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Issue 1360 June 20th 2021
TWELFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 20th June 2021. The gospel is an invitation to faith; to believe in the presence of Christ even when he seems far away. This is part of the darkness of our relationship with God; faith in him is the dawn that follows darkness.
Mass Intentions this week
Marie Healy (RD) Hollywood, John Joseph Ryan (RD) Clonmel, Donnagh O’Brien (RD) UK, Gerry O’Hanlon (RD) Canada, Sheila Hearns (RD) Blessington
Saturday 6pm: Noel Kelly (Months Mind), Jimmy Mahon (1st A), Paddy Byrne (20th A) Mary Brady (A)
Sunday 10am: Paddy Byrne (20th A), Tim & Teresa Murphy (A), Kevin Shiels (A) James Kavanagh (A), Larry, Mary & Matthew Lennon (A)Michael & Ann-Mary Norton (Rem)
We remember the following: John & Sarah McGee, Daragh Rowan, Bridget Moorhead, Walter Shirran, Vincent Bohan, James, Ellen & Denis Bohan, Dick Keogh, Margaret Glennon
Monday: Mass for Blessington List of the Sick
Tuesday: John & Sarah McGee (A), Daragh Rowan (A)
Wednesday: Josephine Horgan (A), Angela Toomey (RD)
Thursday: Mass offered for all on the Blessington Deceased Mass Card List
Friday: Pat McNamara (RD) James Rooney (RD)
►Saturday 19th June: 6pm Mass in Blessington, 7.30pm in Lacken
►Sunday 20th June: 10am Mass in Blessington, 11am in Manor Kilbride, 11.15 in Valleymount
►Daily Mass: 9am Manor Kilbride, 9.30am Blessington
SATURDAY & SUNDAY MASSES – Due to the continued restrictions on numbers allowed to gather indoors it necessary that people apply for a ticket if they wish to attend 6pm Mass on Saturday or 10am Mass on Sunday in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Tickets must be collected in the Parish Office between 9.30am & 1pm Mon to Fri 045 865 327
All Masses & Services are still available via Webcam www.blessingtonparish.ie
The Rosary will resume on Wednesday 7th July from 7pm to 8pm in Church of Our Lady, Blessington and will be offered for the intentions of our families.
Dear Parishioner, The last year has been a very strange one & much of what we have taken for granted in our Church has changed. One of the areas where the impact of lower numbers & ongoing months of Church closures has had an effect is on the first collection which supports the priests of the Parish & the sick & retired priests of the Diocese. We have been very grateful for your financial support online and through donations left in the post-box in the Church. This, with your commitment to the Christmas & Easter Dues, has enabled the Common Fund (Diocesan Fund) to support the Priests here in our parish & in other parishes. However, the Common Fund, which is made up of the first collection, Christmas & Easter dues, is at an all-time low. We have been asked by the Diocese to introduce a ‘Summer Dues’ to help with this. We will not be posting out envelopes for this, but we will have envelopes in all our Churches that you can take as you visit the Church during the summer months. We are very aware that everyone’s situation has changed, & we appreciate all your support. Your continued support is very much appreciated. Fr Richard.
Blessington Outdoor Car Boot Sale at St. Kevin’s Hall on Sunday 27th June from 7am to 4pm (Des Redmond Charities) Free Car Parking. Toilets. Tables €10. Info: 086 075 2072 – Pat Conlan. Bigi Linn…Bargains Galore! Covid Restrictions in Operation!
St Mary’s Schools and Blessington Parish Lotto. Jackpot: €5000. Congratulations to the recent weekly winner of €25 on 17th June, Sarah Flynn – Numbers drawn: 5, 21, 27, 30. If you’re not in, you can’t win! Text the word Blessington to 51444 or go to www.blessingtonparish.ie Thanks to all for the support! https://www.ourparishfundraiser.ie/parish/blessington/
Monthly Envelopes for the Month of June can be dropped into the Parish Office, Post Box in Church or to the collection boxes at Mass. Many thanks to all contributors for your continued support. Contact the Parish Office if you would like to begin a monthly donation.
MARY’S SCHOOLS PARENTS ASSOCIATION present a VIRTUAL 5K THIS WEEKEND! A fun-based event which you can walk, jog or run or even put the little ones on their bikes or scooters! Friday 18th to Sunday 20th June. is now open. This is a virtual event, which means you can complete the 5km where and when you like, once it is within the designated weekend. You are invited to register at Justruns Events website www.justrunsevents.com and when finished, post your results to the results page. There will be spot prizes for a number of categories. To be eligible you need to submit your 5km time. Some of the Spot prizes will be photo based, such as: Fancy Dress or Family Photo. To be in with a chance of winning enter a time for completing the 5km to the results page & share a photo to our Facebook page. EVERYONE IN THE COMMUNITY IS WELCOME TO JOIN IN!
West Wicklow Cancer Support continues to offer a support service remotely to our service users and the wider Blessington Community. If your life has been touched by cancer in any way by a diagnosis or caring for someone our volunteers are here for you. We continue to offer weekly meditation and Art Canvas painting and will endeavour to assist you should you need any information or advice. Contact us on 087 4346004 or by email westwicklow15@gmail.com “The greatest healing therapy is friendship and love” stay well and stay safe.
Cruthú Art Gallery at Russborough will be open Saturdays/Sundays/Bank Holidays throughout the summer from 12 noon – 4pm. Our members have been very creative over the last 12 months and we are looking forward to exhibiting exciting new art pieces that will be available for purchase. We look forward to seeing you soon and please remember to mind the social distancing rules. www.cruthu.ie or contact us at cruthuart@gmail.com Also check out the Cruthú Art display at Blessington Tourist Office.
Blessington Library is open for browsing and borrowing. Opening hours for May: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10am to 5pm Tuesday, Thursday 10am to 8.30pm We look forward to seeing you! 045 891 740 blessingtonlib@wicklowcoco.ie
Blessington Union of Parishes are available on the parish YouTube channel by searching for “Blessington Union” or at this link https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=blessington+union
Fr Kevin’s Homilies are always available on our website: https://blessingtonparish.ie/homilies-year-b/
Support for PARISH FINANCES – Blessington, Crosschapel, Manor Kilbride, Valleymount / Lacken
Monthly / Weekly Envelopes: Contact Jean in the Parish Office if you would like to make a monthly/weekly envelope contribution or if you would like to re-join if you used to contribute.
Online: Donations / Contributions can be made via the “Donate” button on the parish website (options available for all our Churches.)
Bank Standing Order: If you would like to set up a monthly standing order through your bank, please contact Jean in the Parish Office
Parish Development Fund (PDF): Donations through the black PDF boxes in Blessington Church also go towards the running of the parish.
Shrines: The donations to shrines remains in the parish.
For the first time in over 50 years, the development of a swimming pool in West Wicklow is included in a Wicklow County Development Plan! This is a huge achievement which was made possible because of the support that our campaign for a pool for West Wicklow has received from our community. Thank you. The Wicklow County Development Draft Plan is now open for Public Consultation. and we need your help!We need EVERYONE to make a submission about how much we need a Pool for West Wicklow & remind Wicklow County Council how important it is for our community! There are 3 ways that you can make a submission:
By Post: Write/Draw why a Pool for West Wicklow is important to you & post it to Wicklow County Development Plan, County Development Plan Review, Planning Department, Wicklow Co Council, Station Road, Wicklow Town
Online: Create an account at the Wicklow County Council Consultation Portal at www.consult.wicklow.ie & submit your letter of support there.
As Part of Community Pool for West Wicklow’s Submission: Email us your letter and/or drawing of support for a Pool for West Wicklow and we will include it as part of our submission. Our email address is poolforwestwicklow@gmail.com Make sure to include your name and address in your submission. Tell Wicklow County Council why having a Pool in West Wicklow is important for you, your family, your Sports Club, your Community Group, your Business, or your School. You must be over 16 to make a submission but children can write letters or draw pictures about why having a swimming pool in West Wicklow is important to them and these letters and drawings can be included in a family or group submission. Your children can send us their letters and pictures and we will include them in our submission! The Draft County Development Plan can be viewed online at https://consult.wicklow.ieOr You can view the Draft Wicklow County Development Plan in person at the following locations:
Please check the Council’s website or call 0404 20100 for arrangements to access to these buildings as appointments may be necessary having regard to prevailing COVID precautions. The DEADLINE for submissions is Monday August 16th at 5pm! We plan to host a number of online information sessions on how to make a submission to the Wicklow County Development Plan to talk you through the online Consultation Portal. More details about these to follow soon. If you have any questions or need any help with your submission, please email us at poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com Thank you for your continued support. Together we will get a Pool for West Wicklow! Deirdre, Jane, Marion, Sue & David, Community Pool for West Wicklow Committee
Show kindness to unkind people. Forgive people who don’t deserve it. Love unconditionally. Your actions always reflect who you are.
St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579
Experienced, Friendly, Fun Local Babysitter Available; contact Holly 085 827 7177
We are delighted to announce we have 3 positions on the Blessington & District Community Employment Scheme. Please note you must be in receipt of a Social Welfare payment to qualify.
Job Ref: CES2182390, Closing Date 13th July 2021. Burgage Cemetery Groundskeeper.
Job Ref: CES 2182391, Closing Date 1st July 2021. Ballymore Parish Secretary.
Job Ref: Ces2182393, Closing Date 1st July 2021. St Vincent De Paul Retail Assistant
Contact Martin Cahill 085 252 3563 or email martincahill@blessingtonce.ie
Jones Power Tools Ltd. Sales, Service and Repairs. Specialises in Stihl and Honda. Stockists of Fleetwood Paint. Contact:- info@jonespowertools.ie Phone:- 059 648 1033
Tatty Tails Dog Grooming Salon. Professional dog groomer and veterinary nurse. Have your pet pampered in a purpose built salon. IPDGA member and insured. Call Avril – 087 358 7275
Castle Canine Cuts – Dog Grooming Service, 1-to-1 grooming for small to large breeds, open Monday to Saturday by appointment only, find us on Facebook or call Gillian 087 764 1911
Painter & Decorator, Interior & Exterior. Ph: Damien 085 826 0431
Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. We are open during COVID lockdown for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs, Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30 Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045-891 056 for an appointment.
Gardening – For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Fruit Tree pruning, Painting etc Phone Mark 085 133 7714
Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook
German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997 www.germanautoworks.ie
Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com
Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie
HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487 www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com
KARE – Community Employment Vacancies in the following areas: Support Workers, Childcare Assistants, Clerical/Administration, Receptionist, Accounts/Finance, Maintenance, Caretakers/Grounds Maintenance. Various locations in Kildare/Newbridge, Naas/Clane, Kilcullen/Athy, Baltinglass/Blessington/Tinahely. For further information contact: KARE CE Adult Supports Team veronica.roche@kare.ie elaine.noan@kare.ie KARE CE Childcare mairead.kavanagh@kare.ie Phone: 045 448 700
Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327
Issue 1359 June 13th 2021
ELEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 13th June 2021. The presence of God in our world is not always visible and His kingdom grows slowly. We are invited to grow in the confidence that God is always with us, even in the face of trials and evils.
Mass Intentions this week
Marie Healy (RD) Hollywood
Saturday 6pm: Jimmy Keogh (A) Dick Byrne (A) Christopher Brady Jnr (A) Siobhan Warren (A)
Sunday 10am: Kathleen Kelly (A) Paddy Howlin (A) John Jameson (A) Tom Cullen (A) Paddy Cullen (A)
We remember the following:
Monday: Mass for Blessington List of the Sick
Tuesday: Una Broe (RD) Nancy Murphy (RD)
Wednesday: Peter Healy (RD) Sadie O’Riordan (RD)
Thursday: Andy Farrington (RD) John Lipsett (RD)
Friday: Brendan Clarke (A) Bill Kelly (RD)
►Saturday 12th June: 6pm Mass in Blessington, 7.30pm in Lacken
►Sunday 13th June: 10am Mass in Blessington, 11am in Manor Kilbride, 11.15 in Valleymount
►Daily Mass: 9am Manor Kilbride, 9.30am Blessington
SATURDAY & SUNDAY MASSES. Due to the continued restrictions on numbers allowed to gather indoors it necessary that people apply for a ticket if they wish to attend 6pm Mass on Saturday or 10am Mass on Sunday in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Tickets must be collected in the Parish Office between 9.30am & 1pm, Mon to Fri 045 865 327
All Masses & Services are still available via Webcam www.blessingtonparish.ie
Blessington, Valleymount & Lacken Parishes are members of Eco Congregation Ireland. Last year we were awarded a certificate of Awareness for our efforts to promote Care of the earth & sustainable living through practical & spiritual means. In recent weeks we have planted bee pollinator plants & wildflower seed in the grounds of Valleymount & Lacken churches. We hope this will provide our bees with a good source of pollen & nectar. We also encourage people to pray for the earth especially in the all-important growing season of the summer months Pope Francis asks us to introduce these prayers regularly in our prayer of the faithful & in a Communion Reflection.
Cruthú Art Gallery at Russborough will be open Saturdays/Sundays/Bank Holidays throughout the summer from 12 noon – 4pm. Our members have been very creative over the last 12 months and we are looking forward to exhibiting exciting new art pieces that will be available for purchase. We look forward to seeing you soon and please remember to mind the social distancing rules. www.cruthu.ie or contact us at cruthuart@gmail.com Also check out the Cruthú Art display at Blessington Tourist Office.
Blessington Food, Arts & Crafts starts this Saturday 12th June @Brew21 from 10am till 2pm. Join us for a browse a brew and a belly full this Saturday.
Blessington Library is open for browsing and borrowing. Opening hours for May: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10am to 5pm Tuesday, Thursday 10am to 8.30pm We look forward to seeing you! 045 891 740 blessingtonlib@wicklowcoco.ie
MARY’S SCHOOLS PARENTS ASSOCIATION present a VIRTUAL 5K A fun based event which you can walk, jog or run or even put the little ones on their bikes or scooters! Taking place on the weekend of Friday 18th to Sunday 20th June. Registration is now open. This is a virtual event, which means you can complete the 5km where and when you like, once it is within the designated weekend. You are invited to register at Justruns Events website www.justrunsevents.com and when finished, post your results to the results page. There will be spot prizes for a number of categories. To be eligible you need to submit a time for completing the 5km. Some of the Spot prizes will be photo based, such as Fancy Dress or Family Photo. To be in with a chance of winning enter a time for completing the 5km to the results page & share a photo to our Facebook page. More details on this will follow as we get closer to the event. EVERYONE IN THE COMMUNITY IS WELCOME TO JOIN IN!
Hennessey’s of Blessington – This year, 2021 Hennessey’s celebrate 100 years of business in Blessington. To commemorate this special year, we have a museum in our Hardware Store with artifacts and photographs of local people, old family photos, unusual items of interest etc. We will be open on Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm. If you would like to visit our museum, we will allocate a time slot. Please TEXT 087 674 1286 to book a time. Remember to wear a mask. Looking forward to welcoming you all.
Blessington Educate Together National School are accepting limited enrolments for our Junior Infants, older Mainstream classes and our Junior ASD class for the next academic year 2021-2022. Enrolment forms are available on our website www.betns.ie You can also contact us in the office on 045 865 281 or email office@betns.ie
Gaelscoil na Lochanna (established 15 years) is now accepting enrolments for the new school year. Our children learn to speak Irish quickly and learn everything through Irish. A Brand new school building is on the way. We are launching a New “Aistear” Infant play room in September. Parents do not need Irish to start children in school. gsnl.info, www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com All enquiries to 045 900 525, or 087 938 8651 or via website. Fáilte
St Brigid’s N.S. Manor Kilbride are accepting enrolments for the next school year: 2021 – 2022. To enrol your child, please call Charlotte in our school office 01 458 2550 or find the enrolment documents on our school website http://manorkilbridens.scoilnet.ie/blog/
Lacken National School are now accepting enrolments for Mainstream and Early Intervention Classes for September 2021. School bus runs daily from/to Blessington. The school offers afterschool care for Junior and Senior Infants until 2.30 pm. Lacken School also has a pre-school facility which is ECCE and NCS approved. Enrolment forms can be downloaded from www.lackenns.com or please contact the school office on 045 865 086 or lackenschool@eircom.net
Blessington Union of Parishes are available on the parish YouTube channel by searching for “Blessington Union” or at this link
West Wicklow Cancer Support – If your life has been touched by cancer in any way, we are here for you, contact us on 087 434 6004 / westwicklow15@gmail.com or find us on Facebook. “Nobody is exempt from the trials of life but everyone can always find something positive in everything even in the worst of times. Keep smiling and moving, we are stronger together”
Fr Kevin’s Homilies are always available on our website: https://blessingtonparish.ie/homilies-year-b/
Support for PARISH FINANCES – Blessington, Crosschapel, Manor Kilbride, Valleymount / Lacken
Monthly / Weekly Envelopes: Contact Jean in the Parish Office if you would like to make a monthly/weekly envelope contribution or if you would like to re-join if you used to contribute.
Online: Donations / Contributions can be made via the “Donate” button on the parish website (options available for all our Churches.)
Bank Standing Order: If you would like to set up a monthly standing order through your bank, please contact Jean in the Parish Office
Parish Development Fund (PDF): Donations through the black PDF boxes in Blessington Church also go towards the running of the parish.
Shrines: The donations to shrines remains in the parish.
St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579
We are delighted to announce we have 3 positions on the Blessington & District Community Employment Scheme. Please note you must be in receipt of a Social Welfare payment to qualify.
Job Ref: CES2182390, Closing Date 13th July 2021. Burgage Cemetery Groundskeeper.
Job Ref: CES 2182391, Closing Date 1st July 2021. Ballymore Parish Secretary.
Job Ref: Ces2182393, Closing Date 1st July 2021. St Vincent De Paul Retail Assistant
Contact Martin Cahill 085 252 3563 or email martincahill@blessingtonce.ie
Jones Power Tools Ltd. Sales, Service and Repairs. Specialises in Stihl and Honda. Stockists of Fleetwood Paint. Contact:- info@jonespowertools.ie Phone:- 059 648 1033
Tatty Tails Dog Grooming Salon. Professional dog groomer and veterinary nurse. Have your pet pampered in a purpose built salon. IPDGA member and insured. Call Avril – 087 358 7275
Happy Faces is seeking relief staff, mornings only 9.15am to 12.15pm minimum Level 5 required. Please email happyfaces@blessingtonfec.ie
Castle Canine Cuts – Dog Grooming Service, 1-to-1 grooming for small to large breeds, open Monday to Saturday by appointment only, find us on Facebook or call Gillian 087 764 1911
Painter & Decorator, Interior & Exterior. Ph: Damien 085 826 0431
Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. We are open during COVID lockdown for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs, Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30 Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045-891 056 for an appointment.
Gardening – For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Fruit Tree pruning, Painting etc Phone Mark 085 133 7714
Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook
German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997 www.germanautoworks.ie
Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com
Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie
HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487 www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com
KARE – Community Employment Vacancies in the following areas: Support Workers, Childcare Assistants, Clerical/Administration, Receptionist, Accounts/Finance, Maintenance, Caretakers/Grounds Maintenance. Various locations in Kildare/Newbridge, Naas/Clane, Kilcullen/Athy, Baltinglass/Blessington/Tinahely. For further information contact: KARE CE Adult Supports Team veronica.roche@kare.ie elaine.noan@kare.ie KARE CE Childcare mairead.kavanagh@kare.ie Phone: 045 448 700
Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327
Issue 1358 6th June 2021
THE MOST HOLY BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST – 6th June 2021. Today is our celebration that Jesus is present always with us, in signs we can recognise but not understand. It is a feast of the mystery of his presence, always close to his people.
Mass Intentions this week
Brendan Clarke (RD) Blessington, John Lipsett (RD) Blessington
Saturday 6pm: Bill Garry (A) Mick Curran (A) Vera Byrne (Birthday Remembrance) Mary Kavanagh (A)
Sunday 10am: Nora O’Hara (A) Michael Connolly (RD) Colette Kelly (A)
We remember the following: James Cullen, Essie & Paddy Murray, Mairead Hudson, Hudson & Carroll Families, Vin Duffler
Monday: Mass for Blessington List of the Sick
Tuesday: Gerry Hayes (Months Mind) Vera Byrne (Birthday Rem) Kathleen Balfe (A)
Wednesday: John Richardson (Months Mind) Una Broe (RD)
Thursday: Joe Roche (40th A) 10th Wedding Anniversary Exam Mass Int, Exam Mass Int
Friday: Martin Burke (A) Martin, Teresa & John O’Hara (Rem)
►Saturday 5th June: 6pm Mass
►Sunday 6th June: Mass at 10am
►Daily Mass: 9am Manor Kilbride, 9.30am Blessington – 10am Crosschapel
SATURDAY & SUNDAY MASSES. Due to the continued restrictions on numbers allowed to gather indoors it necessary that people apply for a ticket if they wish to attend 6pm Mass on Saturday or 10am Mass on Sunday in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Tickets must be collected in the Parish Office between 9.30am & 1pm, Mon to Fri 045 865 327
All Masses & Services are still available via Webcam www.blessingtonparish.ie
A time of grace and reflection – Sacred Heart Novena 2021 continues to Friday 11th June, Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Join us in prayer every morning at 9.30am Mass as we draw strength and hope from the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Prayer leaflets will be available in the Church porch.
2021 Private Members Draw In aid of Valleymount & Lacken Churches. Winners for May, draw held on the 30th May. Kathleen O’ Sullivan, Mary Tipper, Peter O’ Sullivan, Peter Clarke, Joan & Sean Farrington.
FAMILIES WALKING TOGETHER IN HOPE – The ‘Walking Together in Hope’ initiative will be launched on 25th August at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral. The Archdiocese of Dublin will provide some simple & achievable ideas for families & parishes starting in September. We want to encourage families to take part in various initiatives to support faith lived in the home & celebrated together in our parishes. Our goal is to celebrate moments of hope & joy in family life, with resources suitable for learning, living & leading faith that are complementary to the way family is lived today.
Valleymount Weekly Envelopes for the Support of the Parish June 2021 –May 2022. This year’s boxes of envelopes are now available to collect from Valleymount Church porch. This collection is a vital way to raise funds for the running of the parish and we are most grateful for your continued support with your generous weekly contributions. If you would like to sign up to contribute through the Family Offering Envelopes, please call Jean in the Parish Office in Blessington 045 865 327
MARY’S SCHOOLS PARENTS ASSOCIATION present a VIRTUAL 5K A fun based event which you can walk, jog or run or even put the little ones on their bikes or scooters! Taking place on the weekend of Friday 18th to Sunday 20th June. Registration is now open. This is a virtual event, which means you can complete the 5km where and when you like, once it is within the designated weekend. You are invited to register at Justruns Events website www.justrunsevents.com and when finished, post your results to the results page. There will be spot prizes for a number of categories. To be eligible you need to submit a time for completing the 5km. Some of the Spot prizes will be photo based, such as Fancy Dress or Family Photo. To be in with a chance of winning enter a time for completing the 5km to the results page & share a photo to our Facebook page. nMore details on this will follow as we get closer to the event. EVERYONE IN THE COMMUNITY IS WELCOME TO JOIN IN!
Blessington Educate Together National School are accepting limited enrolments for our Junior Infants, older Mainstream classes and our Junior ASD class for the next academic year 2021-2022. Enrolment forms are available on our website www.betns.ie You can also contact us in the office on 045 865 281 or email office@betns.ie
Gaelscoil na Lochanna (established 15 years) is now accepting enrolments for the new school year. Our children learn to speak Irish quickly and learn everything through Irish. A Brand new school building is on the way. We are launching a New “Aistear” Infant play room in September. Parents do not need Irish to start children in school. gsnl.info, www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com All enquiries to 045 900 525, or 087 938 8651 or via website. Fáilte
St Brigid’s N.S. Manor Kilbride are accepting enrolments for the next school year: 2021 – 2022. To enrol your child, please call Charlotte in our school office 01 458 2550 or find the enrolment documents on our school website http://manorkilbridens.scoilnet.ie/blog/
Lacken National School are now accepting enrolments for Mainstream and Early Intervention Classes for September 2021. School bus runs daily from/to Blessington. The school offers afterschool care for Junior and Senior Infants until 2.30 pm. Lacken School also has a pre-school facility which is ECCE and NCS approved. Enrolment forms can be downloaded from www.lackenns.com or please contact the school office on 045 865 086 or lackenschool@eircom.net
Blessington Library is open for browsing and borrowing. Opening hours for May: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10am to 5pm Tuesday, Thursday 10am to 8.30pm We look forward to seeing you! 045 891 740 blessingtonlib@wicklowcoco.ie
Hennessey’s of Blessington – This year, 2021 Hennessey’s celebrate 100 years of business in Blessington. To commemorate this special year, we have a museum in our Hardware Store with artifacts and photographs of local people, old family photos, unusual items of interest etc. We will be open on Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm. If you would like to visit our museum, we will allocate a time slot. Please TEXT 087 674 1286 to book a time. Remember to wear a mask. Looking forward to welcoming you all.
Blessington Union of Parishes are available on the parish YouTube channel by searching for “Blessington Union” or at this link
St Mary’s Schools and Blessington Parish Lotto. Jackpot: €4950 – Congratulations to the recent weekly winner of €25 on 3rd June, William Roche – Numbers drawn: 5, 13, 15, 19 – If you’re not in you can’t win! Text the word Blessington to 51444 or go to www.blessingtonparish.ie Thanks to all for the support!
West Wicklow Cancer Support – If your life has been touched by cancer in any way, we are here for you, contact us on 087 434 6004 / westwicklow15@gmail.com or find us on Facebook. “Nobody is exempt from the trials of life but everyone can always find something positive in everything even in the worst of times. Keep smiling and moving, we are stronger together”
Fr Kevin’s Homilies are always available on our website: https://blessingtonparish.ie/homilies-year-b/
Support for PARISH FINANCES – Blessington, Crosschapel, Manor Kilbride, Valleymount / Lacken
Monthly / Weekly Envelopes: Contact Jean in the Parish Office if you would like to make a monthly/weekly envelope contribution or if you would like to re-join if you used to contribute.
Online: Donations / Contributions can be made via the “Donate” button on the parish website (options available for all our Churches.)
Bank Standing Order: If you would like to set up a monthly standing order through your bank, please contact Jean in the Parish Office
Parish Development Fund (PDF): Donations through the black PDF boxes in Blessington Church also go towards the running of the parish.
Shrines: The donations to shrines remains in the parish.
Be a good person, but don’t waste your time trying to prove it…
St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579
Ladies Get into Golf Programme – Venue:- Blessington Lakes Golf Club, Boystown, Valleymount, Co. Wicklow. Commencing Wednesday 16th June at 8.00pm – 8 week beginner programme including lessons with PGA professional, Tom O’Neill – Equipment provided – Sample chipping, putting and long game – Fun, on course scramble with members – Social and friendly environment – Follow on membership offers. – Cost €80.00. For more information contact: Mairead Hackett 086 824 6721, Helen Farrell 087 275 9100, Clubhouse 045 867 146 Email blessingtonlakesgc2018@gmail.com
Jones Power Tools Ltd. Sales, Service and Repairs. Specialises in Stihl and Honda. Stockists of Fleetwood Paint. Contact:- info@jonespowertools.ie Phone:- 059 648 1033
Tatty Tails Dog Grooming Salon. Professional dog groomer and veterinary nurse. Have your pet pampered in a purpose built salon. IPDGA member and insured. Call Avril – 087 358 7275
Happy Faces is seeking relief staff, mornings only 9.15am to 12.15pm minimum Level 5 required. Please email happyfaces@blessingtonfec.ie
Castle Canine Cuts – Dog Grooming Service, 1-to-1 grooming for small to large breeds, open Monday to Saturday by appointment only, find us on Facebook or call Gillian 087 764 1911
Painter & Decorator, Interior & Exterior. Ph: Damien 085 826 0431
Luxury Irish Gift Boxes – Solace Sister Gifts. Our gift boxes are perfect for all occasions; Birthdays, New Mothers & Babies, Thank You Gifts, Sympathy Gifts or simply ‘Just Because’. Website: www.solacesistergifts.ie
Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. We are open during COVID lockdown for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs, Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30 Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045-891 056 for an appointment.
Gardening – For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Fruit Tree pruning, Painting etc Phone Mark 085 133 7714
Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook
German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997 www.germanautoworks.ie
Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com
Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie
HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487 www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com
Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327
Issue 1357 May 30th 2021
TRINITY SUNDAY 30th May 2021
Holy Trinity look down on our world & see that many people, old & young, rich & poor, are lost and need God’s presence. Thus, they send Jesus among us, the one who saves us, who is God’s love & companion among us.
Mass Intentions this week
Una Broe, (RD) Brittas, & late of Blessington, Andy Farrington, (RD) Ballyknockan, Caroline Nugent (RD) Kildare Town
Saturday 6pm: Emma Gale (1st A), Agnes Reilly (Mths Mind), Myles & Tess Reilly (Rem), Nancy Kelly (Rem) Mick Clarke (A)
Sunday 10am: Annie Kilbride, Maureen Cuddy (A), Ann Brady (A) Jim Toomey (A)
We remember the following: Sp Intentions for Family & Friends, Larry Smith (A)
Monday: Mass for Blessington List of the Sick
Tuesday: Get Well Mass, Thinking of You Mass
Wednesday: Berkeley Vincent (RD), Morgan O’Connell (RD)
Thursday: Eithne Daly (RD), Kieran Stynes (A)
Friday: 1st Friday Mass offered for all on the November List of the Dead
►Saturday 29th May: 6pm Mass
►Sunday 30th May: Mass at 10am
►Daily Mass: 9am Manor Kilbride, 9.30am Blessington – 10am Crosschapel
►Friday 7th May: 1st Friday: Masses offered for all on the Altar List of the Dead
SATURDAY & SUNDAY MASSES. Due to the continued restrictions on numbers allowed to gather indoors it necessary that people apply for a ticket if they wish to attend 6pm Mass on Saturday or 10am Mass on Sunday in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Tickets must be collected in the Parish Office between 9.30am & 1pm, Mon to Fri 045 865 327
All Masses & Services are still available via Webcam www.blessingtonparish.ie
A time of grace and reflection – Sacred Heart Novena 2021. Thursday 3rd June to Friday 11th June, Church of Our Lady, Blessington. Join us in prayer every morning at 9.30am Mass as we draw strength and hope from the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Prayer leaflets will be available in the Church porch.
FAMILIES WALKING TOGETHER IN HOPE – The ‘Walking Together in Hope’ initiative will be launched on 25th August at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral. The Archdiocese of Dublin will provide some simple & achievable ideas for families & parishes starting in September. We want to encourage families to take part in various initiatives to support faith lived in the home & celebrated together in our parishes. Our goal is to celebrate moments of hope & joy in family life, with resources suitable for learning, living & leading faith that are complementary to the way family is lived today.
Valleymount Weekly Envelopes for the Support of the Parish June 2021 –May 2022. This year’s boxes of envelopes are now available to collect from Valleymount Church porch. This collection is a vital way to raise funds for the running of the parish and we are most grateful for your continued support with your generous weekly contributions. If you would like to sign up to contribute through the Family Offering Envelopes, please call Jean in the Parish Office in Blessington 045 865 327
MARY’S SCHOOLS PARENTS ASSOCIATION present a VIRTUAL 5K A fun based event which you can walk, jog or run or even put the little ones on their bikes or scooters! Taking place on the weekend of Friday 18th to Sunday 20th June. Registration is now open. This is a virtual event, which means you can complete the 5km where and when you like, once it is within the designated weekend. You are invited to register at Justruns Events website www.justrunsevents.com and when finished, post your results to the results page. There will be spot prizes for a number of categories. To be eligible you need to submit a time for completing the 5km. Some of the Spot prizes will be photo based, such as Fancy Dress or Family Photo. To be in with a chance of winning enter a time for completing the 5km to the results page & share a photo to our Facebook page. nMore details on this will follow as we get closer to the event. EVERYONE IN THE COMMUNITY IS WELCOME TO JOIN IN!
Blessington Educate Together National School are accepting limited enrolments for our Junior Infants, older Mainstream classes and our Junior ASD class for the next academic year 2021-2022. Enrolment forms are available on our website www.betns.ie You can also contact us in the office on 045 865 281 or email office@betns.ie
Gaelscoil na Lochanna (established 15 years) is now accepting enrolments for the new school year. Our children learn to speak Irish quickly and learn everything through Irish. A Brand new school building is on the way. We are launching a New “Aistear” Infant play room in September. Parents do not need Irish to start children in school. gsnl.info, www.gaelscoilnalochanna.com All enquiries to 045 900 525, or 087 938 8651 or via website. Fáilte
St Brigid’s N.S. Manor Kilbride are accepting enrolments for the next school year: 2021 – 2022. To enrol your child, please call Charlotte in our school office 01 458 2550 or find the enrolment documents on our school website http://manorkilbridens.scoilnet.ie/blog/
Lacken National School are now accepting enrolments for Mainstream and Early Intervention Classes for September 2021. School bus runs daily from/to Blessington. The school offers afterschool care for Junior and Senior Infants until 2.30 pm. Lacken School also has a pre-school facility which is ECCE and NCS approved. Enrolment forms can be downloaded from www.lackenns.com or please contact the school office on 045 865 086 or lackenschool@eircom.net
Blessington Library is open for browsing and borrowing. Opening hours for May: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10am to 5pm Tuesday, Thursday 10am to 8.30pm We look forward to seeing you! 045 891 740 blessingtonlib@wicklowcoco.ie
Hennessey’s of Blessington – This year, 2021 Hennessey’s celebrate 100 years of business in Blessington. To commemorate this special year, we have a museum in our Hardware Store with artifacts and photographs of local people, old family photos, unusual items of interest etc. We will be open on Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm. If you would like to visit our museum, we will allocate a time slot. Please TEXT 087 674 1286 to book a time. Remember to wear a mask. Looking forward to welcoming you all.
Blessington Union of Parishes are available on the parish YouTube channel by searching for “Blessington Union” or at this link
St Mary’s Schools and Blessington Parish Lotto. Jackpot: €4900 – Congratulations to the recent weekly winner of €25 on May 27th Ellen McCabe– Numbers drawn: 9, 14, 18, 20 – If you’re not in you can’t win! Text the word Blessington to 51444 or go to www.blessingtonparish.ie Thanks to all for the support!
West Wicklow Cancer Support – If your life has been touched by cancer in any way, we are here for you, contact us on 087 434 6004 / westwicklow15@gmail.com or find us on Facebook. “Nobody is exempt from the trials of life but everyone can always find something positive in everything even in the worst of times. Keep smiling and moving, we are stronger together”
Fr Kevin’s Homilies are always available on our website: https://blessingtonparish.ie/homilies-year-b/
Support for PARISH FINANCES – Blessington, Crosschapel, Manor Kilbride, Valleymount / Lacken
Monthly / Weekly Envelopes: Contact Jean in the Parish Office if you would like to make a monthly/weekly envelope contribution or if you would like to re-join if you used to contribute.
Online: Donations / Contributions can be made via the “Donate” button on the parish website (options available for all our Churches.)
Bank Standing Order: If you would like to set up a monthly standing order through your bank, please contact Jean in the Parish Office
Parish Development Fund (PDF): Donations through the black PDF boxes in Blessington Church also go towards the running of the parish.
Shrines: The donations to shrines remains in the parish.
St Vincent de Paul Blessington, local number 087 181 1579
Tatty Tails Dog Grooming Salon. Professional dog groomer and veterinary nurse. Have your pet pampered in a purpose built salon. IPDGA member and insured. Call Avril – 087 358 7275
Happy Faces is seeking relief staff, mornings only 9.15am to 12.15pm minimum Level 5 required. Please email happyfaces@blessingtonfec.ie
Job Opportunities at VENTAC Blessington. Ventac Design, Manufacture and Supply. Acoustic Solutions for Commercial and Industrial Vehicle OEM’s. We have the following vacancies for Production Personnel at our Head Offices in Fitzwilliam House, Blessington, Co. Wicklow, W91 V972 – General Operatives – Sewing Machinists (training will be provided) Please email your CV and cover letter to hr@ventac.com
FUNBUGS Childcare Rathmore, Eadestown, Naas, Co Kildare. Email: Manager@funbugs.ie Phone: 045 862 929. We are currently inviting applicants to apply for the post of Crèche Manager at Funbugs Childcare. Are you an ambitious, driven and self-motivated leader? If so, then this post may be for you. Requirements Essential: Minimum FETAC level 6 on the national qualification’s framework. At least two years’ experience in a leadership role within early childhood. A sincere and genuine love of children. To be self-motivated and ability to motivate others. Professional manner at all times Creative and promote strong relationships between staff, children and families. Roles and responsibilities include: Ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of Crèche. Maintaining the utmost safety, welfare and needs of all children are met at all times. Continuously ensuring all records are up to date and organised for compliance checks. Managing staff, ensuring that all new staff and students receive induction training. Ensuring staff have a professional appearance and are in full uniform daily. Conducting monthly fire drills. Job Type: Full time, 40 hours per week. Salary: Negotiable. Please forward an up-to-date C.V to Sinéad Tobin at Manager@funbugs.ie
Castle Canine Cuts – Dog Grooming Service, 1-to-1 grooming for small to large breeds, open Monday to Saturday by appointment only, find us on Facebook or call Gillian 087 764 1911
Painter & Decorator, Interior & Exterior. Ph: Damien 085 826 0431
Looking forward to the long summer days? Remember Jones Power Tools for Sales and Services for all your garden machines. Talk to our friendly and knowledgeable staff. Always happy to help. Contact:- info@jonespowertools.ie Phone : – 059 64 81033
Luxury Irish Gift Boxes – Solace Sister Gifts. Our gift boxes are perfect for all occasions; Birthdays, New Mothers & Babies, Thank You Gifts, Sympathy Gifts or simply ‘Just Because’. Website: www.solacesistergifts.ie
4 Large Bedrooms With Ensuite to rent short or long term kitchen living room wash room dryer. Good parking over looking blessington lake’s. Rooms 450 per month. Contact 0892765072
Rods + Cones Opticians Blessington. Beside the GARDA station. Formerly Cullinane Opticians. We are open during COVID lockdown for all your eyecare needs. FREE Eye Exam + Glasses with PRSI + Medical Card. Large selection of Designer Frames + Sunglasses. Special Offers + Discounts on 2nd Pairs, Varifocal Experts – try them with our 30 Day Guarantee. Many Thanks to all our loyal customers. Call 045-891 056 for an appointment.
Gardening – For Hedge clipping, Beds overhauled, Fruit Tree pruning, Painting etc Phone Mark 085 133 7714
Eagle Cleaning Solutions – Chimney Cleaning, Exterior Power Washing, Window Cleaning, Gutter Cleaning and Repairs. Call for appointment: 087 247 4388. Email: info@eaglecleaningsolutions.com Find us on Facebook
German Autoworks – Service Specialist VW/Audi, Mercedes, Skoda, Seat, Opel. Call 087 286 3997 www.germanautoworks.ie
Noel Nolan – Blessington Heating & Plumbing Service www.blessingtonheatingandplumbing.ie Call Noel: 087 243 1499 or email nolannoel2@gmail.com
Clarkes Funeral Directors I.A.F.D. Funeral Home & Office, Burgage, Blessington. All areas serviced. Phone: Tony or Regina: 087 273 9048 / 087 659 6426 www.funeraldirectorsblessington.ie
HEADSTONES – McEvoy Monumental Works, Blessington. Headstones, Inscriptions, Renovations. Serving the people of Blessington for over 40 years. Call to our workshop at Millbank Blessington or phone: Mick 045 865 487 or 086 843 8832 or Gary 087 933 3487 www.mcevoymonumentalworks.com
KARE – Community Employment Vacancies in the following areas: Support Workers, Childcare Assistants, Clerical/Administration, Receptionist, Accounts/Finance, Maintenance, Caretakers/Grounds Maintenance. Various locations in Kildare/Newbridge, Naas/Clane, Kilcullen/Athy, Baltinglass/Blessington/Tinahely. For further information contact: KARE Ce Adult Supports Team veronica.roche@kare.ie elaine.noan@kare.ie KARE CE Childcare mairead.kavanagh@kare.ie Phone: 045 448 700
New Courses at the Further Education and Training Centre Blessington. We are now recruiting for courses starting in September 2021. If you are interested in up-skilling or learning something new we have the course for you! New ** Back to work course ** – 3 days a week – must be over the age of 21 and in receipt of a social welfare payment for at least 6 months. Part time courses in the following:
For more information on any of the above please contact us blessingtonfetc@kwetb.ie or 086 806 1569 or 086 850 3833. Looking forward to welcoming you all in September 2021
Newsletter Advertising Rates, For just 50c per word per week you can reach a large, local audience. Cut-off for receiving adverts is Wed 10am. You can email the copy to office@blessington.info and pay in the Parish Office, or via the Donate button on our website or by bank transfer. Call the Parish Office: 045 865 327