by Kathleen Mullane
GREAT COMMUNITY SPIRIT
Hopefully, at this stage, everyone has survived the snow and the slippery conditions that we all experienced over the past week or so. The absence of electricity coupled with having no water was the worst situation for many, and one wonders how they managed in days gone by without these essentials. However, many families took the time and enjoyed playing a lot of games such as cards, charades, and Monopoly with their kids with the aid of candles and flash lamps and really enjoyed the slower pace of life that the darkness and bad conditions outside brought. Many, however, were suffering from cabin fever from not being able to go out even for a walk. No doubt the walking track up at the GAA pitch saw many getting back to their daily walk since the thaw. Many chutes on houses and sheds fell down with the weight of the snow; however, these are only minor problems in comparison to the devastation they are experiencing in Los Angeles at the moment, so we aren’t badly off at all. And wasn’t it heart-warming to see the amount of community spirit all over the country, including our own little village where farmers came out on their tractors and brought food and supplies to those living alone, or anyone who couldn’t get out to get the necessary, so well done to all those good people. Another thing that the week brought was it showed kids especially how people could survive by burying food in bags, etc., in the freezing snow when their freezers were out of action, and that life can be tough at times.
Sympathy is extended to the family of the late Thomas Griffin of Blaine Athea, who went to his eternal reward over the weekend. He reposed at Finucane’s Funeral Parlour on Sunday evening last, with many coming to pay their respects. Requiem mass on Monday was celebrated by Fr. Tom Mangan, and burial followed to Holy Cross Cemetery. May he rest in eternal peace.
It’s hard to believe I was reading that it’s been 3 years since the murder of teacher Aisling Murphy as she went for her jog along by the river near her home. And more frightening that since then there have been almost 30 women murdered, indeed terrible statistics whatever has gone wrong.
The proposed mass for Canon Kelly which was to have been celebrated this Friday evening 17th has been postponed for a short while as more Community involvement will be taking place on the new date in recognition of his time with us in Athea.
Mass however will go ahead at 7pm on Friday 17th.
Also, on Sunday evening next, the AGM of Athea GAA will be held in the hall at 7:30 pm. All are welcome to come along and give your opinions and share your ideas.
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
When life gives you more than you can stand — JUST KNEEL.