The Crosscare Annual Collection for Community, Homeless & Youth Services will take place in all churches this weekend 31^st Aug & 1st Sept.  Please help Crosscare to continue with their vital work in our parishes. Donors can also contribute online at www.crosscare.ie

Monday 2^nd September 2019

►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)

►Guided Prayer, Benediction & Music at 8pm in Lacken Church. Refreshments afterwards. All are welcome.

Tuesday 3^rd September 2019

►Citizens Information Centre in Blessington Library from 1pm to 4pm. Legal advice service on 1st & 3rd Tues of month by appointment

►Eucharistic Adoration from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Blessington Church.

Wednesday 4^th September 2019

►The Citizens Information Centre is open in Blessington Library today 10am to 12.30pm.

►The Rosary will be offered at 7.30pm for the intentions of our families in Blessington Church

Friday 6^th September 2019

►Bethany Bereavement Support Group are available in the Coimín Centre Blessington for caring confidential support from 10am to 11am

►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

►1^st Friday Mass in Manor Kilbride at 9am.

►1^st Friday Mass in Valleymount at 11.15am

►Coffee Morning in Lacken Community Centre from 10.30am to 12.30pm

►Padre Pio Mass at 8pm in Blessington.

Mass Intentions this Week

Saturday 6pm: Margaret Higgins (Mths Mind) Pat Hughes (1^st A) Denis Toomey (A)

Sunday 10am: Conor Earley (A) Katie Kelly (A) Mary-Anne Sargent (A)

We also Remember the following: Monica Mellin (A) Joseph O’Riordan (1^st A) Lillian D’Arcy (A) Eddie Conroy (RD)

Monday: Mass for those on the list for Sick

Tuesday: Barry O’Donnell (Rem) Thank You Mass

Wednesday: Tom, Phyllis & Roger Farrell (A) Deceased members of Kelly, Moran & Miller Families

Thursday: Susan Nolan (RD) Richard Moore (RD)

Friday: Mass for all on Altar List of the Dead

The Family of late Skaidrite Valdgeima would like to thank everyone for their kindness & support it means so much. Thank you to all our friends & neighbours for all your help & kindness we are so grateful to you all and also to all who attended the funeral Mass & sent Mass cards. Thank you to Fr. Paraic & Deacon Gerry Malone for Funeral Mass & all your support. Thanks to Lorraine and Paul for their beautiful singing. Huge thanks to all the Irish Dancers from Scoil Rince Ni Aogain, Sky’s Butterfly Family for doing guard of honour. A special thank you to Tony and Regina Clarke for all their kindness & for taking care of our beloved Skaidrite. A Mass will be offered for your intentions. Ivars, Simona, Samanta & Isabell

The Blessington Community First Responder Unit  will be holding their Annual Church Gate Collection next weekend, 7^th & 8^th September. All donations greatly appreciated. The Blessington Community First Responder Unit was setup in 2005. It is a 100% voluntary group providing near 24/7 quick response to a range of Respiratory and Cardiac related emergencies in Blessington and the surrounding towns within a 10K radius. Without the public’s support and the support of local businesses, this unit would simply not be able to continue. Every penny raised goes back into the unit for the good of our community

Visitation of the Sick: If there are any parishioners ill, at home or in hospital who would like a visit from a priest, please contact the Parish Office to let us know and to make arrangements 045 865 327

Rathmore Cemetery Clean-Up. A BIG thank-you to all who came on Sat 24^th. Great work was done! It was proposed that we continue the work each Saturday (Weather permitting) Thank you all

The Charity, “Touch Ireland” Supporting Vulnerable Children in “Our World” offer a sincere thank you to all who contributed to our recent Church Gate collection on 10^th/11^th August which raised € 545

Readers of the Word needed to join the Rota for 6pm or 10am Mass in Church of Our Lady Blessington. If you are a former reader in this Parish and would like to return or if you were a reader in another Parish and would like to be included, please contact the Parish Office: 045 865 327

A Date for your Diary A Week of Guided Prayer from 29th Sept to 5th October. This is a way of making a retreat in the midst of our busy day.  Everyone is welcome and encouraged to take part. The structure is simple. It begins on Sunday evening with a group introduction to the format of the week; some explanation of Praying with Scripture; some time in prayer together; meeting your personal guide; a chance to ask any questions…and share some light refreshments together!!  Each day you are asked to spend time in prayer and then come to the parish each day to talk about it with a trained Prayer Guide for half an hour. These one-to-one sessions run from Monday to Friday at a time convenient to you. The week ends with everyone coming together to share their experiences. Next weekend there will be speakers at all the Masses to further explain what is involved and who will also answer any queries you have about it.  Information leaflets and Registration Forms will also be distributed.

Car Boot Sale (Des Redmond Charities) in St. Kevin’s Hall Sunday 8^th September from 7am to 4pm. €10 per table, Free Car Park, Tea & Coffee. Pat Conlan 086 075 2072

Interest in a social cycle in Blessington?  Cycling Ireland community rides are gentle, social bike rides for adults, led by an experienced cyclist, followed by a coffee and chat. Register for free at www.axacommunitybikerides.com

Blessington Gaelic 4 Mothers & Others Team is looking for new members. Our training sessions are focused on building up fitness with a bit of football thrown in! If you fancy trying something different & meeting some new people, please come along on Tuesday at 7.30pm

Hollywood Walking Trail, meet every Tuesday at 6.45pm outside Tutty’s Pub. Great walks for the experienced walker & brief walks for those not the best “on their feet”. Please come along & join in.

Blessington Firefighters are holding a charity car wash at Blessington Fire Station on Saturday 31^st August from 10am to 5pm. Please come & support us to help raise vital funds for Aoibheann’s Pink Tie Charity. All Welcome

Line Dance Classes every Tuesday afternoon from 3pm to 4.15pm and on Thursday night from 7pm to 8.15pm. All welcome €7 per class in Manor Kilbride Hall. Classes resume on Tuesday 3^rd and Thursday 5^th September.

Foroige Youth Club starts back on Friday 6^th September in St Joseph’s Hall. Register now online & we will be in touch ASAP http://tiny.cc/kbfhbz Volunteers needed, if interested please email: foroigeblessington@gmail.com

Do you enjoy movement? We are looking for people interested in taking part in a community dance project as part of the Ninette de Valois festival. No dance experience required. All ages (8-80 and beyond!), genders, shapes & sizes are welcome. ruthshineschoolofdance1@gmail.com

Summer Stars ‘Magic Show’ at the Library Blessington, the annual magic show with Joe Daly takes place this year in the library on 31^st Aug 11am & all participants in the Summer Stars programme are invited to come along. Children will be presented with their certificates & medals, if you can’t make it to the magic show, please drop into the library anytime to collect them. This summer over 500 children have read over 2,500 books between them!

New West Wicklow Support Group GROW Community Mental Health Support Group meets every Wed at 7.30pm in Camphill, Dunlavin. (from Wed 4^th Sept) Come & learn more about positive mental health, wellbeing, recovery & how GROW may help you achieve this. Free, all welcome. for further info: John 086 803 3126  or www.grow.ie.

Happy Faces Community Playgroup enrolling for Sept 2019, we offer ECCE & part time places, at Happy Faces we support & encourage young children through a planned play-based curriculum, to grow into independent little people, who have a love for life & learning call: 085 128 1605, email happyfaces@blessingtonfec.ie or Facebook

Community Pool for West Wicklow are raffling a framed, signed Dublin jersey! Tickets €10 and can be purchased at https://tinyurl.com/CPWWDubJerseyRaffle A maximum of 200 tickets will be sold. The winner will be notified by email. Payments are processed by PayPal. Draw will he held when all 200 tickets are sold. All monies raised will go towards a pool for West Wicklow. For more info, email: poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com

Dear Lord, so far today I’m doing alright.

I have not gossiped, lost my temper, been greedy, grumpy, nasty or selfish

I have not moaned, complained, cursed or eaten any chocolate.

I haven’t charged anything to my credit card….

But I will be getting out of bed in a minute, and I think that I will really need your help then!!

The Irish Wheelchair Association are holding a Church Gate Collection next weekend, 24^th and 25^th Aug at all Masses. They are depending on local volunteers to collect on the day. If you are available to help, please contact Jacqui on 086-1284124 or email Jacqui.oconnor@iwa.ie

Sunday 18^th August 2019

►Valleymount Country from 10am to 3pm in Valleymount Hall

►Monthly Envelopes for August are due. We would appreciate it if they are left in the Church at Mass or dropped into the Parish Office any morning. Many thanks contributors & collectors for your continued support.

Tuesday 20^th August 2019

►Citizens Information Centre will be closed for the month of August. Reopening on Tuesday, 3rd September. Queries can be made to 0761 07 4000 Mon-Fri 9am-8pm.

►Eucharistic Adoration from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Blessington Church.

Wednesday 21^st August 2019

►Citizens Information Centre will be closed for the month of August. Reopening on Tuesday, 3rd September. Queries can be made to 0761 07 4000 Mon-Fri 9am-8pm.

►The Rosary will be offered at 7.30pm for the intentions of our families in Blessington Church

►The Irish Blood Transfusion Service Board’s Mobile Unit will be at the Community College Blessington from 5pm to 8.30pm. 3000 units are needed overall each week & donors are especially needed at this time of the year.

Sunday 25^th August 2019

►Cemetery Mass Baltyboys at 12 noon. PLEASE NOTE: there will be no 11.15am Mass in Valleymount that day.

Mass Intentions this Week

Sheila Zeller (RD)

Saturday 6pm: Hugh Collins (RD) Una Sweeney (RD)

Sunday 10am: Johnny Brown (A) Stephen Lunders (A)

We also Remember the following: Cora Stoodley (A) Christy Dempsey (Rem) Martin & Nora Murphy (A) Gabriel & Seamus Murphy (A) Lillian D’Arcy (A) Sheila Roche (A) Margaret & Bernard Lynch (A)

Monday: Mass for those on the list for Sick

Tuesday: Kitty Murphy (RD)  Pat Kavanagh (A)

Wednesday: Noreen Moran (RD Barry O’Donnell (Rem)

Thursday: Cora Stoodley (A) Mick & Teresa Byrne (A) Bill O’Kelly (A) Thomas & Dora Byrne (A) Phyllis Wynne (A)

Friday: Blessington Deceased Mass Card List

The Tea Room at the Coimin Centre will close for staff holidays from Tuesday 20^th August for two weeks. We will re-open on Tuesday 3^rd September. Tea Room Public Opening Hours will then be as follows: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday from 9am to 12 noon. TEA, COFFEE AND LIGHT REFRESHMENTS. All proceeds towards the running of the Coimin Centre. Thank you for your support.

Visitation of the Sick: If there are any parishioners ill, at home or in hospital who would like a visit from a priest, please contact the Parish Office to let us know and to make arrangements 045 865 327

“West Wicklow Cancer Support, Weekly Meditation with essential oils hosted by Gemma Deeney continues Wednesdays 11.30am at the Primary Care Centre Blessington. Info: 087 4346004 or westwicklow15@gmail.com Just come along & do bring a friend. “The best cure for the body is a quiet mind”

Email your Community Group News to office@blessington.info

A Date for your Diary – A Week of Guided Prayer from 29^th Sept to 5^th October. During this week of Guided Prayer, you will have the opportunity to meet a prayer guide on a daily basis who will help to direct and deepen your prayer life. This week is also time where we will encourage a spirit of prayer in which everyone can participate.

Attention Calling all who have relatives in Rathmore Graveyard. A volunteer clean-up day has been arranged for Saturday 24^th Aug from 11am onwards. This is to coincide with National Heritage Week, bring a strimmer rake or fork, we are hoping for a big turn out on the day. Bernie Phibbs

Local St Vincent de Paul 087 181 1579

Dance in Hollywood Community Centre on Saturday 17^th August. Dancing 9pm to 12 midnight. Music by Jimmy Hynes & the Crusaders. Adm: €10 Students €5. Refreshments included

The Community Pool for West Wicklow Campaign is a year old and we are having a PARTY! Come help us celebrate in the Hippodrome at Russborough House on August 17th from 1pm to 4pm. This is a FREE family event to thank the people of West Wicklow for your support. We’ll have face painting, music with East Coast FM, dancing, games with Wicklow Local Sports Partnership, water safety tips from Water Safety Ireland and of course cake!

“Ceiliuradh a Celtic Miscellany” – an acoustic, candlelit celebration of song & music hosted by Blessington Comhaltas in St. Kevin’s Church, Hollywood, Co. Wicklow on Saturday 24^th August at 8pm. Phil Callery of The Voice Squad – Maca (Anúna & Riverdance) – Ger Fitzgerald, Bean an Sean Nos – Ninette De Valois Ballet, Ruth Shine Dance Troupe, Fear an Tí, Paddy Gleeson. A Heritage Week Celebration, further info: Pat Conlan: 086 075 2072. Free Event….Bigi Linn…..Please Support.

Do you enjoy movement? We are looking for people interested in taking part in a community dance project as part of the Ninette de Valois festival. No dance experience required. All ages (8-80 and beyond!), genders, shapes and sizes are welcome. Email Ruth if you are interested ruthshineschoolofdance1@gmail.com

View photos of recent events in Valleymount parish at www.valleymountparish.ie

Line Dance Classes every Tuesday afternoon from 3pm to 4.15pm and on Thursday night from 7pm to 8.15pm. All welcome €7 per class in Manor Kilbride Hall

West Wicklow Cancer Support in conjunction with our East Coast FM Coffee morning fundraiser have a signed GAA Dublin All Ireland Champions jersey for auction! Possibly the most successful Dublin Team of all time. If you would like to own this splendid piece of memorabilia, please call/email: 087 4346004 or westwicklow15@gmail.com

Interest in a social cycle in Blessington?  Cycling Ireland community rides are gentle, social bike rides for adults, led by an experienced cyclist, followed by a coffee and chat. Register for free at www.axacommunitybikerides.com

Under 13’s Girls Soccer – Blessington AFC are looking for girls born in 2007/2008 to join a new team for the coming season. Playing season commences in September. If you are interested, please contact David on 086 8574213

Under 16’s Soccer – Blessington AFC are looking for players born in 2004 to join a new team for the coming season. Playing season commences in September. If you are interested, please contact John on 085 7122895

Happy Faces Community Playgroup are now enrolling for September 2019, we offer ECCE & part time places, at Happy Faces we support & encourage young children through a planned play-based curriculum, to grow into independent little people, who have a love for life & learning, enquires please phone 085 128 1605  alternatively email happyfaces@blessingtonfec.ie  Find us on Facebook.

Blessington AFC have a number of spaces on our squads for new players born in 2007 to join our teams for the coming season. Playing season commences in September. If you are interested, please contact Lar on 086 701 4949

Blessington Gaelic 4 Mothers & Others Team is looking for new members. Our training sessions are focused on building up fitness with a bit of football thrown in! If you fancy trying something different & meeting some new people, please come along on Tuesday at 7.30pm

Hollywood Walking Trail, meet every Tuesday at 6.45pm outside Tutty’s Pub. Great walks for the experienced walker & brief walks for those not the best “on their feet”. Please come along & join in.

8th Wicklow Blessington Scout Group APPEAL FOR NEW LEADERS FOR OUR BEAVER SECTION. We are a parent run organization, now is the time to join up, if we don’t get parents to join, we will not be in a position to take on any new children. Benefits of becoming a leader; your number one priority in scouts becomes FUN. You learn new skills. Your children will bypass the waiting list and secure a place. If you are interested, please contact Tristan Geoghegan (086) 780 2938.

“TOUCH” Supporting Vulnerable children in “Our World”  are holding a Church Gate Collection next weekend 10^th and 11^th August at all Masses All the money raised will go towards the building of a new hospital for children with mental health problems in Kathmandu, Nepal. Please Support.

Monday 5^th August 2019

►Bank Holiday Mass at 11am in Blessington

►Guided Prayer, Benediction & Music at 8pm in Lacken Church. All are welcome.

Tuesday 6^th August 2019

►Citizens Information Centre in Blessington Library from 1pm to 4pm. Legal advice service on 1st & 3rd Tues of month by appointment

►Eucharistic Adoration from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Blessington Church.

Wednesday 7^th August 2019

►The Citizens Information Centre is open in Blessington Library today 10am to 12.30pm.

►The Rosary will be offered at 7.30pm for the intentions of our families in Blessington Church

Mass Intentions this Week

Margaret Higgin (RD) Maureen Kenny (RD)

Saturday 6pm: John McNamara (Mths Mind) and his parents Joseph & Josephine McNamara (A) Peter Cummins (A), Charlie & Molly Keogh (A)

Sunday 10am: Edward Conroy (Mths Mind) Marie Clegg (Mths Mind)

We also Remember the following:

Monday: Mass for those on the list for Sick

Tuesday: Barry O’Donnell (Rem) Teresa Dunne (RD)

Wednesday: Frank O’Neill (1^st A) Maureen Kenny (RD)

Thursday: Get Well, Get Well

Friday: Thanksgiving Mass, Birthday Rem

Local St Vincent de Paul  087 181 1579

Newsletter Advertising Rates For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Final cut-off for receiving adverts is Wednesday 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 (subject to availability of volunteers)

Many thanks to Deirdre Keogh for her very generous donation to the Coimin Centre Blessington, from her fundraising for the Women’s Mini-Marathon recently. It is greatly appreciated and will be put to very good use in the running of the Coimin Centre.

Visitation of the Sick: If there are any parishioners ill, at home or in hospital who would like a visit from a priest, please contact the Parish Office to let us know and to make arrangements 045 865 327

“West Wicklow Cancer Support, Blessington & District Forum’s Community Group of the Year 2019” Weekly Meditation with essential oils hosted by Gemma Deeney continues Wednesdays 11.30am at the Primary Care Centre Blessington. Contact us on 087 4346004 or westwicklow15@gmail.com should you wish to book a place or just come along and do bring a friend. “The best cure for the body is a quiet mind”

Lough Derg: Final dates for this summer’s pilgrimages to Lough Derg takes place from the  9 – 11 August (season ends on 15 august) – direct from Dublin cost is €115 pensioners and students €105.  To book please phone: 086 3853027 or 01 4941171.

View photos of recent events in Valleymount parish at www.valleymountparish.ie Email your Community Group News to office@blessington.info

The winners of the July Draw in aid of Valleymount Church Renovation fund are Ita & Jim Hill, Jenny & Glen Cullen, Fr Richard Behan, Ann Mc Donald, Fiona Shannon. Each received €100

Cemetery Mass Baltyboys Sun 25^th August at 12 noon.

Interest in a social cycle in Blessington?  Cycling Ireland community rides are gentle, social bike rides for adults, led by an experienced cyclist, followed by a coffee and chat.  Register for free at www.axacommunitybikerides.com

Under 13’s Girls Soccer – Blessington AFC are looking for girls born in 2007/2008 to join a new team for the coming season. Playing season commences in September. If you are interested, please contact David on 086 8574213

Under 16’s Soccer – Blessington AFC are looking for players born in 2004 to join a new team for the coming season. Playing season commences in September. If you are interested, please contact John on 085 7122895

Try Sailing at BLSC this Summer. With courses for children aged 6 to 18 years of all abilities, choose Blessington Sailing Club for your child’s Summer adventure. For booking and more info, please email Alex at alextpocock@gmail.com, or find us on Facebook.

Happy Faces Community Playgroup are now enrolling for September 2019, we offer ECCE & part time places, at Happy Faces we support & encourage young children through a planned play-based curriculum, to grow into independent little people, who have a love for life & learning, enquires please phone 085 128 1605  alternatively email happyfaces@blessingtonfec.ie  Find us on Facebook.

Blessington AFC have a number of spaces on our squads for new players born in 2007 to join our teams for the coming season. Playing season commences in September. If you are interested, please contact Lar on 086 701 4949

Blessington Gaelic 4 Mothers & Others Team is looking for new members. Our training sessions are focused on building up fitness with a bit of football thrown in! If you fancy trying something different & meeting some new people, please come along on Tuesday at 7.30pm

Hollywood Walking Trail, meet every Tuesday at 6.45pm outside Tutty’s Pub. Great walks for the experienced walker & brief walks for those not the best “on their feet”. Please come along & join in.

Do you enjoy movement? We are looking for people interested in taking part in a community dance project as part of the Ninette de Valois festival. No dance experience required. All ages (8-80 and beyond!), genders, shapes and sizes are welcome. Email Ruth if you are interested ruthshineschoolofdance1@gmail.com

View photos of recent events in Valleymount parish at www.valleymountparish.ie

Car Boot Sale (Des Redmond Charities) in St. Kevin’s Hall Sunday 11^th August from 7am to 4pm. €10 per table, Free Car Park, Tea & Coffee. Pat Conlan 086 075 2072

The Community Pool for West Wicklow Campaign is a year old and we are having a PARTY! Come help us celebrate in the Hippodrome at Russborough House on August 17th from 1pm to 4pm. This is a FREE family event to thank the people of West Wicklow for your support. We’ll have face painting, music with East Coast FM, dancing, games with Wicklow Local Sports Partnership, water safety tips from Water Safety Ireland and of course cake!

Computers for the Terrified! 1 to 1 training for over 55’s Are you frustrated by your lack of computer skills?Do you feel that the digital age has passed you by? Are you confused by well-meaning family instruction (i.e. no patience with you!) LEARN HOW TO: Search the Internet Send & Receive Emails Shop and Book Flights Use your own device or use computers available at some venues Age Action runs beginner courses in Computers, iPads and Tablets for older people who have little or no experience or for the absolutely terrified! Courses run once a week for 5 or 6 weeks ALL COURSES ARE FREE OF CHARGE Classes will be held in Blessington Library For more information about the course or if you would like to become a volunteer phone (01) 475 6989

Lough Derg 3-Day Pilgrimages 9th to 11th August (dep 8am from Parnell Square, Dublin) €115 per adult €105 per student & pensioner. Info & booking Miriam (St Oliver Plunkett) after 6pm 086 385 3027 or 01 4941171

8th Wicklow Blessington Scout Group APPEAL FOR NEW LEADERS FOR OUR BEAVER SECTION. We are a parent run organization, now is the time to join up, if we don’t get parents to join, we will not be in a position to take on any new children. Benefits of becoming a leader; your number one priority in scouts becomes FUN. You learn new skills. Your children will bypass the waiting list and secure a place. If you are interested, please contact Tristan Geoghegan (086) 780 2938.

MAKE SOMEONE LAUGH

Is there a better sound in the world?

Tell a joke or a funny story … whatever it takes…

You’ve brightened someone’s day for just a minute, and in doing so have brightened your own!!

Monday 22^nd July 2019

►Blessington Parish – OPEN INVITATION

We invite you to a gathering in the Coimín Centre at 8pm. The Parish Finance Committee will give a short presentation of 2018 Accounts.

Tuesday 23^rd July 2019

►Citizens Information Centre in Blessington Library from 1pm to 4pm. Legal advice service on 1st & 3rd Tues of month by appointment

►Eucharistic Adoration from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Blessington Church.

Wednesday 24^th July 2019

►Organist Judit Máté & Baritone Gyula Nagy will give a free recital in Church of Our Lady Blessington on at 11am, all welcome

►The Citizens Information Centre is open in Blessington Library today 10am to 12.30pm.

►The Rosary will be offered at 7.30pm for the intentions of our families in Blessington Church

►Christian Meditation Group in the Mass Centre in Brittas is taking a break until September, Many thanks to all who have been attending.

Mass Intentions this Week

Claire Osborne Murphy

Saturday 6pm: Ellen O’Halloran (A)

Stella Carrigan (RD)

Sunday 10am Alan Clarke (A)

Mary Creighton (A)

We also Remember the following:

John & Mary-Ann Gallagher,

David McEvoy (1^st A) Theresa Doyle (A)

Monday: Mass for those on the list for Sick

Tuesday: Get Well, Get Well

Wednesday: Michael Kennedy (RD) John McNamara (RD)

Thursday: Mairead Hudson (RD)

Skaidrite Valdgeima (RD)

Friday: Blessington Deceased Mass Card List

Blessington Parish Finance Committee would like to thank all who are supporting the Parish Neighbourhood Collection & the Parish Development Fund Boxes (PDF boxes) in Church of Our Lady. The money raised through the Neighbourhood Collection & the PDF boxes stays in the parish so, by your contributions you are supporting your local parish & we are most grateful. If you have ANNUAL Envelopes & MONTHLY Envelopes that have not been collected, please drop them into the Parish Office or into one of the collection bags at Mass on Sunday.

“West Wicklow Cancer Support, Blessington & District Forum’s Community Group of the Year 2019” Weekly Mediation with essential oils hosted by Gemma Deeney continues Wednesdays 11.30am at the Primary Care Centre Blessington. Contact us on 087 4346004 or westwicklow15@gmail.com should you wish to book a place or just come along and do bring a friend. “The best cure for the body is a quiet mind”

Are you interested in allotments in Blessington? The next public meeting to discuss the provision of allotments in the Blessington area will be held on Thursday 1^st Aug 7pm, in Blessington Library. All welcome see: blessingtonallotments@gmail.com for any additional information.

Valleymount Country Market. Sun 28^th July from 10am to 3pm.

Cemetery Mass Baltyboys Sun 25^th Aug at 12 noon.

National Tidy Towns judging will take place from June 8^th to August 4^th this year. We are judged under several categories & the appearance & upkeep of our main street, approach roads, all our estates & business premises are a major factor in the results & ability to gain extra marks. Everyone can help, by ensuring Blessington is litter free & looking it’s best, as together we can make a difference. Many thanks for all your effort.

Visitation of the Sick: If there are any parishioners ill, at home or in hospital who would like a visit from a priest, please contact the Parish Office to let us know and to make arrangements 045 865 327

Local St Vincent de Paul – 087 181 1579

Thank you to all who supported “A Beautiful Celebration of Music” Charity Concert in the Moat Theatre, Naas, proudly supporting Make A Wish & Irish Cancer Society. A total of €3577 was raised on the night. A wonderful evening was had by all.

West Wicklow Cancer Support – There will be no last Thursday of the month Drop in meeting in July or August. Information services are available each Wednesday in the Primary Care Centre Blessington 10.30am – 12.30pm. Info 087 434 6004 westwicklow15@gmail.com

“The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it”

Abbey Mass & Family Festival: Wicklow Parish will host their annual outdoor Mass in the Abbey Grounds in Wicklow Town on Sunday 21^st July at 11.30am followed by refreshments. The Family Fun Festival will begin at 1.00pm & finish in the evening time around 6.00pm. Bring along a family picnic or enjoy the food stalls on the day as well as free activities for every family member to enjoy such as; scavenger hunt, face-painting, garden games, hip-hop dancers, line/set dancing and live music along with local artists.  It’s going to be great – see you there!

Try Sailing at BLSC this Summer. With courses for children aged 6 to 18 years of all abilities, choose Blessington Sailing Club for your child’s Summer adventure. For booking and more info, please email Alex at alextpocock@gmail.com, or find us on Facebook.

Hollywood Friendship Club are taking a well-earned break for a few weeks.

Happy Faces Community Playgroup are now enrolling for September 2019, we offer ECCE & part time places, at Happy Faces we support & encourage young children through a planned play-based curriculum, to grow into independent little people, who have a love for life & learning, enquires please phone 085 128 1605  alternatively email happyfaces@blessingtonfec.ie  Find us on Facebook.

Blessington AFC have a number of spaces on our squads for new players born in 2007 to join our teams for the coming season. Playing season commences in September. If you are interested, please contact Lar on 086 701 4949

Volunteer Tutors needed to help at Computer Classes for over 55s in Blessington Age Action is running basic computer classes for older people, in Blessington Library, and we need volunteer tutors to assist our older learners, on a one-to-one basis. Class sizes are small, with one volunteer tutor for every learner. Classes are held in the library once a week, for two hours, usually in the afternoon, over a five-week course. Next classes are due to start in September. Basic computer skills and an interest in working with older people are needed, but patience, and a good sense of humour, are just as important! Training will be provided. For more information, please email gsvolunteer@ageaction.ie or phone 01 4756989.

You don’t need a reason to help people….

8th Wicklow Blessington Scout Group APPEAL FOR NEW LEADERS FOR OUR BEAVER SECTION. We are a parent run organization, now is the time to join up, if we don’t get parents to join, we will not be in a position to take on any new children. Benefits of becoming a leader; your number one priority in scouts becomes FUN. You learn new skills. Your children will bypass the waiting list and secure a place. If you are interested, please contact Tristan Geoghegan (086) 780 293

The Old Bog Road. An evening of music, song, tales. Valleymount Community Hall. Fri 19^th July at 8pm. Adm €10. Raffle & refreshments on the night.

Dinner and Dance in Hollywood Centre on Sat 20th July, 3-Course Meal served at 8pm. Dancing from 9.30pm. Music by The Wicklow Man. Adm €20. A great night is assured. “It’s a great start for The Fair”. You will be most Pre-50’s Dress Code if you wish but dress attire is your own choice. Come along & enjoy a fab night.The Launch of The Hollywood Fair Book will take place on the night .

Blessington Gaelic 4 Mothers & Others Team is looking for new members. Our training sessions are focused on building up fitness with a bit of football thrown in! If you fancy trying something different & meeting some new people, please come along on Tuesday at 7.30pm

Lough Derg 3-Day Pilgrimages 9th to 11th August (dep 8am from Parnell Square, Dublin) €115 per adult €105 per student & pensioner. Info & booking Miriam (St Oliver Plunkett) after 6pm 086 385 3027 or 01 4941171

Blessington Bingo Every Wednesday at 8.15pm in the Avon (Avon Ri) Great Prizes, Extra Raffle Prizes Shuttle Bus €2 return. Information: Jess: 086 860 2822 or Catherine 087 122 4019

Hollywood Senior Citizens had their Annual Outing last Wednesday to Rathfarnham Castle with Lunch at Castle Restaurant & Dinner in Hollywood Inn. A great day was had by all & the food was scrumptious!

Hollywood Walking Trail, meet every Tuesday at 6.45pm outside Tutty’s Pub. Great walks for the experienced walker & brief walks for those not the best “on their feet”. Please come along & join in.

Computers for the Terrified! 1 to 1 training for over 55’s Are you frustrated by your lack of computer skills? Do you feel that the digital age has passed you by? Are you confused by well-meaning family instruction (i.e. no patience with you!) LEARN HOW TO: Search the Internet Send & Receive Emails. Shop and Book Flights. Use your own device or use computers available at some venues Age Action runs beginner courses in Computers, iPads and Tablets for older people who have little or no experience or for the absolutely terrified! Courses run once a week for 5 or 6 weeks ALL COURSES ARE FREE OF CHARGE Classes will be held in Blessington Library For more information about the course or if you would like to become a volunteer phone (01) 475 6989

Life is too short…

Laugh when you can,

apologise when you should and let go of what you can’t change

Community Games Church Gate Collection at all Masses this weekend 6^th & 7^th July

Saturday 6^th July 2019

►PLEASE NOTE: there will be no evening Mass in Lacken Church on Saturday 6^th July due to Cemetery Sunday Templeboden at 3pm. on Sunday 7^th July

Sunday 7^th July 2019

►Cemetery Sunday Templeboden at 3pm.

PLEASE NOTE: there will be no evening Mass in Lacken Church on Saturday 6^th July

Monday 8^th July 2019

►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass. (ex Bank Holidays)

Tuesday 9^th July 2019

►Citizens Information Centre in Blessington Library from 1pm to 4pm. Legal advice service on 1st & 3rd Tues of month by appointment

►Eucharistic Adoration from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Blessington Church.

Wednesday 10^th July 2019

►The Citizens Information Centre is open in Blessington Library today 10am to 12.30pm.

►The Rosary will be offered at 7.30pm for the intentions of our families in Blessington Church

►Christian Meditation Group meet in the Mass Centre in Brittas from 11am. All welcome

►Bethany Bereavement Support group available for caring confidential support from 8pm to 9pm no appointment necessary.

Mass Intentions this Week

Michael Kennedy (RD) Skaidrite Valdgeima (RD) John McNamara (RD)

Saturday 6pm John Geoghegan (A) Peter O’Donovan (RD)

Sunday 10am Tom Canning, Sheila Vaughan (RD)

We also Remember the following:

James Reid (A) Ray O’Donnell (A) Elizabeth (Lil) Clarke, Tony Doyle, James Reid, John Curran (A)

Monday: Mass for those on the list for Sick

Tuesday: John & Nora Mora, David Cranny (A)

Wednesday: Special Int, Special Int

Thursday: Mary Corbett (RD)

Paddy Dowling (RD)

Friday: Birthday Int, Special Int

Blessington Parish OPEN INVITATION We invite you to a gathering in the Coimín Centre on Monday 22^nd July at 8pm The Parish Finance Committee will give a short presentation of 2018 Accounts.

Blessington Parish Finance Committee would like to thank all who are supporting the Parish Neighbourhood Collection & the Parish Development Fund Boxes (PDF boxes) in Church of Our Lady. The money raised through the Neighbourhood Collection & the PDF boxes stays in the parish so, by your contributions you are supporting your local parish & we are most grateful. If you have ANNUAL Envelopes & MONTHLY Envelopes that have not been collected, please drop them into the Parish Office or into one of the collection bags at Mass on Sunday.

June Winners of the draw in aid of Valleymount Church Renovation fund: Angela & John Richardson, Margaret & Mattie Brown, Sadie & Seamus Miley, Rose Zeller, Maura & Brendan Hughes. Each received €100.

National Tidy Towns judging will take place from June 8^th to August 4^th this year. We are judged under several categories & the appearance & upkeep of our main street, approach roads, all our estates & business premises are a major factor in the results & ability to gain extra marks. Everyone can help, by ensuring Blessington is litter free & looking it’s best, as together we can make a difference. Many thanks for all your effort.

Visitation of the Sick: If there are any parishioners ill, at home or in hospital who would like a visit from a priest, please contact the Parish Office to let us know and to make arrangements 045 865 327

Cemetery Sunday Baltyboys Sunday 25^th August at 12 noon. There will be no 11.15 Mass in Valleymount

Are you interested in allotments in Blessington? The next public meeting to discuss the provision of allotments in the Blessington area will be held on Thursday 1st August, 7pm, in Blessington Library. All welcome. Please contact blessingtonallotments@gmail.com for any additional information.

Valleymount Heritage Weekend. A special word of thanks to all who helped to make the Heritage weekend a memorable event in the life of our parish. To all who volunteered their time to renovate the stage in preparation for the wonderful production of A Midsummer’s Night Dream, to those who directed & took part in the play & to all who supported & bought lines for the raffle. Your goodwill & generosity is much appreciated.

OPEN DAY Sunday 14^th July at 1pm. Come to our OPEN DAY at Kildare Animal Foundation, South Green Road, Kildare Town to celebrate 25 years of caring for sick & injured animals. Something for all the family; Plants, Antiques, Face-painting, Bottle stall, Kiddies games, Barbeque, Crafts & much more. FREE ADMISSION (NO dogs allowed as we have plenty of animals on site to be seen) A lovely day out in the midst of our beautiful rescue animals.

8th Wicklow Blessington Scout Group APPEAL FOR NEW LEADERS FOR OUR BEAVER SECTION. We are a parent run organization, now is the time to join up, if we don’t get parents to join, we will not be in a position to take on any new children. Benefits of becoming a leader; your number one priority in scouts becomes FUN. You learn new skills. Your children will bypass the waiting list and secure a place. If you are interested, please contact Tristan Geoghegan (086) 780 2938.

Blessington GAA Club Golf Classic on Friday 12^th July in Craddockstown Golf Club. Cost is €300 for a team of 4 including the round of golf, dinner & plenty of prizes!! The day promises lots of fun, during and after!! Book now to ensure your preferred tee time by contacting one of the following: Arthur Hennessy 087 239 6157, Emer McIntyre Reape 087 226 2286, John Williamson 086 825 6556

Happy Faces Community Playgroup are now enrolling for September 2019, we offer ECCE & part time places, at Happy Faces we support & encourage young children through a planned play-based curriculum, to grow into independent little people, who have a love for life & learning, enquires please phone 085 128 1605  alternatively email happyfaces@blessingtonfec.ie  Find us on Facebook.

Richard Cowley’s Garden Open Day in aid of Cara Girls Rescue Centre, Kenya on Saturday 13^th July from 11am to 4pm in Horsepasstown, Ballymore Eustace, Co. Kildare W 91 C2P3. €5 entry to include tea/coffee and cake.

Try Sailing at BLSC this Summer. With courses for children aged 6 to 18 years of all abilities, choose Blessington Sailing Club for your child’s Summer adventure. For booking and more info, please email Alex at alextpocock@gmail.com, or find us on Facebook.

Blessington Gaelic 4 Mothers & Others Team is looking for new members. Our training sessions are focused on building up fitness with a bit of football thrown in! If you fancy trying something different & meeting some new people, please come along on Tuesday at 7.30pm

Hollywood Annual Sports Day on Sunday 14th July in GAA Field, Athletic Events, Dog Show, Side Shows, Produce Stall, Raffle, Fun & Games for all. Refreshments served. More details nearer the date.

Blessington AFC have a number of spaces on our squads for new players born in 2007 to join our teams for the coming season. Playing season commences in September. If you are interested please contact Lar on 086 701 4949

Car Boot Sale (Des Redmond Charities) in St. Kevin’s Hall Sunday 14^th July from 7am to 4pm. €10 per table, Free Car Park, Tea & Coffee. Pat Conlan 086 075 2072

Holiday Camp with Blessington Fencing Club from Monday 8^th July to Friday 12^th July 9am to 1pm. Cost is €100 for Club members and €120 for non-members. Call to book 087 676 4183

Hollywood Friendship Club every Wed from 2.15pm to 4.15pm. New members always welcome.

Date For your Diary – Supper/Dance in Hollywood Centre on Saturday 20^th July. Food Served at 8pm. Dancing until Midnight, music by THE WICKLOW MAN.  Adm €20. This is the Senior Citizens/ Friendship Clubs contribution to The Fair. Great night assured

Lough Derg 3-Day Pilgrimages

5th to 7th July (dep 8am from Parnell Square, Dublin)

9th to 11th August (dep 8am from Parnell Square, Dublin)

€115 per adult €105 per student & pensioner.

Info & booking Miriam (St Oliver Plunkett) after 6pm

086 385 3027 or 01 4941171

Blessington Bingo Every Wednesday at 8.15pm in the Avon (Avon Ri) Great Prizes, Extra Raffle Prizes Shuttle Bus €2 return. Information: Jess: 086 860 2822 or Catherine 087 122 4019

Local St Vincent de Paul – 087 181 1579

Take my hand O Blessed Mother

Hold me firmly lest I fall.

I am nervous when I’m walking

And on thee I humbly call.

Guide me over every crossing

Watch me when I’m on the stairs,

Let me know that you’re here beside me.

Listen to my fervent prayer.

Bring me to my destination safely every single day.

Help me with each undertaking as the hours pass away.

And when evening falls upon us and I fear to be alone,

Take my hand O Blessed Mother

Once again O lead me home. AMEN.