Notices

PROLOGUE:  “Look to the future, because that is where you’ll spend the rest of your life.”
George Burns.

DEATH:  We offer our sympathy to the family of James (Jim) Lane, Meenkilly whose funeral took place at the 12noon Mass on Sunday last. May he rest in peace.

MASS TIMES:  Mass Times in the Pastoral Area Unit; Abbeyfeale – Saturday 6.30pm   and    Sunday   9.15am & 12noon.    Athea -   Saturday 7.30pm and Sunday 10.30am. Mountcollins   – Sunday 11am.  Templeglantine – Saturday 6pm and Sunday 10.00 am.  Tournafulla    -   Saturday 7.30pm.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH:  Fr Tony Mullins PP 087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674. Fr Denis Mullane 087/2621911. Parish Church 068/51915. Parish Office; Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. (068) 31133    Email: [email protected]   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 [email protected] 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 effected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560 .  Counselling Appointment    061/314213.  Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Saturday Masses 11am and 6.30pm.  Sunday 9.15am and 12 noon.  Mass Intentions:  Friday Vigil of Feast of the Immaculate Conception 6.30pm Vincent McNally.  Willie Leahy, Mountmahon.  I C A deceased and present members.  Saturday Feast of the Immaculate Conception 11am Mick Scanlon, Athea

6.30pm Bridget Healy and deceased member of Saunders Family, Knocknasna Lower.  Ramey Leahy, New Street.  John D & Mary Ita Collins and son John and daughter Margaret Enright.  John & Kathryn Broderick, Lower Purt.  Sunday 9.15am Paddy Barry, Caherlane & the Barry family. Hannah Mai Scannell, Dromtrasna Collins. 12noon   Frank Foley, St Ita’s road and deceased family members.  Tom Dillane, Kincolea Lwr.  Peggy O’Riordan, St. Ita’s Housing. Advent Prayer “ Hail and Blessed be the hour and moment in which the Son of God was born of the pureVirgin Mary, at mid-night in a stable in Bethlehem in the piercing cold.   At the same hour vouch safe O My God, hear my prayer and grant my petition. “

ABBEYFEALE HORSE AND PONY RACES:  They are having a night to celebrate the sponsors, horse owners and all those who work to make the races a success on Saturday, December 8 in Donal and Ann’s Bar.   The proceeds of last summer’s very successful Races will be divided among local charities on the night.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR:  Ruby’s, Saturday, December 8 from 12-4pm.  Contact Angela 085 7324262.

CANTATA:  Scoil Mhathair De students will perform their annual Christmas Cantata on Thursday, December 13 at 7pm in the Church of the Assumption.

THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS:  The annual carol service takes place in the Church of the Assumption on Sunday, December 9 from 7pm.  The senior and junior choirs along with the local schools will perform much loved Christmas carols and hymns.  Everyone welcome.  A raffle for Christmas Hampers will take place with proceeds going to the Youth Ministry in the parish.

CHILDREN’S PARTY:  Noonan’s Lights Children’s Christmas party takes place at 4pm on Sunday, December 9.  All welcome. Santa will arrive by sleigh under Garda escort with FREE presents for all the children!!  Local Wrenboys will keep us entertained with music, loads of food for adults, and treats for the kids! Finally, we will be joined by a host of winning County Champions in both Hurling and Football including All Ireland 5 in a row Minor Winner’s Kerry! Will we have another special guest?! It is VERY possible!

**This is a free event for the children, but all donations are very much appreciated. All the proceeds collected are donated to the selected charities at the end of our campaign.**

CHARITY CÉILÍ:  A céilí will take place in Moyvane Hall on Thursday, December 27 from 3 – 6pm with music by Donie Nolan.  It is a fundraiser for the Stack Family, Moyvane.  Further information from Marie 087 9542102.

RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS:  At the start of Advent Abbeyfeale parish invite parishioners to make a commitment to doing some act of kindness in the lead up to Christmas. We have erected in the sanctuary of the church our Parish Random Act of Kindness Tree. We ask you to write your intended act of kindness on the cards provided and hang it on the tree. In this way we will all draw encouragement from one another, and hopefully be inspired to carry out some act of kindness between now and Christmas. Let us do our bit to make everyone a little happier.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS FUNDRAISING COFFEE MORNING:  Our next fundraiser is being held on Friday December 7 at Leeds Hotel at 10.30 am. The wonderful ARA group are hosting this event and if it’s anything like last year , it brought a great sense of fun, camaraderie, and support to improve the our town for Christmas.

TURNING ON THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS:  There was great excitement in the Square on Friday evening last with the arrival of Santa,  lighting of the tree, stalls, mulled wine, mince pies and Christmas Carols and thankfully the earlier rain dried up.  Well done to the Christmas Lights committee who worked so hard to bring Santa and Mrs. Claus to Abbeyfeale providing memories for all the little ones.  A lot of credit should go to the workers led by Jimmy Cahill who erected the lights and the features, events like this do not happen without leadership and community involvement and on behalf of everyone who had their evening enhanced by all the fun may I offer a huge thank you to all concerned.

SHOP LOCAL:  Vouchers will be available this year in Abbeyfeale town to give as Christmas gifts and help encourage the shop local campaign. The Abbeyfeale Gift Voucher can be purchased at Abbeyfeale Credit Union in denominations of €10, €20 and €50.  Abbeyfeale Community Council kindly asks that everyone throughout the Abbeyfeale area keep our wonderful Community in mind when thinking of shopping, doing business and/or socialising. It’s a hugely important time of year for business survival and job retention throughout the Abbeyfeale area and every euro spent locally is a vote of support to keep our Community alive.  The vouchers are available at the Credit Union and can be redeemed in local businesses.  The writer is aware of a local small shopkeeper who is unable to sell popular boxes of biscuits this year because the price they can be bought at in the Cash and Carry is much more than they are being sold at in the multiples.  Never forget that if you need a few messages on tick there is no point in approaching a multiple so give everyone a turn and keep our town viable and vibrant.

HARNETT INTERNATIONAL REUNION 2019:  Calling all Harnetts based West Limerick, North Cork and North Kerry.  We are well into planning for our big weekend next July and we’d love you to get involved and be there to meet up with people from all over the world who share your DNA.  We have a dedicated email address which you can use to get in touch; HarnettReunion2019 @gmail.com You can follow developments on our FB page too.

NEWS FROM THE GLÓRACH:  In an era where it has become increasingly difficult to obtain original Christmas presents, the Glórach Theatre has the ideal solution with our ‘Glórach Gift Voucher’.  The gift voucher is valid for any event performed/hosted/facilitated at the Glórach Theatre.  To order your vouchers and pay directly over the phone, please call 0871383940.  Tickets are moving briskly for our Seán Keane concert on Saturday, December 15th.  The Galway singer’s unique voice drew a colossal crowd to the Glórach back in May, and will bring the curtain down on what has been a successful 2018 for the Theatre.  Tickets can be booked by calling 0871383940.

BOOK ON SALE:  The Treaty Triumph celebrating Limerick’s All Ireland Hurling win is on sale at Ann Lyons’ in the Square.

CONVENT N.S.:  Scoil Mháthair Dé are holding a Christmas Craft Fair in the school on Thursday, December 6 starting at 11.00 a.m. On the day there will be a cake sale and refreshments will also be served. Proceeds with go to the Simon Community (Homeless).

All Welcome

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CHRISTMAS PARTY:  West Limerick Set Dancing Club are holding a Christmas Party in Fr. Casey’s on Saturday, December 15 with music by Donie Nolan and Maura.  Hot Food.  Admission €20.

BAKERS REQUIRED:  The annual cake sale in aid of Fr. Tim Galvin is on Sunday, December 9 in St. Ita’s Hall from 10-2pm and we’re calling on our usual bakers for their donations to this worthy cause.  Donated home baking, jams, chutneys etc can be left in Batt’s in the Square before 5pm on Friday, December 7 or before 4pm on Saturday.

COACH TO KNOCK FOR ALL-NIGHT VIGIL. Leaving Deros, Killarney Friday, December 7 at 3pm. Bookings at Deros before December 6.  Phone – 064 6631251.

PARISH UNITS:  At the diocesan Synod held in April 2016, it was decided by the

Delegates at the Synod to introduce a model of Team Ministry throughout the diocese. This weekend Bishop Leahy has issued a pastoral letter on this new approach to ministering in the diocese.  Parishes will be working in Units and the list of Units was published last week. Abbeyfeale will be part of a Unit that includes the parishes of Templeglantine, Athea and Tournafulla/ Mountcollins parishes. From December 1, all priests working in the Unit are Co Parish Priests of all of the parishes in the Unit. Fr Denis Mullane has been appointed as Moderator of the Unit of Parishes. Fr Mullane’s role will be to coordinate the

Pastoral work in the Unit of Parishes. In the New Year a single Pastoral Council will be put in place for the Unit of Parishes.  Each individual parish within the Unit will have a co- ordinating committee or local parish council. This new structure will see greater movement of the priests within the Unit of Parishes, especially for the celebration of the Vigil Mass and Sunday Mass.

KERRY PARENTS & FRIENDS Presents a Gala Christmas concert in association with Kerry Choral Union on Sunday, December 16 in St. Mary’s Church, Listowel. Tickets from parish office & Whelan’s Shop €10.

WEDNESDAY PRAYER:  Parishioners are invited to gather in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel on Wednesday afternoon at 3p.m to recite the Divine Mercy Chaplet for  Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life.  This prayer meeting will take place every Wednesday.

AFTERNOON TEA DANCE:  This will be a fundraiser for Fr. Martin McCormack’s African Project and takes place on Sunday, January 13 at Fr. Casey’s with dancing to Donie Walsh and Jer Enright.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS SORTED:  Much of the past fifty years is captured in a book especially complied to mark the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Church of the Assumption, Abbeyfeale. The book contains many wonderful coloured photographs that show off the splendour of the Church, its stained glass windows and general embellishment.   The title of the publication is Moladh go Deo Le Dia. (Praise be to God forever). Price €10. The book is available in O’Donoghue’s, Marguerite’s, Ann Lyons’ Moss Harnett’s and following Mass.

ICA:  Abbeyfeale ICA guild meet on the first and third Tuesday of the month at the Further Education and Training Centre, Mountmahon from 7.30 – 9.30pm..  Activities include Talks, Demonstrations and Workshops.  New members welcome. Tel. Anne Maria 06831145 for details.

CHRISTMAS WALK:  The annual Christmas Walk along the Great Southern Trail Greenway will take place on Thursday, December 27. Assembly is at the large carpark behind Leen’s Hotel, Abbeyfeale, Co.Limerick between 12.30pm and 1.30pm. The hotel is on the N21 and the public bus services stop a few hundred metres from the hotel. The Bus Éireann services from Tralee via Listowel at 11.00 and from Limerick at 11.35 are recommended. Walkers will be transferred by Coach House Travel courtesy shuttle coach from Leen’s Hotel car park to Tullig Wood/Devon Road from where they will have a choice of either a 5.75 miles [9km] or 4.5 miles [7km] stroll, mostly along the old railway, back to Leen’s Hotel where they can enjoy seasonal mince pies, whipped cream and tea/coffee at their leisure. All walkers must wear visibility vests as the final kilometre is through the streets of Abbeyfeale and involves crossing the busy N21 which must be crossed at the zebra crossing close to the hotel. Cyclists, with visibility gear and lights, are also welcome and we suggest that they also meet at the hotel at 12.30 and cycle outwards along the Greenway for approximately one hour towards Barnagh or beyond and then return in time to enjoy the refreshments. We recommend that cyclists also wear a helmet for their own safety. Nollaig Shona do gach éinne agus beidh fáilte romhat ar an 27ú.

PROLOGUE: “It’s better to bite your tongue than to eat your words.”

– Frank Sonnenberg

MASS TIMES:  Mass Times in the Pastoral Area Unit; Abbeyfeale – Saturday 6.30pm   and    Sunday   9.15am & 12noon.    Athea -   Saturday 7.30pm and Sunday 10.30am. Mountcollins   – Sunday 11am.  Templeglantine – Saturday 6pm and Sunday 10.30am.  Tournafulla    -   Saturday 7.30pm.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH:  Fr Tony Mullins PP 087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674. Fr Denis Mullane 087/2621911. Parish Church 068/51915. Parish Office; Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. (068) 31133    Email: [email protected]   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 [email protected] 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 effected by mental ill health) 01 860 1620 061 – 412111 or Free phone 1850609090 A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203    068/ 31262    068/51984    St Vincent De Paul    Tel 087/1213560 .  Counselling Appointment    061/314213.  Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Saturday Masses 11am and 6.30pm.  Sunday 9.15am and 12 noon.  Mass Intentions:.Wednesday   10am    Fintan Hoare Knockbrack. Thurday 10am   Michael, Kathleen and Julia Collins   Bridge Street
Friday 10am   Michael Scully late of Mountmahon. 7pm Fred Tobin, Main St. Memorial Mass.  Saturday 11am       Tadhgean Hartnett, Kilconlea. 6.30pm Patie Lane, Kilconlea.  Harnett, Collins Park. Mary Kelly nee Brick, Coolewest/ Down. Tom Doody, Kilconlea Upper and family Members.  Patrick Nash, Knocknasna Months mind.  Sunday 9.15am Dick Danaher, Church Street / Shanbally.  12noon Willie & Ciss Curtin.  Daniel Francis & Ellen O’Connor, Main Street.  Mary Harnett, Dromtrasna Harnett, Month Mind, Betty McCusker, Dromtrasna Harnett.  Monday 26 John & Mary Sheehy. Jim and Mary Ann Stack.

DONATION TO PALLIATIVE CARE, TRALEE:  The friends and family of the late Joan O’Keeffe were delighted to present the Palliative Care Unit in Kerry General with €3013 recently.  This was the proceeds of the Afternoon Tea Dance held at Fr. Casey’s on the October Bank Holiday.

SWITCHING ON OF CHRISTMAS LIGHTS:  Santa Clause will be arriving in Abbeyfeale on Friday, November 30 at 6pm for the switching on of the Christmas Lights. Secretary of the Christmas lights committee Hilary Collins says that “There will be a variety of Christmas Stalls in the Square following the switching on of the lights”. She also wants to thank everyone from Abbeyfeale, Duagh, Athea, Templeglantine, Tournafulla, Mountcollins, Rockchapel, Brosna and Knocknagoshel who came out to for the big switch on and she hopes to see everyone again this year.  All are welcome! “https://www.facebook.com/AbbeyChristmasLights/

EAT WELL, AGE WELL:  On Thursday, November 22 Niamh O’Connor accredited Dietician and Nutrition Consultant will give a talk on Healthy eating for older people in Castleisland Library from 1.30 pm. Tel 066-7163403 for more details.

CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE:  The annual carol service takes place in the Church of the Assumption on Sunday, December 9 from 7pm.

HARNETT INTERNATIONAL REUNION 2019:  Calling all Harnetts based West Limerick, North Cork and North Kerry.  We are well into planning for our big weekend next July and we’d love you to get involved and be there to meet up with people from all over the world who share your DNA.  We have a dedicated email address which you can use to get in touch;  HarnettReunion2019 @gmail.com You can follow developments on our FB page too.

WINTER CONCERT:  West Limerick Community Radio are hosting a variety concert in the Longcourt Hotel on Wednesday, November 28 at 7.30pm featuring Paddy O’Brien, Willie Relihan, Muriel O’Connor, Fran Curry, Dermot Lyons, Bunratty Harpists, Marion Kirby and more.  Tickets €15 available from Pat Donovan, the Radio Station or John Harrold.

CHRISTMAS SOCIAL:  The Fealebridge & Headley’s Bridge Creameries 49th Annual Social will be held at The Devon Inn Hotel, Templeglantine on Friday, November 30.   Dinner at 8.30 pm.  Music by The Neily O’Connor Band. Everyone welcome!

ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR:  St Ita’s Hall will be open to all on Friday, November 30 from 11am -3pm where Artisans throughout the area will be displaying the results of their talents in the form of some unusual and unique Art and Craft products. A must go-to Event for anyone interested in and supporting the glorious world of Arts & Crafts. All are Welcome!

SHOP LOCAL AND SUPPORT ABBEYFEALE:  Business Survival and Job Retention have never been more important for rural Communities throughout Ireland. Abbeyfeale Community Council kindly asks that everyone throughout the Abbeyfeale area keep our wonderful Community in mind when thinking of Shopping, doing Business and/or Socialising. It’s a hugely important time of year for Business survival and Job retention throughout the Abbeyfeale area and every Euro spent locally is a vote of support to keep our Community alive. Also bear in mind the Abbeyfeale Gift Voucher which makes for a fantastic present at any time of year and can be spent in most Businesses throughout Abbeyfeale. The Abbeyfeale Gift Voucher can be purchased at Abbeyfeale Credit Union in denominations of €10, €20 and €50. Shop Local and support Abbeyfeale! Best Wishes to All!

MEETING:  A meeting of Parish Pastoral Councils of this Area Unit will take place on Wednesday, November 28 at 8pm in Abbeyfeale Church. Please make a note of this date in your diary as we would like as many as possible of the members to attend this information meeting on the new pastoral Area Unit Plan – a follow on from the Synod process.   The Pastoral Area Team members are also invited to this meeting.

COACH TO KNOCK FOR ALL-NIGHT VIGIL. Leaving Deros, Killarney Friday, December 7 at 3pm. Bookings at Deros before December 6.  Phone – 064 6631251.

BOOK ON SALE:  The Treaty Triumph celebrating Limerick’s All Ireland Hurling win is on sale at Ann Lyons’ in the Square.

GLÓRACH EVENTS:  Bingo takes place every Monday at the usual time of 8.30 pm.  On Friday, November 23 we will be screening the critically acclaimed documentary film, The Lonely Battle of Thomas Reid at 8.00 pm.  On Saturday, December 15, Seán Keane will be coming back to the Glórach for what should be once again a memorable night of song.  To book tickets for the latter events, please call 0871383940.

JUBILEE YEAR NEWSLETTER:  It is intended to produce a Christmas Newsletter this year. Articles and reports and good wishes from the different organizations of the parish with photographs for this year’s publication are requested.  Please submit to the parish office via email; [email protected] before Monday, November 26.

NOONAN’S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: Hannah, Tony and Siobhan are all set to switch on their fundraising display for 2018.  Saturday, November 24 is the night and everyone is welcome.  Members of the winning All Ireland teams will be in attendance with some serious hardware that hasn’t been seen around Tempglantine before. Let the Christmas season begin!

BAKERS REQUIRED:  The annual cake sale in aid of Fr. Tim Galvin is on Sunday, December 9 in St. Ita’s Hall from 10-2pm and we’re calling on our usual bakers for their donations to this worthy cause.

COACH TO KNOCK FOR ALL-NIGHT VIGIL. Leaving Deros, Killarney Friday, December 7 at 3pm. Bookings at Deros before December 6.  Phone – 064 6631251.

SOCIAL MEDIA FOR COMMUNITY GROUPS: West Limerick Resources will host a free workshop on ‘Social Media for Community Groups’ on Thursday, November 22, at the Long Court House Hotel, Newcastle West, from 7.00pm – 9.30pm. This workshop is aimed at providing participants with knowledge and skills to be able to use social media effectively for their community group. Topics covered include; how to attract followers, engage audiences and developing an online communications policy. Registration is essential by contacting Damien Ahern at West Limerick Resources on 087 9042477 or by emailing [email protected]

PARISH RETREAT:  Ardfert retreat centre.   Evening of Reflection & Prayer for Abbeyfeale Parish, Tuesday, November 27 from 7.30pm-10.30pm.

RATHKEALE & DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY:  The society  will hold its next meeting on Friday, November 23  at 8.30 pm, in the Community Arts Centre New Line Rathkeale. Topic: DUNRAVEN ESTATE  Speaker: Lady Geraldine, Countess of Dunraven.     All are welcome. Admission Free.

WEDNESDAY PRAYER:  Parishioners are invited to gather in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel on Wednesday afternoon at 3p.m to recite the Divine Mercy Chaplet for  Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life.  This prayer meeting will take place every Wednesday.

CRAFTY CORNER:  Knitting and crochet group have resumed classes on Tuesday nights at St Ita’s Hall Abbeyfeale. New members welcome. Just drop in.

CRAFT CO-OP:  Abbeyfeale Craft Co-op has resumed in St. Ita’s Hall on Thursdays from 11- 2pm.  New Member’s Welcome.  Any information required contact Mary 087 2237363.

ICA:  Abbeyfeale ICA guild meet on the first and third Tuesday of the month at the Further Education and Training Centre, Mountmahon from 7.30 – 9.30pm..  Activities include Talks, Demonstrations and Workshops.  New members welcome. Tel. Anne Maria 06831145 for details.

RAMBLING HOUSE:  A Christmas rambling house will be held at Fr Casey’s club house Abbeyfeale on Thursday, December 20 in aid of the Chemotherapy Day Ward at Kerry General Hospital.   Your support would be greatly appreciated and all singers, dancers, storytellers and musicians all welcome to attend.  Doors open at 8.30 and show begins at 9pm.  Spot prizes and Santa will also make a visit on the night.

PROLOGUE:  No one saves us but ourselves. No one can and no one may. We ourselves must walk the path.”
Gautama Buddha.
DEATH:  Sincere sympathy is offered to Patrick Leahy and his children on the death of Rebecca.  May she rest in peace.

ABBEYFEALE PARISH CHURCH:  Fr Tony Mullins PP  087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674.  Parish Office:  Parish Church 068/51915 Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri. (068) 31133    Email: [email protected]   Limerick Social Services:     061-314111    Accord NCW 069/61000 Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Saturday Masses 11am and 6.30pm.  Sunday 9.15am and 12 noon.  Mass Intentions: Wednesday 8pm Young Priests Society.  Saturday 6.30pm    Nonie & Jack Kelly and daughters    Mary B, Teresa and granddaughter Lisa.  Terry Morrissey and his grandparents David & Nora Morrissey.  Sunday 9.15am      Frank Collins, Banard 12noon Hannah Mai Scannell, St Ita’s Terrace.           Margaret Lane, Ballaugh. Prayers to St Anthony on Mondays during the 7pm Mass.  Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Fridays during the 10am Mass.  Counselling takes place every week in West Limerick Tel 061/3147213 for appointment.  A basket for the collection of stamps for Peru is at the back of the altar.  If you know of someone in hospital please notify Fr. Tony.

ABBEYFEALE FIRE BRIGADE:  Recruitment open day next Friday, September 14 from 3 – 8pm. If you think you got what it takes to become a retained member of the fire service why not come along and meet crew members and get some more information on the night.
Closing date for applications is September 27.

MACRA NA FEIRME:  Castleisland Macra will be holding a recruitment night in Mc Carthy’s Bar on Friday, September 28 at 8pm.  All welcome up to the age of 35, do not need to be a farmer.

KNOCK:  Legion of Mary Pilgrimage to Knock Sunday, September 23. Coach leaving the Church Abbeyfeale at 7am sharp. Cost: €20 paid beforehand to ensure a seat. Please contact: Bernard Broderick 068 31565 Sean Broderick 068 31213 Michael Lane 068 32757 087 298084.  David Davy 087 0994272.

WEDNESDAY CLUB COFFEE MORNING:  Friday, September 21 at the Ploughman Bar.

READING GROUP:  St Ita’s Reading Group is starting again after the Summer break on Wednesday September 12 @10.30 in The Adoration Chapel. Do come and take a book for the long Winter evenings.

YOUTH MINISTRY LEADER TRAINING 2018: This year the Limerick Diocesan Youth Ministry Team delivered youth ministry training to 29 people from 13 parishes. This training was one of the key actions arising from the Synod process and the subsequent Pastoral Plan. The feedback from participants and clergy was very positive and we will be running another course beginning in September 2018.  Please get in contact with Aoife at 061-350000 or email [email protected] if you are interested in taking part in this year’s training.

ST. JOSEPH’S YOUNG PRIEST SOCIETY:  St Joseph’s Young priests Society will hold the Limerick Diocesan Meeting in Abbeyfeale on Wednesday, September 12. Mass in the Blessed Sacrament Church @ 8pm. Meeting afterwards in the Day Centre.  All welcome.

TRIP TO THE HOLY LAND:  Christmas Pilgrimage Group to the Holy Land  19-27, 2018 (Last Remaining Places) Taking in Bethlehem, Jerusalem  (Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Last Supper Room and Calvary), Mount Tabor, Cana, Nazareth, Jericho, River Jordan,  Dead Sea and Sea of Galilee. Contact James Treacy 061921470 or 0860572216 payments can be made in instalments before December.

PILGRIMAGE:  Rome/San Giovanni Easter 2019 with Papal Ceremonies in Rome for the Easter Period 7 night’s €995 pps.   Payments can be made in instalments contact James Treacy on 061921470 or 0860572216.

ICA:  Abbeyfeale ICA guild resumed activities on Tuesday night last at the Further Education and Training Centre, Mountmahon from 7.30 – 9.30pm. The guild usually meet first and third Tuesday of the month (except September). Activities include Talks, Demonstrations and Workshops.  New members welcome. Tel. Anne Maria 06831145 for details.

LIMERICK BEEKEEPERS:  Denis Ryan will speak at the meeting on New Varroa Treatments and Winter Preparation in Mungret GAA Hall on Thursday, September 13.

The meeting will start at 8pm sharp.

IRISH RED CROSS:  The West Limerick branch of the Irish Red Cross is recruiting new voluntary members to help with our duties in the West Limerick area.  Driver training will be offered to all new members. Drivers need a full clean licence and have to be over 25.  First aid training will be offered to new members over 18.  There will be an information night in St Ita’s Hall, Abbeyfeale on Wednesday, September 12 from 8-9pm.  Further information Ciara (086) 3106009.

BE PART OF THE SOLUTION TO PLASTIC POLLUTION:  “See, Judge, Act!” An evening providing inspiration, hope and action to protect our Common Home. Screening of the documentary Plastic in Paradise by Derrynane based Vincent Hyland, followed by a Voice Ireland recycling workshop will be held on Wednesday, September 19 @ 8pm in John Paul II Pastoral Centre, Killarney. Free event. Everyone welcome.

BEREAVEMENT INFORMATION:  Milford Care Centre & Anam Cara:  The organisation that supports bereaved parents is holding a Bereavement Information Evening on Thursday, September 20 at 7:00pm in Milford Care Centre, Limerick. This is a free event and open to all bereaved parents. As Milford Care Centre & Anam Cara will need to confirm numbers for teas, coffees, etc., please RSVP to [email protected] before Wednesday,September 19 or call the Information Line on 085 2888 888.

FAITH FORMATION:  Adult Faith Formation classes, offered by the Dominican Sisters in St Saviour’s Dominican Church, Limerick. A comprehensive overview of the Catholic faith will be presented in 10 sessions. Come be a part of this special opportunity to grow in knowledge, faith, and community. The group will meet every Wednesday from 7 -8:30pm from October 3.

PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP:  11am – 12.30pm every Tuesday and Thursday, St Ita’s Hall. New people always welcome. Contact Mary on 087 9382883.

CEILI HOUSE RECORDING:  Ceili House will be recorded in the Community Centre, Ardagh on Sunday, September 16.  Admission €5.

DANCING CLASSES: The Croghan/Greene Academy of Irish Dance with

Instructor Brendan Croghan T.C.R.G. A.D.C.R.G has commenced  classes on Tuesday, September 11 from 2-3pm for (Junior/Senior Infants) and from 3 -4pm (All other age groups) inTeach na Féile Community Centre, New St.  Some of the benefits of Irish dancing include:

Increased physical Skills – Developing body control, muscular strength, endurance and energy levels. Motor Skill Development – Increased agility, balance and co-ordination.

Increased mental skills – Listening, following directions, increasing attention span, memorizing steps.  Weight Management – High burn calorie workout.  Term Fee: 5 weeks €40 (second family member €30).  Contact Brendan on 086-8109819 for further details.

MASS FOR ARDFERT CO-ORDINATORS:  A gathering of parish contact people who organise retreats at Ardfert retreat centre will take place on Wednesday, September 12 from 7.30 – 9.30pm. Mass celebrated by Fr Liam Comer 066/7134276.

FREE WORKSHOPS IN ABBEYFEALE:  West Limerick Resources invites you to attend a free workshop in St. Ita’s Hall, Abbeyfeale.  ‘Invasive Species’ identifying and combating Invasive Species in your local area, on Monday, September 24, at 7.30pm.  To register Elaine [email protected] or 069 66296. All welcome.

ADULT SET DANCING:  for beginners with Timmy Woulfe every Monday at 8pm in the Marian Hall, Moyvane.  Everyone welcome.

CULTURE NIGHT AT THE GLÓRACH:  As part of Culture Night, on Friday, September 21 we will be screening the documentary film, ‘The Limerick Brigadistas- From the Shannon to the Ebro’.  This documentary looks at the role of the six Limerick men who fought for the Republicans against Franco during the Spanish Civil War, and included in their ranks was one Jim Woulfe from Athea who was killed in fighting in 1937.  The screening commences at 8 pm, and the event is free to all.

BINGO AT THE GLÓRACH:  Bingo every Monday night at the Glórach from 8.30pm.

SOCIAL DANCING:  Learn to waltz, jive, slosh etc. with Josephine at The Railway every Tuesday from 8pm.

CHALLENGE:  The 5th Annual event will take place on Saturday, October 20, starting at Dromtrasna National School, Abbeyfeale. All proceeds from this year’s event will go to the ‘Miriam Joy Cancer Treatment Fund.

PARISH OFFICE HOSTS MEETINGS: Narcotics Anonymous meet every Monday night @ 8pm in the parish Office.  Al-anon meet on Tuesday evening @ 8pm. A.A.  Meet every Wednesday afternoon @ 3pm, Friday night @ 8pm and Sunday mornings @ 10am.  These organisations are a great voluntary support to many people and we are happy to host their meetings in our parish office.

KNOCKANURE RAMBLING HOUSE:    Knockalougha, Duagh on the third Tuesday of every month.

MOLADH GO DEO LE DIA:  Much of the past fifty years is captured in a book especially complied to mark the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Church of the Assumption, Abbeyfeale. The book contains many wonderful coloured photographs that show off the splendour of the Church, its stained glass windows and general embellishment.   The title of the publication is Moladh go Deo Le Dia. (Praise be to God forever). Price €10. The book is available in O’Donoghue’s, Marguerite’s, Ann Lyons’ Moss Harnett’s and following Mass.

OFFICE MOVE: Please note that the Abbeyfeale Office of West Limerick Resources has relocated to St Ita’s Hall, Convent Street, Abbeyfeale.  If you have any enquiries, please call to the office and speak to Nora or you can call Mary on 087 9382883.

AUTISM CONFERENCE:  Cork Autism Conference 2018 – Re-Thinking Autism – A Positive and Integrative Approach, Sunday September 30 at Rochestown Park Hotel, Douglas, Cork. Conference provides a unique forum for Parents, Families, Caregivers, Adults with ASD, Employers, Educators, Professionals, Agencies, Advocates and anyone with an interest in autism and Asperger’s syndrome. All are welcome. More info here: www.bookwhen.com/corkautism or call 089 239 8900

HOLY SPIRIT PRAYER MEETING:  Janice and Moss Carraig will lead the Holy Spirit Prayer meeting on the second Sunday of each month in the Desmond Complex.  Further information on 087 6174639.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR BEREAVEMENT: Abbeyfeale Bereavement Support Group Tel. 068/31230 or 068/51984 or 068/31262.

MEDJUGORJE: 7 nights October 10-17. Contact Annemarie Tydings, 0871013804.

ADVICE FROM COMMUNITY ALERT: Abbeyfeale Garda Station 068 30010 (if station unattended the call will automatically be forwarded to NCW station 069 20650.) Contact any member of the committee should you wish to join our Text Alert Scheme.  This was set up to immediately alert the community that an incident has occurred.   The hope is that by raising awareness, people would keep a watchful eye out, contact the Gardai if they see something and thus help to deter criminal activily in our area.  Once 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 €66.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month.  Please note that this fee is payable in a lump sum each year after year one. Committee members are Sean Broderick, Micheal O’Kelly N.T., Seamus Stack, Mossie Gleeson, Kathleen Collins, Mary McArthur, Buddy and Brenda Barry, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Mary Jo O’Connell, James Joy, Denis Collins, Marian Harnett.

LISTOWEL PADRE PIO PRAYER GOURP PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK Sunday, September 16 at 7.30am. Contact Bernadette on 0876019474.

ARDFERT RETREAT CENTRE (0667134276) Fall Adult Religious Education Programme: Fr. Sean Sheehy, Topic: What does God want me to do with my life? This is an 8-session course, Wednesdays – beginning September 19.  Parental Grief Retreat: Caroline Ni Dhuinn, Emmaus Ministry for Grieving Parents USA, Saturday, September 29 from 9 -6.00pm. www.emfgp.org to register or call 7125129.

THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY’S:  National Conference is being held in the Clayton Hotel, Silver Springs, Cork on Saturday, September 22 from 10am –4pm.

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 is now seeking volunteers to make these phone-calls from a dedicated space where a mobile phone is available. All volunteers will be Garda Vetted and 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 so call Damien at West Limerick Resources on 087 9042477 or Stefanie on 087 3663842.

BACK2NEW FURNITURE POP UP SHOP NOW OPEN!  Re-designed and re-imagined furniture available. Now open every Wednesday and Thursday from 9.30am-4.30pm at Market Place (previously Citizens Information), Market Yard, Newcastle West.

RURAL SOCIAL SCHEME RECRUITING POTENTIAL PARTICIPANTS: West Limerick Resources is compiling a list of individuals interested in joining the Rural Social Scheme (RSS). Participants on the scheme work 19.5hrs per week and receive a top up payment from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. To participate on the scheme you must fulfil the following criteria: Be actively farming over 1 hectare of land; Have a valid herd number; Proof of application for the EU Basic Payment Scheme for the current year and be in receipt of Farm Assist, Jobseekers Allowance or other qualifying payments.  Spouses, children, brothers and sisters of the herd owner can also join the scheme if they meet relevant criteria.  Only one person allowed per herd number.  For further details contact Tom or Michelle at West Limerick Resources on 069-61316 or Email:  [email protected].  Successful eligible candidates will be placed on a panel from which vacancies will be filled.

PROLOGUE: “A man who has committed a mistake and doesn’t correct it, is committing another mistake.”  Confucius
CHURCH NOTES: Canon Anthony Mullins 087/2600414.  Fr Brendan Duggan 087/0562674 Parish Office:  Parish 068/31133 Open 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. Tues. – Fri.     Email: [email protected] Limerick Social Services:     061-314111   Accord NCW 069/61000.  .    Parish Church 068/51915.  Limerick Social Services:     061-314111.   A.A. 061-311222 Al-Anon 086-8143425 Bereavement Support: 068 / 31203, 068/ 31262, 068/5198. Parish Support Worker 068/31019.   St Vincent De Paul 087/1213560.  087 – 2618412.  To book a Mass intention telephone the church 068/51915 during Mass times.  Counselling Appointment    061/314213. Accord NCW 069/61000. Samaritans: Freephone 116 123, text 087 2609090 (rates apply), email [email protected] or visit Samaritans on 20 Barrington Street, Limerick.

Masses:   No morning Mass Monday, evening Mass at 7pm.  Saturday Masses 11am and 6.30pm.  Sunday 9.15am and 12 noon.  Mass Intentions: Saturday 11am    Tom Fitzgerald, Knocknasna. 6.30pm. Maureen Higgins & Monica & Michael Collins and the Collins Family.  Juliann McCarthy, Meenkilly & Collins Park.  Jack O’Grady, Dromtrasna South. Kathleen Fitzgerald, Dromtrasna North.  Sunday 9.15am Kate Naughton, Hill Road &      Denis Naughton Mountcollins.  Molly Coleman & John Coleman Manchester.  12noon Paul Collins Convent Street & Limerick.  Michael O’Sullivan Colbert Terrace.  First Friday Next Friday of the month. Confessions on Thursday after the 10am Mass.

St Joseph’s Young Priests Group will meet at 8pm in the Sacristy on Wednesday 5th Sept.  Prayers to St Anthony on Mondays during the 7pm Mass.  Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Fridays during the 10am Mass.  Counselling takes place every week in West Limerick Tel 061/3147213 for appointment.  A basket for the collection of stamps for Peru is at the back of the altar.  If you know of someone in hospital please notify Fr. Tony.

KNOCK:  Legion of Mary Pilgrimage to Knock Sunday, September 23. Coach leaving the Church Abbeyfeale at 7am sharp. Cost: €20 paid beforehand to ensure a seat. Please contact: Bernard Broderick 068 31565 Sean Broderick 068 31213 Michael Lane 068 32757 087 298084.  David Davy 087 0994272.

IRISH CANCER SOCIETY:  The church gate collection raised €1,170.00 for which the organisers thank all who manned the boxes and especially all those who contributed.

WORLD SUICIDE PREVENTION DAY:  Monday, September 10 marks World Suicide Prevention Day. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death amongst young people in Ireland and worldwide. In Ireland alone, there are about 12000 attempted suicides each year. The number of cases of suicide has stabilised since the recession with 399 last year in 2016 in comparison with 451 in 2015 and 554 in 2011, according to the National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP) annual report.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY GARDEN:  The sale of produce outside the church last weekend raised just under €800.  A huge thank you to everyone who supported us.

DANCING CLASSES: The Croghan/Greene Academy of Irish Dance with

Instructor Brendan Croghan T.C.R.G. A.D.C.R.G. will commence classes on Tuesday, September from 2-3pm for (Junior/Senior Infants) and from 3 -4pm (All other age groups) in

Teach na Féile Community Centre, New St.  Some of the benefits of Irish dancing include:

Increased physical Skills – Developing body control, muscular strength, endurance and energy levels. Motor Skill Development – Increased agility, balance and co-ordination.

Increased mental skills – Listening, following directions, increasing attention span, memorizing steps.  Weight Management – High burn calorie workout.  Term Fee: 5 weeks €40 (second family member €30).  Contact Brendan on 086-8109819 for further details.

MASS FOR ARDFERT CO-ORDINATORS:  A gathering of parish contact people who organise retreats at Ardfert retreat centre will take place on Wednesday, September 12 from 7.30-9.30pm. Mass celebrated by Fr Liam Comer 066/7134276.

FREE WORKSHOPS IN ABBEYFEALE ON ‘ZERO WASTE’ & ‘INVASIVE SPECIES’:  West Limerick Resources invites you to attend two free workshops, this September, in St. Ita’s Hall, Abbeyfeale.  ‘Zero Waste’: a workshop on highlighting and reducing unnecessary waste, on Monday, September 10, at 7:30pm.  ‘Invasive Species’: a workshop on identifying and combating Invasive Species in your local area, on Monday, September 24, at 7.30pm.  To register your place please contact Elaine, at West Limerick Resources, [email protected] or 069 66296. All are welcome to attend.

ABBEYFEALE FARMERS’ MARKET:  The Men’s Shed hope to attend the Farmers’ Market on Friday, September 7 with a selection of handmade goods. Jon, Morgan, Seamus, Helga and I as well as the members of the Men’s shed look forward to your welcome support.

ADULT SET DANCING:  for beginners with Timmy Woulfe every Monday at 8pm in the Marian Hall, Moyvane.  Everyone welcome.

CULTURE NIGHT AT THE GLÓRACH:  As part of Culture Night, on Friday, September 21 we will be screening the documentary film, ‘The Limerick Brigadistas- From the Shannon to the Ebro’.  This documentary looks at the role of the six Limerick men who fought for the Republicans against Franco during the Spanish Civil War, and included in their ranks was one Jim Woulfe from Athea who was killed in fighting in 1937.  The screening commences at 8 pm, and the event is free to all.

NATIONAL GRANDPARENTS PILGRIMAGE:  Catholic Grandparents Association Knock Shrine 2.30pm on Sunday, September 9.   Everybody welcome to honour & thank Grandparents alive & dead for all they have done for us down through the ages. Chief Celebrant Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, Apostolic Nuncio – Combined Choirs of Knock Parish – The Tuttle Family – Dana sings ‘Our Lady of Knock’.  A bus will leave the Cathedral in Killarney on Sunday, September 9 at 7am via Tralee and Listowel.  Hope to pick up in Abbeyfeale at 8.15am.   Enquiries to O’Shea’s 066 7180123.

BINGO AT THE GLÓRACH:  Bingo every Monday night at the Glórach from 8.30pm.

AFTERNOON TEA DANCING:  The Wednesday Club are hosting a fundraising tea dance in Fr. Casey’s Club House on Sunday September 9 from 3- 6pm. This event is being held on behalf of 4 year old Shane Enright from Athea Co Limerick. Shane was born with a number of serious health problems including cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease, kidney problems. He is in constant leg pain as his spine is not growing properly. All money raised will go towards the extension of the family home to meet Shane’s basic needs. This little boy needs all the help he can get to make life a little more comfortable for him. Tickets for this event can be had from or donations can be made to members of the Wednesday club care of St Ita’s Hall or from Madeline O’Connor. Convent St. Your support would be greatly appreciated by the family of this lovely little boy. A raffle will also be held on the day. Music will be by The Billy O’Brian band with special guest BIG MAGGIE.  Tickets can also be got from Benny Thade McCarthy who is helping to organise the event.

CLASS:  A free Adult Sign Language Class will resume on September 18 at the Adult Education Centre in Mountmahon.  Beginner’s classes on Tuesday nights with Level 1 on

Wednesdays. Anyone interested please contact Breda 087 7715734.

CHALLENGE:  The 5th Annual event will take place on Saturday, October 20, starting at Dromtrasna National School, Abbeyfeale. The Dromtrasna Challenge offers a unique opportunity to all members of the community to get involved through our 2K Kids Run, 4K Walk/Run and 10K Run. There is something for everyone in this year’s event. 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 Pulse, a band that combines world-class musicianship with one of Ireland’s finest vocalists.   All proceeds from this year’s event will go to the ‘Miriam Joy Cancer Treatment Fund.

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 is now seeking volunteers to make these phone-calls from a dedicated space where a mobile phone is available. All volunteers will be Garda Vetted and 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 so call Damien at West Limerick Resources on 087 9042477 or Stefanie on 087 3663842.

BACK2NEW FURNITURE POP UP SHOP NOW OPEN!  Re-designed and re-imagined furniture available. Now open every Wednesday and Thursday from 9.30am-4.30pm at Market Place (previously Citizens Information), Market Yard, Newcastle West.

PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP:  11am – 12.30pm every Tuesday and Thursday, St Ita’s Hall. New people always welcome. Contact Mary on 087 9382883.

ADVICE FROM COMMUNITY ALERT: Abbeyfeale Garda Station 068 30010 (if station unattended the call will automatically be forwarded to NCW station 069 20650.)  My first cousins daughter works in the National Call Centre and recently told me that the most important thing when you make an emergency call is to be able to quote your eircode.  They can dispatch an ambulance to your door instantly with the eircode so have it beside the phone or written on the back of your mobile phone.  Talking of eircodes there is a new company who can mark your property with your eircode – tractors, quads, tools – should they be stolen and subsequently recovered then the Gardai will be able to hand them over to their rightful owners.  Check out www.propertymarking.ie or James on 052 9152895.   Never, ever post holiday snaps on Facebook while you are still away, it seems that if you are broken into,  the insurance company may not have to pay out, check the small print on your policy.  Lock windows and doors even if you are only going out for a few minutes.  Put handbags in the boot not the passenger seat and lock the door when you’re in the car.  Once 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 €66.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month.  Please note that this fee is payable in a lump sum each year after year one. Committee members are Sean Broderick, Micheal O’Kelly N.T., Seamus Stack, Mossie Gleeson, Kathleen Collins, Mary McArthur, Buddy and Brenda Barry, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Mary Jo O’Connell, James Joy, Denis Collins, Marian Harnett.

MOLADH GO DEO LE DIA:  Much of the past fifty years is captured in a book especially complied to mark the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Church of the Assumption, Abbeyfeale. The book contains many wonderful coloured photographs that show off the splendour of the Church, its stained glass windows and general embellishment.   The title of the publication is Moladh go Deo Le Dia. (Praise be to God forever). Price €10. The book is available in O’Donoghue’s, Marguerite’s, Ann Lyons’ Moss Harnett’s and following Mass.

OFFICE MOVE: Please note that the Abbeyfeale Office of West Limerick Resources has relocated to St Ita’s Hall, Convent Street, Abbeyfeale.  If you have any enquiries, please call to the office and speak to Nora or you can call Mary on 087 9382883.

RURAL SOCIAL SCHEME RECRUITING POTENTIAL PARTICIPANTS: West Limerick Resources is compiling a list of individuals interested in joining the Rural Social Scheme (RSS). Participants on the scheme work 19.5hrs per week and receive a top up payment from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. To participate on the scheme you must fulfil the following criteria: Be actively farming over 1 hectare of land; Have a valid herd number; Proof of application for the EU Basic Payment Scheme for the current year and be in receipt of Farm Assist, Jobseekers Allowance or other qualifying payments.  Spouses, children, brothers and sisters of the herd owner can also join the scheme if they meet relevant criteria.  Only one person allowed per herd number.  For further details contact Tom or Michelle at West Limerick Resources on 069-61316 or Email:  [email protected].  Successful eligible candidates will be placed on a panel from which vacancies will be filled.

PARISH OFFICE HOSTS MEETINGS: Narcotics Anonymous meet every Monday night @ 8pm in the parish Office.  Al-anon meet on Tuesday evening @ 8pm. A.A.  Meet every Wednesday afternoon @ 3pm, Friday night @ 8pm and Sunday mornings @ 10am.  These organisations are a great voluntary support to many people and we are happy to host their meetings in our parish office.

KNOCKANURE RAMBLING HOUSE:    Knockalougha, Duagh on the third Tuesday of every month.

HOLY SPIRIT PRAYER MEETING:  Janice and Moss Carraig will lead the Holy Spirit Prayer meeting on the second Sunday of each month in the Desmond Complex.  Further information on 087 6174639.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR BEREAVEMENT: Abbeyfeale Bereavement Support Group Tel. 068/31230 or 068/51984 or 068/31262.

VINCENT DE PAUL SHOP: If you have an hour or two to spare why not consider volunteering your time to help the work of St Vincent de Paul.  If you are interested contact Fr Tony on 087-2600414.  The Abbeyfeale shop will open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday each week between 10-4pm.  Further information 087 1213560.

MEDJUGORJE: 7 nights October 10-17. Contact Annemarie Tydings, 0871013804.

LISTOWEL PADRE PIO PRAYER GOURP PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK Sunday 16th September, at 7.30am. contact Bernadette on 0876019474.

COMMUNITY Centre Knockanure: Rambling House on Thursday, September 6 at 9 pm in Knockanure Community Centre.  Everyone is welcome.  Please come along and enjoy a great night of music, song and dance.  Admission free.  Refreshment will be served.  Contact Ann Flavin at 086-3090948.

ANAM CARA KERRY:  The organisation that supports bereaved parents, is holding a Bereavement Information Evening on Tuesday, September 11 at 7:30pm in the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee, Co. Kerry. This is a free event and open to all bereaved parents. As Anam Cara will need to confirm numbers for teas, coffees, etc, please RSVP to [email protected] before Monday, September 10 or call the Information Line on 085 2888 888.

ARDFERT RETREAT CENTRE (0667134276) Ballyheigue Pattern Day: Saturday, September 8 Adoration at Ardfert Retreat Centre, 1 – 4.00pm. Annual Gathering for Parish Contact People: Wednesday, September 12 from 7.30 – 9.30pm.  Fall Adult Religious Education Programme: Fr. Sean Sheehy, Topic: What does God want me to do with my life? This is an 8-session course, Wednesdays – beginning September 19.  Parental Grief Retreat: Caroline Ni Dhuinn, Emmaus Ministry for Grieving Parents USA, Saturday, September 29 from 9 -6.00pm. www.emfgp.org to register or call 7125129.

THE IRISH CANCER SOCIETY’S:  National Conference is being held in the Clayton Hotel, Silver Springs, Cork on Saturday, September 22 from 10am –4pm.

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