Newsletter Archive

Issue 1289 January 19th 2020

January 15, 2020

Sunday 19^th January 2020

►1^st Communion Preparation Mass at 10am in Church of Our Lady, Blessington

Monday 20^th January 2020

►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)

Tuesday 21^st 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 22^nd 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 26^th January 2020

►All children in 3^rd Class are invited to 10am Mass in Church of Our Lady, Blessington for a special blessing and remembrance of their 1^st Holy Communion last year.

►1^st 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 (1^st 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 24^th 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 16^th to Sun 19^th 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 23^rd 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 18^th January from 9pm to12 midnight in Donard Community Hall, Donard, Co Wicklow. Refreshments will be served. Social Dancing night will be held the 3^rd 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 13^th 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 28^th 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 21^st 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 7^th 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 23^rd 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 23^rd 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 23^rd January from 7pm to 8pm, January Nutrition Made Simple with Cliona Mc Carthy – McGreal’s on Thursday 30^th January from 7pm to 8pm

St Vincent de Paul 087 181 1579

Iaaue 1288 January 12th 2020

January 9, 2020

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 11^th & Sunday 12^th January. This blessing will take place at all Masses in all our churches.

Monday 13^th 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 14^th 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 15^th 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 (1^st 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 24^th 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 4^th to 6^th classes in all our schools as a regular fundraiser. On Friday 17^th 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 16^th to Sunday 19^th 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 8^th 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 18^th January from 9pm to12 midnight in Donard Community Hall, Donard, Co Wicklow. Refreshments will be served. Social Dancing night will be held the 3^rd 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 31^st Jan to 2^nd February & at The International Hotel Cork from 3^rd to 5^th 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 13^th 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 14^th 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 21^st 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

December 18, 2019

Sat/Sun 21^st/22^nd December 2019

► Mass times as normal in all our Churches this weekend

Monday 23^rd December 2019

►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)

Christmas Eve Tues 24^th 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 25^th 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 26^th Dec

►Mass 11am Church of Our Lady Blessington

Sunday 29^th 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 (1^st 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 23^rd: Mass for those on list for Sick

Christmas Masses: offered for the intentions of all our parishioners

Thursday 26^th 11am: Louis Walsh (A) Frank & Olwyn Langan (A) Millicent Jones (A)

Friday 27^th 11am: Hannah Smith (A) Katie Kelly, Mary Ann Sargent

Saturday 28^th Dec 6pm: Karen McEvoy (1^st A) Bill Kinsella (A)

We also Remember the following: Jim & Kitty Nolan, Vincent Bohan, Kay McGrath, Peggy & Pauline O’Brien

Monday 30^th December 11am Mass for those on the list for the Sick

Tues 31^st Dec 11am Joseph McDonald (A)

Wed 1^st January 11am: Special Intention

Thurs 2^nd Jan 9.30am: Elsie Hennessy

Friday 3^rd 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 23^rd December at 1pm and will reopen on Tuesday 7^th January at 9am The next edition of the Parish Newsletter will be dated 12^th January

Mass Intentions

Sunday 5^th 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 6^th Jan 10am: Mass for those on the list for the Sick

Holy Day Monday 6^th Jan 8pm: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions

Tuesday 7^th Jan 9.30am: Michael Tully Snr (A)

Wednesday 8^th Jan 9.30am: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions

Thursday 9^th Jan 9.30am: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions

Friday 10^th Jan 9.30am: Blessington Christmas Mass Bouquet Intentions

Friday 3^rd 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

►1^st Friday Mass in Manor Kilbride at 9am.

►1^st 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 6^th 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 7^th 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 31^st 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 8^th 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 22^nd. 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 30^th 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

Issue 1286 December 15th 2019

December 11, 2019

Blessington Parish CHRISTMAS CRIB EXHIBITION in the Coimín Centre Blessington on

December 14th 1pm to 8pm

December 15th 11am to 8pm

December 16th 10am to 4pm

Over 100 exhibits of “Cribs from around the World”

Saturday 14^th December 2019

► Sacrament of the Sick & Healing Mass at 12 noon in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. There will be tea & coffee served in the Coimín Centre after Mass.

Sunday 15^th December 2019

►First Communion & Confirmation preparation Mass at 11.15am in Valleymount

►Blessington Ecumenical Carol Service at 5pm in Church of Our Lady, Blessington.

► Valleymount & Lacken Parish Concert in St Joseph’s Church Valleymount at 7pm. Tickets €10 or 2 for €15.

Monday 16^th December 2019

►St. Mary’s Junior School Christmas Mass.

at 9:30am in Church of Our Lady. All welcome.

►Holy Hour in Crosschapel every Monday after 10am Mass (ex-Bank Holidays)

►Blessington Children’s Choir practice 2:45pm to 3.30pm in the Church.

►Neighbourhood Collection Envelopes for December now due Envelopes may be left into the Parish Office or in collection bags at Mass.

Tuesday 17^th December 2019

►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 18^th December 2019

►The Citizens Information Centre is open in Blessington Library today 10am to 12.30pm.

► The Holy Face of Jesus Prayer Group in Church of Our Lady, Blessington “Crying Room” from 11am to 11.45am. All welcome.

Mass Intentions this Week

Mary Brennan (RD) Edward (Ned) Slattery

Saturday 6pm: Bill Smith (A) Denis Brereton (A)

Sunday 10am: Cathal Gallagher (1^st A) Bridget Norton (1^st A) Laurence & Gertrude Kehoe (A)

We also Remember the following: Jimmy, Maisie & May Nolan. Christy, Kathleen, Goo & Pete Nolan. Julia Hunt (A) Sean & Elizabeth O’Donnell, Sidney & Maureen Humbley. Michael & Irene O’Donnell

Monday: Mass for those on the list for Sick

Tuesday: Mary Harney (Mths Mind) Nellie Carroll (Mths Mind) Annie & Patrick Carroll (A) Teresa & Leo Sheridan (A)

Wednesday: Jenny & Mary Robinson (A) Barry O’Donnell (Rem)

Thursday: Sean & Elizabeth O’Donnell, Sidney & Maureen Humbley. Michael & Irene O’Donnell Jimmy, Maisie & May Nolan. Christy, Kathleen, Goo & Pete Nolan.

Friday: Blessington Deceased Mass Card List

The family of the late Dicky (Richard) Reid, Crosscoolharbour, Blessington, Co. Wicklow, wish to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy & gestures of kindness shown to us during Dicky’s long illness & at the time of his sad passing on 7^th November 2018. We offer sincere thanks to family, friends, neighbours & all those who called to the house, attended the funeral mass & burial & also those who sent cards & messages of condolences. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The holy sacrifice of the Mass will be offer for your intentions.

The Winter Fair at St Brigid’s Manor Kilbride was a great success and a special gathering of all ages across our community. The organising team and the wider school community would like to sincerely thank all those who supported our event

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

West Wicklow Cancer Support: – Would like to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas & a healthy & happy New Year. There will be no monthly drop in on the last Thurs of Dec. Our next Drop will be on Thurs 23rd Jan. We are available on 087 434 6004 or by email westwicklow15@gmail.com over the holiday season. Thanks for your ongoing support.

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.

Blessington Allotments public meeting on Sat 14^th Dec at 12:30 in Blessington Library Would you be interested in allotments in Blessington? Our group is continuing to campaign for the provision of allotments in the Blessington area. – come & show your support for allotments at this meeting! For more details, contact Dónal at blessingtonallotments@gmail.com

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.

Christmas Collection for the Homeless at Method Physiotherapy. Accepting unused toys, clothes, toiletries etc. For more info call 045 857 444

♫ Sunday 29th December 2019 (+ every Last Sunday). 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!

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!!

Many thanks to all who supported ‘An Evening with Oscar Wilde’ at Russborough House recently. Great night had by all! Happy Christmas! Richard Lynch.

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.

Valleymount Parish Private Members Draw

We wish to thank you all for your generous support for the draw which has been a great success. One of the reasons for its success has been the tireless work of the committee & its collectors over the years. They have given their time & energy to running this draw & we thank them very much for this service. The Committee are now taking a well-deserved break from fund-raising & are passing on the task. Their dedication & diligence have paved the way for the next group to take up this important work for our parish. All the money from this draw has funded the roof repairs, the repairs to the back wall & some painting in the Church. As there are further works needed to keep our beautiful Church maintained & to keep the parish running, we are appealing for volunteers to take up this task & join those who will continue to make the draw a success. If you are available to help, please leave your name & contact details in the sacristy after Mass & we will call you. Again, we want to thank the outgoing committee for al l their work & ask God to bless them for their generosity. The next draw will be in February 2020 & we hope for your continuous support. Good luck to all in the final draw for 2019 this Sunday.

Valleymount Theatre Company have cancelled Scrooge. Refunds from the Office Shop, Blessington.

Blessington Christmas Bingo Bonanza Nights in the Avon on 4^th, 11^th & 18^th December at 8.15pm. Single Books inc. Flyer Sheets €10. Double Books inc Flyer Sheets €20. Jackpot €1500 in 45 calls or less. Bonus Prizes of Turkeys, Hams & lots more.

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 22^nd. For more information email poolforWestWicklow@gmail.com.

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!

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

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

Community Pool for West Wicklow would like to thank everyone who came & supported our Christmas Market at Russborough House on Saturday. It was a wonderful day & was only possible because of our amazing volunteers, stall holders, sponsors, musicians, the team at Russborough House, Clare & all at East Coast FM, Philip & Leo from Water Safety Ireland & of course Santa! We’re already looking forward to next year’s Christmas Market!

Christmas Storytime for 3 to 6-year olds on Monday 16^th December at 2pm in Blessington Library

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.

Hollywood Friendship Club will return on 8^th Jan. Wishing all our friends a Happy Christmas & New Year. Hope to see new members in 2020.

Events this Weekend in Blessington

►Cruthú West Wicklow Art Group Christmas Exhibition in Blessington Tourist Office from 11am to 6pm daily until Sun 15^th Dec. Late opening Friday to 8pm. There will be original locally produced Art, Craft, Photography on display, all available to buy. Find a perfect Christmas gift, or simply drop in to enjoy the art & be inspired. Like us on Facebook & Instagram or visit www.cruthu.ie

►Kilbride & Lakeside Music Committee Concert on Saturday 14^th December in Manor Kilbride Community Hall at 6.30pm. Featuring KILBRIDE & LAKESIDE YOUTH MUSIC With guest artist one of Ireland’s most revered musicians DONAL LUNNY along with rising star SIOBHÁN HARTE (granddaughter of singer & song collector, the late great Frank Harte) also the amazing Manor Kilbride native, KELAN WALSH baritone sax. Admission €10 Adults

►Valleymount & Lacken Parish Concert St Joseph’s National School Present ‘The Nativity’ according to The Gospel of St Luke. Concert featuring St John’s Gospel Choir, Ballinteer & Blessington Folk Group in St Joseph’s Church Valleymount on Sunday 15^th December at 7pm. Tickets €10 each or 2 for €15, available from St Joseph’s School or Valleymount Church (after Sunday Mass) and from Blessington Parish Office

Issue 1289 January 19th 2020

Iaaue 1288 January 12th 2020

Issue 1287 22nd Dec 2019

Issue 1286 December 15th 2019

Contact Us

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