Notices

PROLOGUE:  Don’t let life discourage you, everyone who got where he is had to start where he was.  Richard L. Evans.

BON VOYAGE:  We wish all those who travelled to Cracow to meet the Pope a safe journey and pleasant memories of a once in a lifetime experience.

REMEMBERING ZOE RELAY RUN TO DUBLIN:  The Remembering Zoë Relay run to Dublin for Make a Wish Foundation will take place over the August bank holiday weekend July 29 – July 31.  The run begins at 6am from the Town Park on Friday, July 29.

FREE CAR BOOT SALE AND INDOOR MARKET:  The Indoor Market and Car Boot held once a month in the Community Centre, NCW in aid of local community radio will be free to stall holders and patrons on Sunday, August 7.  Gates open 7.30am.  Further information 0876866450/06966200.

CHARITY DANCE:  A dance in aid of Millstreet and Kanturk Hospitals will take place at the Edel Quinn Hall, Kanturk on Friday, August 12 with music by Noel Cronin,Barry O’Halloran Band, Heart to Heart, Blackwater Sound, Ger Healy The Singing Jarvey, Billy O’Brien and Shine Band and special guests Mary Desmond and Laura Dunlea.  MC for the night is Benny McCarthy, Duagh , a presenter on WL102fm.  Doors open 8pm with dancing from 8.30 – 12.30pm.  Admission €10.  Further information 087 9735113 and on Facebook.

CEILI:   The Striolan Ceili Band will be the star attraction at the Annual Ceili in aid of the Irish Cancer Society in Knockaderry Community Hall on Friday, August 5 next.  Dancing 9.30-12.30.  Teas served.  Contact Teresa Lenihan for further details on 087 9427259.

NATIONAL NOVENA:   The Novena to Our Lady of Knock will take place from August 14-22.  The theme for this year is ‘Merciful like the Father’ in keeping with the Jubilee Year of Mercy.

JOBS AVAILABLE:  There are CE Positions available at Fr.Casey’s GAA Grounds and Abbeyfeale Town Park. Positions Include Groundskeepers, Gardeners, Caretakers, Forestry and a Research Assistant.   Working Hours Flexible. Opportunity for upskilling as per DSP Guidelines.  Apply through local DSP Office, Fr.Casey’s GAA or the Town Park.  Contact 068 31799 or 087 928 2322

PHONE CONNECT SEEKS VOLUNTEERS. The Phone Connect project is a free community based telephone support service offered to older people in the West Limerick Area empowering them to remain independent in their own homes.   The weekly service provides a listening ear to the elderly allowing them to share any worries or concerns and to be informed of any local events or services.  West Limerick Resources, in association with RCCN (Housing) Ltd., are now seeking volunteers to make these phone-calls from a dedicated space where a mobile phone and credit will be supplied.  Training will also be made available.  If you would be interested in volunteering or require more information, we would be delighted to hear from you by calling Damien at West Limerick Resources on 087 9042477 or Stefanie on 087 3290483.

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, August 5 at 9.30pm. All are welcome to come along and join in the singing, tell a story, or just listen to the performers.

ST. ITA’S ATHLETIC CLUB NOTES:  Well done to all St. Ita’s A.C. members that took part in the Run Killarney 10k & Half Marathon over the weekend.  St Ita’s AC  training every Saturday morning @ 8.30am with club members meeting at Fealefit in Abbeyfeale.  If you wish to join St Ita’s Athletics Club contact Shane 0872891015 for details

Best of Luck to all our members taking part in the Remembering Zoe Relay Run to Dublin this coming weekend, a massive undertaking to run 450km from Abbeyfeale to Dublin
Route details and Schedule below of The Remembering Zoë Relay run to Dublin for Make a Wish Foundation over the August bank holiday weekend July 29 – August 1.
Day 1 : Abbeyfeale – Castleisland – Killarney – Macroom – Cork City – Fermoy – 170km
Day 2 : Fermoy – Mitchelstown – Cahir – Clonmel – Kilkenny – Carlow – 161km
Day 3 : Carlow – Castledermot – Newbridge – Naas – Rathcoole – Leopards town – 120km
‘ Go n-eiri an bothar leat ‘

SEISIÚN:  The Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann sponsored traditional entertainment programme for the summer season has started.  Thursday nights at the Devon Inn Templeglantine a host of musicians, singers and dancers combine to present a top class show of Irish traditional entertainment for visitors and locals alike. Towards the end of the night, time is allowed for audience participation.  The Templeglantine Seisiún takes plac at 8.45pm.  There is also one in Rockchapel on Tuesday nights.

GLÓRACH DRAMA GROUP:  We continue the long tradition of Abbeyfeale drama groups partaking in pub theatre at John B Keane’s bar in Listowel, where we will be presenting a shortened version of the Listowel legend’s play, The Rain at the end of the Summer.  It’s always been a great experience performing at this pub, where the gap between audience and actor is virtually non-existent.  We’ll be treading the improvised stage this Thursday, July 28 at 9 pm so come along to John B’s for a good evening’s entertainment.

COURSE IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT:  A course in personal development runs one evening a week from September to May and seven Saturdays or Sundays through the year in Tralee, Killarney and Limerick.  It is organised by SHEP (The social and health education project).  For further information contact Helen O’Grady 085 8626844.

ST. ITA’S FAITH CAMP:  Please note registration will take place at 9am on Tuesday, August 2 at St Mary’s Boys School for those children who are not registered already. Application forms available in church porches.  Cost €40 for first child & € 20 per additional child in family. Activities include Art, drama, Music, Sport, faith teaching. Tel Martina 087/2788834 Lorraine 086/3765751 for more information and registration form.

NIGHT AT THE DOGS:  Fr Casey’s GAA Fundraising Night at the Dogs will take place on Saturday, August 13 at Limerick Greyhound Stadium.  .All proceeds in aid of field development.  Your support will be greatly appreciated. A bus will leave Abbeyfeale for Fr Casey’s fundraising field development night at the dogs at Limerick Greyhound Stadium on Saturday, August 13 at 6pm sharp.  Prices adults €10,U18s €3…Seats must be pre booked and paid by August 1 by contacting 085-7080547, names also will be taken on July 25,28 from 6.45-7.30 at the clubrooms or on Sunday mornings 10.45-11.45 at underage training

SAGART PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES:  A five day pilgrimage to Lourdes will travel to Lourdes on September 22 and return on September 27.  Further information from Canon John O’Shea or Fr. Joe Foley.

ABBEYFEALE CYCLING CLUB:  Their first charity cycle will be in aid of St Gabriel’s School in Limerick and will take place on Sunday, August 14.

FEALE FIT NOTES:  Dublin City Marathon Training every Saturday morning @ 8.30am.  Well done to all Fealefit & St Ita’s Ac  members who took part in events over the weekend.  Fealefit are taking part in Adare to Survive this year and fundraising for the ‘ Community crisis support team’.  If you’re interested in joining us register at Adare to survive & join team Fealefit.  All Fealefit event training is free of charge and open to all levels of fitness,if you wish join us at any event please contact us…see www.Fealefit.com for all details on training & Upcoming events or Contact Shane 087 2891015 Kadie 087 7771552

TIDY TOWNS :  Members of the committee meet in the Square every Wednesday evening from7pm for an hour and along with the Tus staff are responsible for the resplendent display of roses, pots and tubs around the town.  More help would be appreciated.

GRAVEYARD MASS IN SPRINGMOUNT, DUAGH:  Thursday, July 28 at 8pm.

RELIG IDE NAOFA GRAVEYARD MASS:  Reilig Ide Naofa Graveyard Mass will take place on Thursday, August 18 @ 7.30pm – weather permitting.  Clean up takes place every Tuesday, if you are available some evening please call, all help is greatly appreciated as the graveyard is large and needs constant weeding.  So come along and join the group, it’s a great workout!!! All are welcome.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH NOTES: Parish office 11-1pm Tuesday-Friday 068 31133. +Parish Support Worker 068/31019. Counselling Appointment 061/314213.Church 068/51915, Canon John O’Shea P.P.:  Tel: 068 – 31157 : 087 – 9708282, 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:  Wednesday 10am   Charles Fealey The hill and deceased family members. Thursday10am   Patrick and Mary Woulfe, St. Ita’s Terrace. Friday 8pm  Dick Fitzgerald , The Railway  Months Mind.   Saturday11am   Margaret & Con Flynn, Main Street.  7pm  Colm Mangan . Gerard O’ Brien Ballaugh .Sunday 9.30am  Luke Scannell Clash Rd.  Mary Scannell, The Hill Months Mind.

Log onto www.churchservices.tv/abbeyfealeparish. for the church webcam.  A direct link from the parish website has been set up.  You are asked to use car parking spaces in the Church car park before you start parking in the middle of the yard.

DAN PADDY ANDY FESTIVAL:  The flags are flying around the Dan Paddy Andy Memorial in Lyreacrompane which means that the annual festival is coming up over the four days of the August Bank Holiday weekend. Plenty of dancing as usual in the Festival marquee starting on Friday night with a Ceíli.  Tim Joe and Ann O’Riordan provide the music.  Music for the rest of the weekend is by Mike Condon, Eddie Lee, Singing Jarvey, Stevie Donegan and Mike Fitzgerald. There is also a Dog Show, a Bog Walk with Falconry display and great Storytelling with Frances Kennedy and Sonny Egan. Bring your dancing shoes to the Waltzing Competition on Sunday night. Details 087 2853570

RAMBLING HOUSE IN LISTOWEL:  Listowel Rambling House will take place in the Seanchaí Centre on Thursday July 28 from 9.15 pm.  Admission is free to this informal evening of traditional music, song, dance & storytelling.

ST. JOHN OF GOD KERRY SERVICES & ST.MARY’S OF THE ANGELS, BEAUFORT:  Golf Classic on Friday, August 5 at O’ Mahony’s Point, Killarney Golf & Fishing Club—Team of 4 event (any combination) Ladies and Gents Prizes.  €200 per team.  Timesheet is open, contact Helen 0871338702, Presentation of Prizes takes place at 9.30pm in Clubhouse.

TEAM LEADERS AND COLLECTORS REQUIRED:  Barnardos Children’s Charity is looking for volunteers to help collect funds during our national collection day “Buckets for Barnardos” taking place on Friday September 16, with an organised bag pack, or on the streets shaking buckets in locations throughout Limerick.  Contact Mary on 1850 217 217 or email [email protected]

PILGRIMAGE:  3 day Pilgrimage to Knock and Lough Derg from August 22- 24.  All in package includes visit to Knock, day retreat on Lough Derg, Coach for 3 days, Breakfasts, Evening meals and Accommodation in Bundoran. Early booking is advised due to waiting lists from previous pilgrimage in May. Deposit secures booking. Contact Cormac O’Connor Coach Tours on 023-8849196, 087-6167835 for further details.

ARE YOU IN CRISIS:  There are several organizations who will help if you are under pressure and these include the newly formed West Limerick Crisis Intervention Team who can be reached on 085 1777631, the Mind Our Farm Families is a dedicated suicide and self-harm phone line 1890 130 022 between IFA and Pieta House.  The phone line for IFA members will put farmers and their families in direct contact with a Pieta House trained therapist.  Then there is the Samaritans on free call 116 123.

FREE 6 WEEK COURSE:  A free 6 week course run on a Stress-Strain-Coping model will take place in the West Limerick area shortly for people who are affected by someone else’s’ substance misuse.  Further information from Mags Dillon Community Substance Misuse Team 086 4141890 or [email protected]

CARE OF OLDER PERSON COURSE:  Family Carers Ireland are providing the QQI Level 5 Care of the older person module on September 7 in Limerick, this will be the first module off the Full QQI Healthcare Award.  To express an interest contact the training unit on 0579370221.

TRÓCAIRE is launching an Emergency Appeal to the Irish public to raise money for the dire situation in East and Southern Africa and in countries in Central America. Severe droughts are affecting these areas and are devastating food production. Please donate to Trócaire’s Emergency Appeal now – online at trocaire.org/donate or by calling 1850 408 408.

REEK SUNDAY: The annual Reek Sunday pilgrimage takes place on Sunday next – the last Sunday in July on Ireland’s holy mountain Croagh Patrick in the Archdiocese of Tuam.  The pilgrimage will be led by Most Reverend Michael Neary, Archbishop of Tuam and Most Reverend Charles J. Brown, Apostolic Nuncio to Ireland who will deliver the homily for this year’s pilgrimage. This pilgrimage has been carried out uninterrupted for over 1500 years. Croagh Patrick has over 100,000 visitors annually with up to 20,000 making the pilgrimage on Reek Sunday weekend each year. This year’s pilgrimage on Sunday 31 July is taking place in the context of the Jubilee Year of Mercy. Parishioners from all over Ireland are invited to participate in the pilgrimage. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available on the summit from 7.30am and will conclude at 2.00pm. The first Mass on the summit will be celebrated at 8.00am and every half hour after that until the final Mass of the day at 2.00pm..

MAUREEN IS ON THE ROAD AGAIN: Visit the Italian Gardens on Garnish Island  in West Cork on Sunday, August 21, leaving NCW at 8.30am..  We will as usual have our full Irish Breakfast and choice of dinner menu.   For more information and booking Contact Maureen 087 9845102.

PROLOGUE: Do not fear life,  as you do not fear the stars or the evening breeze.  We are all here for a purpose and everything happens for a reason.  Lori Hard.

DEATHS:  We offer our sympathy to the family of Michael O’Donnell  whose funeral took place during the week. We also offer sincere sympathies to Mrs. Fitzgerald and family on the death of Ned Fitzgerald, Meenahela whose funeral also took place this week.  Sympathy too is offered to the family of the late John Joe (Retired Gard Síochána) O’Connor, ‘Saithne’ Balrothery, Balbriggan, Dublin and Abbeyfeale.  May they rest in peace.

RECENT WEDDINGS:  Congratulations to Leanne Riordan  and  John O’Sullivan , Ciara Broderick and Anthony O’Connor,   Lesley Harnett  &  Joseph Kelly,  Lisa Crowley & David Sweeney, Padraig Cahill  & Sharan Keane, Hannah O’Connell & John Neilan and Una Dennison & Vincent Coyne.  We wish them every happiness in their lives together.

TOWN PARK INVITATION:  Abbeyfeale Town Park requires a new plan to cover the next number of years in order to bring the park to its next stage of development.  Abbeyfeale Town Park Committee would like to invite all interested parties to attend the town park on Wednesday July 13 at 7.00 p.m.  So, if you want your voice heard and your ideas noted, please come along. This is your opportunity to have your say.

FURNITURE SALE:  Back2New Community Upcycling is having a three day sale/exhibition on Wednesday, July 20 – 23.  Unique, upcycled and redesigned furniture from €25.  Address of three day sale is The Red Door Incubation Centre, The Square, Newcastle West.  Opening times: 10am-5pm.  Back2New Community Upcycling is a project established by West Limerick Resources and is facilitated under the TUS programme.  www.facebook.com/back2newupcycling

CHERNOBYL CHILDREN’S COLLECTION:  The collection which took place two weeks ago raised well over €800 so a big thank you to all who supported it.  There are two children in town for the next month at Kathleen and Nelius Collins’s.

CONGRATULATIONS ANN MARIE:  Delighted to hear that acting principal Ann Marie Downes O’Donovan has been appointed Principal of Dromtrasna N.S.  We wish her all the best in the years to come.

PHONE CONNECT SEEKS VOLUNTEERS. The Phone Connect project is a free community based telephone support service offered to older people in the West Limerick Area empowering them to remain independent in their own homes.   The weekly service provides a listening ear to the elderly allowing them to share any worries or concerns and to be informed of any local events or services.  West Limerick Resources are now seeking volunteers to make these phone-calls from a dedicated space where a mobile phone and credit will be supplied.  Training will also be made available.  If you would be interested in volunteering or require more information, we would be delighted to hear from you by calling Damien at West Limerick Resources on 087 9042477 or Stefanie on 087 3290483.

ABBEYFEALE IS THE PLACE TO BE: How many towns are a gateway to the South West with Killarney, Dingle, Listowel and Tralee on its doorstep?    Where would you find a park like the Abbeyfeale Town Park with such facilities available all year round and free to all,  be able to  access the Southern Trail a short few minutes away at the end of New St. ,.or take a stroll along the Sli na Slainte 6.8 km marked walk.  How many towns are on a main route with a choice of buses every hour,  have a hotel, a hostel, several bed and breakfasts, restaurants, coffee and tea shops all on or close to the Main St. and within walking distance of the bus stop.  We have an airport half an hour away and a second one with international flights just over an hour away and access to a train service from Farranfore, Tralee, Charleville or Limerick.  Abbeyfeale has a theatre, several vibrant drama groups for adults and children alike, three youth clubs, an adult education campus with an active Men Shed on the grounds.  That list is by no means comprehensive and should also include a horse riding school, GAA, Rugby, Soccer pitches all with their own clubhouses, a sport and leisure hall, karate classes, set and social dance classes, bridge and badminton, basketball,  a handball alley, a vibrant fishing club, and St. Ita’s Hall with billiards and snooker and a Youth Café.  We have an athletics club, newly established cycling and boxing clubs and we have historical sites too, like the Cillins, Killenagh Holy Well, Port Castle, The Railway House, Fr. Casey’s Monument, The Abbey Graveyard and more.  We cannot forget too, how close we are to Ballybunion with its world class golf links as well as an unspoiled blue flag beach, with Beale and Banna Strands just a short hop away.   Since the Tidy Towns committee reformed, the town looks resplendent with red roses blooming in the Square, pots of flowers on the street, shopfronts painted and hanging baskets everywhere so let us all be proud of where we live and lose no opportunity to sing its praises and invite visitors to sample all we have to offer.

CRAFT FAIR ON THE COBBLES: There has been a fair bit of interest from crafters for the fair next Friday in the Square so please God it will be well supported now that there is no festival at its back.  We have jewellery, makeup, furniture, jams, crochet and kitting confirmed , Helga will be back with new season carrots and we’ll have the last few jars of early season Knocknagoshel honey.

SALE OF PRODUCE FROM THE PARISH COMMUNITY GARDEN:  We will hold a sale of whatever has been harvested next weekend at the 9.30am Sunday Mass.  We have honey from our beehives, jams from the fruit bushes, some new potatoes, rhubarb, onions, some pot plants, pots of parsley and thyme and a few surprises.   All monies raised going as usual to support Fr. Tim Galvin’s Mission in South Sudan.

HARNETT REUNION NEWS:  The following article appeared in a North Carolina newspaper on June 30 last.  “Harnett County received a visitor this month with a unique connection to the County’s history. James Harnett toured a portion of Harnett County along with his daughter, Niamh, as part of a visit to the County that shares his family’s name. Harnett is from Abbeyfeale in County Limerick, Ireland, and was visiting the United States for the first time to surprise his friend, Noel Lyons, who lives in Cary, for the 25th anniversary of Lyon’s company, McGill Environmental Systems of North Carolina. Harnett introduced Lyons to his lead business partner nearly three decades ago. While he was in the Triangle, Harnett decided to visit neighboring Harnett County. He said he learned of Harnett County’s existence several years ago while researching the Harnett name. Harnett said there are hundreds of people who have the Harnett name in County Limerick and the surrounding area, more than anywhere else in the world. “I’ve always been fascinated by why the Harnett name is so strong in this small area of Ireland,” he said.  In 2012, he organized the Harnett Reunion Weekend Clan Gathering, a Harnett family reunion of sorts. A commemorative magazine was published for the occasion. During his visit, Harnett donated a copy of the magazine, which includes notable stories of the Harnett family as well as information about Harnett County, N.C., and the County’s namesake, Cornelius Harnett.While researching for the reunion, Harnett also learned about Cornelius Harnett, whose father was a merchant and immigrated to the Americas from Dublin, Ireland.  Harnett said he was interested in finding out whether he might be related to Cornelius Harnett, but many of Ireland’s records were destroyed during the Easter Rising, a rebellion that took place during Easter Week, April 1916.  Nonetheless, Harnett said he was fascinated to learn about Cornelius Harnett and Harnett County and wanted to stop in while he was nearby. While he was here, he visited Lillington Town Hall, the Harnett County Courthouse and County Administration Building, and he had his first Southern breakfast at Sweet Magnolia in Downtown Lillington. Harnett also visited the Harnett County Public Library to present the County with a copy of the Harnett Reunion Commemorative Magazine. Interim Harnett County Library Director Angela McCauley said she was honored and delighted by Harnett’s visit and the donation to the library. She said the magazine will be added to the library’s collection as a reference item in the local history room. “We are most grateful for Mr. Harnett’s book donation,” said McCauley. “He offered interesting facts and details about the Harnett family and his enthusiasm made it clear that he and other family members are quite dedicated to their heritage and family roots, and they have pride in the Harnett name. “Harnett said he was impressed by his visit to the United States and Harnett County, both by the vastness and natural beauty of the land and the friendliness of the people. “People have been welcoming everywhere we’ve gone,” he said. “Everyone takes the time to talk to you.”

NIGHT AT THE DOGS:  Fr Casey’s GAA Fundraising Night at the Dogs will take place on Saturday, August 13 at Limerick Greyhound Stadium.  .All proceeds in aid of field development.  Your support will be greatly appreciated.

FEALE FIT NEWS:  Dublin City Marathon Training every Saturday morning @ 8.30am.Well done to all Fealefit & St Ita’s Ac members that took part in events over the weekend!  Fealefit are taking part in Adare to Survive this year and fundraising for the ‘ Community Crisis Support team ‘If you’re interested in joining us register at Adare to Survive & join team Fealefit!All  Fealefit event training is free of charge and open to all levels of fitness,if you wish join us at any event please contact us…see www.Fealefit.com for all details on training & Upcoming events or Contact Shane 087 2891015 Kadie 087 7771552

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, August 5 at 9.30pm. All are welcome to come along and join in the singing, tell a story, or just listen to the performers.

SEISIÚN:  The Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann sponsored traditional entertainment programme for the summer season has started.  Thursday nights at the Devon Inn Templeglantine a host of musicians, singers and dancers combine to present a top class show of Irish traditional entertainment for visitors and locals alike. Towards the end of the night, time is allowed for audience participation.  The Templeglantine Seisiún takes plac at 8.45pm.  There is also one in Rockchapel on Tuesday nights.

COURSE IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT:  A course in personal development runs one evening a week from September to May and seven Saturdays or Sundays through the year in Tralee, Killarney and Limerick.  It is organised by SHEP (The social and health education project).  For further information contact Helen O’Grady 085 8626844.

BOXING TOURNAMENT AT VIKING BOXING CLUB:  First annual Tournament at the premises in Colbert’s Terrace on Sunday, July 24.  Admission €5. 15 fights on the day, weigh in 12 noon.  Refreshments available. Contact Noel 087 4360339.  Denis 087 7614462.

FAITH CAMP:  St Ita’s Catholic Camp for boys & girls aged between 5-12

years takes place from Tuesday, August 2 – Friday, August 5 in St. Mary’s N.S. from 10am -3pm.  Cost €40 for first child & € 20 per additional child in family. Activities include Art, drama, Music, Sport, faith teaching. Tel Martina 087/2788834 Lorraine 086/3765751 for more information and registration form.

SAGART PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES:  A five day pilgrimage to Lourdes will travel to Lourdes on September 22 and return on September 27.  Further information from Canon John O’Shea or Fr. Joe Foley.

LAUNCH NIGHT FOR CHARITY CYCLE: PRO Maria Woulfe has been in touch with the news that Abbeyfeale Cycling Club (ACC) will be hosting a launch for their first charity cycle at Leens Hotel on Friday, July 15.  Junior Minister for Sport Patrick O’Donovan will be present to hear details of the planned 60Km and 110Km routes around the surrounding parishes.  This first cycle will be in aid of St Gabriel’s School in Limerick and will take place on Sunday, August 14.

REMEMBERING ZOE RELAY RUN TO DUBLIN:  Runners wanted for a once in lifetime experience.  The Remembering Zoë Relay run to Dublin for Make a Wish Foundation will take place over the August bank holiday weekend July 29 – July 31.

Day 1: Abbeyfeale – Castleisland – Killarney – Macroom – Cork City – Fermoy – 170km

Day 2: Fermoy – Mitchelstown – Cahir – Clonmel – Kilkenny – Carlow – 161km

Day 3: Carlow – Castledermot – Newbridge – Naas – Rathcoole – Leopards town – 120kmIf interested in taking part or helping in any way on Day1,2 ,3  or on the 3 days please let us know.

TIDY TOWNS COMPETITION:  The Tidy Towns Committee would like to inform everyone that the judging panel for the Tidy Towns Competition are expected to visit Abbeyfeale within the next few weeks and we ask that everyone do whatever they can to help brighten up the town through cleaning, painting and displaying of plants and flowers etc. Anything that would help the town be seen in a better light would be such a help.  Members of the committee meet in the Square every Wednesday evening from 7pm for an hour and along with the Tus staff are responsible for the resplendent display of roses, pots and tubs around the town.

ADAPT:  Help is only a phone call away at 1800 200 504.  Women can meet a Support Worker from ADAPT in Abbeyfeale or Newcastle West to chat and look at options in their particular situation.  See www.adaptservices.ie or adapt domestic abuse services on Facebook for more information.

COMMUNITY ALERT:  Do not, under any circumstances, return missed calls on your mobile unless you know who they are from. If they want you badly enough they will ring you again.  There is a scam on the go where if you return calls you get connected to a premium number and your credit is drained.  If you have a bill pay phone you could get charged up to €40 on your next bill.   The latest scam is the call you get with instructions to turn on the computer so that the ‘Vodaphone technician’ can fix your slow internet connection.  If you have the misfortune to follow instructions then your computer will have a virus implanted and it will cost you hard earned money to have it removed.

PILGRIMAGE:  3 day Pilgrimage to Knock and Lough Derg from August 22- 24.  All in package includes visit to Knock, day retreat on Lough Derg, Coach for 3 days, Breakfasts, Evening meals and Accommodation in Bundoran. Early booking is advised due to waiting lists from previous pilgrimage in May. Deposit secures booking. Contact Cormac O’Connor Coach Tours on 023-8849196, 087-6167835 for further details.

ARE YOU IN CRISIS:  There are several organizations who will help if you are under pressure and these include the newly formed West Limerick Crisis Intervention Team who can be reached on 085 1777631, the Mind Our Farm Families is a dedicated suicide and self-harm phone line 1890 130 022 between IFA and Pieta House.  The phone line for IFA members will put farmers and their families in direct contact with a Pieta House trained therapist.  Then there is the Samaritans on free call 116 123.

FREE 6 WEEK COURSE:  A free 6 week course run on a Stress-Strain-Coping model will take place in the West Limerick area shortly for people who are affected by someone else’s’ substance misuse.  Further information from Mags Dillon Community Substance Misuse Team 086 4141890 or [email protected]

CARE OF OLDER PERSON COURSE:  Family Carers Ireland are providing the QQI Level 5 Care of the older person module on September 7 in Limerick, this will be the first module off the Full QQI Healthcare Award.  To express an interest contact the training unit on 0579370221.

AA:  Narcotics Anonymous meet on Monday evenings in the parish office.  AL Anon meet there every Tuesday evening and AA meet there on Wednesday afternoons at 3pm, Friday evenings at 8pm and Sunday mornings at 10am.

RELIG IDE NAOFA GRAVEYARD CLEAN UP:  The clean-up has started and will take place every Tuesday evening from 7-8pm.  Every family with a grave there is asked to give just one hour a week to keep the graveyard pristine.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH NOTES: Parish office 11-1pm Tuesday-Friday 068 31133. +Parish Support Worker 068/31019. Counselling Appointment 061/314213.Church 068/51915, Canon John O’Shea P.P.:  Tel: 068 – 31157 : 087 – 9708282, 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:  Wednesday 10am   Paddy,& Hannah McCarthy, Dromtrasna  and their daughters Mai, Kitty & sons Anthony,    Ted & Dan.  Saturday 11am Michael & Billy Broderick and deceased family members.

7pm Tommy, Margaret, Helen, Norann & Mai Leahy, New Street.   Moss & Lily Colbert, New Street.   Jeremiah Moriarty.  Sunday 9.30am Patrick O’Connor, Mountmahon.  12noon Mary Lane Meenkilly

Log onto www.churchservices.tv/abbeyfealeparish. for the church webcam.  A direct link from the parish website has been set up.  You are asked to use car parking spaces in the Church car park before you start parking in the middle of the yard.

AIR SHOW:  ”Foynes Air Show takes place this Sunday, July 17 from 1pm – 6pm. Aircraft displays from across Europe, live music, food stalls, children’s entertainment & lots more. Park and Ride services available throughout the event.”  A great family day out.

TOP TWENTY IRISH FAMILY NAMES; Here’s the top 20 family names in Ireland according to Irish Central.1. Murphy2. Kelly3. Byrne 4. Ryan 5. O’Brien 6. Walsh 7. O’Sullivan 8. O’Connor 9. Doyle 10. McCarthy 11. O’Neill 12. Lynch 13. O’Reilly 14. Dunne 15. McDonagh 16. Brennan 17. Fitzgerald 18. Daly 19. Kavanagh 20. Nolan

SUMMER RETREAT IN ARDFERT:  Bishop Donal Murray will conduct a retreat from Monday July 18- Saturday, July 23 in Ardfert Retreat Centre. Contact Ardfert Retreat Centre for details.

CLERICAL CHANGES FOR THE DIOCESE ANNOUNCED:  The evolving clerical landscape, including the emergence of ‘teams of priests’, in response to the fall-off in vocations has been evidenced in 2016 clerical changes by Bishop Brendan Leahy.The changes show the increased movement towards ‘teams of priests’ operating across a number of parishes, a shift very much signalled at the 2016 Limerick Diocesan Synod held in April.In addition to the clerical changes announced (full list below), Bishop Leahy has also appointed Canon Tony Mullins as Vicar General and Canon Donough O’Malley, who has retired as Parish Priest of St. Mary’s, as Chancellor of the Diocese.  This will see him take over some of the canonical duties of Fr. Paul Finnerty, who has taken up the post of Vice Rector of the Irish College in Rome.Announcing the changes, Bishop Leahy said that while the move towards ‘teams of priests’ is inevitable, there will be no change for parish structures or identity. “We have been saying for a number of years that we have to adapt for the fall-off in vocations and so far the changes we have implemented have managed this new landscape very well. We have teams of priests working across different parishes and while this means we won’t necessarily have a priest living in every parish, there will be a PP for every parish. “This enables us to retain the identity of a parish.  The parish still has the service of a priest, its parish council, finance committee, etc.  But its Parish Priest could also be Parish Priest for a neighboring parish. “The new landscape, he said, will be accompanied by greater lay involvement and that this was very much prescribed at the Diocesan Synod in April.  “One of the key reasons for holding our Synod was to look at how we can deliver the pastoral care going forward that the people of our diocese need and want as well as dealing with the reality of having less priests. “The 400 Synod delegates very much instructed us that the way forward in terms of leadership in the diocese would be a combination of priests and laity.  The need for greater lay involvement was very much declared by delegates and welcomed by the diocese and the fall-off in vocations means that this will not only be desirable but inevitable. “One proposal, which was strongly supported, at the Synod even suggested we would establish a Team Ministry Structure in each Pastoral Area, while delegates also believed that more supports should be given to foster and encourage more lay people, either individually or in pastoral councils, to come forward and get involved in leadership roles.”  Canon Tony Mullins to be Vicar General in succession to Msgr. Dan Neenan who has retired from that position. Canon Tony Mullins to be Parish Priest of the parishes of Abbeyfeale and Athea and ministering in the Pastoral Area of Íde Naofa.Canon Donough O’Malley to be Chancellor of the Diocese.Canon Donough O’Malley to retire as Parish Priest of St. Mary’s and to be appointed to assist the team of priests serving the parishes of St. Joseph’s, St. Saviour’s and Our Lady of Lourdes, along with his duties as Chancellor.Canon John O’Shea to be Parish Priest of Raheen parish and ministering in the Pastoral Area of Pobal NeasáinFr. Tom Coughlan to retire as Parish Priest of Effin/Garrienderk parish and to be appointed to assist the team of priests serving the parishes of Kilmallock, Effin/Garrienderk, Bulgaden and Martinstown.Fr. Paddy Bowen to retire as Parish Priest of Athea and to be appointed to minister in the Cathedral Pastoral Area.Fr. Michael Noonan to be Parish Priest of Ardagh and Carrickerry and linked to the team of priests serving the parishes in Our Lady’s Pastoral Area (Newcastle West). Fr. Tim Curtin to continue as Parish Priest of Coolcappa/Kilcolman and ministering in the Pastoral Area of Tobar Phádraigh/Knockpatrick.Fr. Willie Walsh to be Parish Priest of the Parishes of Rockhill/Bruree and Ballyagran/Colmanswell and linked to the team of priests serving in the Pobal Mocheallóig Pastoral Area (Kilmallock).

Fr. Des McAuliffe to be Parish Priest of Our Lady of the Rosary Parish and ministering in the Thomond Pastoral.  Fr. Derek Leonard to be PP of St. Mary’s Parish (along with his current duties as Parish Priest of St. Nicholas’) and member of the team of priests serving the parishes of St. Mary’s and St. Nicholas.  Fr. Seán Harmon to be member of the team of priests serving the parishes of St. Mary’s and St. Nicholas.  Fr. Michael Hanley to be member of the team of priests serving the parishes of St. Mary’s and St. Nicholas. Fr. Damian Ryan to be Parish Priest of Fedamore (along with his current duties as Parish Priest of Manister).  Fr. Liam Enright to be Parish Priest of Rathkeale and ministering in the Pastoral Area of Curraghchase/Naomh Mhuire.  Fr. Michael O’Shea to be Parish Priest of the parishes of Kilfinane, Glenroe/Ballyorgan and Ardpatrick.  Fr. John McCarthy to be Parish Priest of Dromin/Athlacca and ministering in the Maigue Pastoral Area.  Fr. Richard Keane to be temporary Administrator of St. Saviour’s.

AN TIONAD GLAS SUMMER OPEN DAY:  Sunday, July 17 from 2-6pm.  All welcome, free admission.  Tours of gardens and tunnels.  Information on organic courses and bee keeping.  Market stalls, An Siopa Glas, Teas and Coffee.

TRÓCAIRE is launching an Emergency Appeal to the Irish public to raise money for the dire situation in East and Southern Africa and in countries in Central America. Severe droughts are affecting these areas and are devastating food production. Please donate to Trócaire’s Emergency Appeal now – online at trocaire.org/donate or by calling 1850 408 408.

GRAVEYARD MASS IN SPRINGMOUNT:  Thursday, July 28 at 8pm.

SINGING CLUB The Munster Fleadh Singing Club will take place in the Seanchaí Centre on Friday July 15 and Saturday July 16 from 9 pm.  Admission is free and all are welcome along to sing a song.

SAGART PILGRIMAGE 2016:  Why not travel with the Sagart Pilgrimage.  Bus leaving Abbeyfeale to Shannon Airport on Thursday, September 22. Arriving in Lourdes for 5 nights and returning on Tuesday, September 27 in this the Year of Mercy. Cost €719   Contact Fr John or Fr Joe or the Office.

SOCIAL DANCING CLASSES IN BALLYHAHILL:  Summer dancing classes every Monday night in the Community Centre with Seamus 8.30pm – 10.30pm.  All welcome.

MAUREEN IS OFF AGAIN; Day Trip on Sunday, July 17, leaving NCW at 8.30am. for the Ring of Kerry and the Sheep Dog Trials on the farm.  We will be stopping for our usual hearty breakfast at the River Island Hotel and returning again in the evening where we will be spoilt for choice dinner menu.  We will pick up in Abbeyfeale at the bus stop just outside the Church.  This is a very popular trip and the seats will be filled very quickly we already have a number of seats booked so early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.  Contact Maureen 087 9845102.

HORTICULTURE/ORGANIC GROWING: If you are interested in growing we are now open for full-time and Part-time applicants. QQI Level 5 Certificate in Horticulture: This full time course runs from September to May. Students taking this course learn by taking part in the daily routine on the holding, attending lectures given by tutors and experienced Food producers.  QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Horticulture: This full time course runs from September to September. Learners apply the skills gained at Level 5 to take responsibility and control of the entire production process relating to an Organic Horticultural Enterprise.   Contact details: An tIonad Glas, Dromcollogher 06383604 or [email protected] for further information or application form.

THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY’S VOLUNTEER DRIVER SERVICE:  The service is currently seeking volunteer drivers to drive local patients to and from their chemotherapy treatments in Tralee General Hospital, Cork, University Hospital & the Mercy University Hospital, Cork. We are looking for volunteers to pick local patients up at their homes, drive them to the door of the hospital, and pick them up again when they are finished their treatment and bring them home. Driver expenses are paid.  Telephone Rebecca on 01 2316 642 or email [email protected]

RAMBLING HOUSES:  Jim Lyons’s Rambling House in Knockalougha is held on the third Tuesday of each month.  Ita Mc Quinn has a Rambling House on the second Monday of the month in Monagea.  I’ve recently been told about another Rambling House held in Sandpit House near Millstreet on the first Tuesday of each month but check out the details first before travelling there.