Mass intentions in Blessington

Saturday: Fr. Paddy Byrne (1^st A), Alice Garry (A), Pat Garry (A), Jamie Mahon (A), Mary Quinn (A), Bennie & Imelda Plummer (A)

Sunday: Patricia Murphy (1^st A), Peggy Howlin (A), Sean & Betty Tutty (A), Richard Murphy (A), Michael Cullen (A), Sean & Betty Tutty (A)

We also remember: Peter Fennell (A), Mary McDonald Maguire (A), Rebecca Hopkins (A), Simon & Maisie Hopkins (Rem)

Monday: Mass offered for the Sick

Tuesday: Robert Hennessy (Birthday Rem), Special Intentions, Get Well Int

Wednesday: Mary Garvey (RD), Mary Flood (RD)

Thursday: Sally Tyrrell (RD), Elizabeth Davin (RD)

Friday: Paul Hanlon (RD), Brian Gaffney (RD)

Saturday 21^st January: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken: 7.30pm. Confessions: After 6pm Mass in Blessington

Sunday 22^nd January: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am, Crosschapel: 11.30am.

Tuesday 24^th January: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Sunday 29^th January – Month’s Mind Mass for Fr Kevin Lyon will take place at 11.30am in Crosschapel Church.

On this the 1^st Anniversary (23/1/22) of the death of our beloved Brother Fr. Pat Byrne, SPS, Kiltegan, the Byrne family wish to thank the Blessington first responders & emergency services who attended Paddy that night. Clarke’s Undertakers for their professional but personal service. We would also like to express our deepest gratitude to Fr Tom O’Connor & Fr David Walsh for a lovely & fitting service. Also greatly appreciated were the messages of sympathy & support from our neighbours and friends.

George, Yvonne, Sheena & Cathal Allen would like to thank everyone for their kindness & support shown to them on the recent death of Kathleen. Thank you so much to all who attended the wake, funeral Mass & burial & to those who sent floral tributes, Mass cards & online condolences. Thanks to Fr. Behan & Clarkes Funeral Directors for their kindness & help to us. Thanks to Paul Ryan for his music & singing in the Church, to local businesses in the town for their tributes. We would like to express our gratitude to all our family, friends & neighbours for the continued support. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude.

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 Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 12^th Jan 10, 12, 23, 24. €25 Winner: Margaret O’Dwyer. Next Jackpot is €2,325

West Wicklow Cancer Support – Welcomes you to our January Monthly Drop-In Evening on Thurs 26^th Jan 7.30pm – 9.00pm in the Coimin Centre Blessington.  We will be holding an Introduction to Journaling hosted by Carmel Larkin. In the first phase of the New year, January is a time for reflection & progression. Journaling can be part of your self-care & wellness journey.  Come & join us, no charge, no need to book. Info: 087 434 6004  westwicklow15@gmail.com

Blessington Musical & Dramatic Society would like to thank everyone who came to our panto in the Tramway Theatre, you were an amazing audience! We would also like to thank the Theatre committee, St Mary’s SNS, Brian Brady, Sinead O’Brien, The Stationery Store, Barry Hamilton, Next Door Off License, The Office Shop, Liz White photography, Clare Ward, The Moody Rooster, Connor Sweeney & crew & all the volunteers front of house & backstage that made our panto such a success! Until next time…

Thank you to all participants in the GOAL Mile on Christmas Day. Our biggest ever turnout raised €1400 for the charity. Well done!

5^th & 6^th Class Primary Disco on Friday 27^th 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

As part of the Healthy Ireland at your Library Programme. Siel Bleu are delivering free Chair Yoga sessions for older adults. The sessions will take place on Tuesdays at 10am in Blessington Library’s Community Room starting 24^th Jan for 6 weeks.  Let us know if you would like to join us: 045 891 740.  blessingtonlib@wicklowcoco.ie

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 2^nd February from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. All the staff look forward to seeing you there.

House Key Found – Orange Fob with the initials M S. It also a very distinctive black & green sneaker with ‘ASICS’ logo.  Found in Church / School Car Park last weekend. Call the School Office: 045 865 501

Childminder Available in minders home, Blessington area. Full or Part-time. Brilliant references available. 086 868 1394

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

Job Vacancy R&H have vacancies for full time general operatives. Please email your CV to Sharon for further information.  s.casey@rh-lenses.com

Shillelagh Quarries Ltd. Requires Construction Plant Fitter to maintain quarry plant. Basic welding required. Contact: TJ 087 612 9473

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

Leigha Peters Driving School are Hiring. Full-time Positions available for Qualified & Trainee Driving Instructors. Email Victoria at info@leighapeters.ie  for more information

Job Opportunities at VENTAC Blessington. Ventac design, manufacture & supply Acoustic Solutions for Commercial & Industrial Vehicle OEM’s. We have the following vacancies for Production Personnel at our Head Offices in Fitzwilliam House, Blessington, Co. Wicklow, W91 V972: General Operatives / Machine Operators. On-site Installer (2-3 years construction experience required) The successful candidate must be enthusiastic & able to work on their own initiative with good attention to detail. To apply, please email your CV & cover letter to hr@ventac.com

Beginners YOGA Classes.  St. Mary’s Junior School, Blessington, Thursdays 7:30pm. Essential to book class in advance. Nancy Hickey – 087 639 1676. Qualified Yoga Instructor

Wellness Festival, Sunday 12^th 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

Butter Mountain Golf & Leisure Club 2023 Membership Deals 7-Day €575 – 5-Day €475 – U25s – €360. All inclusive of fees – For more information. Email: hello@buttermountaingolf.ie Phone: 01 458 2622. Web: www.buttermountaingolf.ie

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

FLUTE LESSONS At Manor Kilbride Music School. Beginner to Advanced level. Internationally renowned teacher & performer Lina Andonovska is offering one-on-one tuition in classical flute. She brings to her teaching the energy & enthusiasm that stems from leading a diverse & active performing career. New Term commences 23^rd January. Enquires:  087 965 6257 or info@manorkilbridemusic.com

Fr Kevin Lyon RIP – 16^th June 1932 – 31^st December 2022. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Fr Kevin’s Philosophy Of Life I will greet each day with joy in my heart. I will welcome everybody I meet with friendship, as a brother or sister in whom the spirit of God dwells. I will be conscious of the fact that every hour, every minute of the day is a special instalment on life’s allotted span and that every moment bears a Satchel on its back with only the grace to live that time to the full. I will not agonise over the lost opportunities of the past or fantasise over the dreams of tomorrow.

Mass intentions in Blessington

Saturday: Tom Tyrrell (1^st A), Maurice O’Sullivan (1^st A), Liam, John & Ann Craul (A), Brenda Dewey (A)

Sunday: Bill Roche (Mths Mind), Leo Howlin (A), Deceased Members of Darcy & Murphy Families, Eric Shirran (A), John Butler (A)

We also remember: Myles Balfe (A)

Monday: Mass offered for the Sick & those in hospital

Tuesday: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions

Wednesday: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions

Thursday: Blessington Christmas Mass Intentions

Friday: Martin Cowell (RD) Liam Kavanagh (RD)

Saturday 7^th January: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken: 7.30pm. Confessions: After 6pm Mass in Blessington

Sunday 8^th January: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am, Crosschapel: 11.30am.

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

Epiphany: The Wise Men arrive in Valleymount Sunday 8^th January at 3.30pm. Come and pay homage with them. As this is an outdoor event please dress for the weather. Light refreshments served afterwards

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 22^nd December: 3, 12, 18, 24. €25 Winner: Bernard Wilcox. Numbers drawn on 29^th December: 18, 19, 23, 28. €25 Winner: Trevor Murphy, Next Jackpot is €2,275

Many thanks to everyone for their donations at the Crib Exhibition. €200 has been sent to Fr Alan Whelan in Rumbek, Sudan where families have been suffering the effects of drought because of climate change.

Christmas Dues envelopes are still available in our Churches for those who would like to contribute. Due to the high cost of postage the envelopes were not mailed out this year so we hope that you will pick one up for your donation as you visit the Church and drop it into a collection box or into the Parish Office

Blessington Musical & Dramatic Society (BMDS) are delighted to be back in the Tramway Theatre with the panto ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ Thursday 12^th & Friday 13^th January at 8pm Saturday 14^th January at 2pm & 6pm Sunday 15^th January at 2pm Looking forward to seeing you all there! Tickets on sale from The Office Shop & Next Door €12 per ticket. Special Concession for Thursday show: €10 each

Valleymount Parent & Baby/Toddler Playgroup meets every Friday during school term from 9.30am to12 in Valleymount Hall. New parents most welcome. Pop in for a cuppa & a chat.

Lacken Naíonra Open for enrolments. ECCE & part-time places available. For information or to book a viewing, please contact 045 865 086. Follow us on Facebook – Lacken National School.

‘Good Morning Kildare’ Service provides a FREE friendly phone call on a regular basis to adults in their own home or place of residence.It is a friendly chat about everyday things e.g., Gardening, Cookery, Sport, TV, Pets etc. All calls are strictly private & confidential. All the phone operators are Garda Vetted. The service operates from 9.15am to 2.30pm Monday to Friday. ‘Good Morning Kildare’ supports Independent Living & Social Connection. The service is supported by the HSE, DEASP, An Garda Siochána. If you are interested in availing of this service or know somebody who would benefit, please contact 045-859037 / 045-870268 or E-mail: goodmorningkildare@yahoo.ie

West Wicklow Cancer Support Mindful soundbath Meditation with Gemma Deeney on Wednesdays at 11am in the Primary Care Centre Blessington. No cost, open to all. Do bring your own cushion, a blanket & a friend. Call: 087 4346004 or email westwicklow15@gmail.com

New Year! New Start! Courses available for all at the Further Education & Training Centre Blessington & Baltinglass: Tourism, Healthcare, Office Skills, E-business, SNA, Pathways to Employment & more. Please call Irene Hayden 086 806 1569 or Karen Townsend 086 850 3833

4^th SUNDAY OF ADVENT – The birth of Christ is almost upon us now. We are reminded in Isaiah’s prophecy of the long-awaited Emmanuel – God in our midst.

Mass intentions this week in Blessington

Kathleen Allen (RD) Blessington

Saturday 6pm: Mary & Tom Tivnan (A), May Nolan (A) & Nolan Family Blessington, Nolan Family, Baltinglass, Monaghan Family, UK

Sunday 10am: William Clarke (A), Margaret Roche (A), Bill Smith (25th A), Henry Lee (A)

We also Remember: Patrick & Gretta Reidy, Frances & Leo Sheridan, John O’Kane, Frank Reid (A), Annie, Paddy & Mary Carroll, Marjorie & Denis Murray, Heather & Denis Rock, Peter & Micheline Comey, Catherine & Jimmy Devoy (A), Rosemary, Ned & Mary Walsh (A), John & Bridget Tipper, Kathleen Smith, Sheila & Seamus Zeller, Kit & Winnifred Mahon

Deceased Members of: Clarke & Nixon Families, Doyle Family, Cagney & Manning Families, Daniels & Evans Families,

Monday: Mass offered for the Sick & those in hospital

Tuesday: Mick Mills (Months Mind) Paddy & Pauline O’Brien, Michael & Lawrence Behan, Dec Mem of the Behan Family

Wednesday: Margaret Roche (A), Sp Living Intention

Thursday: Blessington Deceased Mass Card List

Friday: Gerry Foley (A), Jimmy Heaney (A), Betty Heaney, Tom Foley & Jim Foley (Rem), Jim & May Breen (A), Mary Breen (Rem), Mick & Ann Ryan (Rem),Cathy Ryan (Rem)

Christmas Dues: Envelopes are now available in our Churches for those who would like to contribute.

Saturday 17^th December: Christmas Community Service Prayers and Carols at 4pm at Church of Our Lady moving in procession  to St Marys Church for Carols. Refreshments afterwards in St Kevin’s Community Hall. Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken: 7.30pm Confessions: after 6pm Mass in Blessington

Sunday 18^th December: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am, Crosschapel: 11.30am.

Monday 19th December: Christmas Reconciliation Service at 7:30pm. Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Rosary & Holy Hour will resume after Christmas

Blessington Parish Annual CRIB EXHIBITION in the Coimin Centre Saturday 17^th December from 11am to 4pm and before & after 6pm Mass Sunday 18^th December From 10.30am to 1pm “Cribs from around the World” Some beautiful new additions to the display this year.

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. 15^th December 6, 12, 13, 22 €25 Winner: Peggy Nash. Next Jackpot is €2,220

Social Dancing Donard Community Hall (W91YW57) Saturday 17^th December from 9pm to 12. Music by Teddy & Cathal Barry – Adm €10 – Refreshments Served

Kilbride & Lakeside Music Committee Present a Christmas Concert in Manor Kilbride Hall on Saturday 17^th December at 7pm. Featuring Kilbride & Lakeside Youth Ensemble, also soloists & singers. Guest artist- the amazing Aoife Garry on Trumpet. Family friendly. All welcome. Pay at the door €10

PLEASE SUPPORT St. Mary’s Schools by buying our Christmas cards! Available to purchase in the Parish Office, Brew 21, the Post Office, Martikas Hair Salon, the Tourist Office & Enda’s Flower Shop. Pack of 10 cards – two lovely local designs in each pack. €6 per pack or 2 packs for €10.

Goal Mile – CHRISTMAS DAY @ 12:30pm. The annual GOAL MILE will take place at the track in Blessington Community College. Walk it, run it, all are welcome. So, come along and help raise funds for GOAL and work up an appetite!

Valleymount & Lacken Private Members Draw 2022 December Winners: Breda O’ Brien, Frances & Billy Kavanagh, Aoibheann & Teagan Reid, Mary & Don O’ Sullivan, Bridie & Paddy Gleeson, Catherine & Sean Miley, Tommy Mooney, Brid & Peter O’ Sullivan, Kathleen & Philip Gallagher, Ann Nolan, Eimear Miley, Tom & Fiona Guing, Seamus Balfe, Anne Broe, Ann Marie Clarke, Mary & Jack Patton, Kathleen & Philip Leonard Paul Farrell, Sadie & Seamus Miley, Kenny’s Supervalu, Molly & Kevin Byrne, Jacinta Shannon, Betty O Brien, Rose Zeller, Mary Tipper, Charmaine Quinn, Philip O’ Reilly, Aislinn & Liam Reid, Fr Richard Behan, Catherine O’Mahony, Matt Reid,  Mary & Sean Brennan, Aine & Kevin Keogh Sheila & Pat Geoghegan Siobhan & Derek McEvoy, Cynthia & Ronan Brophy Joan & Sean Farrington, Maggie Schofield, Theo Clarke

West Wicklow Cancer Support would like to wish the wider Blessington Community a very happy & peaceful Christmas. Thank you to everyone for your ongoing support & invaluable community spirit, it really is appreciated. We are available by phone & email over the Christmas period, contact us on 087 434 6004 westwicklow15@gmail.com Nollaig Shona Duit!”

The Pop-Up Pool is only here for 1 more week! Community Pool for West Wicklow would like to thank everyone for supporting the Swim Ireland Pop-Up Pool during its time in Blessington. The pool will be open for public swims until 7pm on Tuesday December 20^th  For information on swim times and to book visit  https://tinyurl.com/WWPopUpPool Make sure to book your swim before it’s gone!

CROSSCARE Christmas Food Poverty Appeal. This Christmas, Crosscare are asking for help for the Food Poverty Service, where they support families who find it hard to provide nutritious food. Sadly, almost 800 families and individuals, including 1,000 children, have needed help from the Service this year & demand is likely to increase in the coming months. Crosscare ensures they have a good supply of food while at the same time looking at all the issues that may have brought them into food poverty. If you can, you can donate online at www.crosscare.ie or call 01 8360011 or send a cheque or postal order to Crosscare Christmas Appeal, 2 Saint Mary’s Place North, Dublin D07 Y768. Envelopes will also be available in all Churches

Lacken Naíonra Open for enrolments. ECCE & part-time places available. For information or to book a viewing, please contact 045 865 086. Follow us on Facebook – Lacken National School.

Valleymount Parent & Baby/Toddler Playgroup meets every Friday during school term from 9.30am to12 in Valleymount Hall. New parents most welcome. Pop in for a cuppa & a chat.

Tús Job Opportunity in Blessington County Wicklow Partnership’s Tús Programme has a work placement opportunity in Blessington Educate Together National School Position available: Caretaker Gain valuable work experience while contributing to your community at the same time. The placement will be for 1 year & participants will be required to work for 19½ hours per week & are free to take up other employment outside of their 19½ hours. To qualify, you must be fully unemployed for 12 months. Tús payment is at the full rate of Jobseekers Allowance plus €22.50 top-up. For more information or to apply contact Neil Doyle on 087 640 9273 or ndoyle@wicklowpartnership.ie

2^nd SUNDAY OF ADVENT: The message of repentance during this season of Advent is a call to each of us to look into our lives, to renew & deepen our relationship with God.

Mass intentions this week in Blessington

Noel Murphy (RD) Tinode, Tina Fennan (RD) Ballymore, Bill Roche (RD)Blessington

Saturday 6pm: Essie Hanlon (10th A), Jimmy Hanlon (Rem)

Sunday 10am: Kitty Whittle (1st A), Tom & Ellen Cummins (A), Chrissie & Noel Cummins (A), Margaret & Dan Ryan (A), Brendan & EBA Cummins (A), Lily, Violet & Gerry Browne (A)

We also Remember: Patrick & Josephine Farrington (A), Jim & Kathleen Hamilton (A), Molly White O’Rourke (Rem)

Monday:  Mass offered for the Sick

Tuesday: Laszlo Mate (A), Nicky Bennett (A)

Wednesday: Pat Mitchell (RD), John O’Rourke (RD)

7.30pm – Holy Day Vigil Mass: Remembrance for Deceased Members of Blessington GAA

10am Holy Day – Thursday: Michael Behan (A), Tony Mahon (RD)

Friday: Get Well Int, Get Well Int.

St Vincent de Paul Annual Collection will take place at all Masses next weekend, 10^th & 11^th DecemberReplacing the Share Collection. Please give generously.

Saturday 3^rd December: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken: 7.30pm. Confessions: after 6pm Mass in Blessington

Sunday 4^th December: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am, Crosschapel: 11.30am.

Tuesday 6^th December: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Holy Day – Feast of the Immaculate Conception:

Wednesday 7^th December Vigil Mass for Holy Day 7.30pm in Blessington

Thursday 8^th December: Blessington: 10am Mass, Manor Kilbride: 11am Mass, Valleymount: 11.15am Mass

Joe Walsh & Family, Old Paddocks, would like to thank all who sent Mass Cards & messages of sympathy for the loss of his mother Carmel Walsh. Your kindness is greatly appreciated.

Valleymount Private Members Draw November Winners: Tommy & Jack Farrington, Teresa Mahon, Maureen Phibbs, Breda Broe, Ann & Gerry Malone.

Let There Be Christmas Blessington Millennium Choir invites you to join them in singing Christmas songs and carols to celebrate the festive season in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Sunday December 11^th at 4pm. Tickets €10 (Children under 12 free) (Includes fruit punch and mince pies) Tickets available from choir members & The Parish Office or call: 087 2343 1499 By kind permission of Fr Richard Behan P.P. Proceeds to Coimin Centre Blessington

Santa arrives in Manor Kilbride on 11^th December at 12.30pm. Also: Kilbride GAA Christmas Raffle, Cake Sale, Games & some stalls – in Manor Kilbride Hall – Proceeds towards the Playground for Manor Kilbride. All Welcome. Buy a Raffle ticket online today from €5 @ www.KilbrideGAA.com/shop Prizes include: €300 Voucher from Colin Murphy at BRYCO & One All Ireland Final Hurling Ticket for 2023. All Prizes are listed: https://www.kilbridegaa.com/news/santa-arrives-christmas-raffle/

Book Launch “Left at the Lamb” on Tuesday 13^th December at 6.45pm in Blessington Library. A flavour of the History & Heritage of the Blessington area by Aiden Cruise, David Harrington & Seamus Balfe. All Welcome

Christmas Community Service Prayers and Carols. Saturday 17^th December at 4pm at Church of Our Lady moving in procession  to St Mary’s Church for Carols. Refreshments afterwards in St Kevin’s Community Hall

Christmas Reconciliation Service: Monday 19^th December at 7:30pm Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Crib Exhibition will be on display beforehand in the Coimin Centre

Kilbride & Lakeside Music Committee Present a Christmas Concert in Manor Kilbride Hall on Saturday 17^th December at 7pm. Featuring Kilbride & Lakeside Youth Ensemble, also soloists & singers. Guest artist- the amazing Aoife Garry on Trumpet. Family friendly. All welcome. Pay at the door €10

“You Don’t Need Irish to Send Your Child to The Gaelscoil!” Gaelscoil na Lochanna is accepting places for the school year 2023-2024 from now up to 21^st December. Parents will be notified of places on 13^th January & will have to 27^th January to accept the place. There are 31 places available. Tá an fógra bliantiúl maidir le ligean isteach fógraithe anois ar www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com  mar aon le foirm iontrála. Spriocdháta dona hiarratais ná 21ú Nollaig agus cuirfear tuistí ar an eolas ar an 13ú Eanáir. Beidh ar thuistí/chaomhnóirí an áit a chinntiú roimh/ar an 27ú Eanáir 2023.Tá 31 spás sna Naíonáin ar fáil (más chuí). View the Annual Admissions Notice & access enrolment forms on the school website www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com “Gaelscoil na Lochanna will have an Open Night on  7^th December at 7:30pm  in the Gaelscoil for any parents interested  in joining the Gaelscoil”. Follow us on Instagram #gsnalochanna

PLEASE SUPPORT St. Mary’s Schools by buying our Christmas cards! Available to purchase in the Parish Office, Brew 21, the Post Office, Martikas Hair Salon, the Tourist Office & Enda’s Flower Shop. Pack of 10 cards – two lovely local designs in each pack. €6 per pack or 2 packs for €10.

CROSSCARE Christmas Food Poverty Appeal. This Christmas, Crosscare are asking for help for the Food Poverty Service, where they support families who find it hard to provide nutritious food. Sadly, almost 800 families and individuals, including 1,000 children, have needed help from the Service this year & demand is likely to increase in the coming months. Crosscare ensures they have a good supply of food while at the same time looking at all the issues that may have brought them into food poverty. If you can, you can donate online at www.crosscare.ie or call 01 8360011 or send a cheque or postal order to Crosscare Christmas Appeal, 2 Saint Mary’s Place North, Dublin D07 Y768. Envelopes will also be available in all Churches

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. 1st December: 5, 7, 21, 25 – €25 Winner: Seanna Pender. Next Jackpot is €2,0125

Lacken National School are now accepting enrolment applications for 2023/2024 school year. Enrolment applications also being accepted 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 to12 in Valleymount Hall. New parents most welcome. Pop in for a cuppa & a chat.

Tús Job Opportunity in Blessington County Wicklow Partnership’s Tús Programme has a work placement opportunity in Blessington Educate Together National School Position available: Caretaker Gain valuable work experience while contributing to your community at the same time. The placement will be for 1 year & participants will be required to work for 19½ hours per week & are free to take up other employment outside of their 19½ hours. To qualify, you must be fully unemployed for 12 months. Tús payment is at the full rate of Jobseekers Allowance plus €22.50 top-up. For more information or to apply contact Neil Doyle on 087 640 9273 or ndoyle@wicklowpartnership.ie

Are you a Bridge Player? If so, you are welcome to join Blessington Bridge Club. Resuming on Monday 17^th October & subsequent Mondays other than Holiday Mondays  at the KARE Centre which is located off the Blessington By-Pass. Ample car parking. Play begins at 7.30pm

Parent & Toddler Group in St Kevin’s Hall every Tuesday & Wednesday from 10am to12pm €4 per family per day

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

The Blessington Fencing Club Spaces available in the 8-11yrs Beginners Class in St Kevin’s Hall – Fridays 5pm. Only comfortable clothing & runners are needed. Pop in & watch or participate in a free trial lesson. We have a great mixed group of children. Some children don’t enjoy traditional team sports or battle in some way. Every child can be taught to fence. Adult Beginner Classes  starting on Tuesday evenings. Give us a call if you would like to try. Call Lee: 087 676 4183

West Wicklow Cancer Support Our group hosts a weekly Mindful soundbath Meditation with Gemma Deeney on Wednesdays at 11am in the Primary Care Centre Blessington. No cost, open to all. Do bring your own cushion, blanket & a friend. If your life has been impacted by cancer through a diagnosis, a family member, friend, or carer we are here for you. Call: 087 4346004 or westwicklow15@gmail.com

Mass intentions this week

Recently Deceased: Laticya Justayan (RD) Philippines

Saturday 6pm: Larry, Mary & Mathew Lennon (Birthday Rem), Michael & Mary Ann Norton (Rem), Agnes Twyford (A), Michelle Pender (A), Winnie Hayes (A), Rory Hayden (A), Kathleen Hayden (A)

Sunday 10am: Eileen Vines (A), Bridie Coughlin (A), Tony Kavanagh (A), Rita Jameson (A), Nelly Carroll (A), Jim Brophy (A)

We also Remember: Edith McEnerney, Nora Shirran, Billy Sargent, Elizabeth Coogan

Monday: Mass offered for the Sick & those in Hospital

Tuesday: Agnes Twyford (A), Sheila Melia (A), Fintan Gilheany (RD)

Wednesday: Elizabeth Coogan (A) Carolyn Cuffe (RD)

Thursday: Blessington Deceased Mass List

Friday: Francis Galvin (A), Cissie McEvoy (RD)

Saturday 19^th November: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken: 7.30pm Confessions: After 6pm Mass in Blessington

Sunday 20^th November: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 10.00am, Crosschapel: 11.30am.

Tuesday 22^nd November: Rosary & Holy Hour 10 to 11am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Burgage Cemetery Committee AGM Will take place on Monday 28^th November in the Coimin Centre, Blessington at 7.30pm. All Welcome

Bethany Bereavement Support offers a safe, free, confidential supportive listening service to those who are suffering loss. The organisation are seeking expressions of interest for their new training course which will be held early in 2023. If you or someone you know might be interested in training, please forward contact details & name of parish (with their permission) to Andrea Hayes 087 418 4292 or email mail@andreahayes.ie Places are limited. Further details following registration.

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. 17th November: 12, 13, 18, 25. €25 Winner: Caroline Daly. Next Jackpot is €2,050

In November We Remember – On our Parish Sacramental Website, we have a link to submit prayer requests for our relatives & friends who have died  www.blessingtonparishes.com Prayers offered during Evening Prayer

November List of the Dead. Envelopes are now available in all the Churches and can be returned to the Parish Office or in the collection boxes/bags during the month of November. Masses will be offered on the 1st Friday of every month throughout the year.

Christmas Shoe Box Appeal – Many thanks to everyone who helped in this appeal! We collected 74 Shoe Boxes filled with beautiful gifts to bring joy & excitement to the children who will receive them!

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

Make the most of your Smartphone. Join us at the Blessington. Further Education Centre for a 4-week course, 21^st November to 12^th December 1:30pm to 3:30pm. For more information, Call 045 851 494 or email: abeblessington@kwetb.ie

Social Dancing in Donard Saturday 19th November. Music by Thomas Maguire & Fhiona Ennis. Dancing 9pm to 12. Adm €10. Refreshments served.

Variety Concert  in aid of Blessington Men’s Shed, in the Tramway Theatre on Saturday 26^th Nov at 8pm. Music by the R.A.M.S. Tickets, €10 – available from any Shed Member & at the door on night of concert.

Blessington Car Boot Sale St. Kevin’s Hall on Sunday 27^th November: 7am to 4pm Tea/Coffee. Indoor & Outdoor Spaces. Free Parking. Toilets. Tables €10. Bargains Galore! Info: Pat Conlan: 086 075 2072

The Blessington History Society Exhibition on the Dublin & Blessington Steam Tram, the Exhibition will launch on Tuesday 22^nd November at 7pm in Blessington Library & will run until Saturday 26th November. The exhibition will include a power point presentation on the origins & history of DBST combined with a photographic exhibition of original documents & photos of the steam trams.

West Wicklow Cancer Support welcomes you to our November Drop-in Evening. The group will be creating a Christmas table craft hosted by Una of Cruthu Art. Come & Join us Thursday 24^th November, Coimin Centre Blessington at 7.30pm. This promise to be a fun & festive evening channelling our inner artist, with tea & mince pies for afters! No charge, spaces available, just come along in the evening. Contact us on 087 434 6004 with any enquiries.

Tús Job Opportunity in Blessington County Wicklow Partnership’s Tús Programme has a work placement opportunity in Blessington Educate Together National School Position available: Caretaker Gain valuable work experience while contributing to your community at the same time. The placement will be for 1 year & participants will be required to work for 19½ hours per week & are free to take up other employment outside of their 19½ hours. To qualify, you must be fully unemployed for 12 months. Tús payment is at the full rate of Jobseekers Allowance plus €22.50 top-up. For more information or to apply contact Neil Doyle on 087 640 9273 or ndoyle@wicklowpartnership.ie

Valleymount Parent & Baby/Toddler Playgroup meets every Thursday during school term from 10.15am to12 in Valleymount Hall. New parents welcome. Pop in for a cuppa & a chat.

Origins Foster Care are urgently looking for foster carers in the Blessington area.  www.originsfostercare.ie For Information call or text 087 052 9749 one of our team will get back to you

 “You Don’t Need Irish to Send Your Child to The Gaelscoil!” Gaelscoil na Lochanna is accepting places for the school year 2023-2024 from now up to 21^st December. Parents will be notified of places on 13^th January & will have to 27^th January to accept the place. There are 31 places available. Tá an fógra bliantiúl maidir le ligean isteach fógraithe anois ar www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com  mar aon le foirm iontrála. Spriocdháta dona hiarratais ná 21ú Nollaig agus cuirfear tuistí ar an eolas ar an 13ú Eanáir. Beidh ar thuistí/chaomhnóirí an áit a chinntiú roimh/ar an 27ú Eanáir 2023.Tá 31 spás sna Naíonáin ar fáil (más chuí). View the Annual Admissions Notice & access enrolment forms on the school website www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com “Gaelscoil na Lochanna will have an Open Night on  7^th December at 7:30pm  in the Gaelscoil for any parents interested  in joining the Gaelscoil”. Follow us on Instagram #gsnalochanna

Collection for the Capuchin Day Centre for the Homeless Saturday 19th November – Lakeshore Striders A.C annual charity collection for the Capuchin Day Centre for the Homeless will run for its 7^th year & will take place on Saturday 19^th November at the entrance foyer to SuperValu Blessington (back entrance at carpark) from 12pm to 3pm. Items in high demand by the centre include nappies, baby formula, baby food, toiletries (shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, razors, toothpaste, toothbrushes, etc), hats, socks, gloves, scarves as well as long life foods such as canned items. Please note: all items must be new & unopened & food must be in date.  Cash donations also accepted on the day.  For further information call Edel on 087 961 8337 or please email lakeshorestriders@gmail.com