TWENTY – EIGHTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

God is generous to his people; his is the gift of life and love, of reconciliation and of justice. He expects us to be generous in return so that others may know his generosity.

Mass Intentions this Week

Imelda James (RD) Saggart, Mary Walsh (RD) Donard

Saturday 6pm: John & Bridie Richardson (A) James Byrne (A) Paddy Nolan (A) Betty Tyrrell (A)

Sunday 10am: Eileen Kelly (Mths Mind) David Clarke (A) Michael Tully Jnr (A)

We also remember: Rosanna Wright, Joan Duffner, Michael & Thomas Fitzpatrick, Dave Clarke John Kavanagh

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

Tuesday: Michael Tully (A) Sean Walsh (RD)

Wednesday: Rosanna Wright (A) Eileen Kelly (RD)

Thursday: Mary Keogh (Birthday Rem)     Michael Hayes (RD)

Friday: Intentions Mass, Intentions Mass

Daily Mass via Webcam at 9.30am Monday to Friday please join us in prayer: www.blessingtonparish.ie

Saturday 10^th October 2020 –  Mass at 6.30pm via webcam on www.blessingtonparish.ie

Sunday 11^th October 2020 –  Sunday Mass at 10am via webcam on www.blessingtonparish.ie

Wednesday 14^th October- Prayers to Our Lady for the month of October. from 11am -12 noon from Church of Our Lady, Blessington, via webcam only www.blessingtonparish.ie

The Church is open from 10am to 6pm every day. Drop in for quiet prayer or to light a candle. We will keep the area cleaned & disinfected but please use the HAND SANITISER as you enter & as you leave the Church.

Church Collections – donations can be made to the 1st & 2nd collections via the DONATE BUTTON on the parish website. The 1st collection goes to towards the support of the parish The 2nd collection goes to the Diocese.

All the SHRINE MONEY & donations in the black PDF BOXES on the wall of the church remain in the parish. During this time you can also make donations via the DONATE BUTTON on the parish website. Thank you for your ongoing support.

This is an unprecedent time, it’s time for unprecedented kindness

KEEPING FAITH, HOPE AND LOVE DURING LEVEL – 3 RESTRICTIONS

Masses continue to be celebrated but without a congregation

In-person parish meetings are not to proceed

Funeral Masses may be celebrated with up to 25 mourners

Weddings may take place with up to 25 guests

Baptisms may not be celebrated

Churches remain open for personal prayer

First Communion and Confirmation Ceremonies are postponed

Find live-streamed Masses at www.blessingtonparish.ie

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

The Parish Office Opening Hours – Monday to Friday from 9am to 12.30pm, for Mass Bookings, Mass Cards, Baptisms, Weddings & General Enquiries. Email: office@blessington.info Carol: 045 865 327 – 9am to 12.30pm Jean: 087 235 0835 – 9am to 5pm Please observe social distance, and use hand sanitiser when entering & leaving the office.

St. Marys’ Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto Jackpot next week €2975 sign up for €2 per week on parish website  https://blessingtonparish.ie

Volunteer Drivers Irish Cancer Society – Irish Cancer Society is looking for volunteers to drive patients to and from their chemotherapy treatments. Drivers with a free weekday availability and who can commit to driving twice a month.  Please email Gail at gflinter@irishcancer.ie or call 01 2310 566 for an application form. Due to the impact of the Coronavirus we are seeking drivers under the age of 70 years.

Cruthú Art Group has now concluded its exhibition at Russborough for 2020. Thank you to everybody who visited us over the Summer. We are delighted to share an ongoing display of art and craft in the Blessington Tourist Office.  Do drop in and have a look.  You may also see some of our art on the Cruthú Art Facebook page. If you wish to enquire about any piece that you see on Facebook, please email cruthuart@gmail.com   Any art available for purchase may be viewed at Blessington Tourist Office by request. www.cruthu.ie

Do you have a few hours to spare to clean the Church? Volunteer Cleaners needed one day a week for the months of Oct, Feb and June. Call the Parish Office 045 865 327

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 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 Mini-Rugby outdoors for 4 and 5 year olds. Boys & girls welcome. K.O. 11:15am every Saturday at St Kevin’s Hall

Blessington Mini-Rugby on Tuesdays U7, U8 and U9 boys & girls from 6pm to 7pm U10 to U13 7pm to 8pm on GAA Astro

Rugby at Russborough for all ages from 10am to 12 noon each Saturday

NEWSLETTER ADS

Cleaner/Housekeeping Assistant Requiredin Blessington Area for approx.4 hours a week references required, must have own transport, Thursday or Friday is preferred.  reply with your current details by email to cradmags@yahoo.com with your telephone  number.

We are a Successful Business established in Blessington for 16 years and require a warehouse operator. Duties include, small production line packing. labelling stock and light duties in the warehouse. We are an equal opportunities employer. Hours are 8am to 5pm Mon to Fri. No weekend work and €10.10 per hour. Please e mail with cover letter to bdempsey919@gmail.com  (No phone calls)

Lady Available For Cleaning (house work) 089 956 3494

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

Garden Maintenance Services Contact Declan for a free quote 087 2145 831

Delighted to announce we have two vacancies available on the Scheme: Caretaker for:

Blessington FC Job Ref CES2152799 Caretaker /Cleaner for

Manor Kilbride Community Hall 1 Job Ref CES2152799

To qualify you must be in receipt of a social welfare payment for the past 12 months. For further info or to apply please phone Martin Cahill on 085 252 356 or 045 891 348 or email martincahill@blessingtonce.ie

Mass Intentions this Week

Saturday 6pm: Mary Kennedy (A) Jimmy Keogh (A) Birthday Remembrance, Ann Linnane  (A) Nora Swift (A)

Sunday 10am: Tom McGreal (A) Jimmy Gallagher (1st A) Madlyn & Tom Rolston (A) Mary & Michael O’Halloran (A)

We also remember: Bernard Kilbride, Trish Lynch (1st A)

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

Tuesday: Carmel Long (Mths Mind) James Barrett (RD)

Wednesday: Jimmy Keogh (Birthday Rem) Roseleen Dolan (RD)

Thursday: Pauline McGovern (RD) Thomas Kelly (RD)

Friday: 1st Friday … Mass offered for all those on the November List of the Dead

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time

We all know of people who promise a lot and do not deliver; maybe each of us is a bit like that. Or the opposite – the grumbler who does the job anyway even if with half-good grace. That is the gospel image today. Jesus prefers the one who does good rather than the one who talks about it. Jesus never looked down on the sinner because many of them believed what he said and did their best to do it. Our prayer moves outwards to give to others, the ‘prayer of the hands’. The sinner is praised for having faith, the prayer of the heart. The test of prayer is in how we love and try to be loving people in our lives.

In this context Pope Francis says: ‘Professing one’s faith in Christ doesn’t stop at words but must be authenticated by concrete choices and gestures, by a life marked by God’s love, a great life, a life with so much love for one’s neighbour’; this is echoing St Ignatius: ‘Love is shown in deeds not words’.

And: “You see that the love John speaks of is not the love of soap operas! No, it is something else. Christian love has a particular quality: concreteness. Christian love is concrete. Jesus Himself, when He speaks of love, speaks to us about concrete things: feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, and many concrete things. Love is concrete.’

Donal Neary SJ, Editor Sacred Heart Messenger

►Tuesday 29th October: Eucharistic Adoration & Rosary will take place every Tuesday from 7pm to 8pm in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. If you are unable to come to the Church, you can join us via webcam on blessingtonparish.ie

►Thursday 1^st October: Holy Hour / Benediction with Deacon Gerry in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. (also available via webcam)

►Friday 2^nd October: 1st Friday of the Month. Mass will be offered for all those whose names are on the Altar List of the Dead. The priests will visit the sick & housebound. If you would like a visit please contact the Parish Office, 045 865 327 Padre Pio Mass will take place at 8pm in Church of Our Lady Blessington.

►Prayers to Our Lady for the month of October every Wednesday from 11am -12 noon in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Dunlavin GAA & Western Gaels are running a Drive in Bingo  in Blessington Mart on 27^th Sept at 2pm. €3000 in prizes. Gates open at 12 noon. Eircode W91 Y667

Searching for  Spanish-English conversation exchange to improve pronunciation. +34687446322 danixa.montero@gmail.com

COURSES IN YOUR LOCAL ETB THIS AUTUMN

Health Related Fitness Course. Why not try something new this winter? This course will help you to: Develop an awareness of issues around health, fitness and physical activities. Make personal choices about food and physical activity. Understand stress and how to deal with it. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. This course will be run for one morning a week. Learn and have fun in a safe and friendly environment. All Covid-19 guidelines strictly adhered to. We also have courses available in Basic computers, English for speakers of other languages and Basic English. For further information on all the above please contact Annette at 086 846 2771 or 045 851 494.

Blessington Mini-Rugby outdoors for 4 and 5 year olds. Boys & girls welcome. K.O. 11:15am every Saturday at St Kevin’s Hall

Blessington Mini-Rugby on Tuesdays U7, U8 and U9 boys & girls from 6pm to 7pm –  U10 to U13 7pm to 8pm on GAA Astro

Rugby at Russborough for all ages from 10am to 12 noon each Saturday

The Parish Office Opening Hours Monday to Friday from 9am to 12.30pm for Mass Bookings, Mass Cards, & Enquiries Email: office@blessington.info Carol: 045 865 327 – 9am to 12.30pm Jean: 087 235 0835 – 9am to 5pm Please observe social distance, and use hand sanitiser when entering & leaving

St. Marys’ Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto Jackpot next week €2875 sign up for €2 per week on parish website

https://blessingtonparish.ie

I may not have everything I want in life but I’m blessed enough to have all that I need! For this …. I am grateful

Email us with your Community Group news: office@blessington.info

St Vincent de Paul local number 087 181 1579

Blessington Tourist Office is holding an Arts & Crafts Mini-Fair  in aid of West Wicklow Cancer Support (WWCS) on Friday 2^nd & Saturday 3^rd October in the Tourist Office from 9am to 5pm each day. Due to the pandemic, the WWCS were not able to organise their usual fundraisers such as coffee mornings, so we have decided to give them a helping hand. Furthermore, with our artists and crafters in mind, we thought that this occasion will increase the footfall into the office or outside (weather permitting) & moreover, wider exposure. The usual 10% that office takes will go to the WWCS & we would also ask for an extra 10% from you as a supporting gesture. There will be a raffle Tickets on sale in the Tourist Office now.

NEWSLETTER ADS

Study and Work Spaces are now available in Blessington Library. Spaces can be booked for two-hour slots. All are physically distanced and separated by screens. Book a space online at www.wicklow.ie/Living/Services/Libraries/Study-Spacees or call us at 045 891740. Photocopying, scanning & printing services available. Free Wi-Fi access.

Blessington Bookstore Christmas Pop-Up Shop now relocated to Method Physio! Click and Collect, or Book to Browse available. Phone us on 083 848 6745 or visit www.blessingtonbooks.com Great books & great gift ideas for birthdays and Christmas for all ages. We are open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm. Looking forward to seeing you!

Great News!! Happy Days School of Performing Arts is back on Saturdays! Giving Children & Teenagers the confident edge in a fun safe environment ! Due to the present situation there are some changes. Temporarily we have moved to: St JOSEPH’S HALL, Blessington. There are some changes of CLASS times as well. Class times are as follows:

INTERMEDIATES: 9.30am to 11am – SENIORS: 11.15am to 12.45pm  – JUNIORS: 1pm to 2.30pm

All classes are fully COVID19 compliant All Teachers are Garda Vetted, fully trained & Certified in Covid Safety measures. For further information and booking please email Grainne at happydaysdrama@gmail.com or call us on 087 6795470 or visit our website: www.happydaysdrama.ie

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

Delighted to announce we have two vacancies available on the Scheme: Caretaker for:

Blessington FC Job Ref CES2152799 Caretaker /Cleaner for

Manor Kilbride Community Hall 1 Job Ref CES2152799

To qualify you must be in receipt of a social welfare payment for the past 12 months. For further info or to apply please phone Martin Cahill on 085 252 356 or 045 891 348 or email martincahill@blessingtonce.ie

24^th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – 13^th September 2020

It is not easy to understand the mind of God. He sees goodness where we see none; he showers blessings where none seem to be deserved. Yet even with our limited vision we can be sure he is near us whenever we call him.

One of the meanings of this parable is that God’s forgiveness is unconditional and amazing. The huge debt is a way for Jesus to say that the forgiveness of the first man was like the forgiveness of God. None of us go through life without needing the forgiveness of God in things big and small. It’s like switching on the light in a dark room, or when an ugly scar heals on the body and we live in light and are beautiful again. The forgiveness is offered on trust: we are to trust that no matter what our past, the present is full of the brightness of forgiveness which flows around the world, as it flowed from Jesus on the cross and in his forgiveness of those who had tortured and killed him.

The forgiveness given is contrasted with the forgiveness refused. The only reason sometimes that we forgive another is to live like Jesus or when we know we are forgiven. C.S. Lewis wrote that ‘everyone thinks forgiveness is a lovely idea until they have something to forgive’ (quoted in M Hogan, Journeying with Matthew).

With the help of Jesus, we must learn to forgive but also to help others to learn to repent and forgive.

Forgive us Lord, and may we forgive each other as you forgive us.

Donal Neary SJ, Editor Sacred Heart Messenger

Mass Intentions this Week

Tom Nolan, Grangecon (RD) Noel Walsh Glasnevin (RD) Sean Callaly Dublin (RD)

Saturday 6pm: Gerard O’Dwyer  (1st A) Eileen Cox (A)

Sunday 10am: Mary Smith (A) Barry O’Donnell (Rem)

We also remember: Mary Ryan  Annie Doyle  Frank Sexton

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

Tuesday: Mary Bolger (A) Greg Hand (RD)

Wednesday: Maureen Boyle (RD) Kay O’Malley (RD)

Thursday: Thanksgiving Mass, Special Intentions

Friday: Tom Fitzharris (A) Anton McGettigan (RD)

The Annual Crosscare Collection will be taken up next weekend September 19th/20th. As you will appreciate Crosscare need our support now more than ever before to help those most in need in our communities at this time of crisis.

Monthly Envelopes for September are now due, they may be dropped into the PDF Boxes in the Church or the post-box at the Coimin Centre. Many thanks to all who are making a special effort to return their envelopes this time it is greatly appreciated.

Eucharistic Adoration & Rosary will take place every Tuesday from 7pm to 8pm in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. If you are unable to come to the Church, you can join us via webcam on blessingtonparish.ie

Eco-Congregation Ireland recently awarded the Parishes of Blessington, Valleymount & Lacken an Eco-Awareness Certificate  for their efforts to promote sustainable living & bio-diversity in the parish. It is hoped to continue with this project in the coming months as we work together to promote Climate Justice.

COURSES IN YOUR LOCAL ETB THIS AUTUMN

Health Related Fitness Course Why not try something new this winter? This course will help you to: Develop an awareness of issues around health, fitness and physical activities Make personal choices about food and physical activity Understand stress and how to deal with it Maintain a healthy lifestyle This course will be run for one morning a week. Learn and have fun in a safe and friendly environment. All Covid-19 guidelines strictly adhered to. We also have courses available in Basic computers, English for speakers of other languages and Basic English. For further information on all the above please contact Annette at 086 846 2771 or 045 851 494.

GROW – Community Mental Health Programme

Tues 15^th Sept:            Understanding & Promoting Positive Mental Health

Tues 22^nd Sept:            The Power of Sleep

Tues 29^th Sept:            Boost Your Brain & Achieve Balance through Nutrition & Lifestyle

Tues 6^th Oct:                Understanding Trauma

Tues 13^th Oct:              Parenting Skills in Today’s World

Tues 20^th Oct:              Your Superpowers

Tues 3^rd Nov:               Mindfulness

Free Access via Zoom – 7.30pm – 9.00pm each evening. To Register For A Place Please Contact 6063184 or

Blessington Mini-Rugby returns outdoors for 4 and 5 year olds. Boys & girls welcome. K.O. 11:15am each Sat starting 5^th Sept at St Kevin’s Hall

Blessington Mini-Rugby U10-U13 boys and girls restarts on 8^th Sep, from 7pm to 8pm on GAA Astro

Searching for Spanish-English conversation exchange to improve pronunciation. +34687446322 danixa.montero@gmail.com

Anam Cara South Dublin is holding its monthly Parent Evening for bereaved parents on Mon 14^th Sept 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 whether their death was recent or not.

The Parish Office Opening Hours Monday to Friday from 9am to 12.30pm for Mass Bookings, Mass Cards, & Enquiries

Email: office@blessington.info Carol: 045 865 327 – 9am to 12.30pm Jean: 087 235 0835 – 9am to 5pm Please observe social distance, and use hand sanitiser when entering & leaving

St. Marys’ Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto Jackpot next week €2775 sign up for €2 per week on parish website

https://blessingtonparish.ie

Email us with your Community Group news: office@blessington.info

Memory Walk Campaign The Alzheimer Society of Ireland. Support the Memory Walk Campaign – Let’s Walk together for Dementia services on September 20^thin aid of the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland See the full details and registration at

https://alzheimer.ie/get-involved/fundraising-events/alzheimer-memory-walk/

BLESSINGTON LIBRARY NEWS

Blessington Library is Open Each Week Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 10am till 5 pm, Tuesday 1pm till 8.30 pm.  Our customers are welcome to come in, browse and borrow books.

Blessington Library  has now resumed the 6-day working week with late nights Tuesday and Thursday, for browse and borrow. We are observing social distancing & face coverings, & we are looking forward to seeing you.

NEWSLETTER ADS

Ruth Shine School of Dance Ballet, Modern, Contemporary and Acrobatic Arts Classes Ages 3 to Adult We pride ourselves on the beautiful, confident and happy dancers our students become! Join our dance community, based in our newly renovated, state of the art studio ‘DanceTrax Studios’ Contact Ruth on 086 406 2618, look us up on Instagram/Facebook or visit our website

www.ruthshineschoolofdance.com ‘Make Your Soul Shine!’

Furnished 1 Bed Cottage with conservatory &stunning lake views for rent in Lacken. Enquiries to 087 660 2140

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

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

Newsletter Advertising Rates For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Final cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office or by bank transfer. Office open from 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday and from 3pm to 4pm Monday to Thursday.

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

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

Happy Faces Pre School Blessington – Situated in the Further Education Centre (old Tech) is a fun, stimulating & welcoming environment with a curriculum focusing on the best care & education for your child. Our staff are highly trained within the childcare sector, child led & Montessori methods of learning & development, limited ECCE & part time places available for Sept 2020. Find us on Facebook or email us happyfaces@blessingtonfec.ie for more information

Naas Golf Driving Range is a flood-lit driving range open to all golfers. Open 7 days a week.  Located one mile from Sallins and one mile from Johnstown Garden Centre. 045 874489. All welcome.

Gardening- For Autumn Tidying, Hedge Clipping, Lawn Care, Beds Overhauled, Painting etc Phone Mark 085 133 7714

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

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

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

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

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

www.germanautoworks.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

St Vincent de Paul local number 087 181 1579

22^nd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME  30^th August 2020

All the laws, customs and regulations of religion have only one end: to love God and our neighbour. Jesus is adamant that love is at the heart of true religion.

Jesus was a man who knew his own mind. Our first reading describes a man certain of his mission in life even when putting it into practice and it looks ahead to Jesus. His conviction ‘wearied him’ and made a mockery of him. The gospel incident has the apostles upset, especially their leader Peter, at what was the mission of Jesus in death and resurrection. Following him would involve the same sort of dedication, even to carrying the cross. Finding a goal in life is a grace from God. We hope we have found a goal ourselves, something big enough to live for. We want to hand this on to our younger people. We receive hundreds of different messages about what makes for meaning and happiness in life we want to discern what brings true meaning.

A good guide is from Pope Francis, with echoes of St Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises: ‘God’s voice, instead, never promises cheap joy. It invites us to go beyond our ego to find that true good, peace.’

“God’s voice and the tempter’s speak in different “surroundings”. The enemy (of the goodness of our human nature) prefers darkness, falsehood, and gossip; the Lord loves sunlight, truth, and sincere transparency.” (May 3rd, 2020). Maybe we can watch this week for what brings an uplift of peace and joy in our lives and follow the pathways of this peace and joy. Your will be done, o Lord, on earth as it is in heaven. Donal Neary SJ, Editor Sacred Heart Messenger

Mass Intentions this Week – Colm Foxe, (Naas)

 Saturday 6pm: Peter McNabb (Mths Mind) Denis Toomey (A) Kathleen & Hubert Costello (A)

Sunday 10am:  Peter Whelan (A) Seamus Hayden (A)

 We also remember: Tommy McDonald(A) Alfie Zeller (A)

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

Tuesday: Frank O’Neill, Get Well Intentions, Special Living Intentions

Wednesday: Eugene Winters (A) The deceased members of the Ryan Family.

Thursday: Douglas Shirran (RD) Sean Dowling (A)

Friday: 1^st Friday … Mass offered for all those on the November List of the Dead

Congratulation to the girls and boys from St Joseph’s NS, Valleymount & St Mary’s SNS, Blessington who received the Sacrament of Confirmation this weekend

Thursday 3rd September –  There will be no Holy Hour / Benediction with Deacon Gerry.

Friday 4th September – 1st Friday of the Month. The Masses will be offered for all those whose names are on the Altar List of the Dead. The priests will visit the sick & housebound. If you would like a visit please contact the Parish Office, 045 865 327

Padre Pio Mass will take place at 8pm in Church of Our Lady, Blessington.

Adoration & Rosary will take place every Tuesday from 7pm to 8pm in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. If you are unable to come to the Church, you can join us via webcam on blessingtonparish.ie

Due to the extended Covid-19 Restrictions for Kildare, Crosschapel, Eadestown & Kilteel Churches will remain closed until further notice.

We don’t have missalettes at Mass at the moment but Fr Kevin’s Homilies are always available on our website:  https://blessingtonparish.ie/homilies-year-a/

St. Marys’ Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto Jackpot next week €2650 sign up for €2 per week on parish website https://blessingtonparish.ie

Lacken-Kilbride Juvenile GAA Club – SEEKING PLAYERS  for new Juvenile members from Under 7’s upwards (5 years old & upwards). Especially at Under 11’s, for boys & girls (players born in 2009, 2010 or 2011). And up to Under 14’s girls. Training is every Monday at 6.30pm in Kilbride & most Wednesday’s at 6.30pm. Any enquiries you can contact Diarmuid Haughian direct on 086 3113 443 or Joeann Gahan on 086 845 0247 or Donal Gahan on 087 979 2354. Or just turn up at training & speak to one of the coaches in order to get registered.  Everyone is welcome at all levels.

The Migraine Association of Ireland would like to invite you to join us on Wednesday 9^th September at 7 pm for an online seminar via Zoom with Dr Edward O’Sullivan – Director of the Migraine Clinic in CUH. We will be discussing: New Daily Persistent Headache, (NDPH) Pathophysiology, Management Treatments and Medication Overuse Headache (MOH) For you to gain the most from this event please email us your questions before the event to ensure they are discussed on the night. You can send your questions to us via info@migraine.ie or via Facebook and Twitter and they will be answered on the night. The event will take place via zoom and you must sign up for a place via Eventbrite through this link https://bit.ly/3iXasoN The login details for the event will be issued on the afternoon of 9^th September, only to those who have signed up for the event. 10% discount off Migraine Association Membership for those who live in West Wicklow, using code MAI-WW1. Valid until 30^th September. This talk has been made possible by a National Lottery Grant from HSE office in CHO 7 West Wicklow

Courses in the Further Education and Training Centre Blessington. Are you considering doing a course, changing your career? Do you need Guidance? Here at Blessington Further Education and Training Centre we provide a free, professional, impartial career guidance and information service to all adults. For further information on upcoming courses or changing your career please contact our Guidance Service, Irene Hayden on 086 806 1569 or irenehayden@kwetb.ie or contact Karen Townsend on 086 850 3833 or karentownsend@kwetb.ie

Cruthú Gallery at Russborough – Open Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays  from 12 noon. Our members have been very creative during the lockdown so we will start posting soon some exciting new art pieces that will be available for purchase. We look forward to seeing you soon and please remember to mind the social distancing rules. www.cruthu.ie or contact us at cruthuart@gmail.com

The Parish Office Opening Hours Monday to Friday 9am to 12.30pm for Mass Bookings, Mass Cards, & General Enquiries. Email: office@blessington.info Carol: 045 865 327 – 9am to 12.30pm – Jean: 087 235 0835 – 9am to 5pm. Please observe social distance & please use hand sanitiser when entering & leaving.

Email us with your Community Group news: office@blessington.info

NEWSLETTER ADS

Anna Nagle B.Ed, E.M.T.,Dip.l.T.EC.,P.T. COUNSELLING for CLARITY. Main St, Blessington. 087 227 3925

Ruth Shine School of Dance. Ballet, Modern, Contemporary and Acrobatic Arts Classes. Ages 3 to Adult. We pride ourselves on the beautiful, confident and happy dancers our students become! Join our dance community, based in our newly renovated, state of the art studio ‘DanceTrax Studios’ Contact Ruth on 086 406 2618, look us up on Instagram/Facebook or visit our website

www.ruthshineschoolofdance.com ‘Make Your Soul Shine!’

If Your Child Has A Diagnosis of Autism and requires an early intervention preschool, email: info@inspirecdc.ie in Naas

Cleaner Required for St. Mary’s Junior School Monday to Friday, from 3pm till 7:30pm Please contact Jelena 086 157 0143

Gardening- For Autumn, Tidying, Hedge Clipping, Lawn Care, Beds Overhauled, Painting etc Phone Mark 085 133 7714

BLESSINGTON LIBRARY NEWS

Blessington Library is Open Each Week, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 10am till 5 pm, Tuesday 1pm till 8.30 pm.  Our customers are welcome to come in, browse and borrow books.

Blessington Library has now resumed the 6-day working week with late nights Tuesday and Thursday,for browse and borrow. We are observing social distancing and face coverings, and we are looking forward to seeing you.

OFFICE CONTENTS to include – selection of sturdy desks, with or without returns & drawers, computer desks, solid mahogany dining table & 6 chairs, selection of seats & chairs, large & small shredders, printers, Panasonic KX-T7730 phone system with 7 extensions,filing cabinets with folders, notice boards, some old computers and other bits & pieces such as cd rack, staplers, etc., from as little as €1. Total clear-out everything must go!  087 290 7992.

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

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

Happy Faces Pre School Blessington Situated in the Further Education Centre (old Tech)is a fun, stimulating & welcoming environment with a curriculum focusing on the best care & education for your child. Our staff are highly trained within the childcare sector, child led & Montessori methods of learning & development, limited ECCE & part time places available for Sept 2020. Find us on Facebook or email us happyfaces@blessingtonfec.ie for more information

Affordable Live-in Homecare provides live-in carers for the elderly in your area. If you are looking for a live-in carer for your relative, please call Eileen or Tom today on 087 9916791 or 087 7440729. Our website is www.alhomecare.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

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

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

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

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

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. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office or by bank transfer. Office open from 9am to 12.30pm Monday to Friday

Saturday 15^th August, Feast of the Assumption Holy Day Mass at 10am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

20^th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 16^th August 2020

The gift of Jesus in the Eucharist is a promise of his company forever in heaven. We share in his life now, and after our death in a new and different way. This is the joy and certainty of our faith.

Somehow or other Jesus was surprised by the mother’s faith when she asked for her daughter to be healed. He said he had come at this point in time only for ‘the lost sheep of the house of Israel’, as if he had enough to do in dealing with them. Her persistence won her the attention of Jesus as he realised that she too had great faith. Can we say that Jesus was surprised by the mother? And that he changed his mind, and realised that the time had come for him to go to the Gentiles? Our first reading has God bringing foreigners to his mountain, welcoming them all to his house of prayer.

There is a lesson here for welcoming our migrants and refugees. Also, a message to look beyond what we see at first when we meet people. We change our minds when we hear a person’s story or know the difficulties and the joys of their life. We change our mind about groups of people when we hear their backgrounds and see what we have in common.

In his message for the World Day for the Sick (February, 2020) Pope Francis says “Christ’s words of solidarity, comfort and hope, are for the very many simple people, the poor, the sick, sinners, those who are marginalized by the burden of the law and the oppressive social system.” Lord may your kingdom of compassion and of hope come among us.

Donal Neary SJ, Editor Sacred Heart Messenger

Mass Intentions  this Week – Douglas Shirran (RD) Sandybanks

Saturday 6pm: Michael & Mary Dunne (A) Thomas & Lian Dunne (A) Maureen Dunne (A)

Sunday 10am: Christy Dempsey (A) Robert Kinsella (RD)

We also Remember the following: Christina O’Donnell

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

Tuesday: Peter McNabb (RD) Rita Flynn (RD)

Wednesday: Mary McGuinness (RD) Kay Ryan (RD)

Thursday: Wedding Anniversary Mass, Special Intentions, Thanksgiving Mass

Friday:  Ellen Tully (RD) Marie Farrell (RD)

Due to the extended Covid-19 Restrictions for Kildare, Crosschapel, Eadestown & Kilteel Churches will remain closed until further notice

Adoration & Rosary will take place every Tuesday from 7pm to 8pm in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. If you are unable to come to the Church, you can join us via webcam on blessingtonparish.ie

We don’t have missalettes at Mass at the moment but Fr Kevin’s Homilies are always available on our website:  https://blessingtonparish.ie/homilies-year-a/

Lacken-Kilbride Juvenile GAA Club – SEEKING PLAYERS for new Juvenile members from Under 7’s upwards (5 years old & upwards). Especially at Under 11’s, for boys & girls (players born in 2009, 2010 or 2011). And up to Under 14’s girls. Training is every Monday at 6.30pm in Kilbride & most Wednesday’s at 6.30pm. Any enquiries you can contact Diarmuid Haughian direct on 086 3113 443 or Joeann Gahan on 086 845 0247 or Donal Gahan on 087 979 2354. Or just turn up at training & speak to one of the coaches in order to get registered.  Everyone is welcome at all levels.

St. Marys’ Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto Jackpot next week €2575 sign up for €2 per week on parish website

St Vincent de Paul local number: 087 181 1579

A New Pilgrimage on Lough Derg’s Lakeshore – Walk & Pray in the Lough Derg Tradition on 16^th, 18^th, 22^nd, 26^th & 30^th August. At times in the 1600’s & 1700’s when Station Island was closed by the Penal Laws, pilgrims undertook a form of pilgrimage on the lough shore. Walk in their footsteps. Contact 071 9861518 or info@loughderg.org for details. Numbers limited.  Booking essential.

Saturday & Sunday Masses in Blessington- Due to the extended restrictions on numbers allowed to gather indoors we will continue to issue tickets for weekend Masses: 6pm Mass on Saturday & 10am Mass on Sunday in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Tickets must be collected in the Parish Office between 9am & 12.30pm Mon to Fri – 045 865 327

Courses in the Further Education and Training Centre Blessington. Are you considering doing a course, changing your career? Do you need Guidance? Here at Blessington Further Education and Training Centre we provide a free, professional, impartial career guidance and information service to all adults. For further information on upcoming courses or changing your career please contact our Guidance Service, Irene Hayden on 086 806 1569 or irenehayden@kwetb.ie or contact Karen Townsend on 086 850 3833 or karentownsend@kwetb.ie

Cruthú Gallery at Russborough – Open Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays  from 12 noon. Our members have been very creative during the lockdown so we will start posting soon some exciting new art pieces that will be available for purchase. We look forward to seeing you soon and please remember to mind the social distancing rules. www.cruthu.ie or contact us at cruthuart@gmail.com

The Parish Office Opening Hours Monday to Friday 9am to 12.30pm for Mass Bookings, Mass Cards, & General Enquiries. Email: office@blessington.info Carol: 045 865 327 – 9am to 12.30pm. Jean: 087 235 0835 – 9am to 5pm. Please observe social distance & please use hand sanitiser when entering & leaving

BEIRUT EMERGENCY APPEAL https://www.trocaire.org/

Monthly Envelopes for August are now due, they may be dropped into the PDF Boxes in the Church, the post-box or into Parish Office. Many thanks to all who are making a special effort to return their envelopes this time it is greatly appreciated.

This is an unprecedented time, it’s time for unprecedented kindness

NEWSLETTER ADS

OFFICE CONTENTS  to include – selection of sturdy desks, with or without returns & drawers, computer desks, solid mahogany dining table & 6 chairs, selection of seats & chairs, large & small shredders, printers, Panasonic KX-T7730 phone system with 7 extensions, filing cabinets with folders, notice boards, some old computers and other bits & pieces such as cd rack, staplers, etc., from as little as €1. Total clear-out everything must go!  087 290 7992.

CARETAKER Blessington Soccer Club Ref: CES 2152799 closing date August 24th

HANDYMAN VARIOUS PROJECTS Ref: CES 2152797 closing date August 17th

TOURIST OFFICE ASSISTANT Ref: 2152798 closing date August 24th For further information, please contact Martin Cahill on 045 891 348 or email on bessanddistce@gmail.com Please note the candidates must be in receipt of social welfare payment for at least 12 months.

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

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

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

Affordable Live-in Homecare provides live-in carers for the elderly in your area. If you are looking for a live-in carer for your relative, please call Eileen or Tom today on 087 9916791 or 087 7440729. Our website is www.alhomecare.ie

Happy Faces Pre School Blessington Situated in the Further Education Centre (old Tech) is a fun, stimulating & welcoming environment with a curriculum focusing on the best care & education for your child. Our staff are highly trained within the childcare sector, child led & Montessori methods of learning & development, limited ECCE & part time places available for Sept 2020. Find us on Facebook or email us happyfaces@blessingtonfec.ie for more information

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

Newsletter Advertising Rates For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Final cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office or by bank transfer. Office open from 9am to 12.30pm Monday to Friday

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

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

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

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

www.germanautoworks.ie

Wicklow Partnership on behalf of Wicklow Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) has asked The Entrepreneurs Academy to recruit & engage with 40 Wicklow Rural Youth members (age 18-35), with an interest in starting up a social enterprise or in early design stage. Our Social Enterprise Climb Programme is a 15 week part time course aimed to help participants develop practical entrepreneurial skills in Social Enterprise. Participants will explore and develop new or existing business ideas to determine their viability. In accordance with current government guidelines, the programme will take place on Zoom. The participants will be guided on a journey of enlightenment on all things entrepreneurial,covering everything they need to know from A – Z. The course itself comprises of the following:

– 8  boot camps on Saturdays.

– 7 weekday evening workshops that will take place on Wednesday/Thursday evenings.

– 8 participants will receive a complete bespoke website for their Organisation to help convey their vision & mission to all.

The flexible scheduling of the programme is designed to facilitate access to the programme to all eligible learners. Expressions of interest are being accepted here: https://entrepreneursacademy.ie/social-enterprise-climb/

BLESSINGTON LIBRARY NEWS

Blessington Library is Open Each Week Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 10am till 5 pm, Tuesday 1pm till 8.30 pm.  Our customers are welcome to come in, browse and borrow books.

Heritage Week is running from 15^th August until 23^rd and we are inviting children to take part in a Blessington Local Heritage Quiz, (prizes awarded) finding places of interest in the town

From Monday 24^th August we will resume our 6 day working week with late nights Tue and Thursday, again for browse and borrow. We are observing social distancing and face coverings, and we are looking forward to seeing you.