By Kathleen Mullane

‘Eastertime in Athea’

Well, Wednesday night last saw a huge crowd yet again attending the annual Tidy Towns fundraising Fashion Show in the hall. The local models did a great job as did all those involved in setting up the ramp and hall, the music, lighting and so much more. There was a huge amount of spot prizes and well done to all the business people for their help. In all a very enjoyable night. The highlight of course being Fr. Brendan Duggan modeling a lovely man’s suit – well done to Fr. Brendan – he got a good few cheers.

Holy Thursday had a good crowd attending the evening ceremony with the blessing of the Eucharistic Ministers, including 2 new ministers, if anyone else would like to become a minister contact Fr. Duggan or the sacristans. Good Friday again had a large crowd at the Stations of the Cross at 3pm and again at the evening ceremony.

One of the largest crowds ever attended the annual Good Friday “Open Alcoholics Anonymous” meeting at the hall on Friday night. The Ballybunion group hosted the talk session this year and bravely gave their life stories, they’ve come a long way. Thanks to those who organized the teas and cakes etc afterwards. Dr. Murphy and Fr. Duggan also gave an input into the meeting.

The Paschal Fire blazed for the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday night at 9pm Fr. Tim O’Leary was back in the parish and concelebrated mass with Fr. Brendan, a big crowd attended and the choir added a lovely atmosphere.

The ‘Dawn Mass’ at 6am on Easter Sunday morning again saw a nice crowd getting up to Parkana and the Killeens. The Ahern family of Coole are thanked for allowing the mass to be celebrated on their land. Fr. O’Leary said the last mass at the Killeens 20 years ago.

Despite Good Friday being a damp and showery day we all took to our own specific roads to do the big ‘clean up’ in association with ‘Team Limerick Clean Up’ and organized by Athea Tidy Towns. It was great also to see children doing their part. It is hoped that everyone will refrain from throwing rubbish out on the roads, thus helping to keep Athea Tidy.

Athea was “buzzing” on Saturday when hundreds of cyclists passed through Athea in the ‘stage 2’ of Kerry Group Rás na Mumhan. Onlookers stood at various locations all cheering on the cyclists who passed Athea on 3 occasion. The colourful sight and speed was unreal. Paul Kennedy, NewcastleWest was the winner on the day and was presented with his prize up at the GAA pitch where refreshments were served to the weary bodies –  well done to all involved. In all a very busy week in our little village.

Sincere sympathy to Derek Byrne, Gortnagross on the death of his father Joe in Ashbourne, Co. Meath. May he rest in peace.