By Kathleen Mullane

‘Happy Christmas’ 

Firstly can I take this opportunity in wishing each and every reader (both at home and abroad) of the Athea Newsletter, along with Donal and Lillian and fellow correspondents a very happy and peaceful Christmas and above all enjoy precious time with family.

Well its been a busy week to say the least, with Christmas day almost upon us. ‘Grandparents Day’ on Friday began with a beautiful mass here in the church. The school choir, led by Margaret Carroll on guitar and Tara Finucane on accordion were a joy to listen to. Fr. Duggan said the importance of grandparents in children’s lives was very special, and a huge bonus with more children being collected at schools by grandparents, due to the fact that most parents have to go out to work now. After mass it was down to the school for a tour and what great work has been done there with the addition now of a new ‘sensitivity room’ which helps to bring a calmness to children, it’s fabulous! Teas and all kinds of cakes etc were served by the parents to the huge crowd that attended. Well done to all those who organized yet another great Grandparents Day.

Thanks to all who gave so willingly to the Concern collection at the weekend. A total of €585 was collected.

Congrats to Donal and Lillian on yet another great Journal – an ideal Christmas present for our emigrants.

Sincere congrats and good wishes are extended to David and Michelle Hayes of Templeathea on the birth of their new baby, a little girl they are calling Aoibheann – a new sister for Patrick and Conor. Congrats also to the proud grandparents Rose and Mike Hayes.

A great crowd attended the AGM of the Athea Credit Union on Friday night last in their office. Liz O’Sullivan, Chairperson, addressed the meeting and Eibhlís Geoghegan read last year’s minutes. Des O’Donnell (accountant) complimented the entire staff – front of counter and backroom people who so such great work. Athea Credit Union, he said, was in a very good position and where some Credit Unions have amalgamated Athea is very happy to stay as it is. They are offering loans at good rates and this is what keeps them in such a good position – so give them a call. A dividend of a ¼ of 1% will be paid this year. The Credit Union thanks the support of the Athea community and its surrounds and long may it be with us. Congrats and well done to all those involved.

Teresa O’Halloran had the Athea children’s drama show at the hall on Sunday which was thoroughly enjoyed by parents and all those who attended. Well done to all the kids, they were great and to all those who helped out.

Christmas Eve Mass will be at 7.30pm on this Saturday night preceded by some lovely carol singing by both the adults and schoolchildren’s choirs, so come early