PROLOGUE: "Strength is the capacity to break a chocolate bar into four pieces with your bare hands — and then eat just one of the pieces."
Judith Viorst .
WEDDING BELLS: Congratulations to Lisa Healy, daughter of Neilus and Mary Jo, Hill Road who married Alan Kelly, Newcastlewest last Saturday. We wish them a long happy life together.
SUE RYDER CHARITY SHOP: Manager Maria Moloney reports “Starting today, buy one and get one free. We are proud to offer this fantastic deal on all our clothing. Buy one item and get the second (same price or under) absolutely free. We continue to stock a fantastic summer selection at already rock bottom prices. Our books are still just €1.We are hoping to have school uniforms on sale by the middle of August, so if you have any that are too small or are no longer needed for your child, we would be grateful for all uniform donations.
I would like to thank all the Sue Ryder wonderful volunteers for continuing to give up their precious time to help in the shop especially during the lovely weather we have been getting.
Thank you too, to our fantastic customers who not only purchase from our shop but also make donations for sale or for recycling. Enjoy the rest of the Summer!
TOURNAFULLA FOOD AND CRAFT FAIR: PRO Helen Broderick writes “The Annual Food and Craft Fair and Fun Day takes place on Sunday next, August 3 at 2pm in the GAA pitch, Tournafulla. It promises to be a wonderful day of entertainment for all ages. For children, there’s a magic show, book and toy stall, competition for " Best Dressed Vegetable" and "Garden on a plate", novelty sports day, and much more. For adults there’s an array of food and craft stands, a hospitality marquee serving teas, coffees and niceties, home baking stand, BBQ burgers, competition for best "home brew" art displays, and much more. The children of the local Comhaltas branch will take to the stage and play for the crowds, as will adult musicians. Paddy Quilligan and his band will play in the evening time. This year, funds raised will go to the local C.C.E club who continue to subsidise music classes for its pupils. The GAA’s special guest, Micheal O Muircheartaigh will draw the winning ticket for a brand new Ford Fiesta, Tickets on sale on the day for the car and a selection of other prizes including; 2nd €3,000, 3rd and 4th €1000, 5th and 6th €500, 7th,8th, 9th and 10th €250. Come along and enjoy the Festive atmosphere at Tournafulla, and support your local community. You may even drive home in a new car!!
POPE FRANCIS CALLS FOR PRAYERS: On Sunday, July 20 Pope Francis called on all the faithful to pray for Christians fleeing the Iraqi city of Mosul, and to “persevere in
Prayer” for those situations of tension and conflict that continue in different parts of the world, especially in the Middle East and in the Ukraine”. Remember a prayer for neighbours of other faith traditions who are sheltering their Christian friends during these dark days in Iraq, Syria and the Middle East. Please encourage your children and godchildren, parents and godparentsto pray for those who do not enjoy religious freedom, a good night’s
sleep or the comforts which we take for granted.
YOUNG ADULT HOLY HOUR: A Holy Hour on Tuesday, August 12 @ 6pm for Youths
All are welcome. Music will be included in the hour. This will be a lovely hour of prayer and music for young adults so encourage your family members to attend.
LESSONS: Lessons on concertina and fiddle from beginners to advanced with Lisa. Contact 087 3182574.
LOCAL CHARITIES NOMINATED TO SHARE IN €1,000 WINDFALL: Tesco are changing the way they donate to charity. Instead of giving the money to one national charity, they are now going to donate €1000 every 6 weeks to local charities. 3 local charities will be nominated and for 6 weeks the customers of Tesco will be able to support these charities. After the 6 weeks is up the money is split between the 3 charities according to the amount of tokens that each charity receives. There are forms at Customer Service desk in Tesco Stores where the public can nominate charities to be put forward for the next 6 weeks. The 3 charities nominated for the first 6 weeks here in Abbeyfeale are: The Butterfly Club, Abbeyfeale District Search and Rescue and St. Ita’s Day Care Centre. Every time you shop in Tesco you get a token and then it is up to you to decide which charity gets your token. The containers are displayed behind the tills at the store.
ORDINATION CONGRATULATIONS: Our congratulations to the Rev David Casey from Limerick city who was ordained priest in St John’s Cathedral recently.
HERITAGE BUS TOUR: A West Limerick Heritage Bus Tour of Rathkeale, Ardagh, and Foynes, will be held on Saturday, August 16 commencing at 11am, until 5.15pm approximately. The tour will be led by local people with an in-depth knowledge of the areas and the stories associated with them. Booking is essential as limited seats are available and the cost is € 5 per seat. Contact Suzanne on 069-79114 or email westlimerickheritage The project is funded by Limerick City of Culture and supported by West Limerick Resources.
PARISH OUTING: Would you be interested in going to the Annual Fair in Kenmare on Friday August 15 or would you prefer a shorter trip around by the Estuary. If enough people contact Peg on 087 2276827/068 31789 by Thursday, August 6 to confirm that they would travel then she will book a bus. The parish outing will not take place unless people confirm that they will travel.
SEAN NOS DANCING: Someone got in touch recently wondering if there would be interest in Athea for holding beginner Sean Nos Dancing classes in Con Colbert Memorial Hall in September for both children and adults. There is a great tradition of dancing in Athea and an increased appreciation of Sean Nos dancing throughout the country in recent times. If interested please call or text 0879042477. Classes will only take place if there is enough interest!
ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH NOTES: Loving God, help us to know how to encourage and support each other so that we can respond generously to our baptismal call. Help us to foster a
culture of vocations in our family and parish so that each will respond to the call to serve you. 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. Mass Tuesday – Saturday at 10am except in the event of a funeral when Mass is 11am. Mass Monday at 7pm, Mass on Saturday 11am followed by Confessions, Vigil Mass 7pm, Sunday 9.30am and 12 noon. Mass Intentions: Wed 8.15 am Betty Fitzgerald, Dromtrasna
Wednesday 10am Margaret & Con Flynn, Main Street. Thursday 10am Hanny and Paddy McCarthy, sons Ted, Dan & Anthony and daughter Mai & Kitty Dromtrasna. Saturday 11am John Healy, 3 Collins Park. Intentions for next weekend Saturday7pm Luke Scannell, Clash.
Moss & Lily Colbert, New Street. Sunday 9.30am Madge Woulfe, Kilconlea, Bridie Harnett Purt. 12noon Mossie Noble O’Connor and parents. Danny O’Connor, Grogeen.St Anthony Novena takes place each Monday at the 7pm evening Mass. Adoration on Tuesday and Friday from 8am – 10pm and on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 6-8pm. Confessions on Thursday after the 10am Mass. It is now the responsibility of family members and relatives, if they require a visit, to let the priest know when people are in hospital.
VOLUNTEERING: “Make a difference in the lives of others…and change your own life forever”Since 1960, Viatores Christi has aimed to respond to needs overseas and at home by giving people an opportunity to share their lives and skills with those in need.
People from all backgrounds and professions join VC – people who want to challenge themselves to make a difference in the world, however big or small.
If you want to explore such a challenge, and you are interested in learning more, please come along to our Volunteering Information Session in Limerick on Saturday,August 16 at 12.00pm in the St. Augustine’s Church Hall, O’Connell Street, Limerick. To find out more, email colin call 01-8689986 or visit http://viatoreschristi.com/events/ http://viatoreschristi.com/volunteer/vacancies/
‘THERE’S NO BUSINESS LIKE SHOW BUSINESS’: The Glorach Youth Theatre put on their annual summer show last week under Director Orla Leahy. It was very well attended and a credit to all the young people who took part.
ST. ITA’S FAITH CAMP: The camp takes place this week at the Boys N.S.
HUMOUR: What has Garth Brooks and the Limerick football team in common? Neither will play Croke Park this year. (Overheard in Fealesbridge Creamery)
DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO ROME: A very special Diocesan Pilgrimage to Rome
has been planned for this autumn to commemorate St John Paul II’s visit to Limerick and to attend the Beatification of Pope Paul VI. It will be led by Bishop Brendan Leahy from October 18-22 next and will cost €770 per person sharing. Tour organizers Cultural Connections Ltd In association with: Tom Mannion Travel T.A. 0178 IATA, ITAA. (Cultural Connections Ltd. Newtown, Rahan, Tullamore, Co. Offaly, Ireland Phone grouptravel)
SEISIÚN IN TEMPLEGLANTINE: Comhaltas Seisiún show at the Devon Inn each Thursday night at 9.00pm during July and August. The show consists of top quality music, song, dance and story provided by a talented group of artistes, many of whom are from Abbeyfeale and several of whom have won All Ireland honours. The traditional show is aimed at both locals and visitors and is very enjoyable. Towards the end of the programme of entertainment there is an informal segment members of the audience perform if they so wish or join in a Siege of Ennis. All are welcome. This is the place to bring your visitors for a memorable night out.
SEANCHAI CENTRE: Listowel Rambling House will take place on Thursday, July 31in the Seanchaí Centre, The Square from 9.15 pm. Admission free to this evening of traditional Irish music, song, dance & storytelling and all are welcome.
PILGRIMAGE TO MEDJUGORJE: October11-18/18-25. Seven nights B&B, flight and airport transport costs €450. Contact (01)4434510 / (048)82241888 or noelle. Visit website:www.med-irishcentre.com
FOR GOOD WEATHER: All – powerful and ever-living God, we find security in your care and love for us. Give us the fine weather we pray for and need. May the harvest be secured and the hard work and efforts of so many of our people come to fruition. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
CHARITY CEILI: : Deirdre and Teresa Lenihan wish to thank everyone who attended the Charity Ceili in Knockaderry Resource Centre on Friday night last. A total of €1,225 was raised for the Irish Cancer Society. A huge thank you to the Striolan Ceili band who played superb music as always.
LIVING LITERATURE: The Seanchaí Centre, Listowel has started its ‘Living Literature’ drama performances as part of the tour of the Kerry Writers’ Museum. Performances will take place every Wednesday, Thursday & Friday at 12 noon & 2 pm during July & August. For more information tel. info.
REILIG IDE NAOFA: Clean ups of the graveyard are held every Tuesday from 7-9pm weather permitting. Annual Mass will take place on Thursday, August 21. Candles will be on sale. Please inform family members.
DANCING/SIGHTSEEING WEEKEND: Staying in The Yeats County Hotel, Rosses Point, Sligo from Friday, October 17-20. For more information and booking contact Maureen 087 9845102.
LEADERS REQUIRED: Barnardos Children’s Charity are looking for Team Leaders to help coordinate collections for Barnardos throughout Limerick on Friday September 19th and help raise €100,000 for disadvantaged children and their families in communities around Ireland.
For more information contact Sarah on 1850 222 300 or email fundraising
MID-WEEK TRIP TO CARLOW/ KILKENNY; Thomond Historical & Archaeological Society will travel to Carlow/Kilkenny from Monday, September 8 until Thursday, September 11. The trip includes 3 night’s Bed and Breakfast and 3 evening meals at Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny. Highlights of the trip to include visits to Callan, Kells, Jerpoint, Borris House, Huntingdon Castle, Duckett’s Grove, Tullow Museum, tour of Carlow town, Kilkenny Castle, St., Canice’s Cathedral, and much more. — Organiser Pat O’Donovan – info Co. Limerick, +353 6962713.
REGISTER FOR 10k: Now in it’s in 3rd year the Curragh-Chase 10k Run/Walk takes place on Sunday, August 17 in conjunction with the Children’s Ark Unit, Limerick University Hospital. This event continues to be one of Munster’s most popular and scenic 10K’s! We have sports packs as well as many promotional offers from our Sponsors for the first 500 registered! You can avail of these offers and be part of one of Munster’s most picturesque 10K’s by going to Kilcornan.com or eventmaster.ie and register now.
THE REBUILT CONFERENCE: This conference takes place Wednesday, September 10, and Thursday, September 11 in Maynooth College, Co Kildare. Fr. Michael White and lay associate Tom Corcoran authors of "Rebuilt: Awakening the Faithful, Reaching the Lost, and Making Church Matter and Tools for Rebuilding: 75 Really, Really Practical Ways to Make Your Parish Better", present the compelling and inspiring story of how they brought their parish back to life. ‘Rebuilt’ is a story of stopping everything and changing focus. The result tripled their weekend Mass attendance, yielded increased giving, flourishing ministries, and a vibrant, spiritual revival. You are invited to share the vision, borrow their strategies, and receive a wealth of guidance on how to rebuild your own parishes. Evening Session – September 10from 7.30p.m. – 9.00p.m.’The Rebuilt Story’. Day Session – September 11| 10.00a.m. – 4.15p.m. ‘Tools for Rebuilding’, ‘An Irish Case Study” Planning for Rebuilding’.
Further information on http://www.alphayouth.ie/upcoming-events/2014/6/30/the-re-built-conference
FREE PHONE NUMBER LAUNCHED: A new free phone number has been launched for the Samaritans in Ireland. It is 116123.
YOUTH 2000 SUMMER FESTIVAL: Takes place at the Cistercian College, Roscrea, Tipperary from Thursday 14—Sunday 17 August. It’s an opportunity not to be missed for young people to experience the Roman Catholic faith and meet new people.
For more information and to book online see www.yough2000.ie or phone 01/6753690 .
ABUSE OF STIMUNANTS: For support around drug and alcohol use the HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline is available Monday to Friday, 9.30am and 5.30pm. This confidential service has both a freephone Helpline helpline).
SAGART PILGRIMAGE: The 21st Anniversary of the Sagart Pilgrimage to Lourdes takes place on September 22 for five nights and costs €715. Contact Fr John O’Shea or the Sacristy.
WLR ON FACEBOOK; West Limerick Resources has launched its own Facebook page. If you would like to be kept up to date with our on-going activities and upcoming events please follow us at https://www.facebook.com/WestLimerickResources. Alternatively visit our website www.wlr.ie
CERTIFICATE IN SPIRITUALITY: Ardfert Retreat Centre will be running a Certificate in Spirituality this autumn. It is designed for adults to share the Word of God in family life, Parish life and the wider community. On successful completion of the course, the participants will have a deeper understanding of their own faith and a willingness to share it with others.
LOUGH DERG: Daily boats to the Island from 10.30am – 3:00pm 7 days a week until August 13. No booking necessary. Further info contact info
MAUREEN’S DAY TRIPS: On Sunday, August 10, if there are sufficient people interested we will travel to see Ireland’s largest one day show – The Tullamore Show- leaving NCW at 8.am sharp. There are over 600 stands to visit plus lots more. Early booking is advised. Contact Maureen 087 9845102.
RURAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE: The service provides information on training & education opportunities and support in creating a career plan. You can contact Dearbhla or Finn in the Round House, Newcastle West on 069 61316 & Brenda in W.L.R main office N.C.W. on 069 62222.
IRISH CANCER SOCIETY: The Irish Cancer Society is offering a free transport service to patients undergoing chemotherapy treatments in University Hospital Limerick. For more details patients can contact their treatment team in the hospital or call Gail on 01 2310 566.
DUAGH SUMMER FESTIVAL: Celebrity chef and Duagh native John Relihan is one of the organisers of a Food Festival planned for the weekend of August 9/10 next.
GRANDPARENTS PILGRIMAGE: The annual Catholic Grandparent’s Association Pilgrimage to Knock will take place on Sunday, September 14. 2014.
BINGO BUSSES: Dinjoe goes to Shanagolden every Tuesday from the church at 7pm and Eoin 087 2522402 leaves for Castleisland from outside Tuohig’s Supervalue at 7.40 pm every Thursday.
ADULT SUICIDE BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP: A support group meets on the first Wednesday of every month from 7-9 pm at Console House, 114 The Grange, Raheen. Family, friends, work colleagues and community bereaved by suicide all welcome. You do not need an appointment to attend. Further information 061 306792.
GROW MOVEMENT: Grow – the community mental health movement – meets on Thursday’s at 8pm, in the Station Room in The Desmond Complex Newcastle West.
LIVING LINKS: Living Links provide practical help, information and support to persons bereaved by suicide. Phone 061-400133 /087-7998427.
CERTIFICATE: Limerick Social and Health Education Programme – autumn 2014. Certificate in Personal Development: year-long, part-time course commencing September 2014. Certificate in Social Awareness Community Empowerment: five weekend course commencing September 2014. The Limerick Social and Health Education Programme is a collaboration between a number of Limerick Groups/Agencies and the Social and Health Education Project (SHEP) which is funded by Limerick Regeneration, Mid-West Drugs & Alcohol Task Force and the HSE. It is an innovative, social-inclusion-focussed, inter-agency, long-term, programme dedicated to promoting individual/community health and well-being and contributing to social capital and social engagement in Limerick and its environs. Since the programme commenced in 2010 sixteen training courses have been organised with over 270 people being involved. This autumn, the Steering Committee of the programme is offering two courses: Certificate in Personal Development: year-long, part-time course commencing September 2014 and a Certificate in Social Awareness Community Empowerment: five weekend course commencing September 2014. The committee has secured grant funding to support participants to access these courses. The highly subsidised participant fee for each course is €150. A recent independent evaluation concluded that there is ‘….a very strong agreement that SHEP in Limerick is delivering a training programme that is at once unique and greatly valued.’ It also concluded that ‘… the SHEP programme portfolio is achieving real and meaningful change in the lives of many of the training participants. At all levels in the portfolio of courses (including Social Awareness and Community Empowerment, Facilitation and Tutor Training) the approach in the SHEP Programme is different because a long-term commitment to personal development, personal grounding and awareness is sustained throughout all the courses. At the foundation level of the programme, use is primarily made of an experiential group-work approach which starts from the life experiences of each individual and supports each participant’s unique, personal growth. If you would like to apply, a completed application form should be submitted by the closing date Wednesday, September 10. For further information and enquiries you can contact Helen O’Grady, Development and Outreach Officer, based in Limerick, on 085-8626844 or the SHEP Project Office on 021-4666180.
Abbeyfeale Gathering Festival 