►All children in 3rd Class are invited to 10am Mass in, Blessington for a special blessing & remembrance of their 1st Communion last year.
►1st Communion Preparation Mass at 11.15am in Valleymount
►Bridge Tournament hosted by St Mary’s College Past Pupils Union, Lawlor’s Hotel, Naas at 2pm €10 per person. Raffle & Prizes. All funds will go to the school. Parking will be available at the school
Monday 27th January 2020
►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)
►Blessington Community Walking Group. Walks from the Coimín Centre on Monday (ex-bank holidays) & Thursday at 7pm. All levels catered for & welcome. Find us on Facebook
Tuesday 28thJanuary 2020
►Citizens Information Centre in Blessington Library from 1pm to 4pm. Legal advice service on 1st & 3rd Tues of month by appointment
►Eucharistic Adoration from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Blessington Church.
Wednesday 29th January 2020
►The Citizens Information Centre is open in Blessington Library today 10am to 12.30pm.
►The Rosary will be offered at 7.30pm for the intentions of our families in Blessington Church
►Christian Meditation Group meet in the Mass Centre in Brittas from 11am. All welcome
Thursday 30th January 2020
► West Wicklow Cancer Support monthly drop in “Manifestation Meditation” hosted by Gemma Deeny of Yogagym at 7.30pm in the Coimin Centre, Blessington. No charge, all welcome. Find us on Facebook, call 087 434 6004 or email westwicklow15@gmail.com
Mass Intentions this Week
Saturday 6pm: Peggy Howlin (A) Jim & Maisie Browne (A) Sean & Betty Tutty (A) Jimmy Hanlon (Butterhill) (A) Jim & Mary Kavanagh (A)
Sunday 10am: Paddy Owens (RD) Mary Hoey (RD)
We also Remember the following: Christopher Flanagan (A) Lil Horan (A) Bernadette Dunne (A) Denis Ryall (A)
Monday: Mass for those on list for Sick
Tuesday: Winnie McDermott (A) Denis Ryall (A) Spec Living Intentions
Wednesday: Denis Kelleher (1st A) Barry O’Donnell (Rem)
Thursday: Get Well Mass, Spec Intentions
Friday: Anne Ryan (RD) Joe Dunne (RD)
Children’s Church is back!! NEW time 6pm Mass in Blessington on Saturday 1st February
Blessing of Throats
Saturday 1st in Lacken at 7.30pm
Sunday 2nd February Valleymount at 11.15am
Monday 3rd February,
Blessington, & Crosschapel
Special broadcast of Knock Mass from Rome. Mass will be celebrated by Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome this Sunday 26th January at 9am (Irish time) It will be broadcast “live” on the EWTN channel on SKY 588 or Virgin Media 815
Visitation of the Sick: If there are any parishioners ill, at home or in hospital who would like a visit from a priest, please contact the Parish Office to let us know and to make arrangements 045 865 327
Applications for Junior Infant places in Sept 2020 in St Mary’s Junior School should be submitted by Friday 24th January 2020. Forms are available from our school website stmarysjns.weebly.com, from the school office between 9am & 3pm Mon – Fri. or from the parish office (9am to 1 Mon – Fri). Completed forms may be dropped into the school office or emailed to bsec@live 045 865 501.
St Brigid’s N.S.Manor Kilbride are now accepting enrolments for all pupils wishing to start in September. Please contact the school office on 01-4582550 for an enrolment form.
Lacken NS are currently accepting enrolments for September 2020. Enrolment forms are available on www.lackenns.com or from the school, call 045 865 086 and we will post one out to you. Lacken NS also runs a pre-school & an after-school service. Please join us at our open day on Wednesday 12th February from 11am to 12.15pm. All are welcome.
a new fund-raising initiative, the money raised will be used to directly support our schools & our parish. You can help in a real, practical way by joining & your support is greatly appreciated.
Carmel Dillon, Principal, St. Mary’s JNS
Gerry Brown, Principal, St. Mary’s SNS
Fr. Richard P.P. Blessington Parish
Full details of how to join, next week
MEMBER NOTICE – Blessington & District Credit Union Limited, Annual General Meeting will take place on 30th January at 8 pm in The Avon, Blessington Lakeshore, Burgage, Blessington, Co Wicklow. We look forward to seeing you on the night
TRY IT OUT, Blessington Mini-Rugby for Tots is looking for new members to play fun & games every Sat @ 10:15am at St Kevin’s Hall, Main St, Blessington (opposite Vincent’s Charity Shop). Ages 3-5 years.
Date for your Diary – Blessington GAA & LGFA Registration night Tues 28th Jan 7pm to 9pm in the clubhouse. Players need to be registered to play & be insured. 2020 sees the launch of Blessington GAA Healthy Club Programme.
Hollywood Friendship Club every Wed from 2.15pm to 4.15pm in the Hollywood Centre. New members welcome
West Wicklow General Election Debate. We need West Wicklow & the issues that affect the people here to be a priority for our incoming TDs! Community Pool for West Wicklow have invited all General Election candidates running in Wicklow to take part in a debate to tell us how they are going to represent us. Come along to The Avon on Tuesday February 4th at 8:15pm to have your voice heard & make sure that West Wicklow is firmly on the agenda for our next TDs. For more info or to get involved please email us at poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com
Adult Fencing Classes on Tuesdays from 8pm in St Kevin’s Hall. Fencing is a fun sport & all ages & levels of fitness can enjoy. No special equipment required only comfortable clothes & trainers. All are welcome to pop along & give it a go with no obligation. Call 087 676 4183 if you need any additional information
The Parish Book Club next meeting will be on Thurs 13th Feb at 10am in The Church Meeting Room. The book for discussion is ‘Following Jesus: Finding Our Way Home in an Age of Anxiety’ by Henri Nouwen, SPCK Publishing (17 Sept. 2019). New members are always welcome.
The Divine Mercy Conference 2020 takes place in the Main Hall, RDS Ballsbridge on Friday 21st February (evening for Young People) Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd February.
THEME: “Deliver us from Evil” (Mt 6:13) Sat: from 10am to 9pm with Rosary, Holy Hour & Mass, Sun: from 10am to 5pm again concluding with Mass
DIVINE MERCY IN DEED, WORD & PRAYER. Speakers include:
Fr Pat Collins, C.M.
Fr Peter Glas – Holy Hour
Fr Brendan Walsh, Eucharistic Healing Service.
Archbishop Diarmuid Martin DD Archbishop of Dublin
Tickets: Sat €30, Sunday €20, full weekend €35 available from PayPal online or at main door:
Parish Contacts:
Margaret 087 669 8745 or Eileen 087 990 5723
Further details & to book online at www.divinemercyconference.com
Free Beginner’s Fitness Drop-in Class every Monday & Thursday at 9.20am in St Kevin’s Hall, Blessington in conjunction with #Active Wicklow
TaiChi Class every Thursday at 11am High Definition in aid of the Coimín Centre. Contact 085 760 7727
Join us for Blessington Bingo every Wednesday in the Avon at 8.15 pm. Great prizes, weekly Jackpot & bonus prizes if you check on Lucky Number, Raffle etc. Shuttle Bus available €2 return. €10 for book and flyers. Contact Catherine 087 122 4019 or Jess 086 860 2822
Car Boot Sale (Des Redmond Charities) in St. Kevin’s Hall Sunday 9th February from 7am to 4pm. €10 per table, Free Car Park, Tea & Coffee. Pat Conlan 086 075 2072
TABLE QUIZ in Tutty’s Pub Hollywood on 7th February at 9pm Sharp. Table of 4 €40. Proceeds towards Senior Citizens Summer Outing, your support appreciated. Quiz Master “Supreme” Pat O Neill.
Interested in a social cycle in the Blessington area? Led by an experienced volunteer, Cycling Ireland/Axa Community Bike Rides are gentle, social bike rides for adults, usually followed by coffee & chat. New series for beginners added for Wednesdays at 10:30am. Join for FREE at www.AxaCommunityBikeRides.com
Happy Faces Play School Blessington Education Centre is a fun, stimulating & welcoming environment with a curriculum focusing on the best care & education for your child. Our staff are highly trained in up to date childcare & Montessori methods of learning and development. Places available, full & part time. Enrolling now for Sept 2020.
Cub Scout Blessington. Is your child aged 9-11years, if they are interested in joining scouts & you would like to become a scout leader (free training provided) please contact me aoibheannmc1@yahoo.ie for more details.
Fuel Stamps are a great way to help budget for fuel costs. 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. The stamps can be used to pay in full or part payment for fuel supplies from your local supplier. Stamps and cards are only available from Hennessy’s Hardware and SVP Shop. Full details are listed on the Fuel Stamps Card. The Scheme is open to all households in the Blessington area. This initiative is in association with Department of Communications Energy & Natural Resources.
World Day of the Sick 2020: The World Day of the Sick Seminar will take place on Saturday, February 8th from 9.30am to 1pm in the Newtown Parish Pastoral Centre, Newtownpark Avenue, Blackrock, Co Dublin. This year’s theme is on Hope in the Face of Suicide. The World Day of the Sick Mass will take place the following day on Sunday 9th February in Church of the Guardian Angels, Newtontownpark Avenue, Blackrock, for further information please contact – Trish Conway on M: 087 6220349.
Laudate Festival
The Laudate Festival will be celebrated in four venues in the Archdiocese of Dublin during Catholic Schools Week.
A large choir of children from schools in the diocese,
500-1000 in each venue, will lead in song and prayer.
The festival nights are joyful and reflective gatherings celebrating the gift of faith.
This is for everyone to enjoy and is free for all parents, families, friends and parishioners.
Church of St Agnes, Crumlin on
Monday 27th January from 7pm to 8.15pm
Our Lady of Victories Church, Ballymun Road on
Tuesday 28th January from 7pm to 8.15pm.
Church of the Holy Spirit, Ballyroan on
Wednesday 29th January from 7pm to 8.15pm.
St Pius X, Templeogue on
Thursday 30th January from 7pm to 8.15pm
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►1st Communion Preparation Mass at 10am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington
Monday 20th January 2020
►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)
Tuesday 21stJanuary 2020
►Citizens Information Centre in Blessington Library from 1pm to 4pm. Legal advice service on 1st & 3rd Tues of month by appointment
►Blessington & District Active Retired meeting at 2.30pm in the Coimin Centre Blessington, new members welcome.
►Eucharistic Adoration from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Blessington Church.
Wednesday 22nd January 2020
►The Citizens Information Centre is open in Blessington Library today 10am to 12.30pm.
►The Rosary will be offered at 7.30pm for the intentions of our families in Blessington Church
Sunday 26th January 2020
►All children in 3rd Class are invited to 10am Mass in Church of Our Lady, Blessington for a special blessing and remembrance of their 1st Holy Communion last year.
►1st Communion preparation Mass in Valleymount at 11.15am Mass
Mass Intentions this Week
Anne Ryan (RD) Joe Dunne (RD) JK Fallon (RD) Jimmy Walker (RD) Rosie Bohan (RD)
Saturday 6pm: Alice Garry (1st A) Pat Garry (A) Jamie Mahon (A) Helen Kennedy Lunden (A) John, Ann & Liam Craul (A)
Sunday 10am: Derek Larkin (Mths Mind) Tom Carroll (A)
We also Remember the following: Marie Joyce (A) Anne Mooney (A) John & Brigid Keogh (A) Mary Walsh (A) Imelda & James Plummer (A) Seamus Hayden, Michael Higgins
Monday: Mass for those on list for Sick
Tuesday: Sheila Kearns (RD) Brenda Delaney (RD)
Wednesday: Judy Aspel (RD) Tom Prendergast (RD)
Thursday: Maureen King (RD) Tom Fox (RD)
Friday: Blessington Deceased Mass Card List
Visitation of the Sick: If there are any parishioners ill, at home or in hospital who would like a visit from a priest, please contact the Parish Office to let us know and to make arrangements 045 865 327
Blessington Parish Finance Committee would like to thank all who are supporting the Parish Neighbourhood Collection & the Parish Development Fund Boxes
(PDF boxes) in Church of Our Lady.
The money raised through the Neighbourhood Collection & the PDF boxes stays in the parish
so by your contributions you are supporting your local parish & we are most grateful.
If you have ANNUAL Envelopes & MONTHLY Envelopes that have not been collected, please drop them into the Parish Office or into one of the collection bags at Mass on Sunday.
The personal information you provide is used by the parish to process the contribution in line with revenue guidelines. It is not shared with any other person or organisation.
Applications for Junior Infant places in Sept 2020 in St Mary’s Junior School should be submitted by Friday 24th January 2020. Forms are available from our school website stmarysjns.weebly.com, from the school office between 9am & 3pm Mon – Fri. or from the parish office (9am to 1 Mon – Fri). Completed forms may be dropped into the school office or emailed to Bernadette at bsec@live.ie Please phone with any queries – St Mary’s Junior School 045 865 501.
St Brigid’s N.S.Manor Kilbride are now accepting enrolments for all pupils wishing to start in September. Please contact the school office on 01-4582550 for an enrolment form. St Brigid’s will also be having an open evening for all prospective students and their families on Tuesday 18th February 2020. The school will be open from 7pm till 8pm. All the staff look forward to seeing you there.
This year’s Panto ROBIN HOOD from Thurs 16th to Sun 19th Jan. in the Tramway Theatre. Limited tickets still available from The Office Shop & Next Door Off Licence!
Blessington Parish Team wish to thank all who donated and loaned cribs to the recent and many thanks to all who visited the exhibition. A donation on €500 was made to the Sisters of Charity, Homeless Shelter.
You are Invited to an Information Evening: ‘Let’s take Ireland back for Christ’ in the Avon Hotel, Blessington at 7.30pm on Thurs 23rd Jan with HLI Ireland. Relic of the Holy Face available for veneration). Info: 085 2525 612
Music Generation Hub Blessington (BFEC) We are after starting new classes in singing & song writing with local songwriter Megan O’Neill as tutor. Semester 2 Jan to end of May will cost €110 for 18 lessons. Spaces available on Thursday from 4.30 onwards for 8 to 18-year olds. Call Tod, ASAP on 086 045 0375 or toddoyle@kwetb.ie
Hollywood Friendship Club every Wed from 2.15pm to 4.15pm in the Hollywood Centre. New members welcome
LOOKING FOR A GREAT NIGHT OUT? Blessington Bowls meet every Thurs at 7.30pm in St. Kevin’s Hall, Blessington, guests welcome, come along & bring a friend.
Interested in a social cycle in the Blessington area? Led by an experienced volunteer, Cycling Ireland/Axa Community Bike Rides are gentle, social bike rides for adults, usually followed by coffee & chat. New series for beginners added for Wednesdays at 10:30am. Join for FREE at www.AxaCommunityBikeRides.com
Happy Faces Play School Blessington Education Centre is a fun, stimulating & welcoming environment with a curriculum focusing on the best care & education for your child. Our staff are highly trained in up to date childcare & Montessori methods of learning and development. Places available, full & part time. Enrolling now for Sept 2020.
Social Dancing on 18th January from 9pm to12 midnight in Donard Community Hall, Donard, Co Wicklow. Refreshments will be served. Social Dancing night will be held the 3rd Saturday of every month to follow.
Cub Scout Blessington. Is your child aged 9-11years, if they are interested in joining scouts & you would like to become a scout leader (free training provided) please contact me aoibheannmc1@yahoo.ie for more details.
GROW Community Mental Health “West Wicklow” Support Group every Wednesday at 7.30pm in Camphill, Grangebeg, Dunlavin. Why not come along & learn more about positive mental health, wellbeing, recovery & how GROW may help you achieve this. New members are always welcome (free of charge). Info: John 086 803 3126 or www.grow.ie
The Parish Book Club meets 4 times a year. The books chosen for review are varied and are of spiritual & philosophical interest. We notify the book under review here in the newsletter. Our next meeting will be on Thurs 13th Feb at 10am in The Church Meeting Room. The book for discussion is ‘Following Jesus: Finding Our Way Home in an Age of Anxiety’ by Henri Nouwen, SPCK Publishing (17 Sept. 2019). New members are always welcome. Please contact the Parish Office if you are interested and would like to go on the text reminder list.
Blessington Comhaltas Classes in Bodhran, Concertina, Accordion, Whistle, Flute, Beginner Fiddle, Intermediate Fiddle, Tune Classes, Guitar Lessons, Singing Classes, Ceili Band. Classes on Sundays from 5pm in St. Mary’s SNS Info Pat 086 075 2072 or Rebecca 087 228 2012 www.blessingtoncomhaltascoislocha@gmail.com
West Wicklow General Election Debate. We need West Wicklow & the issues that affect the people here to be a priority for our incoming TDs! Community Pool for West Wicklow have invited all General Election candidates running in Wicklow to take part in a debate to tell us how they are going to represent us. Come along to The Avon on Tuesday February 4th at 8:15pm to have your voice heard & make sure that West Wicklow is firmly on the agenda for our next TDs. For more info or to get involved please email us at poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com
TRY IT OUT, Blessington Mini-Rugby for Tots is looking for new members to play fun & games every Sat @ 10:15am at St Kevin’s Hall, Main St, Blessington (opposite Vincent’s Charity Shop). Ages 3-5 years.
Date for your Diary – Blessington GAA & LGFA Registration night Tues 28th Jan 7pm to 9pm in the clubhouse. Players need to be registered to play & be insured. 2020 sees the launch of Blessington GAA Healthy Club Programme. Watch out for lots of great events, talks and initiatives coming soon.
Adult Fencing Classes will be starting again on Tuesday 21st January from 8pm in St Kevin’s Hall. Fencing is a fun sport & all ages & levels of fitness can enjoy. No special equipment required only comfortable clothes & trainers. All are welcome to pop along & give it a go with no obligation. Call 087 676 4183 if you need any additional information
TABLE QUIZ in Tutty’s Pub Hollywood on 7th February at 9pm Sharp. Table of 4 €40. Proceeds towards Senior Citizens Summer Outing, your support appreciated. Quiz Master “Supreme” Pat O Neill.
West Wicklow Environmental Network meeting in the Avon, Blessington on Thurs 23rd Jan at 7pm. Guest speaker from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) on energy efficiency grants for the home & the supports available for community energy initiatives. A speaker on behalf of the Blessington Sustainable Energy Community will explain what is already happening in the local area. There will also be a presentation on “Rewilding” & what we can do to promote this. All very welcome for this informative evening.
Blessington Library in conjunction with Wicklow Sports & Recreation Partnership, Siel Bleu Ireland & Healthy Ireland will host Chair Exercise Classes – It’s a 6-week programme starting Thurs 23rd Jan from 10am to 11am – All 6 Classes taking place in Blessington Library. Classes are free to attend but booking is essential. This one-hour exercise session for older people aims to improve physical & mental capacities. For more information please contact Blessington Library phone: 045 891 740
Health & Wellbeing Talks at Blessington Library Benefits of Physical Activity with Nathalie Lennon on Thursday 23rd January from 7pm to 8pm, January Nutrition Made Simple with Cliona Mc Carthy – McGreal’s on Thursday 30th January from 7pm to 8pm
St Vincent de Paul 087 181 1579
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Families of all children baptised in any of our Churches during 2019 are invited to bring your child for a special blessing at any Mass on this weekend Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th January. This blessing will take place at all Masses in all our churches.
Monday 13th January 2020
►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)
►Children’s Choir Rehearsal from 2.45pm to 3.30pm in Church of Our Lady. All Welcome!!
►Blessington & District Forum meet at 8pm in St Mary’s Junior School. All Welcome
►Neighbourhood Collection Envelopes for January are due. Envelopes may be left into the Parish Office or in collection bags at Mass.
Tuesday 14thJanuary 2020
►Citizens Information Centre in Blessington Library from 1pm to 4pm. Legal advice service on 1st & 3rd Tues of month by appointment
►Blessington & District Active Retired meeting at 2.30pm in the Coimin Centre Blessington, new members welcome.
►Eucharistic Adoration from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Blessington Church.
Wednesday 15th January 2020
►The Citizens Information Centre is open in Blessington Library today 10am to 12.30pm.
►The Rosary will be offered at 7.30pm for the intentions of our families in Blessington Church
Mass Intentions this Week
Yvonne Mellin (RD) Regina Duffy (RD)
Saturday 6pm:
Leo Howlin (A) Myles (Miley) Balfe (A)
Sunday 10am:
Sean Duffy (1st A) John O’Connor (A) John Byrne (A)
We also Remember the following:
William Bolton, Sean, John & Julia Carroll (A) Rose Hastings, Teddy Shirran, Ann Clarke, Harry Lee, Joan Bird
Monday: Mass for those on list for Sick
Tuesday: Blessington Christmas Mass List
Wednesday: William Bolton (A) Nora Coomey (RD)
Thursday: Thora Leahy (RD) Regina Duffy (RD)
Friday: Frankie Kennedy (RD) Laurie Byrne (RD)
Visitation of the Sick: If there are any parishioners ill, at home or in hospital who would like a visit from a priest, please contact the Parish Office to let us know and to make arrangements 045 865 327
GOAL MILE: Thanks to everyone who came along and supported the Goal Mile on Christmas Day. It’s was our largest one yet and you raised €1200 for charity. Well done!
Applications for Junior Infant places in Sept 2020 in St Mary’s Junior School should be submitted by Friday 24th January 2020. Forms are available from our school website stmarysjns.weebly.com, from the school office between 9am & 3pm Mon – Fri. or from the parish office (9am to 1 Mon – Fri). Completed forms may be dropped into the school office or emailed to Bernadette at bsec@live.ie Please phone with any queries – St Mary’s Junior School 045 865 501.
The Blessington St Patrick’s Day Committee pick a different charity every year that needs help in our community. The proceeds from all our fundraising events for the year, including the St Patrick’s Day Parade event goes to the chosen charity. Last year we raised funds for the Blessington Day Care Centre. The committee, who are all Garda vetted, hold discos in St Joseph’s Hall every month during the school term for boys & girls in 4th to 6th classes in all our schools as a regular fundraiser. On Friday 17th January at 7pm we will be presenting a cheque to the Day Care Committee in the Coimín Centre, Blessington and we would love if everyone could join us. Tea & coffee will be served & we will have cakes donated by cuisine de France. Come see how much we raised!!! A very big thank you to everyone who attends the discos & has made this happen in our community.
Not long to go, to this year’s Panto ROBIN HOOD! Limited tickets still available from The Office Shop & Next Door Off Licence! Thursday 16th to Sunday 19th January. Get yours now to avoid disappointment!
Valleymount Parish Calendar2020 on sale now, €6 each or 2 for €10 from the Parish Office, Valleymount & Lacken Churches & shops locally. All funds to support Valleymount & Lacken Parish, many thanks to our many sponsors & advertisers for your generous funding.
Hollywood Friendship Club will return on 8th Jan. Wishing all our friends a Happy Christmas & New Year. Hope to see new members in 2020.
Happy Faces Play School Blessington Education Centre is a fun, stimulating & welcoming environment with a curriculum focusing on the best care & education for your child. Our staff are highly trained in up to date childcare & Montessori methods of learning and development. Places available, full & part time. Enrolling now for Sept 2020.
GAELSCOIL NA LOCHANNA, Oíche Oscailte agus Chlárúcháin, 16ú Eanáir 2019 Open/Enrolment night for places in school for next Sept is on 16th January 7:30pm in Gaelscoil (Kilmalum road, Blessington) We also invite parents who might be thinking of joining the Gaelscoil in next few years to come along also. PPS and birth cert required to enrol. 087 938 8651 for enquiries. Fáilte! PLEASE SEE OUR NEW PARENTS’ WEBPAGE www.gsnl.info for all the information new parents may need
Hollywood Friendship Club every Wednesday from 2.15 to 4.15pm in Hollywood Centre New members welcome.Social Dancing on 18th January from 9pm to12 midnight in Donard Community Hall, Donard, Co Wicklow. Refreshments will be served. Social Dancing night will be held the 3rd Saturday of every month to follow.
Cub Scout Blessington. Is your child aged 9-11years, if they are interested in joining scouts & you would like to become a scout leader (free training provided) please contact me aoibheannmc1@yahoo.ie for more details.
GROW Community Mental Health “West Wicklow” Support Group every Wednesday at 7.30pm in Camphill, Grangebeg, Dunlavin. Why not come along & learn more about positive mental health, wellbeing, recovery & how GROW may help you achieve this. New members are always welcome (free of charge). Info: John 086 803 3126 or www.grow.ie
Enriching your Marriage. A Marriage Enrichment Weekend offers married couples of all ages, time away from the busyness of life to refresh their love for one another. The next (residential) weekends (Fri 8pm to Sun 4pm) will be held at the Dromantine Conference Centre, Newry from 31st Jan to 2nd February & at The International Hotel Cork from 3rd to 5th April. For info & booking visit www.marriageencounter.ie or Ph: 087 216 2436.
The Parish Book Club meets 4 times a year. The books chosen for review are varied and are of spiritual & philosophical interest. We notify the book under review here in the newsletter. Our next meeting will be on Thurs 13th Feb at 10am in The Church Meeting Room. The book for discussion is ‘Following Jesus: Finding Our Way Home in an Age of Anxiety’ by Henri Nouwen, SPCK Publishing (17 Sept. 2019). New members are always welcome. Please contact the Parish Office if you are interested and would like to go on the text reminder list.
Retired Civil and Public Servants Association. The Kildare Branch of the RCPSA invites recently & long retired colleagues to the quarterly meeting in the Town House Hotel, Newbridge Rd., Naas, Co Kildare on Tuesday 14th January @ 11.15am Teas/Coffees will be served from 11am. The meeting will be updated on issues applicable to retired colleagues & will conclude with a presentation of the options available on health insurance.
Adult Fencing Classes will be starting again on Tuesday 21st January from 8pm in St Kevin’s Hall. Fencing is a fun sport & all ages & levels of fitness can enjoy. No special equipment required only comfortable clothes & trainers. All are welcome to pop along & give it a go with no obligation. Call 087 676 4183 if you need any additional information
MEDJUGORJE IRISH CENTRE PILGRIMAGES Apr to Oct 2020: 7 Nights inc Airport Shuttle from Dubrovnik or Split €266 per person sharing. Book any flight – any time & we provide guaranteed airport shuttle service. Call us for further info & book the dates that suit you: 01 4434510 or email: reservations@med-irishcentre.com
Blessington Comhaltas Classes in Bodhran, Concertina, Accordion, Whistle, Flute, Beginner Fiddle, Intermediate Fiddle, Tune Classes, Guitar Lessons, Singing Classes, Ceili Band. Classes on Sundays from 5pm in St. Mary’s SNS Info Pat 086 075 2072 or Rebecca 087 228 2012 www.blessingtoncomhaltascoislocha@gmail.com
Lacken Community Centre Calendar2020 on sale now from Supervalu, Blessington Bookstore, The Office Shop, Blessington Tourist Office, West Wicklow House, Flowers by Enda, Zellers Lacken & Cullens Bar Ballyknocken
LOOKING FOR A GREAT NIGHT OUT? Blessington Bowls meet every Thurs at 7.30pm in St. Kevin’s Hall, Blessington, guests welcome, come along & bring a friend.
Interested in a social cycle in the Blessington area? Led by an experienced volunteer, Cycling Ireland/Axa Community Bike Rides are gentle, social bike rides for adults, usually followed by coffee & chat. New series for beginners added for Wednesdays at 10:30am. Join for FREE at www.AxaCommunityBikeRides.com
FOUND A Silver Ring with 3 diamond bands was found on yard in St Mary’s JS before Christmas. Contact school office for details
Take my hand O Blessed Mother,
Hold me firmly lest I fall,
I am nervous when I am walking,
And to thee I humbly call.
Guide me over every crossing,
Watch me when I am on my way,
Let me know you are beside me,
Listen to my frequent prayers.
Bring me to my destination,
Safely every single day,
Help me with my understanding,
As the hours pass away.
And when evening falls upon me,
And I fear to be alone,
Take my hand O Blessed Mother,
And once again guide me home.
St Vincent de Paul 087 181 1579
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► Mass times as normal in all our Churches this weekend
Monday 23rd December 2019
►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)
Christmas Eve Tues 24th Dec 2019
►Confessions: 12 noon to 1pm in Church of our Lady, Blessington and from 5pm to 6pm in St Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride
Christmas Eve Mass Times
►Blessington 5.00pm
►Blessington 7.30pm
►Lacken 7.30pm
►Manor Kilbride 8.00pm
►Eadestown 9.00pm
►Crosschapel 9.00pm
►Valleymount 9.30pm
►Blessington 10.00pm
Christmas Day Wed 25th Dec 2019
Christmas Day Mass Times
►Blessington 10.00am
►Valleymount 10.00am
►Kilteel 10.00am
►Manor Kilbride 11.00am
►Eadestown 11.30am
►Crosschapel 11.30am
►Blessington 11.30am
► GOAL MILE: The annual Goal Mile will take place on Christmas Day at 12:30pm. It happens on the running track at the rear of the Community College, Naas Road. Everyone is welcome to run/walk this event, so come along and support this great cause!
St Stephen’s Day Thurs 26thDec
►Mass 11am Church of Our Lady Blessington
Sunday 29th December 2019
►Free session of SONGS & TUNES. Zellers, Lacken; 6pm to 9+. Used to sing or play? A ‘novice’? ‘Just a listener’? ALL welcome. ALL ages ANY song, tune, acoustic self-accompaniment. No mic. Just for fun!
Mass Intentions this Week
Sheila Kearns (RD)
Saturday 6pm: Elizabeth Coogan (Mths Mind) Eddie Conroy (Rem) Margaret Roche (A) Claire Twyford (A)
We also Remember the following: Bridget McEvoy (1st A) Liam & Roseana O’Hara, Deceased Members of O’Hara Family, John & Bridie Hamilton, Deceased Members of Hamilton Family, Tina Walsh, Patsy Hamilton, William Clarke, May & Jim Breen, Mary Breen, Kathy Ryan, Christina Ryan Fogarty, Anna Ryan, Jimmy & Micky Ryan, Sheila Zeller, Kathleen Smith, Thomas & Ann Eustace, Thomas & Susan Eustace, Patrick & Molly Conway, Mary Pollard, Mary Cullen, Tony, Lil & Brian Kenny, Charles & Catherine Doran, Simon, Rebecca & Maisie Hopkins, Paddy & Dolores Burnett, John & Bernadette Byrne.
Monday 23rd: Mass for those on list for Sick
Christmas Masses: offered for the intentions of all our parishioners
Thursday 26th 11am: Louis Walsh (A) Frank & Olwyn Langan (A) Millicent Jones (A)
Friday 27th 11am: Hannah Smith (A) Katie Kelly, Mary Ann Sargent
Saturday 28th Dec 6pm: Karen McEvoy (1st A) Bill Kinsella (A)
We also Remember the following: Jim & Kitty Nolan, Vincent Bohan, Kay McGrath, Peggy & Pauline O’Brien
Monday 30th December 11am Mass for those on the list for the Sick
Tues 31st Dec 11am Joseph McDonald (A)
Wed 1st January 11am: Special Intention
Thurs 2nd Jan 9.30am: Elsie Hennessy
Friday 3rd Jan 9.30am: 1st Friday Masses offered for all on the Nov List of the Dead
May the Holy Family bring Peace, Joy & Happiness to you & your family this Christmas. We invite you to join with us in celebrating the birth of Jesus.
Archdeacon Kevin Lyon,
Fr. Paraic McDermott,
Fr. Micheál Comer,
Fr. Noel Campbell,
Rev. Deacon Gerry Malone
Áine Egan, Pastoral worker
Fr. Richard Behan P.P.
Reverend Canon Leonard Ruddock
From Thursday 26th Decemberto Wednesday 1st January no weekday Mass in Crosschapel. Mass at 11am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington
Blessington Parish Office
Closed from Monday 23rd December at 1pm and will reopen on Tuesday 7th January at 9am The next edition of the Parish Newsletter will be dated 12th January
Mass Intentions
Sunday 5th Jan 10am: Liam O’Reilly (A) William & Elizabeth Coyle (A) Peter, Mary & Pat Brady
We also Remember the following: Michael Tully Snr (A)
Holy Day Monday 6th Jan 10am: Mass for those on the list for the Sick
Holy Day Monday 6th Jan 8pm: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions
Tuesday 7th Jan 9.30am: Michael Tully Snr (A)
Wednesday 8th Jan 9.30am: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions
Thursday 9th Jan 9.30am: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions
Friday 10th Jan 9.30am: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions
Friday 3rd January 2020
►Bethany Bereavement Support Group are available in the Coimín Centre Blessington for caring confidential support from 10am to 11am
►1st Friday of the Month. The Masses will be offered for all those whose names are on the Altar List of the Dead. The priests will visit the sick & housebound. If you would like a visit please contact the Parish Office, 045 865 327
►1st Friday Mass in Manor Kilbride at 9am.
►1st Friday Mass in Valleymount at 11.15am
►Coffee Morning in Lacken Community Centre from 10.30am to 12.30pm
►Padre Pio Mass at 8pm in Blessington.
Monday 6th January 2020
► Feast of the Epiphany – Holy Day Masses:
10.00am: Church of Our Lady Blessington
11.00am: Manor Kilbride
11.15am Valleymount
11.30am: Crosschapel
11.30am Eadestown
8.00pm: Blessington
Wednesday 7th January 2020
►Bethany Bereavement Support group available for caring confidential support from 8pm to 9pm no appointment necessary.
Ring in the New Year with the Bells of St. Mary’s and the Blessington & District forum
The community of Blessington & District are invited to greet 2020 in a new way this New Year’s Eve. Blessington Forum in conjunction with St Mary’s Church, Blessington, is encouraging everyone to ring out the old year & ring in the new one accompanied by the church’s historic bells. People are encouraged to gather in the Square Blessington at 11.45pm on December 31st where they will be given tea lights. The church’s bells will toll for 10 minutes in the run up to midnight to ring out 2019. The bells will fall silent for a time before12 single strokes are rung at midnight. Then all the bells will ring in the new year. People will light their tea lights on the stroke of midnight bringing light into the darkness at the dawn of the new year bringing hope to our community for 2020
Valleymount Parish Calendar2020 on sale now, €6 each or 2 for €10 from the Parish Office, Valleymount & Lacken Churches & shops locally. All funds to support Valleymount & Lacken Parish, many thanks to our many sponsors & advertisers for your generous funding.
Hollywood Friendship Club will return on 8th Jan. Wishing all our friends a Happy Christmas & New Year. Hope to see new members in 2020.
Happy Faces Play School Blessington Education Centre is a fun, stimulating & welcoming environment with a curriculum focusing on the best care & education for your child. Our staff are highly trained in up to date childcare & Montessori methods of learning and development. Places available, full & part time. Enrolling now for Sept 2020.
Community Pool for West Wicklow Christmas Monster Raffle! Prizes include a family pass for Kaleidoscope, Afternoon Tea at Ballymaloe, dinner for two at Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort & much, much more! Tickets €5 each & 4 for €20 at www.tinyurl.com/CPWWMonsterRaffle All monies raised go towards a pool for West Wicklow. Draw in Murphy’s Bar on Sun Dec 22nd. For more information email poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com.
Blessington Comhaltas Classes in Bodhran, Concertina, Accordion, Whistle, Flute, Beginner Fiddle, Intermediate Fiddle, Tune Classes, Guitar Lessons, Singing Classes, Ceili Band. Classes on Sundays from 5pm in St. Mary’s SNS Info Pat 086 075 2072 or Rebecca 087 228 2012 www.blessingtoncomhaltascoislocha@gmail.com
Lacken Community Centre Calendar2020 on sale now from Supervalu, Blessington Bookstore, The Office Shop, Blessington Tourist Office, West Wicklow House, Flowers by Enda, Zellers Lacken & Cullens Bar Ballyknocken
Happy Christmas to all our Mini-Rugby Players from Blessington RFC!!
LOOKING FOR A GREAT NIGHT OUT? Blessington Bowls meet every Thurs at 7.30pm in St. Kevin’s Hall, Blessington, guests welcome, come along & bring a friend.
West Wicklow Cancer Support: – Would like to wish everyone a Wonderful Christmas and a healthy and Happy New Year. There will be no monthly drop in on the last Thursday of the month (December). Our next Drop will be on Thursday 30th January 2020. We are available on 087 434 6004 or by email westwicklow15@gmail.com over the holiday season. Thank you to all for your ongoing support. “The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it”
Interested in a social cycle in the Blessington area? Led by an experienced volunteer, Cycling Ireland/Axa Community Bike Rides are gentle, social bike rides for adults, usually followed by coffee & chat. New series for beginners added for Wednesdays at 10:30am. Join for FREE at www.AxaCommunityBikeRides.com
Adults Beginners Fencing Classes on Tuesdays from 8pm to 9.30pm in St Kevin’s Hall
St. Vincent De Paul would like to offer our sincere gratitude for all the donations we received last weekend. If anyone still wishes to donate, can you please drop it into the Parish Office marked for SVP. All donations dropped in here remain in Blessington & the surrounding areas & 100% of donations are distributed to those in need. Any donations left in the SVP Shop are sent to Dublin.
Many Thanks to all who helped make the Christmas Concert in Valleymount such a huge success. Mass will be offered for your intentions.
GAELSCOIL NA LOCHANNA, Oíche Oscailte agus Chlárúcháin, 16ú Eanáir 2019 Open/Enrolment night for places in school for next Sept is on 16th January 7:30pm in Gaelscoil (Kilmalum road, Blessington) We also invite parents who might be thinking of joining the Gaelscoil in next few years to come along also. PPS and birth cert required to enrol. 087 938 8651 for enquiries. Fáilte! PLEASE SEE OUR NEW PARENTS’ WEBPAGE www.gsnl.info for all the information new parents may need.
OÍCHE NOLLAG 2019 AIFREANN NA GINE Dé Máirt 24 Nollaig
Masses in Irish on Christmas Eve
7.30 p.m. ARD AIDHIN, AIREAGAL AN AISÉIRÍ Bóthar na Cille Móire, Baile Átha Cliath 5
ARTANE, Oratory of the Resurrection, Kilmore Road, Dublin 5
9.00 p.m. BELFIELD, AN SÉIPÉAL OLLSCOILE An Coláiste Ollscoile, Baile Átha Cliath 4
BELFIELD, University Chapel, UCD, Dublin 4
St Vincent de Paul 087 181 1579
http://blessingtonparish.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Blessington-Parish-logo-1-1030x787.png00officehttp://blessingtonparish.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Blessington-Parish-logo-1-1030x787.pngoffice2019-12-18 19:40:142019-12-19 10:11:51Issue 1287 22nd Dec 2019
Issue 1290 January 26th 2020
/0 Comments/in Newsletter /by officeSunday 26th January 2020
►All children in 3rd Class are invited to 10am Mass in, Blessington for a special blessing & remembrance of their 1st Communion last year.
►1st Communion Preparation Mass at 11.15am in Valleymount
►Bridge Tournament hosted by St Mary’s College Past Pupils Union, Lawlor’s Hotel, Naas at 2pm €10 per person. Raffle & Prizes. All funds will go to the school. Parking will be available at the school
Monday 27th January 2020
►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)
►Blessington Community Walking Group. Walks from the Coimín Centre on Monday (ex-bank holidays) & Thursday at 7pm. All levels catered for & welcome. Find us on Facebook
Tuesday 28th January 2020
►Citizens Information Centre in Blessington Library from 1pm to 4pm. Legal advice service on 1st & 3rd Tues of month by appointment
►Eucharistic Adoration from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Blessington Church.
Wednesday 29th January 2020
►The Citizens Information Centre is open in Blessington Library today 10am to 12.30pm.
►The Rosary will be offered at 7.30pm for the intentions of our families in Blessington Church
►Christian Meditation Group meet in the Mass Centre in Brittas from 11am. All welcome
Thursday 30th January 2020
► West Wicklow Cancer Support monthly drop in “Manifestation Meditation” hosted by Gemma Deeny of Yogagym at 7.30pm in the Coimin Centre, Blessington. No charge, all welcome. Find us on Facebook, call 087 434 6004 or email westwicklow15@gmail.com
Mass Intentions this Week
Saturday 6pm: Peggy Howlin (A) Jim & Maisie Browne (A) Sean & Betty Tutty (A) Jimmy Hanlon (Butterhill) (A) Jim & Mary Kavanagh (A)
Sunday 10am: Paddy Owens (RD) Mary Hoey (RD)
We also Remember the following: Christopher Flanagan (A) Lil Horan (A) Bernadette Dunne (A) Denis Ryall (A)
Monday: Mass for those on list for Sick
Tuesday: Winnie McDermott (A) Denis Ryall (A) Spec Living Intentions
Wednesday: Denis Kelleher (1st A) Barry O’Donnell (Rem)
Thursday: Get Well Mass, Spec Intentions
Friday: Anne Ryan (RD) Joe Dunne (RD)
Children’s Church is back!! NEW time 6pm Mass in Blessington on Saturday 1st February
Blessing of Throats
Saturday 1st in Lacken at 7.30pm
Sunday 2nd February Valleymount at 11.15am
Monday 3rd February,
Blessington, & Crosschapel
Special broadcast of Knock Mass from Rome. Mass will be celebrated by Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome this Sunday 26th January at 9am (Irish time) It will be broadcast “live” on the EWTN channel on SKY 588 or Virgin Media 815
Visitation of the Sick: If there are any parishioners ill, at home or in hospital who would like a visit from a priest, please contact the Parish Office to let us know and to make arrangements 045 865 327
Applications for Junior Infant places in Sept 2020 in St Mary’s Junior School should be submitted by Friday 24th January 2020. Forms are available from our school website stmarysjns.weebly.com, from the school office between 9am & 3pm Mon – Fri. or from the parish office (9am to 1 Mon – Fri). Completed forms may be dropped into the school office or emailed to bsec@live 045 865 501.
St Brigid’s N.S. Manor Kilbride are now accepting enrolments for all pupils wishing to start in September. Please contact the school office on 01-4582550 for an enrolment form.
Lacken NS are currently accepting enrolments for September 2020. Enrolment forms are available on www.lackenns.com or from the school, call 045 865 086 and we will post one out to you. Lacken NS also runs a pre-school & an after-school service. Please join us at our open day on Wednesday 12th February from 11am to 12.15pm. All are welcome.
LAUNCHING SOON
St. Mary’s Schools & Blessington Parish Fundraiser – Weekly LOTTO DRAW
a new fund-raising initiative, the money raised will be used to directly support our schools & our parish. You can help in a real, practical way by joining & your support is greatly appreciated.
Carmel Dillon, Principal, St. Mary’s JNS
Gerry Brown, Principal, St. Mary’s SNS
Fr. Richard P.P. Blessington Parish
Full details of how to join, next week
MEMBER NOTICE – Blessington & District Credit Union Limited, Annual General Meeting will take place on 30th January at 8 pm in The Avon, Blessington Lakeshore, Burgage, Blessington, Co Wicklow. We look forward to seeing you on the night
TRY IT OUT, Blessington Mini-Rugby for Tots is looking for new members to play fun & games every Sat @ 10:15am at St Kevin’s Hall, Main St, Blessington (opposite Vincent’s Charity Shop). Ages 3-5 years.
Date for your Diary – Blessington GAA & LGFA Registration night Tues 28th Jan 7pm to 9pm in the clubhouse. Players need to be registered to play & be insured. 2020 sees the launch of Blessington GAA Healthy Club Programme.
Hollywood Friendship Club every Wed from 2.15pm to 4.15pm in the Hollywood Centre. New members welcome
West Wicklow General Election Debate. We need West Wicklow & the issues that affect the people here to be a priority for our incoming TDs! Community Pool for West Wicklow have invited all General Election candidates running in Wicklow to take part in a debate to tell us how they are going to represent us. Come along to The Avon on Tuesday February 4th at 8:15pm to have your voice heard & make sure that West Wicklow is firmly on the agenda for our next TDs. For more info or to get involved please email us at poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com
Adult Fencing Classes on Tuesdays from 8pm in St Kevin’s Hall. Fencing is a fun sport & all ages & levels of fitness can enjoy. No special equipment required only comfortable clothes & trainers. All are welcome to pop along & give it a go with no obligation. Call 087 676 4183 if you need any additional information
The Parish Book Club next meeting will be on Thurs 13th Feb at 10am in The Church Meeting Room. The book for discussion is ‘Following Jesus: Finding Our Way Home in an Age of Anxiety’ by Henri Nouwen, SPCK Publishing (17 Sept. 2019). New members are always welcome.
The Divine Mercy Conference 2020 takes place in the Main Hall, RDS Ballsbridge on Friday 21st February (evening for Young People) Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd February.
THEME: “Deliver us from Evil” (Mt 6:13) Sat: from 10am to 9pm with Rosary, Holy Hour & Mass, Sun: from 10am to 5pm again concluding with Mass
DIVINE MERCY IN DEED, WORD & PRAYER. Speakers include:
Fr Pat Collins, C.M.
Fr Peter Glas – Holy Hour
Fr Brendan Walsh, Eucharistic Healing Service.
Archbishop Diarmuid Martin DD Archbishop of Dublin
Tickets: Sat €30, Sunday €20, full weekend €35 available from PayPal online or at main door:
Parish Contacts:
Margaret 087 669 8745 or Eileen 087 990 5723
Further details & to book online at www.divinemercyconference.com
Free Beginner’s Fitness Drop-in Class every Monday & Thursday at 9.20am in St Kevin’s Hall, Blessington in conjunction with #Active Wicklow
TaiChi Class every Thursday at 11am High Definition in aid of the Coimín Centre. Contact 085 760 7727
Join us for Blessington Bingo every Wednesday in the Avon at 8.15 pm. Great prizes, weekly Jackpot & bonus prizes if you check on Lucky Number, Raffle etc. Shuttle Bus available €2 return. €10 for book and flyers. Contact Catherine 087 122 4019 or Jess 086 860 2822
Car Boot Sale (Des Redmond Charities) in St. Kevin’s Hall Sunday 9th February from 7am to 4pm. €10 per table, Free Car Park, Tea & Coffee. Pat Conlan 086 075 2072
TABLE QUIZ in Tutty’s Pub Hollywood on 7th February at 9pm Sharp. Table of 4 €40. Proceeds towards Senior Citizens Summer Outing, your support appreciated. Quiz Master “Supreme” Pat O Neill.
Interested in a social cycle in the Blessington area? Led by an experienced volunteer, Cycling Ireland/Axa Community Bike Rides are gentle, social bike rides for adults, usually followed by coffee & chat. New series for beginners added for Wednesdays at 10:30am. Join for FREE at www.AxaCommunityBikeRides.com
Happy Faces Play School Blessington Education Centre is a fun, stimulating & welcoming environment with a curriculum focusing on the best care & education for your child. Our staff are highly trained in up to date childcare & Montessori methods of learning and development. Places available, full & part time. Enrolling now for Sept 2020.
Cub Scout Blessington. Is your child aged 9-11years, if they are interested in joining scouts & you would like to become a scout leader (free training provided) please contact me aoibheannmc1@yahoo.ie for more details.
Fuel Stamps are a great way to help budget for fuel costs. 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. The stamps can be used to pay in full or part payment for fuel supplies from your local supplier. Stamps and cards are only available from Hennessy’s Hardware and SVP Shop. Full details are listed on the Fuel Stamps Card. The Scheme is open to all households in the Blessington area. This initiative is in association with Department of Communications Energy & Natural Resources.
World Day of the Sick 2020: The World Day of the Sick Seminar will take place on Saturday, February 8th from 9.30am to 1pm in the Newtown Parish Pastoral Centre, Newtownpark Avenue, Blackrock, Co Dublin. This year’s theme is on Hope in the Face of Suicide. The World Day of the Sick Mass will take place the following day on Sunday 9th February in Church of the Guardian Angels, Newtontownpark Avenue, Blackrock, for further information please contact – Trish Conway on M: 087 6220349.
Laudate Festival
The Laudate Festival will be celebrated in four venues in the Archdiocese of Dublin during Catholic Schools Week.
A large choir of children from schools in the diocese,
500-1000 in each venue, will lead in song and prayer.
The festival nights are joyful and reflective gatherings celebrating the gift of faith.
This is for everyone to enjoy and is free for all parents, families, friends and parishioners.
Church of St Agnes, Crumlin on
Monday 27th January from 7pm to 8.15pm
Our Lady of Victories Church, Ballymun Road on
Tuesday 28th January from 7pm to 8.15pm.
Church of the Holy Spirit, Ballyroan on
Wednesday 29th January from 7pm to 8.15pm.
St Pius X, Templeogue on
Thursday 30th January from 7pm to 8.15pm
Issue 1289 January 19th 2020
/0 Comments/in Newsletter /by officeSunday 19th January 2020
►1st Communion Preparation Mass at 10am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington
Monday 20th January 2020
►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)
Tuesday 21st January 2020
►Citizens Information Centre in Blessington Library from 1pm to 4pm. Legal advice service on 1st & 3rd Tues of month by appointment
►Blessington & District Active Retired meeting at 2.30pm in the Coimin Centre Blessington, new members welcome.
►Eucharistic Adoration from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Blessington Church.
Wednesday 22nd January 2020
►The Citizens Information Centre is open in Blessington Library today 10am to 12.30pm.
►The Rosary will be offered at 7.30pm for the intentions of our families in Blessington Church
Sunday 26th January 2020
►All children in 3rd Class are invited to 10am Mass in Church of Our Lady, Blessington for a special blessing and remembrance of their 1st Holy Communion last year.
►1st Communion preparation Mass in Valleymount at 11.15am Mass
Mass Intentions this Week
Anne Ryan (RD) Joe Dunne (RD) JK Fallon (RD) Jimmy Walker (RD) Rosie Bohan (RD)
Saturday 6pm: Alice Garry (1st A) Pat Garry (A) Jamie Mahon (A) Helen Kennedy Lunden (A) John, Ann & Liam Craul (A)
Sunday 10am: Derek Larkin (Mths Mind) Tom Carroll (A)
We also Remember the following: Marie Joyce (A) Anne Mooney (A) John & Brigid Keogh (A) Mary Walsh (A) Imelda & James Plummer (A) Seamus Hayden, Michael Higgins
Monday: Mass for those on list for Sick
Tuesday: Sheila Kearns (RD) Brenda Delaney (RD)
Wednesday: Judy Aspel (RD) Tom Prendergast (RD)
Thursday: Maureen King (RD) Tom Fox (RD)
Friday: Blessington Deceased Mass Card List
Visitation of the Sick: If there are any parishioners ill, at home or in hospital who would like a visit from a priest, please contact the Parish Office to let us know and to make arrangements 045 865 327
Blessington Parish Finance Committee would like to thank all who are supporting the Parish Neighbourhood Collection & the Parish Development Fund Boxes
(PDF boxes) in Church of Our Lady.
The money raised through the Neighbourhood Collection & the PDF boxes stays in the parish
so by your contributions you are supporting your local parish & we are most grateful.
If you have ANNUAL Envelopes & MONTHLY Envelopes that have not been collected, please drop them into the Parish Office or into one of the collection bags at Mass on Sunday.
The personal information you provide is used by the parish to process the contribution in line with revenue guidelines. It is not shared with any other person or organisation.
Applications for Junior Infant places in Sept 2020 in St Mary’s Junior School should be submitted by Friday 24th January 2020. Forms are available from our school website stmarysjns.weebly.com, from the school office between 9am & 3pm Mon – Fri. or from the parish office (9am to 1 Mon – Fri). Completed forms may be dropped into the school office or emailed to Bernadette at bsec@live.ie Please phone with any queries – St Mary’s Junior School 045 865 501.
St Brigid’s N.S. Manor Kilbride are now accepting enrolments for all pupils wishing to start in September. Please contact the school office on 01-4582550 for an enrolment form. St Brigid’s will also be having an open evening for all prospective students and their families on Tuesday 18th February 2020. The school will be open from 7pm till 8pm. All the staff look forward to seeing you there.
This year’s Panto ROBIN HOOD from Thurs 16th to Sun 19th Jan. in the Tramway Theatre. Limited tickets still available from The Office Shop & Next Door Off Licence!
Blessington Parish Team wish to thank all who donated and loaned cribs to the recent and many thanks to all who visited the exhibition. A donation on €500 was made to the Sisters of Charity, Homeless Shelter.
You are Invited to an Information Evening: ‘Let’s take Ireland back for Christ’ in the Avon Hotel, Blessington at 7.30pm on Thurs 23rd Jan with HLI Ireland. Relic of the Holy Face available for veneration). Info: 085 2525 612
Music Generation Hub Blessington (BFEC) We are after starting new classes in singing & song writing with local songwriter Megan O’Neill as tutor. Semester 2 Jan to end of May will cost €110 for 18 lessons. Spaces available on Thursday from 4.30 onwards for 8 to 18-year olds. Call Tod, ASAP on 086 045 0375 or toddoyle@kwetb.ie
Hollywood Friendship Club every Wed from 2.15pm to 4.15pm in the Hollywood Centre. New members welcome
LOOKING FOR A GREAT NIGHT OUT? Blessington Bowls meet every Thurs at 7.30pm in St. Kevin’s Hall, Blessington, guests welcome, come along & bring a friend.
Interested in a social cycle in the Blessington area? Led by an experienced volunteer, Cycling Ireland/Axa Community Bike Rides are gentle, social bike rides for adults, usually followed by coffee & chat. New series for beginners added for Wednesdays at 10:30am. Join for FREE at www.AxaCommunityBikeRides.com
Happy Faces Play School Blessington Education Centre is a fun, stimulating & welcoming environment with a curriculum focusing on the best care & education for your child. Our staff are highly trained in up to date childcare & Montessori methods of learning and development. Places available, full & part time. Enrolling now for Sept 2020.
Social Dancing on 18th January from 9pm to12 midnight in Donard Community Hall, Donard, Co Wicklow. Refreshments will be served. Social Dancing night will be held the 3rd Saturday of every month to follow.
Cub Scout Blessington. Is your child aged 9-11years, if they are interested in joining scouts & you would like to become a scout leader (free training provided) please contact me aoibheannmc1@yahoo.ie for more details.
GROW Community Mental Health “West Wicklow” Support Group every Wednesday at 7.30pm in Camphill, Grangebeg, Dunlavin. Why not come along & learn more about positive mental health, wellbeing, recovery & how GROW may help you achieve this. New members are always welcome (free of charge). Info: John 086 803 3126 or www.grow.ie
The Parish Book Club meets 4 times a year. The books chosen for review are varied and are of spiritual & philosophical interest. We notify the book under review here in the newsletter. Our next meeting will be on Thurs 13th Feb at 10am in The Church Meeting Room. The book for discussion is ‘Following Jesus: Finding Our Way Home in an Age of Anxiety’ by Henri Nouwen, SPCK Publishing (17 Sept. 2019). New members are always welcome. Please contact the Parish Office if you are interested and would like to go on the text reminder list.
Blessington Comhaltas Classes in Bodhran, Concertina, Accordion, Whistle, Flute, Beginner Fiddle, Intermediate Fiddle, Tune Classes, Guitar Lessons, Singing Classes, Ceili Band. Classes on Sundays from 5pm in St. Mary’s SNS Info Pat 086 075 2072 or Rebecca 087 228 2012 www.blessingtoncomhaltascoislocha@gmail.com
West Wicklow General Election Debate. We need West Wicklow & the issues that affect the people here to be a priority for our incoming TDs! Community Pool for West Wicklow have invited all General Election candidates running in Wicklow to take part in a debate to tell us how they are going to represent us. Come along to The Avon on Tuesday February 4th at 8:15pm to have your voice heard & make sure that West Wicklow is firmly on the agenda for our next TDs. For more info or to get involved please email us at poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com
TRY IT OUT, Blessington Mini-Rugby for Tots is looking for new members to play fun & games every Sat @ 10:15am at St Kevin’s Hall, Main St, Blessington (opposite Vincent’s Charity Shop). Ages 3-5 years.
Date for your Diary – Blessington GAA & LGFA Registration night Tues 28th Jan 7pm to 9pm in the clubhouse. Players need to be registered to play & be insured. 2020 sees the launch of Blessington GAA Healthy Club Programme. Watch out for lots of great events, talks and initiatives coming soon.
Adult Fencing Classes will be starting again on Tuesday 21st January from 8pm in St Kevin’s Hall. Fencing is a fun sport & all ages & levels of fitness can enjoy. No special equipment required only comfortable clothes & trainers. All are welcome to pop along & give it a go with no obligation. Call 087 676 4183 if you need any additional information
TABLE QUIZ in Tutty’s Pub Hollywood on 7th February at 9pm Sharp. Table of 4 €40. Proceeds towards Senior Citizens Summer Outing, your support appreciated. Quiz Master “Supreme” Pat O Neill.
West Wicklow Environmental Network meeting in the Avon, Blessington on Thurs 23rd Jan at 7pm. Guest speaker from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) on energy efficiency grants for the home & the supports available for community energy initiatives. A speaker on behalf of the Blessington Sustainable Energy Community will explain what is already happening in the local area. There will also be a presentation on “Rewilding” & what we can do to promote this. All very welcome for this informative evening.
Blessington Library in conjunction with Wicklow Sports & Recreation Partnership, Siel Bleu Ireland & Healthy Ireland will host Chair Exercise Classes – It’s a 6-week programme starting Thurs 23rd Jan from 10am to 11am – All 6 Classes taking place in Blessington Library. Classes are free to attend but booking is essential. This one-hour exercise session for older people aims to improve physical & mental capacities. For more information please contact Blessington Library phone: 045 891 740
Health & Wellbeing Talks at Blessington Library Benefits of Physical Activity with Nathalie Lennon on Thursday 23rd January from 7pm to 8pm, January Nutrition Made Simple with Cliona Mc Carthy – McGreal’s on Thursday 30th January from 7pm to 8pm
St Vincent de Paul 087 181 1579
Iaaue 1288 January 12th 2020
/0 Comments/in Newsletter /by officeFamilies of all children baptised in any of our Churches during 2019 are invited to bring your child for a special blessing at any Mass on this weekend Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th January. This blessing will take place at all Masses in all our churches.
Monday 13th January 2020
►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)
►Children’s Choir Rehearsal from 2.45pm to 3.30pm in Church of Our Lady. All Welcome!!
►Blessington & District Forum meet at 8pm in St Mary’s Junior School. All Welcome
►Neighbourhood Collection Envelopes for January are due. Envelopes may be left into the Parish Office or in collection bags at Mass.
Tuesday 14th January 2020
►Citizens Information Centre in Blessington Library from 1pm to 4pm. Legal advice service on 1st & 3rd Tues of month by appointment
►Blessington & District Active Retired meeting at 2.30pm in the Coimin Centre Blessington, new members welcome.
►Eucharistic Adoration from 7.30pm to 8.30pm in Blessington Church.
Wednesday 15th January 2020
►The Citizens Information Centre is open in Blessington Library today 10am to 12.30pm.
►The Rosary will be offered at 7.30pm for the intentions of our families in Blessington Church
Mass Intentions this Week
Yvonne Mellin (RD) Regina Duffy (RD)
Saturday 6pm:
Leo Howlin (A) Myles (Miley) Balfe (A)
Sunday 10am:
Sean Duffy (1st A) John O’Connor (A) John Byrne (A)
We also Remember the following:
William Bolton, Sean, John & Julia Carroll (A) Rose Hastings, Teddy Shirran, Ann Clarke, Harry Lee, Joan Bird
Monday: Mass for those on list for Sick
Tuesday: Blessington Christmas Mass List
Wednesday: William Bolton (A) Nora Coomey (RD)
Thursday: Thora Leahy (RD) Regina Duffy (RD)
Friday: Frankie Kennedy (RD) Laurie Byrne (RD)
Visitation of the Sick: If there are any parishioners ill, at home or in hospital who would like a visit from a priest, please contact the Parish Office to let us know and to make arrangements 045 865 327
GOAL MILE: Thanks to everyone who came along and supported the Goal Mile on Christmas Day. It’s was our largest one yet and you raised €1200 for charity. Well done!
Applications for Junior Infant places in Sept 2020 in St Mary’s Junior School should be submitted by Friday 24th January 2020. Forms are available from our school website stmarysjns.weebly.com, from the school office between 9am & 3pm Mon – Fri. or from the parish office (9am to 1 Mon – Fri). Completed forms may be dropped into the school office or emailed to Bernadette at bsec@live.ie Please phone with any queries – St Mary’s Junior School 045 865 501.
The Blessington St Patrick’s Day Committee pick a different charity every year that needs help in our community. The proceeds from all our fundraising events for the year, including the St Patrick’s Day Parade event goes to the chosen charity. Last year we raised funds for the Blessington Day Care Centre. The committee, who are all Garda vetted, hold discos in St Joseph’s Hall every month during the school term for boys & girls in 4th to 6th classes in all our schools as a regular fundraiser. On Friday 17th January at 7pm we will be presenting a cheque to the Day Care Committee in the Coimín Centre, Blessington and we would love if everyone could join us. Tea & coffee will be served & we will have cakes donated by cuisine de France. Come see how much we raised!!! A very big thank you to everyone who attends the discos & has made this happen in our community.
Not long to go, to this year’s Panto ROBIN HOOD! Limited tickets still available from The Office Shop & Next Door Off Licence! Thursday 16th to Sunday 19th January. Get yours now to avoid disappointment!
Valleymount Parish Calendar 2020 on sale now, €6 each or 2 for €10 from the Parish Office, Valleymount & Lacken Churches & shops locally. All funds to support Valleymount & Lacken Parish, many thanks to our many sponsors & advertisers for your generous funding.
Hollywood Friendship Club will return on 8th Jan. Wishing all our friends a Happy Christmas & New Year. Hope to see new members in 2020.
Happy Faces Play School Blessington Education Centre is a fun, stimulating & welcoming environment with a curriculum focusing on the best care & education for your child. Our staff are highly trained in up to date childcare & Montessori methods of learning and development. Places available, full & part time. Enrolling now for Sept 2020.
GAELSCOIL NA LOCHANNA, Oíche Oscailte agus Chlárúcháin, 16ú Eanáir 2019 Open/Enrolment night for places in school for next Sept is on 16th January 7:30pm in Gaelscoil (Kilmalum road, Blessington) We also invite parents who might be thinking of joining the Gaelscoil in next few years to come along also. PPS and birth cert required to enrol. 087 938 8651 for enquiries. Fáilte! PLEASE SEE OUR NEW PARENTS’ WEBPAGE www.gsnl.info for all the information new parents may need
Hollywood Friendship Club every Wednesday from 2.15 to 4.15pm in Hollywood Centre New members welcome.Social Dancing on 18th January from 9pm to12 midnight in Donard Community Hall, Donard, Co Wicklow. Refreshments will be served. Social Dancing night will be held the 3rd Saturday of every month to follow.
Cub Scout Blessington. Is your child aged 9-11years, if they are interested in joining scouts & you would like to become a scout leader (free training provided) please contact me aoibheannmc1@yahoo.ie for more details.
GROW Community Mental Health “West Wicklow” Support Group every Wednesday at 7.30pm in Camphill, Grangebeg, Dunlavin. Why not come along & learn more about positive mental health, wellbeing, recovery & how GROW may help you achieve this. New members are always welcome (free of charge). Info: John 086 803 3126 or www.grow.ie
Enriching your Marriage. A Marriage Enrichment Weekend offers married couples of all ages, time away from the busyness of life to refresh their love for one another. The next (residential) weekends (Fri 8pm to Sun 4pm) will be held at the Dromantine Conference Centre, Newry from 31st Jan to 2nd February & at The International Hotel Cork from 3rd to 5th April. For info & booking visit www.marriageencounter.ie or Ph: 087 216 2436.
The Parish Book Club meets 4 times a year. The books chosen for review are varied and are of spiritual & philosophical interest. We notify the book under review here in the newsletter. Our next meeting will be on Thurs 13th Feb at 10am in The Church Meeting Room. The book for discussion is ‘Following Jesus: Finding Our Way Home in an Age of Anxiety’ by Henri Nouwen, SPCK Publishing (17 Sept. 2019). New members are always welcome. Please contact the Parish Office if you are interested and would like to go on the text reminder list.
Retired Civil and Public Servants Association. The Kildare Branch of the RCPSA invites recently & long retired colleagues to the quarterly meeting in the Town House Hotel, Newbridge Rd., Naas, Co Kildare on Tuesday 14th January @ 11.15am Teas/Coffees will be served from 11am. The meeting will be updated on issues applicable to retired colleagues & will conclude with a presentation of the options available on health insurance.
Adult Fencing Classes will be starting again on Tuesday 21st January from 8pm in St Kevin’s Hall. Fencing is a fun sport & all ages & levels of fitness can enjoy. No special equipment required only comfortable clothes & trainers. All are welcome to pop along & give it a go with no obligation. Call 087 676 4183 if you need any additional information
MEDJUGORJE IRISH CENTRE PILGRIMAGES Apr to Oct 2020: 7 Nights inc Airport Shuttle from Dubrovnik or Split €266 per person sharing. Book any flight – any time & we provide guaranteed airport shuttle service. Call us for further info & book the dates that suit you: 01 4434510 or email: reservations@med-irishcentre.com
Blessington Comhaltas Classes in Bodhran, Concertina, Accordion, Whistle, Flute, Beginner Fiddle, Intermediate Fiddle, Tune Classes, Guitar Lessons, Singing Classes, Ceili Band. Classes on Sundays from 5pm in St. Mary’s SNS Info Pat 086 075 2072 or Rebecca 087 228 2012 www.blessingtoncomhaltascoislocha@gmail.com
Lacken Community Centre Calendar 2020 on sale now from Supervalu, Blessington Bookstore, The Office Shop, Blessington Tourist Office, West Wicklow House, Flowers by Enda, Zellers Lacken & Cullens Bar Ballyknocken
LOOKING FOR A GREAT NIGHT OUT? Blessington Bowls meet every Thurs at 7.30pm in St. Kevin’s Hall, Blessington, guests welcome, come along & bring a friend.
Interested in a social cycle in the Blessington area? Led by an experienced volunteer, Cycling Ireland/Axa Community Bike Rides are gentle, social bike rides for adults, usually followed by coffee & chat. New series for beginners added for Wednesdays at 10:30am. Join for FREE at www.AxaCommunityBikeRides.com
FOUND A Silver Ring with 3 diamond bands was found on yard in St Mary’s JS before Christmas. Contact school office for details
Take my hand O Blessed Mother,
Hold me firmly lest I fall,
I am nervous when I am walking,
And to thee I humbly call.
Guide me over every crossing,
Watch me when I am on my way,
Let me know you are beside me,
Listen to my frequent prayers.
Bring me to my destination,
Safely every single day,
Help me with my understanding,
As the hours pass away.
And when evening falls upon me,
And I fear to be alone,
Take my hand O Blessed Mother,
And once again guide me home.
St Vincent de Paul 087 181 1579
Issue 1287 22nd Dec 2019
/0 Comments/in Newsletter /by officeSat/Sun 21st/22nd December 2019
► Mass times as normal in all our Churches this weekend
Monday 23rd December 2019
►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)
Christmas Eve Tues 24th Dec 2019
►Confessions: 12 noon to 1pm in Church of our Lady, Blessington and from 5pm to 6pm in St Brigid’s Church, Manor Kilbride
Christmas Eve Mass Times
►Blessington 5.00pm
►Blessington 7.30pm
►Lacken 7.30pm
►Manor Kilbride 8.00pm
►Eadestown 9.00pm
►Crosschapel 9.00pm
►Valleymount 9.30pm
►Blessington 10.00pm
Christmas Day Wed 25th Dec 2019
Christmas Day Mass Times
►Blessington 10.00am
►Valleymount 10.00am
►Kilteel 10.00am
►Manor Kilbride 11.00am
►Eadestown 11.30am
►Crosschapel 11.30am
►Blessington 11.30am
► GOAL MILE: The annual Goal Mile will take place on Christmas Day at 12:30pm. It happens on the running track at the rear of the Community College, Naas Road. Everyone is welcome to run/walk this event, so come along and support this great cause!
St Stephen’s Day Thurs 26th Dec
►Mass 11am Church of Our Lady Blessington
Sunday 29th December 2019
►Free session of SONGS & TUNES. Zellers, Lacken; 6pm to 9+. Used to sing or play? A ‘novice’? ‘Just a listener’? ALL welcome. ALL ages ANY song, tune, acoustic self-accompaniment. No mic. Just for fun!
Mass Intentions this Week
Sheila Kearns (RD)
Saturday 6pm: Elizabeth Coogan (Mths Mind) Eddie Conroy (Rem) Margaret Roche (A) Claire Twyford (A)
Sunday 10am: Michelle Pender (Mths Mind) Jamie Mahon (A)
We also Remember the following: Bridget McEvoy (1st A) Liam & Roseana O’Hara, Deceased Members of O’Hara Family, John & Bridie Hamilton, Deceased Members of Hamilton Family, Tina Walsh, Patsy Hamilton, William Clarke, May & Jim Breen, Mary Breen, Kathy Ryan, Christina Ryan Fogarty, Anna Ryan, Jimmy & Micky Ryan, Sheila Zeller, Kathleen Smith, Thomas & Ann Eustace, Thomas & Susan Eustace, Patrick & Molly Conway, Mary Pollard, Mary Cullen, Tony, Lil & Brian Kenny, Charles & Catherine Doran, Simon, Rebecca & Maisie Hopkins, Paddy & Dolores Burnett, John & Bernadette Byrne.
Monday 23rd: Mass for those on list for Sick
Christmas Masses: offered for the intentions of all our parishioners
Thursday 26th 11am: Louis Walsh (A) Frank & Olwyn Langan (A) Millicent Jones (A)
Friday 27th 11am: Hannah Smith (A) Katie Kelly, Mary Ann Sargent
Saturday 28th Dec 6pm: Karen McEvoy (1st A) Bill Kinsella (A)
We also Remember the following: Jim & Kitty Nolan, Vincent Bohan, Kay McGrath, Peggy & Pauline O’Brien
Monday 30th December 11am Mass for those on the list for the Sick
Tues 31st Dec 11am Joseph McDonald (A)
Wed 1st January 11am: Special Intention
Thurs 2nd Jan 9.30am: Elsie Hennessy
Friday 3rd Jan 9.30am: 1st Friday Masses offered for all on the Nov List of the Dead
May the Holy Family bring Peace, Joy & Happiness to you & your family this Christmas. We invite you to join with us in celebrating the birth of Jesus.
Archdeacon Kevin Lyon,
Fr. Paraic McDermott,
Fr. Micheál Comer,
Fr. Noel Campbell,
Rev. Deacon Gerry Malone
Áine Egan, Pastoral worker
Fr. Richard Behan P.P.
Reverend Canon Leonard Ruddock
From Thursday 26th December to Wednesday 1st January no weekday Mass in Crosschapel. Mass at 11am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington
Blessington Parish Office
Closed from Monday 23rd December at 1pm and will reopen on Tuesday 7th January at 9am The next edition of the Parish Newsletter will be dated 12th January
Mass Intentions
Sunday 5th Jan 10am: Liam O’Reilly (A) William & Elizabeth Coyle (A) Peter, Mary & Pat Brady
We also Remember the following: Michael Tully Snr (A)
Holy Day Monday 6th Jan 10am: Mass for those on the list for the Sick
Holy Day Monday 6th Jan 8pm: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions
Tuesday 7th Jan 9.30am: Michael Tully Snr (A)
Wednesday 8th Jan 9.30am: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions
Thursday 9th Jan 9.30am: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions
Friday 10th Jan 9.30am: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions
Friday 3rd January 2020
►Bethany Bereavement Support Group are available in the Coimín Centre Blessington for caring confidential support from 10am to 11am
►1st Friday of the Month. The Masses will be offered for all those whose names are on the Altar List of the Dead. The priests will visit the sick & housebound. If you would like a visit please contact the Parish Office, 045 865 327
►1st Friday Mass in Manor Kilbride at 9am.
►1st Friday Mass in Valleymount at 11.15am
►Coffee Morning in Lacken Community Centre from 10.30am to 12.30pm
►Padre Pio Mass at 8pm in Blessington.
Monday 6th January 2020
► Feast of the Epiphany – Holy Day Masses:
10.00am: Church of Our Lady Blessington
11.00am: Manor Kilbride
11.15am Valleymount
11.30am: Crosschapel
11.30am Eadestown
8.00pm: Blessington
Wednesday 7th January 2020
►Bethany Bereavement Support group available for caring confidential support from 8pm to 9pm no appointment necessary.
Ring in the New Year with the Bells of St. Mary’s and the Blessington & District forum
The community of Blessington & District are invited to greet 2020 in a new way this New Year’s Eve. Blessington Forum in conjunction with St Mary’s Church, Blessington, is encouraging everyone to ring out the old year & ring in the new one accompanied by the church’s historic bells. People are encouraged to gather in the Square Blessington at 11.45pm on December 31st where they will be given tea lights. The church’s bells will toll for 10 minutes in the run up to midnight to ring out 2019. The bells will fall silent for a time before12 single strokes are rung at midnight. Then all the bells will ring in the new year. People will light their tea lights on the stroke of midnight bringing light into the darkness at the dawn of the new year bringing hope to our community for 2020
Valleymount Parish Calendar 2020 on sale now, €6 each or 2 for €10 from the Parish Office, Valleymount & Lacken Churches & shops locally. All funds to support Valleymount & Lacken Parish, many thanks to our many sponsors & advertisers for your generous funding.
Hollywood Friendship Club will return on 8th Jan. Wishing all our friends a Happy Christmas & New Year. Hope to see new members in 2020.
Happy Faces Play School Blessington Education Centre is a fun, stimulating & welcoming environment with a curriculum focusing on the best care & education for your child. Our staff are highly trained in up to date childcare & Montessori methods of learning and development. Places available, full & part time. Enrolling now for Sept 2020.
Community Pool for West Wicklow Christmas Monster Raffle! Prizes include a family pass for Kaleidoscope, Afternoon Tea at Ballymaloe, dinner for two at Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort & much, much more! Tickets €5 each & 4 for €20 at www.tinyurl.com/CPWWMonsterRaffle All monies raised go towards a pool for West Wicklow. Draw in Murphy’s Bar on Sun Dec 22nd. For more information email poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com.
Blessington Comhaltas Classes in Bodhran, Concertina, Accordion, Whistle, Flute, Beginner Fiddle, Intermediate Fiddle, Tune Classes, Guitar Lessons, Singing Classes, Ceili Band. Classes on Sundays from 5pm in St. Mary’s SNS Info Pat 086 075 2072 or Rebecca 087 228 2012 www.blessingtoncomhaltascoislocha@gmail.com
Lacken Community Centre Calendar 2020 on sale now from Supervalu, Blessington Bookstore, The Office Shop, Blessington Tourist Office, West Wicklow House, Flowers by Enda, Zellers Lacken & Cullens Bar Ballyknocken
Happy Christmas to all our Mini-Rugby Players from Blessington RFC!!
LOOKING FOR A GREAT NIGHT OUT? Blessington Bowls meet every Thurs at 7.30pm in St. Kevin’s Hall, Blessington, guests welcome, come along & bring a friend.
West Wicklow Cancer Support: – Would like to wish everyone a Wonderful Christmas and a healthy and Happy New Year. There will be no monthly drop in on the last Thursday of the month (December). Our next Drop will be on Thursday 30th January 2020. We are available on 087 434 6004 or by email westwicklow15@gmail.com over the holiday season. Thank you to all for your ongoing support. “The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it”
Interested in a social cycle in the Blessington area? Led by an experienced volunteer, Cycling Ireland/Axa Community Bike Rides are gentle, social bike rides for adults, usually followed by coffee & chat. New series for beginners added for Wednesdays at 10:30am. Join for FREE at www.AxaCommunityBikeRides.com
Adults Beginners Fencing Classes on Tuesdays from 8pm to 9.30pm in St Kevin’s Hall
St. Vincent De Paul would like to offer our sincere gratitude for all the donations we received last weekend. If anyone still wishes to donate, can you please drop it into the Parish Office marked for SVP. All donations dropped in here remain in Blessington & the surrounding areas & 100% of donations are distributed to those in need. Any donations left in the SVP Shop are sent to Dublin.
Many Thanks to all who helped make the Christmas Concert in Valleymount such a huge success. Mass will be offered for your intentions.
GAELSCOIL NA LOCHANNA, Oíche Oscailte agus Chlárúcháin, 16ú Eanáir 2019 Open/Enrolment night for places in school for next Sept is on 16th January 7:30pm in Gaelscoil (Kilmalum road, Blessington) We also invite parents who might be thinking of joining the Gaelscoil in next few years to come along also. PPS and birth cert required to enrol. 087 938 8651 for enquiries. Fáilte! PLEASE SEE OUR NEW PARENTS’ WEBPAGE www.gsnl.info for all the information new parents may need.
OÍCHE NOLLAG 2019 AIFREANN NA GINE Dé Máirt 24 Nollaig
Masses in Irish on Christmas Eve
7.30 p.m. ARD AIDHIN, AIREAGAL AN AISÉIRÍ Bóthar na Cille Móire, Baile Átha Cliath 5
ARTANE, Oratory of the Resurrection, Kilmore Road, Dublin 5
9.00 p.m. BELFIELD, AN SÉIPÉAL OLLSCOILE An Coláiste Ollscoile, Baile Átha Cliath 4
BELFIELD, University Chapel, UCD, Dublin 4
St Vincent de Paul 087 181 1579