by Marian Harnett
PROLOGUE: Lent can be more than a time of fasting; it can be a season of feasting. We can use Lent to fast from certain things and to feast on others. It is a season in which we can: FAST from judging others; FEAST on the Christ within them. FAST from emphasis on differences; FEAST on the unity of life. FAST from apparent darkness; FEAST on the reality of light. FAST from thoughts of illness; FEAST on the healing power of God. FAST from words that pollute; FEAST on phrases that purify. FAST from discontent; FEAST on gratitude. FAST from pessimism; FEAST on optimism. FAST from worry; FEAST on divine order. FAST from complaining; FEAST on appreciation. FAST from negatives; FEAST on affirmatives. FAST from unrelenting pressures; FEAST on unceasing prayer.
DEATH; We offer our sympathy to the family Agata Bajak whose funeral took place on Tuesday. May she rest in peace.
NEWCASTLEWEST REPAIR CAFE: Coming soon – a new free series of environmental talks and workshops in the Weigh House, Market Yard, Newcastle West. This series is open to attend to anyone in the community looking to learn about recycling, biodiversity, the natural world and more. Taking place on the last Wednesday of the month from March onwards. Opening shortly, further information Andi at [email protected]
CONGRATULATIONS: Congratulations to all the children who received the Sacrament of Confirmation on Friday. Sincere thanks to all our teachers for their wonderful preparation of the young people. Thanks to all who helped with music, singing and in preparing the church for the celebration.
TOY SHOW APPEAL: Groups working with and supporting children are being invited to apply for funding from the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal. Following the success of the appeal during the Late Late Toy Show more than €3.6 Million is being made available under two grant rounds. Community Foundation Ireland, which is overseeing the distribution of grants has published criteria to guide organisations in their applications, please click contact WLR for further information. The closing date for applications is on the 14th March 2024.
The two rounds are: Community Grants of between €10,000-€20,000 for local groups working with vulnerable children. Impact Grants of €20,000-€50,000 for larger projects by groups with annual income exceeding €500,000.: It was lonesome to hear that Saoirse Ruane whose appearance on the Late Late Show was the spark that set the Toy Show Appeal in motion has died. May she rest in peace, her name will go down in the annals of fundraising for children.
- PATRICK’S DAY PARADE: The Parade sets off from Mountmahon at 4pm on Sunday next celebrating 30 years of Fleadh by the Feale ‘‘Fleadh le cheile, Manaistir Na Feile’’. Prizes for: Best Window, Best Float, Most Festive Lady, Best Dressed Family, Best Blinged Bike, Best Blinged Buggy. To enter the parade contact Kathleen 087 6253154, Michael 087 9639775, John 086 3165848 or Francis 087 6391305. Music, Drumming circle, face painting, candy floss, and much more. Join the fun and support local.
FEALE CRAFTERS ARE BACK: The Square, Saturday, March 16.
GLÓRACH THEATRE: PRO Lorcan Curtin writes; “ The last cry of the Banshee was heard at the Glórach on Friday 2nd March as the Abbeyfeale Drama Group finished their run of the wildly successful play, The Banshee of Crokey Hill. The play drew crowds from far and wide, and it was no surprise given the quality of the acting, reaching stratospheric levels on each night. We wish to acknowledge all involved, from the acting, to the directing, sound and light, backstage crew and front of house crew, who made the whole production such a success. Once again, it was a pleasure to host ye at the Glórach, and looking forward to many great productions in the future.
Technical issues beyond our control meant that we could not screen the critically acclaimed Korean/American film, Past Lives. To say we were disappointed would be an understatement, but the feedback in relation to screening films at the venue has been very positive and we look forward to showing a few films again in the near future.
The tradition of drama is very healthy in this part of the world, and this week we are looking forward to hosting the Abbeyside Players as they bring a new comedy to the venue, God rest his Soul. Written by Waterford man John Hank Regan, the play had a very successful opening night in Rockchapel at the end of February, and the group are hoping to replicate the success they had last year with the Déise authors play Tearing and Dragging. With a cast combining a mixture of fresh faces and experienced stage hands, and under the expert direction of Angeline O’Donnell, the comedy is sure to bring a well needed laugh to all who attend. The play opens on this Wednesday, March 13th, with further dates on the 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd and 24th. Curtains up at 8 pm, and booking is essential at 0871383940.
Bingo every Monday 8pm.
CREATIVE EASTER CAMPS: Children aged 5-12. Tuesday –Friday, April 2-5 from 10-12 noon. Book on 068 22212. €20 per child. Kerry Writers Museum, Listowel. Brosna Hall Easter Camp: Junior Infants to Fourth Class March Monday 25-Thursday 28 from 9.30 – 12.30pm..Arts and Crafts, Games, Music and Dance, Drama, Storytelling, Sports. Further details from Sarah 086 8668156 [email protected]
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.
ABBEYSIDE PLAYERS: “God rest his soul” A comedy by John Hank Regan is in the Glórach,. Coming Wednesday, March 13, Thursday 14, Friday 15, Thursday 21, Friday 22 and Sunday 24. Admission €15. Booking 087 1383940.
‘WHY I HAVEN’T MET OPRAH YET? :Dee Keogh brings her acclaimed one woman show to Kerry Writers’ Museum on Wednesday March 20th before it premiers in New York. Why I haven’t Met Oprah Yet? is Dee’s journey to meet her idol, the legendary Oprah Winfrey. Dee writes to Oprah regularly in the hope of receiving a positive result. With her Dublin humour, coupled with her unwavering belief that dreams do come true.This show will bring you to the edge of your seat, excite and delight the audience through the highs and lows of pursuing a dream. It will challenge laws of attraction, the power of having a vision, and pursuing a goal. You will come away with new insights and an invitation to trust and to follow your own dreams. Doors open at 7.30 pm, performance at 7.45 pmTickets €10, available from the museum box office on 068 22212.
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.
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. A Jungle Challenge Fundraiser with Nora Collins who along with FAI schools coach Pat Fitzgerald is running a Summer camp for U6 – U12’s from Monday, March 25 – Wednesday, March 27 from 10 – 1pm. Registration at the clubhouse on Friday, March 15 from 6-7pm. €30 per child. Contact Nora 087 6568300. Fundraising Committee; Joe Weir 087 4545434, Maurice O Connor 087 4121153, Sandra Murphy 0872295573, Pat Fitzgerald 0830691062.
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 15 to Eddie Lee. 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. Book 087 6926746. Proceeds from the first night are going to be donated to the Carol Liston fundraiser. Not suitable for children.
BLOOD DONATIONS: 3,000 units needed per week to maintain the national blood supply. Phone 1800222111 for details of local clinics. The hospital requirements are 6% higher than this time last year.
DAFFODIL DAY: Friday, March 22.
SWIM IN GREEN: Fundraiser in aid of Ballybunion Sea and Cliff Rescue on Monday, March 18 with the Ballybunion Dippers swimming group.
SPRING BREAK: A great break that won’t break the Bank. Sunday 28th April, – Thursday 2nd May. Will those who have already given in their name confirm booking with €50 deposit this week. We have a few places available going to print. We will start off our holiday with breakfast in Tuam, Galway then onto Knock, Co. Mayo where we will have a break. Our last break will be in Sligo before arriving at The Great Northern 4 * Hotel, you can relax, go for a walk around the hotel or avail of complimentary use of the Leisure Centre before we have dinner, four course with an excellent choice of menu. After dinner we will go to the Atlantic Ballroom in our hotel where you can enjoy dancing or relaxing listening to the great music being played. After a full Irish Breakfast we will board Fitzpatick’s bus traveling to a different place and doing something different each day. We will be picking up passengers, Listowel the Square, Abbeyfeale bus stop opposite the Church, NCW bus stop opposite Longcourt Hse Hotel, Rathkeale House Hotel, Adare Heritage Centre and the South Court Hotel Limerick. For more information and booking contact Maureen 087 9845102.
FUNDRAISER FOR DROMTRASNA N.S.: Dance to Olivia Douglas at The Devon Inn on April 18. Doors open 8pm. DJ 8.30pm – 9.30pm, Olivia on stage 9.30pm. Tickets €20. Further information 085 1590520.
WOMENS WELL-BEING GROUP THROUGH HORSES: Sunday mornings, Re connecting to yourself, slowing down, ground based, no horse riding, no horse experience needed, Fitzgerald’s Equestrian Centre. Contact Caitriona 085 2642374/[email protected]
RAMBLING HOUSE:
DRAW FOR NEW PEUGEOT: West Limerick Sports Complex hope to purchase a 2 acre site and are running a draw for a new car. Tickets available on 069 77551 or www. wlsc.ie
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.
ALERT: Limerick City and County Council advice Road Users and Businesses that Water main Replacement and Road Pavement Works are taking 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.
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.
SET DANCING CLASSES: Set dancing classes are held in Ballyhahill Hall at 8pm; Marian Hall Moyvane with Timmy Woulfe on Monday’s; Con Colbert Hall Athea at 9pm, on Tuesday’s, and Fr. Casey’s Clubhouse Abbeyfeale at 8.30pm on Wednesday’s.
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/
YOGA CLASSES: Yoga classes are held in Fr. Casey’s Club house every Monday evening from7-8.30pm 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/
LOUGH DERG PILGRIMAGES: Three Day Pilgrimages begins Friday, May 31 until Thursday 15th August. https://www.loughderg.org/2024season/
FATIMA: Led by Fr. Noel Spring – Travel Date: 10th – 15th May 2024. 4 Star Hotel Fatima Group Leader Maureen Harty: 066-7131328 Should anybody be interested contact directly at Barters Travelnet, Cork. 021 4851700 or email Karen [email protected]
MARRIAGE: Worldwide marriage encounter weekend will be held in the Focolare Centre Prosperous, Co. Kildare, Friday 26th Apr.-28th Apr.’24. Register online www.marriageencounter.ie
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.
CONGRATULATIONS to Johnny Cronin dance teacher and his pupil Holly Fealey a native of Brosna, she performed a solo dance on, An Ríl Deal, on TG4 recently.
MESSAGE FROM MAUREEN: A very sincere thank you to everyone who posted stamps, dropped off stamps and candles at the River Island Hotel, Castleisland and Fitzpatrick’s bus hire office. Candles can be dropped off at Fit for you alterations shop opposite the Church corner Boherbue and Sewing shop in Church town just above Hunt’s shop. Again thank you to everyone. God Bless. Maureen 087 9845102.
ST.ITA’S DAY CARE AND SHELTERED HOUSING: Meals on Wheels – Available to Everyone. Collect from the Centre or have it delivered. Monday, March 11 Pork Chop or Chicken stuffed with Black Pudding. Tuesday, March 12 Bacon and Cabbage or Beef Burger. Wednesday, March 13 Chicken Curry or Braised Steak. Thursday, March 14 Glazed Ham or Turkey Burger. Friday, March 15 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..
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.
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.
Lection Divina will take place after Mass on Tuesday Mornings in the Blessed Sacrament Church during Lent. All are welcome. Mass Intentions for the coming week: Wednesday 10am Thomas & Jerry O’Connor, Knockbrack Lower Knocknagoshel. Intentions for next weekend Saturday 6.30pm Peter Healy, The Hill. Ned & Peg Leahy, The Millstream and their son Emmet and their daughter Ita. Jeremiah McCarthy, Riverview Knockbrack 2nd Anniversary. Sunday 10am Tom Scanlon, Athea . 12noon Norma Healy Dromtrasna South. Months Mind. St Patrick’s Day: Next weekend we celebrate St Patrick’s Day. Masses will be celebrated at the usual times – Vigil Mass Saturday 16 th at 6.30pm. Sunday 17 th Mass at 10.00am and at 12noon. The Senior Choir will sing the Sean O’Riada music setting of the Mass in Irish at this Mass. All are welcome. St Patrick’s Day Parade begins at 4.00pm. 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 8pm. 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