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Newsletter 25th May 2025. Issue 1547
Mass intentions in Blessington Nick McHardy RD Baltyboys
Saturday: Nicolas Dunne…A, Annie & Jim O Toole…A, Marian O Toole…A, Noleen Duff…A, Bridget O Hagan…MM, Mairead Hudson…A, Larry Smith…A Patrick Flanagan…A
Sunday: John McGuire…A, James & Teresa McGuire…Rem
Monday: Mass for the Sick & those in Hospital
Tuesday: Micheal O Driscoll…RD, Get Well Intentions
Wednesday: Ray Govier…RD, Geraldine Watson…RD
Thursday: Micheal Slattery…RD, Fergus Walsh…RD
Friday: Edward Boylan…RD, Giovanni Mauri…RD
Feast Days – 29th May – St Paul VI. St Paul VI, born 1897, died 6 August 1978. Ordained priest 29 May 1920 and worked in Vatican for most of the time before becoming Archbishop of Milan in 1954. Elected pope in 1963, taking the name Paul VI, succeeding Pope John XXIII and continuing the Second Vatican Council. A messenger of peace, he sought to open the Church to the modern world. he began the papal apostolic visits, as a pilgrim to the Holy Land and a historic meeting with Athenagoras, the Ecumenical Patriarch. Beatified 2014, canonised 2018, his memorial is on the anniversary of his priestly ordination.
Date for your Diary – Saturday May 24th Healing Mass in Church of Our Lady Blessington. Sunday 29th June at 2pm Manor Kilbride Cemetery Sunday.
Pray & Play Group In the Coimin Centre, Every Wed 2.45pm to 4.30pm. For children of all ages with their parents, grandparents, guardians. Contact Áine 086 107 0480
Rosary & Holy Hour The Holy Hour with Rosary and Adoration will be at 7pm every Wed for the duration of the Summer months.
Minister of Eucharist – June 2025 Church of Our Lady Blessington SAT 6PM: Teresa Ball & Sarah Ortega SUNDAY 10AM: Aisling Molloy & AnnaNora Hudson
Blessington Parish Lotto Numbers on 15th May: 8,9,21,22. €25 Winner: Michael Kennedy. Next Jackpot €3000.
Congratulations to the boys and girls from St. Joseph’s School, Valleymount who received their First Holy Communion on Sunday morning at the 10.00 am. Mass in St Joseph’s Church. It was a very joyous occasion for their families and the Community.
Popes Intentions for May 2025 FOR WORKING CONDITIONS Let us pray that through work, each person might find fulfilment, families might be sustained in dignity, and that society might be humanised.
Prayer of Pope Paul VI Make us worthy, Lord, to serve our brothers and sisters throughout the world who live and die in poverty and hunger. Give them, through our hands, this day their daily bread, and by our understanding love, give peace and joy. Amen.
Prayer to the Virgin Mary for the Month of May O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me, That you are my Mother and my protector. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart To aid me in my need. Amen
Queen of the May
Bring flowers of the rarest
Bring blossoms the fairest
From garden and woodland and hillside
and dale
Our full hearts are swelling, our glad
voices telling
The praise of the loveliest flower
of the vale
Oh Mary we crown thee with
blossoms to-day
Queen of the angels and Queen of the May
Oh Mary we crown thee with
Blossoms to-day
Queen of the angels and
Queen of the May
A Prayer for our Parish Heavenly Father, Bless our Church and our parish, And all the good work that goes on in them. May all who are Christians live and work together for the good of each other and the glory of your Name. May those who do not know you be brought by our example to a loving knowledge and peace with you. Amen
Pilgrimage for the Jubilee year 2025. Pilgrimage is an important component of a Jubilee year. Many travel abroad for pilgrimage, but a pilgrimage can also take place with the abundant Christian locations we have within our own Diocese. An exhibition ‘Pockets of Hope’ has been set up in the four Jubilee Churches in our Archdiocese: -St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral, Marlborough Street. -Our Lady of Lourdes, Sean McDermott Street. -Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, City Quay. -St. Andrew’s Church, Westland Row. There is a further display in St. Kevin’s Parish Church, Glendalough.
The Jubilee Prayer Father in heaven, may the faith you have given us in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother, and the flame of charity enkindled in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, reawaken in us the blessed hope for the coming of your Kingdom. May your grace transform us into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel. May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos in the sure expectation of a new heaven and a new earth, when, with the powers of Evil vanquished, your glory will shine eternally. May the grace of the Jubilee reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope, a yearning for the treasures of heaven. May that same grace spread the joy and peace of our Redeemer throughout the earth. To you our God, eternally blessed, be glory and praise for ever. Amen
CARE OF THE EARTH. NoMowMay is one of the easiest ways to help and connect with wildlife, and the perfect way to start supporting nature in your garden (in May and beyond!).
Thought of the Week Clouds come floating into my life. No longer to carry rain or usher storm, But to add colour to my sunset sky – Rabindranath Tagore
A Summer Prayer Long warm days… The pace of life slows… A time for picnics and rest in the shade… Lord, help me to rest awhile in the cooling shade of your presence. Slow down my restless heart and fill me with gentle compassion for all your people. Amen.
Give thanks daily for your blessings. Get the habit of thinking happy thoughts. Go out of your way to make other people happy. There is your formula for real happiness and enthusiasm
Lacken Naíonra (Preschool) have a limited number of ECCE places for September 2025 To find out more or to arrange a viewing, please email naionra@lackenns.com.
West Wicklow Cancer Support invites you to our monthly Drop in Evening for May, we are hosting a gardening evening when we welcome a local horticulturist giving tips and advice on that perfect seasonal garden! Thursday 29th May 7.30pm, Coimin Centre, Blessington. This is open to all, no booking required and do bring a friend and enjoy some tea and refreshments afterwards. Contact us on 087 4346004 westwicklow15@gmail.com with any enquiries
Notice of AGM for St Mary’s College, Past Pupils Alumni. As we approach the 90th Anniversary of our school, and with a new building on the horizon, we are planning something special to celebrate and honour the school’s rich history. We are calling on all past pupils of St Mary’s College to come and join our committee to be part of fundraising opportunities and the celebrations. AGM takes place in the school Library, Wednesday May 28th at 7.30pm, we hope you see you there.
Four Host Families Needed For Spanish Boys & Girls ages between 12 & 15 Dates:28th June -26th July Students attend school every day. If you are interested contact WhatsApp Paloma 00 33 628 11 49 38 Michelle 085 253 1377 Email: Kinsdale.paloma@gmail.com
Table Tennis Club. If anyone is interested in helping to set up a table tennis club for children please contact the parish office with your details. Call 045 865327 between 9am & 1pm
We are having FREE gardening classes in the Stables, Valleymount every Tuesday from the 8th of April till the end of May from 14.45 until 16.45 (except for Easter holidays). They will be run by a very experienced teacher from Kildare and Wicklow Education Board. All seeds, compost and top soil will be provided free of charge and all plants grown can be taken home. The course will cover flower and vegetable growing as well as lawn care. Hope to see you there.
Volunteer Opportunity Join our Monthly Social Club! Hosted by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. The Coimin Centre, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. Last Friday of every month Starting 30 May Just 2 hours of your time We’re looking for warm, friendly volunteers to help create a welcoming space for people living with dementia. Interested? Contact Teresa Nagle at 085 870 6852 or email teresa.glover@alzheimer.ie
Blessington Library (045) 891 740 Chess Club for children Every Friday from 3 pm No booking required. English Conversation Group Tuesdays 12 – 2 pm Thursdays 5 -7 pm No booking required.
Blessington Community Employment Vacancies These are developmental opportunities, no experience necessary. 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. St Mary’s Church Caretaker: This is a developmental opportunity, no experience necessary. Ref Number: 2381875 Valleymount GAA Caretaker: Duties will include but not limited to: Grass cutting and pitch maintenance, Some cleaning duties. Ref Number: 2381878 Blessington Greenway Caretaker: Duties to include but not restricted to grass cutting, verge and tree maintenance. Ref Number: 2386069 Hollywood Community Center Caretaker: Duties to include but not limited to: General light maintenance. Some cleaning duties. Ref Number: 2386070
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.
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
Blessington U3A are pleased to announce our next talk Speaker: Lt. Colonel (retired) Ray Lane Title: “Only a Soldier Knows” Date: Tue 20th May at 10.30am Venue: Avon Hotel, Blessington All are welcome Non-members €5 per person.
Blessington Carboot Sunday 25th May. St. Kevin’s Community Centre on Main Street. 8am to 4pm. Free Carparking. Toilets Teas / Coffee. Stalls €10. 0860752072.
Blessington Millennium Choir – Spring/Summer Concert SATURDAY, 24 MAY 2025 AT 7 PM St Kevin’s Hall, Blessington Musical Director: John Francis Murphy Harp Solo: Harry Carpendale Soprano Solo: Ursula Conlon Tickets Available from: West Wicklow Cancer Support: 087-434 6004
or westwicklow15@gmail.com Blessington Tourist Office Shay Cunningham 086-2313796 Admission €15 Profits donated to cancer support
Large Double bedroom with own Private Lounge to Rent in beautiful house in Kill Co Kildare. Only 45 minutes from O’ Connell Bridge. Suit Mature Senior Women who speaks English. Massive kitchen to arrange suitable hours for use. Refuse Bins, Electricity, Sky Television all in the cost of €950 Euro per month. Driving space available. Call 086/1912777 Terry
Alexandro Ferreira Atelier Expert precision tailoring and high-quality alterations for all garment types — from elegant bridal and evening wear to everyday clothing. Based in Blessington. Phone: 0871946331 Instagram: alexandrofatelier.
Are you feeling every Muscle Ache and Pain? Are you struggling Lifting the Kids or Sitting at a Desk in Work? Have you got Chronic Muscle or Joint Pain? And struggling to perform Simple Day-to-Day Tasks? We have just opened a new local Sports & Holistic Therapy Clinic. Fully qualified ITEC, fully insured and well experienced Therapist. Looking forward to welcoming all our new clients today. Phone Jennifer: 087 9021099.
New local maintenance/ landscaping business available for all your gardening needs. Planting, mowing, mulching, cutbacks, etc. please call Shane on 0851279740 or email hollywoodlandscaping@hotmail.com
Blessington Taxi Phone Greg 087 2626 393
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
Driving instructor RSA and ADI approved. Contact Michael 087 459 4258 for bookings.
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
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
Tomphibbs.ie Kiln-Dried Firewood Standard bag from €110 Large bag from €180 Larch, birch, hornbeam, or ash available. Call 01-2118469 Delivery charge – €20 per order
Niall Kearns Building & Roofing Contractor 086 274 6969 nkbuildandroof@gmail.com Building New Homes, Extensions, Sunrooms Attic Conversions, Renovations, Chimney Repairs Roofing New Roofs, All Roof Repairs Flat Roofs, Gutter Repairs Roof Replacement, PVC Fascia & Soffit All Work Fully Guaranteed
JP&M Doyle What’s Your Property Worth? Talk to us today for your free-Market Appraisal Specializing In Residential Town & Country Homes Development & Agricultural Land Commercial Property Lettings, Valuations. 2025 is your year to make it happen! With high demand and a lack of supply, now is the perfect time to maximise your property’s value. www.jpmdoyle.ie Tel: 045-865568
Counselling/ Psychotherapy at The Healer’s Dance Blessington Adult Counselling, Adolescent Counselling & low-cost counselling for adults Call today for more information on 0872362955 or check us on Instagram or our website www.healersdance.com
Newsleter 18th May 2025. Issue 1546
Mass intentions in Blessington Garda Kevin Flatley RD.
Saturday: Sharon O Brien…7th A, Andy Farrington…A, Yvonne Phibbs…A, Mary Curtin…A, Kathleen Curtin…A, Kathleen O Connell…A, Nick Clark…A, Ita Gaughran…A, Billy & Mick Ball…A
Sunday: Noel Kelly…4th A, John Kelly…A, Amelia Lily Phillips…A, Jim Clarke…A
Monday: Mass for the Sick & those in Hospital
Tuesday: Danny O Connell…RD, Martin Kelly…RD
Wednesday: Get Well Intention Mass, Teresa Ward…RD
Thursday: Patsy Dunne…RD, Matt Kelly…RD
Friday: Bernie O Reilly…RD, Eileen Healy…RD
Lay Ministry Appeal The Annual Lay Ministry Appeal and Collection will take place this weekend at all masses the collection will replace the second collection at all Masses. Your support is greatly appreciated
Trocaire Collection A second Trocaire Collection has been organised. Please return your Trocaire box or donation to the Parish office before Monday 19th May.
Feast Days – 20th May – St Bernardine St Bernadine was born in 1380 near Siena in Italy. As a young man he took charge of a hospital in Siena during the plague. He then became a Franciscan priest and travelled through Italy preaching with great success. He promoted devotion to the Holy Name and to St Joseph. St Bernadine is patron saint of respiratory illnesses. He died in 1444. 22nd May – St Rita of Cascia St Rita is known as the “Saint of the Impossible” because of her amazing answers to prayers, as well as the remarkable events of her own life. St. Rita wanted to become a nun, but in obedience to her aged parents, she married. Her husband caused her much suffering, but she repaid his cruelty with prayer and kindness. During her 18-year marriage, she bore and raised two sons. After her husband was killed in a brawl and her sons had died, Rita tried to join the Augustinian nuns in Cascia. St. Rita of Cascia is known as the patron saint of impossible causes. St Rita on May 22, 1457, aged 76, in Cascia, Italy.
Women’s Breakfast Blessington & Valleymount Parishes Our next Breakfast will be on Saturday May 17th From 9.30-11am All are welcome
Family Mass Followed by Refreshments in the Coimin Centre After 10am Mass on Sunday 18th May All Are Welcome
Date for your Diary The Annual Blessing of the Graves & Cemetery Mass will take place in Burgage Cemetery on Sunday 18th May 2025 at 3 pm
Dates for your Diary Healing Mass Church of Our Lady Blessington Saturday May 24th Saturday September 13th Saturday December 13th All Masses will take place at 11am All are welcome
Date for your Diary – Sunday 18th May 2025 at 3 pm The Annual Blessing of the Graves & Cemetery Mass will take place in Burgage Cemetery. Saturday May 24th Healing Mass in Church of Our Lady Blessington. Sunday 29th June at 2pm Manor Kilbride Cemetery Sunday.
Minister of Eucharist – May 2025 Church of Our Lady Blessington SAT 6PM: Ann Hanlon & Frank Hanlon SUNDAY 10AM: Kay Clarke & Mary McHugh
Pray & Play Group In the Coimin Centre, Every Wed 2.45pm to 4.30pm. For children of all ages with their parents, grandparents, guardians. Contact Áine 086 107 0480
Rosary & Holy Hour The Holy Hour with Rosary and Adoration will be at 7pm every Wed for the duration of the Summer months.
Blessington Parish Lotto Numbers on 8th May: 16,19,22,30. €25 Winner: Seanna Pender. Next Jackpot €3000.
Popes Intentions for May 2025 FOR WORKING CONDITIONS Let us pray that through work, each person might find fulfilment, families might be sustained in dignity, and that society might be humanised.
Prayer to the Virgin Mary for the Month of May O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me, That you are my Mother and my protector. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart To aid me in my need. Amen
Prayer to St. Rita O powerful St. Rita, rightly called Saint of the Impossible, I come to you with confidence in my great need. You know well my trials, for you yourself were many times burdened in this life. Come to my help, speak for me, pray with me, intercede on my behalf before the Father. I know that God has a most generous heart and that he is a most loving Father. Join your prayers to mine and obtain for me the grace I desire (here mention your request). You who were so very pleasing to God on earth and are so much so now in heaven, I promise to use this favour, when granted, to better my life, to proclaim God’s mercy, and to make you more widely known and loved. Amen.
Prayer to St Bernardine ” Saint Bernardine of Siena, words were very important to you. You spent most of your life speaking the golden words of Jesus’ mercy and his Holy Name. And you abhorred words that were shameful. Pray for us that we may always choose to speak Jesus’ name with reverence and choose words of love over words of shame. Amen.
A Prayer for our Parish Heavenly Father, Bless our Church and our parish, And all the good work that goes on in them. May all who are Christians live and work together for the good of each other and the glory of your Name. May those who do not know you be brought by our example to a loving knowledge and peace with you. Amen
Pilgrimage for the Jubilee year 2025. Pilgrimage is an important component of a Jubilee year. Many travel abroad for pilgrimage, but a pilgrimage can also take place with the abundant Christian locations we have within our own Diocese. An exhibition ‘Pockets of Hope’ has been set up in the four Jubilee Churches in our Archdiocese: -St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral, Marlborough Street. -Our Lady of Lourdes, Sean McDermott Street. -Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, City Quay. -St. Andrew’s Church, Westland Row. There is a further display in St. Kevin’s Parish Church, Glendalough.
The Jubilee Prayer Father in heaven, may the faith you have given us in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother, and the flame of charity enkindled in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, reawaken in us the blessed hope for the coming of your Kingdom. May your grace transform us into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel. May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos in the sure expectation of a new heaven and a new earth, when, with the powers of Evil vanquished, your glory will shine eternally. May the grace of the Jubilee reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope, a yearning for the treasures of heaven. May that same grace spread the joy and peace of our Redeemer throughout the earth. To you our God, eternally blessed, be glory and praise for ever. Amen
Ballymore Eustace & Hollywood Lourdes 4 Nights Pilgrimage. 12th August – 16th August 2025, €795 per person sharing (Full Board – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) 12th August 2025 Dublin –Lourdes, 07:45 – 10:55. 16th August 2025 Lourdes – Dublin, 09:25 – 10:35 Your Lourdes package includes: Transport & Accommodation ✓ Return flights Dublin to Lourdes ✓ 10kg Baggage allowance to be checked in. ✓ Transfer on arrival from Lourdes airport to your hotel with guided assistance ✓ 4 nights in the 4* Hotel Astrid ✓ Free Wi-Fi in the hotel ✓ Breakfast, Lunch and Evening meal served each day at hotel – as per pricing above. 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners. ✓ Services of Marian Pilgrimages Tours representative and professional English-speaking guide throughout the pilgrimage ✓ Luxury air-conditioned coach throughout the itinerary ✓ All airport & local City taxes Tours & Religious Programme ✓ Full religious programme organised by Marian Pilgrimages with a complete programme of sightseeing and visits to sites of interest. ✓ Mass daily & Spiritual activities Not Included Single Room Supplement €40 per night Comprehensive Travel Insurance €30. Extra €30 for pilgrims over 85 years Optional excursions Please contact Ballymore Eustace Parish Office Secretary Frances, 045 864114 Email, ballymoreeustaceparish@gmail.com Hollywood Parish Secretary Tina, 045 864528 Email,hwparishoffice@gmail.com
Thought of the Week The tests of life are not to break you But to make you.
CARE OF THE EARTH. NoMowMay is one of the easiest ways to help and connect with wildlife, and the perfect way to start supporting nature in your garden (in May and beyond!).
Donard Country Market Is on Saturday 17th May, 11am till 4pm Donard Community Hall W91 YW57. There’ll be a great variety of stalls selling everything from tasty sourdough bread, beautiful garden plants, greetings cards and other delightful crafts and lots more. Also The Meeting Place cafe, also situated in the hall, is open from 11 till 2.30 for food and drink.
Table Tennis Club. If anyone is interested in helping to set up a table tennis club for children please contact the parish office with your details. Call 045 865327 between 9am & 1pm
We are having FREE gardening classes in the Stables, Valleymount every Tuesday from the 8th of April till the end of May from 14.45 until 16.45 (except for Easter holidays). They will be run by a very experienced teacher from Kildare and Wicklow Education Board. All seeds, compost and top soil will be provided free of charge and all plants grown can be taken home. The course will cover flower and vegetable growing as well as lawn care. Hope to see you there.
Volunteer Opportunity Join our Monthly Social Club! Hosted by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. The Coimin Centre, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. Last Friday of every month Starting 30 May Just 2 hours of your time We’re looking for warm, friendly volunteers to help create a welcoming space for people living with dementia. Interested? Contact Teresa Nagle at 085 870 6852 or email teresa.glover@alzheimer.ie
Social Dancing. Enjoy an evening of dancing to Unity In Donard Community Hall Saturday 17th May 9pm -12am. All Welcome
Blessington Library (045) 891 740 Chess Club for children Every Friday from 3 pm No booking required. English Conversation Group Tuesdays 12 – 2 pm Thursdays 5 -7 pm No booking required.
Blessington Community Employment Vacancies These are developmental opportunities, no experience necessary. 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. St Mary’s Church Caretaker: This is a developmental opportunity, no experience necessary. Ref Number: 2381875 Valleymount GAA Caretaker: Duties will include but not limited to: Grass cutting and pitch maintenance, Some cleaning duties. Ref Number: 2381878 Blessington Greenway Caretaker: Duties to include but not restricted to grass cutting, verge and tree maintenance. Ref Number: 2386069 Hollywood Community Center Caretaker: Duties to include but not limited to: General light maintenance. Some cleaning duties. Ref Number: 2386070
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.
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
Blessington U3A are pleased to announce our next talk Speaker: Lt. Colonel (retired) Ray Lane Title: “Only a Soldier Knows” Date: Tue 20th May at 10.30am Venue: Avon Hotel, Blessington All are welcome Non-members €5 per person.
Blessington Carboot Sunday 25th May. St. Kevin’s Community Centre on Main Street. 8am to 4pm. Free Carparking. Toilets Teas / Coffee. Stalls €10. 0860752072.
Blessington Millennium Choir – Spring/Summer Concert SATURDAY, 24 MAY 2025 AT 7 PM St Kevin’s Hall, Blessington Musical Director: John Francis Murphy Harp Solo: Harry Carpendale Soprano Solo: Ursula Conlon Tickets Available from: West Wicklow Cancer Support: 087-434 6004
or westwicklow15@gmail.com Blessington Tourist Office Shay Cunningham 086-2313796 Admission €15 Profits donated to cancer support
Large Double bedroom with own Private Lounge to Rent in beautiful house in Kill Co Kildare. Only 45 minutes from O’ Connell Bridge. Suit Mature Senior Women who speaks English. Massive kitchen to arrange suitable hours for use. Refuse Bins, Electricity, Sky Television all in the cost of €950 Euro per month. Driving space available. Call 086/1912777 Terry
Gardening Services We Dismantle/take away Sheds, Cut Trees, Tidy Gardens Phone John 085-216-4606
Alexandro Ferreira Atelier Expert precision tailoring and high-quality alterations for all garment types — from elegant bridal and evening wear to everyday clothing. Based in Blessington. Phone: 0871946331 Instagram: alexandrofatelier.
Are you feeling every Muscle Ache and Pain? Are you struggling Lifting the Kids or Sitting at a Desk in Work? Have you got Chronic Muscle or Joint Pain? And struggling to perform Simple Day-to-Day Tasks? We have just opened a new local Sports & Holistic Therapy Clinic. Fully qualified ITEC, fully insured and well experienced Therapist. Looking forward to welcoming all our new clients today. Phone Jennifer: 087 9021099.
New local maintenance/ landscaping business available for all your gardening needs. Planting, mowing, mulching, cutbacks, etc. please call Shane on 0851279740 or email hollywoodlandscaping@hotmail.com
Blessington Taxi Phone Greg 087 2626 393
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
Driving instructor RSA and ADI approved. Contact Michael 087 459 4258 for bookings.
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
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
Tomphibbs.ie Kiln-Dried Firewood Standard bag from €110 Large bag from €180 Larch, birch, hornbeam, or ash available. Call 01-2118469 Delivery charge – €20 per order
Niall Kearns Building & Roofing Contractor 086 274 6969 nkbuildandroof@gmail.com Building New Homes, Extensions, Sunrooms Attic Conversions, Renovations, Chimney Repairs Roofing New Roofs, All Roof Repairs Flat Roofs, Gutter Repairs Roof Replacement, PVC Fascia & Soffit All Work Fully Guaranteed
JP&M Doyle What’s Your Property Worth? Talk to us today for your free-Market Appraisal Specializing In Residential Town & Country Homes Development & Agricultural Land Commercial Property Lettings, Valuations. 2025 is your year to make it happen! With high demand and a lack of supply, now is the perfect time to maximise your property’s value. www.jpmdoyle.ie Tel: 045-865568
Counselling/ Psychotherapy at The Healer’s Dance Blessington Adult Counselling, Adolescent Counselling & low-cost counselling for adults Call today for more information on 0872362955 or check us on Instagram or our website www.healersdance.com
Learning Support Extra Help for Students Dyslexia / Dyscalculia– all ages English / Irish / Maths 1st – 6th Class Irish / English to Leaving Cert Assumpta 0872068176
Newsletter 11th May 2025. Issue 1546
Mass intentions in Blessington Patrick (Paddy) Birmingham RD.
Saturday: Peter& Mary Murphy…A, Pat Kelly…A, Jack Boothman…A, Robert Hennessy…A, Keith Brown…A
Sunday: Lela & Malachy Slevin…A, Beth Halligan…A, Maryann McDonald…A, Jane & Jim Flynn…A
Monday: Mass for the Sick & those in Hospital
Tuesday: Special Intentions Mass, Kathleen Monnaghan…RD
Wednesday: Ken Kelly…A, James McHugh…A, Peter O Keefe…A
Thursday:Blessington Deceased Card List
Friday: Pat Patterson…A, Micheal Skelly…RD
Feast Days – 13th May – Our Lady of Fatima. Our Lady of Fatima refers to the Marian apparitions witnessed by three children in Fatima, Portugal in 1917. The children, Lúcia dos Santos and her cousins Jacinta and Francisco Marto, reported seeing the Blessed Virgin Mary, who revealed messages and requested prayers for world peace. The apparitions took place on the 13th of each month from May to October 1917. She urged all, to pray constantly for the conversion of sinners. Before he became Pope Benedict XVI, then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger said that the central message of Fatima is what the Church has always taught: prayer, penance, and conversion. 16th May – St Brendan. St Brendan was a Kerryman who was born in 486. He studied at Clonard under Finnian. His name is connected with many places in Kerry such as Ardfert and Mount Brandon. He visited Scotland and reached the Hebrides and possibly areas beyond. Brendan the Navigator is known as the patron saint of sailors and the United States Navy. He is the patron of those who are afraid because he himself was fearless in setting out into uncharted water and in uncertain circumstances. He founded a monastery in Clonfert in 568 and died there in 578.
Women’s Breakfast Blessington & Valleymount Parishes Our next Breakfast will be on Saturday May 17th From 9.30-11am All are welcome
Family Mass Followed by Refreshments in the Coimin Centre After 10am Mass on Sunday 18th May All Are Welcome
Date for your Diary The Annual Blessing of the Graves & Cemetery Mass will take place in Burgage Cemetery on Sunday 18th May 2025 at 3 pm
Dates for your Diary Healing Mass Church of Our Lady Blessington Saturday May 24th Saturday September 13th Saturday December 13th All Masses will take place at 11am All are welcome
Minister of Eucharist – May 2025 Church of Our Lady Blessington SAT 6PM: Ann Hanlon & Frank Hanlon SUNDAY 10AM: Kay Clarke & Mary McHugh
Pray & Play Group In the Coimin Centre, Every Wed 2.45pm to 4.30pm. For children of all ages with their parents, grandparents, guardians. Contact Áine 086 107 0480
Rosary & Holy Hour The Holy Hour with Rosary and Adoration will be at 7pm every Wed for the duration of the Summer months.
Blessington Parish Lotto Numbers on 25th April: 7,9,13,29. €25 Winner: Bernard Wilcox. Next Jackpot €3000.
Popes Intentions for May 2025 FOR WORKING CONDITIONS Let us pray that through work, each person might find fulfilment, families might be sustained in dignity, and that society might be humanised.
Prayer to the Virgin Mary for the Month of May O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me, That you are my Mother and my protector. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart To aid me in my need. Amen
Prayer to Our Lady of Fatima Our Lady of Fatima, Today, we pray for an end to the suffering and injustice that plague so many parts of the world. Through the power of the Lord, you performed a miracle at Fatima and made the sun dance for thousands of people to see. Please intercede for those who are suffering. Amen.
PRAYER OF ST. BRENDAN “Help me to journey beyond the familiar and into the unknown. Give me the faith to leave old ways and break fresh ground with You. Christ of the mysteries, I trust You to be stronger than each storm within me. I will trust in the darkness and know that my times, even now, are in Your hand. Tune my spirit to the music of heaven, and somehow, make my obedience count for You.” Amen
A Prayer for our Parish Heavenly Father, Bless our Church and our parish, And all the good work that goes on in them. May all who are Christians live and work together for the good of each other and the glory of your Name. May those who do not know you be brought by our example to a loving knowledge and peace with you. Amen
Pilgrimage for the Jubilee year 2025. Pilgrimage is an important component of a Jubilee year. Many travel abroad for pilgrimage, but a pilgrimage can also take place with the abundant Christian locations we have within our own Diocese. An exhibition ‘Pockets of Hope’ has been set up in the four Jubilee Churches in our Archdiocese: -St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral, Marlborough Street. -Our Lady of Lourdes, Sean McDermott Street. -Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, City Quay. -St. Andrew’s Church, Westland Row. There is a further display in St. Kevin’s Parish Church, Glendalough.
The Jubilee Prayer Father in heaven, may the faith you have given us in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother, and the flame of charity enkindled in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, reawaken in us the blessed hope for the coming of your Kingdom. May your grace transform us into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel. May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos in the sure expectation of a new heaven and a new earth, when, with the powers of Evil vanquished, your glory will shine eternally. May the grace of the Jubilee reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope, a yearning for the treasures of heaven. May that same grace spread the joy and peace of our Redeemer throughout the earth. To you our God, eternally blessed, be glory and praise for ever. Amen
Ballymore Eustace & Hollywood Lourdes 4 Nights Pilgrimage. 12th August – 16th August 2025, €795 per person sharing (Full Board – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) 12th August 2025 Dublin –Lourdes, 07:45 – 10:55. 16th August 2025 Lourdes – Dublin, 09:25 – 10:35 Your Lourdes package includes: Transport & Accommodation ✓ Return flights Dublin to Lourdes ✓ 10kg Baggage allowance to be checked in. ✓ Transfer on arrival from Lourdes airport to your hotel with guided assistance ✓ 4 nights in the 4* Hotel Astrid ✓ Free Wi-Fi in the hotel ✓ Breakfast, Lunch and Evening meal served each day at hotel – as per pricing above. 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners. ✓ Services of Marian Pilgrimages Tours representative and professional English-speaking guide throughout the pilgrimage ✓ Luxury air-conditioned coach throughout the itinerary ✓ All airport & local City taxes Tours & Religious Programme ✓ Full religious programme organised by Marian Pilgrimages with a complete programme of sightseeing and visits to sites of interest. ✓ Mass daily & Spiritual activities Not Included Single Room Supplement €40 per night Comprehensive Travel Insurance €30. Extra €30 for pilgrims over 85 years Optional excursions Please contact Ballymore Eustace Parish Office Secretary Frances, 045 864114 Email, ballymoreeustaceparish@gmail.com Hollywood Parish Secretary Tina, 045 864528 Email,hwparishoffice@gmail.com
Thought of the Week We hand over our worries to God and he hands over his blessings to us.
CARE OF THE EARTH Use rechargeable batteries Batteries are extremely dangerous for the environment and, unfortunately, only a fraction of these batteries gets to be recycled. The rest is thrown away, becoming a hazardous enemy of the environment. Two or three sets of rechargeable batteries along with a charger would prevent this from happening. The initial investment will definitely pay off shortly.
Table Tennis Club. If anyone is interested in helping to set up a table tennis club for children please contact the parish office with your details. Call 045 865327 between 9am & 1pm
We are having FREE gardening classes in the Stables, Valleymount every Tuesday from the 8th of April till the end of May from 14.45 until 16.45 (except for Easter holidays). They will be run by a very experienced teacher from Kildare and Wicklow Education Board. All seeds, compost and top soil will be provided free of charge and all plants grown can be taken home. The course will cover flower and vegetable growing as well as lawn care. Hope to see you there.
The West Wicklow Chamber Music Festival- returns for its flagship festival from 8th-18th May 2025 with its most ambitious and exciting programme to date! Over the course of two long weekends, the festival will deliver an inspired and varied selection of concerts at Russborough House, St Mary’s Church and the Tramway Theatre, Blessington, Co Wicklow. The festival also continues its extensive education and outreach programme in local West Wicklow schools in the build-up to the festival, this year built around a new family-friendly festival commission entitled “Farmyard Carnival.” Thursday 8th May 8pm Ruth Gibson (viola) & Fiachra Garvey (piano). Friday 9th May 8pm Trio Isimsiz. Saturday 10th May 1pm Robert Finegan trio (saxophone, soprano & piano). Saturday 10th May 8pm – United Strings of Europe & Gandini Juggling. Sunday 11th May 3:30pm Sean Shibe (acoustic & electric guitar). Thursday 15th May 8pm Cassiopeia Wind Quintet. Friday 16th May 8pm Van Kuijk String Quartet. Saturday 17th May 8pm Julian Bliss Septet Music in Film – Jazz in Hollywood. Sunday 18th May 11am & 1pm Farmyard Carnival Family Concerts. For full details see westwicklowfestival.com
Volunteer Opportunity Join our Monthly Social Club! Hosted by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. The Coimin Centre, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. Last Friday of every month Starting 30 May Just 2 hours of your time We’re looking for warm, friendly volunteers to help create a welcoming space for people living with dementia. Interested? Contact Teresa Nagle at 085 870 6852 or email teresa.glover@alzheimer.ie
Blessington GAA are hosting an Irish Conversation Circle (Ciorcal Comhrá) commencing Tues 13 May – 17 June in Blessington Library @7.30pm – 8.15pm for 6 weeks. Join us for a chat “as Gaeilge.” No registration required. Free to attend. For information call Noreen 0872858375.
Social Dancing. Enjoy an evening of dancing to Unity In Donard Community Hall Saturday 17th May 9pm -12am. All Welcome
Blessington Library (045) 891 740 Chess Club for children Every Friday from 3 pm No booking required. English Conversation Group Tuesdays 12 – 2 pm Thursdays 5 -7 pm No booking required.
Blessington Community Employment Vacancies These are developmental opportunities, no experience necessary. 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.
St Mary’s Church Caretaker: This is a developmental opportunity, no experience necessary. Ref Number: 2381875 Valleymount GAA Caretaker: Duties will include but not limited to: Grass cutting and pitch maintenance, Some cleaning duties. Ref Number: 2381878 Blessington Greenway Caretaker: Duties to include but not restricted to grass cutting, verge and tree maintenance. Ref Number: 2386069 Hollywood Community Center Caretaker: Duties to include but not limited to: General light maintenance. Some cleaning duties. Ref Number: 2386070
Learning Support Extra Help For Students Dyslexia / Dyscalculia– all ages English / Irish / Maths 1st – 6th Class Irish / English to Leaving Cert Assumpta 0872068176
BLESSINGTON LIBRARY WRITERS’ GROUP. Have you ever fancied putting pen to paper, perhaps a memoir of times past, a Scandi noir set in West Wicklow, maybe a sonnet or a Limerick? Then we’ve got you. Meet a like-minded bunch of scribblers on the second Thursday of every month in Blessington Library, from 7:00pm to 8:00pm. Just bring a pen, a notebook and an open mind. No experience necessary, we all started somewhere. Contact Blessington Library at 045 891 740 or email Ray at mako.enmity.1d@icloud.com for further information. NEXT DATE –TUESDAY 10TH APRIL 2025 Blesssingtonlib@wicklowcoco.ie
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.
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
Blessington U3A are pleased to announce our next talk Speaker: Lt. Colonel (retired) Ray Lane Title: “Only a Soldier Knows” Date: Tue 20th May at 10.30am Venue: Avon Hotel, Blessington All are welcome Non-members €5 per person.
Blessington Carboot Sunday 25th May. St. Kevin’s Community Centre on Main Street. 8am to 4pm. Free Carparking. Toilets Teas / Coffee. Stalls €10. 0860752072.
Supervalu Blessington Communion & Confirmation Cakes Made to order Please call-in store to enquire
Are you feeling every Muscle Ache and Pain? Are you struggling Lifting the Kids or Sitting at a Desk in Work? Have you got Chronic Muscle or Joint Pain? And struggling to perform Simple Day-to-Day Tasks? We have just opened a new local Sports & Holistic Therapy Clinic. Fully qualified ITEC, fully insured and well experienced Therapist. Looking forward to welcoming all our new clients today. Phone Jennifer: 087 9021099.
STRUGGLING WITH INVOICES, OVERDUE PAYMENTS OR PAYROLL HEADACHES? I can help! Whether on-site or remotely, I’ll streamline your office processes with simple, efficient procedures—so you can focus on growing your business and serving your clients. I help small businesses stay organised and financially secure by providing flexible, ad hoc support in office administration and accounts. No job too small. Contact Andy 0876278650 or email
New local maintenance/ landscaping business available for all your gardening needs. Planting, mowing, mulching, cutbacks, etc. please call Shane on 0851279740 or email hollywoodlandscaping@hotmail.com
BLESSINGTON BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP Grow Your Business with Exclusive Networking Opportunities Are you looking to expand your business, gain local and nationwide support, and build valuable professional relationships? We are here to help you gain access to local and national business connections, professional support/collaboration and build a competitive edge in your industry. 0876278650 Andy [bni.ie] Business Networking Ireland Website
Blessington Taxi Phone Greg 087 2626 393
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
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
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
Tomphibbs.ie Kiln-Dried Firewood Standard bag from €110 Large bag from €180 Larch, birch, hornbeam, or ash available. Call 01-2118469 Delivery charge – €20 per order
Niall Kearns Building & Roofing Contractor 086 274 6969 nkbuildandroof@gmail.com Building New Homes, Extensions, Sunrooms Attic Conversions, Renovations, Chimney Repairs Roofing New Roofs, All Roof Repairs Flat Roofs, Gutter Repairs Roof Replacement, PVC Fascia & Soffit All Work Fully Guaranteed
JP&M Doyle What’s Your Property Worth? Talk to us today for your free-Market Appraisal Specializing In Residential Town & Country Homes Development & Agricultural Land Commercial Property Lettings, Valuations. 2025 is your year to make it happen! With high demand and a lack of supply, now is the perfect time to maximise your property’s value. www.jpmdoyle.ie Tel: 045-865568
Local Professional Painting Services Also can do all other projects in your garden or house. Contact 087 1046654 paintnbuild10@gmail.com
Patricias Nails Blessington Now Re-Open New Clients Welcome BIAB Removal & Redo Including Colour €45, Including French €50
WhatsApp 087-2234005 Find me on Instagram @patricias_nails_blessington
Professional Tree Care Tree pruning, Tree Removal, Emergency tree works, Hedge Maintenance We are your local tree service, with over 15 years in the tree industry. Fully qualified & insured. Call Shane Keogh 0833846287 Email info@protree.ie
R Noone Groundworks LTD Groundworks, Mulching, sawing, tree shears, Site Clearance, Concrete Works 087-6234977 Robbie7550@gmail.
Newsletter 4th MAy 2025. Issue 1545
Mass intentions in Blessington Bishop Brendan Comiskey SS CC.
Saturday: Mary, Kevin & Geraldine Sheils…A, Molly & Charlie Keogh…A, Kay Fennell…A, May & Andy Metcalfe…A, Gerry Hayes…A, Teresa McGuire…A, James McGuire…Rem, John McGuire…Rem
Sunday: Mary Keogh…A, Jimmy & Charlie Keogh…Rem, Sean O Brien…A, Breda Mulry…A, John Mulry…Rem
Monday: Mass for the Sick & those in Hospital
Tuesday: Ann Mockler…RD, Breda Heaney…RD, Bridget McDonald…A
Wednesday: Get Well Intention, Evelyn O Donnell …RD
Thursday: Larry Egan …RD, Anna Flood…RD
Friday: Bernadette Peelo…RD, John McConville…RD
Feast Days – 5th May – Blessed Edmund Rice Blessed Edmund Rice (1762-1844) came from Callan, Co. Kilkenny. After his young wife’s early death, he sold his possessions and dedicated his life to the education of the poor. To advance the work, he gathered other like-minded men who took religious vows together to work for the Catholic education of boys. He is a model of patient and cheerful acceptance of the sufferings God sends, a true lay apostle and a deeply committed religious. 8th May – Blessed John Sullivan Blessed John Sullivan was born in Eccles Street, Dublin, on 8 May 1861 and baptised in St George’s Church of Ireland, Temple Street, and was brought up in the Christian tradition of his father. He went to Portara Royal School in Enniskillen and then studied classics and law at Trinity College, Dublin, and at Lincoln’s Inn, London. At the age of thirty-five he was received into the Roman Catholic Church and returned to Dublin, living a very simple lifestyle. He entered the Society of Jesus in 1900, was ordained priest in 1907 and then spent the greater part of his life at Clongowes Wood College, Co. Kildare. His reputation for holiness and as a person of prayer spread rapidly and he was always available to the sick, the poor and anyone in need. He died 19 February 1933. His declaration as blessed on 13th May 2017 at St Francis Xavier Church, Gardiner Street, Dublin, was the first ever beatification celebrated in Ireland.
Trócaire Box Collection Please return your Trócaire boxes to the Parish before Thursday 8th May 2025.
Women’s Breakfast Blessington & Valleymount Parishes Our next Breakfast will be on Saturday May 17th From 9.30-11am All are welcome
Family Mass Followed by Refreshments in the Coimin Centre After 10am Mass on Sunday 18th May All Are Welcome
Date for your Diary The Annual Blessing of the Graves & Cemetery Mass will take place in Burgage Cemetery on Sunday 18th May 2025 at 3 pm
Dates for your Diary Healing Mass Church of Our Lady Blessington Saturday May 24th Saturday September 13th Saturday December 13th All Masses will take place at 11am All are welcome
Minister of Eucharist – May 2025 Church of Our Lady Blessington SAT 6PM: Ann Hanlon & Frank Hanlon SUNDAY 10AM: Kay Clarke & Mary McHugh
Pray & Play Group In the Coimin Centre, Every Wed 2.45pm to 4.30pm. For children of all ages with their parents, grandparents, guardians. Contact Áine 086 107 0480
Rosary & Holy Hour The Holy Hour with Rosary and Adoration will be at 7pm every Wed for the duration of the Summer months.
Blessington Parish Lotto Numbers on 17th April:3,8,16,25. €25 Winner: Anna Nagle. Next Jackpot €3000.
Blessington Parish Lotto Numbers on 25th April: 7,9,13,29. €25 Winner: Bernard Wilcox. Next Jackpot €3000.
Congratulations to the Winners of the April Valleymount and Lacken Draw. Sean Ascough, Tina & Aidan Cruise, Pat & Marie Mahon, Anne Shirran. Kim & Michael Nolan, Maureen Phibbs
Thank You We want to say a sincere word of thanks to Tony, Regina and Gordon Clarke for their very generous donation to the parish for Easter. The Cross which we used for solemn veneration on Good Friday was donated was carved at a week’s notice. It is a work of art, the work of craftsmen, ideally suited to lifting our minds and hearts to God. May the Lord continue to bless them.
Popes Intentions for May 2025 FOR WORKING CONDITIONS Let us pray that through work, each person might find fulfilment, families might be sustained in dignity, and that society might be humanised.
Rivers do not drink their own water; trees do not eat their own fruit; the sun does not shine on itself and flowers do not spread their own fragrance for themselves. Living for others is a rule of nature. We are born to help each other, no matter how difficult it is. Life is good when you are happy; but much better when others are happy because of you.” Pope Francis
Please Pray for the College of Cardinals as they enter the Conclave to elect Our new Pope.
BLESSINGTON UNION of PARISHES St Mary’s Church Blessington, Co. Wicklow. 24th April 2025
Dear Fr. Gerry
On behalf of the Church of Ireland parishioners of St. Mary’s, Blessington, we wish to offer our sincere condolences to you and your congregation on the death of Pope Francis.
Pope Francis will be remembered as a man of deep humility and devotion. He was particularly empathic towards the poor and marginalised. His concern for the environment has been inspirational to many, not least through his Encyclical,
Laudato Si.
There is great sadness across the world as the loss of such an understanding and compassionate leader.
We join you in your grief.
Rev’d Niall Stafford & Joan Griffith
Prayer for the Conclave. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Heavenly Father, we pray in union with the whole Church for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Cardinals. May the Princes of the Church listen attentively to Your Spirit during the conclave.
Prayer to the Virgin Mary for the Month of May O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me, That you are my Mother and my protector. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart To aid me in my need. Amen
Thought of the Week Challenges are what makes life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful. Joshua J. Marine.
CARE OF THE EARTH Use matches instead of plastic lighters Opt for wood chopping boards instead of plastic ones.
Ballymore Eustace & Hollywood Lourdes 4 Nights Pilgrimage. 12th August – 16th August 2025, €795 per person sharing (Full Board – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) 12th August 2025 Dublin –Lourdes, 07:45 – 10:55. 16th August 2025 Lourdes – Dublin, 09:25 – 10:35 Your Lourdes package includes: Transport & Accommodation ✓ Return flights Dublin to Lourdes ✓ 10kg Baggage allowance to be checked in. ✓ Transfer on arrival from Lourdes airport to your hotel with guided assistance ✓ 4 nights in the 4* Hotel Astrid ✓ Free Wi-Fi in the hotel ✓ Breakfast, Lunch and Evening meal served each day at hotel – as per pricing above. 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners. ✓ Services of Marian Pilgrimages Tours representative and professional English-speaking guide throughout the pilgrimage ✓ Luxury air-conditioned coach throughout the itinerary ✓ All airport & local City taxes Tours & Religious Programme ✓ Full religious programme organised by Marian Pilgrimages with a complete programme of sightseeing and visits to sites of interest. ✓ Mass daily & Spiritual activities Not Included Single Room Supplement €40 per night Comprehensive Travel Insurance €30. Extra €30 for pilgrims over 85 years Optional excursions Please contact Ballymore Eustace Parish Office Secretary Frances, 045 864114 Email, ballymoreeustaceparish@gmail.com Hollywood Parish Secretary Tina, 045 864528 Email,hwparishoffice@gmail.com
The Jubilee Prayer Father in heaven, may the faith you have given us in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother, and the flame of charity enkindled in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, reawaken in us the blessed hope for the coming of your Kingdom.
May your grace transform us into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel. May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos in the sure expectation of a new heaven and a new earth, when, with the powers of Evil vanquished, your glory will shine eternally.
May the grace of the Jubilee reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope, a yearning for the treasures of heaven. May that same grace spread the joy and peace of our Redeemer throughout the earth. To you our God, eternally blessed, be glory and praise for ever. Amen
Pilgrimage for the Jubilee year 2025 Pilgrimage is an important component of a Jubilee year. Many travel abroad for pilgrimage, but a pilgrimage can also take place with the abundant Christian locations we have within our own Diocese. An exhibition ‘Pockets of Hope’ has been set up in the four Jubilee Churches in our Archdiocese: -St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral, Marlborough Street. -Our Lady of Lourdes, Sean McDermott Street. -Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, City Quay. -St. Andrew’s Church, Westland Row. There is a further display in St. Kevin’s Parish Church, Glendalough.
We are having FREE gardening classes in the Stables, Valleymount every Tuesday from the 8th of April till the end of May from 14.45 until 16.45 (except for Easter holidays). They will be run by a very experienced teacher from Kildare and Wicklow Education Board. All seeds, compost and top soil will be provided free of charge and all plants grown can be taken home. The course will cover flower and vegetable growing as well as lawn care. Hope to see you there.
A Prayer for our Parish Heavenly Father, Bless our Church and our parish, And all the good work that goes on in them. May all who are Christians live and work together for the good of each other and the glory of your Name. May those who do not know you be brought by our example to a loving knowledge and peace with you. Amen
Féile an Chnocáin Programme of Events: Thursday 1st May: 7:30pm – Ballymore Connect Choir (Doors open @ 6:45pm) St. Joseph’s Church, Valleymount. Friday 2nd May: 7:30pm – Tales of a Drowned Valley: The Flooding of the Blessington Lake Talk and Slideshow St. Joseph’s Community Hall Valleymount 8:30pm – Live Music in Cullen’s Lakeview Lounge, Ballyknockan Saturday 3rd May: 11am – “Top O’ The Hill” – Guided Hike up Silséan Meet at Cullen’s Car Park 10:45am 3pm – Stonecutting & Heritage Museum – McEvoy’s Quarry, Ballyknockan 8pm – Live Music in Cullen’s Lakeview Lounge, Ballyknockan. Sunday 4th May: 1pm – Family Fun Day, Picnic area, Ballyknockan. 7:30pm – Live Music in Cullen’s Lakeview Lounge. Monday 5th May: 2pm – Open Trad Session – Cullen’s Lakeview Lounge 4pm Live Music – Cullen’s Lakeview Lounge.
The West Wicklow Chamber Music Festival- returns for its flagship festival from 8th-18th May 2025 with its most ambitious and exciting programme to date! Over the course of two long weekends, the festival will deliver an inspired and varied selection of concerts at Russborough House, St Mary’s Church and the Tramway Theatre, Blessington, Co Wicklow. The festival also continues its extensive education and outreach programme in local West Wicklow schools in the build-up to the festival, this year built around a new family-friendly festival commission entitled “Farmyard Carnival.” Thursday 8th May 8pm Ruth Gibson (viola) & Fiachra Garvey (piano). Friday 9th May 8pm Trio Isimsiz. Saturday 10th May 1pm Robert Finegan trio (saxophone, soprano & piano). Saturday 10th May 8pm – United Strings of Europe & Gandini Juggling. Sunday 11th May 3:30pm Sean Shibe (acoustic & electric guitar). Thursday 15th May 8pm Cassiopeia Wind Quintet. Friday 16th May 8pm Van Kuijk String Quartet. Saturday 17th May 8pm Julian Bliss Septet Music in Film – Jazz in Hollywood. Sunday 18th May 11am & 1pm Farmyard Carnival Family Concerts. For full details see westwicklowfestival.com
Volunteer Opportunity Join our Monthly Social Club! Hosted by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. The Coimin Centre, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. Last Friday of every month Starting 30 May Just 2 hours of your time We’re looking for warm, friendly volunteers to help create a welcoming space for people living with dementia. Interested? Contact Teresa Nagle at 085 870 6852 or email teresa.glover@alzheimer.ie
Blessington GAA are hosting an Irish Conversation Circle (Ciorcal Comhrá) commencing Tues 13 May – 17 June in Blessington Library @7.30pm – 8.15pm for 6 weeks. Join us for a chat “as Gaeilge.” No registration required. Free to attend. For information call Noreen 0872858375.
Social Dancing. Enjoy an evening of dancing to Unity In Donard Community Hall Saturday 17th May 9pm -12am. All Welcome
Blessington Library (045) 891 740 Chess Club for children Every Friday from 3 pm No booking required. English Conversation Group Tuesdays 12 – 2 pm Thursdays 5 -7 pm No booking required.
Blessington Community Employment Vacancies These are developmental opportunities, no experience necessary. 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.
St Mary’s Church Caretaker: This is a developmental opportunity, no experience necessary. Ref Number: 2381875 Valleymount GAA Caretaker: Duties will include but not limited to: Grass cutting and pitch maintenance, Some cleaning duties. Ref Number: 2381878 Blessington Greenway Caretaker: Duties to include but not restricted to grass cutting, verge and tree maintenance. Ref Number: 2386069 Hollywood Community Center Caretaker: Duties to include but not limited to: General light maintenance. Some cleaning duties. Ref Number: 2386070
Learning Support Extra Help For Students Dyslexia / Dyscalculia– all ages English / Irish / Maths 1st – 6th Class Irish / English to Leaving Cert Assumpta 0872068176
BLESSINGTON LIBRARY WRITERS’ GROUP. Have you ever fancied putting pen to paper, perhaps a memoir of times past, a Scandi noir set in West Wicklow, maybe a sonnet or a Limerick? Then we’ve got you. Meet a like-minded bunch of scribblers on the second Thursday of every month in Blessington Library, from 7:00pm to 8:00pm. Just bring a pen, a notebook and an open mind. No experience necessary, we all started somewhere. Contact Blessington Library at 045 891 740 or email Ray at mako.enmity.1d@icloud.com for further information. NEXT DATE –TUESDAY 10TH APRIL 2025 Blesssingtonlib@wicklowcoco.ie
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.
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
Farm Fresh Duck Eggs €6 for a pack of 12 Call Margaret on 087 9660685
Supervalu Blessington Communion & Confirmation Cakes Made to order Please call-in store to enquire
Are you feeling every Muscle Ache and Pain? Are you struggling Lifting the Kids or Sitting at a Desk in Work? Have you got Chronic Muscle or Joint Pain? And struggling to perform Simple Day-to-Day Tasks? We have just opened a new local Sports & Holistic Therapy Clinic. Fully qualified ITEC, fully insured and well experienced Therapist. Looking forward to welcoming all our new clients today. Phone Jennifer: 087 9021099.
STRUGGLING WITH INVOICES, OVERDUE PAYMENTS OR PAYROLL HEADACHES? I can help! Whether on-site or remotely, I’ll streamline your office processes with simple, efficient procedures—so you can focus on growing your business and serving your clients. I help small businesses stay organised and financially secure by providing flexible, ad hoc support in office administration and accounts. No job too small. Contact Andy 0876278650 or email
New local maintenance/ landscaping business available for all your gardening needs. Planting, mowing, mulching, cutbacks, etc. please call Shane on 0851279740 or email hollywoodlandscaping@hotmail.com
BLESSINGTON BUSINESS NETWORKING GROUP Grow Your Business with Exclusive Networking Opportunities Are you looking to expand your business, gain local and nationwide support, and build valuable professional relationships? We are here to help you gain access to local and national business connections, professional support/collaboration and build a competitive edge in your industry. 0876278650 Andy [bni.ie] Business Networking Ireland Website
Blessington Taxi Phone Greg 087 2626 393
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
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
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
Tomphibbs.ie Kiln-Dried Firewood Standard bag from €110 Large bag from €180 Larch, birch, hornbeam, or ash available. Call 01-2118469 Delivery charge – €20 per order
Niall Kearns Building & Roofing Contractor 086 274 6969 nkbuildandroof@gmail.com Building New Homes, Extensions, Sunrooms Attic Conversions, Renovations, Chimney Repairs Roofing New Roofs, All Roof Repairs Flat Roofs, Gutter Repairs Roof Replacement, PVC Fascia & Soffit All Work Fully Guaranteed
JP&M Doyle What’s Your Property Worth? Talk to us today for your free-Market Appraisal Specializing In Residential Town & Country Homes Development & Agricultural Land Commercial Property Lettings, Valuations. 2025 is your year to make it happen! With high demand and a lack of supply, now is the perfect time to maximise your property’s value. www.jpmdoyle.ie Tel: 045-865568
Local Professional Painting Services Also can do all other projects in your garden or house. Contact 087 1046654 paintnbuild10@gmail.com
Patricias Nails Blessington Now Re-Open New Clients Welcome BIAB Removal & Redo Including Colour €45, Including French €50
WhatsApp 087-2234005 Find me on Instagram @patricias_nails_blessington
Professional Tree Care Tree pruning, Tree Removal, Emergency tree works, Hedge Maintenance We are your local tree service, with over 15 years in the tree industry. Fully qualified & insured. Call Shane Keogh 0833846287 Email info@protree.ie
R Noone Groundworks LTD Groundworks, Mulching, sawing, tree shears, Site Clearance, Concrete Works 087-6234977 Robbie7550@gmail.