By Kathleen Mullane

‘Happy St. Patrick’s Day’ 

Well firstly can I wish everyone a very happy St. Patrick’s Day this coming weekend. I’m sure everyone can’t believe how quickly the time has “flown by” since Christmas and now even Easter is almost upon us too. God be with the days when we waited for the cards of St. Patrick’s Day badges to appear in the shops – and we would rush to buy one with our money saved before they were all gone! There were green ribbons to be seen on all the young girl’s hair, while the parents etc all wore something green with a “big spray” of shamrock on their collars. Enjoy the parades in Abbeyfeale, Listowel, NewcastleWest, Rathkeale etc at the weekend.

Well, next Sunday night, 18th, sees the grand fund-raising Concert here in our Church. All the money raised will go towards sending young helpers and invalids to Lourdes in June. It was a great success last time around and no doubt Domhnall de Barra and friends will be putting on a great show. Please give it your support. If anyone wants to give a spot prize it would be very welcome. Admission is €5 for adults or any donations will also be welcome.

What beautiful ‘snow scene’ photos from Damien Ahern in last week’s newsletter. I think the centre one with the ‘Athea’ covered in snow and the houses and Church Spire in the background would make a lovely Christmas card. Maybe the Tidy Towns would get some printed with our printers. Our emigrants are loving the pictures.

Well done to Athea Credit Union who have ‘stood the test of time’ and are celebrating “50 years” of great business. They are such a boost to our parish and beyond and well done to all those who give of their valuable time, help behind the scenes and are so helpful. Here’s to many more years of success!

The death took place this week of Kitty Normile of Knockdown. Many came to pay their respects at the family home on Saturday evening. Burial took place on Sunday after requiem mass in Glin. Sincere sympathy is extended to her son and daughters. ‘May she rest in peace’.

Well hopefully all you ‘Mothers’ and of course ‘Grandmothers’ were spoiled no end over the weekend on ‘Mother’s Day’ – “A Mother is someone who gives and cares, dreams and plans and makes the impossible happen. A Mother is someone who keeps going and giving, caring and helping. She’s too often the last to be ‘thanked ‘ but she’s always first in our hearts. Thanks to all Mothers for their advice and wisdom – and if you haven’t thanked your mother, it’s never too late”.