Newsletter 8th Sept 2024 Issue 1516

Mass intentions in Blessington Bridie Teague…RD Rockypool, Frances Osbourne…RD Valleymount

Saturday: Kitty Cullinan…RD, Sean Dolan…RD

Sunday: Sean Fitzsimons…RD, Gerard Corrigan…RD

At Masses This Weekend,  We Remember the Following Tommy McDonald & Alfie Zellar…A,  John Deegan…RD, Valerie Crowe…RD, Claire McDonnell…RD

Monday: Mass for the Sick & those in Hospital

Tuesday: Kevin Daly …RD, Patrick McNamara…RD

Wednesday: Eileen Heffernan …RD, Margeret Collins…RD

Thursday: Edward Beattie…RD, Marcella Fahey…RD

Friday: Get Well Mass,  John Britton…RD

Friday: 1st Friday of the month, Mass offered for all on the November List of the Dead.

Minister of Eucharist September 2024 Church of Our Lady Blessington SAT 6PM: Theresa Ball, Geraldine McMulkin & Mary McCormack SUNDAY 10AM: Kay Clarke & Aisling Molloy

Feast Days 13th Sept – St. John Chrysostom. St. John Chrysostom is one of the Greek Fathers who has been declared Doctor of the Church. He is known for his preaching and public speaking, because of this his ‘writing and preaching stands out as a guide to the faithful during the history of the Church. He refused to live lavish life. In the first year alone, St John saved enough in household expenses to build a hospital. John was twice banished from Constantinople. In a cave near Antioch, he embraced extreme fasting and other ascetic practices, and studied the Bible continuously—allegedly memorizing most of it. After eight years as a hermit, John’s health suffered from his extreme fasting and penance, and he returned to Antioch to recover Forced to march for three months to his exile, John suffered greatly on this journey, as the harsh elements and rough treatment taxed his already frail health. He kept up his correspondence until the end; his letters to his friend the deaconess Olympias are a precious record of his last days. He died on Sept. 14, 407.

Women’s Breakfast Blessington & Valleymount Parishes For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matt 18:20. Our next Women’s Breakfast will be in Coimin Centre Sat Sept 21st 2024, from 9.30 to 11am. This is a great opportunity for women to get together to have a relaxing chat along with a delicious breakfast and hear a short testimony from one woman about her faith journey. A small donation would be appreciated to cover costs.

Blessington Parish Lotto Numbers on 29th August: 5,7,16,20. €25 Winner: Ann Moran. Next Jackpot €2100.

Congratulations  to the Winners of the  Valleymount Draw for August Sadie & Seamus Miley, Kit & Francis Duffy, Tina & Aidan Cruise, Betty & Breda O Brien, Maureen Phibbs & Janette O Toole.

The Family of the Late Mick Farrington  would like to sincerely thank all whom attended his repose, funeral mass & burial. To those who sent Mass cards, letters of sympathy, or left an online condolence. Our thanks to Fr Behan, Deacon Gerry, Tony & Regina Clarke for their ongoing support and kindness. To our wonderful neighbours and close friends who supported us in every way they could. To Lorraine for the beautiful singing in the church and Harry Farrington for his rendition of “Among the Wicklow Hill”. We would like to express our thanks to all the members of the Blessington Men’s Shed for their guard of honour. Also, to those members who played music at the graveside. As it would be impossible to individually thank everyone, please accept this acknowledgment as a kind expression of our deepest and sincere gratitude. Mick’s first anniversary mass will be held on Saturday 28th September at 6pm in Church of Our Lady, Blessington.

The family of the late Nora Smith sincerely thank all who supported them in their recent sad loss. A special thank you to Fr. Kane and Deacon Malone for their kind assistance. The family would also like to express appreciation to all who came to the funeral home, the funeral mass and burial and those who sent mass cards and posted messages on RIP.ie. The kindness and thoughtfulness of all is very much appreciated.  The holy sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Parents Prayer for Returning to school Heavenly Father, Thank you for the gift of my child/children. Please watch over them as they begin a new school year. Bless their teachers, school administrators, bus drivers, school support staff, friends and classmates. Keep them safe every day. I pray they may feel Your presence and know that You are always with them. Help them recall my loving words of support for them. Give them wisdom to make good choices, and an openness to learn new things. Fill them with knowledge and positive thinking. Help them overcome obstacles and shield them from negativity. Surround my child/children with good friends who also know and love You. Help them treat each other with kindness, fairness, and respect. May they treat each person they encounter as another child of God. Grant them the Grace to place their trust in You so they may know Your peace. Amen

From the writings of St John Chrysostom If you cannot find Christ in the beggar at the Church door you will not find him in the Chalice. Prayer is the place of refuge for every worry, a foundation for cheerfulness, a source of constant happiness, a protection against sadness. Happiness can only be achieved by looking inward and learning to enjoy whatever life has, and this requires transforming greed into gratitude. When we teach our children to be good, to be gentle and forgiving (all these are attributes of God) to be generous, to love their fellow human beings, to regard this present age as nothing, we instil virtue in their souls and reveal the image of God within them. Why not learn to enjoy the little things, there are so many of them.

ST BERNADETTE  RELIC PILGRIMAGE In September and October, the relics of St Bernadette will visit three churches in Dublin:  Our Lady of Victories, Ballymun Road, September 25-26. Mary Immaculate, Inchicore, October 23-24. Adam & Eve’s, Merchants Quay, October 25-26.  For more information, visit www.stbernadette.ie.

Season of Creation 2024 Theme: To Hope and Act with Creation The Season of Creation is marked throughout the Christian world from Sept 1st to Oct 4th ( feast of St Francis of Assisi) and celebrates the joy of Creation as well as encouraging awareness raising initiatives to protect the natural environment. Dates for ceremonies to mark the Season of Creation in the parish to follow.

POPES INTENTION FOR SEPTEMBER Pope Francis releases the prayer intention for the month of September, For The Cry Of The Earth Let us pray that each of us listens with our hearts to the cry of the Earth and of the victims of environmental disasters and the climate crisis, making a personal commitment to care for the world we inhabit.

At a ceremony in St Peter’s Basilica on Ascension Thursday, Pope Francis solemnly proclaims the upcoming Jubilee Year 2025, “Hope” is the overarching theme. Pope Francis announces that the Jubilee Year will begin with the opening of the Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve, 2024

AWARE SUPPORT & SELF CARE GROUPS If you or those with whom you work wish to connect with people in relation to your mental wellbeing, consider using Aware’s phone-in and Zoom support and self-care groups, support line or support mail. For more information, visit www.aware.ie.

Accord Prayer for Marriage & Family Life God of love, show us our place in this world as channels of your love. Give to us the gift of respect, empathy and understanding. Bless and strengthen our love for each other. Help us to appreciate the value of family life and to live in harmony with all whom we come in contact with. Encourage us, we pray, to act justly, love tenderly and walk humbly with the Lord. Praise be to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT The Irish Hospice Foundation provides a free Bereavement Support Line. This National Freephone Service is available from 10am to 1pm, Monday to Friday, by calling 1800 807077. Visit www.hospicefoundation.ie for more information.

ALZHEIMER CAFÉ NAAS The Alzheimer Café evening takes place on the last Wednesday of every month from 7pm to 9pm in the Convent Tea Rooms at McAuley Place, Sallins Road, Naas (Beside Parish Church). Those living with a dementia, families, carers and professionals with an interest in the area are all welcome to attend. Each month a different speaker will give a perspective on Alzheimer disease and an open discussion takes place with questions and answers.

Pathways Adult Faith course Have you ever wanted to know more about your faith? Are you looking for a course that can help you grow in your ministry? Pathways is an Adult Faith formation programme run by the Archdiocese aimed at all adults, members of PPCs and those in parish ministry. It is a 2-year course running on Thursday evenings from September to May (excluding holidays) from 7pm-9.30pm in DCU, Drumcondra, Dublin 9. The course has a number of modules including input on Images of God, Discipleship, Scripture, Liturgy, Church, Vatican II, Sacraments and Parish. The Second Year has a more intentional focus on Ministry. Each evening includes a presentation on the topic as well as small group sharing and discussion and there is no written work or assessments. The cost is €400 per year (Some parishes may help to cover some of the cost or you can contact us to discuss the possibility of a bursary)For more details, and to complete the online application form, please visit www.missionministry.ie/pathways or email peter.siney@dublindiocese.ie

Be Grateful We’re grateful for the trees, The oxygen we breathe, In the summer roses bloom, At the end of the day look up at the moon. We are worried about our environment, We need some enlightenment, Let’s stop all the confusion,  Let’s start a green revolution.  We need to stop and listen,  To our world’s petition.  We need to recycle, We need to re-use  Not to waste water, We need to choose.

MARY following in her footsteps, you will not lose your way; Praying to her You will not despair; Thinking about her, You will not be deluded. If she takes you by the hand, You will not fall; If she guides you, You will not know fatigue If she is with you, You will reach your destination.

CARE OF THE EARTH  Composting is simple. Add food scraps and yard waste to your compost bin. Occasionally turn and water the decomposing materials. Wait several months, and then you’ll have finished compost to use in your garden.

Thought for the week Know for a fact that you are not alone. A great someone is with you Always.

Blessington Library Bring your children to Blessington Library and sign up for Summer Stars.  Here’s how you take part:

1. Sign up and collect your reading card.
2. Borrow some books from the library
3. Write the names of your books in your summer stars card as you finish reading them
4. Return your card to the library to get rewards and enter our BIG PRIZE DRAW!

Blessington Community Employment Vacancies These are developmental opportunities, no experience necessary. Caretaker, Hollywood Community Centre. Duties include, but not restricted to, preparing hall for meetings and events, cleaning, light maintenance, and painting. CES 2341099 Closing Date: 28/06/2024 Caretaker, St. Johns Cemetery, Ballymore. Duties include, but not restricted to, grass cutting, light maintenance, key holding and cleaning. CES 2339500 Closing Date: 28/06/2024 Barista/ Customer Service, Kilbride GAA. Duties include, but not limited to, serving tea/ coffee, meeting and greeting, light cleaning, phone/ message taking. CES: 2339656 Closing Date: 28/06/2024 Caretaker, Hollywood Cemetery. Duties include, but not limited to, grass cutting, light maintenance, key holding. CES: 2341100 Closing Date: 28/06/2024 Secretary Hollywood Parish Office Duties include, but not limited to, administration, message taking, key holding. CES: 2341101 Closing Date: 28/06/2024 Admin/ Project Worker West Wicklow Cancer Support Duties include, but not limited to, administration, social media, promotional work. CES: 2341103Closing Date: 28/06/2024 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.”

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

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

FUEL STAMP SAVING SCHEME Fuel Stamps are a great way to help budget for your fuel costs. Start saving now towards your fuel bills during the winter months. The Stay Warm Saving Scheme is an easy payment option plan which enables households to budget for their central heating oil or solid fuel. Start saving the €5 Stay Warm Saving Stamps on the savings card and use the stamps to pay (in full or part payment) for fuel with the listed suppliers on the card. A new supplier to the scheme but not listed on the card is Tom Phibbs Fuels Tel: 01 2118469.  The Scheme is open to all households in the Blessington area and full details are available on the card. This initiative is in association with the Department of Communications Energy & Natural Resources. The €5 Stay Warm Saving Stamps and Savings Card are only available from Hennessy’s Hardware and SVP Shop.

DOMINICAN RETREATS: Harvesting Gratitude – Carol Barry. 13th to 15th September 2024 In light of the great Judeo-Christian tradition of Harvest Thanksgiving, a graced space is offered during these days to glean the kernels of truth and wisdom hidden in the mystery of our own daily life.  This will be a time to ‘ingather’ i.e. to reflect, remember and recognise the grace of God at work within and around us in order to cultivate a spirit of gratitude, hope and outreach. Cost:  €280 residential; €180 non-residential. Email dominicanretreats@gmail.com.

Pathways Adult Faith course Have you ever wanted to know more about your faith? Are you looking for a course that can help you grow in your ministry? Pathways is an Adult Faith formation programme run by the Archdiocese aimed at all adults, members of PPCs and those in parish ministry. It is a 2-year course running on Thursday evenings from September to May (excluding holidays) from 7pm-9.30pm in DCU, Drumcondra, Dublin 9. The course has several modules including input on Images of God, Discipleship, Scripture, Liturgy, Church, Vatican II, Sacraments and Parish. The Second Year has a more intentional focus on Ministry. Each evening includes a presentation on the topic as well as small group sharing and discussion and there is no written work or assessments. The cost is €400 per year (Some parishes may help to cover some of the cost, or you can contact us to discuss the possibility of a bursary) For more details, and to complete the online application form, please visit www.missionministry.ie/pathways or email peter.siney@dublindiocese.ie

West Wicklow Cancer Support invites you to join us on Wednesday mornings for our Soundbath Meditation with essential oils hosted by Gemma Deeney. Primary Care Centre Blessington, 11 am, bring your own cushion and a blanket, no need to book. The group also host a monthly Drop-In Evening on the last Thursday of the month in the Coimin Centre Blessington from 7.30pm with different activities including Arts, Craft, Journaling, Health and Wellness and guest speakers.  We also offer Counselling by appointment. Our services are private and confidential, free of charge and open to anyone on a cancer journey including family members and carers. Contact us on 087 4346004 / westwicklow15@gmail.com or find us on Facebook.

Blessington GAA  will host a series of “FREE Irish storytelling for children” between the ages of 4 and 8 in Blessington Library every two weeks starting Sat 14 Sep to Sat 14 Dec 2024 from 1pm to 2pm. Contact Noreen on 0872858375 to book a child’s place. Places will be offered on a first come first served basis.

Blessington Lakes Golf Club are hosting A Golf Classic on Friday, 20th September Tee times available from 7.30 a.m.  €200 per team of 4 which includes food. Sponsorship of a Tee box €100 Monster Raffle to take place in Blessington Lakes Golf Club on Friday 20th September. In support of Members Carmel and Chris who lost their home in a devasting fire. Contact Blessington Lakes Golf Club:   045 867146

High Definition Fitness WE ARE LOOKING FOR WOMEN AGED 60+ WHO WANT TO IMPROVE THEIR HEALTH. VITALITY FITNESS CLASSES FOR WOMEN 60+ @ HIGH-DEFINITION FITNESS. 2 CLASSES A WEEK MONDAY AND FRIDAY @12 PM. START DATE: MONDAY 9TH OF SEPTEMBER FOR 4 WEEKS. What is it?? Vitality classes are open to all abilities and are aimed at improving your strength, coordination and balance in a fun environment using carefully planned out programs led by highly skilled instructors. Spaces are limited so to express your interest don’t hesitate to get in touch with us! CONTACT (045) 865789 or EMAIL Emer at info@highdefinitionfitness.ie

Daz Auto Motors Blessington Newly opened a small garage for motor repairs and car valeting Contact 0894564703 Beside Pet Hospital in Blessington Unit 4 Blessington Industrial Estate W91HY32

Ustore @ Hollywood Large storage area available Phone 087-356-7601 €100 Per month

At Blessington Self-Storage we make storing your goods simple,  cost effective and convenient. All our units are 20ft x8ft – Open 7 days a week.  Visit our website or call 085 196 1659 us for more information. www.blessingtonselfstorage.com

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

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

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, Attic Conversions & Renovations. All Work Guaranteed Niall Kearns 0862746969.

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

GF Services Tile Cleaning Upholstery Cleaning Carpet Cleaning 0899889861 info@gfservices.ie

The Avon has a number of functions rooms available to hire for your next special occasion. Email us at info@theavon.ie and we can send on our 2024 brochure Mark Hyland Solicitors Main Street, Blessington Phone number: 045-851149 Email: markhylandsolicitors@gmail.com

Painter & Decorator Interior & Exterior Call Damien 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 Call: Mick 045 865 487 – 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487 www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com

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

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

Eagle Cleaning Solutions Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning & Repairs. Find us on Facebook! Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com

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

Leigha Andrews Driving School Cars. Trucks. Trailers. Ph 045851867 www.leighaandrewsdrivingschool.ie

Interior design by Elizabeth. Creative. unique. Personal. call 086 0881806. Email elizabethdoyle.ed@gmail.com