Mass intentions this week: Josephine Murphy (RD) Blessington & Clonskeagh, Tom Tyrrell (RD) Blessington, Maurice O’Sullivan (RD) Blessington, Anthony (Tony) Swift (RD) Manor Kilbride, Eddie Miley (RD) Valleymount

Saturday 15th January 6pm: Alice Garry (A), Pat Garry (A), Tom & Sheila Ahern (A) Kit Brady (A), Jamie Mahon (A), Rose Hasting (A), Sean, John & Julia Carroll (A), Deceased Members of the Shirran Family

Sunday 16th January 10am: Joe Dunne (A), Tom & Susan Eustace (A), Jim, Betty & Michael McDonald (A)

We remember the following: Charles Hayes (Snr) (A), Charlie Hayes (RD)

Monday:  Mass for Blessington List of the Sick

Tuesday: Jamie Mahon (A), Austin Daly (RD)

Wednesday: Teresa Jones (RD), Lisa Browne (RD)

Thursday:  John Mahon (RD), Eamon Dunne (RD)

Friday: Tom Tyrrell (RD), Maurice O’Sullivan (RD)

►Saturday 15^th January Mass Times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken: 7.30pm

►Sunday 16^th January Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 11.15am Crosschapel: 11.30am,

►Tuesday 18^th January: Holy Hour and Adoration for the intentions of families from 7pm to 8pm. All welcome to join & spend some quiet time with the Lord. This can also be accessed via webcam: https://blessingtonparish.ie/about/parish-webcam/ 

Many thanks to all who visited the Annual Crib Exhibition in the Coimin Centre before Christmas. We would also like to thank all who made a donation. €415 was collected over the few days. It has been forwarded to the Sisters of Charity Homeless Shelter. It is hoped the Confirmation Candidates will visit the shelter during the coming year

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto.

Numbers drawn on 23rd December: 10, 19, 23, 27. €25 WINNER: Aileen Duffy

Numbers drawn on 30th December: 2, 5, 11, 25.  €25 WINNER: Geraldine McMulkin

Numbers drawn on 6th January:  11, 14, 20, 29. €25 WINNER: Fr Richard Behan

This week’s jackpot is €725. www.blessingtonparish.ie

 https://www.ourparishfundraiser.ie/parish/blessington

Good dry Kindling for sale in the Men’s Shed. For full details contact John Flynn:087 297 7678. All money raised goes to the upkeep of the Men’s Shed.

The Vintage Roadshow will be returning to the Coimín Centre on Monday 17^th January from 10.30am to 4pm. Join them & their expert team for incredible free valuations & top offers. Have a look around the house for all those things you’ve neglected, ignored or just want to convert into cash. The Vintage Roadshow gives you the opportunity to bring your items along to a live roadshow. They would love to see you on the day & help you turn unwanted items into cash – check out what you can bring along to be valued  https://thevintageroadshow.ie/

Rugby at Russborough for age groups U6, U7, U8, U9, U10, U11, U12, U13, boys & girls! Tuesday 7pm to 8pm and Sat 11am to 12:30pm. All Welcome to Blessington Mini-Rugby! join@blessingtonrugby.ie

MEDJUGORJE IRISH CENTRE PILGRIMAGES APRIL – OCT 2022: 7 Nights Apartment B&B and return Airport transfer from Dubrovnik or Split from €315 per person sharing. Guaranteed Airport transfer price for any flight. Contact us for details and book the dates that suit you. Call: 01 443 4510 or email reservations@med-irishcentre.com  Website: www.med-irishcentre.com

There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called yesterday, and the other is called tomorrow, so today is the right day to love, believe do & mostly live. Dalai Lama

Courses Starting at the Further Education & Training Centre Blessington. We are now recruiting for courses starting in January 2022. If you are interested in up-skilling or learning something new, we have the course for you! Full time courses in the following: Bookkeeping & Payroll Level 6. Back to Work Level 4. Part time courses in the following: Childcare Level 5 & 6 (2 evenings a week) Healthcare Level 5 (2 evenings a week)E Business Level 5 (2 mornings a week) Business with Tourism Level 5 (2 mornings a week) Office Skills Level 4 (2 mornings a week) Horticulture (2 mornings a week) For more information on any of the above please contact us  blessingtonfetc@kwetb.ie or 086 806 1569 or 086 850 3833

Seeking a childminder in our home for 3 boys aged 7, 11 and 12. Start time 2.30pm for 3 or 4 hours a day, 3 or 4 days a week. Must be able to drive and have own car. Please call 087 131 4098. Thank you.

Embankment Plastics Ltd – Vacancies. General Operators 15 – 18 hrs per week. Flexible hours. Permanent positions. Please email cv to HR@Embankment.ie  or call 045 858090

VACANCY: COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER ARCHDIOCESE OF DUBLIN. It is an exciting time in the Archdiocese, with a new Archbishop in post, many pastoral initiatives being undertaken, restructuring plans being developed, and hope-filled ministries and services being delivered every day of the year. We are looking for a Communications Officer to lead our internal communications within the Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin & external communication with the wider society. For more information, please visit: www.activelink.ie/node/87384 Closing date for applications 21^st January

Blessington Counselling & Psychotherapy. Here to support you with a range of challenging issues including: Stress, Anxiety, Depression – Loneliness, Isolation – Grief, Loss, Trauma – Relationship issues, family dynamics – Addiction, Substance misuse, Self-harm. Contact Mandy on ph:0851349813  www.BCPcounselling.ie

Paragon Bathrooms. Full Bathroom Renovations. Showroom Open, Main Street, Blessington. Call Aiden 085 137 8770

Wide arrange of Mobility Aids and Mobility Scooters available at Method Physio. We cater for all mobility needs and stock items from grab rails, raised toilet seats, walkers to bath lifts and shower stools. Visit our website www.methodphysiotherapy.ie  or if you can’t find what you are looking for or would like to book an appointment to view our Mobility Scooters contact us at the clinic on 045 857 444 or info@methodphysiotherapy.ie

Bathroom Upgrades, Plumbing & Heating, Showers,Roofing, Windows, & Doors. Internal & External Insulation. Call Paul 086 309 1829.

5 Week Online Personal Development Course – Tired of drifting through life or at a crossroads? Would you like to become more confident and feel more in control of your life? Enrol in our 5 Week Online Course commencing 9^th February from 1.00pm to 2:30 pm. For more information call Grainne 087  637 9765 or visit www.coachingforsuccess.ie Put this link into your browser: https://coachingforsuccess.ie/do-you-want-to-become-more-confident-and-more-assertive/ Limited Early Bird offers €99/Normal Price €125

Gardening –  For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Strimming, etc  Phone Mark 085 133 7714

NutriQuick is Expanding and is now looking for General Operatives to join their team: You will be working on a food production line and carrying out processing and packing duties as required.Previous experience in the food industry is an advantage but not essential. The rate of pay is €11.00 per hour. For further information please email nqhr@nutriquick.ie.  NutriQuick Ltd is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Blessington Roofing and Guttering. All Roof Repairs Slate Tiles Chimneys Guttering Fully Insured Free Quotations 24/7 Emergency call-out. 25 Year Guaranteed Roof Installation and Roof Repairs. Call Today for a free no-obligation quote. 087 379 4038 www.roofrepairsandguttering.ie

Blessington Parish 3^rd Annual CHRISTMAS CRIB EXHIBITION in the Coimín Centre Blessington on Saturday 18^th December from 12 Noon to after 6pm Mass. Sunday December 19th from after 10am to 5pm. Over 100 exhibits of  “Cribs from around the World” Some beautiful new additions to the display this year.

Mass intentions this week: Margaret Reilly (RD) Lacken

Saturday 6pm Mass: Mary & Tom Tivnan (A), Kitty & John Devoy (A), Thomas & Susan Eustace (A), Thomas & Ann Eustace (A), Jamie Mahon (A), Deceased Member of Smith Family

Sunday 10am: Shay & Sean Duffy (A), Denis & Ina O’Keefe (A), Denis O’Keefe Jnr (Rem), Paddy & Gertrude Donnolly (Rem) John O’Sullivan (A), William Ryan (A) Mary Ryan (A), Nora Ryan (A) James Ryan (A), Bridget Norton (A)

We remember the following: Patrick & Elizabeth Kelly, John & Helena Kelly, Eileen Kelly, Samuel, Edward, James, Ellen & Annie Kelly, John, Ann & Liam Craul, Deceased Members of Doyle Family, Patrick & Gretta Reidy, Ambie & Maisie Miley, Simon, Rebecca & Maisie Hopkins, Charles & Kathryn Doran, Tom, Martha & Lizzie Doran, Patricia Abraham Egan

Monday: Mass for Blessington List of the Sick

Tuesday: Nan Cullen (RD), Marian Fallon (RD)

Wednesday: Margaret Roche (A), Frank Reid (3^rd A)

Thursday: Mass offered for all on the Blessington Deceased Mass Card List

Friday: Living Intentions, Living Intentions

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT 19^th December 2021. Mary’s first journey after the annunciation was to visit her cousin, Elizabeth, who needed her help. Christmas brings the question to each of us, “who needs my help?’’

►Saturday 18^th December: 6pm Mass in Blessington. 7.30pm in Lacken.

►Sunday 19^th December: 10.00am Mass in Blessington, 11.00am Mass in Manor Kilbride, 11.30am Mass in Crosschapel, 11.15am Mass in Valleymount.

Advent Daily Reflections www.blessingtonparishes.com

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 16^th December 8, 14, 17, 21. CONGRATULATIONS JACKPOT WINNER of €1750 was Peggy Nash. Next week’s jackpot is €575. www.blessingtonparish.ie  https://www.ourparishfundraiser.ie/parish/blessington

2021 Private Members Draw In aid of Valleymount & Lacken Churches – December Winners: Anne Tipper, Nuala & Shay Kelly, Eileen Balfe, Frances & Billy Kavanagh, John Moriarty, Seamus Doyle, Rachel & Niall Jones, Edel Kelly, Paul Farrell, Teresa & Jaimie O’ Brien, Paddy Broe, Bernie Fitzpatrick, Sheila & Pat Geoghegan, Bridie & Tony Kavanagh, Phil O’ Reilly, Sheila Kinane, Liz & Paul Riley, Sadie & Seamus Miley, Ann & Jimmy Flynn, Deirdre Ryan, Carmel O’ Neill, Angela & John Richardson, Ruby Miley, Suzanne & Paul Sullivan, Bernie & Jimmy Reid, Joan & Sean Farrington, Mairead Graham, Catherine & Sean Miley, Mary & John Fisher, Mary & Seamus Kavanagh, Aoibheann & Teagan Reid, Aislinn & Liam Reid.

St. Mary’s Schools Parents Association are offering scenic Christmas cards with beautiful cover photos taken by two staff members of the Junior School. The cards are €6 for a pack of 10 cards, with 5 cards of each style Available now to purchase through the Parish Office, the Tourist Office and from both schools. Many thanks for your support.

Gaelscoil na Lochanna would like to thank all the many, many businesses in the town for supporting our Crannchur Nollag/Christmas Raffle. Your support will help us create a “Seomra Ciúin/ Quiet room” for children with anxiety & sensory needs. GO RAIBH MILE MAITH AGAIBH AGUS NOLLAIG SHONA. Gaelscoil na Lochanna will host talks in New Year on supporting children with educational needs (Dyslexia, Autism, ADHD, etc) @gsnalochanna, www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com

Good dry Kindling for sale in the Men’s Shed. For full details contact John Flynn:087 297 7678. All money raised goes to the upkeep of the Men’s Shed.

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!”

We are delighted to announce details of this year’s Christmas Fair. Blessington Tourist Office Christmas Fair 1^st to 23^rd December, Opening hours Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm, Saturday – Sunday 10am to 4pm. Loads of new stock all by Local Artists with 10% of everything sold going to Pieta. Ending Suicide. Beginning Hope. We will also be selling raffle tickets for wonderful prizes. Drop by from the 1^st of December & Support Pieta & Local Artists while also picking up some unique Christmas Gifts.

Rugby at Russborough for age groups U6, U7, U8, U9, U10, U11, U12, U13, boys & girls! Tuesday 7pm to 8pm and Sat 11am to 12:30pm. All Welcome to Blessington Mini-Rugby! join@blessingtonrugby.ie

Crosscare Food Services This Christmas we really need your help forhundreds of families who struggle to get nourishing food. We work with families to help them out of food poverty & crisis situations. We help with budgeting, healthy eating, housing & welfare to support families in the long term. We provide urgent support through our Foodbanks & Community Cafés. This year, as we cannot hold our parish food appeal, we are asking for your financial support to help ushelp them.Please donate if you can at www.crosscare.ie or Call 01 836 0011

Blessington <LIGHTS UP> Christmas 2021. FREE RAFFLE FOR CHRISTMAS HAMPERS. Blessington and District Forum is holding a Raffle with one draw entry for every GoFundMe donation of €5 or more. Prizes donated so far include: Two large hampers worth €80 each – Some smaller hampers – Other prizes – More prizes added if donated by businesses or individuals in time for the draw. The draw is on Tuesday 21^st December, from among all GoFundMe donations received by 3pm that day. Anonymous donors will be included in the raffle. The B+D Forum’s GoFundMe appeal can be found at https://tinyurl.com/vr877rza & will continue for some time into the New Year. See B+D Forum’s Facebook page

The Community Pool for West Wicklow would like to say a very big THANK YOU to everyone who took part in our Outdoor Christmas Market at Russborough House & Park. Thanks to all who visited the market, our stall holders, Blessington Community Choir, Swim Ireland, Wicklow Co Co, Russborough House & Love Food Catering, all our volunteers, sponsors & those working behind the scenes. Merry Christmas & Happy New Year.

Wrap gifts using recycled paper, old ribbon & bows. Re-use old Christmas cards to make gift tags, handmade cards.

Plan menus & make a list of food needed to avoid food waste. Use leftover food creatively

Lacken National School is looking for a Bus Escort 5 days a week, 2 hours 20 min per day. Please send your application to school@lackenns.com  by 13^th December.

Due to continued growth, Manor Homecare is recruiting for Health Care Assistants. We are looking for compassionate, kind and caring individuals who will assist our clients to remain independent in their own homes. Positions available in Blessington, Naas, Kill, Straffan & Tallaght. What we offer:    Flexible hours of work, Career progression. Home Carer Bonus throughout the year. Paid Holidays (Double pay on Bank Holidays) Paid induction & Mandatory training. Free QQI training. Refer a friend bonus of €250. We provide free Personal Protection Equipment. 24-hour emergency support and advice from managers. Be part of an established healthcare team. Free Moving & Handling Training & Safeguarding Training. What we require: 1 Year professional or family experience. A minimum of 2 QQI modules (or be willing to work towards them). Have an excellent command of the English language, both verbal & written. Be kind, reliable, patient, punctual & caring. Provide care to a high standard. Have excellent communication skills and willingness to learn. Salary: €15,000-€25,000 per annum. All applications will be treated with strictest confidentiality. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview.

Embankment Plastics Ltd – Vacancies. General Operators 15 – 18 hrs per week. Flexible hours. Permanent positions. Please email cv to HR@Embankment.ie  or call 045 858090

NutriQuick is Expanding and is now looking for General Operatives to join their team: You will be working on a food production line and carrying out processing and packing duties as required.Previous experience in the food industry is an advantage but not essential. The rate of pay is €11.00 per hour. For further information please email nqhr@nutriquick.ie.  NutriQuick Ltd is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Blessington Roofing and Guttering. All Roof Repairs Slate Tiles Chimneys Guttering Fully Insured Free Quotations 24/7 Emergency call-out. 25 Year Guaranteed Roof Installation and Roof Repairs. Call Today for a free no-obligation quote. 087 379 4038 www.roofrepairsandguttering.ie

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT 5^th December 2021. The message of repentance during this season of Advent is a call to each one of us to look deeply into our lives, to renew and deepen our relationship with God & our fellow sisters & brothers.

Mass intentions this week: Marion Fallon (RD) Manor Kilbride, Stephen Masterson (RD) Manor Kilbride

Saturday 6pm Mass: Eamon Tully (Month’s Mind), Ellie & James Hanlon (A), Carmel Costelloe (A)

Sunday 10am: Christopher Enright (Months Mind), Chrissy & Noel Cummins (A), Tom & Ellen Cummins(A), Maisie O’Reilly (A),Jim & Kathleen Hamilton (A)

We remember the following:

Monday: Mass for Blessington List of the Sick

Tuesday: Mary McCarthy (A), Kathleen Ramsey (RD)

Wednesday 8^th December: HOLY DAY 10am: Brian O’Reilly (RD) Siobhan McStay (RD) 8pm: Deceased Members of Blessington GAA

Thursday: Mary Conway (RD), Des Higgins (RD)

Friday: Teresa O’Gorman (RD Co Clare, Fr Michael Sheedy (RD)

►Saturday 4^th December: 6pm Mass in Blessington, 7.30pm in Lacken.

►Sunday 5^th December: 10.00am Mass in Blessington, 11.00am Mass in Manor Kilbride, 11.30am Mass in Crosschapel, 11.15am Mass in Valleymount.

►Tuesday 7^th December: Holy Hour & Rosary offered for the intentions of our families from 7pm to 8pm in, Blessington. This is the final one before Christmas and will resume on Tuesday 13^th January

►Wed 8^th December: Holy Day Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

Holy Day Mass Times:

11.00am Manor Kilbride

11.30am Crosschapel

10.00am Blessington

11.15am Valleymount

8.00pm Blessington

2021 Private Members Draw in aid of Valleymount & Lacken Churches October Peter Kelly, May Nolan, Caroline & Mick Maguire, Peg Geoghegan, Edel Kelly November Teresa & John Reid, Nicola & Steven Byrne, Jenny & Glen Cullen, Mags & Mattie Browne.The final Private Members Draw will be held before Christmas.

Society of St. Vincent de Paul Annual Church Collection will be held on Sat 10^th & Sun 11^th December to raise funds for those who are struggling to manage this Christmas.

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 2nd Dcember 3, 9,15, 29. Winner of €25 was Siobhan Cullen. Next week’s jackpot is €1700. www.blessingtonparish.ie https://www.ourparishfundraiser.ie/parish/blessington

Crosscare Food Services This Christmas we really need your help forhundreds of families who struggle to get nourishing food. We work with families to help them out of food poverty & crisis situations. We help with budgeting, healthy eating, housing & welfare to support families in the long term. We provide urgent support through our Foodbanks & Community Cafés. This year, as we cannot hold our parish food appeal,we are asking for your financial support to help ushelp them.Please donate if you can at www.crosscare.ie or Call 01 836 0011

The Community Pool for West Wicklow are delighted to return to Russborough House & Park with our Outdoor Christmas Market from 12pm to 4pm on Saturday December 11^thWe will have over 30 stalls from local artists, crafters & artisans located in the Hippodrome & East Courtyard selling everything from handmade soaps & Christmas Stockings to hand painted bonbons! It’s the ideal place to find that perfect gift for your loved ones this Christmas. Our friends from Swim Ireland will be joining us this year too so make sure to give them a warm West Wicklow Welcome! Grab some lunch from the Love Food Catering hanging BBQ, pick up your Christmas Tree from the Blessington Lakes Garden Centre Stall & enjoy some Christmas Classics performed by the Blessington Community Choir! Don’t forget to visit Santa in the Hippodrome. Please note that this is a cash only event & there are no ATM facilities on site. Admission to the Outdoor Christmas Market is free but all donations are welcome to support our campaign for a pool for West Wicklow.This is an outdoor event so we advise all guests to dress appropriately for the weather & request that all Covid 19 guidelines are adhered to. There is a charge of €3 to park at Russborough House & Park. We hope to see you all there!

St. Mary’s Schools Parents Association are offering scenic Christmas cards with beautiful cover photos taken by two staff members of the Junior School. The cards are €6 for a pack of 10 cards, with 5 cards of each style. Available now to purchase through the Parish Office, the Tourist Office and from both schools. Many thanks for your support.

Congratulations Lacken Tidy Village Group for being awarded a certificate of recognition for their work on “Clean Up the Uplands” initiative in the Pure Mile. The group regularly organise litter picks and clean ups over 17k in the village & neighbouring townlands.

Advent Daily Reflections, Prayers & Advent Calendars www.blessingtonparishes.com

New weekly events running in Blessington Library. Spaces are limited so please book to avoid disappointment. TUMMY TIME: Thursdays – 11.30am. For babies who haven’t started to crawl yet. Babies can play beneath the beautiful light projections of Tovertafel. TODDLER TIME: Fridays – 11.30am Song, movement and rhymes for toddlers. Suitable for children aged 1 – 3-year-olds. CHILDREN’S STORY-TIME: Sat 11.30am. Join us for some tall tales and fun stories. Suitable for children aged 3 – 6-year-olds

Parent & Toddler Group Tuesday & Wednesday – 10am to 12 noon in St Kevin’s Community Centre, Blessington. Covid Cert Required.

We are delighted to announce details of this year’s Christmas Fair. Blessington Tourist Office Christmas Fair 1^st to 23^rd December, Opening hours Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm, Saturday – Sunday 10am to 4pm. Loads of new stock all by Local Artists with 10% of everything sold going to Pieta. Ending Suicide. Beginning Hope. We will also be selling raffle tickets for wonderful prizes. Drop by from the 1^st of December & Support Pieta & Local Artists while also picking up some unique Christmas Gifts.

Due to the increase in Covid Cases Blessington Youth Theatre have taken the decision to record our Show: The Magic of Musicals. It is with a heavy heart that we made this decision but feel it is the best decision for the safety of our members, leaders & the community. Therefore, we are offering a refund on tickets previously purchased for our amazing show which was planned for March 2020. If you decide to avail of the refund please text with your name, contact details & the number of tickets to the BYT phone: 087 465 0835. We are planning to stream the recording of ‘The Magic of Musicals ‘to your sitting rooms during December!! Watch out for dates & link to be announced very soon. This promises to be a great show, that will lift your spirits, & giving our dedicated members the chance to showcase their talent. Thanking you, BYT Committee

The Committee & Members Blessington Men’s Shed would like to thank, most sincerely, the management & staff of Aldi in Blessington for their most generous donation of €500 to Blessington Men’s Shed. We are most grateful for this donation.

Rugby at Russborough for age groups U6, U7, U8, U9, U10, U11, U12, U13, boys & girls! Tuesday 7pm to 8pm and Sat 11am to 12:30pm. All Welcome to Blessington Mini-Rugby! join@blessingtonrugby.ie

Lacken National School is looking for a Bus Escort 5 days a week, 2 hours 20 min per day. Please send your application to school@lackenns.com  by 13^th December.

BLESSINGTON LAKES GARDEN CENTRE – Christmas Trees now in Sizes from 2ft to 14ft all non-shed. Living Christmas Trees in Pots. Open every day 9am to 5pm – 045 865 403 or 087 931 9111

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

NutriQuick is Expanding and is now looking for General Operatives to join their team: You will be working on a food production line and carrying out processing and packing duties as required.Previous experience in the food industry is an advantage but not essential. The rate of pay is €11.00 per hour. For further information please email nqhr@nutriquick.ie.  NutriQuick Ltd is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Mass intentions this week:

Robert (Bob) Snr. Cullen (RD) Manor Kilbride, Jimmy Neary (RD) USA

Saturday 6pm Mass: Helen Dardis (A), Deceased Members of the Dardis Family, Nelly Carroll (A), Larry Lennon (Birthday Rem), Mary & Matthew Lennon (A), Mary Norton (A), Rita Jameson (A)

Sunday 10am: Michael Quigley (1^st A), Bridie Coughlan (A), Jim Crampton (30^th A)

We remember the following: Elizabeth Coogan, Winnie Hayes, Michelle Pender, Winnie Hayes, Billy Sargent, Nora Shirran, Patrick Mullaly, Agnes Twyford.

Monday: Mass for Blessington List of the Sick

Tuesday: Elizabeth Coogan (2^nd A), Rita Hamilton (RD)

Wednesday: Patrick Nolan (RD), Christy Miley (RD)

Thursday: Sharon O’Brien (Birthday Rem), Birthday Mass Intentions, Robert O’Hara (A)

Friday: Mass for all on the Blessington Deceased Mass Card List

►Saturday 20^th November: 6pm Mass in Blessington, 7.30pm in Lacken.

►Sunday 21^st November: 10.00am Mass in Blessington, 11.00am Mass in Manor Kilbride, 11.30am Mass in Crosschapel, 11.15am Mass in Valleymount.

►Tuesday 23^rd November: Holy Hour & Rosary offered for the intentions of our families from 7pm to 8pm in, Blessington

November Monthly Envelopes can be dropped into the Parish Office, Post Box in Church or to the collection boxes at Mass. Many thanks to all contributors for your continued support.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul continues to support those seeking assistance. Many families helped, are faced with daily impossible choices, but at this time of year these impossible choices get harder; to put oil in the tank or for those essential Christmas gifts. This year, more than ever, your help is needed to make sure that children & families have what they need to share in the magic of the season. The Annual Church Collection will be held on Sunday 11th December, to raise funds for those who are struggling to manage this Christmas.

November List of the Dead. Envelopes available in the Church. Masses offered on the 1st Friday of every month throughout the year.

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto.  Numbers on 11^th Nov 5, 17, 21, 26: Weekly winner of €25 was John Paul Moran. Next week’s jackpot is €1525 www.blessingtonparish.ie https://www.ourparishfundraiser.ie/parish/blessington

Congratulations to Blessington Senior Football team beginning their Leinster Campaign on Sunday, 21st November @1pm in Glennon Brothers Pearse Park, Longford

The Annual Senior Citizens Draw which is held in Hennessy’s Public House is unfortunately being cancelled again this year due to the high Covid cases. We would like to wish all our supporters & sponsors a very happy & safe Christmas & New Year.  We will see you all in 2022. Tom, John, Barry, Tara Karen, Edel, Lilly, Bernadette and Geraldine.

COMMUNITY POOL FOR WEST WICKLOW are delighted to be returning to Russborough House & Park with our Outdoor Christmas Market  from 12pm to 4pm on December 11^th. With over 30 stalls from local artists, crafters & artisans located in the Hippodrome & East Courtyard you are sure to find the perfect gift for your loved ones this Christmas. Pick up some festive treats to enjoy in the wonderful surroundings of Russborough House and Park or bring them home with you to share later. A trip to our Outdoor Christmas Market would not be complete without visiting Santa in the Hippodrome! Tickets for Santa can be purchased on the day and will be €5 per child. Children will receive a selection box from Santa and all proceeds will go towards our campaign for a pool for West Wicklow! Please note that this is a cash only event and there are no ATM facilities on site. This is an outdoor event so we advise all guests to dress appropriately for the weather & request that all Covid 19 guidelines are adhered to. We hope to see you all there!

Due to the worsening situation with Covid 19, the organisers of the Donard Glen Community Talent Show have decided to postpone the event until the spring.

Collection for the Capuchin Day Centre for the Homeless Saturday 27th November – Lakeshore Striders A.C. Annual Charity Collection for the Capuchin Day Centre for the Homeless will run for its sixth year and take place on Saturday the 27th of November at the back entrance to Super Valu, Blessington from 12pm to 3pm. Items requested by the centre include toiletries: shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, razors, toothpaste, tooth brushes, etc, nappies, baby wipes, baby food and formula, hats, socks, gloves, scarves as well as canned foods such as beans, peas, fruit etc. Please note all items must be new & unopened.  Cash donations also accepted on the day.  For further information please email lakeshorestriders@gmail.com  or call Edel on 087 961 8337

 “West Wicklow Cancer Support” Weekly Mediation with Gemma Deeney continues on Wednesdays at 11.15am in the Primary Care Centre Blessington. Call: 087 4346004 or email: westwicklow15@gmail.com to book a place as numbers are restricted. All Covid health & Safety measures are in place. Do bring your own blanket & pillow. “The best cure for the body is a quiet mind”

Santa Returns as Blessington <<LIGHTS UP>> Christmas 2021. Despite the challenges of the past nearly-two years, Blessington & District Forum continues to provide festive cheer in Blessington with the town’s regular Christmas Lights & Tree.nThis year’s great news is that Santa will be arriving on Saturday 27^th  November  at 12:30pm in the Square, Blessington to meet all the boys & girls and he will turn on the lights at 5.30pm. As the Forum’s usual fundraising was hit by COVID-19, we are looking for donations to keep the lights twinkling in Blessington over Christmas. As always, our Blessington Lights Up Christmas (BLUC) Committee is hard at work, but it is a huge task & every donation counts. Last year’s €3,965 GoFundMe total was the main source of Blessington’s lighting up funds for 2020. The Forum & BLUC hope do as well or better with this year’s GoFundMe project, which can be found at https://tinyurl.com/vr877rza See our Facebook page for updates

New weekly events running in Blessington Library. Spaces are limited so please book to avoid disappointment. TUMMY TIME: Thursdays – 11.30am. For babies who haven’t started to crawl yet. Babies can play beneath the beautiful light projections of Tovertafel. TODDLER TIME: Fridays – 11.30am Song, movement and rhymes for toddlers. Suitable for children aged 1 – 3-year-olds.nCHILDREN’S STORY-TIME: Sat 11.30am. Join us for some tall tales and fun stories. Suitable for children aged 3 – 6-year-olds

St Brigid’s N.S. Manor Kilbride is now accepting enrolments for the next school year, 2022 – 2023. To enrol your child, please call Charlotte in our school office on, 01 458 2550 or find the enrolment documents on our school website http://manorkilbridens.scoilnet.ie/blog/ We hope to hold our Open Evening in February, which will give prospective parents & parents of children already attending, a chance to have a look around our lovely school.

TRÓCAIRE SPECIAL APPEAL FOR EAST AFRICA 6th & 7th NOVEMBER – The Bishops of Ireland have called for a National Church Collection on 6th & 7th November to support Trócaire in providing life-saving aid to vulnerable communities in East Africa & DRC, where millions of people are being pushed to the edge of starvation. Trócaire teams are already responding on the ground & are ready to provide life-saving assistance but need more resources. Any support the Parish can give to this Emergency Appeal will help the urgent work of Trócaire & their hardworking local partners. For more information see www.trocaire.org This collection will replace the share collection.

Mass intentions this week: Rita Hamilton (RD) Blessington, Mary Plunkett (RD) Leitrim

Saturday 6pm Mass: Frankie Keogh (2^nd A), Paul Garry (A)

Sunday 10am: Josephine Flynn (RD), Carol O’Riordan (A)

We remember the following: Deceased Members of the Clarke & Nixon Families, Michael Byrne, Richard Reid, Charles & Catherine Reid

Monday: Mass for Blessington List of the Sick,

Tuesday: Birthday Mass, Birthday Mass

Wednesday: Christy Miley (RD), Patrick Nolan (RD)

Thursday: Eamon Tully (RD), Rita Hamilton (RD)

Friday: Kathleen, Jim & Seamus Corry, John Galvin (A)

Message from Archbishop Dermot Farrell – The Covid-19 pandemic has been a particularly difficult time for those who have lost loved ones and have often had to cope with their grief without many of the usual spiritual and community supports.To pastorally support everyone who has suffered the pain of bereavement during the pandemic, and in the context of the month of November as the traditional time when we remember our dead, on next Sunday, 14 November at 3.00pm, the Bishops of Ireland will undertake a pilgrimage to the International Eucharistic and Marian Shrine in Knock. The bishops will concelebrate Mass for all those who have died in our country during the pandemic, and for their families. At the Mass the bishops will also offer prayers of thanksgiving for all those who so selflessly sacrificed so much during the pandemic.  This Mass will be live-streamed on knockshrine.ie  and broadcast on the RTÉ News Now digital television channel and online.  The bishops invite everyone to join with them in prayer on this solemn occasion.

►Saturday 6^th November: 6pm Mass in Blessington, November Mass of Remembrance 7.30pm in Lacken. Remembering all who died during 2020 and 2021

►Sunday 7^th November: 10.00am Mass in Blessington, 11.00am Mass in Manor Kilbride, 11.30am Mass in Crosschapel. November Mass of Remembrance 11.15am Mass in Valleymount. Remembering all who died during 2020 and 2021

►Tuesday 9^th November: Holy Hour & Rosary offered for the intentions of our families from 7pm to 8pm in, Blessington

Valleymount Country Market Sunday 7^th November from 10am to 3pm in Valleymount Community Hall

November List of the Dead. Envelopes available in all the Churches. Masses offered on the 1st Friday of every month throughout the year.

St Brigid’s N.S. Manor Kilbride is now accepting enrolments for the next school year, 2022 – 2023. To enrol your child, please call Charlotte in our school office on, 01 458 2550 or find the enrolment documents on our school website http://manorkilbridens.scoilnet.ie/blog/ We hope to hold our Open Evening in February, which will give prospective parents & parents of children already attending, a chance to have a look around our lovely school.

Lacken National School is looking for qualified SNAs to substitute in Lacken School. Please send you application to school@lackenns.com  by 15^th November

Lacken & Valleymount – November Mass of Remembrance: Saturday 7^th November at 7.30pm in Lacken Church on Sunday 8^th November at 11.15am in Valleymount Church. During this Mass we will remember all our loved ones who have died during 2020 and 2021

IS ALCOHOL CAUSING PROBLEMS FOR YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW? Do you want to stop drinking? Is there an alcoholic in your life? Blessington Alcoholics Anonymous Group is hosting an OPEN PUBLIC MEETING in St Joseph’s Hall, Main St. Blessington on Monday 8^th Nov at 8pm. The purpose of this meeting is to reach the still suffering alcoholic through a third party, family & friends by letting them know that AA exists, where it can be found & what it can offer. With speakers from Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon. Refreshments served. All welcome.

Blessington Educate Together are now accepting enrolments for the next school year 2022-2023.  Enrolment forms can be downloaded from our website www.betns.ie or contact the school office on 045 865 281 or email office@betns.ie

Gaelscoil na Lochanna is now accepting places for the 2022-2023 the school year. You don’t need Irish to send your child to the Gaelscoil! Tá an FÓGRA BLIANTIÚL MAIDIR LE LIGEAN ISTEACH fógraithe anois ar www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com mar aon le foirm iontrála agus eolas faoi Oíche Oscailte Fhíorúil. (3ú Samhain, 7:30) Spriocdháta dona hiarratais ná 24ú Samhain agus cuirfear tuistí ar an eolas ar an 1ú Nollaig. Beidh ar thuistí/chaomhnóirí an áit a chinntiú roimh/ar an 21ú Eanáir 2022. Tá 60 spás sna Naíonáin ar fáil (más chuí). The ANNUAL ADMISSIONS NOTICE.with enrolment forms is now available to view on the school website www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com. Applications for spaces are due before/on the 24th November 2021 & parents will be notified on the 1^st December. Parents/Guardians will then need to confirm their acceptance of the place on/ before 21st January 2022.There are 60 spaces available in Junior Infants.

Lacken National School are now accepting enrolment applications for the 2022/2023 school year. Please email school@lackenns.com  or contact the school office on 045 865086.

Donard Glen Community Talent Show – For One Night Only!! Don’t Miss it!! Saturday 20th November. All Proceeds in aid of Donard Community Hall & Baltinglass Hospital. Tickets €5 at the door. For more details call Edward 087 877 7580

Rugby at Russborough for age groups U6, U7, U8, U9, U10, U11, U12, U13, boys & girls! Tuesday 7pm to 8pm & Saturday 11am to 12:30. All Welcome to Blessington Mini-Rugby! blessingtonrugb@gmail.com

Vales Around Cloughlea Festival 2021:  GUIDED NATURE WALK: through Ballyward Forest Sat 6^th Nov at 11am. For details contact Aidan 086 3958207.  CONCERT Manor Kilbride Community Hall,  Saturday 6th November at 7.30pm, Dónal Lunny, Paddy Glackin & Phil Callery. Pre-booking for the above events essential. Contact Maria 087 9656257 or e-mail oldkilbride@gmail.com  ART & CRAFT EXHIBITION:  Sunday 7^th November 12noon – 4pm. Manor Kilbride Community Hall: Music: Kilbride & Lakeside Young Musicians. All welcome to drop by. Organised by Kilbride & Lakeside Music Committee & Glen Heste Pure Mile Group. Supported by Wicklow Co. Council Arts Dept

West Wicklow Chamber Music Festival ‘Winter Weekend’ The West Wicklow Chamber Music Festival‘s inaugural “Winter Weekend”, will take place from 12^th to 14^th November at Russborough. Tickets & further information from www.westwicklowfestival.com

Community Pool for West Wicklow are delighted to announce the return of our Christmas Market to Russborough House & Park this December! The Christmas Market will take place on Saturday December 11^th and will feature live music; face painting & of course, Santa will be there too. If you are a local business, artist or crafter & would like to take part please contact us by email at poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com

REMEMBERING – All welcome to join us at the Pro-Cathedral on Sunday lunchtimes in November for Remembering. The choirs associated with the Pro-Cathedral present a series of four Sunday lunchtime performances singing a varied and wide-range of choral music. At each performance, we will remember those lost during the Covid period in a special way. November 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th all at 1.15pm Admission is free.

Blessington FC is delighted to see the rapid growth in Girls Soccer. We now have 3 all girls teams that train weekly & play in the DDSL & MGL leagues. We have spaces in our Soccer Academy for Girls born 2014, 2015 & 2016. Our Academy runs on Saturday afternoons @3pm in the GAA Astro pitches. If you’re interested in signing your girls up you can contact our Academy Director Tony by email to academy@blessingtonfc.com

Lacken-Kilbride GAA Night @ The Races. Our annual race night is back! Are you feeling lucky….? Saturday 13^th November from 9.30pm in Zeller’s Pub ~ Lacken. Buy your horse for €20 (buy as many as you like!!) today online or in person from any committee member. For any businesses or high wealth individuals! You can sponsor a race or advertise your business in the Race Night booklet. Just €50 for a Half Page Advert, €100 for a Full Page Advert or €100 to sponsor one of ten races. Prizes to be won: Horse Winner Prize: €50, 2nd Place Horse: €30. You don’t have to in Zellers on the night, buy a horse in advance and you’re in the mix! All proceeds from this race night will be used to help develop our new Club pitch in Kilbride which will officially open to games in March/April 2022 to develop our underage academy, our male & female playing teams as well as our community walking track. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT AND GOOD LUCK! Contact: lackenkilbridegaaclub@gmail.com 086 311 3443 with any queries.

Anam Cara South Dublin supporting bereaved parents, is holding its monthly Parent Evening for bereaved parents on Mon 8th Nov at 7:20pm in the Maldron Hotel, Tallaght. This event is free & open to all bereaved parents regardless of the age your child died, the circumstances of their death, or if their death was recent or not.

A family of three is looking for a house/ apartment to rent in Blessington area a.s.a.p. Please call 086 864 8033. Thank You!