by Marian Harnett
PROLOGUE: Life and time are the best teachers. Life teaches us the use of time and time teaches us the value of life.
DEATH: We offer our sympathy to the family of Kitty Cotter nee Flynn whose funeral took place on Tuesday. May she rest in peace.
AGM OF WEST LIMERICK 102FM: The AGM takes place on Tuesday, April 9 at 8pm in the Longcourt Hotel. We need young blood as well as older people with experience so please step forward and help keep this much needed service on air. There is a huge listenership who depend on it for Sunday Mass and to keep in touch with all the happenings around the area as well as those who enjoy listening to the various genres of music that they might not hear elsewhere. Your local station promotes all the local talent and gives young people opportunities that will stand to them in later life. If we are to keep our community radio station in West Limerick then it must be overseen by a dynamic Board of Management taken from all sides of the community and we are putting out the call now – please attend and take up the positions that need to be filled.
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY, APRIL 7: Devotions start at 2.30pm with Stations of the Cross. Confessions, Divine Mercy chaplet in the Church of the Assumption, Abbeyfeale.. Mass at 3pm.
WELCOME: Welcome: Fr Emmanuel Obi, a member of the St Patrick’s Missionary Society, Kiltegan will be in visiting Abbeyfeale next weekend. Fr Emmanuel worked for five years with the late Fr Tim Galvin in South Sudan. Fr Emmanuel is currently serving as the Vice Rector of the Irish College in Rome. He is assistant to Fr Paul Finnerty, who is the Rector of the College and a priest of the diocese of Limerick. Fr Emmanuel will celebrate the Vigil Mass and one of the Sunday Masses next weekend.
COFFEE MORNING FOR THE LATE FR. TIM GALVIN’S MISSION: Fran Leahy originally from New St., Abbeyfeale and who has gone out to help in the schools that Fr. Tim set up over several years, is returning again in May for a 6 month term. She will be covering all her expenses herself but her friends are planning to hold a coffee morning on Saturday, April 13 from 11am – 2pm in St. Ita’s Day Care Centre to raise funds for the running of the schools. It would be much appreciated if people would do some home baking and maybe donate prizes for a raffle on the day. Further information from Fran on 087 9473333.
LOVE IN THE COUNTRY: Last year’s very enjoyable and popular dating programme “Love in the Country” which aired on RTE2 and followed a number of singletons in their search for love, was such a huge success that the programme makers are now preparing for another series. The producers of the programme are looking for potential singletons, preferable living and/or working in the countryside, and from parts of Ireland that did not feature on the previous programme – hence part of their search in Abbeyfeale and surrounding areas. If interested in finding out how the [programme is put together, or better again taking part, email the casting crew: [email protected] and/or the producer: [email protected] for more info.
NCW FILM CLUB: On Friday 5th April, at 8pm. in the Desmond Complex the following film will be screened ‘Typist Artist Pirate King’. Directed and written by acclaimed British author Carol Morley, this film shines a light on an obscure female outsider artist through an imagined road trip ditch mission to get recognition for her talent, Sunderland born artist, Audrey Amiss persuades her psychiatric nurse to take her on a road trip back to where her story began but with many deviations along the way, will they ever make it? Drama. Commences 8pm sharp €8/card payments accepted, For more information telephone 087 687 7970.
FLEADH BY THE FEALE CELEBRATES 30 YEARS: Hard to believe it but this year the Fleadh by the Feale celebrates its 30th year in existence. A packed itinerary of events lies ahead for the May Bank Holiday Weekend, with our two concerts being a standout. On Saturday 4th May Celtic Steps; The Show will be taking to the stage at Coláiste Íde agus Iosaif, while on Sunday 5th the internationally renowned Mulcahy Family will be playing at the Glórach Theatre. Tickets available online at eventbrite or in person at the Siopa Milseáin. Check out our Facebook page for more information regarding these events and also the wide variety of workshops that we will be running.
WEST LIMERICK SINGING CLUB: The next Singing Session will take place in The Ramble Inn, Church Street on Friday, April 5 from 9pm. Everyone welcome.
NEWCASTLEWEST REPAIR CAFÉ: As repair cafés are volunteer led, we need your help to kickstart this initiative locally, so please email Andi at [email protected] if you are interested in finding out more about how you can lend a hand, full support will be given.
What is a repair café? Repair Cafés are free meeting places and they’re all about repairing things (together). In the Repair Café, you’ll find tools and materials to help you make any repairs you need. On clothes, furniture, electrical appliances, bicycles, crockery, appliances, toys, et cetera. You’ll also find local expert volunteers, with repair skills in all kinds of fields.
Visitors bring their broken items from home. Together with the specialists they start making their repairs in the Repair Café. It’s an ongoing learning process to empower people to fix instead of binning items, and fantastic for keeping more household goods in circulation and out of the rubbish tips! If you have nothing to repair, you can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee. Or you can lend a hand with someone else’s repair job. You can also get inspired at the reading table – by leafing through books on repairs and DIY. There are over 2,500 Repair Cafes worldwide, and you can find out more by visiting https://www.repaircafe.org/en/ Taking place on the last Wednesday of the month from March onwards.
FEALE CRAFTERS ARE BACK: The Square, Saturday, April 13.
GLIN Castle job; Full & Part Time positions available. Email your C.V. & Cover Letter to [email protected]
LARTIGUE MONORAIL AND MUSEUM: Last train run at 4pm. The Summer Season will recommence on Monday May 1st. Check out the museum too when you visit.
POPE’S NEW BOOK: Pope Francis’ autobiographical book entitled “Life. My Story in History,” written with Vatican journalist Fabio Marchese Ragona, set to be released on March 19 by HarperCollins.: The book spans over 300 pages and covers all aspects of Pope Francis’s life, from his relationship with his family, especially with his grandparents, their emigration to Argentina in 1929, a “little derailment” during his seminary period, and World War II with its dramatic atomic epilogue.
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/podcast/the-young-vatican/2018/10/synod-youth-2018-stay-tuned.html
CPR AED TRAINING IN ATHEA: Training for Teens has been arranged for the following dates. Thursday 4th April; Thursday 11th April; Thursday 18th April, time 18.00 – 21.30 each night .Venue: Con Colbert Memorial Hall, please contact Helen Brosnan on 087 6103840.
MAUREEN’S SPRING BREAK: Staying in the Great Northern 4* Hotel, Bundoran ,four nights, five days. Everyone who has booked their place must pay the balance this week please, thank you to those who have already done so.
We will be starting our journey picking up in Fitzpatrick’s bus on Sunday 28th April, in the Square Listowel at 8.30am. Abbeyfeale bus stop opposite the church at 8.45am. Newcastle West 9am. bus stop opposite the Longcourt House Hotel, 9.20am Rathkeale House Hotel then onto the South Court car pack 9.30a.m. We will be stopping in Galway for breakfast, then onto Knock where there will be some free time. Before Bundoran we will have a stop in Sligo. When we arrive at our hotel you can available of complimentary use of the Leisure Centre, go for a walk around the hotel taking in the beautiful scenery of just chill out until dinner. Every evening we will have dancing in the Atlantic Ballroom, every morning after breakfast we will board our bus and take in the magnificent scenery, visiting a different place each day with a different experience. For more information Contact Maureen 087 9845102.
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 organisers of the pilgrimage at the Limerick Diocesan Office on 061-350000.
KNOCK: National Apostolate of Eucharistic Adoration: Annual Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine Sunday 14th April. Details on coach leaving at 7.30am, contact Kathleen 087-7758503.
FUNDRAISER FOR CAROL LISTON O’CONNOR AND FAMILY: Susan Browne Singers, Liam O’Connor Show. Devon Inn Friday, April 12. Doors open 8pm, Admission €25. Check availability with Devon Inn 069 84007 before travelling.
BAPTISMAL TEAM PREPARATION: A Baptismal Team Preparation meeting will take place in Abbeyfeale Sacristy on Tuesday, April 9 at 8pm. Parents who wish to baptise their child in the next few months are encouraged to attend.
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. Fundraising Committee; Joe Weir 087 4545434, Maurice O Connor 087 4121153, Sandra Murphy 0872295573, Pat Fitzgerald 0830691062.
ALONE – the organisation that enables older people age at home are looking for Telephone and Visitation Volunteers to support older people in the community. Call 0801 222024 please or see ALONE.ie/Volunteer for more info.
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.. Admission €10.
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.
RAMBLING HOUSE; Listowel on last Thursday of the month and Knockanure on the first Thursday of the month. Clounmacon Rambling house Friday 12th of April.
.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]
ST PIO Prayer Meeting at Castleisland on Tuesday, April 9th .
DRAW FOR NEW PEUGEOT: West Limerick Sports Complex hope to purchase a 2 acre site and are running a draw for a new car to raise funds. Tickets available on 069 77551 or www. wlsc.ie
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. There’s also talk about a burst pipe so might be safer to drink bottled water.
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION: Pilgrimage to Knock Calling ALL ADORERS of the Blessed Sacrament in Limerick Diocese. The National Eucharistic Adoration Pilgrimage to Knock will take place on Sunday 14th April (weekend after Divine Mercy).
SOCIAL DANCING CLASSES: Waltzing, jiving etc. 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.
ANNUAL ST PIO AND ST PHILOMENA PILGRIMAGE to San Giovanni and Mugnano will take place from 15th –19th July led by Michael O’Connor and Spiritual Director, Fr Sean Jones. For further information and booking please contact Michael 087 2677656 or JWT 01 2410800. The First Class relic of St. Pio is available from Michael or anyone who would like a blessing. Many Healings , Miracles and graces have taken place through the intercession of St. Pio.
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.
FATIMA KERRY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE: Guided Tour Led by Fr Noel Spring ( Castletownbere), 4* Hotel Fatima, Half Board, 10th—15th of May €979pp. For further information contact Maureen Harty 066 7131328, Barter’s Travelnet: 021 4851700 or kcallaghan.
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.
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.
YOGA CLASSES: Yoga classes are held in Fr. Casey’s Club house every Monday evening from7-8.30pm with Mike Houlihan 0872732591.
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.
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, April 1 Closed Bank Holiday. Tuesday, April 2 Pork Chop or Turkey Burger. Wednesday, April 3 Chicken and Mushroom Vol au Vent or Braised Steak. Thursday, April 4 Bacon and Cabbage or Lamb Chop. Friday, April 5 Fish 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..
SPRING CLEAN: nationalspringclean.org – the online resource for An Taisce’s National Spring Clean, Ireland’s nationwide anti-litter campaign which takes place during the whole month of April.
In 2023 , 5,640 groups registered to carry out clean-ups throughout the country – Volunteers who participated in the Spring Clean 2022 collected an estimated 2,600 tonnes of litter.
https://nationalspringclean.org/
Seán Keane comes to the GlórachLooking forward to a welcome ray of sunshine at the Glórach Theatre as the gregarious Galwegian singer Seán Keane makes a return to the Abbeyfeale venue on this coming Friday, April 5th. Coming from the famed Keane family, Seán was destined for the stage from the beginning, and his is a unique voice in his interpretation of a huge variety of songs, straddling various genres. His take on ‘I’m no stranger to the rain’ has unfortunately seemed very appropriate over the last few months, but there’s always a good story and banter in between the songs. The venue has been a home away from home for the singer down the years and every concert he has played here has sold out, so make sure to book before the tickets run out on 0871383940 or www.glorachabbeyfeale.com. Tickets are €30 and the show starts at 8 pm.Glórach salutes Abbeyside PlayersJust a quick note of congratulations to all involved with the Abbeyside Players who recently finished their run of the comedy, May God rest his Soul. Finishing with a number of sell out nights, everything ran smoothly, from the warm welcome at the door, to the diligent direction, the nimble backstage staff and of course the talented cast, and of course not to forget the delicious apple tarts that Paul Murphy gave to us. Looking forward to the next production, but for now enjoy a well earned break
JANICE CARRIG MINSTRY: Holy Spirit Prayer Meeting last Sunday of each month at the Desmond Complex at 3pm. A prayer meeting will also take place in Scartaglen Church on Sunday, April 21 from 2.30p. Everyone welcome. Rosary, Divine Mercy, Scripture and healing. The world is so in need of prayers.
40 HOUR FOR VOCATIONS TO THE PRIESTHOOD: in St. Brigid’s Chapel, Church of the Resurrection Killarney: Thursday 5th May beginning at 5 p. m. Finishing with Holy Mass on Saturday 23rd May. 0876884124.
ACCORD CATHOLIC MARRIAGE CARE SERVICE CLG SEEKING MARRIAGE PREPARATION FACILITATORS
If you have a positive attitude towards marriage in the Catholic Church and have the enthusiasm to be part of the Accord team in supporting couples who are preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage Accord wants to hear from you! Successful applicants will receive professional training and will be part of a team.
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: Wednesday 10am Sean Enright, Purt. Saturday 6.30pm Jim & Nora Harnett, The Hill and deceased family members. Bridie Geary, London . Hannah & John O’Donoghue Knocknasna. Tom Broderick, Killarney Road. Sunday 10am Paddy Woulfe, Kilconlea . 12noon Dr. Michael Wall, Mountmahon. Tadgh Quinn, Purt Yard Month Mind. Mary Ita Barry, Clash Road Month Mind. Patrick Collins, Glenashrone 10th Anniversary and his brother John Collins Ennis. Mairead Lenihan, Clash Road. 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.
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. Keep your security settings or security software up to date on your computer and change your passwords regularly. 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