by Kathleen Mullane
A FOND FAREWELL
The cake for Fr. Tony’s farewell get-together at the hall on Saturday night last
Last Saturday Evening saw Canon Tony Mullins celebrate his final Mass with us here in Athea having been with us for the past 8 years. How time flies.
A great crowd was present in the Church for this Special Mass and I’m sure there were many watching on the Webcam from different parts of the World, all sad to see Fr. Tony departing from us.
Fr. Brendan Duggan, who had served with Fr. Tony here, concelebrated the Mass and Fr. Willie Russell was on the accordion with Margaret Carroll and the lovely choir which indeed as always added that extra dimension to the Liturgy. There were lovely words of praise from both priests during the ceremony and Fr. Tony of course said words of praise in return having worked with Fr. Brendan and Fr. Willie and Fr. Dan Lane also who was away on the night .
A lovely framed picture was presented at the end of Mass to Fr. Tony depicting various ceremonies and occasions he had been involved in by Siobhan our Sacristan. Teresa O Halloran, Sacristan, presented the envelopes with donations from the Athea community which had been collected over the past few weeks. Pat Higgins acted as M.C. on the night and gave Fr. Tony the praise he duly deserved.
It was down to the Hall then where music with Domhnall De Barra and friends greeted everyone. Refreshments were enjoyed by all present with treats for the kids. There were many lovely songs belted out which were thoroughly enjoyed by all with Tony giving us a wonderful rendition of Grace with everyone joining in .
In all a fitting send off to a great man, a man of the people, down to earth so approachable, helpful, compassionate, funny, helpful and so much more. He will be sadly missed, but we were so lucky to have had him .He is wished all the very best as he takes up his new position in Cratloe. He will not be forgotten by the Parish of Athea.
Sincere Sympathy is extended to Etty Ahern and daughter Margaret and extended family relatives and friends on the passing of Ned of Dirreen, Athea. Many paid their last respects at Finucane’s funeral parlour on Monday evening last, Requiem Mass on Tuesday was followed by burial in Holy Cross cemetery. May the light of Heaven be his.
The Annual Coffee Morning in aid of Milford Hospice takes place on Thursday 26th September from 9 am onwards. As always your support for this most worthy cause would be greatly appreciated. As we all know the dreaded cancer has touched so many lives so every little help for Milford is so important to help them do their great work.
Beautiful weather we are having these past few days. The Ploughing Championship is lucky. The Listowel Races are next on the agenda so hopefully they will be as lucky too.
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK AHEAD
Don’t Be Pushed Around by The Fears In Your Mind,
Be Led By The Dreams In Your HEART.