PROLOGUE:
"Through humour, you can soften some of the worst blows that life delivers. And once you find laughter, no matter how painful your situation might be, you can survive it."
Bill Cosby
DEATH: The death has taken place of Fr Mickey (Morgan) Sheehy who died in Australia on July 31 last. Funeral Mass and burial will take place in Duagh. Arrangements later.
PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK: The Legion of Mary will travel to Knock on Tuesday, August 19 with Spiritual Leader Canon John O’Shea. Fare of €20 payable in advance to Sean Broderick or Peg Murphy.
BIG MAGGIE SAYS FAREWELL: Big Maggie, celebrates a significant birthday next Friday and is also retiring from the road. She plays her last night at The Shannon House in Foynes, owed by Dennis O’Connor, Killarney Road, next Friday night and she has invited all her Abbeyfeale friends to attend.
BIRTHDAY WISHES: Congratulations to Mrs Mary Healy, Cahirlane who celebrated her 80th. Birthday with a party at T.J. and Mary O’Riordan’s, Main St. recently.
SCHOOL AROUND THE CORNER: A unique fundraiser for St. Ita’s Faith Camp will take place on Saturday, August 30 at Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse. There will be a school around the corner at 9pm followed by a school hop with music by DJ Jeremiah Roche. It is hoped to recreate a school room and have people attend dressed as students or teachers or Sisters so now is the time to be rooting out the old school uniform. Further information as it comes to hand.
START YOUR OWN BUSINESS COURSES: West Limerick Resources will be offering Start Your Own Business Courses this September. A Weekend course will run on Saturday September 6 and 14 with a four night course taking place each Wednesday from September 10th to October 1st. Both courses are free of charge and will take place in Newcastle west, covering all aspects of self-employment and business start-up and development. For further information or to book a space contact Eleanor on 069 66299.
BUSINESS MENTORING: Are you thinking of starting your own business? Have you an idea that you would like to discuss with someone or are you an existing small business who would like advice on new product development or new direction for your company? Are you a new or existing business in need of advice and guidance? West Limerick Resources is offering a free and confidential one to one business mentoring service to businesses based in the West Limerick area. Contact Eleanor on 069 66299 or Joan on 069 66294.
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!
DUAGH SUMMER FESTIVAL: Saturday, August 9 at 1pm the festival grand opening with Billy Keane takes place. This will be followed with a cookery demonstration and competitions. At 6pm there will be live music with Abbeyfeale’s No Direction. Then from 2pm on Sunday there will be Cookery demonstrations and competitions, Farmers’ Market, BBQ and much more. All welcome
RECOVERY HAVEN NEWS: Recovery Haven Men’s Cancer Group meeting this Wednesday, August 6 at 7.30pm. Topic is ‘Promoting a Positive Mind’. All welcome especially those newly diagnosed & those further along in their journey. Venue is Recovry Haven, 5 Haigs Terrace, Tralee. Queries to Siobhán at 066-7192122
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 god parents to pray for those who do not enjoy religious freedom, a good night’s sleep or the comforts which we take for granted.
KERRY WOMEN WRITERS NETWORK: The KWWN Reading Tour is underway and members will read from a selection of their writings at the Seanchai Centre, Listowel on Thursday, August 14 at 7.30pm. All are welcome to the readings which are open to all members of the public and admission is free. Following the readings audience members will be invited to take part in an open mic session where they can also read from their own original work. Further details: Tel: 087 2342005
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.
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 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!
WALKING THE EARTH – TOUCHING DIVINE: Walking the earth – a five weekend course across one year at Glenstal Abbey. Led by Simon Sleeman OSB, Noirin Ni Rian and Abbot Mark Patrick Hederman. Further information about the Walking the Earth – Touching Divine course which runs over several weekends from October 2014 until May 2015 may be obtained by contacting Glenstal Abbey.
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. Intentions for next weekend; Saturday 7pm Tommy, Margaret, Noranne, Helen and Mai Leahy, New Street and Cratloe. Owen and Eileen Doody, Ballaugh. Sunday 9.30am Thomas Browne, Knocknasna, Ann Fitzgibbon, Caherlane 1st. Anniversary. 12 noon Timothy and Elizabeth Mc Auliffe, Mountmahon. Norrie and Paddy Kennedy. 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/
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.
PILGRIMAGE TO MEDJUGORJE: October11-18/18-25. Seven nights B&B, flight and airport transport costs €450. Contact 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.
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 7-9 pm 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 19 and help raise €100,000 for disadvantaged children and their families in communities around Ireland.
For more information contact Sarah on 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 10 from 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.
THOUGHT: "People who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do." Isaac Asimov.
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. 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 