community

PROLOGUE:  “Just when the caterpillar thought her life was over, she began to fly.”
Author Unknown

DEATHS:  Sincere sympathy is offered to the family of the late Kathleen O’Donnell, Upr Purt who was laid to rest on Tuesday and to the family of Catherine Colbert Abbeyfeale and O’Connell House, NCW whose funeral took place last week.    Sincere sympathy is also offered to the Mc Carthy family Duagh on the death of Nell  Burns nee Kelliher of Nottingham and late of Derindaffe Duagh, a Mass will be held for her in Duagh in the near future.  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.

BLUE TOKENS FOR HONDURAS MISSION:  We wish to thank the local Tesco store for the generous cheque for €325.91 received from the blue token collection.  Thank you to all of you who supported it.  Bishop Micheal Lenihan continues his work in Honduras and is looking forward to seeing you all in 2017.

ACTIVE RETIREMENT:  The next meeting of the active retirement group will be on Wednesday, October 12 at 2pm in the Adult Education Centre (the Old Tech), Mountmahon.

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.

FILM 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.

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.

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.

1916:  There is an Exhibition currently running in Abbeyfeale Library displaying work by a class based in Abbeyfeale Education Centre.

AMERICAN TEA PARTY:  The annual fundraising American Tea Party held in the Community Centre, Rockchapel takes place this year on Friday, October 21.  Further information from Breda O’Connell O’Callaghan on 0876818113.

TIDY TOWN RESULTS:  We are absolutely delighted to announce our fantastic success in this year’s Tidy Towns Competition, having increased our score by an impressive 13 points! We increased our performance in all categories; Community Development & Planning, where our volunteers and Tus worker were praised. Built Environment and Streetscape; we were praised for the good maintenance of our lovely Church, Public Library and Garda Station. Landscaping and Open Spaces; our town was described as beautiful with its colourful flowers displayed, the seating areas in the Square and the attractive street furniture. We increased our score by 5 in Wildlife, Habitats and Natural Amenities with our town park referred to as ‘a magnificent recreational amenity space with its duck pond, walking trail and picnic area facilities, children’s play area and Fairy Garden, new Reflective Garden with its Light on Stone project and new WC facilities’. We increased our results in Sustainable Waste and Resource Management with recognition given to the dedicated work done by our local pupils and teachers for achieving Green Flag status.  We also scored well for Tidiness and Litter Control, Residential Streets and Housing Areas, Approach Roads, Streets and Lanes.
Finally, we would not have achieved these marks and praises without the help of our dedicated volunteers and TUS worker who give of their free time in order to keep our town looking fabulous. Well done to one and all; your efforts are very much appreciated.” Taken from Tidy Town Facebook page.

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.

:  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.

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.

ARE YOU PARENTING ALONE OR A SEPARATED PARENT:Come & Join Us For Tea & Chat in Rathkeale House Hotel on Thursday, November 10 from 10.30-12.30pm.  All Welcome!!!! Further Information:  Maria 086 0620596, Mary 086 3514700, Enda 083 1949882.

COMHAIRLE NA NÓG:  Second level students across Limerick are invited to Comhairle na nÓg’s AGM at the University of Limerick on Thursday, October 27 from 9-3pm.The AGM offers students an opportunity to learn about the role of Comhairle na nÓg, speak with current and past members and debate issues that are relevant to them, with this year’s AGM focusing on the classroom environment.
Under the title ‘Classroom Participation-Developing New Practices To Improve Our Education,’ students will discuss ways to enhance the classroom experience, from student teaching interaction to class discussions.The AGM promises to be an exciting and informative event with a diverse array of workshops and activities planned.  One of over thirty nationwide, Limerick Comhairle na nÓg (youth council) gives a voice to young people allowing them to influence government policy at a local and national level.  In the past Comhairle na nÓg has addressed issues such as youth homelessness, living in Direct Provision, bullying and the teaching of sexual education in the secondary schools.For more information or to reserve your space please contact John Real at [email protected] or 087-2626816.

BEREAVEMENT INFORMATION EVENING:  An evening for bereaved parents will take place in Milford Care Centre on Monday, October 17 from 7-9pm.  This is an opportunity for parents to hear from an experienced bereavement professional about the many challenges their family may face and is open to all parents regardless of the age of the child who died.

DIABLO:  A play about human trafficking in Ireland will be staged in The Halla, Mary Immaculate College on Wednesday, October 19.  Tickets €10.  Trafficking can encompass sex trafficking, forced labour, bonded labour and the illegal harvesting of organs from both children and adults and is happening in Ireland as well as all over the European Union . Further information from Mariaam Bhatti at [email protected]  061-310328 or Catherine Ryan at [email protected] 061-229773.

BENNY THADE’S RAMBLING HOUSE:  The newest addition to the Rambling House scene is hosted by WL102fm Country and Irish DJ Benny Thade McCarthy in Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse on the 3rd. Thursday of the month.

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 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 up and get their point across at meetings?  Further information from 087 7972855 or check out our Facebook page.

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.

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

LIMERICK MENTAL HEALTH WEEK:  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.  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.

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: Thursday 10am Mai Flynn, Main St.  No Mass Friday evening.  Saturday 7pm Tim and Maureen O’Connor, Fealesbridge, Ray Stryker Killmanahan. Mary Ann Moloney The Hill.  Sunday 9.30am Theresa Fitzgerald Dromtrasna.  Mary Nelligan Collins’ Park and Tommy and Elis Nelligan.  12 noon Tom and Joan Murphy Ballaugh, Noneen Byrne, Des Hughes and Kathleen Hughes Months Mind.

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 at 8pm.  Tickets are available from 094 9388100 or online from www. Ticketmaster.ie  and cost €25.50/€35.50.    This sacred concert brings together choirs from around the world, Italian singers and Irish musicians for a unique musical experience.

HOPE FOR DUAGH: Daniel McAuliffe, Foildarrig is organising a 10k run/walk in Duagh on Sunday, October 16 at 9.30am in aid of the Hope foundation. Your support would be greatly appreciated, registration at the national school from 8.30 – 9.15am,  entry fee €10.00 – finisher’s medals for all runners. Light refreshments after.  Find us on Facebook “hope for Duagh” for more information.

CHARLIE BIRD SPEAKS ON THE MISSIONS : To celebrate Mission month, the Diocese of Kerry is hosting an evening on Monday, October 17 in The Rose Hotel, Tralee at 8pm . Charlie Bird will speak of his visit to missionary projects and Caroline Reid, Irish Refugee Council, will address Ireland’s response to the global refugee crisis. Entrance is free and all are welcome

MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGE ex Cork to Mostar (40 mins from Medjugorje) May 31- June 7, 2017. Spiritual 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.