Notices

PROLOGUE:  Humility is perfect quietness of heart. It is to expect nothing, to wonder at nothing that is done to me, to feel nothing done against me. It is to be at rest when nobody praises me, and when I am blamed or despised. It is to have a blessed home in the Lord, where I can go in and shut the door, and kneel to my Father in secret, and am at peace as in a deep sea of calmness, when all around and above is trouble.  Andrew Murray.

DEATHS:  Sincere sympathy is offered to the partner Mary, mother Myra, brother and sisters, and extended family of the late Liam Flynn, Convent St. whose death occurred last weekend.  We also offer our sympathies to the family of the late Dinny Collins, Templeglantine and Raheen and to Ita O’Donoghue, Buckley’s Cross on the death of her brother Christy Brosnahan, Strand.  May they rest in peace.

CINEMA AT THE GLÓRACH:  The Glórach Theatre recently announced the introduction of a Monthly Cinema slot for Abbeyfeale. To get proceedings underway there will be a free showing of ‘Blue Velvet’ on Wednesday next, April 12 at 8pm.  To book contact 087 1383940.   They are now looking at the possibility of putting on a Family / Children’s Matinee on Sunday’s but would like some feedback from Parents/Kids on how best to run such Sunday Matinees. Please contact the Hotline on 087 138 39 40 with your thoughts and ideas.

41 CARD GAME:  The third annual Card Game in aid of the Mater Hospital Transplant Unit takes place on Holy Thursday night at the Winners Circle Bar, Bridge St. at 9pm.  The group organising it have been able through your generosity to donate €2,015 over the past two years and look forward to your support again this year.  There will be a raffle on the night.

DIVINE MERCY CEREMONIES:  The novena to the Divine Mercy begins on Good Friday and continues until the Sunday after Easter.  There will be Mass, confessions, blessing of the sick in Abbeyfeale Church beginning with the rosary at 2.30pm on Divine Mercy Sunday.  All are welcome.

MOCK WEDDING UPDATE:  Nicole Prendiville Doyle wishes to thank everyone who helped with the Mock Wedding that was held at the Railway Bar on March 10 last.  Thank you to Abbeyfeale Drama Group and Friends, Francis Kennedy (Bride) Listowel, John Sheahan MCC, and Tomas and Carol of the Railway Bar.  Nicole raised €3,467 for Nurture Africa, a huge thanks to all who attended on the night

.PALM SUNDAY WALK TO THE WELL:  Saturday’s glorious sunshine was just a memory by Sunday afternoon but that did not deter the walkers who set off from Dromtrasna N.S. at 3pm and walked up the hill, through Cotters yard and fields to arrive at the Blessed Well for the rosary led by the Confirmation children.  .  A trip to see the pet lambs in the sheep shed broke the pull up the hill after we left the Well and gave us a chance to catch our breath.  Arriving in the farmyard we were greeted by the tantalizing aroma of barbecuing beef burgers with the parish ladies serving up a veritable feast to one and all.   Great credit is due to the Cotter family for welcoming us to their farm and to the Parish Council for organising the day.

DARKNESS INTO LIGHT:  This year’s walk/run takes place in Newcastle West on Saturday, May 6 at 4 am, starting at The Desmond Complex (new venue) Gortboy. Seniors, Students (aged 16 & upwards) and unwaged €15. Children under 16 can register free but if they want a T-shirt it will cost €3.50. Groups of 5 or more can avail of a 20% discount. You can also register online at dil.pieta.ie Registration will take place at Feale fit Mountmahon (opposite Kostal) Saturday, April 15 from 12am – 2pm and on Saturday, April 29 from 12am – 2pm.  For further information contact Breda 087 7715734

TIDY TOWNS:  Abbeyfeale Tidy Towns will be taking part in the Limerick TLC Clean Up on Good Friday April 14 from 11am- 1 pm meeting in the square at 10.45am.   We are looking for volunteers and all help would be much appreciated.

WEST LIMERICK 102 FUNDRAISING CARBOOT SALES: Next sale Easter Sunday, April 16 at the Community Centre, NCW.  Further information 06966200.

ABBEYFEALE’S ROSE OF TRALEE CONTESTANT:  Best of luck to trainee dentist, Abbeyfeale’s Nadine Smith who will be participating in the 2017 Limerick Rose competition. Nadine was crowned Queen of the Races 2016 at the Abbeyfeale Horse and Pony Races and as part of her prizes she was sponsored for the Limerick Rose. The event will be held at 7pm this Saturday, April 15 ( Holy Saturday) in The Bunratty Castle Hotel. Tickets are €25 and should be purchased in advance due to high demand.

FLEADH BY THE FEALE: Abbeyfeale is the place to be on the May Bank Holiday weekend where Traditional Musicians and Music Lovers are expected to converge on the town, some to participate in the various events and others to soak up the lively atmosphere at Fleadh by the Feale.  It is also a fantastic opportunity for musicians and singers who wish to improve their standard of playing and singing to avail of the Master Workshops which take place on Saturday, April 29 at the earlier time of 11.00am-2.00pm.  Some of Ireland’s finest tutors have been engaged to pass on their skills and techniques at this year’s workshops,

Tutors are:  Fiddle –Tara Breen/Niall Murphy; Flute – Gary Shannon;

Concertina – Paul Clesham; Accordion – Conor Moriarty; Banjo – Adrian McAuliffe;

Bodhrán – Eamon Rooney and Singing – Elle Marie O Dwyer.  The classes are open to all age groups for advanced and improvers categories only.  They are not suitable for beginners.  This will be followed by a Youth Trad Session which is a new event on the programme which takes place at Donal & Ann’s Bar, Main Street commencing from 2.00pm-4.00pm.

Tickets are now on sale for the Mighty Frankie Gavin and De Dannan Concert on Sunday, April 30 at 8.00pm from Slice of Life 068-32655; Abbey Tile 068-31661; Celine 087 7697672 and Mary 087 7419343.  A Concert not to be missed!

MEENKILLY CARD GAME;  The first prize was shared between Danny O Connell, Kathleen Lenihan and Noreen O Callaghan, Liam O Connor, James Mc Enery.

Table Prize:  Paddy Finucane, Matt O Connell, Seamus Collins.  Door Prize:  Michael O Kelly, Joan O Grady.

Raffle Tickets:  Sean Harnett, Tom Nelligan, Dan Reidy, Sheila Breen, Noel Murphy.

YOUTH SURVEY:  The Big April Ask is a national survey prepared by Youth Leaders throughout Ireland. It needs to be completed by the end of April 2017. The Diocesan Youth Ministry team (Fr Chris and Aoife), recently invited young people to participate in a survey with questions from Pope Francis for young people. This new national survey has now also been created and we are inviting young people to complete this too – As Chris says: ‘it will take you 2 minutes to complete and the answers will be seen by Pope Francis himself because he wants to know what you think’. If you are aged between 16 and 29 then please take two minutes to complete the survey by clicking the link here: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/bigaprilask

LAY LED LITURGY OF THE WORD:  Bishop Brendan Leahy has asked that every parish offer a lay led Liturgy of the Word on Tuesday, April 25. After two days of formation parishioners are now considering how they might do that together in their local place.

PADRE PIO DEVOTIONS:  First Tuesday of the month in Monagae Church at 7pm.  Blessing with 1st. class relic.

WEST LIMERICK TOASTMASTERS: Next meeting Wednesday, April 19 in the Desmond Complex NCW.   Further information 087 7972855.

OPT IN: Keep up to date with training, courses, workshop opportunities as they happen in Limerick & Tipperary with Opt In. The range of programmes listed are being rolled out by West Limerick Resources particularly under the SICAP Programme but also the ETB, LEO, Skillnets & LIT to name a few.  Opt-In is a collection of courses and events aimed at helping rural dwellers find the means and skills necessary to increase their income generating options. Check it out – https://www.opt-in.ie

WOMEN IN BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENT – calling all women in business and women who are embarking on the voyage to join us for this networking opportunity on Tuesday April 11@ 7pm. Share experiences and learning and hear from Guest Speaker Caroline McEnery from the HR Suite. This is a FREE event however booking is essential. Please contact Brenda on 069 62222 or 069 66297 to book your seat or email [email protected]

SOCIAL FARMING: Calling interested farmers & farm families who would like to hear more about Social Farming, Julette O’Flynn the new Social Farming Regional Development Worker with WLR can provide more information on 087 3663842 or by email to [email protected].

GIFT IDEA:  Ann Lyons is currently selling the book celebrating the 125 years of Knockaclarig National School at her business in the Square.

ABBEYFEALE’S SINGING CLUB:  West Limerick singing club monthly singing session take place on the first Friday of every month in the Ramble Inn Bar, Abbeyfeale.

NEW TOASTMASTER CLUB IN LISTOWEL:  If you would like to gain self confidence, self esteem and improve your ability to speak in public then you should check out the newest public speaking club in North Kerry.  The next meeting will be held in the Listowel Arms Hotel on Thursday, April 20  from 8 -10pm.  Admission €5 which covers cost of refreshments and rent of the room.  Further information from Gerard Mannix on 087 2193670.

SELF EMPLOYMENT SUPPORTS: If you are considering Self Employment and would like to know more about the process involved you should contact our Enterprise Officer Brenda Heath. We are currently rolling out a series of FREE Enterprise Training Workshops for all those considering this route including workshops on Steps to starting your Business, Book-keeping, Marketing and Health & Safety. If you wish to find out more please contact Brenda Heath at West Limerick Resources on 069 66297 / [email protected] or our support Worker Dee Collins on 069 62222 / [email protected]

DOMESTIC ABUSE: Groups meet weekly and many women find it helpful to meet and talk with others who are or have been in similar situations.  To find out more just ring Jess or Majellaon 061 412354.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY ALERT:  Text Alert forms available from any member of the committee or at the Garda Station from community Garda Roger O’Donoghue.  There was an alert last week and we would ask people who receive one to forward it to family and friends.  In order that our community remains safe and secure we need to have people develop a mindset whereby they become aware of what is going on around them, vans or cars on roads that they have no business on, people offering stolen property for sale – remember that there is no such thing as a free lunch in this life.  Two members of the committee attending Pobal training this week and we have been asked to remind people that once they reach the age of 65 and live alone or with a person/s aged over 65 then they are entitled to receive a monitored alarm system.  The free equipment is provided by Pobal following an application from Abbeyfeale Community Alert but there will be a monitoring fee to be paid yearly to the installing company which is currently in the region of €65.  We constantly update our FB page with local alerts and information on keeping safe so do keep an eye on that.  Committee members are Sean Broderick, Micheal O’Kelly N.T., Seamus Stack, Mossie Gleeson, Kathleen Collins, Mary McArthur, Brody and Brenda Barry, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Mary Jo O’Connell, James Joy, Neily Lyons, Marian Harnett and Garda Roger O’Donoghue.

JUBILEE 2018:  In June 2018 the parish will celebrate  the 50th anniversary of the opening of our parish church.  A Golden Jubilee is a significant event in the life of any parish. The Pastoral Council are beginning to plan for the 50th celebrations. At this stage we are seeking any photographs of the construction phase of the building and any  articles or publications covering the opening Mass and  consecration ceremony.

CO. LIMERICK BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION:  Keith Pierce will speak on the topic  Hive records, bees maths & easy swarm control at 8pm on Thursday, April 13 in Mungret GAA Hall.  Supplier of Bee products Paul O’Sullivan will be attending the April meeting, please contact to pre order 086 1779900.

CHURCH NOTES: Canon Anthony Mullins  087/2600414.  Fr Joseph  Foley CC Tel: Mobile : 087 – 2618412.  Parish Church 068/51915.  Parish Office:  Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. (068) 31133 Email: [email protected] Limerick Social Services:     061-314111.   A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203, 068/ 31262, 068/51984. Parish Support Worker 068/31019 St Vincent De Paul  087/1213560

Counselling Appointment    061/314213 . Accord NCW 069/61000. Samaritans: 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-814342551984 Console 061-306792.   Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Mass Tuesday – Saturday at 10am except in the event of a funeral when Mass is 11am.  Mass on Saturday 11am.  There will be no morning Mass on Thursday.  Mass of the Last Supper will be at 8pm that evening. The First Holy Communion children will lead the Procession to the Altar of Repose.   Good Friday Day of fast and abstinence 3pm Passion Liturgy 3pm.  8pm Reflection of the Betrayal and Passion of Jesus .  Abbeyfeale Youth Clubs under the direction of Martin Tobin will dramatise the Stations of the Cross.  Holy Saturday Easter Vigil 9pm.

Novena prayers to St Anthony on Mondays during the 7pm Mass.  Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Fridays during the 10am Mass. As due to data protection laws, priests can no longer go to the reception desk in local hospitals and get a list of parishioners who are patients, you are requested to contact either Fr. Joe or Fr. Tony if you wish them to visit.

To see the daily readings you may log on to www.abbefelaeparish.ie and click on daily reading on the home page.  Log onto www.churchservices.tv/abbeyfealeparish for the church webcam.  You can now watch all services from home if you have access to a computer. You are asked to use car parking spaces in the Church car park before you start parking in the middle of the yard.

REPORT FROM THE WALK:  Glengurt NS Parents Association wish to thank all those who participated in the 5K Fun Run and Walk through the village of Tournafulla on Saturday last, by either walking or running the 5K or by sponsoring the school children so generously in the run up to the event.  Thanks also to the large number of volunteers who contributed to a really enjoyable community day by donating foodstuffs/water, helping in the hall or by marshalling the roads to make sure everyone was safe and hydrated en route.  There was a great buzz on the day with support and encouragement for children and adults alike as they completed the course.  Thanks to the hall committee who facilitated a venue for registration beforehand and refreshments for participants afterwards.

Sponsorship is still coming in and we are delighted to say that we are many steps closer (pardon the pun) to achieving our aim of covering the ball court in the school, which will provide a shelter for the children and a venue for outdoor classes, PE, sports and assembly throughout the year.  Race results as follows: 5K Run Men: 1st Neil Curtin, The Village, Tournafulla (19.57); 2nd Eamonn Browne, Monagea (20.42); 3rd Martin Browne Knocktoosh, Broadford (20.52).  5K Run Women: 1st Elaine O’Keeffe Creggane, Abbeyfeale (21.39) (6th overall); 2nd Bernie O’Reilly Broadford (17th overall); 3rd Diane Donovan, Dromtrasna Harnett, Abbeyfeale.   5K Run Children: 1st Darragh Cahill, Brosna 24.18 (13th overall); 2nd Paddy Harnett, Upper Tournafulla 24.28 (14th overall); 3rd Michael Collins Glenmore East, Strand 25.30 (15th overall).  5K Walkers: 1st Naomi Ryan Abbeyfeale 28mins.  The majority of walkers crossed line in 35-45mins.  Well done to all!

FRAME BY FRAME: Photography & Art Exhibition. St. Johns Theatre, Listowel, Co. Kerry. Opening Thursday, April 27 @ 7.30pm. Cheese and wine Reception. Admission Free. Photographs and Artwork by Students of North Kerry College.

FR. PAT MOORE WRITES:  I have been invisible and silent for a couple of weeks and here’s the reason, I’ve been in hospital.  On Wednesday March 8 , I was for my three monthly check up with the surgeon in Cork, it went very well, my bloods were excellent (I regard those as the Nasdaq or Dowjones index!). Had been  feeling a cold rising in me but then I had been lucky enough to avoid any infection in two and a half years.   It was the following Monday before l got to the doctor but an antibiotic didn’t seem to touch it so I was admitted to Tralee hospital on Wednesday evening. That was the start of our St. Patrick’s Bank Holiday weekend so it was Monday before the team removed a large quantity of fluid that had built up in the lung. I had found it increasingly difficult to breathe and was using oxygen a lot.  As a result I spent a week in the ICU unit, time I really needed there, not realising how weakened I had become. Then I had a week out in the hospital ward and I found this most challenging of all as I had to rebuild my confidence in myself to do the most basic things from eating to walking to washing. My Cork oncology team are fully on board and a detailed examination of the fluid suggests the presence of a small growth similar to before. This is and will be treated by Chemotherapy as before and can be successfully dealt with as I’ve had a fullsom response to chemotherapy twice beforehand.  I came home from hospital yesterday and am already in the benefit of a great nights sleep in the Spring Air. I am in great form and in great care with family and Debbie, Kathleen and Ann. It’s building up time and where better but home.  Having totally cut off from phones,emails and all forms on outside communication I know there is alot of messages of support and prayer that I’m not in a position to acknowledge but can I do so now and thank you for the felt support and concern.

Was it Churchill said, “rumours of my demise have been grossly exaggerated!”?  In summary, I had my weeks in hospital, challenging but worthwhile in that it highlights something that will need attention and a plan is in place when the time is right.

Right now I find talking and meeting people most tiring so I’m going private and quiet for a while. “

PADRE Pio Prayer Meeting takes place in Lixnaw Church on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm.

EASTER MONDAY WALK:  Follow in the footsteps of the North Kerry writers  at 11am on Easter Monday, April 17 from The Seanchai Centre in Listowel Square along the River Feale. Included are some dramatized stories, poems and excerpts from the plays of Listowel writers, Bryan MacMahon, John B. Keane, Dan Keane, Maurice Walsh, Gabriel Fitzmaurice, Brendan Kennelly, Billy Keane and more.

CREATIVE WRITING COURSE FOR OLDER PEOPLE:  The Limerick Writers’ Centre presents a series of creative writing classes, featuring poetry and short story for older people – aged 55 plus – an age group that is often underrepresented in literature and writing activities. In conjunction with the Limerick Writers’ Centre and supported by Bealtaine 2017, the facilitator, award-winning poet Ron Carey, will give friendly and personal support to each participant. At the end of the course Limerick Writers’ Centre will give consideration to publishing a book featuring the work produced. The book would be published in May during Bealtaine Festival 2017.

The workshops will be held at the Limerick Writers’ Centre, 12 Barrington Street, Limerick on Saturday, April 22 and Saturday, May 20 from10.30am to 12.30pm.

Fees for the 5 week course are €80 (€70 concession).  Booking essential.   Details [email protected] or Tel 087 2996409.

PILGRIMAGES:  Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage 2017 from June 21-26.  The Lourdes office is open in the Social Service Centre, Henry St.   All details concerning the Pilgrimage Tel 061/314111.

JIM LYONS’S RAMBLING HOUSE:  Held on the third Tuesday of the month in Knockaloucca.

MONAGAE RAMBLING HOUSE:  The monthly rambling house in Monagae Community Centre takes place on the 2^nd Monday of the month.

ult help. The age profile of the volunteers is currently dominated by over 60s with a number of diligent workers in their 70s and 80s. There is extremely sparse representation of under 40s in the grouping and this will have to be improved upon as the older members of the group cannot go on indefinitely. Please consider lending a hand throughout the year. All help would be appreciated

PROLOGUE:  “Dogs come when they’re called; cats take a message and get back to you later.”
Eloisa James

WELL DONE BRIDGET:  Congratulations to Bridget O’ Flaherty, Knocknasna and Abbey Tyres, Mountmahon  who won the Jackpot of €9,200 at Fr Casey’s GAA Weekly Spin & Win.

AFTERNOON TEA DANCING:  The Wednesday Club – a women’s group based in Abbeyfeale- are hosting an Afternoon Tea Dance in Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse on Sunday, April 9 from 3- 6 pm with dancing to Paddy Qulligan.  All funds will go to the Air Ambulance service.  The Air Ambulance service is based at Cork Airport and can reach any part of Munster within 30 minutes or less.  It will cost €2,000,000 to run annually. Tickets are now on sale from committee members including Mary Mc Arthur and Madeline O’Connor 087 9707989.

CELEBRATE SPRING AT THE GLÓRACH:  Last Friday night saw us celebrate spring in style at the Glórach Theatre, with a concert that encompassed a wide variety of musical styles.   First up was acclaimed local group, Lost Souls, who got the night off to a good start with their beautiful harmonies complimented by backing on guitars and bass from Mick O’Donnell, Gary O’Keefe and D Dennison. Philip Enright followed up with three wonderful traditional songs, before Limerick based jazz duo The Mysterious Mr Valentine brought us to the interval with the mesmeric guitar playing of Rory Keane and the soulful vocals of Birgit Burhenne, with their interpretations of the songs ‘Under the Bridge’ and ‘Fifty ways to leave your lover’ being particular highlights. The genial Dinny Keogh opened up the second half with a medley of old favourites, before Stephen (Steo) Wall followed with a mixture of powerful and heartfelt songs. Bella Ciao gave us a rousing finish, with the trio of Batt O’Connor, Leo Hayes and Mick Lacey mixing trad, folk and country and delivering stirring renditions of ‘She moved through the Fair’ and the wonderful Shane McGowan composition, ‘Summer in Siam.’ A wonderful night, and what was extremely gratifying was the genuine warmth that all the musicians expressed towards the Glórach, and the desire to play there again in the future. A big thank you to everyone involved who made the night possible, to all the musicians who took part and finally to you, the public, who supported us last Friday and helped make the night such a special occasion.

DARKNESS INTO LIGHT:  This year’s walk/run takes place in Newcastle West on Saturday, May 6 at 4 am, starting at The Desmond Complex (new venue) Gortboy. Seniors, Students (aged 16 & upwards) and unwaged €15. Children under 16 can register free but if they want a T-shirt it will cost €3.50. Groups of 5 or more can avail of a 20% discount. You can also register online at dil.pieta.ie Registration will take place at Feale fit Mountmahon (opposite Kostal)Tuesday, April 4 from 6pm -8pm, Saturday, April 15 from 12am – 2pm and on Saturday, April 29 from 12am – 2pm.  For further information contact Breda 087 7715734

TIDY TOWNS:  Abbeyfeale Tidy Towns will be taking part in the Limerick TLC Clean Up on Good Friday April 14 from 11am- 1 pm meeting in the square at 10.45am.   We are looking for volunteers and all help would be much appreciated.

EPILEPSY WORKSHOP AT TECH:  A workshop on Epilepsy will be held in the Further Education and Training Centre on Wednesday April 5 from 7 – 9pm. The workshop is free to those living and working with children in the West Limerick Area.  The workshop is suitable for Parents, Creche and Pre-school Staff, Healthcare workers Teachers and SNA’S & concerned family members.  Early booking is essential West Limerick Resources  068 31198.

ABBEY HERITAGE AT ST. ITA’S:  The local training initative based at St. Ita’s Hall offers second chance education to early school leavers  and this year their “Fresh Start” programme is offering three  Major Awards :QQI Level 4 Retail Skills QQI Level 4: Information and Communication Technology, and QQI Level 4 Pathway to Employment.  Contact Claire Monday-Friday on: 068 51790 /087 421 2459 for further information before Friday, April 7.

DUAGH GRAVEYARD:  We hope to begin working at the graveyard on Thursday night April 7 from 6pm onwards.

LAST CARD GAME IN MEENKILLY:  A very successful card season is now coming to a close, with the last card game being held on Tuesday next 11 April, commencing at 9.15pm sharp. Tea and treats will be provided and there will be loads of spot prizes.  The winners of last week’s card game, with 14 games were Marian Roche, Beth Collins and Dan Joe Casey. Two teams tied for second place: Sean O Connor, Paddy Sheehan, Gobnait Scannell and Mossie Gleeson, Tom Nelligan, Maurice Collins. Table Prize: Breda O Connell, Billy O Connell and Mary O Connell.  Door Prize: Dan Reidy and Jack O Sullivan.  Raffle Tickets: Dixie Quirke, Bridie Collins (x2) Danny O Connell, Liam O Connor, Gobnait Scannell

WEST LIMERICK HERITAGE NETWORK:  The next meeting of the network will be held on Wednesday, April 5 at 7.30pm in the West Limerick Resources boardroom.  It is important that all members attend as there are important decisions to be made as we plan ahead.

ABBEYFEALE’S ROSE OF TRALEE CONTESTANT:  Best of luck to trainee dentist, Abbeyfeale’s Nadine Smith who will be participating in the 2017 Limerick Rose competition. Nadine was crowned Queen of the Races 2016 at the Abbeyfeale Horse and Pony Races and as part of her prizes she was sponsored for the Limerick Rose. The event will be held at 7pm Saturday, April 15 in The Bunratty Castle Hotel. Tickets are €25 and should be purchased in advance due to high demand. We wish you all the luck in the world, Nadine who is a great community person here in Abbeyfeale.

FLEADH BY THE FEALE: Abbeyfeale is the place to be on the May Bank Holiday weekend where Traditional Musicians and Music Lovers are expected to converge on the town, some to participate in the various events and others to soak up the lively atmosphere at Fleadh by the Feale.  It is also a fantastic opportunity for musicians and singers who wish to improve their standard of playing and singing to avail of the Master Workshops which take place on Saturday, April 29 at the earlier time of 11.00am-2.00pm.  Some of Ireland’s finest tutors have been engaged to pass on their skills and techniques at this year’s workshops,

Tutors are:  Fiddle –Tara Breen/Niall Murphy; Flute – Gary Shannon;

Concertina – Paul Clesham; Accordion – Conor Moriarty; Banjo – Adrian McAuliffe;

Bodhrán – Eamon Rooney and Singing – Elle Marie O Dwyer.  The classes are open to all age groups for advanced and improvers categories only.  They are not suitable for beginners.  This will be followed by a Youth Trad Session which is a new event on the programme which takes place at Donal & Ann’s Bar, Main Street commencing from 2.00pm-4.00pm.

Tickets are now on sale for the Mighty Frankie Gavin and De Dannan Concert on Sunday, April 30 at 8.00pm from Slice of Life 068-32655; Abbey Tile 068-31661; Celine 087 7697672 and Mary 087 7419343.  A Concert not to be missed!

PADRE PIO DEVOTIONS:  First Tuesday of the month in Monagae Church at 7pm.  Blessing with 1st. class relic.

WEST LIMERICK TOASTMASTERS: Next meeting Wednesday, April 5 in the Desmond Complex NCW.   Further information 087 7972855.

OPT IN: Keep up to date with training, courses, workshop opportunities as they happen in Limerick & Tipperary with Opt In. The range of programmes listed are being rolled out by West Limerick Resources particularly under the SICAP Programme but also the ETB, LEO, Skillnets & LIT to name a few.  Opt-In is a collection of courses and events aimed at helping rural dwellers find the means and skills necessary to increase their income generating options. Check it out – https://www.opt-in.ie

WEST LIMERICK 102 FUNDRAISING CARBOOT SALES: Next sale Easter Sunday, April 16 at the Community Centre, NCW.  Further information 06966200.

SOCIAL FARMING: Calling interested farmers & farm families who would like to hear more about Social Farming, Julette O’Flynn the new Social Farming Regional Development Worker with WLR can provide more information on 087 3663842 or by email to [email protected].

“LAST ONE FOR THE ROAD” the final collection of short stories and essays by Raymond Fennelly is again available at Ann Lyons Shop in The Square, Abbeyfeale.

ABBEYFEALE’S SINGING CLUB:  West Limerick singing club monthly singing session take place on the first Friday of every month in the Ramble Inn Bar, Abbeyfeale.

NEW TOASTMASTER CLUB IN LISTOWEL:  If you would like to gain self confidence, self esteem and improve your ability to speak in public then you should check out the newest public speaking club in North Kerry.  The next meeting will be held in the Listowel Arms Hotel on Thursday, April 6  from 8 -10pm.  Admission €5 which covers cost of refreshments and rent of the room.  Further information from Gerard Mannix on 087 2193670.

FOOD CLOUD INFORMATION EVENING: West Limerick Resources is delighted to announce that we are working to support the FoodCloud Initiative in the West Limerick Area. FoodCloud is a simple yet ingenious idea whereby working with local supermarkets for the aim of reducing food waste and restoring community spirit based on shared food. To enable the roll out of FoodCloud, West Limerick Resources has organised an Information Evening at our Offices at West Limerick Resources (next to Sean Hennessy’s) on Tuesday ,April 11 at 7.30pm in Newcastle West. We would like to hear from Community Groups or Charities in the area who would be in a position to support this initiative, by receiving the food donations for their own work or indeed for further distribution within the community. To find out more please contact Dearbhla at West Limerick Resources on 069 66293 or email [email protected]

DOMESTIC ABUSE:  If you ever feel afraid of someone in your own home or someone you are dating, if you ever feel humiliated or put down, unable to ‘be yourself’ in your relationship you may be experiencing domestic abuse.  Talking to someone can help you to decide what to do and help to keep yourself and your children safe.  A Support Worker from ADAPT Domestic Abuse Services will meet a woman on a one-to-one basis by appointment, in Newcastle West, Kilmallock or Limerick, just phone 061 412354, or the 24 Hour Freephone Helpline 1800 200 504 and ask for an Outreach appointment.  The location is private and the service is confidential.  Supports offered are: Emotional Support; Safety Planning; Advocacy in accessing services; Court accompaniment; Accommodation.  There is no charge for this service.  Support Groups meet weekly and many women find it helpful to meet and talk with others who are or have been in similar situations.  To find out more just ring Jess or Majellaon 061 412354.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY ALERT:  Text Alert forms available from any member of the  committee or at the Garda Station from community Garda Roger O’Donoghue.  Webwise.ie recommends parents to do the following if their child is being bullied.   Don’t Reply: Young people should never reply to messages that harass or annoy them. The bully wants to know they have upset their target. If they get a response it feeds into the problem and makes things worse.  Keep the Messages: By keeping nasty messages your child will be able to produce a record of the bullying, the dates and the times. This will be useful for any subsequent school or Garda investigation.  Block the Sender: No one needs to put up with someone harassing them. Whether its mobile phones, social networking or chat rooms, children can block contacts through service providers.  Report Problems: Ensure your child reports any instances of cyber-bullying to websites or service providers. Sites like Facebook have reporting tools. By using these, your child will be passing important information to people who can help eradicate cyber-bullying.

JUBILEE 2018:  In June 2018 the parish will celebrate  the 50th anniversary of the opening of our parish church.  A Golden Jubilee is a significant event in the life of any parish. The Pastoral Council are beginning to plan for the 50th celebrations. At this stage we are seeking any photographs of the construction phase of the building and any  articles or publications covering the opening Mass and  consecration ceremony.

CHURCH NOTES: Canon Anthony Mullins  087/2600414.  Fr Joseph  Foley CC Tel: Mobile : 087 – 2618412.  Parish Church 068/51915.  Parish Office:  Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. (068) 31133 Email: [email protected] Limerick Social Services:     061-314111.   A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203, 068/ 31262, 068/51984. Parish Support Worker 068/31019 St Vincent De Paul  087/1213560

Counselling Appointment    061/314213 . Accord NCW 069/61000. Samaritans: 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-814342551984 Console 061-306792.   Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Mass Tuesday – Saturday at 10am except in the event of a funeral when Mass is 11am.  Mass on Saturday 11am.  Mass Intentions:  Wednesday 110am  William and Julia Madden.  Niamh and John James O’Donoghue.  Thursday 10am Micheal Ahern and parents.  Friday 7pm Mary D A O’Connor, 1^st. Anniversary.  Saturday 7pm Sean Enright, Purt. Patrick Lane and deceased family members, Grogeen.  Larry Harnett and deceased family members.  Sunday 9.30am Patrick and Tom McCarthy, Caherhayes.  12 noon Dan Murphy, Abbey Tiles and Killarney Rd.

Novena prayers to St Anthony on Mondays during the 7pm Mass.  Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Fridays during the 10am Mass. As due to data protection laws, priests can no longer go to the reception desk in local hospitals and get a list of parishioners who are patients, you are requested to contact either Fr. Joe or Fr. Tony if you wish them to visit.

To see the daily readings you may log on to www.abbefelaeparish.ie and click on daily reading on the home page.  Log onto www.churchservices.tv/abbeyfealeparish for the church webcam.  You can now watch all services from home if you have access to a computer. You are asked to use car parking spaces in the Church car park before you start parking in the middle of the yard.

FUN RUN AND WALK:  Glengurt N.S. Tournafulla are holding a 5km fun run & walk on Saturday, April 8.  Registration will take place on Friday April 7 at Glengurt N.S. from 12.00-2.00 pm and on Saturday, April 8 from 9.30 to 11.00 at Halla Tadhg Gaelach, Tournafulla.  Race times: 5 K Runners: 11.30 and Walkers: 12 pm.  All proceeds in aid of the Glengurt N.S. school shelter. Runners: 11:30, walkers: 12pm. Entry fee: Adults €10. Child: €5. Family: €20. We hope that the proceeds from this day will raise the final funding necessary to cover the ball court in the school, providing shelter for the children and a venue for outdoor classes, PE, sports and assembly throughout the year. This will benefit our children and future generations for years to come and we would greatly appreciate your support of this event.

YOUTH 2000 KILLARNEY RETREAT:  Young people aged 16-35 are invited to a residential retreat at St. Brendan’s College next weekend.  Further information 0863066892.

CREATIVE WRITING COURSE FOR OLDER PEOPLE:  The Limerick Writers’ Centre presents a series of creative writing classes, featuring poetry and short story for older people – aged 55 plus – an age group that is often underrepresented in literature and writing activities. In conjunction with the Limerick Writers’ Centre and supported by Bealtaine 2017, the facilitator, award-winning poet Ron Carey, will give friendly and personal support to each participant. At the end of the course Limerick Writers’ Centre will give consideration to publishing a book featuring the work produced. The book would be published in May during Bealtaine Festival 2017.

The workshops will be held at the Limerick Writers’ Centre, 12 Barrington Street, Limerick on Saturday, April 22 and Saturday, May 20 from10.30am to 12.30pm.

Fees for the 5 week course are €80 (€70 concession).  Booking essential.   Details [email protected] or Tel 087 2996409.

PILGRIMAGES:  Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage 2017 from June 21-26.  The Lourdes office is open in the Social Service Centre, Henry St.   All details concerning the Pilgrimage Tel 061/314111.

KNOCK SHRINE PREPARES FOR WORLD MEETING OF FAMILIES:  Join us at Knock Shrine for a Family Day of Faith, Inspiration and Sharing on Saturday, April 8. Hear guest speakers Timothy Bartlett and Irish Times columnist Breda O’Brien discuss what to expect for the World Meeting of Families 2018. Listen to families sharing testimonies of personal journey and challenges of family life. Taking place in the Rest & Care Centre from 11am with Mass at 3pm celebrated by Archbishop Diarmuid Martin. Activities and workshops will be provided for children (5 years and over) and young people attending. All are welcome.
T: (094) 93 88100   E: [email protected]

JIM LYONS’S RAMBLING HOUSE:  Held on the third Tuesday of the month in Knockaloucca.

ANAM CARA, the organisation that supports bereaved parents, is holding its next monthly Parent Evening on Tuesday,  April 11 from 7.30 – 9pm in Recovery Haven, 5 Haigs Terrace, Killerisk, Tralee, Co. Kerry. This event is open to all bereaved parents regardless of the age your child died, the circumstances of their death, or whether the death was recent or not.

TALKS SERIES: The Department of Theology & Religious Studies at Mary Immaculate College Limerick presents a series of lectures on: Catholic Education.?”.  Thursday, April 6 @ 19.30 Dr. Brendan O’Keeffe “Catholic Schools and Inclusion: Achievements and Challenges”.

MONAGAE RAMBLING HOUSE:  The monthly rambling house in Monagae Community Centre takes place on the 2^nd Monday of the month.

ult help. The age profile of the volunteers is currently dominated by over 60s with a number of diligent workers in their 70s and 80s. There is extremely sparse representation of under 40s in the grouping and this will have to be improved upon as the older members of the group cannot go on indefinitely. Please consider lending a hand throughout the year. All help would be appreciated