Issue 1447 April 2nd 2023

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

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

Tuesday 4th 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. 23rd 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 3rd 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 1st 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 1st Monday of the month & all are very welcome. Next music night Monday 3rd 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 30th 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 6th 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 18th 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 5th,12th, 19th, 26th and 2nd 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 2nd to 30th 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.

St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579

  • NEWSLETTER ADS

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 (1st 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.

Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. Open for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs. Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30-Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045 891 056 for an appointment.

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Painter & Decorator – Interior & Exterior Phone: Damien 085 826 0431

Paying too much for SKY or Virgin Media? We Install or Repair Free to Air and Saorview! No more Bills! Call Billy 086 868 0053

Local Builder Available – All services under one roof, Windows & Doors, Plumbing, Tiling, Roofing, Plastering, Electrical, Carpentry, Insulation. All levels of construction services available. Fully registered. Call Paul 086 309 1829

Interior Designs by Elizabeth Creative, Unique, Personal. Please phone: 086 088 1806. Email: elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com

Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook

German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997  www.germanautoworks.ie

Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service  www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com

Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie

HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487  www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com

Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327

  • PARISH INFORMATION

Church of Our Lady, Blessington – Mass Times: Saturday 6.00pm.  Sunday 10.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9.30am – Fr. Richard Behan PP. Tel: 045 865327

Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel – Mass Times: Sundays 11.30am

St. Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride – Mass Times: Sundays 11.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9am – Fr. Paraic McDermott C.S. Sp., Tel: 01 4582154

St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount – Mass Times: Sunday 10am

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Lacken – Mass Time: Saturdays 7.30pm

Parish Office: 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday Tel: 045 865 327

Issue 1446 March 26th 2023

Please note the Parish Privacy Notice is currently under review.  A new version will be published very soon.  If you have any questions or require further information, please email Noelle Dowling at dataprotection@dublindiocese.ie.

Mass intentions in Blessington

Anezka Podrovzková Czech Republic (Months Mind)

Saturday: Margaret Finnegan (Months Mind), Maura O’Hara (A), Michael (Mick) Ryan (1st A), George Allen (A)

Sunday: Johnny McDonald (A), Jimmy Jones (5th A), Pete Nolan (A)

We also remember: Larry, Mary, Mathew Lennon (A), The Nolan Family, Blessington (Rem), Michael & Anne Mary Norton (Rem), Tom Nolan & Family, Baltinglass, Nora Ryan (A)

Monday:  Mass offered for the sick.

Tuesday: Birthday Int, Get Well Int

Wednesday: Ann Connolly (A), Nora English (A), Gerry McIntyre (A)

7.30pm Mass: Intentions Mass, Intentions Mass

Thursday: Joseph Moran (RD), Agnes Gibson (RD)

Friday: Intentions, Thinking of you Mass

Saturday 25th March: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm – Children’s Church – all children (aged up to 10) & their families are invited 6pm Mass. Confessions: After 6pm Mass. Lacken 7.30pm

Sunday 26th March: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am – Crosschapel Church: 11.30am

Tuesday 28th March: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am

Wednesday 29th March: “A TIME OF HOPE”  LENTEN TALKS at 7.30pm Mass – Christina Malone, Parish Pastoral Worker, BUILDING HOPE IN CHURCH

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. For info & booking Contact Blessington Parish Office, 045 865 327

Easter Mass Cards now available in the Parish Office

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 3rd 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.

West Wicklow Cancer Support Welcome to our March Monthly Drop-In Evening, Thursday 30th March 7.30pm – 9.00pm The Coimin Centre Blessington.  Come & join us at an Easter themed evening hosted by local crafter Kate Reglinska showing us how to create small Easter Wreaths. This guarantees to be an imaginative & fun evening & you’ll take your creation home! No need to book, spaces available, no charge.  Contact us on 087 4346004  westwicklow15@gmail.com with any enquiries.

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)

Sunday 26th March Songs & Tunes Session, Zellers of Lacken, 6pm to 8:30pm. All listeners, singers, players very welcome. Any song/tune/style; any ability level; all ages. Just for fun! Bring a friend 🙂 Info.: Fiona 083 812 7317; lakesidesessions2@gmail.com

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 1st 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

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn 16th March: 4, 18, 20, 23. €25 Winner: Fr Richard Behan. Next Jackpot: €2,650

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

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.

St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579

  • NEWSLETTER ADS

Childminder Wanted in September for two young children. Call 087 6674382 for details

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 (1st 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

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

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.

Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. Open for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs. Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30-Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045 891 056 for an appointment.

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Painter & Decorator – Interior & Exterior Phone: Damien 085 826 0431

Paying too much for SKY or Virgin Media? We Install or Repair Free to Air and Saorview! No more Bills! Call Billy 086 868 0053

Local Builder Available – All services under one roof, Windows & Doors, Plumbing, Tiling, Roofing, Plastering, Electrical, Carpentry, Insulation. All levels of construction services available. Fully registered. Call Paul 086 309 1829

Interior Designs by Elizabeth Creative, Unique, Personal. Please phone: 086 088 1806. Email: elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com

Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook

German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997  www.germanautoworks.ie

Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service  www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com

Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie

HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487  www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com

Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327

  • PARISH INFORMATION

Church of Our Lady, Blessington – Mass Times: Saturday 6.00pm.  Sunday 10.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9.30am – Fr. Richard Behan PP. Tel: 045 865327

Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel – Mass Times: Sundays 11.30am

St. Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride – Mass Times: Sundays 11.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9am – Fr. Paraic McDermott C.S. Sp., Tel: 01 4582154

St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount – Mass Times: Sunday 10am

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Lacken – Mass Time: Saturdays 7.30pm

Parish Office: 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday Tel: 045 865 327

Issue 1445 March 19th 2023

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 18th 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 19th 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 17th 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 1st 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 21st March at 10:30am in the Avon Hotel. All welcome, Non-Members €5 per person.

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn 9th 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 16th & 17th 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 27th 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.

St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579

  • NEWSLETTER ADS

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

Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. Open for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs. Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30-Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045 891 056 for an appointment.

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Painter & Decorator – Interior & Exterior Phone: Damien 085 826 0431

Paying too much for SKY or Virgin Media? We Install or Repair Free to Air and Saorview! No more Bills! Call Billy 086 868 0053

Local Builder Available – All services under one roof, Windows & Doors, Plumbing, Tiling, Roofing, Plastering, Electrical, Carpentry, Insulation. All levels of construction services available. Fully registered. Call Paul 086 309 1829

Interior Designs by Elizabeth Creative, Unique, Personal. Please phone: 086 088 1806. Email: elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com

Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook

German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997  www.germanautoworks.ie

Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service  www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com

Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie

HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487  www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com

Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327

  • PARISH INFORMATION

Church of Our Lady, Blessington – Mass Times: Saturday 6.00pm.  Sunday 10.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9.30am – Fr. Richard Behan PP. Tel: 045 865327

Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel – Mass Times: Sundays 11.30am

St. Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride – Mass Times: Sundays 11.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9am – Fr. Paraic McDermott C.S. Sp., Tel: 01 4582154

St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount – Mass Times: Sunday 10am

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Lacken – Mass Time: Saturdays 7.30pm

Parish Office: 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday Tel: 045 865 327

Issue 1444 March 12th 2023

Mass intentions in Blessington

Hannah Jones (RD) Knockieran

Saturday: Bridget Cummins (Months Mind), PK Joyce (1st A), Nora English (1st A), Patrick Cassidy (A), Mary Nolan (A)

Sunday: Jim Farrell (A), Molly Keegan (RD)

We also remember: Paddy Magee (A), Margaret Byrne (A)

Monday: Mass offered for the sick.

Tuesday: Conor Keane (RD), Larry Bealin (RD)

Wednesday: Sally Egan (A), Tom Metcalfe (RD), Mary O’Connor (RD)

7.30pm Mass: Mary Carr (RD), John Hyland (RD)

Thursday: Blessington Deceased Mass Card List

Vigil 6.00pm Mass: Get Well Mass, Get Well Mass

10am St Patrick’s Day – Friday: John Magee (3rd A), Paddy Magee (A), Laurence Kinsella (A)

Saturday 11th March: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm – Children’s Church – all children (aged up to 10) & their families are invited 6pm Mass. Lacken 7.30pm. Confessions: After 6pm Mass

Sunday 12th March: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am – Crosschapel Church: 11.30am

Monday 13th March: Children Sharing Hope Service in Solidarity with children in Turkey & Syria following the Earthquake. Blessington at 7pm. All welcome to join.

Tuesday 14th March: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am

Wednesday 15th March: “A TIME OF HOPE” LENTEN TALKS at 7.30pm Mass. Sr Enda Mullan – Hope in Creation

Thursday 16th March: Vigil Mass for St Patrick’s Day – 6pm in Blessington

St Patrick’s Day: Friday 17th March. Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Valleymount: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am,

Saturday 18th March: 7.30pm Mass in Lacken – Celebrating St Patrick with Irish Music & Song

The family of the late Bridget Cummins wish to express their heartfelt thanks for the great support & comfort received throughout the recent sad loss of their mother. Special thanks to Clarke’s Funeral Directors, to Fr. Richard Behan for the beautiful funeral Mass, to Jenny Cullen for her wonderful singing, to Doctors Michael & Mary Joyce & to Bridget’s carers, who all gave her such great care & attention. Thanks in particular to all who visited the house, attended the funeral & sent mass cards. The holy sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Bridget’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Sat 11th March at 6pm.

A Mass of Thanksgiving will be offered on Friday 10th March at 9.30am in grateful appreciation for all the support & prayers I received during my cancer journey over the past year. Paula Daly (Finnegan)

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

St Patrick’s Day Parade Committee hosting a Senior Dance Evening in the Avon Blessington on Friday 10th 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 11th March in the Avon from 9pm til late. Over 18s only. Full bar & DJ. Admission €10, at door.

ST PATRICK’S DAY SOCIAL EVENT Manor Kilbride Hall. Friday 17th 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

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 13th March at 7:15pm in the Maldron Hotel, Tallaght. Free event, open to all

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 2nd March. 4, 5, 17, 18. €25 Winner: Marie Keogh. Next Jackpot is €2,575

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 16th & 17th 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 27th 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.

Would you like to practise your English? Blessington Library is setting up a new Conversation Café for adult learners. Starting on Saturday 11th March at 3.15pm, it will run every fortnight after that. Tea, coffee & chats. No booking required; just come along

St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579

  • NEWSLETTER ADS

WE ARE HIRING – Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort are hosting a Recruitment Evening on Thursday 16th March from 6pm to 8pm. We have a number of full time & part time positions available. If you are interested or would like more information, please visit our website www.tulfarrishotel.com/careers  or email hr@tulfarris.com

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.

GET INTO GOLF Enjoy some exercise, fresh air & socialising with friends & family. Blessington Lakes Golf Club W91 YF10. Programme: Commencing Wednesday 5th April at 7pm for 8 weeks. Just bring yourself, dress comfortable & wear runners! Cost €80. Contact:  086 342 1555

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

Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. Open for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs. Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30-Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045 891 056 for an appointment.

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Painter & Decorator – Interior & Exterior Phone: Damien 085 826 0431

Paying too much for SKY or Virgin Media? We Install or Repair Free to Air and Saorview! No more Bills! Call Billy 086 868 0053

Local Builder Available – All services under one roof, Windows & Doors, Plumbing, Tiling, Roofing, Plastering, Electrical, Carpentry, Insulation. All levels of construction services available. Fully registered. Call Paul 086 309 1829

Interior Designs by Elizabeth Creative, Unique, Personal. Please phone: 086 088 1806. Email: elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com

Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook

German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997  www.germanautoworks.ie

Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service  www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com

Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie

HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487  www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com

Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327

  • PARISH INFORMATION

Church of Our Lady, Blessington – Mass Times: Saturday 6.00pm.  Sunday 10.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9.30am – Fr. Richard Behan PP. Tel: 045 865327

Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel – Mass Times: Sundays 11.30am

St. Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride – Mass Times: Sundays 11.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9am – Fr. Paraic McDermott C.S. Sp., Tel: 01 4582154

St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount – Mass Times: Sunday 10am

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Lacken – Mass Time: Saturdays 7.30pm

Parish Office: 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday Tel: 045 865 327

 

Issue 1443 March 5th 2023

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

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

Tuesday 7th 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 8th 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 4th 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 11th March in Blessington

Valleymount Community Shed are having A Social Night on Saturday 4th 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 10th 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 11th 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 13th 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 16th & 17th 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 27th 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

  • 8th March – Carmel Dillon, Principal St Mary’s JS – FAITH IN SCHOOL
  • 15th March – Sr Enda Mullan, HOPE IN CREATION
  • 22nd March – Teresa Wood, Team Hope Ireland, CHRISTMAS SHOE BOX APPEAL
  • 29th March – Christina Malone, Parish Pastoral Worker, BUILDING HOPE IN CHURCH

St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579

  • NEWSLETTER ADS

Cleaner Wanted 2 Hours per week Kilbride area. Phone 087 252 6226

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

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 head our 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

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

Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. Open for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs. Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30-Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045 891 056 for an appointment.

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Painter & Decorator – Interior & Exterior Phone: Damien 085 826 0431

Paying too much for SKY or Virgin Media? We Install or Repair Free to Air and Saorview! No more Bills! Call Billy 086 868 0053

Local Builder Available – All services under one roof, Windows & Doors, Plumbing, Tiling, Roofing, Plastering, Electrical, Carpentry, Insulation. All levels of construction services available. Fully registered. Call Paul 086 309 1829

Interior Designs by Elizabeth Creative, Unique, Personal. Please phone: 086 088 1806. Email: elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com

Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook

German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997  www.germanautoworks.ie

Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service  www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com

Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie

HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487  www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com

Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327

  • PARISH INFORMATION

Church of Our Lady, Blessington – Mass Times: Saturday 6.00pm.  Sunday 10.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9.30am – Fr. Richard Behan PP. Tel: 045 865327

Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel – Mass Times: Sundays 11.30am

St. Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride – Mass Times: Sundays 11.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9am – Fr. Paraic McDermott C.S. Sp., Tel: 01 4582154

St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount – Mass Times: Sunday 10am

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Lacken – Mass Time: Saturdays 7.30pm

Parish Office: 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday Tel: 045 865 327

Issue1442 February 26 2023

Mass intentions in Blessington

Saturday: Hugh, Alicia & Billy Hamilton (A), Paul Howard (RD), Thomas & Johanna O’Neill (A)

Sunday: Trish & Eamon Hynes (A), Mick Reid (A), Mary Reid (A)

We also remember: Toddy Hennessy (A), Kathleen Hennessy (A)

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

Tuesday: Get Well Mass, Get Well Mass

Wednesday: Noeleen McGrath (RD), Margaret Finnegan (RD) 7.30pm Mass Jim O’Rourke (RD), Bridget Cummins (RD)

Thursday: Intentions Mass, Intentions Mass

Friday: 1st Friday of the Month, Mass will be offered for all on the November list of the dead.

Archbishop Farrell has asked for a Diocesan Collection to be taken up in support of the people of Turkey & Syria affected by the devastating earthquakes. The Collection will take place this weekend & will replace the SHARE collection. The donations will be channelled through Trócaire, who are working with partners in the affected area. They have the capability to ensure that any funds raised in Ireland will be managed appropriately to meet the needs of those most badly affected.

Saturday 25th February: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken 7.30pm. Confessions: After 6pm Mass in Blessington

Sunday 26th February: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am, Crosschapel Church: 11.30am

Tuesday 28th February: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am in Blessington

Wednesday 1st March: “A TIME OF HOPE” LENTEN TALKS at 7.30pm Mass every Wednesday during Lent in Church of Our Lady Blessington. Week 2 Wed 1st March Ger Gallagher, AMRI Communications – SPORT & FAITH.

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.

Friday 3rd March: 1st Friday of the Month, Mass will be offered for all on the November list of the dead. Padre Pio Blessing will be available after this Mass. If the sick or housebound wish to receive Holy Communion in their home, please call the Parish Office to arrange – 045 865 327.  The visits take place on the First Friday of the Month.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER: Ecumenical Service at 10am in Church of Our Lady Blessington. ALL WELCOME

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

First Communion Preparation Mass will take place in Valleymount  on Sunday 5th March at 10am

Sunday 26th February. Songs & Tunes Session, Zellers of Lacken, 6pm to 8:30pm. All listeners, singers, players very welcome. Any song/tune/style; any ability level; all ages. Just for fun! Bring a friend 🙂 Info: Fiona 083 812 7317 lakesidesessions2@gmail.com

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

Mindfulness Workshop in Blessington Library. Tuesday, 28th February at 6.30pm. A gentle session of mindfulness that will engage your heart and mind, moving you towards balance in this busy world. Sian Keary is an Occupational Nurse and an Accredited Psychotherapist. Booking required: blessingtonlib@wicklowcoco.ie  or 045 891 740

Thank you to everyone who contributed money & spot prizes for the pub quiz in The Avon on Thursday 16th February. € 3492 was collected & has been sent to Unicef for their Turkey / Syria appeal.

 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 16th February. 6, 11, 17, 24. €25 Winner: Margaret O’Dwyer Next Jackpot is €2,500

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 16th & 17th February for midterm break.

Valleymount Community Shed are having A Social Night on Saturday 4th 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.

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 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 27th 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

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

St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579

  • NEWSLETTER ADS

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.

YOGA Classes New Term starts 23rd 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

Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. Open for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs. Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30-Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045 891 056 for an appointment.

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Painter & Decorator – Interior & Exterior Phone: Damien 085 826 0431

Paying too much for SKY or Virgin Media? We Install or Repair Free to Air and Saorview! No more Bills! Call Billy 086 868 0053

Local Builder Available – All services under one roof, Windows & Doors, Plumbing, Tiling, Roofing, Plastering, Electrical, Carpentry, Insulation. All levels of construction services available. Fully registered. Call Paul 086 309 1829

Interior Designs by Elizabeth Creative, Unique, Personal. Please phone: 086 088 1806. Email: elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com

Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook

German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997  www.germanautoworks.ie

Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service  www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com

Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie

HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487  www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com

Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327

  • PARISH INFORMATION

Church of Our Lady, Blessington – Mass Times: Saturday 6.00pm.  Sunday 10.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9.30am – Fr. Richard Behan PP. Tel: 045 865327

Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel – Mass Times: Sundays 11.30am

St. Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride – Mass Times: Sundays 11.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9am – Fr. Paraic McDermott C.S. Sp., Tel: 01 4582154

St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount – Mass Times: Sunday 10am

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Lacken – Mass Time: Saturdays 7.30pm

Parish Office: 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday Tel: 045 865 327

Issue 1441 February 19th 2023

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

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

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

ASH WEDNESDAY – 22nd 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 22nd 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 26th 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 16th & 17th February for midterm break.

Valleymount Community Shed are having A Social Night on Saturday 4th 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 23rd February at 7.45pm. Garden Talk by Brid Kelleher AOIFA & NAFAS. Visitors welcome €8

Blessington History Society is holding its AGM on Tuesday 21st 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 3rd March at 10am in Church of Our Lady Blessington. ALL WELCOME

McGreal’s FREE CPR Training in the Primary Care Centre Pharmacy on Thursday 23rd 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 22nd  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 26th 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 27th 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

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

St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579

  • NEWSLETTER ADS

Single Room To Rent in Blessington. Phone 087 750 8644

YOGA Classes New Term starts 23rd 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

Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. Open for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs. Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30-Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045 891 056 for an appointment.

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Painter & Decorator – Interior & Exterior Phone: Damien 085 826 0431

Paying too much for SKY or Virgin Media? We Install or Repair Free to Air and Saorview! No more Bills! Call Billy 086 868 0053

Local Builder Available – All services under one roof, Windows & Doors, Plumbing, Tiling, Roofing, Plastering, Electrical, Carpentry, Insulation. All levels of construction services available. Fully registered. Call Paul 086 309 1829

Interior Designs by Elizabeth Creative, Unique, Personal. Please phone: 086 088 1806. Email: elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com

Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook

German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997  www.germanautoworks.ie

Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service  www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com

Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie

HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487  www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com

Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327

  • PARISH INFORMATION

Church of Our Lady, Blessington – Mass Times: Saturday 6.00pm.  Sunday 10.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9.30am – Fr. Richard Behan PP. Tel: 045 865327

Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel – Mass Times: Sundays 11.30am

St. Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride – Mass Times: Sundays 11.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9am – Fr. Paraic McDermott C.S. Sp., Tel: 01 4582154

St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount – Mass Times: Sunday 10am

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Lacken – Mass Time: Saturdays 7.30pm

Parish Office: 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday Tel: 045 865 327

Issue 1440 February 12th 2023

Mass intentions in Blessington

Lorna Tenorio Catamora (RD) Blessington & Philippines, Paul Goslin (RD) Lucan, Noel Farrell (RD) Kiltegan, Kathleen Doogan (RD) Donegal

Saturday: Peter Nolan Snr (A), Peter Doyle (A), Margaret Ryall (Birthday Rem), Denis Ryall (A), May & Andy Metcalfe (A)

Sunday: John, Laurance & Joe Wright (A), William & Elizabeth Coyle (A), Peter & Mary Brady (A), Patrick & William Brady (A), Cecil & Kathleen Collins (A)

We also remember: Michael & Ann Mary Norton (A), Larry, Mary & Matthew Lennon (Rem)

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

Tuesday: Special Living Intentions, Thinking of you Mass

Wednesday: John, Laurence & Joe Wright (A), Sheila McDonald (RD)

Thursday: Blessington Deceased Mass Card List

Friday: Bridie Cummins (RD), Joseph Murphy (RD)

Saturday 11th February: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken: 7.30pm – 1st Communion Preparation Mass. Confessions: After 6pm Mass in Blessington

Sunday 12th February: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am, Crosschapel Church: 11.30am

Tuesday 14th February: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Wednesday 15th 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 this weekend 11th & 12th February. Accord Dublin needs your support this year more than ever.

MANY THANKS to Blessington Millennium Choir for their generous Donation of €1000 from their Christmas Concert to help with the running costs of the Coimin Centre. We are most grateful. Fr Richard Behan

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

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 2nd February. 3, 7, 13, 15. €25 Winner: Helen Teague. Next Jackpot is €2,425

Blessington AFC U15 Team CAKE SALE on Sunday 12th 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.

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 St Joseph’s Hall, Blessington (NOTE: Change of Venue) 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

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 22nd  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.

💗Tuesday, 14th February at 6.30pm in Blessington Library 💗Mind yourself this Valentine’s Day with an introduction to the practice of mindfulness & its origins. Participants will be getting in tune with their heart, mind & body. Presented by Sian Keary, an Occupational Nurse & an Accredited Psychotherapist. Booking required: 045 891 740 or email:  blessingtonlib@wicklowcoco.ie

2023 DIVINE MERCY NATIONAL CONFERENCE 17th 18th & 19th February. ‘Act justly, Love tenderly, Walk humbly with your God’ – Micah 6:8. The conference will take place in the Main Hall of the RDS. Speakers will include: Fr Hayden Williams; Fr James Blount SOLT; Fr Eunan McDonnell SDB, Fr Chris Alar MIC; Fr Billy Swan; Fr Eamonn McCarthy; Sr Mary Clare Kernneally & more.. Tickets: Saturday €35, Sunday €25 or Weekend Ticket €40. From www.divinemercyconference.com or call 085 221 6128. Email: divinemercyconference@gmaial.com

Blessington Car Boot Sale Returns to St. Kevin’s Hall on Sunday 26th 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.

Online Lenten Retreat.The Priory Institute is delighted to offer a FREE OF CHARGE online retreat: ‘Reflecting on the Sunday Gospels of Lent as Stepping Stones on our Journey to Easter’  presented by Seán Goan. Visit our website www.prioryinstitute.com

St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579

  • NEWSLETTER ADS

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

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

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

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

Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. Open for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs. Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30-Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045 891 056 for an appointment.

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Painter & Decorator – Interior & Exterior Phone: Damien 085 826 0431

Paying too much for SKY or Virgin Media? We Install or Repair Free to Air and Saorview! No more Bills! Call Billy 086 868 0053

Local Builder Available – All services under one roof, Windows & Doors, Plumbing, Tiling, Roofing, Plastering, Electrical, Carpentry, Insulation. All levels of construction services available. Fully registered. Call Paul 086 309 1829

Interior Designs by Elizabeth Creative, Unique, Personal. Please phone: 086 088 1806. Email: elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com

Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook

German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997  www.germanautoworks.ie

Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service  www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com

Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie

HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487  www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com

Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327

  • PARISH INFORMATION

Church of Our Lady, Blessington – Mass Times: Saturday 6.00pm.  Sunday 10.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9.30am – Fr. Richard Behan PP. Tel: 045 865327

Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel – Mass Times: Sundays 11.30am

St. Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride – Mass Times: Sundays 11.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9am – Fr. Paraic McDermott C.S. Sp., Tel: 01 4582154

St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount – Mass Times: Sunday 10am

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Lacken – Mass Time: Saturdays 7.30pm

Parish Office: 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday Tel: 045 865 327

Issue 1439 February 5th 2023

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

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

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

Wednesday 8th 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 11th & 12th 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 26th January. 12, 13, 15, 19. €25 Winner: Robin Fallon. Next Jackpot is €2,400

Blessington AFC U15 Team CAKE SALE on Sunday 12th 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 6th 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 22nd  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 28th 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.

St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579

  • NEWSLETTER ADS

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 22nd 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

Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. Open for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs. Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30-Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045 891 056 for an appointment.

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Painter & Decorator – Interior & Exterior Phone: Damien 085 826 0431

Paying too much for SKY or Virgin Media? We Install or Repair Free to Air and Saorview! No more Bills! Call Billy 086 868 0053

Local Builder Available – All services under one roof, Windows & Doors, Plumbing, Tiling, Roofing, Plastering, Electrical, Carpentry, Insulation. All levels of construction services available. Fully registered. Call Paul 086 309 1829

Interior Designs by Elizabeth Creative, Unique, Personal. Please phone: 086 088 1806. Email: elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com

Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook

German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997  www.germanautoworks.ie

Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service  www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com

Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie

HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487  www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com

Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327

  • PARISH INFORMATION

Church of Our Lady, Blessington – Mass Times: Saturday 6.00pm.  Sunday 10.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9.30am – Fr. Richard Behan PP. Tel: 045 865327

Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel – Mass Times: Sundays 11.30am

St. Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride – Mass Times: Sundays 11.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9am – Fr. Paraic McDermott C.S. Sp., Tel: 01 4582154

St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount – Mass Times: Sunday 10am

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Lacken – Mass Time: Saturdays 7.30pm

Parish Office: 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday Tel: 045 865 327

Issue 1438 January 29th 2023

Mass intentions in Blessington

Maureen Roberts Carroll (RD) Westpark

Saturday: Lil Horan (A), Ray Daniels (A), Margaret Hayden (A), Gerard O’Hanlon (Birthday Rem)

Sunday: Liam O’Reilly (A), Ann O’Byrne (A)

We also remember

Monday: Mass offered for the Sick and those in hospital

Tuesday: Ann O’Byrne (A), Fr Kevin Lyon (RD)

Wednesday: Eileen Bungan (RD), Gus Hogarty (RD)

Thursday: Maura Spring (RD), Ann O’Donnell (RD)

Friday: 1st Friday of the Month, Mass will be offered for all on the November list of the dead.

Saturday 28th January: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken: 7.30pm – 1st Communion Preparation Mass. Confessions: After 6pm Mass in Blessington

Sunday 29th January: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am Month’s Mind Mass for Fr Kevin Lyon at 11.30am in Crosschapel Church.

Tuesday 31st January: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Wednesday 1st February: Feast of St Brigid.

Thursday 2nd February: Candlemas Day – Candles for use in the home will be blessed at our Masses.

Candles available from the Parish Office in advance of this Mass.

Friday 3rd February 2023: Feast Day of St Blaise. Blessing of Throats will take place after Mass. 1st Friday of the Month, Mass will be offered for all on the November list of the dead. Padre Pio Blessing will be available after this Mass.

In January, we pray with Pope Francis that educators may be credible witnesses who help the youngest and most vulnerable. May they teach fraternity rather than competition. ‘We want to be defenders of the identity and dignity of every individual and to teach young people to accept everyone without discrimination

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 19th January: 5, 23, 26, 27 – €25 Winner: Seanna Pender. Next Jackpot is €2,375

We are looking for a good home for HARVEY & CLINTON Fr. Kevin’s cats. They are 3 years old, brothers, neutered, very friendly, house trained & used a cat flap in Crosschapel Parochial House. We really would love them to be homed together. If you think you can adopt them, please call: 089 437 5880

St Brigid’s N.S. Manor Kilbride are now accepting enrolments for all pupils wishing to start in September. Please contact the school office on 01 458 2550 for an enrolment form. St Brigid’s will also be having an open evening for all prospective students & their families on Thursday 2nd February from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. All the staff look forward to seeing you there.

5th & 6th Class Primary Disco on Friday 27th January in St Joseph Hall, Blessington 7pm to 10pm. Admission €10 paid at door. Crisps & drinks sold inside if they wish. Strict supervision at all times & all leaders are fully Garda vetted. More info on our Facebook page – Blessington St Patrick’s Day Parade Committee or phone 087 781 1691.  all proceeds go to this year’s fundraiser which is Community Pool for West Wicklow. Students from all Schools very Welcome!!!

885 – Local Link Kildare –  https://bustimes.org/ A daily Local Link Bus Ballymore, Blessington, Naas & Sallins Railway Station – by Jacobus. Info: Pat 086 075 2072

Blessington – Naas – Newbridge Link – TUESDAY ONLY as part of rural development, initiated by Wicklow Rural Partnership Development. Bus leaves from Blessington Bus Shelter at 10am via Naas to Newbridge Whitewater Shopping Centre. Returning at 1.45pm from the Centre. For Info Call: Jane: 087 266 0616 or Pat: 086 075 2072

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 6th February at 8pm in Kilteel Community Centre. Tickets €10 Booking 087 791 4205

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.

St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579

  • NEWSLETTER ADS

Apprentice Carpenter and Labourer required for local builder. Candidates must have a strong work ethic. Call Sean: 087 2887924.

Would you like to work for McGreals Group? McGreals currently have the following opportunities: Full-time Health Care Advisors, Blessington & Newbridge – Part-time Beautician, Blessington – Full-time Managing Pharmacy Technician, Blessington – Full-time Pharmacists – Wicklow, Kildare, Westmeath, Meath. To apply for any of the roles, please send a copy of your CV to hr@mcgreals.ie

Wellness Festival, Sunday 12th February, 11am to 6pm, Lake Shore Village, Blessington, presented by Lake Shore Wellness Centre, in collaboration with The Avon & Rise Nordic Spa. Full schedule of experiential talks & workshops –meditations, drumming, sound baths, wellness talks, cacao, breathwork & movement.  Mini Treatments, Outdoors

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

Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. Open for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs. Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30-Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045 891 056 for an appointment.

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Painter & Decorator – Interior & Exterior Phone: Damien 085 826 0431

Paying too much for SKY or Virgin Media? We Install or Repair Free to Air and Saorview! No more Bills! Call Billy 086 868 0053

Local Builder Available – All services under one roof, Windows & Doors, Plumbing, Tiling, Roofing, Plastering, Electrical, Carpentry, Insulation. All levels of construction services available. Fully registered. Call Paul 086 309 1829

Interior Designs by Elizabeth Creative, Unique, Personal. Please phone: 086 088 1806. Email: elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com

Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook

German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997  www.germanautoworks.ie

Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service  www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com

Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie

HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487  www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com

Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327

  • PARISH INFORMATION

Church of Our Lady, Blessington – Mass Times: Saturday 6.00pm.  Sunday 10.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9.30am – Fr. Richard Behan PP. Tel: 045 865327

Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel – Mass Times: Sundays 11.30am

St. Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride – Mass Times: Sundays 11.00am

Weekdays: Monday to Friday 9am – Fr. Paraic McDermott C.S. Sp., Tel: 01 4582154

St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount – Mass Times: Sunday 10am

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Lacken – Mass Time: Saturdays 7.30pm

Parish Office: 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday Tel: 045 865 327