Mass intentions in Blessington Noel Carroll     Lacken. Alice Ryall     Knockieran

Saturday: Margaret Hayden…A, Bernadette Byrne…A, Edward Boylan…A, Noel O Shea…4th A, Jim O Shea…A, Laurence & Bridget O Shea…A , Micheal Doran…6^th A , Bridget Cummins…1st A , Marcella Butler…MM

Sunday: Bridget O Connell…A, Connor Curran…A

We also Remember:, Joe Tracy…A, Bridie & Owen Naughton…A

Monday:  Mass for the Sick & those in Hospital

Tuesday: David Rossney…RD, Alice Ryall…RD

Wednesday: Mai Whelan…RD, Pat Campbell…REM

Thursday:, John O Hara…14^th A, Teresa O Hara…A, Martin O Hara…A, Margaret Clogher & Tom, Liam, & Geraldine Clogher… A

Friday: Phyllis Farrell…A & Deceased Members of the Farrell family, Hughie Gunn… REM

February 3rd – St Blaise, Patron saint of throats.

The Blessing Of The Throats Will Take Place After All Masses, This Weekend

Rosary & Holy Hour on Tuesday 30th January, 7pm to 8pm in Church of Our Lady Blessington

Pray & Play Group In the Coimin Centre, Every Wednesday From 2.45pm to 4.30pm. For children of all ages with their parents, grandparents, guardians. Contact Áine 0833798366 or Call the office on 045365327

Minister of Eucharist February 2024 Church of Our Lady Blessington SAT 6PM: Ann Hanlon, Frank Hanlon & Theresa Ball SUNDAY 10AM: Brendan Mahon, George Richardson & Kay Clarke

Parish Calendars Last few are still available For sale in Parish Office €5 each.

I would like to thank you all for your continued support in these challenging times, it is greatly appreciated.

Our new Neighbourhood Collection account is with AIB if you would like to renew your Standing Order or set up a new one, the account details are:

IBAN IE10 AIBK 9332 3642 2314 05

BIC   AIBKIE2D

Donations can also be made through the Neighbourhood Collection envelopes from

the parish office,

Once again, may I thank all who support the parish through your donations and thank you for your generosity. With every blessing,

Fr Richard

Dates for 2024 – February 3^rd – St Blaise, Patron saint of throats. Ash Wednesday falls on the 14th February Easter Sunday falls on the 31st March.

Popes intention for February February: For the Terminally Ill. The Holy Father encourages prayers “so that terminally ill patients and their families always receive necessary medical and human care and support.”

Blessington Parish Lotto Numbers on 25^th January: 8,11,16, 17,. €25 Winner: Lisa Kavanagh Next Jackpot €4,200

CARE OF THE EARTH Creatively repurpose unwanted items to put less trash into the world. Instead of throwing things away, give them another purpose by making jewellery, household accessories, or restyled clothing. Upcycling is fun and good for the earth; for example, you could turn an old T-shirt into a grocery bag or use cinder blocks to make outdoor planters. Experiment and look for new ways to reuse old items.

Thought for the week Gods plan for your life is a lot better than the one you’ve been working on.

PRAYER TO ST BRIDGET To St Bridget, Bridget, you were a woman of peace., You brought harmony where there was conflict., You brought light to the darkness. You brought hope to the downcast. May the mantle of your peace cover those who are troubled and anxious. And may peace be firmly rooted in our hearts and in our world. Inspire us to act justly and to reverence all God has made. Bridget, you were a voice for the wounded and the weary. Strengthen what is weak within us. Calm us into a quietness that heals and listens. May we grow each day into greater wholeness in mind, body and spirit. Amen.

Prayer in Honor of St. Blaise O GOD, deliver us through the intercession of Thy holy bishop and martyr Blaise, from all evil of soul and body, especially from all ills of the throat; and grant us the grace to make a good confession in the confident hope of obtaining Thy pardon, and ever to praise with worthy lips Thy most holy name. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Free Online Reflection & Meditation Join us for 40 minutes to find healing and hope through the Sunday Gospel.  We will do this through input, music, guided prayer etc…to help nourish the soul for the week ahead. Sunday Evenings 6.45p.m. Online via Zoom (4th, 11th, 18th February) Presented By Martina & The Ruah Team https://www.ruahrest.com/ Further enquiries & bookings to info@ruahrest.com

February

February is the 2nd month of the year and has 28 or 29 days. The 29th day occurs every 4 years during a leap year. Guess what? 2024 is a leap year so February will have 29 days.  It also means that anyone born on the 29th will celebrate their birthday every four years! In February, birds start to build their nests and if the winter has not been very cold, you will see some little flowers popping up their heads –, snowdrops and some daffodils.

February is also known as the Month of Love. The 14th of February is the Feast of Saint Valentine. This day was established by Pope Gelasius I in AD 496 in honour of Valentine of Rome who died on the same date in AD 269 and became a martyred saint. The date has significance, but it was in the 14th century when it became associated with love. On February 14th you can send the person you love a Valentine’s card. An old tradition says that on February 29th, if a woman proposes marriage to her chosen man and he refuses, he is given a large fine!

January and February are very interesting months. Why not make a resolution to send out love to the planet this year and make 2024 a year of spreading love to everyone you meet? Love is the answer.

Quotation for though Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful…Joshua J. Marine

Used Stamp Collection We are collecting any used stamps in aid of the Missions. If you would like to donate the stamps that you have at home you can put them into the box which is located back of the Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Blessington Bridge Club Meets every Monday at 7.30pm in the Kare Centre. All new players welcome.

Valleymount Walking Group Would you like to start walking? This group is open to everyone of all ages and capabilities. Meeting point: Community Shed Valleymount For more information contact Sean 086 250 8230

Sunday 28th January 2024 Songs & Tunes Session, Zellers of Lacken 6 to 9pm. All listeners, singers,  players very welcome. Any song/tune/style; any ability level; all ages. Just for fun! Bring a friend
Info.: Fiona 0838127317 lakesidesessions2@gmail.com

Friendship Club Every Tuesday 3-5pm Manor Kilbride Hall Starting Tue 6th Feb Tea, Coffee, Chat €2 cover charge Adults only. All welcome

Blessington Walking Club Community support for mental emotional and physical health Morning walks during weekdays  at 9.30am Sunday walks at 11am Meeting point Blessington further ed centre WhatsApp 087 223 4005 insta@blessingtonwalkingclub

Craft Market at The Avon  on the 5th February 12:00-5:00, promoting the very best of affordable art, crafts and artisan foods

Blessington AFC in association with Tramway Theatre presents Blessington Cinema. All proceeds raised will go towards Blessington AFC teams travelling to represent the club in the Manchester Easter Cup 2024. Limited Tickets 🎟️ so get yours now in The OFFICE SHOP.

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

Always wanted to sing? All Welcome. No Auditions. Blessington Millennium Choir are looking to recruit new members who love to sing. With mixed ability and experience, we aim to positively impact our community and as such regularly raise funds for organisations and participate in events. So, if you sing in the shower, you are the King or Queen of Karaoke or a keen amateur, Come & Join Us We meet every Tuesday evening 7.30 to 9.30pm at the Kare Centre, Blessington For more details please phone (087) 4352385 or (087) 2431499 www.choirbmc.com

Blessington Library . These are our recurring events. For children and their parents/guardians Tummy Time [0 – 12 months] – Every Thursday, 11.30am Toddler Time [1 – 3 years olds] – Every Friday, 11.30am Story Time [3 – 6 years olds] –  Saturday, 11.30am Children’s Book Club  (Contact the library for more details) Age 8-9 First Thursday of month at 6.30pm Age 10-12 Third Tuesday of month at 7pm. For adults Cuidiú – Breastfeeding group Every second Monday, starting  Monday 15th January. Adult Book Clubs  (Contact the library for more details) Last Thursday of month at 6.30pm Last Friday of month at 11.00am Last Tuesday of month at 6.45pm Writing Group Second Thursday of month at 7pm Poetry Group Third Thursday of month at 6.45pm Crafty Hookers, Knitting Group
Every Wednesday, 11.00am

Blessington Community Employment Vacancies These are developmental opportunities, no experience necessary. St Kevin’s, Cemetery, Hollywood Duties inclusive of but not restricted to grass cutting, light maintenance, key holding, and cleaning. Closing Date: 20/02/2024 Reference: CES: 2317015. Secretary, St Kevin’s  Community Centre. Duties inclusive of but not restricted to admin, answering calls,  And secretarial work. Closing Date: 02/02/2024 Reference: CES: 2317031. Caretaker, Hollywood Community Centre. Duties to include but not restricted to preparing hall for meetings and events, cleaning, light maintenance, and painting. Closing Date: 02/02/2024 Reference: CES: 2317081 Caretaker, St. Johns Cemetery, Ballymore. Duties inclusive of but not restricted to grass cutting, light maintenance, key holding, and cleaning. Closing Date: 16/02/2024 Reference: CES: 2317525 Please contact us on 085-2523563 or martincahill@blessingtonce.ie Please note *You must be in receipt of a social welfare payment for the last 12 months to qualify for these positions. * CE Rates Apply.

Attention all. The next music night in Blessington Men’s Shed Will be next Monday night the 5th of February starting at 19.30hrs. Lots of music, tall tales and door prizes on the night. Looking forward to seeing everyone.

Trainee Accountant/Accounting Technician opportunity available in local accountancy practice. Training will be provided. Please call 087 7821159 for further details.

Catriona Byrne & Co Solicitors BESIDE AIB – OVER 20 YEARS ESTABLISHED FOR ALL YOUR LEGAL NEEDS 3 Mill Bank, Blessington County Wicklow Tel: 045 857 537 www.catrionsbyrne.ie

Mass intentions in Blessington Kevin & Betty Griffin… Tipperary

Saturday: Jamie Mahon …A, Alice Garry…A, Pat Garry …A, Tom Carroll…A,  Fr Paddy Byrne …2^nd A, Sean & Betty Tutty …A

Sunday: Rita & Kevin Somers…A. Micheal Melia …1^st A. Jimmy Keogh …B’day Rem. Tom Kerwin …A

We also Remember: Helen Kennedy Lunden…A, Noel Franklin…RD

Monday:  Mass for the Sick & those in Hospital

Tuesday: Gabriel Navin…A , Molly Delaney…RD

Wednesday: Seamus Boylan…RD, Christine O Connell …Rem

Thursday: Peter Layden…A, Peggy Kenny…Rem

Friday:   Get Well, Kevin Griffin …RD

Rosary & Holy Hour on Tuesday 23^rd January, 7pm to 8pm in Church of Our Lady Blessington

Pray & Play Group In the Coimin Centre, Every Wednesday From 2.45pm to 4.30pm. For children of all ages with their parents, grandparents, guardians. Contact Áine 0833798366 or Call the office on 045365327

Minister of Eucharist January 2024 Church of Our Lady Blessington SAT 6PM: Margaret Keogh Annmarie Wall & Pat McGrath SUNDAY 10AM: Michael Keogh & Margaret Flynn

Parish Calendars Last few are still available For sale in Parish Office €5 each.

I would like to thank you all for your continued support in these challenging times, it is greatly appreciated. Our new Neighbourhood Collection account is with AIB if you would like to renew your Standing Order or set up a new one, the account details are:

IBAN IE10 AIBK 9332 3642 2314 05

BIC   AIBKIE2D

Donations can also be made through the Neighbourhood Collection envelopes from

the parish office,

Once again, may I thank all who support the parish through your donations and thank you for your generosity. With every blessing,

Fr Richard

Christianity Unity Week begins Thursday 18th January  The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is an ecumenical Christian observance in the Christian calendar that is celebrated internationally. The theme of the Week in 2024 is “You shall love the Lord your God … and your neighbour as yourself”. The prayer for Christian unity is that all may be one as the gracious Trinity:  Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Christians are called to act like Christ in loving like the Good Samaritan1. The prayer is for unity and harmony among nations and communities, and for visible unity among all who believe in him.

Dates for 2024  Ash Wednesday falls on the 14th February Easter Sunday falls on the 31st March

Popes Intention for January The gift of diversity Pope Francis’ prayer intention for the month of January is for the gift of diversity in the Church. “There is no need to fear the diversity of charisms in the Church. Rather, living this diversity should make us rejoice,”

We would like to Thank everyone who took part and supported the Epiphany celebration in Valleymount Last weekend. The Parish Team

CARE OF THE EARTH Creatively repurpose unwanted items to put less trash into the world. Instead of throwing things away, give them another purpose by making jewellery, household accessories, or restyled clothing. Upcycling is fun and good for the earth; for example, you could turn an old T-shirt into a grocery bag or use cinder blocks to make outdoor planters. Experiment and look for new ways to reuse              27TH JANUARY INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CLEAN ENERGY

Blessington Parish Caring for Creation To mark the week of Christian Unity, there will be an Ecumenical Prayer Service “Lectio on Nature “in the Church of Our Lady Blessington Thurs Jan 25th @ 10 am. Meditation and Reflection on Nature passages from Scripture with prayers offered for care of the earth.

Thought for the week The Giant in front of you is never bigger than the God inside of you

We, the Butler family, would like to take this opportunity to thank all our family, friends and neighbours for their care and compassion in the recent loss of our mother Marcella Butler. We would especially like to thank the local first responders for the care they showed mammy. Marcellas’s Months Mind mass will take place on Saturday 3rd February at 6pm in Blessington.

Catholic Schools Week Communities of service, 21-27 Jan. Monday – Service in Our Community. Tuesday – Service in Our School Community. Wednesday – Service in Our Family community (Grandparents day). Thursday – Service in Our Local Community. Friday – Service in Our Faith Community.

St Brigid’s N.S. are now accepting enrolments for all pupils wishing to start in September.  Please contact the school office on 01-4582550 for an enrolment form. St Brigid’s will also be having an open evening for all prospective students and their families on Tuesday 30th January 2024.  The school will be open from 6.30pm till 7.30pm. All the staff look forward to seeing you there

Blessington Parish Lotto Numbers on 11^th January: 15,22,24,26 €25 Winner: Bernadette Rooney Next Jackpot €4,125

Left at the Lamb Book Reprint available In the Parish Office

Used Stamp Collection We are collecting any used stamps in aid of the Missions. If you would like to donate the stamps that you have at home you can put them into the box which is located back of the Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Blessington Bridge Club Meets every Monday at 7.30pm in the Kare Centre. All new players welcome.

Valleymount Community Shed NEW MEMBERS. If you or someone you know would like to join our Shed, drop in any Monday or Friday from 10.30 to 12.30 at the back of the priest’s house (The old stables) for a chat and to see what we do.

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

Blessington Walking Club Community support for mental emotional and physical health Morning walks during weekdays  at 9.30am Sunday walks at 11am Meeting point Blessington further ed centre WhatsApp 087 223 4005 insta@blessingtonwalkingclub

Valleymount Community Shed Committee We would like to express our gratitude for the wonderful support we received at all our Saturday night events last year. We are now available on Facebook, click on and like our page to see how our shed is progressing and have a look at the videos from our recent music nights. We are open to new members, young and old. Send us a message and we will contact you with all the details on how to join.   All are most welcome to attend, especially musicians, poets, singers, and storytellers. We will have something new at each upcoming music night this year, a 10-minute talk or demonstration by some interesting people, Not To Be Missed!! Come along and see what we’re all about

Always wanted to sing? All Welcome. No Auditions. Blessington Millennium Choir are looking to recruit new members who love to sing. With mixed ability and experience, we aim to positively impact our community and as such regularly raise funds for organisations and participate in events. So, if you sing in the shower, you are the King or Queen of Karaoke or a keen amateur, Come & Join Us We meet every Tuesday evening 7.30 to 9.30pm at the Kare Centre, Blessington For more details please phone (087) 4352385 or (087) 2431499 www.choirbmc.com

Blessington Library Wednesday 24th January at 11 am: Toddler Time with Rachel Drew (Call 045 891740 or blessingtonlib@wicklowcoco.ie to book your place) Tuesday 30th January at 6.45 pm Traditional Music by Rógaire Dubh, all welcome. These are our recurring events. For children and their parents/guardians Tummy Time [0 – 12 months] – Every Thursday, 11.30am Toddler Time [1 – 3 years olds] – Every Friday, 11.30am Story Time [3 – 6 years olds] –  Saturday, 11.30am Children’s Book Club  (Contact the library for more details) Age 8-9 First Thursday of month at 6.30pm Age 10-12 Third Tuesday of month at 7pm. For adults Cuidiú – Breastfeeding group Every second Monday, starting  Monday 15th January. Adult Book Clubs  (Contact the library for more details) Last Thursday of month at 6.30pm Last Friday of month at 11.00am Last Tuesday of month at 6.45pm Writing Group Second Thursday of month at 7pm Poetry Group Third Thursday of month at 6.45pm Crafty Hookers, Knitting Group
Every Wednesday, 11.00am

Blessington Community Employment Vacancies These are developmental opportunities, no experience necessary. St Kevin’s, Cemetery, Hollywood Duties inclusive of but not restricted to grass cutting, light maintenance, key holding, and cleaning. Closing Date: 20/02/2024 Reference: CES: 2317015. Secretary, St Kevin’s  Community Centre. Duties inclusive of but not restricted to admin, answering calls,  And secretarial work. Closing Date: 02/02/2024 Reference: CES: 2317031. Caretaker, Hollywood Community Centre. Duties to include but not restricted to preparing hall for meetings and events, cleaning, light maintenance, and painting. Closing Date: 02/02/2024 Reference: CES: 2317081 Caretaker, St. Johns Cemetery, Ballymore. Duties inclusive of but not restricted to grass cutting, light maintenance, key holding, and cleaning. Closing Date: 16/02/2024 Reference: CES: 2317525 Please contact us on 085-2523563 or martincahill@blessingtonce.ie Please note *You must be in receipt of a social welfare payment for the last 12 months to qualify for these positions. * CE Rates Apply.

Septic Tanks Emptied & Digger Hire Call Dermot or Adam Phibbs 087 799 5320 – 083 037 4750 lizmphibbs6@gmail.com      License no: NWCPO-21-12619-01

Blessington Counselling & Psychotherapy – Mandy Downes MAPCP 085 134 9813 Specialist in CBT & Solution focused Therapy

Wicklow & Kildare Mental Health Services  Counselling & Psychotherapy. Aran Centre, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. For Bookings please contact, by phone: 089 274 4920 or e-mail: info@wicklowandkildarementalhealth.ie

Mass intentions in Blessington Marcella Butler…RD

Saturday: Liam Craul…A Josephine Murphy…A

Sunday: Ann Clarke…A Maurice O Sullivan…A

We also Remember: Leo Howlin…A, Alan Clarke & Clarke Family…Rem, Carol Kavanagh…RD, Nixon Family…Rem, Maureen Murphy…RD, Flynn Family…Rem

Monday:  Mass for the Sick & those in Hospital

Tuesday: Blessington Christmas Masses

Wednesday: Blessington Christmas Masses

Thursday: Blessington Christmas Masses

Friday: Blessington Christmas Masses

The Feast of the Epiphany  will take place on 6th Jan. There will only be one in Mass in the area for this Feast day. Mass is at 10am in the Church of Our Lady Blessington

The Epiphany. Welcome the three Wise Men on horseback to meet the baby Jesus on 7th January at 3pm in Valleymount, with the Ballymore Pipe Band, prayers and refreshments afterwards in Community Hall

Rosary & Holy Hour returns  on Tuesday 16^th January 7pm to 8pm in Church of Our Lady Blessington

Pray & Play Group In the Coimin Centre, Every Wednesday From 2.45pm to 4.30pm. For children of all ages with their parents, grandparents, guardians. Contact Áine 0833798366 or Call the office on 045365327

Minister of Eucharist January 2024 Church of Our Lady Blessington SAT 6PM: Margaret Keogh Annmarie Wall & Pat McGrath SUNDAY 10AM: Michael Keogh & Margaret Flynn

Parish Calendars Last few are still available For sale in Parish Office €5 each. I would like to thank you all for your continued support in these challenging times, it is greatly appreciated. Our new Neighbourhood Collection account is with AIB if you would like to renew your Standing Order or set up a new one, the account details are:

IBAN IE10 AIBK 9332 3642 2314 05

BIC   AIBKIE2D

Donations can also be made through the Neighbourhood Collection envelopes from

the parish office,

Once again, may I thank all who support the parish through your donations and thank you for your generosity. With every blessing,

Fr Richard

Thank you to all who helped with the liturgy for our Christmas masses. Your support is much appreciated. A special thank you to the children of St Mary’s who sang beautifully at the Children’s mass on Christmas Eve.

Parish office Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 1pm. Contact details: Phone 045 865 327 Email: admin@blessington.info

Blessington Parish Lotto Numbers on 21st December: 2,14,21,23, €25 Winner: Kirsty Hudson. Numbers on 7^th December: 3,12,13,19, €25 Winner: Thirza Dillon Next Jackpot €4,050

Thought for the week Make a gratitude Jar. Decorate an empty jar, to be filled throughout the year with notes about good things that happen. Don’t let these good things pass by unnoticed, however small they may be.

CARE OF THE EARTH The water you use in the preparation of food, you can store it to later water your plants with it Water your plants or very early or late, to avoid evaporation by the sun and use water-saving hoses.

Blessington Musical and Dramatic Society’s annual panto is back in the Tramway Theatre from 4th – 7th January. Get ready to embark on an enchanting adventure as we bring the classic tale of “Jack and The Beanstalk” to life! All tickets €12 on sale on Eventbrite, The Office Shop and Hennessy’s Next Door, with special preview tickets €10 for Thursday’s show. Come along and support your local Theatre, looking forward to seeing you there!!

Left at the Lamb Book Reprint available In the Parish Office

Used Stamp Collection We are collecting any used stamps in aid of the Missions. If you would like to donate the stamps that you have at home you can put them into the box which is located back of the Church of Our Lady, Blessington.

Blessington Bridge Club Meets every Monday at 7.30pm in the Kare Centre. All new players welcome.

Valleymount Community Shed NEW MEMBERS. If you or someone you know would like to join our Shed, drop in any Monday or Friday from 10.30 to 12.30 at the back of the priest’s house (The old stables) for a chat and to see what we do.

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

Thanks to everyone who came along to the GOAL MILE  on Christmas Day. Miserable weather but we still raised 1070 euro for the GOAL charity so thank you for all the donations

Sakura Due to continuous business growth in Sakura Montessori, we are hiring additional staff for our busy school in Blessington. The three positions that have become available are: –

* Part-time morning Childcare Practitioner with minimum level 5 qualification (a Montessori qualification and an interest in Gaelic an advantage). 9am – 1 pm, Monday – Friday

**Morning Aims Practitioner – Minimum Level 5 in Childcare. 9am – 12pm, Monday – Friday

*** Driver with full clean driver’s licence. 8.1Oam – 9.10am (1 hour per morning), Monday- Friday

Please apply with CV and cover letter to: Antoinette Byrne, Sakura Montessori at antoinettebyrnesakurabless@gmail.com

Blessington Counselling & Psychotherapy – Mandy Downes MAPCP 085 134 9813 Specialist in CBT & Solution focused Therapy

Wicklow & Kildare Mental Health Services  Counselling & Psychotherapy. Aran Centre, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. For Bookings please contact, by phone: 089 274 4920 or e-mail: info@wicklowandkildarementalhealth.ie

To Let Very nice self-contained private office at Aran Centre, Blessington opposite Aldi.  From €125 per week plus VAT.  Contact Sean on 087 8175227.

Building & Roofing Contractor Available All Roof Repairs, Slates, Tiles, Lead Valleys, Velux Windows, PvC Fascia & Soffit, Extensions, AtticConversions & Renovations. All Work Guaranteed Niall Kearns 0862746969.

Driving instructor RSA and ADI approved.  Contact Michael 087 459 4258  for bookings.

Mass intentions in Blessington

Saturday: Mick Mills…1st A, Sharon O’Brien…Birthday Rem, Edith McInerney…A , Dan Murphy…A, Bridie Coughlan…A, Robert O Hara…8th A, Elizabeth McGinnity…A

Sunday: Camillus Balfe…A, Elizabeth Dunne…A, Myles & Hannah Wilson…A

We also Remember: Larry, Mary & Matthew Lennon…B Rem     Ann Mary & Michael Norton…Rem Stephen Masterson…A, Phyllis Murphy…A

 Monday:  Mass offered for the sick.

Tuesday: Rose Elliott…A, Maurice O Connell…A, Jim O Connell…A

Wednesday: Nancy Murray…RD, Michael McCarthy…RD

Thursday: William Keogh…A Camillus Balfe…A

Friday: 1st Friday of the month, Mass offered for all on the November List of the Dead The blessing with the relic of Padre Pio will take place after Mass.

November Altar List of the dead envelopes are on the table at the back of the church. Please fill them in if you wish to have their name included. Mass is offered once a month for all names included.

Minister of Eucharist December 2023Church of Our Lady Blessington

SAT 6PM: Frank Hanlon, Ann Hanlon & Mary McCormack

SUNDAY 10AM: Aisling Molloy, Deirdre Breen & Mary McHugh

Dates for Diary

First Holy Communion

Parish Candidates – Saturday April 27^th @11am

Lacken – Saturday May 4^th @ 11am in Lacken Church

St Mary’s Blessington – Saturday May 11^th   Two ceremonies time TBC

Valleymount – Sunday May 12^th @10am in St Joseph’s Church

Gaelscoil – Saturday May 18^th @11am

Parish Remembrance Tree People are invited to write the name of a loved one on a tag and place it on our parish remembrance tree in Clane Church. All will be remembered at our masses during November

Blessington Parish Lotto Numbers on 9th November:3,10,14,25. €25 Winner: Fiona Duffy Next Jackpot €3,825

There will be no Holy Hour during the month of December. It will resume on Jan 9th.

Team Hope Christmas shoebox appeal Would like to say a huge thank you to the people of Blessington and Valleymount parishes for the 131 Shoeboxes filled this year for needy children in Eastern Europe and Africa. Last year the boxes (74) from this parish went to Burkina Faso a small country in Northern Africa.

Valleymount & Lacken Parish Draw Final Draw will take place on Sunday 26^th November after 10am Mass In St Joseph’s Church Valleymount

Lakeshore Striders Blessington are running their 8^th annual collection for the Capuchin Day Centre  with a fresh appeal this year ‘To fill a sock’ for the homeless with any of the following items: Toothbrush & toothpaste, Bar of soap /small shower gel, Roll on deodorant, Gloves, Boxers / underwear. Don’t forget to pack the other sock and tie it at the top with a ribbon or piece of string and please identify if it’s for a male or female / boy or girl. All items must be brand new. Drop off your sock between 12 & 3pm at the Crying Room, Church of Our Lady, Blessington on Sat, 25^th Nov. You can also drop off any of the following items to the collection point at Kenny’s Super Valu Blessington between the 18^th and the 25^th of Nov or to us in the Church of Our Lady’s on the 25^th of Nov: Tea bags, Tins of beans, 1lb packets of sugar, Nappies (all sizes), Baby wipes, Baby formula, Baby food. Financial donations also accepted on the day on behalf of the Capuchin Centre. For further info contact lakeshorestriders@gmail.com

Up Coming Events at Blessington Library I Am Baba, 30th November. Three sessions at 10am, 11am and 12pm.

Flute and Harp  recital by The Old Court Duo Monday 4th December at 11am

Way With Words Literary Festival-In Conversation with Edel Coffey, moderated by Olivia Fitzsimons

Saturday 9th December at 4pm

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

Happy Faces Pre-school St Marys JNS Contact 0877658420 Email: happyfaces.blessington@gmail.com ECCE places available

Ігрова група Valleymount Parent & Baby/toddler працює щочетверга протягом шкільного семестру з 09.30 до 12.00 у Valleymount Hall.  Щиро вітаються нові батьки.  Заходьте випити чашечку чаю та побалакати Valleymount Parent & Baby/Toddler Playgroup meets every Thursday during school term from 9.30am to 12 in Valleymount Hall. New parents most welcome. Pop in for a cuppa & a chat.

Tuesday Rural Bus Service to Naas & Newbridge. Your support is needed to keep this service open. This is ideal as a “shopping bus”. Adult return journey €3.50 & €1 for students. (a free service for many qualifying adults) Departs Blessington Bus Shelter at 10am via Naas to Newbridge (Whitewater Shopping Centre) Departs Whitewater at 1.45pm. Further info: Jane Auld 087 266 0616 or Pat Conlan 086 075 2072

Blessington Bridge Club meets every Monday 18th September at 7.30pm in the Kare Centre. All new players welcome.

Blessington Counselling & Psychotherapy – Mandy Downes MAPCP 085 134 9813 Specialist in CBT & Solution focused Therapy

Wicklow & Kildare Mental Health Services  Counselling & Psychotherapy. Aran Centre, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. For Bookings please contact, by phone: 089 274 4920 or e-mail: info@wicklowandkildarementalhealth.ie

Looking to upskill or do a new course? Blessington Further Education and Training Centre are now enrolling for Part Time courses in September:

• Digital Marketing
• Database Methods
• Early Leaning & Care
• Stage 1 – Childcare
• Care Skills & Care
• of the Older Person
• Horticulture Science
• Word Processing
• Tourism
• Spreadsheet Methods
• Business Administration
• Social Studies
• & many more… All courses are QQI certified in either Level 4 or 5 Contact: 045 891 099 – 086 850 3833 – 086 806 1569 or email karentownsend@kwetb.ie irenehayden@kwetb.ie

Christmas Market A Festive Showcase Of Local Crafts And Artisans Because they deserve something as special and unique as they are The Avon, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. W91HFX3 Sunday 3^rd Dec 12 noon to 5pm Purplellama.market@gmail.com

CHRISTMAS GALLERY OPEN Saturday & Sunday 12:00 – 17:00 11^th November – 10^th December END OF SEASON SALE EVERYTHING MUST GO TO MAKE WAY FOR NEW EXHIBITION NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED Fabulous Original Art Ancient Bog Oak Sculptures This secret Gallery is located in The Glen of Imaal, Eircode W91 P653. Free Tea/Coffee for all Visitors

Building & Roofing Contractor Available All Roof Repairs, Slates, Tiles, Lead Valleys, Velux Windows, PvC Fascia & Soffit, Extensions, AtticConversions & Renovations. All Work Guaranteed Niall Kearns 0862746969.

Driving instructor RSA and ADI approved.  Contact Michael 087 459 4258  for bookings.

Ashling Frames are delighted to now offer a full photo printing service in Blessington, including passport photos, in partnership with Fujifilm, in addition to our custom and standard framing. ashlingframes@gmail.com or follow us on Instagram

Blessington Taxi Phone Greg 087 2626 393

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850Painter & Decorator – Interior & Exterior Phone: Damien 085 826 0431

Paying too much for SKY or Virgin Media? We Install or Repair Free to Air and Saorview! No more Bills! Call Billy 086 868 0053

Local Builder Available – All services under one roof, Windows & Doors, Plumbing, Tiling, Roofing, Plastering, Electrical, Carpentry, Insulation. All levels of construction services available. Fully registered. Call Paul 086 309 1829

Interior Designs by Elizabeth Creative, Unique, Personal. Please phone: 086 088 1806. Email: elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com

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, Regina or Gordon: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 / 087 249 5411 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

• PARISH INFORMATION

Church of Our Lady, Blessington – Mass Times: Saturday 6.00pm.  Sunday 10.00amWeekdays: Monday to Friday 9.30am – Fr. Richard Behan PP. Tel: 045 865327Church of Our Lady of Mercy, Crosschapel – Mass Times: Sundays 11.30amSt. Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride – Mass Times: Sundays 11.00amWeekdays: Monday to Friday 9am – Fr. Paraic McDermott C.S. Sp., Tel: 01 4582154St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount – Mass Times: Sunday 10amOur Lady of Mount Carmel, Lacken – Mass Time: Saturdays 7.30pmParish Office: 9am to 1pm Monday to Friday Tel: 045 865 327

November Altar List of the dead envelopes are on the table at the back of the church. Please fill them in if you wish to have their name included. Mass is offered once a month for all names included.

Share Appeal Sunday takes place on the weekend of November 11/12, highlighting the important work that is funded by the weekly collection.

Minister of Eucharist, November 2023, Church of Our Lady Blessington. SAT 6PM: Geraldine McCulkin, Mary McCormack & Mary Fenton SUNDAY 10AM: Brendan Mahon, George Richardson & Kay Clarke

Enrolment masses for First Holy Communion . St Marys School Blessington 18^th November @6:pm in Blessington Church. Lacken 18^th November 18^th @7;30 in Lacken church. Gaelscoil 19^th November @10am Mass Blessington.

Parish Remembrance Tree People are invited to write the name of a loved one on a tag and place it on our parish remembrance tree in Clane Church. All will be remembered at our masses during November

November Reflection

Seasons of Our Lives,

God our Creator,

In the springtime of our lives, You give us the enthusiasm and daring of youth.

In the summer of our lives, You encourage us to reach our full potential.

In the autumn of our lives, You walk beside us as we reflect on years gone by.

In the winter of our lives, You enfold us in your love, which will never let us go.

when the seasons of our love are past, You clothe us with resurrection bodies, which will live forever. Amen

Pray & Play Group In the Coimin Centre every Wed From 2.45pm to 4.30pmFor children of all ages with their parents, grandparents, guardians. Contact Áine 0833798366or Call the office on 045365327

I would like to thank you all for your continued support in these challenging times, it is greatly appreciated. Since the closure of Ulster Bank in the town, our standing orders have dropped off significantly. We now have a new Neighbourhood Collection account with AIB if you would like to renew your Standing Order or set up a new one, the account details are:

IBAN   IE10 AIBK 9332 3642 2314 05           BIC      AIBKIE2D

Donations can also be made through the Neighbourhood Collection envelopes which are available from the parish office ,Once again, may I thank all who support the parish through your donations and thank you for your generosity. With every blessing, Fr Richard

Blessington Parish Lotto Numbers on 2nd Nov:5,12,20,22. €25 Winner: Anna Nagle. Next Jackpot €3,750

CHRISTMAS SHOE BOX APPEAL Looking forward to sharing the kindness of our community and give a child a great Christmas You can take part in the usual way. The envelopes are at the back of the church. Fill the shoebox and drop back to Parish Centre by Friday 11^th November Alternatively, you can drop 25euro into the parish office and the parish team will fill the box for you or fill one virtually. More information www.teamhope.ie

Winners of the This Months Valleymount Draw Bridie & Pat O Connor, Betty & Edward Miley, Paddy Broe, Bernadette & Matt Kelly, Bridie & Tony Kavanagh.

The next music session, in the Men’s Shed will be Monday the 6th of Nov, starting at 8 o clock. Great music and spot prizes on the night

Community Pool for West Wicklow will be holding our AGM  online on November 24th at 7pm. If you would like to attend, please email poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com to register. Thank you for your continued support.

Blessington Community College Parents Council is running a clothes recycling fundraiser. They are asking for the support of the community in donating clothes, shoes(in pairs only), bags, belts, towels, blankets and curtains. No duvets or pillows. All donations can be left at the school office from Mon 6th Nov 2023 up to Fri 8th Dec 2023. Thank you for your anticipated support.

Christmas Market A Festive Showcase Of Local Crafts And Artisans Because they deserve something as special and unique as they are The Avon, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. W91HFX3 Sunday 3^rd Dec 12 noon to 5pm Purplellama.market@gmail.com

Kildare/Wicklow/Dublin Border Area, You need One or mix of small task(s) done in or outside your home or errant done? In 2hour slots max, Phone Hugo 087 257 5931 Rate €12 hourly

Social Dancing. Enjoy an evening of dancing to Philip English In Donard Community Hall Saturday 18^th Nov 9pm -12pm All Welcome

CHRISTMAS GALLERY OPEN Saturday & Sunday 12:00 – 17:00 11^th November – 10^th December END OF SEASON SALE EVERYTHING MUST GO TO MAKE WAY FOR NEW EXHIBITION NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED Fabulous Original Art Ancient Bog Oak Sculptures This secret Gallery is located in The Glen of Imaal, Eircode W91 P653. Free Tea/Coffee for all Visitors