Notices

‘The Limerick Diocesan pastoral e-newsletter– please sign up at http://www.limerickdiocese.org/newsletter-signup.html’ or contact Noirin at 061-400133

October 23rd 2016. Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“The one who serves God willingly is heard; his petition reaches the heavens. The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal.” (Sir. 35:20-21) Sincere and earnest prayer is always heard by God who is only too aware of all the suffering and difficulties that many of his disciples endure even today. God will give them comfort and healing through the ministry of those he calls to assist him in this great work of mercy.  Maybe God is calling you to minister to his people as a priest or religious? Why not contact: Fr. Leslie McNamara (Limerick Diocesan Vocations Director) at 061-414624 or 087-202-8189 or mailto: [email protected] to discern whether or not you may have a vocation.

Prayer : We pray that those who choose to respond to your call to follow you in the priesthood and religious life will always show your understanding, your patience, your generosity and your healing concern for all those they meet.

NEWSLETTER 23RD  OCTOBER 2016

Today is Mission Sunday.

It is the one day when we are specifically asked to dig into our hearts and minds and assist our   Church’s universal mission.

Our theme for this years’ Mission Sunday is ‘Every Christian is a Missionary’.  We all have the privilege of sharing God’s love and words with those who have not yet heard Him.

Pope Francis is an enthusiastic ‘promoter’ of this theme and is seeking to lead all of us in a joyful expression of our individual and unique missionary charism.

In his message for Mission Sunday the Pope says “As they travel through the streets of the world, the disciples of Jesus need to have a love without limits, the same measure of love that our Lord has for all people. We proclaim the most beautiful and greatest gifts that he has given us: his life and his love”.

The Irish missionary disciples need our spiritual and financial help today. We have some 1,200 men and women working in all corners of the world, each playing his or her part on the missionary journey.

Your financial help today is crucial to their work.

We can’t do it without you. Large or small, it makes a huge difference and we thank you sincerely for your help.

www.wmi.ie

Postgraduate Information Evening at Mary Immaculate College

Mary Immaculate College (MIC) has for decades been a leading provider of postgraduate education at Graduate Diploma, Taught Masters, Research Masters and Doctoral levels in both Arts and Education. You will have the opportunity to find out why at MIC’s Postgraduate Information Evening on Thursday 10th November from 6pm – 8pm (T118, Tara Building, MIC Campus, Limerick).

The Postgraduate Opportunities Information Evening will include an overview of all postgraduate courses and services available at MIC, including an extensive array of new doctoral programmes in areas as diverse as Educational and Child Psychology, Irish Studies, Applied Linguistics, and Development Education and Practice. Information regarding application procedures, funding opportunities, and graduate skills training will also be included in this session. Following this, participants will have an opportunity to meet with course co-ordinators, on an individual basis, for detailed course outlines and requirements.

For further details please see www.mic.ul.ie

‘Marbhna – A Requiem Mass’  composed by Odhran O’Casaide at  Knock Basilica 12 noon Sunday November 6th, commemorating all those who died in 1916.

Requiem 1916 Marbhna, in Irish, featuring the voice of Sibéal Ní Casaide, is a solemn expression of commemoration. It sets out to explore the beauty of sean nós voice, together with chamber choir and orchestra, classical solo voices, traditional and early music instruments. The blend of Irish and classical music reflects two great musical traditions in Ireland at the time of the Rising. The musical motifs are carried seamlessly from genre to genre.  It is the first orchestral setting of a Dies Ires in the Irish language.

Quiet Days for Busy People Day Retreat taking place Saturday 5th November 10am-3pm in the Prayer Guidance Centre, Knock Shrine. A part of the Faith Renewal program offering time to reflect and take quiet time away from busy life. To book call (094) 93 75355 or email: [email protected]

A Weekend of Discovery, a Lifetime of Love.

HUSBANDS AND WIVES

Worldwide Marriage Encounter is designed to give married couples the opportunity to look at their lives together… a time to share their hopes, joys and fears with the one person they have chosen to live with for the rest of their lives.

THE NEXT WEEKEND WILL BE AT THE LAKE HOTEL, KILLARNEY FROM 18th- 20thNOVEMBER 2016. FOR MORE INFORMATION AND / OR TO BOOK, VISIT www.marriageencounter.ie

ALTERNATIVELY TEXT OR CALL 087-6670418 /086-8334382

PROLOGUE:  “I want to share something with you: The three little sentences that will get you through life: Number 1: Cover for me. Number 2: Oh, good idea, Boss! Number 3: It was like that when I got here.”

– Homer Simpson

MICK O’CONNELL TO OPEN GARRY MCMAHON WEEKEND:  The 8th annual Garry McMahon traditional singing festival takes place from Friday, October 21 to Sunday 23 in Abbeyfeale. This year’s lineup makes for another full weekend of singing sessions, Storytelling, Workshops, Competitions and Presentations. Next  Friday October 21 @ 8pm the festival will be officially opened by the one and only Mick O’Connell from Valentia who apart from being a personal friend of Garry McMahon’s played football with him on  the Kerry team. This will be followed by a singing session in The Ramble Inn bar.  Saturday will begin with free workshops @10.30am in Leens hotel where we will have 2 tutors teaching songs and composing new songs. This will be followed @ 3pm by the very popular newly composed ballad competition in the Ramble Inn bar. Singing sessions will continue into the night in both the Ramble Inn and Leens hotel.  Sunday will commence @ 12 noon with Aifreann na Riocht in Abbeyfeale church as composed by Garry McMahon RIP and performed by the Abbeyfeale choir.  At 3pm we will have a very special presentation in Fr Caseys GAA club which will include traditional music, singing and storytelling. this year’s tribute goes to Daisy Kearney well known storyteller and a regular at our monthly singing sessions where she entertain us all with her stories.  Later the weekend will draw to a close for another year with a final session in the Ramble Inn.

THE ROAD FROM ABBEYFEALE:  Abbeyfeale was a vital hub in the early part of the nineteenth century in the national network of horse drawn transport.  On November 4, 1836 Mr. Daniel O’Connell, the Liberator, had the services of a driver and four horses on a journey from Abbeyfeale to Newcastle West.  The four horses were named Jack, Major, Nancy and Grey.  O’Connell paid one pound and eight shillings for this service.  His driver was paid seven shillings.  This information is gleaned from the books of accounts of Leahy’s Inn and Livery Station located at the Square in Abbeyfeale at that time.  An original copy of the accounts for the years 1834 to 1842 is the source material which Dr. Pat Wallace will draw on for his lecture entitled “The Road from Abbeyfeale” which he will deliver to Rathkeale & District Historical Society this Friday evening October 21.  The lecture will examine all the horse drawn traffic through Abbeyfeale in the years 1834 to 1842.  It will also tell of the guests, carriages, drivers and horses as well as details of the cost of stay and other matters.   Dr. Wallace is the former Director of the National Museum of Ireland and was the chief archaeologist with overall responsibility for the Viking Dublin excavations at Wood Quay and Fishamble Street in 1974.  You, your family and friends are welcome to attend this free lecture in the Arts Centre at the Carnegie Library in the Rathkeale area offices of Limerick City and County Council. Starting time is 8.30pm.  The Arts Centre can be reached by lift and by stairs.

AFTERNOON TEA DANCE:  Peggy Fealey would like to give a sincere thank you to all those who sponsored and supported her recent dance for M.S.  She raised in excess of €700.  Tickets at €5 are on sale in Ann Lyons, The Square and at the Farmers’ Market for the dance on Sunday, November 13 in aid of WL102fm. Dancing will be to the ever popular Mike Condon, teas will be served and there will be a raffle.  Your support would be much appreciated.

CHARLIE BIRD TALK ABOUT REFUGEES:  Well done to the students of Colaiste Ide agus Iosef who attended the talk given by Charlie Bird  and a speaker from the Refugee Council and organised by the Diocese of Kerry last Monday night.  It is great to see that young people are aware of the injustices that are happening daily and that they are willing to try to help to make this a better world for everyone.  Charlie who also showed us a short documentary featuring the work of Irish missionaries gave an impassioned talk for over 30 minutes.  He told of nearly 40 years travelling the world and reporting from the atrocity of the day be it the Palestine people who are herded into open prison camps or the rape culture in the Congo or the million people massacared in 100 days in Rawanda, he spoke of Syria and compared what happened in Nazi Germany to what is going on in Allepo today and said that the world had not access to the communications we have now during World War Two so there was some excuse for the way the world allowed the Jews to be massacared but now we just stand and watch it all happening again in Syria and nothing is done.  During a Q+A session afterwards he was asked what could we do and he said if we meet someone who is obviously after moving to this country a simple smile or hello could mean the world to them.  It was also suggested from the floor that donations should be made directly to missionary orders who are working at the coalface thus ensuring that all monies are used for the purpose they were intended for.

CAR BOOT SALE DATE CHANGED:  The monthly car boot sale and indoor market in aid of local radio WL102fm takes place this month on Bank Holiday Monday, October 31 at the Community Centre, across the road from Aldi in Newcastlewest.

RED HURLEY GOSPEL CONCERT:  The concert was uplifting, inspirational and a great night was had by all who turned out last Friday night to the Church of the Assumption.  Red  who brought along several musicians and two backing singers and a soprano was also joined on the altar by Dr. O’Donnell’s Lost Souls who contributed several songs and much glamour!

TOWN PARK AGM:  The AGM of the Abbeyfeale Town Park committee takes place on Wednesday night, October 19 at 8pm in Leens Hotel.  New members are needed to help with the running of one the greatest free facilities that the town has to offer so we would encourage parents with children who use the playground or the other sporting facilities and those who walk there daily to attend the meeting and offer their services.  We cannot always leave everything to the few so come to the meeting and get involved.  New blood brings new ideas and energy and it is time for the younger generations to step up to the plate.

FILM:  THE SIEGE OF JADOTVILLE AT GLÓRACH:  Through the very kind assistance of Helena Quinn, we look forward to showing the film The Siege of Jadotville on Saturday evening, October 29.  The siege took place during the United Nations intervention in the Katanga conflict in the Congo in 1961, and saw a small group of Irish peacemakers bravely holding out for as long as they could in the face of Katangan rebels who had a vastly superior numerical advantage.  Helena’s father Tadhg was a corporal in that company and we will be having a question and answer session with Tadhg after the screening of the film.  The film has received critical acclaim, but most importantly has been given the thumbs up from the surviving veterans of the siege.  We hope to raise funds for both the Glórach Community Theatre and also for Fr. Tim Galvin’s missionary work in Sudan, where Helena has volunteered in recent years.  Doors open at 7.30 pm and the film will begin at 8.  There is a great buzz around this so booking is essential at 0871383940 to avoid disappointment.  Keep an eye on the Glórach Facebook page for further updates.

MAUREEN’S OFF TO DUBLIN:  A day trip to Dublin on Sunday, November 20 will leave Newcastle West at 8am. “We will be calling to Mrs. Monaghan for our breakfast and if you so wish you can order the home made bread that you will have on the table plus lots more scones, cakes, mince pies and Christmas pudding and your order will be ready to collect when we return to have our dinner. We are going to Blanchardstown Shopping Centre which is the largest in Ireland where you can browse and see all the Christmas decorations.” For more information and booking contact Maureen 087 9845102.   Make a note in your diary we are having our annual Christmas Party on Saturday, December 10 in Corbett Court.  Everyone most welcome.

NEW TOASTMASTER CLUB SETS UP 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, October 20 from 8 -10pm.  Admission €5 which covers cost of refreshments and rent of the room.  Further information from Gerard Mannix on 087 2193670.

HOUSE AVAILABLE:  St Ita’s Day Care Sheltered Housing has a vacancy for suitable candidate but they need to be on the County Council list for housing. For further information, please contact St. Ita’s Day Care Centre, Abbeyfeale. Ph.06851850.

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.

BENNY THADÉ’S RAMBLING HOUSE:  Takes place in Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse on the third Thursday of the month.

WEST LIMERICK TOASTMASTERS:  The new season of Toastmasters has started and will continue on the first and third Wednesday every month until May 2017. Next meeting Wednesday, October 19 at the Desmond Complex, Newcastle West from 8-10pm.  Toastmasters provide you with the tools to become a confident speaker in a safe caring environment where everyone is on the same path.  Great for anyone who finds it hard to stand

CELEBRATING YOUNG PEOPLE: The first step to engaging our young people is to recognise them and their contribution to our communities, and to say thank you!  An Garda Síochána  recognize that a lot of good work is being done by young people in every community in Limerick and awards will be considered for nominated young people who by their presence make their communities a better place to live in. There will be eight award: .4 overall award winners and 1 award winner from each of the four Garda districts within the Limerick division (Bruff, Newcastle West, Henry Street and Roxboro Road.)The Limerick  Garda Youth Awards for 2016 in association with Garveys Supervalue and Centra will be presented at a gala dinner in the Woodlands House Hotel on Thursday, November 24.  The nomination process is open to everyone, so if you know of a young person who is committed to making a difference to their community, please put them forward, as every nominee will receive a certificate, even if they do not win an award.  This way, all nominees are recognised for their efforts, and the certificate is a very valuable item to have on a young person’s CV into the future. The closing date for receipt of nominations is Friday, October 28.

DISCOVER EUROPE WITH ERASMUS:  Limerick Youth Service & Leargas are inviting parties who are interested in the Erasmus Plus programme, which outlines funding opportunities for European youth exchanges & projects, to an information roadshow our Northside Youth Space on Thursday,  October 20 from 11:30-1.30pm.  The workshop will outline the many opportunities available through the Erasmus+ Programme and the application process that accompanies it.  The roadshow it suitable for youth groups and organisations that work with youth people across the Midwest region. LYS’s Northside Youth Space is located in Ballynanty (beside Thomond Park) and interested parties are asked to contact Stacey Lyons at [email protected] or 083-854675.

1916:  There is an Exhibition currently running in Abbeyfeale Library displaying work by a

class based in Abbeyfeale Education Centre.

MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGE ex Cork to Mostar (40 mins from Medjugorje) May 31- June 7, 2017. Spiritual be followed by our final singing session in the Ramble Inn bar.  All events during the weekend are free and everyone is welcome to come along and join us.

Director Fr. Sean Corkery. Cost €619.00pps if paid in full before December 8. Full price of €719.00 after this date. €200 deposit secures place.  Contact Sean O’Shaughnessy 086 29 59 380. Pilgrimage organised through JWT.

SET DANCE CLASSES:  Set dancing classes will commence in Ballyhahill Community Centre on Monday, October 17 from 8.30-10.30pm.  Further information from Seamus 0851149796.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH NOTES: Parish office 11-1pm Tuesday-Friday 068 31133. +Parish Support Worker 068/31019. Counselling Appointment 061/314213.Church 068/51915,  Tel: 068 – 31157 : 087 – 9708282, Samaritans: 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984 Console 061-306792

Fr. Anthony Mullins P.P.  068/31157     Fr Joe Foley CC:  Tel:  087 – 2618412.   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: Friday 10am Denis Keane, Kilmanihan and deceased family members.  Saturday 11am Tommy Moran, Cratloe.  7pm  John Joe Broderick, Purt.  Willie Maurice Harnett, Knockbrack 12^th anniversary.  Mossie Collins and his parents The Hill.  Sunday 9.30am Patrick and Kit Riordan, Purt.  Eileen and Patrick Roche, Killarney Road.  James Harnett, Purt.  12 noon Garry Mc Mahon Mass sung by the senior choir.

The annual Bereavement Mass celebrated for the parishioners who died in the past year and who will be mentioned by name on the night takes place on Friday, November 18.  Names of deceased relatives from outside the parish may be submitted to the Sacristan prior to Friday, November 11.

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.

CIVIL DEFENCE: All deceased members of Civil Defence from Limerick City & County will be remembered at a special Mass which will be celebrated on Sunday October 23 at 2.30pm in St Michael’s Church, Denmark Street, Limerick. All family members and colleagues are cordially invited to attend.

RAMBLING HOUSE:  Listowel Rambling House will take place in the Seanchaí Centre, Listowel on Thursday October 27from 9.15 pm.  A great evening of traditional music, song, dance & storytelling is guaranteed and audience participation is welcome.  Admission is free, tea/coffee served.

HALLOWEEN:  Visit the Haunted Writers’ Hall at the Seanchaí Centre, Listowel from Sunday October 30  to Tuesday November 1from 3- 5 pm.  Suitable for children aged 5 to 10 years.  A children’s Halloween Arts Camp will also take place from November 1- 4  from 10 – 1 pm.  For further details tel. (068) 22212 or email [email protected].

COMMUNITY ALERT NEWS:  An Garda Síochána has appealed to young males to think of the consequences for themselves and others of being involved in assaults as statistics show a rise in assaults in last number of years in line with the rise in the night-time economy.

According to the Garda Analysis Service, the vast majority of assaults are carried out by males aged between 18 and 39 against males of a similar age. These assaults typically take place in and around public places (street, roads, pubs and hotels) between 8pm and 5am at the weekend. Approximately 25% of incidents linked to the night time economy involved intoxication of either the suspect offender, the victim, or both.

Perpetrators of assaults tend not to repeat the crime and there is a very low level of repeat victimisation.

Analysis has also shown that the level of assaults is typically associated with the vibrancy of the night time economy which has shown signs of recovery following the recession.

For example, in the Dublin Metropolitan Region, the number of assaults causing harm rose from 1,396 in 2012 to 1,707 in 2015, while minor assaults increased from 3,100 to 3,337 in the same period.

In 2016, assaults nationally have shown a decline with minor assaults down 2% and assaults causing harm down 4%.

To further reduce assaults and enhance community safety, An Garda Síochána has implemented its multi-strand anti-crime strategy. This has involved a range of activities across a number of different areas.

Operations and Crime Prevention: Assault hotspots have been identified and since early August there has been a high visibility policing presence in these areas at key times.

Partnership: An Garda Síochána is working in partnerships with licensed premises, the business community and local councils to address issues around anti-social behaviour.

Education: A public awareness campaign titled Use Your Brain Not Your Fists targeted at males aged between 18 and 39 goes live from today.

The campaign informs them about the consequences from assaulting another person – they could lose their job, their ability to travel, and even go to jail. It also reminds people of the potentially devastating physical and mental impact on assault victims. (Please see Editor’s Notes for extracts from Victim Impact Statements from young male assault victims).

The campaign will run across social media, and on-street, outdoor and in-pub advertising.

Sergeant Kelvin Courtney, Garda Bureau of Community Engagement, urged young men to think about the impact of their actions on themselves and others, and advised people to be streetwise when they are out and about.

“The vast majority of assaults that occur are needless and avoidable,” said Sergeant Kelvin Courtney, Garda Community Engagement. “They are usually carried out by males against males aged between 18 and 39, during evenings and early mornings. Don’t be that guy; use your brain not your fists.

“Never attempt to reason with drunk or aggressive people. Walk away and look for help.

“Be streetwise when you’re out and about. Planning is key to having a good night out. Arrange transport to and from events in advance. Let someone know where you are going and when you’ll be back. Avoid walking alone and in dark places. Be wary of your surroundings and mind your property.”

Sergeant Courtney urged assault victims to report the crime, which, according to the CSO may be under-reported by approximately 40%.

“Some victims of assaults, particularly men, are embarrassed to say they have been assaulted. I would encourage anybody, and in particular younger men, to report all assaults to An Garda Síochána. Anyone who has been assaulted will be treated with sensitivity by An Garda Síochána and it will be fully investigated.”

CALL TO JUSTICE

We gather as a people

called forth by trust, promise, and compassion.

We remember and give thanks

to the originating energy of the  universe,

to the ancient One of ancient days,

whose vast generosity calls us forth today.

We gather in circles of compassion

and make proclamations of trust.

We celebrate and embrace our cousins of creation,

who swim in the oceans,

dance in the meadows,

and soar above us in the sky.

Mindful of the brokenness and beauty all around,

we now gather to make our Earth an altar,

and give thanks for all that was and is to be.

From our planetary altar,

we behold the cosmos and the world

alive with divine energy, transfigured and transformed.

With gratitude we venture forth

to create a new heaven and a ne earth.

We are now convinced the meaning and practice of justice

are unfolding in our midst.

We visualize waves of cleansing energy

bringing harmony, balance, and peace to the world and its

people.

We celebrate the rebirth of justice and peace.

BECOMING A PLANETARY PEOPLE Celebrations of Earth, Art & Spirit. Jim Conlon. p 78

PROLOGUE: “You aren’t wealthy until you have something money can’t buy.”
Garth Brooks.

DEATHS: We offer our sympathy to the families of  Kellycia Dalima Mudiri, Killarney Road, Thomas O’Brien, Radharc Na Féile and Shelia Horgan, Convent St. whose funerals took place recently  in Abbeyfeale.  May they rest in peace.

RED HURLEY IS COMING TO ABBEYFEALE:  A concert featuring the gospel songs of Red Hurley will take place in the Church of the Assumption on Friday, October 14 at 8pm.  Red Hurley is one of Ireland’s most enduring singers whose career has spanned several decades. He is principally known as a solo artist, although he has performed with various orchestras and bands.  A formidable live performer, Red continues touring and performing and we are looking forward to him performing here in Abbeyfeale with our own local Gospel Folk Group.   Tickets costing €15 available from Sean Broderick, Moss the Farmer, David Wards, Pat Buckley’s, Heavenly Gifts and O’Donoghue’s Convent St.  Monies raised from this concert go towards supporting the very active youth ministry here in Abbeyfeale parish.

AFTERNOON TEA DANCE:  Tralee/West Kerry MS Society are holding an Afternoon Tea Dance on Sunday, October 9 at Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse.  Dancing 3-6pm.  Music by Pa Quade.  Admission €5.  Teas served.  Raffle on the day for selection of gifts.  Your support would be greatly appreciated.

MICK O’CONNELL TO OPEN GARRY MCMAHON WEEKEND:  The 8th annual Garry McMahon traditional singing festival takes place from Friday, October 21 to Sunday 23 in Abbeyfeale. This year’s lineup makes for another full weekend of singing sessions, Storytelling, Workshops, Competitions and Presentations.  The press launch for the festival takes place on Thursday, September 29 @ 8pm in the Ramble Inn bar, Abbeyfeale, The launch will be performed by our friend from West Clare Joe O’Connor and will be followed by a singing session.  On Friday October 21 @ 8pm the festival will be officially opened by the one and only Mick O’Connell from Valentia who was a personal friend of Garry McMahon’s and they also played football for Kerry together. This will be followed by a singing session in The Ramble Inn bar.  Saturday will begin with free workshops @10.30 in Leens hotel where we will have 2 tutors teaching songs and composing new songs. This will be followed @ 3pm by the very popular newly composed ballad competition in the Ramble Inn bar. Singing sessions will continue into the night in both the Ramble Inn and Leens hotel.  Sunday will commence @ 12 noon with Aifreann na Riocht in Abbeyfeale church as composed by Garry McMahon RIP and performed by the Abbeyfeale choir.  At 3pm we will have a very special presentation in Fr Caseys GAA club which will include traditional music, singing and storytelling. this year’s tribute goes to Daisy Kearney well known storyteller and a regular at our monthly singing sessions where she entertain us all with her stories,  this will be followed by our final singing session in the Ramble Inn bar.  All events during the weekend are free and everyone is welcome to come along and join us.

TOWN PARK NEWS:  Abbeyfeale Town Park Committee would like to thank all those who supported our recent church gate collection. Thanks to your generosity Abbeyfeale has a beautiful park that contributes greatly to the health and wellbeing of all our community every day of the year.

ABBEYFEALE MARTYR PRIEST; An article written by Steve Landregan in The Texas Catholic and printed on March 27, 2015 tells the story of Fr. Jeffrey Hartnett who was the first priest ordained for the newly established Diocese of Dallas.  He was born in Purt, Abbeyfeale in 1859 and immigrated as a child with his family firstly to New York and then to Texas. After serving in various parishes in Dallas he was named pastor of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Dallas where he completed the first brick church in Dallas.  It was because of his work at St. Patrick’s that he was named rector of Sacred Heart Cathedral with the task of overseeing the erection of a new cathedral but then fate intervened.  During a late February snow and ice storm the cathedral received a call out to a patient in the local fever hospital where a lady was dying of smallpox.  The assistant pastor volunteered to go but Fr. Hartnett insisted that it was his responsibility, he walked to the hospital in the height of the storm, baptized the poor woman and administered the last rites. Unfortunately, he caught the disease and died on March 7, 1899.  His death drew much attention with The Dallas Morning News reporting “No death that has occurred in Dallas for many years has occasioned more general regret than that of Fr. Hartnett”.  His story was picked up and appeared in papers as far away as Australia.  When the new cathedral was completed in 1902 a stained glass window with his pictured was dedicated to his memory.  A great grandnephew of Fr. Hartnett’s Dallas attorney Will Hartnett has begun researching the story of his granduncle in the hope of having him declared a servant of God – the first step towards canonization.

MISSION IN ROCKCHAPEL:  There will be a Mission in Rockchapel starting on Saturday, October 1 and continuing until Friday, October 7.  Everyone welcome.

AMERICAN TEA PARTY:  The annual fundraising American Tea Party held in the Community Centre, Rockchapel takes place on Friday, October 21 next.

DROMTRASNA CHALLENGE: Dromtrasna Challenge 2016 will take place on Saturday, October 22, starting at Dromtrasna National School. All proceeds go directly to Milford Hospice and Home Care, to help them with the tremendous work they do in their Care Centre in Milford and throughout the Midwest region. The Dromtrasna Challenge offers an opportunity to all members of the community to get involved in this event and support this very deserving cause through our 10K Run, 4K Walk/Run and our newly added 2K Kids Run. There is something for everyone in this year’s event.  will be our guests at the Dromtrasna Challenge 2015. The lads will bring along the ‘The Cross of Cashel’ Trophy and will be available for autographs and photographs throughout registration. They will also run the 2km fun run with the kids. This is a unique opportunity to meet these lads and chat to them. We urge everyone to bring your flags and banners, wear your Limerick jersey and show our support for these lads fantastic achievement in bringing an All Ireland Crown back to Shannonside. The 2km kids run takes place at 1.30pm with registration commencing at 12.30pm. The 10K Run and 4K Walk/Run will start at 3pm with registration from 2pm. Hot refreshments will be served afterwards in the school.  This is a unique opportunity to meet these lads and chat to them. We urge everyone to bring your flags and banners, wear your Limerick jersey and show our support for these lads fantastic achievement in bringing an All Ireland Crown back to Shannonside. It doesn’t end there, having conquered the Dromtrasna Challenge, the after party will take place in The Winners Circle Abbeyfeale at 10pm. Entertainment will be provided by popular Limerick based band FREE BEER. We will have a barbeque and raffle on the night. Donations at the door for Milford Hospice. This is sure to be a great social occasion and definitely not to be missed. We urge everyone to get involved and lets all take that step for Milford

CONCERT IN AID OF PIETA HOUSE: A gala concert will be held in St Molua’s, Church, Ardagh on Sunday October 16 at 8 pm.  It will feature Anne Phelan, violinist with the RTE Orchestra,  accompanist Jean O’Brien, soprano Sinead o Brien, musician  Charlie Reynolds, tenor Derek Moloney, the Hands in Harmony (deaf choir), Michael Doyle and his golden trumpet and Ardagh Church Choir. The concert will be compered by Abbeyfeale Parish Priest Canon Tony Mullins and Seamus Hennessy.   Tickets €15 available locally.

MORTGAGE INFORMATION EVENING:  Permanent TSB Market Yard Newcastle West will be open Thursday October 6 from 5- 8pm for a mortgage information evening.

For further information please contact Deborah or Risteárd on 069 69076 or 087 3931193.

TIDY TOWNS SUCCESS:  Maurice O’Connell Chairman of Abbeyfeale Community Council writes; “If ever proof was needed that a well presented Town / Community draws attention all you have to do is to open a newspaper or watch TV or listen to a radio over the past few days. The towns and communities that have done well are praised and recognised on a truly national scale – that draws attention and in turn draws visitors.
We may not have won the gold but congratulations are truly in order for our own dedicated Tidy Towns Committee and volunteers who have succeeded in increasing the points awarded to Abbeyfeale for the 4th consecutive year – now standing at 264. This is no easy feat but shows what good community and volunteer spirit can achieve.  Again – well done to everyone at Abbeyfeale Tidy Towns and all those involved in it.

PAEDRIATIC FIRST AID:  A free workshop suitable for parents, carers, guardians will take place on Wednesday October 5, in Abbeyfeale, in the Family & Community Hub on the Further Education Campus. Pre-registration is essential, please contact Mary for further details on 087 938 2883.

CALLING ALL COMMUNITY GROUPS:  A Community Workshop on the topic of ‘Roles & Responsibilities for Voluntary Boards of Managements’ takes place at the West Limerick Resources offices in Newcastle West on Thursday October 6 from 7 -9pm. For more information & to book your place please call Damien at West Limerick Resources on 087 9042477 / 069 62222.

AGM:  Abbeyfeale Bridge Club will be holding its A.G.M on Thursday, October 13 in the Railway Bar, Abbeyfeale at 7pm sharp, we will be playing cards afterwards.

IRISH SIGN LANGUAGE:  Marie Barrett, Ballaugh will be teaching an Introduction to Sign Language at the Desmond College this autumn.  For further information contact Sean Sheils 06962205.

RURAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (RES) / YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (YES): If you need support job seeking and feel that you are a little lost in deciding what you want to do, then you should contact the RES / YES which offers 1:1 support and career planning to individuals around education, training and employment opportunities.  To find out more you can contact Finn or Lynne at West Limerick Resources on 069 61316 or Adrienne on 069 62222. Thank you to all who attended our workshop on Back To Work Enterprise in Rathkeale last week. This workshop was delivered in partnership with Intreo, to mark Jobs Week 2016. Sincere thanks to Emma Stack from Divas & Dolls in Abbeyfeale who spoke about her journey to Self-Employment.  Well done Emma.

HELP NEEDED:  Homecare Assistant required to provide home help to an elderly parishioner in the Abbeyfeale area. Please call Nadine or Margaret on 061-490760 for further information about the position.

JOB OPPORTUNITY:  CareBright are looking for people to train as Healthcare Assistants in Abbeyfeale and North Kerry.  They offer a 4 week internship programme which will commence in Croom on Monday, October 17.  Further details and application forms from Monica Hanley on 087 8310999 or email [email protected]

WEST LIMERICK TOASTMASTERS:  The new season of Toastmasters has started and will continue on the first and third Wednesday every month until May 2017. Next meeting Wednesday, October 5 at the Desmond Complex, Newcastle West from 8-10pm.  Toastmasters provide you with the tools to become a confident speaker in a safe caring environment where everyone is on the same path.  Great for anyone who finds it hard to stand up and get their point across at meetings?  Further information from 087 7972855 or check out our Facebook page.

PUBLIC LECTURE:  A free lecture on The Good Friday Agreement entitled ’18 years a growing – a view from West Limerick will be given by Tim Curtin on Friday, October 7 at 8.30pm at the Community Arts Centre, Carnegie Library, Rathkeale.  All welcome.

HOUSE AVAILABLE:  St Ita’s Day Care Sheltered Housing has a vacancy for suitable candidate but they need to be on the County Council list for housing. For further information, please contact St. Ita’s Day Care Centre, Abbeyfeale. Ph.06851850.

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. The next session will take place on Friday, October 7 at 9.30pm. All are welcome to come along and join in.

COMMUNITY ALERT:  A salutary tale from Raymond Fennelly; “Some people are easily fooled. I was sitting in my car outside Tesco’s recently waiting for the wife. There was tap on the window and I wound down the glass. A lad in a peaked cap peered in at me.
“Ah, ’tis yourself.” he said, extending his hand. “I thought I recognized you,”
“How’s the going?” I answered, accepting the handshake, although I hadn’t a clue who he was.
“You’re keeping well” he continued. “It’s been a good few years.”
“It has indeed.” I replied, still trying desperately to remember his name.
“And how are all the family?” he asked. “They must be grown up by now.”
“Grown up and gone from the nest.” I was still in the dark. Was he a distant relative or someone I owed money to?
“I was just on my way out when I spotted you.” he explained. “We were doing a bit of a promotion in the area. I have this yoke left over, and I thought you might like it, for old times’ sake,”

So saying, he reached in to a Lidl bag and produced a presentation box with a well-known brand name on the cover, containing what appeared to be a state-of-the-art electric razor set.

“Take it,” he said, handing me the box “or I’ll only be throwing it away.”
“Ah no. You’re grand.” I replied. I was reluctant to take advantage of the fellow, seeing as he might be either a relative or someone I already owed money to. But he was insistent.
“There’s no charge.” he said, “In fact you will be doing me a favour by taking it off my hands.”
I examined the box. The packaging was intact and the contents looked expensive. It was very tempting.“I couldn’t possibly take it.” I protested. “It is too valuable to be given away for free.”
“Well, if it makes you feel better, then give me what you think it might be worth.” he suggested.
I looked at the box again. Razors like this were going for over eighty euros on the internet.
“Tell you what.” he said. “Give me twenty quid in to my hand and we’ll say no more!”
“Are you sure about this?” I asked. “I don’t want to pull a fast one on you.”
“Not at all.” he replied. “Sure aren’t we all the one here.”
I handed over the money and he put it in his pocket. “We must go for a drink sometime.” he said before disappearing behind a row of parked cars, just as the wife arrived back.
“Who was that?” she enquired.
“A lad selling cheap electric razors.” I replied. “He seemed to know me.”
“Oh, he knew you all right!” said the wife, picking up the box and giving it a good shake. There was an immediate rattle and the top flew open, spilling bits and pieces of wire and plastic all over the car.
“He knew you all right.” she repeated. “It takes one to know one – you fecking eejit!”
Women can be very cruel sometimes, and men are so misunderstood. The ‘Love, Honour and Obey’ bit seems to have gone out the window,
And, needless to say, I’m still shaving with the old cut-throat razor!”

NEVIN MAGUIRE FUNDRAISER: Clare’s Wish Foundation, in association with the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Limerick are Hosting an Evening of Cookery with Neven Maguire Thursday, October 6 to raise much needed funds for the Limerick-based charity. The evening will start at 6.30 with Wine Tasting on entry, kindly supplied by O’ Brien’s Wines,  Parkway Shopping Centre. There will also be a wide variety of Artisan Food stands. Neven will take stage at 8p for a Cookery Demonstration.  Clare’s Wish is the only Irish charity granting wishes to Adults living with terminal medical Condition. Founded by Kevin Clancy in 2013, the charity aims to bring the wish to life, to create ever-lasting memories for the wisher, their family and their friends. More than 28 wishes have been granted since the charity launched, providing respite from the normal routines of hospitals, doctors and treatments.  Clare’s Wish receives no funding and relies solely on fundraising events such as this Cookery Demonstration with Neven Maguire. Patrons for Clare’s Wish Foundation are Irish Legend Singer Red Hurley & Chloe Magee Olympic Irish No1 Badminton Player. Our Ambassador is currently Miss Limerick 2016 Aoife McNamara.  Tickets for this fundraiser are only €20 with all proceeds going to Clare’s Wish Foundation and can be purchased at Radisson Blue Hotel & Spa Reception & also on line www.eventmaster.ie

LIMERICK MENTAL HEALTH WEEK:  Limerick Mental Health Week 2016 kicks off on Sunday October 9 –Sunday 16 with an action packed calendar of talks/workshops and events aimed at raising awareness around mental health and the supports available in our county. This year’s theme is “Psychological First Aid” which looks to equip people with the skills needed to show empathy, understanding and genuine care to people in distress. The amount of support we receive each year from organisations and people showing support is phenomenal and really puts into perspective how important mental health is now more than ever. We would ask your involvement in this week by supporting local events, spreading the word of Limerick Mental Health Week and attending what you can.  I am delighted to announce our launch this year will take place in King John’s Castle on Sunday, October 9 from 6. – 7.00pm. Mayor Kieran O’Hanlon will officially launch the event and we will also have two speakers – Karl Spain (Ambassador for the week) and Dr Jennifer McMahon (Chairperson of Limerick Mental Health Association).  One of our highlight events this year is the family Funday taking place on Saturday, October 15 on Bedford Row between 12.00pm and 4.00pm. This event will see organisations from around Limerick taking part with interactive engaging pieces to raise awareness and educate around mental health with live music, face painting and prizes on offer, it will truly be a big event aimed at all ages.

NCW FILM CLUB:  Showing ‘Mustang’ on Friday, October 7 in the Desmond Complex. Cost €7.  Starting at 8pm, come early for refreshments.  This film lasts 97 minutes.  When five orphan girls are seen innocently playing with boys on a beach, their scandalized conservative guardians confine them while forced marriages are arranged.   For more information 087 6877870.  Everyone most welcome.

.PARENTING CLASSES IN WEST LIMERICK:  Parenting /self-care classes will recommence in West Limerick in September.   There is no cost involved, but as places are limited, booking is essential.  All classes are organised by staff from Limerick Social Services.   Classes are planned for Thursday mornings 11.00am – 12.30pm. Venue and start dates to be confirmed, depending on numbers.  For further details, or to book a place please contact:  Enda: Tel No: 0831949882 [email protected]   Mary: Tel No: 0863514700 [email protected]

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH NOTES: Parish office 11-1pm Tuesday-Friday 068 31133. +Parish Support Worker 068/31019. Counselling Appointment 061/314213.Church 068/51915,  Tel: 068 – 31157 : 087 – 9708282, Samaritans: 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984 Console 061-306792

Fr. Anthony Mullins P.P.  068/31157     Fr Joe Foley CC:  Tel:  087 – 2618412.   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: Friday is the First Friday of the Month. Confessions on Thursday after the 10am Mass.  Intentions for next weekend Saturday 7pm    Matt & Josephine & Mary & Phil Brennan.  Eileen & Timothy O’Donoghue, Ballybehy. Sunday 9.30am   Margaret Culhane, Knockbrack     12noon Connie Healy, The Hill.  George & Betty O’Mahony.  Monday 7pm Marian Shannon/Murphy Anniv.

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.

TRIP TO KENMARE:  Maureen Finnegan writes “We are going to visit Molly Gallivan’s Cottage & Traditional farm, Heritage & Culture Centre in Kenmare on Sunday, October 16.  Leaving Newcastle West at 8.30am picking up in Abbeyfeale and heading for the River Island Hotel for a full Irish breakfast and returning in the evening for a choice of dinner menu.  We will have an opportunity to see bread making and poitin made and of course sampling the produce. Molly’s cottage is over 200 years old and still holds the hospitality of all those years. Molly was widowed with seven small children and she had to call on all her resources to keep body and soul together. She supplemented her meagre income by selling part of her farm produce such as butter, eggs and honey on the local market. Her renowned baking and hard spun woolens were very popular but it was her illicit homemade poitin or whiskey (“Molly’s Mountain Dew”) which she sold right here in her “Sibheen” (illegal pub) that proved to most profitable. Lots of really old farm machinery to be seen.  For more information and booking contact Maureen 087 9845102.”

KNOCK:  The ‘Story of Love’ concert is a spectacular musical event celebrating God’s love for His creation.   It will take place in the Basilica on Saturday, October 15 and Sunday October 16.  This sacred concert brings together choirs from around the world, Italian singers and Irish musicians for a unique musical experience.

SUICIDOLOGY CONFERENCE:  20th Annual Conference of Irish Association of Suicidology on Thursday, October 6 and Friday, October 7 in the Brehon Hotel, Killarney.  ‘From Hope to Action: Interventions that work for suicidal persons’.   Further details on www.ias.ie, phone 01 6674900.  €30 for One Day or €50 for Two Days Attendance (excludes Conference Dinner).