by Marian Harnett

PROLOGUE:  Never be afraid to raise your voice for honesty and truth and compassion agains injustice and lying and greed.  If people all over the world would do this, it would change the earth.  William Faulkner.

DEATH:  We offer our sympathy to the family of Frances Herbert Lynch, The Orchard whose funeral took place on Tuesday. May she rest in peace.

FUNDRAISING CONCERT: Denis Curtin and his band will give a concert in the Devon Inn Hotel, in aid of a Defibrillator for Meenkilly N.S. The concert will take place on Saturday, March 2nd. Doors open at 7.45pm. Tickets €25. Your support is greatly appreciated.

LISTOWEL RAMBLING HOUSE:  Kerry Writers’ Museum on Thursday, February 29 at 8pm.  Open to all, bring your own instruments, stories, poems and songs and share with everyone.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:  The Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage (Thursday 20th to Tuesday 25th June 2024) is back in its full capacity for 2024, bringing a full team of workers and assisted pilgrims. If you would like to be a volunteer helper on the pilgrimage, please contact the organizers of the pilgrimage at the Limerick Diocesan Office on 061-350000.

LOCAL ENTERPRISE WEEK:  March 4-8.

TRÓCAIRE LENTEN CAMPAIGN 2024:[ This year’s Trócaire campaign focuses on Malawi and on the work being done to support and empower local people and communities. We hear the story of Malita and her family, who are on the front of the Trócaire box this year. Malita and her family must make a one-hour trip up to five times a day to collect water. Malita is facing the effects of the climate crisis on a daily basis. When you listen to the people of this region, you hear the very real ways in which climate change is affecting their daily lives. You hear that the climate is less predictable now and that the lack of trees on the mountain and the land makes them vulnerable to crop failure and contaminated water. Malawi is one of the least developed countries in the world and has been badly affected by climate change. The people of Malita’s village, and others like them, are not the ones who have caused this situation – but they are paying the highest price. Please support Trócaire in helping communities develop sustainable access to clean, safe and reliable water supplies.

GLÓRACH THEATRE:  Bingo every Monday 8pm.  “The Banshee of Crokey Hill” by the Abbeyfeale Drama Group on was a total sell out and two further dates have been added on February 29 and March 1.   Doors open 7pm, Curtain 8pm.  Booking 0871383940.  These extra nights will also sell out fast so make that call.

VOCATIONS DISCERNMENT DAY:  The Poor Clare Sisters, Galway are hosting a Monastic Experience Day at the Poor Clare Monastery, Galway. The event will take place from 10am to 5pm on Saturday, March 2. The day is designed to help those who may be exploring the possibility of a religious vocation to find out more about the Poor Clare way of life. Anyone wishing to book a place should email [email protected]

ABBEYSIDE PLAYERS:  “God rest his soul” A comedy by John Hank Regan is on the way to the Glorach, watch this space.

FUNDRAISER FOR CAROL LISTON O’CONNOR AND FAMILY:  Susan Browne Singers, Liam O’Connor Show with Brian Kennedy Devon Inn Friday, April 12.  Doors open 8pm, Admission €25.  Check availability with Devon Inn 069 84007 before travelling.

NEWCASTLEWEST REPAIR CAFE:  Opening shortly, further information Andi at [email protected]
JUNGLE CHALLENGE FUNDRAISER FOR ALL WEATHER PITCH:  This year we are hoping to get started on a much needed all weather facility for the town and with that came the idea for the “Jungle Challenge” fundraiser.
This event which will take place in the Devon Inn on the 27th of April is based on the massive hit show “I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here” and will see 24 very brave local “celebrities” going toe to toe for the title of King or Queen of the Jungle.
Thanks to all so far for your efforts and generosity.
Fundraising Committee
Joe Weir 087 4545434
Maurice O Connor 087 4121153
Sandra Murphy 0872295573
Pat Fitzgerald 0830691062.

GLÓRACH FILM:  The Korean/American film ‘Past Lives’ will be our next screening on Sunday, March 10th.  Oscar nominated, the film examines the story of Nora and Hae Sung, classmates at primary school in Seoul, who have their deep friendship ended abruptly when Nora’s family emigrates.  Two decades later, they meet in New York and over one week address notions of chance and circumstance and the choices people make that create a life.  The reviews have been extremely positive, make sure not to miss this one.  The film will commence at the same time of 7.30 pm, and tickets can be booked at 0871383940, www.glorachabbeyfeale.com or at the door on the evening.

SOCIAL DANCING IN DUAGH SPORTS AND LEISURE COMPLEX;  There’s a fine crowd and a lovely floor in North Kerry’s newest dance venue every Friday night from 9-11pm.. Dancing on Friday, March 1 to Noreen Nash.  Admission €10.

‘TURNING MAMMY’:  Athea Drama Group’s offering for 2024 is ‘Turning Mammy’ by John McDwyer – it will be on stage in the hall in Athea on Saturday, March 16, 17, 18, 21,23 and 24. Further information as it comes to hand in the coming weeks.

SPRING BREAK:   Maureen Finnegan is off on holidays and she says “Are you interested in a relaxing break and seeing some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland?   We have arranged for four nights and five days to stay in the Great Northern 4* Hotel in Bundoran, complimentary use of the Leisure Centre, dancing every night in the Atlantic Ballroom to great music. Bed and Breakfast dinner choice of menu after we return from our very interesting and exciting day trips visiting three different places with three totally different things to do.  So don’t forget to pack the swim suit and those comfortable dancing shoes. We will require a deposit of €50 per person to confirm your booking.  For more information and booking please contact Maureen 087 9845102”.

BIBLE: Lenten Scripture Reflection: A Journey through the Bible, every Wednesday until  Wednesday March 27th in the Library, Athea from 7.30pm-8.30pm. Followed by a cuppa and chat. Presented by Pat Higgins 087 2034626 and Sean O Mocháin 087-2321375.

EASTER BASKETBALL CAMP:  The camp from Monday 25 – Thursday March 28 caters for senior infants to third class from 9.30 – 12.30pm and fourth class to sixth class from 1-4pm.  To book email [email protected] or call James on 087 9622263.

ALERT:   Limerick City and County Council advice Road Users and Businesses that Water main Replacement and Road Pavement Works will take place from the Church of Assumption in Abbeyfeale to Mount Mahon. Some days there is more of a hold up than others, if you can, leave plenty of time to get through town.

NIGHT AT THE DOGS:  Scoil Mhuire Knocknagoshel National School has a Night at the Dogs at The Kingdom Greyhound Stadium on Friday March 8th. Tickets are available online at: http://www.knocknagoshelns.ie from the school office on 068 46011, from local ticket sellers and from Walsh’s Bar in the village.

DAFFODIL DAY:  Friday March 22nd.

GETTING MARRIED IN 2024 CHURCH REQUIREMENTS:  While a couple need only give three months’ notice of their intention to marry it is common practice for a couple to book the church a long time in advance. It is important to contact the Parish Office to make sure that the church is available on the day you require. Arrange to meet the priest of the parish. The meetings of the couple with their priest are a key part of the preparation process. These meetings are an opportunity for a couple to reflect on what Christian marriage asks of them. The priest will also advise the couple about the various documents that are required before the marriage can take place. A person getting married in the Church will need to get a Certificate of Baptism from the parish in which they were baptised and a Certificate of Confirmation from the parish in which they were confirmed. These documents should be issued no less than six months prior to the date of marriage. Letters of freedom are also required. The priest will explain to the couple how they can obtain these documents. The rules governing freedom to marry in the Catholic Church can be complicated for some individuals. The best advice is for all couples to contact their local priest well in advance to talk through the documentation required. It is advised that all couples planning to get married in the Church should attend a Pre-Marriage course. This should be done shortly after a couple get engaged.

DRAMA AND WELLBEING CLASSES 5-12 YEAR OLDS:  Glórach Theatre started on February 3 from 3 – 4.30pm and continuing every week.

SOCIAL DANCING CLASSES:  Waltzing, jiving etc. have started in the Plaza Hall, Listowel for Beginners: 7.00-8.00 pm, advanced: 8.00-9.00 pm. For bookings, please contact 087 7541631.

ST JOHN’S THEATRE, LISTOWEL: March 1st at 11am, free Irish session for Seachtain Na Gaeilge, with Gabriel Fitzmaurice and Dara O Cinneide, then at 8pm Comedy- Murder She Wrote; Saturday  2nd to Wednesday 6th Theatre, Big Maggie by Listowel Drama group at 8pm; Friday 8th at 12.30pm art exhibition- Women in View and on Saturday., 9th Big Maggie in Irish. Tickets for all events can be booked from website stjohnstheatre.ie or by calling Box Office 068 22566.

SET DANCING CLASSES: Set dancing classes are held in Ballyhahill Hall at 8pm; Marian Hall Moyvane on Monday’s; Con Colbert Hall Athea  at 9pm, on Tuesday’s, and Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse Abbeyfeale  at 8.30pm on Wednesday’s.

DESMOND COMPLEX FILM CLUB:  ‘Anatomy of a Fool’ – A Crime//Drama/Courtroom thriller which commences at 8pm sharp.  Come earlier and enjoy a glass of wine, a mineral, tea/coffee and some tasty nibbles.  Admission 8 euros.  Further information   087 5877970.

VINTAGE RUN: Knockdown Vintage Club Annual Charity Vintage Run takes place on Sunday,March 24.  This year the proceeds are in aid of two charities: Mid-Western Cancer Foundation UHL, and Parkinson’s Association of Ireland. (Mid-West Branch).

RADIO MARIA: Radio Maria is a Catholic radio station, available via Saorview on television, – Saorview channel 210. It can also be listened to via their website radiomaria.ie   Each day they have Mass, Rosary and other prayers, and Christian music and hymns. Also,  discussions and talks on all aspects of the Christian faith and the Catholic Church. It is run by many dedicated people and deserves our support. Tune in and find programmes that you enjoy.

KATIE GOING ON TOUR:  Written by Therése Prendeville, granddaughter of the great MaryJo whose appearances on stage in Abbeyfeale back in the day are the stuff of legend “Katie” will be in St. John’s on Thursday, April 11, the Schoolyard Theatre, Charleville on Saturday, April 20 and back in the Glórach on Sunday, April 21.  I saw this play in the Glórach before Christmas and the very thought of it sends shivers down my spine – the storyline and the acting are just so powerful.  Take any chance you get to see it.

CHARITY: Mark Fleming Memorial Charity, Cars and Coffee Meet:  A cars and coffee meet will take place at the Ferry Car park, Tarbert on Sunday April 21st,ample parking for spectators, with Tarbert Power Station allowing the use of their car park.  All proceeds of this event will be for the SADS department in The Mater Hospital.

BOOKS: Ireland Reads; https://www.irelandreads.ie/

RADIO MARIA: Catholic Station via Saorview on Television 210 channel.  Also listen via website radiomaria.ie.  Daily Mass, Rosary & other Prayers, music & hymns.

YOGA CLASSES:  Yoga classes are held in Fr. Casey’s Club house every Monday evening from-8.30pm with Mike Houlihan.

JOB: Lifeguards Wanted: Are you interested in working as a Beach Lifeguard? Clare, Fingal and Limerick are currently looking for lifeguards for the 2024 period. You will be responsible for performing rescues, administering first aid and the supervision of activities at the beach amongst other duties. For further information about these roles and many more can be found at https://watersafety.ie/careers/

INEC GATHERING TRADITIONAL FESTIVAL:  The Gathering Traditional Festival of Music and Arts February 28 to Sunday, March 3 at the INEC Killarney.

DRAMA: Kerry Drama Festival at Castleisland 1st to 9th of March.

SHORT STORY COMPETITION:  The Dingle Lit Short Story Competition, in partnership with Dingle Distillery, is open to all writers on the island of Ireland, writing in either English or Irish. Writers are invited to submit previously unpublished work. Entries will be accepted from Monday December 4th 2023, through to midnight on Thursday, February 29th, 2024. https://dinglelit.ie/shortstory/

LOUGH DERG PILGRIMAGES: Three Day Pilgrimages begins Friday, May 31 until Thursday 15th August.  https://www.loughderg.org/2024season/

CAMINO: A group from Athea are hoping to do 100km of the Camino Frances from Sarria to Santiago from June 12-19. Average walk 20km per day, please contact Denise on 086-6095716.

ST.ITA’S DAY CARE AND SHELTERED HOUSING:  Meals on Wheels – Available to Everyone.  Collect from the Centre or have it delivered.  Monday, February 26 Beef Burger or Turkey Steak.   Tuesday, February 27 Bacon and Cabbage or Chicken Fillet.  Wednesday, February 28 Braised Steak or Pork Chop.  Thursday, February 29 Toddy’s home made sausages.  Friday, March 1 Fish of the Day or Meat Alternative.  Please let us know if you require a Gluten Free option.  Price List Soup €1, Main Meal €7,half portion €5.  Plate of Vegetables and Potatoes €3.  Dessert €2.  Contact 068 51850.

PLAY “A Tomb with a View” written by Norman Robbins will be staged in Ballyhahill Hall on four nights in April – 5th, 6th, 12th and 13th..

 

CAREGIVERS COURSE: Recovery Haven Kerry (Cancer Support House) will be hosting a 6 week ONLINE Building Better Caregivers Course commencing March 5th with an introductory session on February 27th. This course aims to support you as you are supporting someone with cancer. Please contact reception 066 7192122.

JANICE CARRIG MINSTRY:  Holy Spirit Prayer Meeting last Sunday of each month at the Desmond Complex at 3pm.  Everyone welcome. The world is so in need of prayers.

‘ROADSIDE’:  A comedy in three acts by the Spike Players, Knocknagoshel in St. Ita’s Parish  Hall in St. Ita’s Parish Hall, Raheenagh Eircode V42 ET85  Friday, March 8 .  Doors open 7pm, Curtain 8pm.  Admission €10.  Reserve tickets 086 1649099.

CHURCH NOTES:  Co Parish Priests of the Pastoral Area:   Fr Denis Mullane

087/2621911 Fr Tony Mullins 087/2600414 Fr Willie Russell 087/2272825 Fr Dan Lane (Retired) 087/2533030 Fr James Ambrose (Retired) Tel 087/7740753.   Divine Mercy Meetings will take place every Monday evening after 7 pm Mass. Baptisms in Abbeyfeale will be celebrated on the first Saturday of each month at 5.00pm. Also, on the second Sunday of the month after the 12noon Mass. Contact the Sacristy 068/51915 during Mass Times.

Mass Intentions for the coming week: Saturday 6.30pm Peg O’Connell, New Street. Kathleen Fitzgerald, New Street Months Mind..  Sunday  12noon Johnny Lane, New Street. Ted Mulcahy, Dromtrasna..  Margaret Quirke Killarney Road 2nd Anniversary. This year we encourage you to do something for Lent, your choice. Whatever you chose either to give up certain foods, comforts or luxuries. Reduce social media or television or take something up instead and form a new habit. The following are suggested as ways of fulfilling Friday penance: Abstaining from meat or some other food;

Abstaining from alcoholic drink or smoking; Making a special effort at involvement in family prayer; Making a special effort to participate in Mass on Fridays; Visiting the Blessed Sacrament; Making the Stations of the Cross; Fasting from all food for a longer period than usual and perhaps giving what is saved to the needy; Helping the poor, sick, old or lonely. Lent is a time where you can make space to pray, read the bible and reflect. The Stations of the Cross is a traditional way of praying during Lent. We pray this familiar prayer to be with Jesus Christ as he travels his final journey from condemnation to crucifixion along the Via Dolorosa out of love for and commitment to us and all of God’s creation. We pray and reflect on the Stations of the Cross because we wish to become close to Jesus, who loves each of us so deeply. We walk this journey to get a glimpse at the heart and mind of Jesus Christ, who is alive today and experiencing the Journey of the Cross wherever our sisters and brothers are suffering throughout the world. We give thanks as we walk this journey. The Way of the Cross has brought hope and the possibility of new life into the dark places of our lives. Journeying with Jesus Christ allows us to become aware of where God is walking with us in our lives, and where we are called to be with others on their journey. All are welcome to join in The Stations of the Cross, on Friday mornings during Lent, beginning at 9.30am. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament: Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place in the Blessed Sacrament Church each weekday during Lent beginning after the 10.00am Mass and continuing until 8pm. If you would like to give some of your time in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, we encourage you to write your name on the timetable which is located at the side of the altar in the main church. Make a promise to the Lord that you will do your best to be faithful to the commitment you make. Lection Divina will take place after Mass on Tuesday Mornings in the Blessed Sacrament Church during Lent. All are welcome.  Adult Choir practice every Wednesday evening at 7.30pm.   Aware Depression & Bipolar Disorder Support www.aware.ie Tel: Freephone 1800 80 48 48 (available 7 days, 10am-10pm). Email: [email protected] Bodywhys Eating Disorders Associations of Ireland www.bodywhys.ie Email: [email protected] 01 2107906. Information and Support for Birth Mothers – whose babies were placed for adoption may be found at www.birthinfo.ie or by calling the relevant section of TUSLA at +353 818 445 500.  Grow Mental Health- Friendly Community based groups for anyone experiencing mental health issue through 12 Step Program of connection, hope, identity by empowering people to nurture their positive wellbeing by supporting personal growth through education, peer support and self-teaching. Based in 33 Henry Street and Croom, several meetings including new meeting on Monday 11-1pm. Contact Michael 086-6063182/Celia 0861526966/Www.grow.ie   Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage is back in its full capacity for 2024, bringing a full team of workers and assisted pilgrims. If you know someone (family member, neighbour, friend etc.) who would like to travel as part of our assisted pilgrim section please let them know. Further information available from Limerick Diocesan Office on 061-350000.

ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT:  Takes place each Friday in the Sacristy in Duagh Church from 3pm until public rosary at 7pm followed by Mass at 7.30pm.  It also takes place in Abbeyfeale Blessed Sacrament Chapel following Mass in the church at 10am and continues until 7pm.  Adoration will be held on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday during Lent.You are invited to commit to an hour by writing your name on the chart which is located on the left hand side railing as you face the altar.

MAYNOOTH: Evangelium Ireland will host its next Apologetics Conference for young Catholics at St Patrick’s College, Maynooth on Saturday, March 16.   Talks & workshops include: The Gift of the Priesthood, Intro to the Theology of Joseph Ratzinger, Christian Marriage, Female Authors of the Catholic Revival, Christian Metaphysics, St Patrick. Mass will also be celebrated. Cost €38 including lunch, refreshments and evening social. View full programme/to register visit www.evangelium.ie or search ‘Evangelium Ireland’ on Eventbrite. Don’t miss this great opportunity to learn and pray with other young Catholics!

USED CANDLES:  Thank you to each and every one of you who have already sent stamps and collected used candles.  Can I please point out that plastic
ornamental candles are of no use.    Please continue the good work and again many, many thanks.  Please mention to the Sacristan in your church about the used candles, the Christmas Wreath candles are only used for that year and new candles are used next year.   God Bless, Maureen   087 9845102.

PARKRUN in Listowel takes place every Saturday morning from 9:30am.

MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGES 2024 1st—8th May 2024 & 18th—25th Sept 2024. Cost €510. For further information contact Tom Collins: 086 8380406. Group Leader: Maura Harksen. Spiritual Director: Fr. Francis Nolan, 11th September for 7 nights.  Return flights from Cork to Dubrovnik, 7 nights in Hotel Dubrovnik. Breakfast & Dinner each day. Full Religious Programme. €879, per person sharing. Optional: Travel insurance and single supplement. Joe Walsh guides and representative throughout. For details & bookings contact: Maura O’Keeffe Harcksen (Tralee) on 087 151 7696 or 066 7127143.

ABBEYFEALE COMMUNITY ALERT: Log onto Hi Digital – the step by step course to learn some digital skills and it’s free.  Ring them on 1800203030.   Whatever you do don’t click on any links that are texted to you.  Once you reach the age of 65 and live alone or with a person/s aged over 65 you are entitled to receive a monitored alarm system. But if you have younger people living in the house who are out for long periods of the day then because you are spending hours alone you are also entitled to the system provided that you are over 65.  The free equipment is provided by Pobal following an application from Abbeyfeale Community Alert, there will be a monitoring fee to be paid from the second year of installation to the installing company of €72.  Please note that this fee has increased by €6 and is payable in a lump sum each year after year one.  Should you not have a landline the installing company Task provide a sim card at a rate of €7.50 per month payable from day one.  Committee members are Michael O’Kelly N.T., Seamus Stack, Mossie Gleeson, Kathleen Collins, Mary McArthur, John O’Sullivan, Billy Quirke N.T., Cllr. Francis Foley, Susan Daly, Catherine Daly, Marian Harnett