the North Munster MABS Limerick Office.  Those wishing to make an appointment must make the call themselves due to GDPR.

HOT DESK:  Work Base E-Hub at Old Bank Building on Main Street is open for Business. For full details and pricing on Private Office Suites, Meeting Room, Hot-desks etc contact Ken Tobin on 086 816 2105.

THE SIMPLE LIFE:  Local lady, Catherine Fitz from Knocknasna has written a book that can be used as a guide to living the good life.   Full of gems of wisdom it’s available from An Siopa Milsean and Heavenly Gifts.

45 CARD DRIVE:  The 45 Card Drive continues in Raheenagh Hall every Tuesday at 8.30pm.  All welcome.

RAMBLING HOUSES: Knockalougha on the 3^rd. Tuesday of the month..  Every 1st Thursday of each month there is a Rambling House in the Community Centre in Knockanure..  All musicians, singers’ dancers and storytellers are most welcome to attend.

Ita McQuinn, Monagea Rambling House is on the third Thursday of the month at the Desmond Complex, Newcastle West at 8pm. Listowel Rambling House takes place on the last Thursday of every month from 9.15 pm in the Seanachai Centre.

TABLE TOP SALE::  In Knockanure Community Centre on December 18th there will be a ‘Sale of Work’/Table Top Sale.  Further information from 068 49799.

SET DANCING: With Timmy Woulfe Monday nights at 8pm in the Marian Hall, Moyvane, There are also Set Dancing Classes at Fr. Casey’s Club house Wednesday nights.

LEARN TO DANCE:  Social dancing classes in the Plaza Hall, Listowel every Monday night for beginners 7.30 – 9pm.  Waltzing, Jiving, Quick Step, Foxtrot.  Everyone welcome.

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PRAYER MEETING:  Janice Carrig holds a prayer meeting in the Desmond Complex on the last Sunday of the month.

CAROL CONCERT Hosted by Coláiste na Ríochta, Secondary School, in St. Mary’s Church, Listowel on Wednesday 14th December @ 7.30pm. Featuring Kerry Choral Union.

GREENWAY: Limerick Council will start work on a new Greenway car park at Station Road, Newcastle West in early 2023. Design teams have been appointed to design Greenway Hubs at the Ardagh Stationhouse and the Abbeyfeale Railway Goods Shed.

EDUCATION: Clinical Pastor Education (CPE) Programme at University Hospital Kerry starting January’23.  12 weeks, modules involving education, supervision, and a clinical placement.  For further information contact Dr. Margaret Naughton 066-7184000 or email [email protected]

.CHURCH NEWS:  Abbeyfeale is part of the parish pastoral unit that consists of Athea, Templeglantine, Tournafulla and Mountcollins.  Contact numbers are as follows:
Fr Willie Russell Tel 087/2272825.  Fr Tony Mullins  Tel 087/2600414 Fr Denis Mullane Tel 087/2621911. Fr Dan Lane Retired  Tel 087/2533030.  There is always a priest from one of the other pastoral areas on emergency call on Sundays and his name and number is published on the parish website and also on the weekly newsletter. Mass Intentions for the coming week: Wednesday 10am  - The Feast of the Immaculate Conception
Wednesday 7pm Vincent McNally.  Willie Leahy and son Dermot, Mountmahon
Thursday 10am Lawrence Cree Month Mind.   Thursday 7pm For the sick of the parish
Friday 10am Purgatorial  List.  Saturday 6.30pm Paddy & Ma ry O’Connor,  Caherhayes.
Jeremiah Healy, Knocknasna Month Mind,  Ann Lyons, The Square.  Bridget Healy and deceased family members Lower Knocknasna.  Betty & Patie Lane, Kilconlea .Ramey Leahy New Street.  John & Mary Ita Collins and son John and deceased family members.
Sunday 10am Hannah Mai Scannell, Dromtrasna Collins.Paddy , Eily Mai and Michael Barry.  12noon Tom Dillane Kilconlea.  Frank Foley, St Ita’s Road.  Mary Gleeson Morrissey, Ballaugh .
A priest will be available after Mass on weekdays if a parishioner wishes to celebrate the sacrament of Confessions.  :   If you are interested in either being a Reader of the Word or an Eucharist Minister contact Fr Tony Mullins or the sacristy before or after Mass.  Baptisms in Abbeyfeale will be celebrated on the first Saturday of each month at 5.00pm. Also, on the second Sunday of the month after the 12 noon Mass. Contact the Sacristy 068/51915 during Mass Times.

LISTOWEL BINGO:  Bingo is back Sunday night  in the Plaza, Church St, at 8.30pm. Welcome back to all old and new players.

VOLUNTEER WITH LIMERICK WEST SPECIAL OLYMPICS CLUB:  Limerick West Special Olympics club are seeking volunteers to accompany adult athletes on a bus from the Abbeyfeale area to Bocce training in Newcastle West and home again on Tuesday evenings.  We are also looking for volunteers to assist with bocce training (similar to bowls) each week.  Our athletes have competed at both regional and national level so you could learn a fun new game with a great group of people!  If you have some time to spare on a Tuesday evening we would be delighted to hear from you.  Drop in to the Community Centre, NCW at 7pm to meet us or ring Deirdre at 0863628629 for more information.

ALZHEIMER’S SUPPORT: Alzheimer’s Carers Support Group is a space where Carers can discuss their caring role, source information, and provide support for each other. Meetings take place at 2pm on the 2nd Wednesday of December at the Listowel Family Resource Centre.   Contact Bridie Mulvihill 086-8556431.

COMMUNITY ALERT:  Don’t leave the house without a Hi Viz Jacket, at least you’re someway visible if the driver of car coming against you is dazzled by the low sun.  Start gathering a supply of batteries and candles just in case of power cuts and have them where you can easily put your hands on them.  Invest in a couple of hot water bottles too.   The easiest way to keep your feet warm is to wear pop socks inside your socks -  I speak with the voice of experience after 18 years in the Square every Friday at the Farmers’ Market.   Try and eat well – your food is your medicine and stay out of the hospital system if you can at all.  Keep your personal information to yourself – personal details like name, emails or credit / debit card information. Regularly access your account online to verify all transactions.  Change passwords regularly and keep them private.  Do not post personal information about yourself e.g. date of birth, where you live, family details on social media Learn your Eircode – if you have to call for help it will take the services straight to your door.  Write ICE before your next of kin’s number in your phone so if you cannot communicate the services will be able to contact your next of kin.  If you suffer from a gambling addiction there is a counsellor/psychotherapist available at the Listowel Family Resource Centre.  Further information from 068 23584. If you are 65, you 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 or if you spend long periods of the day on your own 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.  There may be some confusion over the word free -  the equipment which costs in the region of €400 is provided free of charge by Pobal as is the first year of monitoring but after that you will be charged by the installing company for the monitoring.  I have not included the phone numbers of the committee in this notice but if you want to get a panic button then ring Abbeyfeale Garda Station on 068 30010 and they will contact one of us. 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 with a deposit of 6 months payable on the day of installation.  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. If you wish you can arrange a direct debit and pay this amount off monthly.    Committee members are Michael O’Kelly N.T., Chairman Seamus Stack, Secretary Mossie Gleeson, Assistant Treasurer Kathleen Collins, Assistant Secretary Mary McArthur, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Catherine Daly, Maurice O’Connell, Assistant Treasurer Marian Harnett.

JOBS: Objections have been withdrawn and so Lilly will open a biologics facility in the Raheen Business Park, Limerick with up to 1,000 workers involved in construction. They are expected to spend €400m.

AFTERNOON TEA DANCE:  Christmas Afternoon tea dance will take place on Sunday December 11th from 3pm-5pm in Ballybunion Community Centre. Admission on the day will be free.

OPEN AA MEETING - Saturday 10th December – The Tarbert Group of Alcoholics Anonymous opened its doors to the suffering alcoholic back in 2002. We are celebrating our 20th anniversary with an Open Meeting in the Tarbert Community Centre on Saturday 10th December at 8pm. Everybody Welcome.

SUPPORT: Anam Cara Kerry, the organisation that supports bereaved parents, is holding it’s monthly Parent Evening for bereaved parents on Tuesday 13th December at 7:15pm in the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee. This event is free and open to all bereaved parents regardless of the age your child died, the circumstances of their death, or whether their death was recent or not. More [email protected] call our Information Line on 01 4045378.

HELPLINES: Senior Line Friendly Listening Service 1800 804591.  If you are feeling vulnerable contact Pieta House 061 484444/ Samaritans 116123/061 412111.  Bodywhys Eating Disorders Associations of Ireland www.bodywhys.ie Email Monday to Friday 10am – 1pm. Jigsaw support line is now up and running on freefone 1800 JIGSAW (544 729). It will provide free mental health support and advice to young people aged 12 to 25 years old, and parents or concerned adults who live in the Republic of Ireland.  Text 50808 to receive support from a volunteer.  Depression & Bipolar Disorder Support www.aware.ie Tel: Freephone 1800 80 4848 (available 7 days, 10am-10pm). Email: [email protected] A helpline for Men suffering domestic abuse operates 36 hours a week on 1800816588.    Men’s Aid (Amen) 01 5543811 Monday – Friday 9-5pm.   24 hour helplines for women suffering domestic abuse 1800 341900 or Adapt 1800 200504.  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] National Suicide Helpline (Pieta House) 1800 247 247or text HELP to 51444.   Irish Advocacy Network (Peer advocacy in mental health) 01 872 8684.  Mental Health Ireland – Helpline  01 2841166.  Alzheimers Society, Information and Emotional Help – 1800341341.AMEN( male victims of domestic violence)  0469023718.   Pieta House (Suicide & self-harm) 01 623 5606 IACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy) 01 230 3536 Shine: (Supporting people affected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222. ACCORD; are now offering over the phone counselling for couples, Individuals & family members. Call: 01 5313331.   Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560.  Counselling Appointment    061/314213. . Milford Care Centre, Castletroy, Limerick. Tel: 061 485 800  Email: [email protected] Children’s Grief Centre, Limerick. Tel: 061 224 627  Email info@childrensgriefcentre. TeenTxt-Text: TEEN to 50101.

DO YOU HAVE NEWS:  If there is something you’d like covered in the Abbeyfeale notes please contact me on 087 6866450 or email me on [email protected]