By Peg Prendeville

“SEASON of mists and mellow fruitfulness!

Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun;

Conspiring with him how to load and bless

With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eaves run;”

I am usually giving out about the weather so it is great to be able to say how glorious it is these days. I was in Killarney on Sunday and it was great to see so many people out walking and hiking around the many walks in the area. We walked/climbed the back of Torc mountain which is 535 metres high. It was tough going but so refreshing to reach the top and look out over the town and the lakes.

On Saturday next September 15th there will be a gathering of all the Diocesan Synod delegates in Limerick. On the following Thursday, 19th, PPC chairpersons will gather with others to hear the outcomes of the synod process. All this means that during October, parishes and parish leaders will have lots of new information about how we are moving as a diocese.

A bereavement information meeting will be held in Milford Care Centre, Castletroy, Limerick on Monday October 17th 2016 from 7.00pm – 9.00pm (Registration from 6:45pm). This event gives parents an opportunity to hear an experienced bereavement professional talk about the many challenges their family may face after the death of a son or daughter. Please note this event is open to all bereaved parents, regardless of the age of their child or the circumstances of their death.

The October meeting of the Ballyhahill/Loughill ICAwill take place on this Wednesday night at 8.15 pm and it will have a ghostly theme about it as we are all challenged to have a Halloween story ready.  Newcomers always welcome.

Ballyhahill N.S. is having a bag packing day in Tesco, Abbeyfeale on this Saturday 15th October next and would greatly appreciate your help for a couple of hours.  Any past pupils, past parents, guardians or grandparents who are available to pack that day will be welcome. Please contact Fiona at (087) 7434946 if you can help.  Thank you.

I liked the flowing prayer which was in the L/B parish notes last week.

Prayer for the week.

God of all seasons, we thank you for Autumn.

We thank you for the touch of coolness in the air that gives us a new burst of energy,

for the colouring of trees that shows the creativity of the Divine Artist,

for the falling leaves that reveal the strength of the branches,

for the hues of fields that bring peace to our souls,

for the smiles on pumpkins that bring joy to children,

for the fall harvest which that brings us gratitude for the bounty of our land,

for this change of seasons that reveals the circle of life.

God of all seasons, as you transform the earth,

transform us by your Spirit.

Amen.  – Doug Leonhardt, S.J.