Mass intentions in Blessington

Caroline Doyle (RD) Dunboyne

Saturday: Catherine Fallon (A), Gerry McIntyre (A), PJ Myles (A), Celia Waldron (A), Michael Waldron (A), Gerard Waldron (A)

Sunday: Peggy Luttrell (A), Robert Vallely (A)

We also remember: Jack Keogh (A), Brian Cormican (A), Ted & Sheila Balfe (A), Willie Melia (A)

Monday: Mass offered for the sick.

Tuesday: Get Well Mass, Special Intention

Wednesday: Special Intention, Intentions Mass

Saturday 1^st April: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm – Lacken 7.30pm – Confessions: After 6pm Mass

Sunday 2^nd April: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am – Crosschapel Church: 11.30am

Tuesday 4^th April: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am

HOLY WEEK CEREMONIES: Full programme of services is available in the Leaflet at the back of the Church

Easter Dues Envelopes: Due to the very high cost of postage, this year the Easter Dues envelopes are available in our Churches for those who would like to contribute. We hope that you will pick one up as you visit the Church during the next few weeks. Envelopes can be left in the collection bags/boxes or dropped into the Parish Office.

Dublin Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine led by Archbishop Farrell, will take place on Saturday 29th April. Bus leaving from Blessington Church at 7.30am sharp – €25 per person. PLEASE NOTE: If you intend to travel, we would really like you to register in the parish office as soon as possible. 045 865 327

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. 23^rd March: 13, 8, 12, 22 – €25 Winner: Bernadette D’Arcy. Next Jackpot: €2,700

ATTENTION ALL PARISHIONERS! Blessington Parish is seeking a new caretaker to join our team.  The ideal candidate will have experience in general maintenance, both indoor & outdoor, & be able to prepare rooms for meetings in the Parish Centre & St. Joseph’s Hall as well as preparing the Church for Liturgical events. This is a part-time position with approximately 20 hours of work per week. The schedule will include some evening & weekend work, so flexibility is a must. The caretaker will be responsible for ensuring that our Parish Facilities are clean, safe, & well-maintained. Duties will include everything from basic repairs to cleaning, gardening & organizing spaces for events. If you have a passion for maintaining & improving the physical environment of our Parish & are willing to work hard to make sure everything runs smoothly, we encourage you to apply! Please submit your CV & cover letter by Monday 3^rd April at 5pm. We look forward to hearing from you & finding the right candidate for this important role in our community. Applications to Fr Richard Behan P.P., The Parish Office, Coimin Centre, Church of Our Lady, Blessington, Co. Wicklow or via email: office@blessington.info Thank you for your interest and God bless.

Manor Kilbride Montessori School Nationally Award-Winning Pre-school are now taking enrolments for children under the ECCE & NCS schemes. Info:  Rebecca on 085 252 0814 or email manorkmontessori@gmail.com

Aoibheann’s Pink Tie Fundraiser is back & takes place in Hennessy’s on Saturday 1^st April from 11am to 2.30pm, we are very excited to run this event after an absence of 3 years. APT is an amazing charity supporting children & their families touched by cancer, it is a charity very close to our heart! Alannah age 10 is busy seeking sponsorship, she is having her hair cut at our fundraiser & will donate it to the Rapunzel Foundation, all money raised will be donated to APT. Please come along, pop in for a cuppa & support Alannah & join us for our cake sale, music, song, raffle & much more. If you wish to donate cakes, raffle prizes etc please contact us at: Catherine Behan 087 122 4019 – Judy Keogh 087 616 5116 – Carly Ellis Keogh 086 306 2083

Valleymount & Lacken Private Members Draw – February Winners – Terry & Bill Kearney, Tom Guing, Sean Ascough, Nellie Mulligan, Mags & Mattie Browne. March Winners: Angela & John Richardson, Maura Robinson, Jane Broe, Fr Richard Behan

Blessington Men’s Shed is now open & welcomes new members. Mondays 10.30am -1pm. Music nights on the 1^st Monday of the month & all are very welcome. Next music night Monday 3^rd April, 8pm. A great night of music & song.

Blessington Educate Together are recruiting for a Bus Escort.  The role involves accompanying two children, in a taxi from home to school & back again. The route includes Saggart & City West. The Bus escort is collected from the school & returned to the school. The children arrive at school at 9am & finish at 1.40pm. The rate of pay is €13.40 per hour plus 8% holiday pay. Approximately 15 hours per week. The job might also be of interest to a retired person. Please email the school at  office@betns.ie  or phone 045-865281.

Naas Flower & Garden Club Night in Care of the Aged Centre, Limerick Road, Naas on Thursday 30^th March at 7.45 pm. Diane Gallagher AOIFA – “The Joy’s of Easter” Visitors welcome €8 per night.

Easter Events for Children at Blessington Library – Wednesday, 5th April at 3pm: Story & Art Workshop with professional storyteller & actor Carmel Stephens. For children aged 3 – 6 years (with their guardian) [BOOKING REQUIRED] Thursday, 6th April at 3.30pm: Easter Basket Weaving Workshop. Children aged 8 – 11 years. [BOOKING REQUIRED] Wednesday, 12th April from 10.30am to 12.30pm: Fighting Words Creative Writing Workshop. For children aged 7 – 12 years. [BOOKING REQUIRED] Friday, 14th April from 11.00 am to 4.00 pm: LEGO DINO DAY! For LEGO & DINO fans of all ages. No need to book – just come along

Darkness to Light Blessington May 6^th Meet at the Town Square at 4:15am. There will be a warm up taking place beforehand & Brew21 will open early to accommodate people. Register here https://www.darknessintolight.ie/?fbclid=IwAR2DDK_m1qrF4OjDDEZgI8AhgIIcpKPGVWaf8XM8qRzjiU4HFWUay5_5d8

Flower Arranging Classes in The Band Hall Ballymore Eustace. Tuesday 18^th April or Wednesday19th April. For 6 weeks. Cost: €90 – Christine Hughes – Info: WhatsApp/phone 087 686 4620 Email: christineb.hughes@gmail.com

5-week course at the Coimin Centre Blessington – “Changing Gears” Two courses have been held already & this is a third course for older members of the community. From 10am to 1 pm on May 5^th,12^th, 19^th, 26^th and 2^nd June. It is a chance to make new friends & develop skills for positive ageing & provides a chance to get back out & about after Covid. Call Valerie Hamilton (045) 865 412, Bridie Gleeson (045) 867103 or Michael McLoughlin at (087) 226 3717 to register interest for the course.

Greetings from Spain!! Once again, I will be coming to Blessington in July with a group of students. I am looking for host welcoming families in Blessington & surrounding areas. From 2^nd to 30^th July. As usual, students will attend Blessington Community College. (Mon-Fri 9.30am to 5pm) For more information, please contact Triona Mills :089 478 9839 Or Paloma: 0034 628 114 938 (WhatsApp)

Blessington Bowls Club meet every Thursday at 7.30pm in St Kevin’s Hall Guests are most welcome! Why not come along & bring a friend

Visit the Bookstand at the back of Blessington Church for a variety of Spiritual Books for sale

TROCAIRE PACKS – Are now available in all our Churches. Make a Lenten Promise to fill the Trocaire Box this LENT

Tuesday Rural Bus Service to Naas & Newbridge. Your support is needed to keep this service open. This is ideal as a “shopping bus”. Adult return journey €3.50 & €1 for students. (a free service for many qualifying adults) Departs Blessington Bus Shelter at 10am via Naas to Newbridge (Whitewater Shopping Centre) Departs Whitewater at 1.45pm. Further info: Jane Auld 087 266 0616 or Pat Conlan 086 075 2072

Lacken Naíonra Open for enrolments. ECCE & part-time places available. For information or to book a viewing, please contact 045 865 086.

Lacken National School are now accepting enrolment applications for the 2023/2024 school year. Also accepting enrolment applications for the 2023/2024 Early Intervention Class. Please email school@lackenns.com or contact the school office on 045 865 086.

Valleymount Parent & Baby/Toddler Playgroup meets every Thursday during school term from 9.30am to 12 in Valleymount Hall. New parents most welcome. Pop in for a cuppa & a chat.

The Clutter Fairy. Decluttering, Organisation, Interior Design, Deep Cleaning, Moving House. No obligation, free first consultation. Call: 083 030 5608.  theclutterfairyireland@gmail.com

GARDENING For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Strimming, etc Phone Mark: 085 133 7714 – Greenleaf Garden Care

Flower Arranging Classes in The Band Hall Ballymore Eustace. Tuesday 18th April or Wednesday19th April. For 6 weeks. Cost: €90 – Christine Hughes. Info: WhatsApp/phone 087 686 4620 Email: christineb.hughes@gmail.com

Home Maintenance For all those small Repair & Maintenance works around the home. No job too small. References available. Free Quotations. Contact David (045) 401927 or 086 894 9590

Wicklow & Kildare Mental Health Services Counselling & Psychotherapy Aran Centre, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. For Bookings please contact, By phone: 089 274 4920 or e-mail: info@wicklowandkildarementalhealth.ie

Active Appliance Repairs: Having a problem with your appliances. Don’t delay give Karl a call 0863637792

Community Healing Circle Self-care for Blessington Mum’s… Kids at Easter camp?? Come join us for a peaceful & calm morning to destress & unwind. Guided Meditation, Reiki Healing, Oracle Card Reading, A Free Crystal (1^st Session). 3rd – 7th April from10.30am -12 noon at Reiki Angel Healing, Blessington – €20 per Session WhatsApp: 087 223 4005 to Book. Instagram: @reiki-angel-healing-wilcklow

Jones Power Tools Ltd Ride-on Lawnmowers/Push Mowers/Robotic Mowers. From your new purchase to a service on your own Machines. We’re here to help. Jones Power Tools Ltd – Contact 059 81033 or 087 6638788. Find us on Facebook & Instagram

Talbot Chimneys – Free Chimney Check With Clean. Weather still cold; Chimney Inspection & Cleaning Local Chimney Sweep – Fully Insured & certified Chimney Specialists. 100% Spotless Work. Book a Chimney Sweep, Stove Sweep or Chimney Inspection. Call Us Today! 045 850 957

Very nice self-contained private office to let at Aran Centre, Blessington opposite Aldi.  €135 per week all-in.  Contact Sean on 087 8175227.

Gas Home for all your gas boiler servicing and repairs. New boiler fitted from €1,899. Over 20 years in Blessington. Phone Stephen 087 906 0894

Castle Canine Cuts 1 to 1 Dog Grooming Service. Available to groom your small to large breeds. Taking bookings Tuesdays – Saturdays Call/Text Gillian 087 764 1911 or find us on Facebook.

Mass intentions in Blessington

Saturday: John & Margaret Morrissy (A)

Elizabeth McGinnity (Birthday Rem)

Sunday: Evelyn Davis (A), Alan Clarke (Birthday Rem), Maria Wilmot (RD), Bridie Toomey (A)

We also remember: Simon Foster (Rem)

Monday: Mass offered for the sick.

Tuesday: Sp Living Int, Sp Living Int

Wednesday: Jim Murphy (29th A), Joe Mullee (A)

7.30pm Mass: Patrick McEvoy (RD), Margaret Tobin (RD)

Thursday: Get well Int, Get Well Int

Friday: Carmel Birmingham (Birthday Rem), Margret O’Neill (RD)

Saturday 18^th March: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm – Lacken 7.30pm – Celebrating St Patrick with Irish Music and Irish Dancers doing An Damhsa Mór at the end of Mass. Confessions: After 6pm Mass

Sunday 19^th March: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am – Crosschapel Church: 11.30am

Tuesday 21st March: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am

Wednesday 22nd March “A TIME OF HOPE” LENTEN TALKS at 7.30pm Mass. Teresa Wood, Team Hope Ireland, CHRISTMAS SHOE BOX APPEAL

The Family of the late Michael (Mick) Ryan would like to thank everyone for their sympathy & kindness on his passing. A special thanks to Fr Richard, Deacon Gerry Malone, Tony & Regina Clarke and Dr Power & staff at Tallaght Hospital. Many thanks also to all the carers who looked after him. A Mass will be offered for you all, on behalf of his wife Maria & family.

Fr Richard & the Valleymount Community Shed would like to thank Hudson Brothers for their very generous gift of supplying & delivering gravel for the Church grounds & the raised vegetable beds project at the Stables Valleymount. We would also like to thank Tony Condon, Niall & Mark for all their skill & help in spreading the gravel. Their good humour & jokes made the day. All are welcome to come & visit & get involved in the projects at the community shed. Chairman: Johnny Brophy

Dublin Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine led by Archbishop Farrell, will take place on Saturday 29th April. If anyone from Blessington, Crosschapel, Manor Kilbride, Valleymount or Eadestown is interested in travelling, there will be a bus leaving from Blessington Church at 7.30am sharp (Leaving Knock at 4.30pm) €25 per person. If you have any queries or to register contact Blessington Parish Office, 045 865 327 or email: office@blessington.info

Many thanks to all who attended the Service of Hope on Monday. €110 was donated on the night & will go to the Trocaire Earthquake Relief Fund.

Donations from the Woman’s World Day of Prayer raised €143 will go to help women who face suffering & injustice in Taiwan

ST PATRICK’S DAY SOCIAL EVENT Manor Kilbride Hall. Friday 17^th March 12noon – 2.00pm. Tea, Coffee & Cake – Vintage Style with Old-Time Music & Song. Presented by Kilbride & Lakeside Music along with Glen Heste Pure Mile. All welcome

St Mary’s Junior School Fundraising Car Wash Saturday 25th March in School Yard behind Church of Our Lady €15 hand wash includes Hot Beverage & a Snack while you wait AND free entry into draw for Karcher Car Washer (Sponsored by Karcher Ireland)

Aoibheann’s Pink Tie Fundraiser is back & takes place in Hennessy’s on Saturday 1^st April from 11am to 2.30pm, we are very excited to run this event after an absence of 3 years. APT is an amazing charity supporting children & their families touched by cancer, it is a charity very close to our heart! Alannah age 10 is busy seeking sponsorship, she is having her hair cut at our fundraiser & will donate it to the Rapunzel Foundation, all money raised will be donated to APT. Please come along, pop in for a cuppa & support Alannah & join us for our cake sale, music, song, raffle & much more. If you wish to donate cakes, raffle prizes etc please contact us at: Catherine Behan 087 122 4019 – Judy Keogh 087 616 5116 – Carly Ellis Keogh 086 306 2083

BLESSINGTON U3A are pleased to welcome Neal Doherty to present a talk on the Statues & Sculptures of Dublin after his book of the same name. Talk Title: ” Statues & Sculptures of Dublin.” on Tuesday 21^st March at 10:30am in the Avon Hotel. All welcome, Non-Members €5 per person.

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn 9^th March: 4, 5, 11, 18 €25 Winner: Patricia Kinsella Next Jackpot: €2,600

Visit the Bookstand at the back of Blessington Church for a variety of Spiritual Books for sale

TROCAIRE PACKS – Are now available in all our Churches. Make a Lenten Promise to fill the Trocaire Box this LENT

St Marys Junior N.S. Blessington Junior Infant places available for 2023/2024. For an application form or to arrange a visit please contact the school: 045 865 501 or email secretary@stmarysjuniorschool.ie NB: School closed 16^th & 17^th February for midterm break.

Tuesday Rural Bus Service to Naas & Newbridge. Your support is needed to keep this service open. This is ideal as a “shopping bus”. Adult return journey €3.50 & €1 for students. (a free service for many qualifying adults) Departs Blessington Bus Shelter at 10am via Naas to Newbridge (Whitewater Shopping Centre) Departs Whitewater at 1.45pm. Further info: Jane Auld 087 266 0616 or Pat Conlan 086 075 2072

Lacken Naíonra Open for enrolments. ECCE & part-time places available. For information or to book a viewing, please contact 045 865 086.

Lacken National School are now accepting enrolment applications for the 2023/2024 school year. Also accepting enrolment applications for the 2023/2024 Early Intervention Class. Please email school@lackenns.com or contact the school office on 045 865 086.

Valleymount Parent & Baby/Toddler Playgroup meets every Thursday during school term from 9.30am to 12 in Valleymount Hall. New parents most welcome. Pop in for a cuppa & a chat.

Blessington St Patrick’s Day PARADE – 12 noon

Escorted Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine, Monday 27^th March.  €599 pp sharing. Price includes return train, 4 nights in Knock House Hotel with full board.  All entertainment & excursions included. Day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre & National Museum.  Single supplement €100 Contact Patricia on 087 1890 236 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com

REMINDER TO PARISHIONERS: OUR ULSTER BANK ACCOUNTS ARE NOW CLOSED. If you have been donating to the Parish by Standing Order, we would be very appreciative if you could transfer it to our new AIB account. Please use your Surname & your 4-digit parish code when you set up the new Standing Order. Call the Parish Office for details: 045 865 327 or to set up a new Standing Order. The Standing Order Donations are a vital help in the running of our Parish, & we depend so much on these donations. Many thanks if you have already made this change.

Active Appliance Repairs: Having a problem with your appliances. Don’t delay give Karl a call 0863637792

Job Opportunities at VENTAC Blessington Ventac design, manufacture & supply acoustic solutions for commercial & industrial vehicle OEMs. We are recruiting for the following production roles based in our head offices at Fitzwilliam House, Blessington, Co Wicklow W91 V972:

General Operatives – Machine Operators – Machinists The successful candidates must be enthusiastic & be able to work on their own initiative with acute attention to detail. For more information & to apply, email your CV & cover letter to hr@ventac.com

Part-Time Coffee Shop Assistant/Administrator at June Blake’s Garden. We are currently seeking a Part-Time Coffee Shop Assistant/Administrator to join our team at June Blake’s Garden. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a passion for customer service & gardening. The role will involve preparing and serving coffee, tea & cakes to customers. Completing general administrative duties such as cash handling, record-keeping, & stock management. Role is part-time 3 days per week & includes weekends. Please contact fiona@juneblake.ie

Jones Power Tools Ltd Ride-on Lawnmowers/Push Mowers/Robotic Mowers. From your new purchase to a service on your own Machines. We’re here to help. Jones Power Tools Ltd – Contact 059 81033 or 087 6638788. Find us on Facebook & Instagram

Talbot Chimneys – Free Chimney Check With Clean. Weather still cold; Chimney Inspection & Cleaning Local Chimney Sweep – Fully Insured & certified Chimney Specialists. 100% Spotless Work. Book a Chimney Sweep, Stove Sweep or Chimney Inspection. Call Us Today! 045 850 957

Mother’s Day @ San Patrizio, Blessington’s Authentic Italian restaurant is now taking bookings for Mother’s Day. Special table d’hote menu available 045 865 214. Opening hours Thursday 5pm, Friday 5pm, Saturday 4pm, Mother’s Day 1pm

Very nice self-contained private office to let at Aran Centre, Blessington opposite Aldi.  €135 per week all-in.  Contact Sean on 087 8175227.

Gas Home for all your gas boiler servicing and repairs. New boiler fitted from €1,899. Over 20 years in Blessington. Phone Stephen 087 906 0894

Castle Canine Cuts 1 to 1 Dog Grooming Service. Available to groom your small to large breeds. Taking bookings Tuesdays – Saturdays Call/Text Gillian 087 764 1911 or find us on Facebook.

BRYKO Shop / Yard Assistant Required. Full time Position, Manual Lifting Ability Essential. Please Drop in your CV to Emilia or email to bryko.products@gmail.com

Mass intentions in Blessington

Agnes Cummins (RD) Ballinastockan

Saturday: Billy Horan (1st A), John Behan (1st A), Patrick, Mary & Judy Behan (A), Shay Mills (A), Thomas, Michael & May Myles (A),

Sunday: Seamus Byrne (5th A), Kay & Christy Reid (A), James Lombard (Kilteel) (2nd A), Kim Luttrell (A), Marie Dawson (10th A)

We also remember: Mary Breen (A), Bill Twyford (A), Nora Fleming (A), Phil Conlon, Kathleen & Jack Daniels, Joe, Ray & Loraine Daniels & deceased members of the Daniels Family, Maurice (Moggie) Murray, Tony Evans & deceased members of the Evans Family, Patrick Stynes, Thomas Kelly

Monday: Mass offered for the sick.

Tuesday: Birthday Mass, Birthday Mass

Wednesday: Ann Healy (RD), Hugh O’Neill (RD) 7.30pm Mass: Joan Kavanagh (A), Gordon Watkins (RD)

Thursday: Pat Farrell (RD), Kathleen McCarthy (RD)

Friday: Peter Griffin (RD), Cathy Doyle (RD)

Saturday 4^th March: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken 7.30pm. Confessions: After 6pm Mass in Blessington

Sunday 5^th March: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am – (1^st Communion Preparation Mass) Crosschapel Church: 11.30am

Tuesday 7^th March: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am in Blessington

Wednesday 8th March: “A TIME OF HOPE” LENTEN TALKS at 7.30pm Mass every Wednesday during Lent in Church of Our Lady Blessington Week 3 Wed 8^th March Carmel Dillon, Principal St Mary’s JS FAITH IN SCHOOL

The Family of the late Mick & Billy Horan, wish to thank everyone for the overwhelming support & kindness shown to them over the last couple of months. They would like to thank everyone who attended both Mick & Billy’s wake & funerals, who left heartfelt messages of condolences online & sent Mass cards. We would also like to thank Tony & Regina Clarke for their kindness, Lorraine Ryan, Fr. Richard, Enda’s Flowers & Sinead & Ronan Hennessy. We would also like to express our gratitude to our extended family, friends & neighbours for their continued love & support. As it would be difficult to thank everyone individually, please accept this as acknowledgment as an expression of our deepest gratitude. For those who would like to attend, Billy’s 1st Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 4^th March at 6pm in Blessington …………. The Horan Family.

DIOCESAN COLLECTION FOR TURKEY & SYRIA – Thank you to all who gave so generously in the Church Collection last weekend. Donations from Blessington, Crosschapel & Manor Kilbride came to €4,810, from Valleymount & Lacken €1,150 and Eadestown & Kilteel €1,835

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY: Children’s Church is returning! 6pm Mass on Saturday 11^th March in Blessington

Valleymount Community Shed are having A Social Night on Saturday 4^th March at 7.30pm in The Stables Valleymount. This is an ‘Open Mic Event’ & is free to all who attend. We hope you will be able to come along & join in the music & the craic. Light refreshments will be provided.

St Patrick’s Day Parade Committee hosting a Senior Dance Evening in the Avon Blessington on Friday 10^th March from 8pm til late…… Admission €10, at door. Full bar. Safe place for all our seniors to have a dance, a few laughs & a meet up.

Blessington Bowls Club meet every Thursday at 7.30pm in St Kevin’s Hall, Main St Blessington. Guests are most welcome! why not come along and bring a friend.”

80/90s Disco on Saturday 11^th March in the Avon from 9pm til late. Over 18s only. Full bar & DJ. Admission €10, at door.

Blessington Parish Office open from 9am to 1pm, Monday to Friday 045 865 327 – office@blessington.info

Anam Cara supporting bereaved parents – meeting for bereaved parents on Mon 13^th March at 7:15pm in the Maldron Hotel, Tallaght. Free event, open to all

Study looking for adults (70 + years) to take part in our Protein & Online Exercise classes for 12 weeks by PhD student Catherine Fallon from University College Dublin. All appointments & classes will be done from your own home. For more information, please contact 086 724 0910 or email Catherine.fallon@ucdconnect.ie

ENGINEERS WEEK. To mark Engineers Week, we’re running FOUR Robotic workshops in Blessington Library on Saturday, 4th March 10am; 10.30am; 11am; & 11.30am. It will be a fun interactive workshop demonstrating how simple robots can be created and manipulated. Each session lasts for 30 minutes. Suitable for ages 9 to 11. Spaces are limited. Please book in advance: Blessingtonlib@wicklowcoco.ie or 045 891 740.

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 23rd February. 7, 11, 15, 26. €25 Winner: Terrilee Byrne. Next Jackpot is €2,550

Visit the Bookstand at the back of Blessington Church for a variety of Spiritual Books for sale

TROCAIRE PACKS – Are now available in all our Churches. Make a Lenten Promise to fill the Trocaire Box this LENT

St Marys Junior N.S. Blessington Junior Infant places available for 2023/2024. For an application form or to arrange a visit please contact the school: 045 865 501 or email secretary@stmarysjuniorschool.ie NB: School closed 16^th & 17^th February for midterm break.

Clothes Collection supporting Friends of Calcutta ( CHY No. 13218) on Tuesday March 7th. All items of wearable clothing, footwear, curtains etc most welcome and can be left close to the FOC Sign in Church Car Park at any stage that day up to 1pm. All enquiries to Michael Hopkins 087-9073074 who will be delighted to arrange a home collection if requested

Lacken Naíonra Open for enrolments. ECCE & part-time places available. For information or to book a viewing, please contact 045 865 086.

Lacken National School are now accepting enrolment applications for the 2023/2024 school year. Also accepting enrolment applications for the 2023/2024 Early Intervention Class. Please email school@lackenns.com or contact the school office on 045 865 086.

Valleymount Parent & Baby/Toddler Playgroup meets every Thursday during school term from 9.30am to 12 in Valleymount Hall. New parents most welcome. Pop in for a cuppa & a chat.

ALONE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED “I spent so many years sitting right in front of this window hoping for a visitor or the phone to ring…I used to order things I didn’t need just to have a short chat with the delivery men. That’s how lonely I was.” Are you interested in volunteering to visit or call an older person & help us combat loneliness in your area? We are urgently in need of volunteers. Visit www.alone.ie to sign up today

Escorted Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine, Monday 27^th March.  €599 pp sharing. Price includes return train, 4 nights in Knock House Hotel with full board.  All entertainment & excursions included. Day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre & National Museum.  Single supplement €100 Contact Patricia on 087 1890 236 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com

REMINDER TO PARISHIONERS: OUR ULSTER BANK ACCOUNTS ARE NOW CLOSED. If you have been donating to the Parish by Standing Order, we would be very appreciative if you could transfer it to our new AIB account. Please use your Surname & your 4-digit parish code when you set up the new Standing Order. Call the Parish Office for details: 045 865 327 or to set up a new Standing Order. The Standing Order Donations are a vital help in the running of our Parish, & we depend so much on these donations. Many thanks if you have already made this change.

CASA Church Collection  at all Masses this weekend: 18th & 19th February – CASA is a registered charity established in 1981. It is a volunteer led organisation whose goal is to develop friendships and social opportunities for adults and children with disabilities through a variety of social events and activities.  CASA has over 20 local groups nationwide with each group holding regular social events and activities with one-to-one person-centred care which is what makes CASA unique.  The aim of these groups is to provide our members with the opportunity to socialise, develop friendships and empower themselves in a caring and relaxed setting. Please give generously.  Thank you

Mass intentions in Blessington

Robert Sargent (RD) Rathmore, Lexie Casey (RD) Roscommon, Jack Bohan (RD) Stillorgan, Hugh O’Neill (RD) Rathfarnham

Saturday: Maree McEvoy (A), Vera Byrne (A), Pat Byrne (Birthday Rem), Jane Miley (Birthday Rem, Thomas Miley (Birthday Rem), Diane Little (A), John & Mary Cruise (A), Bridie & John Richardson (A)

Sunday: Andy Hanlon (A), Lisa Walsh (A), Trevor Kinsella (A), Kathleen Kinsella (A), Josephine O’Toole (A), Christopher, Mary & Anthony Lambert (A)

We also remember: John Kelly (Rem), Agnes Shirran (A)

Monday: Mass offered for the sick at home & those in hospital.

Tuesday: Sp. Intentions Mass, Intentions Mass, Sp. Intentions Mass

Wednesday: Mick Melia (RD), James Cummins (RD) 7.30pm Mass Get Well Intentions,  Get Well Intentions

Thursday: Toddy Hennessy (A), Kathleen Hennessy (A)

Friday: Tom Roberts (RD), James Oliver Coffey (RD)

Saturday 18^th February: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken 7.30pm Confessions: After 6pm Mass in Blessington

Sunday 19^th February: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am, Crosschapel Church: 11.30am

Tuesday 21^st February: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am in Blessington

ASH WEDNESDAY – 22^nd February – Blessed Ashes will be distributed at Masses in Blessington & Manor Kilbride. Ashes will be available for home use if you want to drop into the Church during the day. There will be a Service of Blessing & distribution of Ashes in Valleymount Church at 10am.

Parents & Children welcome to join us every Wednesday for “Pray & Play” from 2.45pm in the ‘Crying Room’ Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Prayer time, Play time & Music Refreshments afterwards.

“A TIME OF HOPE” LENTEN TALKS at 7.30pm Mass every Wednesday during Lent in Church of Our Lady Blessington Week 1 Wed 22^nd February Deacon Gerry Malone talks on FAITH & CALLING

Acknowledgement – The family of the late Mary (Moira) Reid would like to thank all who sympathised, attended the wake, Funeral Mass & burial, sent mass cards, online condolences, provided food & supported the family in any way. Thanks to Fr. Behan, Deacon Gerry, Tony & Regina Clarke for their kindness, help & support. To Lorraine, Richie & Harry for the beautiful singing & music in the Church.  Thanks also to Valleymount GAA for the guard of honour & for their support. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. Mary’s 1st Anniversary Mass will take place in Valleymount Church on Sunday 26^th February at 10am.

Visit the Bookstand at the back of Blessington Church for a variety of Spiritual Books for sale

TROCAIRE PACKS – Are now available in all our Churches. Make a Lenten Promise to fill the Trocaire Box this LENT

St Marys Junior N.S. Blessington Junior Infant places available for 2023/2024. For an application form or to arrange a visit please contact the school: 045 865 501 or email secretary@stmarysjuniorschool.ie NB: School closed 16^th & 17^th February for midterm break.

Valleymount Community Shed are having A Social Night on Saturday 4^th March at 7.30pm in The Stables Valleymount. This is an ‘Open Mic Event’ & is free to all who attend. We hope you will be able to come along & join in the music & the craic. Light refreshments will be provided.

Naas Flower & Garden Club, Care of the Aged Centre, Limerick Road, Naas on Thursday 23^rd February at 7.45pm. Garden Talk by Brid Kelleher AOIFA & NAFAS. Visitors welcome €8

Blessington History Society is holding its AGM on Tuesday 21^st February 8pm in the Coimin Centre. All are welcome to attend. If you wish to become a member of the society for the year 2023 the membership fees are as follows: €25 for a single membership, €35 for a couple. On the night we will a power point presentation of old photographs & memories of Blessington in former years. This will be followed by light refreshments.

West Wicklow Cancer Support – You are welcome to our February Monthly Drop-In Evening, Thursday 23rd February 7.30pm to 9.00pm in the Coimin Centre Blessington. Come to our gardening evening hosted by a local horticulturist showing us how to bring colour into our spring & summer garden.  Gardening is good for the brain & good for the soul! No need to book, spaces available, no charge. Contact us on 087 434 6004  / westwicklow15@gmail.com  with any enquiries.

WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER Ecumenical Service on Friday 3^rd March at 10am in Church of Our Lady Blessington. ALL WELCOME

McGreal’s FREE CPR Training in the Primary Care Centre Pharmacy on Thursday 23^rd February from 6pm to 7pm. All Welcome

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 16th February. 6, 11, 17, 24. €25 Winner: Margaret O’Dwyer. Next Jackpot is €2,500

Interested in drawing & painting but haven’t tried it yet? This course will give you the practical skills to draw & paint through the guided work in class & is a great introduction to Art. Please join us at for an information session on Wednesday 22^nd  February from 7:30-8:30pm at the Blessington Further Education Centre. For further information, please contact abeblessington@kwetb.ie or call 045 851494.

Lacken Naíonra Open for enrolments. ECCE & part-time places available. For information or to book a viewing, please contact 045 865 086.

Lacken National School are now accepting enrolment applications for the 2023/2024 school year. Also accepting enrolment applications for the 2023/2024 Early Intervention Class. Please email school@lackenns.com or contact the school office on 045 865 086.

Blessington Car Boot Sale Returns to St. Kevin’s Hall on Sunday 26^th February: 7am to 4pm.  Tea/Coffee. Indoor & Outdoor Spaces. Free Parking. Toilets. Tables €10. Info: Pat Conlan: 086 075 2072

Valleymount Parent & Baby/Toddler Playgroup meets every Friday during school term from 9.30am to 12 in Valleymount Hall. New parents most welcome. Pop in for a cuppa and a chat.

Celebrating over 60 years involvement in Theatre. “From the Shoulders Down” Written & Performed by Richard Lynch. Embracing the humour & pathos in the life, times & labours of Patrick Joseph Mulpeter, P.J. for short B.L.A. (Builders Labourer Anonymous). Proud of his past & somewhat embittered by it, bewildered by the present & uneasy about the future. “Lynch not only wins his audience, he owns them” – Leinster Leader. Saturday 25th February at 8 p.m. Valleymount Community Centre. Tickets €10 at the door.

ALONE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED “I spent so many years sitting right in front of this window hoping for a visitor or the phone to ring…I used to order things I didn’t need just to have a short chat with the delivery men. That’s how lonely I was.” Are you interested in volunteering to visit or call an older person & help us combat loneliness in your area? We are urgently in need of volunteers. Visit www.alone.ie to sign up today

Escorted Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine, Monday 27^th March.  €599 pp sharing. Price includes return train, 4 nights in Knock House Hotel with full board.  All entertainment & excursions included. Day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre & National Museum.  Single supplement €100 Contact Patricia on 087 1890 236 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com

REMINDER TO PARISHIONERS: OUR ULSTER BANK ACCOUNTS ARE NOW CLOSED. If you have been donating to the Parish by Standing Order, we would be very appreciative if you could transfer it to our new AIB account. Please use your Surname & your 4-digit parish code when you set up the new Standing Order. Call the Parish Office for details: 045 865 327 or to set up a new Standing Order. The Standing Order Donations are a vital help in the running of our Parish, & we depend so much on these donations. Many thanks if you have already made this change.

A Time of Hope – Lenten Talks – 7.30pm Mass every Wednesday during Lent – Church of Our Lady Blessington

• 22^nd February – Deacon Gerry Malone – FAITH & CALLING
• 1st March – Ger Gallagher, AMRI Communications – SPORT & FAITH
• 8^th March – Carmel Dillon, Principal St Mary’s JS – FAITH IN SCHOOL
• 15^th March – Sr Enda Mullan, HOPE IN CREATION
• 22^nd March – Teresa Wood, Team Hope Ireland, CHRISTMAS SHOE BOX APPEAL
• 29^th March – Christina Malone, Parish Pastoral Worker, BUILDING HOPE IN CHURCH

Single Room To Rent in Blessington. Phone 087 750 8644

YOGA Classes New Term starts 23^rd February. Blessington St. Mary’s Junior School Thursdays 7:30pm Kilteel Hall Tuesdays 9:30am & Wednesday 8:15pm. Please book in advance. Nancy Hickey – 087 639 1676. Qualified Yoga Instructor

BRYKO Shop / Yard Assistant Required. Full time Position, Manual Lifting Ability Essential. Please Drop in your CV to Emilia or email to bryko.products@gmail.com

Window & Door Repairs PVC Repairs – Hinges & Handles Replaced, Misted, Foggy or Cracked Windows? Change your Existing Glass to ‘A Rated Glass’. EVERY PANE’S MY PLEASURE. Call Gerry on 085 786 4273

GARDENING For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Strimming, etc Phone Mark: 085 133 7714. Greenleaf Garden Care

Mass intentions in Blessington

Frank Cantwell (RD) Tinode

Saturday: Edward Boylan (A), Michael McDonnell (A), Phyllis Farrell (A), Mary McIntyre (A)

Sunday: Conor Curran (A), Bridget O’Connell (A), Joe Treacy (A), Bridie & Owen Naughton (A)

We also remember:

Monday: Mass offered for the sick at home & those in hospital.

Tuesday: Francis Hunt (4^th A) (Liverpool), Intentions Mass, Intentions Mass

Wednesday: John O’Hara (A), Carmel Hynes (RD), Eileen O’Neill (RD)

Thursday: Mary McIntyre (A), Sean Kelly (RD)

Friday: Kenneth Parkes (RD), Maureen Keane (RD)

Saturday 4^th February: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken: 7.30pm – 1^st Communion Preparation Mass. Confessions: After 6pm Mass in Blessington

Sunday 5^th February: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am, Crosschapel Church: 11.30am

Tuesday 7^th February: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Wednesday 8^th February: Parents & Children welcome to join us “Pray & Play” from 2.45pm in the ‘Crying Room’ Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Prayer time, Play time & Music Refreshments afterwards.

Annual Accord Collection, the Diocesan Agency for Marriage & the Family, will be made at all Masses next weekend 11^th & 12^th February. Accord Dublin throughout the diocese offers Marriage Preparation courses – online, small groups; Counselling for couples & individuals experiencing difficulties in their relationships, currently online or by phone; A Relationship & Sexuality Programme for schools. Accord Dublin needs your support this year more than ever. Please give generously.

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 26^th January. 12, 13, 15, 19. €25 Winner: Robin Fallon. Next Jackpot is €2,400

Blessington AFC U15 Team CAKE SALE on Sunday 12^th February in the Coimin Centre in aid of our trip to represent Blessington AFC in The Blackpool Cup. Make sure & pop into us between 10am &12 noon to pick up some delicious cakes & treats.

Kilteel, St Brigid’s Art Festival present “From the Shoulders Down” Written & Performed by Richard Lynch. Embracing the humour & pathos in the life, times & labours of Patrick Joseph Mulpeter, P.J. for short B.L.A. (Builders Labourer Anonymous). Proud of his past & somewhat embittered by it, bewildered by the present & uneasy about the future. “Lynch not only wins his audience, he owns them” – Leinster Leader. Monday 6^th February at 8pm in Kilteel Community Centre. Tickets €10 Booking 087 791 4205

Interested in drawing & painting but haven’t tried it yet? This course will give you the practical skills to draw & paint through the guided work in class & is a great introduction to Art. Please join us at for an information session on Wednesday 22^nd  February from 7:30-8:30pm at the Blessington Further Education Centre. For further information, please contact abeblessington@kwetb.ie or call 045 851494.

Always wanted to sing? – All Welcome – No Auditions. Blessington Millennium Choir are looking to recruit new members who love to sing. With mixed ability and experience, we aim to positively impact our community and as such regularly raise funds for organisations and participate in events. So, if you sing in the shower, you are the King or Queen of Karaoke or a keen amateur, come & join us. We meet every Tuesday evening 7.30pm to 9.30pm at the Kare Centre, Blessington For more details please phone: (087) 4352385 or (087) 2431499  www.choirbmc.com

Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of Blessington & District Forum (BDF) will be held on the 13th February 2023 from 730pm to 9pm in the GP Room St. Marys Junior School Blessington. Members of the local community are welcome to attend on the night. For information and to register your attendance please email blessingtondistrictforum@gmail.com before February 10th

Lacken Naíonra Open for enrolments. ECCE & part-time places available. For information or to book a viewing, please contact 045 865 086.

Lacken National School are now accepting enrolment applications for the 2023/2024 school year. Also accepting enrolment applications for the 2023/2024 Early Intervention Class.  Please email school@lackenns.com or contact the school office on 045 865 086.

Volunteer for Make-A-Wish® Ireland Wish Week 2023 Make-A-Wish® Ireland who grants wishes to seriously ill children is appealing to you to sign up to become a Wish Week volunteer. With a target to raise €100,000, Dunnes Stores has given permission to Make-A-Wish Ireland to carry out bucket collections in their stores on ‘Wish Day’ on Friday 28^th April. For more information or to sign up contact Mary Murphy at mary@makeawish.ie  or 01 2052007 or visit https://www.makeawish.ie/get-involved/upcoming-events/wish-week-2023

Anam Cara supporting bereaved parents, is holding its monthly Parent Evening for on Monday 13th Feb at 7:15pm in the Maldron Hotel, Tallaght. This event is free & open to all bereaved parents whether their death was recent or not.

Double Room to Rent 5 Minutes’ drive from Blessington. Please phone 087 949 8910 or 087 9923 809

Let’s Sing! Baby & Toddler Music Class Wednesdays at 9.45am and 10.45am. Saturdays at 11.30am. Fight Fit Dojo, Blessington. Booking www.letssing.ie

Room Sought for quiet single professional male in Blessington Village, non-drinker. Please call: 087 239 0308

Window & Door Repairs PVC Repairs – Hinges & Handles Replaced, Misted, Foggy or Cracked Windows? Change your Existing Glass to ‘A Rated Glass’. EVERY PANE’S MY PLEASURE. Call Gerry on 085 786 4273

Morning Yoga Classes starting Wednesday 22^nd February 10am to 11am. Lyengar Yoga Beginners’ Class, also suitable for the more experienced. This Is Yoga Studio, Unit 5, Haylands Blessington. For bookings contact: Nina 086 086 4468  info@ninaswellnessandyoga.com

GARDENING For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Strimming, etc Phone Mark: 085 133 7714. Greenleaf Garden Care

CHICKEN SITTER AVAILABLE! Planning a holiday? Experienced, reliable chicken keeper & poultry enthusiast available to look after your chickens/poultry! Own transport. Reasonable rates. 086 082 4216