By Kathleen Mullane

‘Lovely Weekend’

Well, a few birthday ‘congrats’ are in order this past week. On Saturday last Margaret Ahern of Lower Athea celebrated her 40th birthday by climbing Carrantuohill no less with some of her friends. Indeed a unique way of celebrating! Best wishes to Margaret on her achievement.

Another birthday celebration  was that of Micheál Brosnan of Upper Athea who celebrated his 70th birthday along with his family with a meal at Leen’s Hotel in Abbeyfeale. A great night was enjoyed by everyone.

Well, it was a busy weekend here in Athea. The fine, dry frosty weather attracted many to the Fair Day on Saturday and tractors, horseboxes etc started to arrive early in the village along with all the various stall people erecting their goods. There was an abundance of ponies, donkeys etc and of course the young kids were delighted with the little Shetland ponies, pups, goats, hens etc. In all it was a very enjoyable day for everyone.

On Saturday night the special ‘Remembrance Mass’ saw a huge crowd attending here in the church. The choir added a very special touch to the ceremony as did the ‘lighting of the candles’ for all those who passed away during the year in the parish. A lovely scroll with all their names hung on the altar. Fr. Duggan also added his own special words. In all a very moving ceremony.

The 3 o’clock remembrance Mass at Holy Cross on Sunday saw a huge crowd in attendance. Thankfully despite the cold it stayed dry. Donal de Barra played some nice tunes on the accordion which added to the atmosphere. Well done to all those who helped out in organizing the altar, chairs, the gazebo etc and to our young people who did the readings and did the serving, helping out Fr. Duggan. Next weekend it will be Templeathea cemetery at 3 o’clock with rosary in Holy Cross at 12.15pm.

There was great excitement up at the GAA pitch on Sunday afternoon when the parish league for the U-6s, U-8s, and U-10s took place. In all great credit is due to the young players, their parents and most of all to the trainers and Coiste na nÓg who put in many hours of voluntary work throughout the football season. They were all delighted to receive their medals. Treats were in order for all of them and with the bitter cold up at the pitch we were all glad to have the hot tea/coffee and eats! Well done to all.