by Peg Prendeville

The most exciting thing in Knockdown is watching the new shop growing each day. Well done to Ta and his son Paul and the men who are working on it daily. Ta is providing a great service to the local community who benefit greatly from the convenience of a local shop. I look forward to the next few months when it will be open again DV. ( DV = deo volente = God willing)

The past few fine days have been a great blessing to everybody. We took a trip to Clare on Friday to Jim’s sister. Jim was recently given a power chair which has helped us both very much as he can be more independent and I do not have to push. I enjoyed walking along the prom in Lahinch with the sun shining and the waves lapping and everybody in good humour. On Sunday we drove to Baragh and walked on the Greenway. It was such a busy spot with families and children out to enjoy the fine day. There were lots of cyclists also. The Barnagh shop staff were kept on their feet serving food and icecream. We had the lovely company of three of our youngest grandchildren with whom I had a game of crazy golf. It is lovely to be in the company of young children. They keep you on your toes and entertain with their questions and comments. We are blessed.

I went to see KATIE, the play by Therese Prendeville in the Glórach on Sunday night. A very emotional play and so well acted. Well done to all. The tissues came in handy!

Congratulations to Newcastlewest Rugby Football club on winning the North Munster final last Sunday in the U13’s. Three lads from Loughill/Ballyhahill are among the team – Ross Phillips, Noah Daly and Harry Wallace, three great boys who love their sports.

I have yet to hear the cuckoo but I hear he is in the Kerry area so he should be along soon. Then we will have the rattle of the turf machines. And another year flies by.

C.L.G. Áth an tSléibhe 

by Damien Ahern

U8 Blitz

Athea U-8 Football Blitz

Well done to the Athea U8 football team who played their first Blitz of this year’s season last Saturday morning at Pairc na nGael, hosting teams from both Mountcollins and Monagea. There was a fantastic turn out on the day and was played in beautiful sunshine.  Every player gave their all and ensured it was a great morning of Football and fun. Keep it going everyone.

Junior Men’s League 

Athea 0-12 Granagh/Ballingarry 1-10

We were unlucky to lose this match as we dominated for long periods, especially in the first half.  We led at half time  6pts to 3 pts but should have had a lot more scores on the board. Granagh/ Ballingarry upped their game in the second half, but we were the architects of our own downfall by giving away possession, wides kicked when an offload to a better placed teammate was a better option and a missed penalty proved costly for us .

That said the performance was full of energy, with lots of good performances throughout the field. Martin Chawke and Tommy Quaid again led by example in a team that contained 9 players under 21.

Team Tomás Ahern, David O Connor, Martin Chawke, Tommy Quaid, Adam Kelly, Calum Buckley, James Hunt, Eoin O Shea, Micheal Dalton, Shane Mulvihill, Evan Curry, Daire O Shea, James Broderick, T.j.Hunt, Andrew O Riordan, Subs, Rory Cleary, Tadhg Ahern, Eoin Sheahan and Aiden Curry.

Adult Ladies League  Division 2 Round 2
Those that turned up to Athea on Sunday morning were treated to an exciting game of football. Leading 2.1 to 1.2 at half time, Athea were certainly more efficient in front of goals. Athea started the better in the second half and mid way through the second half led by 7 pts but Fr Casey’s continued to fight back. A goal in injury time looked like it secured the win for the Abbeyfeale side but Athea equalised with the last kick of the ball to leave it all square 3.5 to 2.8 .

County Teams
Huge well done to Grace Hunt and Maeve Murphy who were part of the Limerick team who defeated Clare in the Munster final on Sunday. Hard luck to Kayla Sheehy who was involved with Limerick  U14’s in their Munster final v Clare on Saturday where they were narrowly defeated by 1 pt.

Best of luck to Rebecca Collins in their minor Munster final this weekend.

U16 Ladies

Athea U-16 Footballers

Hard luck to our young U16 side who were defeated by Gerald Griffins on Monday evening.

U14 Ladies
Our U14’s hosted St Senans on Wednesday evening and despite conceding an early goal fought back well in the second half. Best of luck in the next round.
Schools Football
Huge well done to Rebecca Collins and Isabelle Barrett who were part of the Tarbert Comprehensive team who defeated Mounthawk in the Munster plate final.

Deepest sympathy
The club would like to extend our sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Gerard Murphy late of Castleisland. Gerdie and his father Vincent have been great supporters of our club over the years – supplying medals, trophies and gear. Thinking of his family, particularly his wife, brother and father at this difficult time. May Gerdie rest in peace.

Clothes Collection
Our next clothes collection will be Monday 13th May. Start that spring clear early. Do not discard any clothing material in household waste. Drop them up to the field. Funds generated from this collection goes to buying new equipment for the season ahead.

Upcoming FIxtures 

U17 Gerald Griffins Glin Athea V Croom Ballybricken Bohermore in Ballyhahill Monday April 29th 7pm in Ballyhahill

Split the Bucket
Congratulations to Kathleen Liston who was this week’s winner of Split the Bucket, going home with the grand total of €340. Thanks to everyone who supported this draw, with the GAA’s half of the pot being donated to the Carol Liston O’ Connor Fund.  The next draw will take place on Monday May 6th. .  Envelopes can be purchased at Dick Whites, Collins Shop, O’ Riordan’s Pharmacy, Athea Credit Union, Brown Joes, Batts,Bingo at Con Colbert Hall on Friday nights, Chinese Takeaway, Gables Grill and during events at Pairc na nGael. Thanks to everyone for your continued support.
Athea Community Games

Emily O’Connor who won Gold in gymnastics at the Community Games

Áine Ahern who won Gold in swimming at the Community Games

Congrats to Áine Ahern (Crawl, Freestyle), Sarah Barrett & Emily O Connor (Gymnastics) who all won Gold in Community Games over the weekend.

Church Gate Collection
Athea Community Games Church Gate Collection will take place on Saturday May 4th. Your support would be very much appreciated.

Annual Sports Day
The Athea Community Games Annual Sports Day will take place on Sunday May 12th from 2 – 4pm, weather permitting.

Rebecca Collins & Isabelle Barrett

Healthy Athea  Good 2 Go

The Athea Good 2 Go Programme continues on Fridays from 10.30am at Con Colbert Hall. Come along and join our leader led group physical activity sessions for Adults aged 55+ followed by cuppa & chat.  For further information contact 087 6103840.

Weekly Card Game 

A weekly card game will commence at the Athea GAA Club House on Tuesdays evening April 30th from 8pm – 10.30pm. All are welcome, please come along and bring a friend.

Left:

Sarah Barrett  who won Gold in gymnastics at the Community Games

by Marian Harnett

PROLOGUE:  Just because you can’t see the air doesn’t mean you stop breathing.  And just because you cannot see God doesn’t mean you stop believing.  Meelin Rockchapel Newmarket Newsletter.

CONGRATULATIONS:  Ailey Lyons  a student in Colaiste Ide agus Iosef has won the title of Shannon Region Junior Chef of the Year.

CHILDREN’S CHOIR: We are hoping to get a Children’s Church Choir off the ground in the parish. We would like offer to all children in the parish the opportunity to sing and it will be open to páistí from 1st to 6th class. We are trying to keep it as simple as possible so as. not to be adding pressure to children, parents or those involved in organising and have it as an enjoyable experience for all. The plan is to sing at a Saturday evening mass once a month. Fr. Tony will organise an information evening for interested parents later this month. We would envisage that the children will be dropped a little earlier than 6.30pm so that they have time to rehearse together. Interested parents and grandparents should contact Noreen Cotter, Riona Curtin, Fr Willie and Fr Tony.

SWIFT DOC:  A new minor injury medical clinic is opening this Wednesday at the Work Hub on Main St.  Contact the clinic on 818009911 Monday-Friday 6-10pm and Saturday and Sunday 9-6pm.

 FUNDRAISING DANCE:  Tony Noonan of Noonan’s Christmas Light is holding a fundraising dance in the Railway on Friday May 3 with music by Olivia Douglas.  All proceeds to the Carol Liston O’Connor fund.

DID YOU KNOW: Did you know that the average age of priests in the Diocese of Limerick is 72? There are 47 priests under the age of 75 in active ministry. There are 41 priests who are over 75 who are retired or retired earlier below that age on health grounds. There are 9 priests serving in the diocese from abroad. No ordination in the diocese in 10 years. There is 1 student for the priesthood in formation for the diocese. There are 60 parishes in the diocese. For information on becoming a priest in the Diocese of Limerick contact Sr. Mara Rose McDonell, O.P. at [email protected]

AN AFTERNOON OF STORYTELLING:  The lady with the best memory for telling stories Daisy Kearney will host an afternoon of storytelling at St. Ita’s Hall, Main St. on Sunday, May 5 from 3pm.  Admission €5.  Tea/Coffee served.

1. PATRICK’S DAY 2024:  Abbeyfeale St Patricks Day committee would like to thank everyone who supported this year’s festivities in any way. We would especially like to thank the following:To Abbeyfeale Community Council to providing volunteers, promoting, and showcasing the eventson social media. To all the businesses in town that decorated windows, entered floats, or put on offers and events. To Feale Crafters for their wonderful displays.  To the people who provided entertainment, Treasa Guerin for the Puppet Show and Balloon Twisting, Drum Dance Ireland, Tara Hartigan, Jenny O Connell and the Ukrainian volunteers who provided face paint, to Ricky O Brien for helping with tattoos, Templeglantine Comhaltas musicians and dancers and James Kennedy for providing PA system.  To Seamus Lane who led the parade and to everyone that took part in the parade.  To the MC Seamus Hogan and to the dignitaries that supported the parade. To all the people that helped in any way to get the square ready for the event especially Jimmy Cahilland Vincent Sheehy. To All Star Deliveries Ltd and Helen Kelleher for providing the stage. To Mary Fitzgerald, Little Nero’s for providing the space, Mikey O’ Connor from Mikeys Fruit and Veg for the canopy and St Marys Boys School for chairs. To everyone that helped with promoting the event, ACC, Marian Harnett, Limerick Leader, Weekly Observer, Kerry’s Eye, Limerick Post, John Morris JDM Photography, Live 95 FM, local businesses, and the public.  To all the teachers and students in the local schools that coloured posters and to Aodhan Cotter for decorating the town windows.To Florrie and Paul Stack for supplying the power. Sponsors: Abbeyfeale Credit Union, SuperValu, Kathleens Food store, AIB, Limerick City and Co Council,  An Siopa Milsean, , Leens Hotel, Spin Doctor Cycles, Danielle O Donoghue, Liam Ruttle, Feale Print and Design, James Harnett, Macs Hardware, Riordan’s Vet, Curtins Vet, Nicky Cotter.  Volunteers: Hilary Collins, Esther O Connell, Ali Rae and Michael, James Harnett, Maurice O Connell, Tracy Cooke, Ann and Colette, Meave and Timmy Cotter and Kevin Foley.  Finally, to all the public that supported the Church gate collection and the overall event. It would not have gone ahead without you. We were overwhelmed with the support this year, not only from the people of Abbeyfeale but the surrounding towns and villages as well. Thank you to everyone who filled in our online survey and who put their names forward to help with the organisation n, we will be in touch with you shortly.  We hope we did not forget to mention anyone who contributed. Looking forward to seeing you all next year for our parade.

LATIN MASS:  LATIN MASS will be offered on Sunday 28th April at 12.00 noon at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Rathass, Tralee by Fr. Bernard Healy. More info from [email protected].

 JIVING LESSONS AT THE RAILWAY:  Friday nights. 8.30pm. No partner required. Contact Tom 087 9360421.

NOREEN BARRY’S PLAYSCHOOL:  Noreen is now taking booking for September.  Call her on 087 2499797 or visit the school at Teach na Féile New Street from 9 – 12 noon.

COFFEE MORNING FOR MISSION IN SOUTH SUDAN:  A huge thank you to all who supported, baked, donated, ran the raffle, served the teas last Saturday.  Fran Leahy will be travelling shortly and all your donations will go directly to be spend on the late Fr. Tim’s Mission.

MARCH FOR LIFE:   Shining a spotlight on Ireland’s abortion law and calling for compassionate support systems for expectant mothers. The March for Life is more than just a demonstration; it’s a collective voice demanding change, unity, and empowerment for women facing challenging choices. Bank Holiday Monday, 6th May, 2:00pm. Marching in Dublin from St. Stephen’s Green to Leinster House. All support welcome.

 BIBLE: By popular demand, Pat Higgins and Sean O Mochain are continuing their ‘Journey through the Bible’ for the next six Wednesdays, 7:30-8:30pm in Athea Library. All are welcome, no experience necessary.

PRAYER FOR IMPROVEMENT IN THE WEATHER: We continue to pray even as the weather improves:  “ Loving God, we pray to you in good times and also in difficult ones too.  We give thanks for the blessings of our countryside.  We pray for fine weather for our farmers and all those who work the land.  Our prayers are for the land to dry up, so cattle can get out and crops sown.  We pray for balance to our seasons and especially now we pray for some sunshine and dry weather.  Amen.”

 INFORMATION EVENT FOR OVER 60’S:  A huge thank you to Dearbhla of West Limerick Resources for the very interesting seminar held last Thursday, April 18 in The Longcourt Hotel, Newcastlewest.   The speakers – Clare Flynn Mental Health Ireland, Karen Fenessy Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme, Michele Gilbourne Solicitor and Anne Goughan Local Link Limerick provided the very large attendance with information which will prove of great use to all of us as we enter our golden years.

FLEADH BY THE FEALE CELEBRATES 30 YEARS: PRO Lorcan Curtin  sends the following:   Preparations are well underway for what promises to be a momentous celebration over the May Bank Holiday weekend as the Fleadh by the Feale festival reaches a significant milestone.  Now in its 30th year, there will be two major concerts over the weekend, with Celtic Steps; the show taking to the stage at Coláiste Íde agus Iosaif on Saturday 4th May, supported on the night by the School Traditional Band, while on Sunday 5th the internationally renowned Mulcahy Family will be playing at the Glórach Theatre.  Tickets available online at eventbrite or in person at the Siopa Milseáin.  Check out our Facebook page for more information regarding these events and also the wide variety of workshops that we will be running.  Another constant has been the Storytelling on Sunday, so plenty of time yet to practice for a song or recitation over the May Bank Holiday Weekend.  Launch night coming up at the Cellar on Friday 19th April, the countdown begins.

FEALE CRAFTERS ARE BACK:  The Square, Saturday, April 27.

GLIN Castle job; Full & Part Time positions available.  Email your C.V. & Cover Letter to [email protected]

LARTIGUE MONORAIL AND MUSEUM:  Last train run at 4pm. The Summer Season will recommence on Monday May 1^st.  Check out the museum too when you visit.  Further information 068 24393.

ALL IRELAND ROSARY RALLY – Knock – June 1st:  The All Ireland Rosary Rally is back this year on Saturday, June 1st in Knock. The day begins with a Marian Conference at 9.30 am in St John’s Centre. Speakers include: Fr Michael Donnelly, Sr Ana Margarita Lanzas SCTJM, and Fr Joseph Maria Deane CFR. Then there will be an opportunity to meet over 20 apostolates from around Ireland from 11.30 am in St John’s Centre. A well-renowned speaker from Miami called Mother Adela Galindo will deliver the keynote Rosary talk at 1 pm in the Basilica. Then there will be the Stations of the Cross outside at 2 pm, followed by the Rosary Procession. Bishop Phonsie Cullinan will be the Main Celebrant of the 3 pm Concelebrated Mass which will include Anointing of the Sick. Confessions are available throughout the day, and there will be rosary and scapular-making workshops in the marquee. For more information and to see a list of buses going from around Ireland please visit www.AllIrelandRosaryRally.com

ALONE the organisation that enables older people age at home are looking for Telephone and Visitation Volunteers to support older people in the community. Call 0801 222 024 or see ALONE.ie/Volunteer for more info.’

RALLY: Ireland International Rally of the Lakes will take place from May 3- 5.

VIGIL FOR PALESTINE The weekly Listowel Vigil for Palestine takes place every Tuesday,6pm – 7pm in The Square, Listowel.  All Welcome.  For information email [email protected]

DESMOND CASTLE NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC:  The Castle NCW will be open until 05 November. Please note these dates may be subject to change. Please check with site in advance of any planned visit.  Open daily  10:00 – 18:00.  Further information 06977408.

MAUREEN’S SPRING BREAK: Don’t forget to pack the swimming togs for use in the Leisure Centre also  the factor 50  for our outings,  please God we will have great weather,  Fitzpatrick’s bus will be picking you up at  Listowel The Square 8.30am.  Abbeyfeale opposite the bus at the bus stop 8.45am.  then on to Newcastle West be there for 9am. and departing at 9.15am – allowing time for the cases and other items to be put in the boot. Rathkeale House Hotel outside the gates 9.30am.  Croagh Bus Stop 9.45am. then onto the Southcourt Hotel Limerick Car Park 10.30am.  We will be stopping in Kilcolgan. Galway for breakfast.  Looking forword to everyone meeting up.  For more information contact Maureen at 087 9845102.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:  The Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage (Thursday 20th to Tuesday 25th June 2024) is back in its full capacity for 2024, bringing a full team of workers and assisted pilgrims. If you would like to be a volunteer helper on the pilgrimage, please contact the organisers of the pilgrimage at the Limerick Diocesan Office on 061-350000.

JUNGLE CHALLENGE FUNDRAISER FOR ALL WEATHER PITCH:  This year we are hoping to get started on a much needed all weather facility for the town.   Fundraising Committee; Joe Weir 087 4545434, Maurice O Connor 087 4121153, Sandra Murphy 0872295573, Pat Fitzgerald 0830691062.

 SOCIAL DANCING IN DUAGH SPORTS AND LEISURE COMPLEX;  There’s a fine crowd and a lovely floor in North Kerry’s newest dance venue every Friday night from 9-11pm..  Dancing to Mike Condon on Friday, April 26.   Admission €10.

BLOOD DONATIONS:  3,000 units needed per week to maintain the national blood supply.  Phone 1800222111 for details of local clinics.  The hospital requirements are 6% higher than this time last year.

RAMBLING HOUSE; Listowel on last Thursday of the month and Knockanure on the first Thursday of the month. Clounmacon Rambling house Friday 12^th of April.

WOMENS WELL-BEING GROUP THROUGH HORSES:  Sunday mornings, Re- connecting to yourself, slowing down, ground based, no horse riding, no horse experience needed, Fitzgerald’s Equestrian Centre.  Contact Caitriona 085 2642374/[email protected]

ROAD TRAFFIC ALERT:    Many of the businesses are badly hit by the lines of traffic through town and no obvious parking places so please keep shopping in Abbeyfeale.

FUNDRAISERS:  Used Postage Stamps and used unwanted candles  in addition to being dropped into Top Stitch, Church St. Newcastle West in the box under the table in the church at the  Sacristy entrance, River Island Hotel, Castleisland, Sparks of Joy Charity Shop Tralee, Fitzpatrick’s coach hire Listowel, Central Clothes Shop in Kanturk, Post Office Newmarket, Thank you sincerely to everyone for sending and dropping off stamps and candles. A big thank you to all of those people accepting these items for us .  This month the Servite Sisters  are celebrating 100 years of their presence in Mynanmar (Burma). We thank God for the wonderful work that they are doing in very difficult times under the military regime since the coup in 2021. Banks have been taken over by the military and the schools are shut so the sisters continue to educate, feed and shelter the young girls in their care.  This would not be possible only for the wonderful help, donations, min marathons, coin jar collection and of course your help with the stamps.

ANNUAL ST PIO AND ST PHILOMENA PILGRIMAGE to San Giovanni and Mugnano will take place from 15th –19th July led by Michael O’Connor and Spiritual Director, Fr Sean Jones. For further information and booking please contact Michael 087 2677656 or JWT 01 2410800. The First Class relic of St. Pio is available from Michael for anyone who would like a blessing. Many Healings , Miracles and graces have taken place through the intercession of St. Pio.

RADIO MARIA: Radio Maria is a Catholic radio station, available via Saorview on television, – Saorview channel 210. It can also be listened to via their website radiomaria.ie   Each day they have Mass, Rosary and other prayers, and Christian music and hymns. Also, discussions and talks on all aspects of the Christian faith and the Catholic Church. It is run by many dedicated people and deserves our support. Tune in and find programmes that you enjoy.

BRUACH NA CARRAIGE ROCKCHAPEL:Bryan O Leary in concert @8pm.  Admission €15 Friday ,April 26  then on Sunday 5th of May @8pm  The Glen Theatre Drama Group Banteer bring their production of John B Keane’s play “The Rain at the end of Summer”.Tickets available on ticketstop.ie or at 087 3236049.

YOGA CLASSES:  Yoga classes are held in Fr. Casey’s Club house every Monday evening from7-8.30pm with Mike Houlihan 0872732591.

JOB: Lifeguards Wanted: Are you interested in working as a Beach Lifeguard? Clare, Fingal and Limerick are currently looking for lifeguards for the 2024 period. You will be responsible for performing rescues, administering first aid and the supervision of activities at the beach amongst other duties. For further information about these roles and many more can be found at https://watersafety.ie/careers/

LOUGH DERG PILGRIMAGES: Three Day Pilgrimages begins Friday, May 31 until Thursday 15th August.  https://www.loughderg.org/2024season/

MARRIAGE: Worldwide marriage encounter weekend will be held in the Focolare Centre Prosperous, Co. Kildare, Friday 26th Apr.-28th Apr.’24.  Register online www.marriageencounter.ie

CAMINO: A group from Athea are hoping to do 100km of the Camino Frances from Sarria to Santiago from June 12-19. Average walk 20km per day, please contact Denise on 086-6095716.

ST.ITA’S DAY CARE AND SHELTERED HOUSING:  Meals on Wheels – Available to Everyone.  Collect from the Centre or have it delivered.     Monday, April 22 Pork Chop or Chicken stuffed with black pudding.  Tuesday, April 23 Roast Beef or Turkey Burger.  Wednesday April 24 Turkey Steak or Pasta Carbonara with Ham and Mushroom.   Thursday, April 25 Baked Ham or Chicken Curry with Rice.    Friday, April 26 Fish or Meat Alternative.  Please let us know if you require a Gluten Free option.  Price List Soup €1, Main Meal €7, half portion €5.  Plate of Vegetables and Potatoes €3.  Dessert €2.  Contact 068 51850.

SPRING CLEAN: nationalspringclean.org – the online resource for An Taisce’s National Spring Clean, Ireland’s nationwide anti-litter campaign which takes place during the whole month of April.  In 2023, 5,640 groups registered to carry out clean-ups throughout the country – Volunteers who participated in the Spring Clean 2022 collected an estimated 2,600 tonnes of litter.

https://nationalspringclean.org/

 JANICE CARRIG MINSTRY:  Holy Spirit Prayer Meeting last Sunday of each month at the Desmond Complex at 3pm.   Everyone welcome. Rosary, Divine Mercy, Scripture and healing.  The world is so in need of prayers.

 40 HOUR FOR VOCATIONS TO THE PRIESTHOOD: in St. Brigid’s Chapel, Church of the Resurrection Killarney: Thursday 5th May beginning at 5 p. m. Finishing with Holy Mass on Saturday 23rd May. 0876884124.

ACCORD CATHOLIC MARRIAGE CARE SERVICE CLG SEEKING MARRIAGE PREPARATION FACILITATORS

If you have a positive attitude towards marriage in the Catholic Church and have the enthusiasm to be part of the Accord team in supporting couples who are preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage Accord wants to hear from you! Successful applicants will receive professional training and will be part of a team.

DANCE: Afternoon Tea dance in Ballybunion on 28^th of April beginning at 3pm. Social Dancing in Ballybunion every Tuesday night at 7.30pm.

SENIOR LINE:   Would you like someone to talk to? SeniorLine is Ireland’s national telephone service for older people open every day of the year 10am-10pm, Freephone 1800 80 4591.

RECOVERY HAVEN: A 6-week course designed to help participants transition from active treatment to living beyond cancer. Begins 23rd April. Contact: 0667192122.

 CHURCH NOTES:  Co Parish Priests of the Pastoral Area:   Fr Denis Mullane

087/2621911 Fr Tony Mullins 087/2600414 Fr Willie Russell 087/2272825 Fr Dan Lane (Retired) 087/2533030 Fr James Ambrose (Retired) Tel 087/7740753.   Divine Mercy Meetings will take place every Monday evening after 7 pm Mass. Baptisms in Abbeyfeale will be celebrated on the first Saturday of each month at 5.00pm. Also, on the second Sunday of the month after the 12noon Mass. Contact the Sacristy 068/51915 during Mass Times.

Mass Intentions:  Saturday 6.30pm Bessie Meehan, Kilmorna . Sunday 10am Denis & Ellen Collins Purt,  their son Denis and Deceased members of the Collins and Geary Families . 12noon Pro Populo Monday 7pm Denis & Kathleen Murphy their daughter Elizabeth son Patrick and his wife.  Nora Bridie O’Shea, Convent Street Anniversary. Adult Choir practice every Wednesday evening at 7.30pm.   Aware Depression & Bipolar Disorder Support www.aware.ie Tel: Freephone 1800 80 48 48 (available 7 days, 10am-10pm). Email: [email protected] Bodywhys Eating Disorders Associations of Ireland www.bodywhys.ie Email: [email protected] 01 2107906. Information and Support for Birth Mothers – whose babies were placed for adoption may be found at www.birthinfo.ie or by calling the relevant section of TUSLA at +353 818 445 500.  Grow Mental Health- Friendly Community based groups for anyone experiencing mental health issue through 12 Step Program of connection, hope, identity by empowering people to nurture their positive wellbeing by supporting personal growth through education, peer support and self-teaching. Based in 33 Henry Street and Croom, several meetings including new meeting on Monday 11-1pm. Contact Michael 086-6063182/Celia 0861526966/Www.grow.ie   Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage is back in its full capacity for 2024, bringing a full team of workers and assisted pilgrims. If you know someone (family member, neighbour, friend etc.) who would like to travel as part of our assisted pilgrim section please let them know. Further information available from Limerick Diocesan Office on 061-350000.

MARCH FOR LIFE: Shining a spotlight on Ireland’s abortion law and calling for compassionate support systems for expectant mothers. The March for Life is more than just a demonstration; it’s a collective voice demanding change, unity, and empowerment for women facing challenging choices. Bank Holiday Monday, 6th May, 2:00pm, 2024. Marching in Dublin from St. Stephen’s Green to Leinster House. All support welcome.

LOUGH DERG PILGRIMAGES 2024:   A pilgrimage to Lough Derg is all about letting go, a time to see one’s daily life as it truly is. The Three Day Pilgrimage provides a kind of breathing space in which people can calmly explore and reflect on where they find themselves in their lives at that moment in time. Part of the spiritual benefits of any pilgrimage is learning to take nothing we have for granted. It is an opportunity to give thanks to God for having the health, the time, and the freedom to do the pilgrimage. It’s a moment to remember one’s loved ones at home and anyone who particularly asked for prayers, and also to say a prayer for fellow pilgrims. Lough Derg is a sacred place apart to bring burdens and leave them behind, to seek healing for wounds and to ask for them to be healed. These are just some of the reasons pilgrims continue to travel to the sacred Island. One Day Retreat. May: Sunday 5th, Monday 6th, Sunday 12th, Tuesday 14th, Saturday 18th, Saturday 25th & Monday 27th. The Three Day Pilgrimage will commence on Thursday 1st June and continue until 15th August (Sunday 13th August is the final day for pilgrims to begin the Three Day Pilgrimage for 2023). Admission €80 | Booking advised | Concessions available for students, seniors and groups. If you have any questions or queries regarding booking, please contact Lough Derg by email: [email protected] or telephone: +353 (0)71 9861518.

PARKRUN in Listowel takes place every Saturday morning from 9:30am.

MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGES: 18th—25th Sept 2024. Cost €510. For further information contact Tom Collins: 086 8380406. Group Leader: Maura Harksen. Spiritual Director: Fr. Francis Nolan, 11th September for 7 nights.  Return flights from Cork to Dubrovnik, 7 nights in Hotel Dubrovnik. Breakfast & Dinner each day. Full Religious Programme. €879, per person sharing. Optional: Travel insurance and single supplement. Joe Walsh guides and representative throughout. For details & bookings contact: Maura O’Keeffe Harcksen (Tralee) on 087 151 7696 or 066 7127143.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY ALERT: Log onto Hi Digital – the step by step course to learn some digital skills and it’s free.  Ring them on 1800203030.   If you are travelling for medical or cosmetic procedures, you should inform yourself of both the risks and benefits of any procedures and discuss the plans with your medical practitioner before committing to any procedure abroad.  If you are having a drink abroad, try to ensure drinks are poured from an original, sealed bottle. Whatever you do don’t click on any links that are texted to you.  Keep your security settings or security software up to date on your computer and change your passwords regularly.  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 €72.  Please note that this fee has increased by €6 and is payable in a lump sum each year after year one.  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.  Committee members are Michael O’Kelly N.T., Seamus Stack, Mossie Gleeson, Kathleen Collins, Mary McArthur, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Susan Daly, Catherine Daly, Marian Harnett