PROLOGUE:   ‘’Ring a Ring a Rosy, As the year declines, We’ll remember 2020 and the Quare Old times.’’  Mary Murphy.

DEATH:  We offer our sympathy to the family Joe Leahy, Cratloe West whose funeral took place on Thursday. May he rest in peace.

GRAVEYARD COMMITTEES:   As we come to the end of November we thank all who are involved in looking after the graveyards in the parish. We can easily take this work for granted. We acknowledge and thank all who are associated with this voluntary work.

ABBEYFEALE FOR AFRICA:  For the past 25 years or so the Abbeyfeale for Africa committee have been organising a Christmas Cake Sale as a fundraiser for Fr. Tim Galvin’s Mission in South Sudan.  Life in South Sudan was never easy but this year add Covid and a Civil War over the border to the mix.  Life must be extremely tough and fundraisers such as ours can help to make life somewhat easier for Fr. Tim.  This year,  Abbeyfeale For Africa are fundraising for Fr. Tim by distributing envelopes to shops around town , please return the envelope to Abbeyfeale Credit Union and lodge to Abbeyfeale For Africa account which is always open for donations.  The committee have decided to hold the annual cake sale outdoors in the Square alongside the Abbeyfeale Farmers’ Market on Friday, December 18 from 10-12 noon.  We hope our usual bakers will deliver their goods to the Square on the morning as we won’t be able to have drop off points this year.    We will be observing social distancing and wearing masks and ask our loyal customers to do the same.  All inquiries to Mairead at 0868594983.

SOLDIER RETURNS:  Christmas Eve 1961 was a joyous day for Cpl Tadhg Quinn of Port, Abbeyfeale, when he came home to Abbeyfeale from army duty in the Congo. Older people in the community recall the Siege of Jodotville, where he was stationed at the age of 18.

SHOP LOCAL:  We are grateful to all the local shops and businesses who help distribute the Parish Newsletter each weekend. It helps parishioners keep in touch with the parish. At this challenging time of restrictions for all shops and businesses we encourage parishioners to support where possible local shops and businesses, especially in the lead up to Christmas.

PASTORAL SUPPOORT TO PARISHIONERS IN NURSING HOMES:  Due to the necessary Covid -19 restrictions it is not possible for Fr Tony to visit parishioners in Nursing Homes this Christmas. Fr Tony is asking family members to let him know which nursing homes their relatives are resident in so that he can write to them for Christmas. All contact details will remain confidential to Fr Tony. You can email the contact details to [email protected] or text 087-2600414.

HOLY COMMUNION CALLS:  Fr Tony hopes to resume Holy Communion Calls to those confined at home as soon as it is safe to do so.

VISIT PARISH CHURCH:  The Blessed Sacrament chapel is open each weekday from 11.00am to 6.00pm and on Sunday’s from 1.00pm – 6pm.

NOONANS CHRISTMAS LIGHTS;  The family have organised an online fundraiser and you can donate at this link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/noonans-lights-for-charity

WEST LIMERICK COMMUNITY RADIO PLAYING THEIR PART:  WL102fm has provided a great service throughout West Limerick since the lockdown began with Mass broadcast every Sunday morning at 10am to all the people who are cocooning .  Advertising and fundraising pay their expenses and like everyone else they need money to survive.  Please buy a ticket for their weekly draw and help them stay on air – it’s as simple as that – you’ll never miss the water ‘til the well runs dry.  Tickets on sale at Ann Lyons’s, The Square for €2 each and Moss the Farmers’.

CHARITY WALK:  On Tuesday, December 1, Joe Dowling of Carrigkerry, will start his charity walk in the Demesne in Newcastle West, and aims to complete the walk by mid-December. Joe is asking anyone that can afford a donation, to contact Councillor Francis Foley in Tadgh O’Connor’s in Newcastle West, Dooley’s Pharmacy in The Square, Newcastle West,  Pat Geaney, Knockaderry or Moloney’s Shop in Carrigkerry where you can put your name on a Sponsorship card. 100% of the funding will go to the NCBI . Joe is a brother of Michael J Dowling CEO  of Northwell Health New York, who was recently announced as  a winner of a Presidential  Distinguished  Service Award which will be presented in December

LYREACROMPANE JOURNAL: The Lyreacrompane and District Journal is on the shelves once again – thirty years after it first appeared. This Lyre Journal is the largest yet – 108 pages packed with local history accounts and photos old and new. The articles deal with local history from the general area and also takes in stories and accounts from as far afield as Knocknagoshel, Moynsha, Islandanny, Duagh, Kilmorna, Listowel and Castleisland.  Four local murder cases are revisited including the killing of Bob Browne in Knockalougha.  February 2021 is the centenary of that tragic event. More details on Amelia Canty, the rebel woman from Lyreacrompane are revealed.  The story of  Duagh’s ‘bridge to nowhere’ is recounted.  The journal has humour and tragedy from the past and some wonderful ideas for future development.As always, this Journal will be of particular interest to those away from home and its appearance in this year of the Pandemic has been specially timed to give people abroad, who may not be returning home this year, a chance to get it in time for Christmas.  The Lyreacrompane and District Journal, Number 13, is available at Annes Shop in the Square and at Twohig’s SuperValu in Abbeyfeale. It is also at  Watsons in Duagh and other outlets in Tralee, Listowel and Castleisland.  The Journal, which costs €12 plus post and packaging, can also be ordered from – Lyreacrompane Journal, The Glen, Lyreacrompane, Listowel, Co. Kerry. For more information please call 087 285 3570.

CHURCH NEWS:  Fr Tony Mullins 0872600414 Fr Dan Lane (Retired) 087/2533030 Fr Denis Mullane 087/26219.  The church has re opened and Masses are also on line on  www. Church Services tv.   Masses at the usual times:  7pm Monday, 10am Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday except in the event of a funeral when Mass will be at 11am.   Saturday Vigil Mass 6.30pm, Sunday 10am and 12 noon. Mass Intentions:  Wednesday 10am Michael Collins, Upper Purt and Roscommon 1^st anniversary.  Thursday 10am Maurice Griffin, Main Street.   Mass Intentions for next weekend Saturday 6.30pm Ramey Leahy, New Street. Michael Collins  Upper Purt and Roscommon 1st Anniversary. Sonny & Peg McCarthy, Caherlane.  Sunday 10am James O’Sullivan Knocknagoshel 1st Anniversary. 12noon Dan O’Riordan, Dromtrasna Collins Months Mind.  Deceased members of Dore & Flynn Families.   The obligation to attend Sunday Mass has been suspended during these times.  You will need to layer up if you do attend Mass as ventilation is necessary to protect from the virus. The Blessed Sacrament Chapel is open every day from 11-6pm for private prayer.  Mass Intentions: Parishioners can link in online through the Church Services TV Network and the 10.00am Sunday morning Mass will continue to be broadcast on West Limerick 102FM.  Priests will not be making any house calls in the parish during the current situation, except for a necessary pastoral visit. All contacts with the church should be through the telephone or by email. [email protected] Tel Church 068/51915 during Mass times.  Parish Finance: I am very aware that it is a challenging and stressful time for everyone. During this time of economic uncertainty, the ongoing financial support of all who contribute to the parish is greatly appreciated.  In recent weeks we have put a donate facility on the parish website and parishioners have begun to use this facility to make contributions to the parish. This is a simple method of contributing to the parish. Just click on to the parish website at www.abbeyfealeparish.ieand you will see a Donatebutton on the right hand side on the front page of the website. Just follow the instructions and you will be able to make your donation to the parish.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT:  The IHF annual bereavement information evening is being held online this year on Wednesday 9 December, 7 pm. In this online space, the IHF will share some reflections on bereavement and help people find out about the supports that are available. This free event is for all; who may have experienced a Bereavement this year or at an earlier time, or you may be concerned about a child or friend who is grieving and wish to help. Anyone wishing to participate in this online event will need to register in advance of the meeting. You can do so through Eventbrite here or via the following link: https://hospicefoundation.ie/livingwithloss/ You can access Living with Loss on a computer or your mobile phone. When you register, you’ll receive an email to say you’ve registered. The zoom link will then be emailed to you before the event. Use this link to access the event. It will be open from 6.45pm. You are welcome to join the IHF on Wednesday 9 December, 7pm-8.30pm You will not be able to see or hear other attendees nor will they be able to see or hear you. You will only be able to see and hear the speakers. You can type in questions for the speaker using the ‘chat function’ at the bottom of your computer/phone screen. Please offer to help friends and family who have difficultly using technology and would like join us. Attendees do not need to have an email account but will need access to one to receive the link. Age Action has published easy to use guidelines on how to use zoom on your smartphone or computer. Please email bereavement [email protected] with any questions or call 01 679 3188. Further support is available via the freephone Irish Hospice Foundation Bereavement Support Line is 1800 80 70 77 and is open from 10am – 1pm from Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays). If the line is busy when you call, they can call you back if you leave your contact details.

ACCORD PRE-MARRIAGE COURSES AND COUNSELLING SERVICES: Until at least May 2021 Accord pre-marriage courses will take place live on-line with up to 12 couples; via ZOOM, they will be interactive and delivered by 2 presenters. Accord has also resumed face to face counselling. Contact Accord by Phone or online to book.

ALONE:  We provide resources and training to new and well established befriending and support services. Training options are available to both the staff of services and their volunteersFurther information : email [email protected] or call ALONE on 01-679 1032.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY ALERT:  Just a reminder that if you have a panic button and you change your telecom provider you need to let us know as if you change to an Internet provider then there is a cable that we have to get for you.  Also wear the button – hanging it off the bedpost or on the back of the armchair or putting it in the cupboard will be of no use if you fall or have an unwelcome caller.  What if you hit it off the door and it goes off, that’s what you are paying a monitoring fee for – to have it answered immediately.   An Garda Síochána are hoping that by raising awareness of some simple crime prevention measures, such as locking up and lighting up, less Irish families will have to endure the pain of being burgled this winter.  If going out, Irish homeowners should endeavour to make sure their home looks occupied – to Lock Up and Light Up. Use timer switches to turn on lights, lock all doors and windows, store keys away from windows and letterboxes, and use your alarm.  Taking these simple steps will lessen a home’s vulnerability, deter burglars and protect homes.   ( Lock up, light up campaign).   If you have a panic button, check to make sure it is working by pressing it and speaking to the monitoring service – that’s why they are there 24 hours a day and why you are paying a yearly monitoring service fee.  Gardai are asking people to let them know when people call selling goods or offering services on 068 30010. When you reach the age of 65 and live alone or with a person/s aged over 65 you are entitled to receive a monitored alarm system. But if you have younger people living in the house who are out for long periods of the day then,  because you are spending hours alone you are also entitled to the system provided that you are over 65.  The free equipment is provided by Pobal following an application from Abbeyfeale Community Alert, there will be a monitoring fee to be paid from the second year of installation to the installing company of €72.  There may be some confusion over the word free -  the equipment which costs in the region of €400 is provided free of charge by Pobal as is the first year of monitoring but after that you will be charged by the installing company for the monitoring. If you fulfil the criteria for a panic button the installing company will drop the gear to your door and then let you set up the connection yourself with assistance over the phone from their staff.  I have been assured that it’s only a matter of connecting a cable and anyone can do it.   I have not included the phone numbers of the committee in this notice but if you want to get a panic button then ring Abbeyfeale Garda Station on 068 30010 and they will contact one of us. Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month payable from day one.  Then, in year two you will also receive a bill for the monitoring fee so in year one the bill will be €90 and in year two and every other year after it will €162 approx. If you wish you can arrange a direct debit and pay this amount off monthly.    We recently received a query about the application of VAT to the monitoring charge, your bill shows VAT but it is included in the cost not extra to it.  Committee members are Michael O’Kelly N.T., Chairman Seamus Stack, Secretary Mossie Gleeson,  Assistant Treasurer Kathleen Collins, Assistant Secretary Mary McArthur, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Catherine Daly, Maurice O’Connell, Assistant Treasurer Marian Harnett.

BE WINTER READY:  Be Prepared:  Have a small supply of non perishable, easy-to-prepare foods.  Keep extra supplies of essential medication in case it is difficult to get to the doctor/pharmacy.  Have an adequate supply of fuel for heating/cooking and if possible a suitable alternative should the main supply fail.  Have batteries for torches and alternative light sources in the event of power cuts.  Have a water container to ensure a supply of drinking water.  Know how to turn off your water supply.  Keep mobile phones charged up -have local emergency numbers in your phone.  Have a suitable snow shovel (but any shovel or spade will do).  Know your EIRCODE.  (HSE website).

WEST LIMERICK RESOURCES:  The Offices of West Limerick Resources remain closed to the public but all staff are available to contact. Please ring 069 62222 with any queries and you will be directed to the appropriate staff member.

HELPLINES: Hospice Bereavement Line 1800807077 Monday to Friday 10am – 1pm. Jigsaw support line is now up and running on freefone 1800 JIGSAW (544 729). It will provide free mental health support and advice to young people aged 12 to 25 years old, and parents or concerned adults who live in the Republic of Ireland.

Men suffering domestic abuse operates 36 hours a week on 1800816588.    Men’s Aid (Amen) 01 5543811 Monday – Friday 9-5pm.   24 hour helplines for women suffering domestic abuse 1800 341900 or Adapt 1800 200504.  Limerick Social Services:  061-314111.    AA    061/311222 Al-Anon 086/8143425. Parent Support worker 068/31019.  Accord NCW 069/61000.   Samaritans Freephone 116123 or text 087/2609090 or email  Aware (Depression & Anxiety) 1980 303 302 National Suicide Helpline (Pieta House) 1800 247 247 Irish Advocacy Network (Peer advocacy in mental health) 01 872 8684 Pieta House (Suicide & self-harm) 01 623 5606 IACP (Counselling & Psychotherapy) 01 230 3536 Shine: (Supporting people affected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222. ACCORD; are now offering over the phone counselling for couples, Individuals & family members during this time of unprecedented stress & pressure during these weeks of COVID-19. Call: 01 5313331.   Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560 .  Counselling Appointment    061/314213.  ALONE; has launched a national support line and additional supports for older people who have concerns or are facing difficulties relating to the outbreak of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Professional staff are available to answer queries and give advice and reassurance where necessary.  The support line is open Monday to Friday, 8am- 8pm, by calling 0818 222 024. Hours may be extended to meet the demand.

Abbeyfeale – Fr. Tony  Mullins  P.P. / 068 31157
Templeglantine/ Tournafulla / Mountcollins – Fr Denis Mullane / 087 2621911
Athea – Fr Brendan Duggan / 068 42116
Abbeyfeale Parish Office: Open 11:00 am – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. / 068 31133
Email: [email protected]
Abbeyfeale Church / 068 51915 (During Mass times Only).
Parish  Support Worker / 068 31019