FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME  7^th February 2021

Jesus is the healer who gives hope to his people.

Mass Intentions next Week

Margaret Lennon (RD) Ballinastockan, Marcel de Mulder (RD) UK, Joe McManus (RD) Lurgan, James D’Arcy (RD) Blessington

Saturday 6pm: Ann Kavanagh (A) Maree McEvoy (A) Phyllis Farrell (A) Bill Brady (A)

Sunday 10am: Ann O’Byrne (A) Bridget & John Tipper (A) Tom Tipper (A)

Sunday 11.30am:John O’Hara (A) Ann Byrne (A) Molly Haughton (A)

We also remember: Edward Boylan, Conor Curran, Bridget O’Connell, Sean & Elizabeth O’Donnell, Sidney & Maureen Hambly, Francis Hunt, Joe Treacy, Bridie & Owen Naughton, Bridie & John Keogh John Keogh (Knockieran)

Monday: Mass offered for all the Blessington List of the Sick

Tuesday: Margaret Lennon (RD) Barbara Smith (A) Jerry Carey (A)

Wednesday: Michael Eustace (RD) Anna Bergin (A)

Thursday: Sean O’Flaherty (RD) Fr Jimmy Peters(RD)

Friday: Special Living Intentions, Special Living Intentions, Special Living Intentions

Accord Dublin’s Annual Collection will take place next weekend 13^th & 14^th  February. Donation Envelopes will be available in the Church or donate online at  www.accorddublin.ie

All Masses & Services via Webcam www.blessingtonparish.ie  Daily Mass at 9.30am, Monday to Friday please join us in prayer for The Rosary at 9am

Saturday 6^th February Mass at 6pm

Sunday 7^th February Mass at 10am and 11.30am

Evening Prayer Join the parish team on Mon, Wed and Fri for evening prayer via zoom 7:30pm to 8:10pm  www.blessingtonparishes.com

Children’s Prayers Every Thursday at 11am we have prayers for children from Church of Our Lady Blessington. All children & families are invited to join via webcam www.blessingtonparish.ie We will focus on Our Lady of Lourdes on 11^th February & Lent on 18^th February.

The Church is open from 10am on Monday to Saturday and after 11.30am Mass on Sundays for quiet prayer or to light a candle. There is a Collection Point at the back of the Church to collect Mass Cards ordered by phone or by email 045 865 327  office@blessington.info

LENT 2021 “Our Hope Renewed” It is time to renew our hope! For we are a Community of Faith, Hope & Love. This Lent let’s take the opportunity to connect with God and each other. We may be confused by Zoom and Social Media… but God is not… let’s do what we can whilst keeping everyone safe. We are in this together. Full Information on Lenten initiatives throughout the Diocese are available on www.evangelisation.ie  all in the ‘Living Lent’ section……….  Book Club (‘Return to Me with all Your Heart’), Guided Meditation, Scripture, Lenten Talks, Evening Prayer, Whatsup for Lent, (Daily Ponder Point), LOL (Lent-On-Line) Personal Reflections, There is something for everyone to take part in this Lent – for Teens, Young Adults and Families

Let’s Live Lent: Bringing The Gospel To Life. Five Pastoral Conversations on Zoom.  Presented by a team from the Office for Evangelisation and the Diocesan Liturgical Resource Centre. Tuesdays 16^th Feb, 23^rd Feb, 2^nd Mar, 9^th Mar and 16^th Mar 2021 at 8.00 p.m. Full details including booking information shortly.

Homily of Bishop Dermot Farrell at Mass of Thanksgiving on the Occasion of his Installation as Archbishop of Dublin is available to read from the link below or on the Archdiocese Website: www.dublindiocese.ie –  https://www.dublindiocese.ie/installation-of-dermot-farrell-as-archbishop-of-dublin/

Do you have a small piece of land in or around Blessington? We are a community group looking to start allotments in the area. Please contact us at blessingtonallotments@gmail.com or 0862371290

Fr Kevin’s Homilies are always available on our website: https://blessingtonparish.ie/homilies-year-b/

COVID-19 Support Line for Older People. ALONE manage a national support line and additional supports for older people who have concerns or are facing difficulties relating to COVID-19 Professional staff are available to answer queries and give advice and reassurance where necessary. The support line is open  7 days a week, 8am – 8pm, by calling 0818 222 024. Calls to the ALONE National Support Line cost no more than a local call to a landline. Calls from Vodafone or landline bundles, PAYG bundles, and mobile contracts are free.

Lacken National School are now accepting enrolments for Mainstream and Early Intervention classes for September 2021. School bus runs daily from/to Blessington. The school offers afterschool care for Junior and Senior Infants until 2.30pm. Lacken School also has a pre-school facility which is ECCE and NCS approved. Enrolment forms can be downloaded from www.lackenns.com or please contact the school office on 045 865086 or lackenschool@eircom.net

Financial Support for our Parish is very important at this time and we are most grateful for your contributions. You can make donations to support all our Churches via the DONATE BUTTON on the Blessington parish website(options available for all our Churches.) All SHRINE MONEY remains in the parish. Donations through the black PDF BOXES in Blessington Church also go towards the running of the parish. We are very grateful for your ongoing support. Support for our Diocese through the1st & 2nd collections may also be made via the DONATE BUTTON on our website, the 1st collection goes to towards the support of the parish. The 2nd collection goes to the Diocese. There are also envelopes available in all Churches for these donations.

Good Dry Kindling for Sale at Blessington Men’s Shed €3 for 1 Bag, €10 for 3 Bags. For collection information phone John Flynn at 087 297 7678. All money raised for upkeep of Shed during these difficult times.”

While the Parish Office is  Closed to the Public. We are available by telephone or email  for Mass Bookings, Mass Cards, & General Enquiries Monday to Friday. Email: office@blessington.info Carol: 045 865 327 from 9am to 1pm. Jean: 087 2350835 from 9am to 5pm

St Vincent de Paul local number 087 181 1579

• NEWSLETTER ADS

NEED TO TALK? Blessington Counselling & Psychotherapy Offer you  a friendly & confidential service Call Mandy 0851349814  www.BCPcounselling.ie

BLESSINGTON LAKES GARDEN CENTRE – Veg & Flower Seeds. Seed Potatoes, Onions & Garlic, Wild Bird Food, Bare Root Hedging, Trees, & Fruit. Call 045 865 403 or 087 931 9111

Furniture For Sale – 3 piece Leather Suite. Solid Pine Kitchen Table and 6 chairs 150x90cm. Both items in excellent condition. Phone 086 160 9293

Looking to upskill, learn a new skill, unsure of what course to do? Here at Blessington Further Education Centre we offer free, confidential career guidance to help you. For more information, please email blessingtonfetc@kwetb.ie or contact Irene on 086 806 1569

Just Got Engaged ? Elegant & Stylish Wedding photography. €1250 for full digital package + free Engagement photo session. Ring Jim on 087 679 9008. Instagram jimschofieldphotography

Career Guidance Service for students and parents with experienced qualified guidance counsellor, individual attention. Phone Gary: 086 857 4262

Gardening – For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Fruit Tree pruning, Painting etc Phone Mark 085 133 7714

GasHome – Boiler Servicing and Repairs – RGI Registered. Phone Stephen 087 9060 894

Blessington Airport Taxi – 087 255 7993 Standard Taxi €77 one way. Large 7-Seater €87 one way. Call Richard on 087 255 7993 Or email: richardmc.keever@yahoo.ie

Paying too much to SKY or UPC? We install & Repair Free to Air and Saorview!! No more bills!! Call Billy: 086 868 0053

Active Appliance Repairs over 20 years’ experience repairing and servicing all brands of domestic and commercial appliances. For a fast, friendly and efficient service call us today on 086 393 7762 or 086 361 9082. Call out Charge €75  www.activeappliancerepairs.ie

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

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

THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 24th January 2021 (Sunday of the Word of God) The calling of Jesus is a calling to a generous and wholehearted following of his gospel.

Jesus’ Story Jesus wanted to tell people new ways to be happy. He asked Peter and Andrew to help him. They were fishermen. They will catch people now with God’s message, telling everyone that God is Our Loving Father, giver of all blessings, knows each person by name, loves everyone, can never be angry, and always coaxes us to love, care and help each other.

Mass Intentions next Week

Bernard Murphy (RD) Mayo, Sianna Koegh (RD) Canada, Rosaleen Murphy (RD) Finglas

Saturday 6pm: Peter Fennell (1^st A) James & Imelda Plummer (A) Robert Hennessy (Birthday Rem)

Sunday 10am: Peggy Howlin (A) Christopher Flanagan (A) Tina Purcell (A)

Sunday 11.30am: Denis Kelleher (A) Bernard Murphy (RD) Special Intentions

We also remember: Tom Kirwan, William & Mary Ryall, Dinny Ryall, Sean & Betty Tutty, Patrick Glennon, Simon & Maisie Hopkins, Peter Hopkins, Christopher & Mary Lambert, Ita Gaughran, Josephine O’Toole

Monday: Mass offered for all the Blessington List of the Sick

Tuesday: Patrick Glennon (A) Jack & Winnie McDermott(A)

Wednesday: Gertie Byrne (RD) Margaret (Peg) Traynor (RD)

Thursday: Thanksgiving Mass, Mick Eustace (RD) Peter & Daisy Eustace (A)

Friday: Birthday Mass, Intentions Mass

All Masses & Services via Webcam www.blessingtonparish.ie

Daily Mass at 9.30am, Monday to Friday please join us in prayer for The Rosary at 9am

Saturday 23^rd January Mass at 6pm

Sunday 24^th January Mass at 10am and 11.30am

While the Parish Office is  Closed to the Public. We are available by telephone or email  for Mass Bookings, Mass Cards, & General Enquiries Monday to Friday. Email: office@blessington.info Carol: 045 865 327 from 9am to 1pm. Jean: 087 2350835 from 9am to 5pm

The Church is open from 10am on Monday to Saturday and after 11.30am Mass on Sundays to allow people to drop in for quiet prayer or to light a candle. please use the HAND SANITISER as you enter & as you leave the Church. There is a Collection Point at the back of the Church to collect Mass Cards ordered by phone or by email 045 865 327 office@blessington.info

Crib Exhibition – Thank you to all who donated to the Daughters of Charity Homeless Shelter. The Sisters welcome the Confirmation candidates from our parish for a visit every year and help to give them an experience of how shelters operate. The amount raised during the exhibition before Christmas  was €435

COVID-19 Support Line for Older People. ALONE manage a national support line and additional supports for older people who have concerns or are facing difficulties relating to COVID-19 Professional staff are available to answer queries and give advice and reassurance where necessary. The support line is open  7 days a week, 8am – 8pm, by calling 0818 222 024. Calls to the ALONE National Support Line cost no more than a local call to a landline. Calls from Vodafone or landline bundles, PAYG bundles, and mobile contracts are free.

Financial Support for our Parish is very important at this time and we are most grateful for your contributions. You can make donations to support all our Churches via the DONATE BUTTON on the Blessington parish website(options available for all our Churches.) All SHRINE MONEY remains in the parish. Donations through the black PDF BOXES in Blessington Church also go towards the running of the parish. We are very grateful for your ongoing support. Support for our Diocese through the1st & 2nd collections may also be made via the DONATE BUTTON on our website, the 1st collection goes to towards the support of the parish. The 2nd collection goes to the Diocese. There are also envelopes available in all Churches for these donations.

St Marys’ Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto This week’s Jackpot was €3800. If you’re not in you can’t win! Text the word Blessington to 51444 or go to www.blessingtonparish.ie Thanks to all for the support! Congratulation to the weekly winner on 14th January: Donna Robbins.

Fr Kevin’s Homilies  are always available on our website: https://blessingtonparish.ie/homilies-year-b/

The Blessington Interfaith Group is organising the next event, hopefully sometime around Easter, if circumstances permit. We will be in touch regarding the details. In the meantime, if anyone is interested in meeting on line we would like to hear from you. Call us on any of the numbers below.  Many thanks to all who have supported us over the years & we wish you & your families every blessing for Christmas & the New Year. Anton Trant: 086 3389553    Grania Glancy: 087 125 3190  Joan Griffith: 087 9704832     Gerry Curran: 087 284 1009

COURSES IN YOUR LOCAL ETB THIS NEW YEAR Blessington Further Education and Training Centre. Why not try something new this new year? We have a range of courses available to brighten up the dark days and evenings:

• How to lead a healthier, stress free life
• Basic and improver computer skills
• Introduction to art
• Help with reading, writing, spelling and communications
• English for speakers of other languages

Our courses are free of charge and open to those who never fully completed their formal education. A great way to learn and have fun in a safe and friendly environment. All Covid-19 guidelines are strictly adhered to. For further information on all the above please contact Annette at 086-8462771 or Caroline at 045-851494.

Courses in the Further Education & Training Centre Blessington. We are currently enrolling for courses for our new term starting in January 2021

Part Time Courses (Day and Evening) Looking to up-skill or learn something new whilst gaining a QQI qualification? Our part time courses are two days a week and are either day or evening. We have part time courses available in the following starting this January:

eBusiness  (Day course)

Tourism with Business (Day course)

Healthcare  (Evening course)

Employment Skills  (Day course)

Horticulture (Day course)

Office Skills  (Day course)

For further information please contact Anne McGrath or Karen Townsend on 086 850 3833 or 045 891 099 or blessingtonfetc@kwetb.ie

Good Dry Kindling for Sale at Blessington Men’s Shed €3 for 1 Bag €10 for 3 Bags. For collection information phone John Flynn at 087 297 7678. All money raised for upkeep of Shed during these difficult times.”

Irish Hospice Foundation – Living with Loss. We are now accepting bookings for the 2021 series of Workshops on Loss and Bereavement which will be delivered online via Zoom from January – June.  Booking Details can be found on the following link https://hospicefoundation.ie/education-training/bereavement-training/workshops/  Please note bookings and payment for the workshops can only be made by using the following link to Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.ie/o/irish-hospice-foundation-31883804183

St Vincent de Paul local number 087 181 1579

• NEWSLETTER ADS

Just Got Engaged ? Elegant & Stylish Wedding photography. €1250 for full digital package + free Engagement photo session. Ring Jim on 087 679 9008. Instagram jimschofieldphotography

BLESSINGTON LAKES GARDEN CENTRE – Due to COVID-19 restrictions we can only deliver to our customers. Please call to discuss your order with us. All spring seeds and bulbs are in stock. 045 865 403. 087 931 9111

Career Guidance Service for students and parents with experienced qualified guidance counsellor, individual attention. Phone Gary: 086 857 4262

Furniture For Sale – Solid Pine Kitchen Table and 6 chairs 150x90cm. Solid Mahogony Sideboard 175 x 50 x 85cm. Both items in excellent condition. Phone 086 160 9293

Gardening – For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Fruit Tree pruning, Painting etc Phone Mark 085 133 7714

Funbugs Childcare have the following positions available: RELIEF STAFF and IN-HOUSE CLEANER – Relief Staff must have a passion for working with children. In-House Cleaner: flexible working hours, 4-6 hrs per week. Own transport for both is desirable. For more details, please contact Sinead or Leslie-Ann at 045 862 929 or Manager@funbugs.ie Funbugs Childcare, Rathmore, Eadestown, Naas.

Sakura Montessori in Blessington – Are looking for two kind, gentle and nurturing Practitioners with minimum FETAC / QQI Level 5 qualifications. Part-time Childcare Practioner. Aims Practioner. Immediate start. Please apply with CV and Cover Letter to: Antoinette Byrne at antoinettebyrnesakurabless@gmail.com

GasHome – Boiler Servicing and Repairs – RGI Registered. Phone Stephen 087 9060 894

Blessington Airport Taxi – 087 255 7993 Standard Taxi €77 one way. Large 7-Seater €87 one way. Call Richard on 087 255 7993 Or email: richardmc.keever@yahoo.ie

Paying too much to SKY or UPC? We install & Repair Free to Air and Saorview!! No more bills!! Call Billy: 086 868 0053

Active Appliance Repairs over 20 years’ experience repairing and servicing all brands of domestic and commercial appliances. For a fast, friendly and efficient service call us today on 086 393 7762 or 086 361 9082. Call out Charge €75  www.activeappliancerepairs.ie

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

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

CHRISTMAS MASSES in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Due to the restriction on numbers allowed to gather indoors, access to the Christmas Masses in Blessington is by TICKET ONLY. We are sorry to say that you will have be turned away if you don’t have a ticket.  There are no tickets left for any of the Christmas Masses.

Tickets are available now from the Parish Office for Masses on 26^th & 27^th December 2^nd & 3^rd January

Mass Intentions this Week:

Pearl Tipper (RD) Tallaght, Michael Behan (RD) Blessington, Kate Riordan (RD) Drimnagh, Maeve Conlan (RD) Kildare Town

Saturday 6pm: Christy, Kathleen & Goo Nolan (Rem) Jimmy, Maisie & May Nolan (Rem) Mary & Tom Tivnan (Rem) Eddie Conroy (Rem) Jimmy O’Leary (1st A)

Sunday 10am: Maisie Monaghan (Rem) Pete Nolan (Rem) Derek Larkin (1st A) Bridget Norton (Rem) Kathleen Smith (A) Sheila Zeller (Rem)

We also remember: Peg & Paddy Eustace, Margaret Roche, Karen McEvoy, Jim, Joan & Eilish Bird, Deceased Mem of the Kelly Family, Deceased Mem of the Higgins Family, Deceased Mem of the Halligan Family, Ned, Rosemary, & John Walsh, Thomas & Ann Eustace, Thomas & Susan Eustace, Dec Mem of Tipper & Mahon Families, Simon, Rebecca & Maisie Hopkins, Charles & Catherine Doran, Dec Mem of Harkin & O’Connor Fam, Dec Mem of Hayes & Bell Families, Claire Twyford, Gemma Hanlon, Gerry Foley, Jimmy Heeney, Betty Heeney, Mick & Julia Tyrrell, Eileen Clifton, Joe Nugent

Monday: Mass offered for all the Blessington List of the Sick

Tuesday: Francis Sheridan (A) Margaret Roche (A) Claire Twyford (A)

Wednesday: Barry O’Donnell (Rem) Ken Geoghegan (RD) Regina Duffy (1^st A)

4^th SUNDAY OF ADVENT 20th December 2020. Mary accepted the life of God into her womb through the power of the Holy Spirit thus bringing God’s salvation into the world. Let us open our hearts to welcoming Jesus

Blessington Parish 2^nd Annual CHRISTMAS CRIB EXHIBITION in the Coimín Centre Blessington. December 19th 11am to 6pm, December 20th 11am to 5pm. Over 100 exhibits of “Cribs from around the World” Some beautiful new additions this year.

►Saturday 19^th December: Mass at 6pm

►Sunday 20^th December: Mass at 10am

►Daily Mass at 9.30am, Monday to Wednesday

All Masses & Services still available via Webcam www.blessingtonparish.ie

Blessington Parish Office will close for Christmas on Wednesday 23^rd December at 1pm

You may still call or email if you wish to have someone prayed for at Mass. Email: office@blessington.info Office: 045 865 327.Blessington Parish Christmas Mass Bouquets, Christmas Cards and other gift items on sale.

St Vincent de Paul local number : 087 181 1579

Donations can be left in the Parish Office

St Marys’ Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto This week’s Jackpot is €3375!! That would cover the Christmas shopping! If you’re not in you can’t win! Text the word Blessington to 51444 or go to www.blessingtonparish.ie

The Blessington Interfaith Group is organising the next event, hopefully sometime around Easter, if circumstances permit. We will be in touch regarding the details. In the meantime, if anyone is interested in meeting on line we would like to hear from you. Call us on any of the numbers below.  Many thanks to all who have supported us over the years & we wish you & your families every blessing for Christmas & the New Year. Anton Trant: 086 3389553 – Grania Glancy: 087 125 3190 – Joan Griffith: 087 9704832 – Gerry Curran: 087 284 1009

Comhghairdeas le gach buachaill agus cailín i nGaelscoil na Lochanna! Congratulations to the Boys & Girls who received 1^st Holy Communion last Sunday 13^th December in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Blessington Library is Open. Our usual opening hours apply: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 10am to 5pm Tuesday & Thursday: 10am to 8.30pm The library is open for browsing and borrowing only. Study spaces & computers are not available.

Gaelscoil na Lochanna- Oíche Oscailte agus Chlárúcháin, 14ú Eanáir 2021 Our Open/Enrolment night for places in school for next Sept is on 14th January 7:30pm by Zoom Webinar. Webinar will be open from 7pm. Please see our website to click and join the Zoom, www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com Enrolment period lasts from 14th Jan to 3th Feb, 2021. We have a new website for parents FAQ about joining a Gaelscoil: www.gsnl.info 087 938 8651 for any enquiries.  Fáilte!

CONGRATULATIONS to the Winners of the final Valleymount Private Members Draw this year

€1000 winners:  May Nolan, Tony & Regina Clarke,  Jenny & Glen Cullen,  Kathleen Clarke, Johnny O’Reilly

€ 500 winners: Alice Stones, Catherine O’Mahony, Seamus McDonald, John Holmes, Jane Broe

€ 200 winners: Rose Zeller, Paddy Broe, Anne & Jimmy Flynn, Fiona & Tom Guing, Ann & Martin O’Connor

€ 100 winners Patricia & Frank Donnelly, Fr Richard Behan, Scruff Farrington, John Balfe Lodge Lane, Don & Mary O’Sullivan, Jacinta Shannon, Marie & Peter McDonald, Lilian & Chris Pocock, Mary & Jack Paton, Alice & Peter Byrne

Fr Kevin’s Homilies are always available on our website: https://blessingtonparish.ie/homilies-year-a/

The Blessington and District Forum would like to thank the communities of Blessington and Lakeside for their continued support this year. The generosity shown in both the Switching on of the Christmas Lights and the Toy Appeal has been phenomenal. We would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a Healthy and Safe 2021.

Good Dry Kindling for Sale at Blessington Men’s Shed – €3 for 1 Bag. €10 for 3 Bags. For collection information phone: John Flynn at 087 297 7678. All money raised for upkeep of Shed during these difficult times.”

Calling all Local Businesses, Artists & Crafters! Community Pool for West Wicklow are hosting an online Christmas Market and we would like you to be part of it! Every day from early November we will be posting a new video to our social media pages, like an extended Advent Calendar. Each video will showcase a different local business or artist and their products. We hope that our online Christmas Market will help to encourage people to shop local and support local businesses this Christmas. If you think this is something you would like to get involved in, then email us at poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES THIS CHRISTMAS: follow our New Instagram page BLESSINGTON BUSINESS WOMEN.  A page set up for women in business & also other local  businesses in Blessington & surrounding areas to network, connect & support one another. Find out more about all the amazing small businesses we have in our fantastic village from highly talented nail salons, beauty salons, hair salons, make-up artists, eyelash specialists & holistic therapists, our local cafe & health shop. Or introduce yourself to some of the top fitness specialists, nutritionists, dance & yoga studios, photographers & nutritionists. We even have our very own Doula! Take the hassle & stress out of Christmas Shopping this year and help to support our community by treating someone special to a Gift Voucher for some wonderful pampering or buying a gift from one of our many talented businesses.

Senior Line If you are an older person and would like someone to talk to, consider phoning Senior Line.  A National Confidential Service for Older People. Open every day from 10am -10pm.  We are older people too, trained to listen & support.  Freefone 1800 80 45 91

Crosscare Appeal for Support this Christmas as their normal food collections have been cancelled. Crosscare is appealing to people to support them online this Advent as they will be unable to hold their annual Parish Food Collection for those most in need. Every December, Crosscare collected thousands of Euros worth of non-perishable foods to restock their foodbanks and support their community cafés. This year, due to Covid 19 restrictions Crosscare will not be able to launch a food collection in the Diocese of Dublin as usual. However, in order to ensure they have adequate supplies, they are asking people to support them by making a donation online to make sure families struggling to cope can have food on the table this Christmas. Archbishop Diarmuid Martin has appealed to priests and parishes to encourage those parishioners who would ordinarily have supported food drives and the unwanted gifts appeal to go on line and make a donation www.crosscare.ie

Courses in the Further Education & Training Centre Blessington We are currently enrolling for courses for our new term starting in January 2021

Part Time Courses (Day and Evening) Looking to up-skill or learn something new whilst gaining a QQI qualification? Our part time courses are two days a week and are either day or evening. We have part time courses available in the following starting this January: eBusiness  (Day course) Tourism with Business (Day course) Healthcare  (Evening course) Employment Skills  (Day course) Horticulture (Day course) Office Skills  (Day course) For further information please contact Anne McGrath or Karen Townsend on 086 850 3833 or 045 891 099 or blessingtonfetc@kwetb.ie

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT 6^th December – 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.

Mass Intentions this Week

Georgia Gormally (RD)  Manchester , Michael (Mick)  Eustace (RD) Manor Kilbride

Saturday 6pm: Micheline & Peter Comey (A) Seamus & Josie Byrne (A)

Sunday 10am: Mary Brennan (1st A) Teresa Byrne (A) Dora Byrne (A)

We also remember: Essie Hanlon, Michael & Irene O’Donnell, Michael & Elizabeth O’Toole

Monday: Mass offered for all the Blessington List of the Sick

 Tuesday 8^th December – Feast of the Immaculate Conception

10am Seamus Joyce (RD) Jim Winters (RD)

8pm  Deceased Members of Blessington GAA

Wednesday: Barry O’Donnell (Rem) Jack Thomas (RD)

Thursday: Madelene O’Donnell (A) Peggy O’Conner (RD)

Friday: Michael Malone (RD) Ken Cullen (RD)

►Daily Mass at 9.30am, Monday to Friday

►Saturday 5^th December: Mass at 6pm

►Sunday 6^th December: Mass at 10am

►Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Tuesday 8^th December – Mass Times:

10.00am & 8.00pm in Blessington ***

10.00am in Crosschapel

11.00am in Manor Kilbride

11.15am in Valleymount

***►Rosary & Adoration from 7pm to 7.45 pm (followed by the Holy Day Mass at 8pm)

►The Parish Office will remain closed for the Holy Day

Our Churches have re-opened for public Mass. A ticket is required to attend weekend Masses in Church of Our Lady Blessington, available from the Parish Office: 045 865 327. Parish Office from 9am to 1pm – Monday to Friday. A ticket will also be needed for the 8pm Mass on Tuesday 8th December, Holy Day, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

Join with Fr. Richard & Fr. Joe for evening prayer via Zoom Each Wednesday at 7.30pm.  Log on to http://www.blessingtonparishes.com and click on the Zoom button. If you have any difficulty logging in, please contact us at  info@blessingtonparishes.com

A Message from St Vincent de Paul: Please support the SVP Collection next weekend Saturday 12^th & Sunday 13^th December. The funds raised will be spent in the local community helping those who need it most with food, heating and education costs throughout the winter and beyond. We rely almost entirely on the support of our generous parishioners. Your donation will make all the difference. Donations can be made by dropping your donation in an envelope marked SVP Blessington to the Parish Office or by making a lodgement to Ulster Bank Blessington A/c: 15436018, S/c: 985340 YOUR SUPPORT IS VERY MUCH APPRECIATED, All donations will be acknowledged where details are supplied.

The Annual Senior Citizens Draw which is held in Hennessys Public House is cancelled due to Covid. We would like to wish all our supporters & sponsors a very happy & safe Christmas & New Year.  We will see you all in 2021. Tom, John, Barry, Tara Karen, Edel, Lilly, Bernadette and Geraldine.

Small Sum of Money Found in a little zipped purse on the path opposite St Mary’s Junior School. Enquiries: School Office 045 865 501 or Parish Office: 045 865 327

Sum of Money Found in Church On Friday 20^th November Call Parish Office: 045 865 327

Good Dry Kindling for Sale at Blessington Men’s Shed – €3 for 1 Bag. €10 for 3 Bags. For collection information phone: John Flynn at 087 297 7678. All money raised for upkeep of Shed during these difficult times.”

Blessington Parish Office WE ARE OPEN 9am to 1.00pm Monday to Friday. You may still call or email if you wish to have someone prayed for at Mass. Email: office@blessington.info Office: 045 865 327 Jean: 087 235 0835 – 9am to 5pm. Blessington Parish Christmas Mass Bouquets, Christmas Cards and other gift items on sale. All items can be ordered over the phone and collected later.

Winners of Valleymount & Lacken Parish Members Draw for November – Seamus Doyle, Jane Broe, Breda O’Brien,  John Holmes, Mary Fitzpatrick. The FINAL DRAW will be held in Valleymount Church after 11.15am Mass on Sunday December 13^th

The Annual Senior Citizens Draw which is held in Hennessys Public House is cancelled due to Covid. We would like to wish all our supporters & sponsors a very happy & safe Christmas & New Year.  We will see you all in 2021. Tom, John, Barry, Tara Karen, Edel, Lilly, Bernadette and Geraldine.

Blessington Library has re-opened under Level 3 of the Plan for Living with Covid-19. Our usual opening hours apply: Mon/Wed/Fri/Sat: 10am – 5pm. Tues/Thurs: 10am – 8.30pm The library is open for browsing and borrowing only. Study spaces & computers are not available at this time.

Gaelscoil na Lochanna- Oíche Oscailte agus Chlárúcháin, 14ú Eanáir 2021. Our Open/Enrolment night for places in school for next Sept is on 14th January 7:30pm by Zoom Webinar. Webinar will be open from 7pm. Please see our website to click and join the Zoom, www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com Enrolment period lasts from 14th Jan to 3th Feb, 2021. We have a new website for parents FAQ about joining a Gaelscoil: www.gsnl.info 087 938 8651 for any enquiries.  Fáilte!

Fr Kevin’s Homilies are always available on our website: https://blessingtonparish.ie/homilies-year-a/

Home sharing Give a Little Time- Make A Big Difference have you the time to offer breaks to an adult with an intellectual disability in your home for mid-week and weekend overnight BREAKS? You don’t need a qualification, just energy, commitment & the desire to support a person with a disability in your community. Information & support are PROVIDED, & you will be paid an allowance. If you are interested in hosting, please contact: Jennifer Alfa Ogbaje, Social Worker, KARE,  Mc Mahon Centre, Kilcullen, Co. Kildare. Email; Jennifer.alfaogbaje@kare.ie  45 480 200 or 087 720 6779

Calling all Local Businesses, Artists & Crafters! Community Pool for West Wicklow are hosting an online Christmas Market and we would like you to be part of it! Every day from early November we will be posting a new video to our social media pages, like an extended Advent Calendar. Each video will showcase a different local business or artist and their products. We hope that our online Christmas Market will help to encourage people to shop local and support local businesses this Christmas. If you think this is something you would like to get involved in, then email us at poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES THIS CHRISTMAS: follow our New Instagram page BLESSINGTON BUSINESS WOMEN.  A page set up for women in business & also other local  businesses in Blessington & surrounding areas to network, connect & support one another. Find out more about all the amazing small businesses we have in our fantastic village from highly talented nail salons, beauty salons, hair salons, make-up artists, eyelash specialists & holistic therapists, our local cafe & health shop. Or introduce yourself to some of the top fitness specialists, nutritionists, dance & yoga studios, photographers & nutritionists. We even have our very own Doula! Take the hassle & stress out of Christmas Shopping this year and help to support our community by treating someone special to a Gift Voucher for some wonderful pampering or buying a gift from one of our many talented businesses.

Senior Line If you are an older person and would like someone to talk to, consider phoning Senior Line.  A National Confidential Service for Older People. Open every day from 10am -10pm.  We are older people too, trained to listen & support.  Freefone 1800 80 45 91

Crosscare Appeal for Support this Christmas as their normal food collections have been cancelled. Crosscare is appealing to people to support them online this Advent as they will be unable to hold their annual Parish Food Collection for those most in need. Every December, Crosscare collected thousands of Euros worth of non-perishable foods to restock their foodbanks and support their community cafés. This year, due to Covid 19 restrictions Crosscare will not be able to launch a food collection in the Diocese of Dublin as usual. However, in order to ensure they have adequate supplies, they are asking people to support them by making a donation online to make sure families struggling to cope can have food on the table this Christmas. Archbishop Diarmuid Martin has appealed to priests and parishes to encourage those parishioners who would ordinarily have supported food drives and the unwanted gifts appeal to go on line and make a donation www.crosscare.ie

OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, KING OF THE UNIVERSE 22nd November 2020

Jesus’ kingship is the kingship of one who is dedicated to his Father. He lives and dies for the truth. In his death and resurrection he is enthroned in the glory of his Father. This is the kingship we celebrate: one who has passed through the worst of human life to a life and joy that is eternal.

Mass Intentions this Week – Mai Heneghan (Mayo), Pamela Shortland (Santry Hill) Margaret O’Toole

Saturday 6pm: Michelle Pender (1^st ) Elizabeth Coogan (1^st A) Helen Dardis & deceased members of Dardis Family

Sunday 10am: Elizabeth Dunne (1^st A) Shay Duffy (1^st A) Mary & Matthew Lennon, Michael & Ann Mary Norton (Rem) Larry Lennon (Birthday Remembrance) Deceased Members of Norton Family

We also remember: Bridie Coughlan (A) Liz McGinnity (A) Myles & Hannah Wilson

Monday: Mass offered for all the Blessington List of the Sick

Tuesday: Bridie Coughlan (A) Betty Collins (RD)

Wednesday: Sharon O’Brien (Birthday Remembrance) Liz McGinnity (A) Get Well Intentions Mass

Thursday: Maureen Cooney (RD) Owen McGovern (RD)

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

All Masses & Services via Webcam www.blessingtonparish.ie

►Daily Mass at 9.30am, Monday to Friday please join us in prayer for the rosary at 9am

►Saturday 21st November 2020: Mass at 6.00pm

►Sunday 22nd November 2020 Mass at 10am

The family of the late Michelle Pender of Lake View, wish to acknowledge the huge expression of sympathy & kindness shown to the family. on our very sad loss of Michelle. We are truly grateful to our extended family, neighbours & friends for their continued emotional support, which has given the family great strength & comfort during our time of grief. For the cards, Mass intentions & charitable donations, please accept our heartfelt thanks. A special thank you to the staff of Naas Hospital, Fr. Behan, Tony & Regina Clarke for their sensitive handling of Michelle’s funeral arrangements. Mass will be offered for your Intentions. Ar Dheis De go raibh a anam, Eileen and Tommie & Family.

On this, the first Anniversary of Elizabeth Coogan, John Coogan & family would like to thank all the Doctors & Nurses in Naas hospital for taking such great care of her during her final illness, we would like to thank the Byrne & Coogan families for all the support they gave & continue to give since her passing.  Thank you to all who came to her wake & funeral to sympathise with us, it meant a great deal to us to see so many neighbours, family & friends, to those who gave Mass cards, flowers etc It was greatly appreciated. We would especially like to thank Tony & Regina Clarke for the dignity & respect they showed Elizabeth & our family, also thank you to Fr Richard for a lovely funeral mass. Thanks to Enda Carmody for the beautiful flower arrangement & also to Lorraine Willoughby for her wonderful singing. A mass will be offered up for you all. John Coogan & family.

November List of the Dead – Envelopes available in Blessington, Manor Kilbride, & Valleymount Churches. They can be returned to Blessington Parish Office. Masses offered on the 1^st Friday of every month throughout the year.

November Remembrance Mass – The candles we lit for our Parishioners who died in the past year during our November Mass are available for collection from the back of the Church. Perhaps a neighbour or friend could collect one and drop it off.

Join with Fr. Richard & Fr. Joe, in evening prayer via Zoom Monday, Wednesday, & Friday at 7.30pm. Log on to http://www.blessingtonparishes.com and click on the Zoom button. If you have any difficulty logging in, please contact us at info@blessingtonparishes.com

Financial Support for the Parish – Blessington, Crosschapel, Manor Kilbride, Valleymount & Lacken. During this time, you can make donations to support all our Churches via the DONATE BUTTON on the parish website  www.blessingtonparish.ie All SHRINE MONEY remains in the parish Donations through the black PDF BOXES in Blessington Church also go towards the running of the parish. We are very grateful for your ongoing support. Support for our Diocese  through the 1st & 2nd collections may also be made via the DONATE BUTTON on our website. The 1st collection goes to towards the support of the parish. The 2nd collection goes to the Diocese. There are also envelopes available in all Churches for these donations.

Blessington Parish Office will remain closed to the public during the current restrictions. Please call or email if you wish to have someone prayed for at Mass. Blessington Parish Christmas Mass Bouquets, Christmas Cards and other gift items now on sale. Email: office@blessington.info Carol: 045 865 327 – 9am to 12.30pm Jean: 087 235 0835 – 9am to 5pm Call or email for Mass Bookings, Mass Cards, Baptisms, Weddings & General Enquiries. All items can be collected…………

SAINT VINCENT de PAUL BLESSINGTON  – URGENT APPEAL – Unfortunately, due to Covid-19 restrictions SVP Blessington could not carry out their regular annual fundraising activities to raise much needed funds to service the people & families in hardship in the local community of Blessington, Valleymount, Lacken, Ballyknockan, Manor Kilbride & the surrounding areas. SVP Blessington is appealing to the community to give what you can to help families in need during this critical time. Your donation will make all the difference. Donations can be made by dropping your donation in an envelope marked SVP Blessington to the Parish Office or by making a lodgement to Ulster Bank Blessington A/c: 15436018, S/c: 985340 All donations will be acknowledged where details are supplied. YOUR SUPPORT IS VERY MUCH APPRECIATED

Collection for the Capuchin Day Centre for the Homeless. Saturday 21^st November – Lakeshore Striders A.C Annual Charity Collection for the Capuchin Day Centre for the Homeless will take place on Saturday 21^st November  at the back entrance to SuperValu, Blessington from 12pm to 3pm (NOTE new collection point) Items requested by the centre include toiletries (shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, razors, toothpaste, tooth brushes, etc), nappies, baby food & formula, hats, socks, gloves, scarves as well as canned foods such as beans, peas, fruit etc. Please note the centre does not require sleeping bags this year. Cash donations also accepted on the day.  For further information please email lakeshorestriders@gmail.com or call Edel on 087 961 8337

Fr Kevin’s Homilies are always available on our website: https://blessingtonparish.ie/homilies-year-a/

2021 SCHOOL ENROLMENTS

St Marys Junior N.S. Parents with children for junior infants starting in September 2021 please submit an application form by 20^th November 2020. Forms are available for downloading by clicking on the Parent Info tab on our website:  www.stmarysjns.weebly.com Pre-printed copies of the form can be picked up from school reception. Completed forms may be emailed to the school office: bsec@live.ie or posted to St Marys JNS, Main Street, Blessington W91YN0P.  If you have any questions or require an application form by post, please phone the school office 045 865 501.Go raibh míle maith agat.

St. Joseph’s National School Valleymount are now taking applications for Junior Infants starting September 2021. Phone the office at 045-867289 or email valleymountns@gmail.comm for enrolment forms. Closing date for applications – November 30th, 2020

Lacken Naíonra NOW ENROLLING. Emphasis is on the holistic development of pre-school children through outdoor activity. ECCE and NCS approved. Enquiries  to lackenschool@eircom.net or phone 045 865086

Lacken National School has places available in the Early Intervention Class. Enquiries to  lackenschool@eircom.net or phone 045 865086

Blessington Lights up for Christmas 2020 Your Community needs your help!! We are looking for each household to make a small donation to ensure we can light up our Christmas Tree and Streetlights this December. We need to raise €4,500. Nobody wants to drive down the Main Street in Darkness this December. We need plenty of Christmas cheer. Come on Blessington Community, dig deep!! Donation Buckets in McGreals, The Credit Union and Wonkas, alternatively, please donate via  www.gofundme.com/blessington-lights-up

Calling all Local Businesses, Artists & Crafters! Community Pool for West Wicklow are hosting an online Christmas Market and we would like you to be part of it! Every day from early November we will be posting a new video to our social media pages, like an extended Advent Calendar. Each video will showcase a different local business or artist and their products. We hope that our online Christmas Market will help to encourage people to shop local and support local businesses this Christmas. If you think this is something you would like to get involved in, then email us at poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com

Community Pool for West Wicklow have taken our Christmas Market online this year! Join us every day when we will showcase a new local business or artist and help you to shop local and support local businesses this Christmas! Videos can be viewed on our Facebook page @PoolforWestWicklow Instagram @westwicklowpool Twitter @poolforWestWic1 and on our brand new You Tube Channel https://tinyurl.com/CPWWYouTube Christmas will be a little different this year, but we can still spread a bit of magic & cheer!

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES THIS CHRISTMAS: follow our New Instagram page BLESSINGTON BUSINESS WOMEN.  A page set up for women in business & also other local  businesses in Blessington & surrounding areas to network, connect & support one another. Find out more about all the amazing small businesses we have in our fantastic village from highly talented nail salons, beauty salons, hair salons, make-up artists, eyelash specialists & holistic therapists, our local cafe & health shop. Or introduce yourself to some of the top fitness specialists, nutritionists, dance & yoga studios, photographers & nutritionists. We even have our very own Doula! Take the hassle & stress out of Christmas Shopping this year and help to support our community by treating someone special to a Gift Voucher for some wonderful pampering or buying a gift from one of our many talented businesses.

Senior Line If you are an older person and would like someone to talk to, consider phoning Senior Line.  A National Confidential Service for Older People. Open every day from 10am -10pm.  We are older people too, trained to listen & support.  Freefone 1800 80 45 91

St Vincent de Paul local number 087 181 1579

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Wanted – Teaching Council Registered Teacher/s for Leaving Cert student for DES approved 10 hrs of Home/Online Tuition. Subjects include Maths, Biology, Business & Home Economics. Phone 087 952 4659

Beautiful, Outdoor Family Photography. By the lake or in the woods. Just in time for Christmas. €120 for full digital package,mRing Jim on 087 6799008Instagram jimschofieldphotography

Martin Craul & Co, Statutory Auditors, Accountants & Chartered Tax Advisors, Now at: Block One, Unit 1F, Blessington Business Park, W91 XT18 (near Fire Station). 045 891 505 or 045 891 507 (unchanged) 087 279 1325 (Martin) mcraulco@gmail.comm (Post Box 1) Any data to 2 Millbank still in order.

Junior Office Administrator with experience is currently looking for work. Phone Orla 087 3190779

GasHome – Boiler Servicing and Repairs – RGI Registered. Phone Stephen 087 9060 894

Career Guidance Service for students and parents with experienced qualified guidance counsellor, individual attention Phone Gary: 086 857 4262

Gardening- For Winter Tidying, Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Fruit Tree pruning, Painting etc Phone Mark 085-1337714

McGreal’s Hearing Centre – Our Clinical Audiologist & Rehabilitation Specialist, Justine Rae, is based at our Main Street Pharmacy in Blessington. To book a hearing test phone 1890 92 92 59 or visit mcgreals.ie

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

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

 Active Appliance Repairs over 20 years’ experience repairing and servicing all brands of domestic and commercial appliances. For a fast, friendly and efficient service call us today on 086 393 7762 or 086 361 9082. Call out Charge €75  www.activeappliancerepairs.ie

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

Castle Canine Cuts – Dog Grooming Service. Clipping, Trimming, Shampooing for all Breeds. Nail and ear care included. Appointments Monday-Saturday. Contact Gillian on 087 764 1911 castlecanincuts@gmail.com or find us on Facebook.

Talbot Chimneys Ltd – Family Run Business Since 1978, Insurance Claims Handled, Chimney Repairs / Reline / Rebuild, CCTv Surveys, Chimney Cleaning, Descaling of Soot & Tar Build Up, Fully Insured, No Call-Out Charge for OAPs on Mention of this Ad. Freephone 1800 406 700, Office 045 850 957  www.talbotchimneys.ie

Blessington Airport Taxi – 087 255 7993 Standard Taxi €77 one way Large 7-Seater €87 one way Call Richard on 087 255 7993 Or email: richardmc.keever@yahoo.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

Paying too much to SKY or UPC? We install & Repair Free to Air and Saorview!! No more bills!! Call Billy: 086 868 0053

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

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

COVID-19 Support Lines for Older People ALONE manage a national support line and additional supports for older people who have concerns or are facing difficulties relating to the outbreak of COVID-19. Professional staff are available to answer queries and give advice and reassurance where necessary. The support line is open seven days a week, 8am – 8pm, by calling 0818 222 024.

Blessington Parish Office Christmas Mass Cards, Christmas Cards & other gift items now on sale. Carol: 045 865 327 9am to 12.30pm Jean: 087 235 0835 9am to 5pm.  office@blessington.info