Mass intentions this week

Saturday 6pm: Bernie Dempsey (Months Mind), Barry O’Donnell (Rem)

Sunday 10am: Rose Balfe (A), Ger Keogh (A)

We also Remember

Monday: Mass offered for the Sick & those in Hospital

Tuesday: Michael, Seamus, Kathy & Jim Corry (A), Seamus Keogan (RD)

Wednesday: Denis Barry (A), William Sheppard (RD)

Thursday: Thanksgiving Intentions, Birthday Intentions

Friday: First Friday of the Month. Masses will be offered for all on the November Altar List of the Dead

This week in the Parish:

Saturday 1^st October: Mass times: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken: 7.30pm

Blessing of Pets & Animals in the Car Park of Church of Our Lady, Blessington at 3pm

Sunday 2^nd October: Mass Times: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 11.15am, Crosschapel: 11.30am.

Monday 3^rd October: Care for the Earth: Evening of Prayer & Reflection at 8pm in Church of Our Lady, Blessington.

Tuesday 4^th October: Holy Hour & Adoration 7pm to 8pm in Church of Our Lady.

Wednesday 5th October: Enrolment of children from Gaelscoil na Lochanna, preparing for 1^st Penance & 1^st Communion 7pm in Coimin Centre, Blessington

Thursday 6th October: Enrolment of children from St Mary’s School preparing for 1^st Penance & 1st Communion 7pm in Coimin Centre, Blessington

Evening of Prayer & Reflection for Readers of the Word at 8pm in the Coimin Centre, Blessington. Facilitated by Rosemary Lavelle

The Month of the Rosary: Every Thursday in October the Rosary will be prayed at 12 noon in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Friday 7^th October: First Friday of the Month, Masses will be offered for all on the November Altar List of the Dead

Naas, Sallins, Two Mile House Solemn Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help. In the Church of Our Lady & St David, Naas. Fri 30^th Sept to Sat 8^th October The theme of our Novena is “A Synodal Journey: Walking together in Faith with Hope” At Mass each evening our guest speaker will speak about their work, faith journey & how their faith strengthens them in their ministry & work. (See poster in porch for list of speakers)

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 29th Sept: 3, 11, 17, 23. €25 Winner: Valerie Hamilton. Next Jackpot is €1850

Reminder to Parishioners: our Ulster Bank accounts will be closing shortly. If you donate to the Parish by Standing Order, we would be very appreciative if you could transfer it to our new AIB A/C. Many thanks to all who have already done this. Call the Parish Office for details – 045 865 327

Blessington Community Choir is looking for new members. We learn & perform all sorts of song (soul, rock, pop) in a no pressure community setting. There are no auditions, & no previous experience is required. Just come over, sing in harmony & keep your mind & body joyously stimulated. To join – please fill out this form https://forms.gle/3CFSWAy7KssP4Tyr9 or just come on Thursdays, 8:15pm in Ruth Shine School of Dance studio (above Dunnes).

Ukulele Group Sing-along. It’s time to brush up on those chords! Blessington Library will be hosting monthly Ukulele Sessions on the first Tuesday of the month, led by Rachel Drew of Let’s Sing, sessions will start on 4th October – 7pm to 8pm. The group will sing & play along to popular songs. Some knowledge of the basic chords recommended. Suitable for adults & teens

Need help managing your money & planning a budget? Join us Monday mornings from 9:30am to 12noon at the Blessington Further Education Centre. The course will run from 26^th Sept to 12^th Dec. For more information contact 045 851494 or email abeblessington@kwetb.ie

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

VALES AROUND CLOUGHLEA MINI FESTIVAL 2022 “From The Shoulders Down”,  drama, depicting the life & times of fictional builder’s labourer PJ Mulpeter. Written & performed by Richard Lynch. In Manor Kilbride Community Hall on Sunday 16^th October at 12 noon. Tickets €10.  Refreshments available. To Book contact oldkilbride@gmail.com or 087 965 6257. Presented by Kilbride & Lakeside Music Committee along with Glen Heste Pure Mile.

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

The Blessington Fencing Club Spaces available in the 8-11yrs Beginners Class in St Kevin’s Hall – Fridays 5pm. Only comfortable clothing & runners are needed. Pop in & watch or participate in a free trial lesson. We have a great mixed group of children. Some children don’t enjoy traditional team sports or battle in some way. Every child can be taught to fence. Adult Beginner Classes  starting on Tuesday evenings. Give us a call if you would like to try. Call Lee: 087 676 4183

On Sunday 23rd of October, the woodland trail at Russborough House will be transformed into a place of Halloween fun for all the family. Spooky woodland characters will guide you along the 2.4km looped outdoor walking trail through Russborough woodlands, on your quest to spot as many spooky creatures along the way. Visit the Forge Courtyard to learn about the history of Samhain; visit the Barretstown bus; grab some yummy Halloween treats & hot chocolate in the Russborough Café. Have a fun filled few hours in your best fancy-dress whilst helping raise vital funds local Kildare Children’s Charity, Barretstown. Sign up to take part in our seriously spooky walk; with proceeds from ticket sales supporting Barretstown.   https://www.barretstown.org/boo-for-barretstown-family-halloween-event/

West Wicklow Cancer Support Our group hosts a weekly Mindful soundbath Meditation with Gemma Deeney on Wednesdays at 11am in the Primary Care Centre Blessington. No cost, open to all. Do bring your own cushion, blanket & a friend. If your life has been impacted by cancer through a diagnosis, a family member, friend, or carer we are here for you. Call: 087 4346004 or westwicklow15@gmail.com

Current Blessington Community Employment Vacancies

 West Wicklow Cancer Support: Project Worker. Job Reference: 2245584. Ideal Candidate will have experience in administration. Full training provided. Duties to include, but not limited to: Development of the project. Administration. Advertising & Promotion. Event Planning and Organisation. Typing Letters & Minutes. Work Closely with the Committee. Respond to Calls & Emails. Attend Weekly Meeting. Social Media. (Closing Date: 01/11/2022)

Building Caretaker: St Kevin’s Community Centre. Job Reference: 2245593. This is a developmental opportunity, no experience necessary. Duties will include, but not limited to: General light maintenance. Some cleaning duties. Painting. Assisting in general operations of the centre to include key holding, setting up rooms for meetings etc. Adhere to health and safety. Hall duties. (Closing Date: 08/11/2022)

Building Caretaker: Hollywood Community Centre. Job Reference: 2245591.  This is a developmental opportunity, no experience necessary. Duties will include, but not limited to: Light maintenance. Admin duties. Cleaning. Painting. Assisting with general operations of the centre & this could include key holding, setting up rooms for meetings etc. Adhere to health & safety. Flexible hours required due to the nature of the role to include after hours. Report to reception & or assigned committee member. (Closing Date: 08/11/2022)

Please contact us on 085 252 3563 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.

Chair Yoga Coimin Centre Blessington Now on Mondays From 10:45am to 11:45am. All welcome. Call Patricia: 086 071 7384

Parent & Toddler Group in St Kevin’s Community Centre on Tuesday & Wednesday 10am to12 noon. €4 per family per day

Donard/Glen Daycare is a community based not for profit creche situated in Donard, Co. Wicklow. We are looking for enthusiastic, qualified & highly motivated early educators to join our team. Requirements are: Minimum of QQI Level 5, experience & understanding of Aistear Play Based. Curriculum, Siolta, ELC & SAC regulations. Team player with effective communication & interpersonal skills. Ability to work flexible hours between 7.30am & 6.30pm, 38.5 hours per week. Competitive salary & other benefits available. Contact  admin@donardglendaycare.ie or Manager at 045 404522

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Very Nice Self-Contained Private Office to let at Aran Centre from 1st September 2022. €115 per week all-in. Tel. 087 817 5227.

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

New BRÍ Coffee & Health Bar Located at High Definition Fitness (Across From Aldi). Open Mon – Fri 6am-12pm & 5pm-9pm Sat/Sun 10am-2pm. For Drive Thru, Sit In & Take Away Coffees/Treats & Smoothies.

Guitar Lessons Private Tuition. Contact Greg: 086 275 2005

Blessington Roofing and Guttering. All Roof Repairs Slate Tiles Chimneys Guttering Fully Insured Free Quotations 24/7 Emergency call-out 25 Year Guaranteed Roof Installation and Roof Repairs. Call Today for a free no-obligation quote. 087 379 4038   www.roofrepairsandguttering.ie Email:   roofingr7@gmail.com

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

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

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

Gardening – For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Strimming, etc Phone Mark 085 133 7714 (Greenleaf Garden Care)

Mass intentions this week

Maura Kelly (RD) Cork

Saturday 6pm: Tom & Mary Tivnan (A), Billy Hamilton (A)

Sunday 10am: Mary Smith (A) William Doran (A) Noel Keogh (A)

We also Remember: Tom Fitzharris (A), Charles Doran (A), Catherine Doran (Rem), Maisie Hopkins (A)

Monday: Mass offered for the Sick & those in Hospital

Tuesday: Greg Hand (A), Larry Canavan (RD)

Wednesday: Brian Dillon (RD), Barry O’Donnell (Rem)

Thursday: Intentions Mass, Get Well Mass

Friday: Sean & Annie Newman (A), Denis Barry (RD)

The Crosscare Collection will take place at all Masses this weekend 17^th & 18^th September. This year, Crosscare is looking for help for its Homeless Prevention & Food Poverty Support Services – both of which are coming under increasing demand from people struggling to find accommodation & families coping with increases in fuel prices & the cost of living. This will replace the SHARE (2^nd) collection. Donations may be made online at www.crosscare.ie

Mass Times this weekend:

Saturday 17^th September: Blessington: 6pm, Lacken: 7.30pm

Sunday 18^th September: Blessington: 10am, Manor Kilbride: 11am, Valleymount: 11.15am, Crosschapel: 11.30am.

Tuesday 20^th September: Holy Hour & Adoration 7pm to 8pm in Church of Our Lady.

The Season of Creation

CARE OF THE EARTH – Evening of Prayer & Reflection. Monday 3^rd October at 8pm in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. ALL WELCOME.

BLESSING OF OUR PETS & ANIMALS in the Car Park of Church of Our Lady, Blessington on Saturday 1st October at 3pm

Touch Ireland – Supporting Vulnerable children in “Our World” would like to say a sincere thanks to all who contributed to our recent Flag Day which raised €305.25

St Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Lotto. Numbers drawn on 15^th September: 6, 7, 20, 25. €25 Winner: Breda Sheedy. Next Jackpot is €1775

 Social Dancing in Donard Community Hall on Saturday 17^th September from 9pm to 12 midnight. Music by Michelle Murphy,  Admission €10

Men’s Shed – St Joseph’s Valleymount: We are setting up a Men’s Shed in the building known as the Stables, at the side of the Parochial House Valleymount. We will be open two days a week Monday & Friday 10.30am till 1pm. Our first project will be to set up a market garden in the grounds. You are invited to get involved with this project or if you just want to drop in for a cuppa and a chat. To launch this opening, we are having a social night on Saturday 24th September at 7.30pm in the Stables. Music will be provided by local musicians. All are invited, there will be tea & sandwiches on the night. Hope you can join us!

The Tramway Theatre Committee Are holding their AGM on Tuesday 20th September at 8pm in the Tramway Theatre. This meeting is open to the public & we would like to invite anyone who has an interest in the theatre whether it be as part of the committee or as a casual volunteer to please come along, we would also ask that any group that uses the theatre to please send a representative along on the night.

HOSPICE COFFEE MORNING – A coffee morning in aid of the hospice will be held in Rathmore Hall on Thurs 22^nd September 10am to 2pm. All monies raised goes to St. Brigid’s Hospice, The Curragh.

Culture Night at St. Mary’s Church of Ireland on Friday 23rd Sept from 7pm to 9pm. Free event in celebration of our Culture, in the beauty of St. Mary’s Church of Ireland. (Our thanks to the Archdeacon) With special guests: MACA – courtesy of Blessington Comhaltas (Members of Anuna, Riverdance) and The Millennium Choir. For further Info call: Pat Conlan: 086 075 2072 or Barbara Nolan: 086 104 2533.

Escorted Pilgrimage to Knock 12th October 2022.  €599 pp sharing.  Price includes 4 nights in Knock House Hotel, full board. All entertainment & excursions included. Day trips to Westport, Ballintubber Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Fr. Peyton Centre & National Museum.  Single supplement €100.  Contact Patricia on 087 1890 236 or email knockpilgrimages@gmail.com

BLESSINGTON LIBRARY

Children’s Book Club – Thursday 22^nd Sept at 7pm. Book Club for children aged 10 to12 years. Spaces limited, booking required.

Twinkle Kids Tummy Time – Thursday 22^nd Sept at 11.30am. Katie Fu from Twinkle Kids is joining us for music, movement & a sensory tummy-time experience! For babies 0 to 12 months. Spaces limited, booking required.

An Afternoon of Music – Friday 23^rd Sept at 3pm. To celebrate Culture Night, the students of the Manor Kilbride Music School will perform at the library. Info: 045 891 740

Blessington AFC are looking for players born in 2008 & 2009 to join their exciting under 14 and under 15 squads. Training: Monday & Wednesday (2009) Training: Tuesday & Thursday (2008). Matches every Saturday (2009) & Sunday (2008). Please call 083 870 1926 for info.

Free Parenting Programme Tusla, Child & Family Agency will host a Parents Plus Parenting Programme for parents of Primary School Children in Blessington Library. The programme will run over 8 Wednesdays 10am to 12pm from 5^th October. For info & booking call: Bridie Clancy: 086 380 7917 Email: bridie.clancy@tusla.ie

The National Maternity Hospital – Annual Remembrance Service will take place on October 9 at 3pm in St Andrew’s Church, Westland Row. Contact chaplainber@nmh.ie with enquiries.

Free Parenting Programme Tusla, Child & Family Agency will host a Parents Plus Parenting Programme for parents of Primary School Children in Blessington Library. The programme will run over 8 Wednesdays 10am to 12 noon from Wednesday 5^th October. For further information & to book a place please contact: Bridie Clancy: 086 380 7917 Email: bridie.clancy@tusla.ie

West Wicklow Cancer Support. Our group hosts a weekly Mindful soundbath Meditation with Gemma Deeney on Wednesdays at 11.15am in the Primary Care Centre Blessington. No cost, open to all. Do bring your own cushion, blanket & a friend. If your life has been impacted by cancer through a diagnosis, a family member, friend or carer we are here for you. Contact us on 087 4346004 or westwicklow15@gmail.com

Further Education & Training Centre Blessington Courses starting September 2022. Office Skills, EBusiness, Tourism, Childcare, Healthcare, Horticulture, Employment Skills, SNA Learn new skills or brush up on old skills. Please contact Irene Hayden 086 806 1569 or Karen Townsend 086 850 3833 for more details. Are you interested in Art, Gardening, Computers, or IT?  Morning & evening classes are starting in mid-September. For more information, please drop into the Centre or call 045 891 099.

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 by saving €5 Stay Warm Saving Stamps on the savings card & using the stamps to pay (in full or part payment) for fuel supplies. 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 & Savings Card are only available from Hennessy’s Hardware and SVP Shop. 

Blessington Chess Club Improve your memory & Concentration. Learn Chess. Blessington Academy Starting Summer 2022,  www.facebook.com/chessacademy2022  For All Ages & Levels. Info Email: blessingtonchess@gmail.com

KARE Community Employment Programme Support Workers required for 19.5 hours per week. KARE, BLESSINGTON, Co. Wicklow. No experience necessary. Accredited training will be provided – Funded by DSP. Applicants must be over 21 & in receipt of a qualifying Irish social welfare payment for one year or more. Please contact your local DEASP/Intreo office to check your eligibility. Informal enquiries to Elaine 045 448 700. Give me a call!! Or email me at elaine.nolan@kare.ie

Let’s Sing – Singing classes in Blessington. Women’s singing circle (No experience necessary) Individual singing lessons (children and adults). Baby and toddler sing-along classes. For more info and booking: www.letssing.ie  Phone: Rachel 0876529660 email: info@letssing.ie

Affinity Plus Home Support – are you looking for some support within the comfort of your own home? Affinity Plus provides assistance with:  personal care, medication prompting, companionship and household tasks. Get in touch with us on 045 916 060 to speak with a member of our team today.

Mick’s Mobile Auto Cleaning – Call or text for best service & rates around. Visit my page on Facebook for pictures & reviews. Phone 086 371 2328

SeeThru Solution – Your Local Trustworthy Cleaning Service for Windows, Gutters, Fascia, Pressure Washing, Softwash, Carpet & Upholstery. Call Greg: 085 858 1850

Very Nice Self-Contained Private Office to let at Aran Centre from 1st September 2022. €115 per week all-in. Tel. 087 817 5227.

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

New BRÍ Coffee & Health Bar Located at High Definition Fitness (Across From Aldi). Open Mon – Fri 6am-12pm & 5pm-9pm Sat/Sun 10am-2pm. For Drive Thru, Sit In & Take Away Coffees/Treats & Smoothies.

Guitar Lessons Private Tuition. Contact Greg: 086 275 2005

BRYKO – Shop / Yard Assistant Required Full time Position, Manual Lifting Ability Essential Please Drop in your CV to Emilia or email to bryko.products@gmail.com

Chair Yoga in the Coimin Centre Blessington, Recommencing on Tuesday 13th September from 10:45am to 11:45am All welcome. Call Patricia: 086 071 7384

Community Employment Job: Building Caretaker: Hollywood Community Centre. Job Ref: 2235257. This is a developmental opportunity, no experience necessary. Duties will include, but not limited to: Light maintenance, Admin duties, Cleaning. Painting, assisting with general operations of the centre & this could include keyholding, setting up rooms for meetings etc. Adhere to health and safety. Flexible hours required due to the nature of the role to include after hours. Report to reception & or assigned committee member. Please contact us on 085 252 3563 or martincahill@blessingtonce.ie Please note *You must be in receipt of a social welfare payment for the last 12 months to qualify for this position. *

Community Employment Job: Building Caretaker: St Kevin’s Community Centre. Job Reference: 2235231. This is a developmental opportunity, no experience necessary.  Duties will include, but not limited to: General light maintenance. Some cleaning duties. Painting. Assisting in general operations of the centre to include keyholding, setting up rooms for meetings etc. Adhere to health and safety. Hall duties. Please contact us on 085 252 3563 or martincahill@blessingtonce.ie Please note *You must be in receipt of a social welfare payment for the last 12 months to qualify for this position. *

Blessington Roofing and Guttering. All Roof Repairs Slate Tiles Chimneys Guttering Fully Insured Free Quotations 24/7 Emergency call-out 25 Year Guaranteed Roof Installation and Roof Repairs. Call Today for a free no-obligation quote. 087 379 4038   www.roofrepairsandguttering.ie Email:   roofingr7@gmail.com

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

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

U – STORE – IT – HOLLYWOOD – Convenient Storage Units to Rent. Individual Lockups. CCTV on All Units. 15 X 10 and 25 X 15. Suitable for Furniture etc Call: 087 356 7601

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

Gardening – For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Strimming, etc Phone Mark 085 133 7714 (Greenleaf Garden Care)