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Issue No. 906

13th May 2012

 

To view Births Marriages and Deaths please click here 

Saturday 12th May 2012
Best wishes to the children from Blessington No. 1 School
who will receive their First Holy Communion today in Church of Our Lady at 11am.
Darkness into Light is the annual fundraiser of suicide and self-harm crisis centre, Pieta House.
Thousands of people will gather in darkness in 14 locations around the country and walk or run from the Darkness into the Light as dawn breaks. This event is symbolic of the work that Pieta House do – they bring people from darkness back into the light. You probably all know about the Phoenix Park event but did you know that The Kildare "Darkness into Light Walk" takes place in Naas at 4am today. It starts at Naas Racecourse and takes a 5km route around the town, finishing up back at the racecourse. Registration is available online at dil.pieta.ie for a donation of €25, or €15 for students and OAPs. You can also register at the racecourse before the walk.


Sunday 13th May 2012

Car Boot Sale today at St. Kevin’s Community Centre. Come along and bag yourself a bargain!
At the 11am Mass in Church of Our Lady today we will be joined by Margaretha Mattson & Vikarbyns Lilla Spelmanslag from Sweden who will provide beautiful music for us. If you would like to hear the group in Concert they will appear in Tramway Theatre tonight at 8pm. 38 Traditional Swedish Fiddlers who will be joined by local artists. Tickets €10 from Hennessys, The Parish Office and The Office Shop. For further information on any of the above, please contact Pat Conlon 086 075 2072, Jeanette O’Toole 086 817 9507 or John Coogan 087 1303 491


Monday 14th May 2012
The Neighbourhood Collection Envelopes
for the month of May are due in tonight to the Parish Office between 7pm and 8pm. Thank you to all contributors and collectors.
Blessington & District Forum monthly meeting takes place tonight
at 8pm in the G.P. Room of St. Marys Junior National School.



Tuesday 15th May 2012

Citizens Information Centre at Blessington Library 1pm to 4pm. ALSO Legal Advice Bureau on 1st & 3rd Tue of every month. Booking is essential for Legal Advice Bureau.
Adoration/Silent Prayer from 7.30pm to 8.30pm every Tuesday night in Church of Our Lady. All welcome.
Millennium Choir every Tues night at 7.30pm in the K.A.R.E. Centre. New members always welcome, ESPECIALLY male members.
St. Brigids National School, Manor Kilbride invite you to their OPEN EVENING tonight at 7pm. Great opportunity for new parents to visit the school.


Wednesday 16th May 2012

Citizens Information Centre at Blessington Library today from 10.00am to 12.30pm.
The Active Retirement Group meet in the Parish Centre at 2.30pm. All are welcome.
Wicklow County Council announces the official Opening and Dedication of the Ciarán Jones Bridge at Ballysmuttan by Councillor Sylvester Bourke (Cathaoirleach of W.C.C.) today at 4pm. All are welcome to attend.
The Rosary will be recited at 7.30pm in Church of Our Lady followed by Prayer, Music & Meditation, from 7.45pm to 8.30pm. All are welcome.
Dr. Andrew O’Connell will join us tonight for the third of three Talks for parents of children who have just received their Confirmation and parents of those preparing for 1st Communion. These talks have been very helpful and informative for parents and we look forward to seeing you all again tonight. The venue is changed from the Theatre to dCAF – where parents can see for themselves this wonderful facility that is available for their children as they prepare to move on to Secondary School. Time 8pm.


Thursday 17th May 2012

Blessington History Society present “Kildare & The Titanic”. Talk by James Dorney in St. Kevins Community Centre at 8pm. Non members €5.


Saturday 19th May 2012
First Communion Day for the children
from St. Mary’s Junior National School. Best wishes to all children and their families for a lovely day.


Sunday 20th May 2012
Cemetery Sunday in Burgage Cemetery.
Mass at 3pm in the Cemetery followed by blessing of the graves (weather permitting).

 

Other News

OLD FRIEND TRYING TO MAKE CONTACT: Kevin Good would like to contact his old friend Gerry Malone who moved to Blessington from Tallaght a number of years ago. Kevin is involved in organising a reunion of old comrades from the FCA 11 Cavalry Squadron and would love to hear from Gerry. Kevin’s number is 087 984 1466

The inaugural meeting of the newly formed Suicide Prevention Network takes place on Wed 23rd May at 8pm in Blessington Boxing Club (Hall opposite Vincents Shop – beside the entrance to St. Kevin’s Community Centre). All welcome – Over 18’s – Further information from Christine or Ger at wecare.westwicklow@gmail.com

New WEB DIARY feature on our website - In order to avoid local community events clashing, avail of our FREE Web Diary to promote the date of your event. Just log onto www.blessington.info and complete the Event Notification Form and we will publish the date and details of your event on our Web Diary free of charge.

“Calling all Cyclists” – Whatever your interest: road, leisure, mountain, BMX, touring , triathlon, adventure, racer etc. General Meeting in Blessington Parish Centre on Monday 21st May at 8pm to form a Cycling Club / Co-Operative Group. All are welcome. Further info from blessingtoncycle@gmail.com

Co. Wicklow Playbus Project Buala Bus will come to Blessington Further Education Centre from Mon 14th May to Fri 18th May. Then on Thurs & Fri afternoon they will be in Glending Estate. Contact 0404 32575 or cowicklowbualabus@gmail.com

Cruthu Art Group Studio – Open Weekends & Bank Holidays throughout the Summer at Russborough from 12noon to 5pm. “Blessington Through The Years” – an interpretation of local sites by members will be on display until the end of May. These paintings will be available for purchase when this exhibition is over. www.cruthu.ie

CEMETERY SUNDAY in Burgage Cemetery, Blessington will be on Sunday 20th May. Mass at 3pm followed by blessing of graves, weather permitting. Please pass the date on to family members living outside the area.

Sunday 27th May – Pilgrimage to Knock – Bus leaves Blessington Square at 8am. To book a seat please call Mary on 087 164 6082

Helena Doyle (Lena) Died 23/02/2012
Tony, husband of the late Lena, her sister Mary and her nieces and nephews would like to thank everybody who sympathised with them in their recent sad bereavement, for the many mass cards, floral tributes, and letters of sympathy to all who attended the funeral and comforted us in our time of need. Thank you to the Doctors/Nurses and staff in the Mater Hospital, Fr Tim for the beautiful funeral service, ToToy for his beautiful singing, Tony and Regina Clarke Funeral Directors and Hennessy’s. Words cannot express our grateful, thanks! Mass will be offered for all your intentions "Rest in peace Lena, "Missing you always, Forgetting you never"

Pilgrim Walk to Mass Rock on Sunday 27th May starting from Hollywood Church at 7am. Mass will be celebrated at the Mass Rock at approx 8.30am. Senior Citizens and people with special needs can drive there. Further details next week.

Blessington Further Education Centre invites you to an INFORMATION MORNING on Wed 30th May.
• Would you like to return to Education?
• Explore new possibilities?
• Interested in updating old skills or learning new ones?
Come along between 10.30am and 1.00pm. Tea, Coffee & Biscuits will be served. Call 045 891099 or 086 846 2771

New WEB DIARY feature on our website.
In order to avoid local community events clashing, avail of our FREE Web Diary to promote the date of your event. Just log onto www.blessington.info and complete the Event Notification Form and we will publish the date and details of your event on our Web Diary free of charge. This will be of great help – IF YOU USE IT – You only have to look at the front page of this Newsletter to see great fundraisers all competing with each other for support – all on the same date!!!

As part of the Bealtaine Festival (celebrating creativity in older age) Blessington Library is delighted to play host to Carnation Theatre on Wednesday 30th May at 2.15pm. The latest sing-along offering is a hilarious murder mystery entitled "Death on the Tiles". The audience will be transported to exotic Egypt under the shadows of the Pyramids. Visual and other sensual delights will tickle the imagination. They will get to feel the warm Sahara breeze on their skin, smell the aroma of spices from a far-away land, sing all the old favourites and interact with a whole host of farcical characters who find themselves in this location. Someone is a murderer, someone will be murdered. But who? Find out whodunit, whytheydunit and howtheydunit. The Audience decide! Come along and join in the fun

TIDY TOWNS – Did you know that the Tidy Towns Committee has been reformed and is ACTIVE and looking for COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT. The town and its surrounds is in desperate need of a cleanup and make over. In recent weeks 57 bags of Litter has been collected. 10 volunteers and 20 T.Y. students from Blessington Community College have tidied up St. Patricks Well, Dempseys Lane and the approaches to the town: N81, Naas Road and Kilbride Road, but there is still a lot more work to do. If you are fed up with the state of the town and surrounds and have maybe 1 hour a week to spare, or can support us in some other way, we would love to hear from you. Actions speak louder than words! Check out www.facebook.com/blessingtontidytowns for some more info or phone/text 087 634 9853 or email blessingtontidytowns@gmail.com. For this to work we need the community to get on board, young, old, male, female. BLESSINGTON TIDY TOWNS NEED YOU!

Blessington Adult Learning Centre – Childcare Courses. Did you leave school early?
Are you interested in childcare? 8 Week Course – 1 evening per week starting in May 2012 in Blessington Adult Learning Centre. For further details contact Annette or Caroline at 045 851494 or 086 846 2771

Blessington Community First Responder Unit.
The women's mini marathon is on Monday June 4th. If you are taking part and haven't picked a chartable cause please consider doing it for your local Response Unit. A number of women in the area have just started their training. If you would like to join them for fitness and fun and to raise money for the Unit please phone Jason at 087-2502490 for more info and sponsorship cards.

Co. Wicklow VEC’s Community Education Programme are running an 8 week Basic Computer Course where you will learn how to send and receive emails, how to book or buy things over the internet and how to use the internet to keep in contact with friends and family. The course will be held in Blessington Further Education Centre starting on Thursday 19th April from 2pm to 4pm. Fee €20. Preference will be given to people over 55 years. To register please contact Eleanor on 0404 32662 or email@ ebyrne@wicklowvec.ie Places are limited.

Comhaltas Cois Locha – Baile Coimin. Wicklow County Fleadh 2012 will take place in Bray on Sunday 27th May. Registration Forms for all levels of competition are available. For Application and Registration Forms call or text 086 075 2072 (Pat Conlon). This is the first time that Blessington will be represented by its own branch

Tramway Theatre presents “Margaretha Mattsson with Vikarbyns Lilla Spelmanslag” on Sunday 13th May at 8pm. 38 Traditional Swedish Fiddlers who will be joined by local artists. Tickets €10 from Hennessys, The Parish Office and The Office Shop. Our Swedish visitors will perform at the 11am Mass in Church of Our Lady, Blessington that same morning. They then travel to Limerick to accompany local musician Rachel Conlon in her Final Performance Concert at University of Limerick on 17th May. For further information on any of the above, please contact Pat Conlon 086 075 2072, Jeanette O’Toole 086 817 9507 or John Coogan 087 1303 491

8th Wicklow Blessington Scout Group are currently looking for Leaders for the Scout Section. If you are interested please call Malcolm on 087 299 3419 or email: malcolmberesford@gmail.com ALSO, the waiting list is now open if you wish to get your child into Beavers. For an Application Form please email the address above.

St. Brigids National School, Manor Kilbride are now taking enrolments for all pupils who wish to start in September 2012. Please call to the School Office for Enrolment Form or call Charlotte on 01 458 2550

Ballymore Eustace Brass & Reed Band currently recruiting new members - some experience preferable, Contact us for further info: wolfetoneband@gmail.com

FURTHER EDUCATION CENTRE, BLESSINGTON BTEI
Basic Computers and return to learning course. Are you unemployed? Would you like the opportunity to return to education, but not sure where to start. Gain Skills in Interview Techniques, CV Preparation, Basic Computer Skills. This course is free to eligible participants. This course will take place on Thursday afternoons.
PC Maintenance course Evening Course. Would you like to learn more about computers and how they work, how to repair/fix them? We have a limited number of places available on our PC Maintenance course. If you are interested in any of these courses contact Una Burke 086 85038388 / 045 851490. These courses are funded by the Back to Education Initiative and are free to eligible participants

Wicklow Rural Bus – Time change on Tuesday re Blessington to Naas to Newbridge run. The Rural Bus will now leave at 10am from outside Downshire Hotel. Leaving at 10am from Downshire Hotel. Return pick up at Whitewater Shopping Centre, Newbridge at 2pm. Pick up at Naas Bus Stop (opposite Post Office) at 2.30pm. Good news is funding has been granted for 2012. For further information call Pat Conlon 086 075 2072 or Darren (Bus Driver) 087 952 6406.

Irish Charity Warehouse Killeshin Rd. Carlow in partnership with The Holy Angels Daycare Centre Used Goods Collection. Wanted Furniture, Building Materials, Tools, Clothes, Shoes, Toys, Books or any saleable items Large or Small. Please call 059 9140622 or text 086 400 46 80 and we will collect. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.

Irish Catholic Newspaper - You can advertise your trade, business or service (painter, teacher, handyperson, accountant, job vacancy etc.) to over 90,000 Catholic customers across the country from as little as €24.60. To place an ad contact Séamus on 01 427 6488 or email seamus@irishcatholic.ie

Amen Support Group Meetings have recommenced on a Monday Evening in Navan from 8.00pm – 10.00pm. The Group Meetings are a support for men who suffer domestic abuse or are going through separation. The meetings will cover issues of Stress, Anxiety, Anger, Grief and New Beginnings. Please call 046 902 3718 for further information.

Ladies Volleyball every Wednesday night in St. Kevins Hall from 7.15pm. All welcome.

The Parish Finance Committee would like to thank all who are supporting the Parish Development Fund Boxes inside the doors of the Church of Our Lady. The money raised through these boxes stays in the parish so by your contributions, you are supporting your local parish and we are most grateful.

The Irish Cancer Society recently created a new information, support and advice centre DAFFODIL CENTRE in Tallaght at the Adelaide & Meath Hospital Dublin, Incorporating the National Children’s Hospital for cancer patients, their families and anyone concerned about cancer. We are looking for volunteers to help out in the Centre. The role of the Volunteer is integral to the running of the service. Volunteers welcome enquirers to the centre, assessing their needs and signposting to the appropriate information. Where the enquirer's needs are straightforward, whilst working in line with the volunteer guidelines, volunteers will listen and respond to the enquirer, helping the enquirer find what they are looking for e.g. locating leaflets on cancer prevention, browsing the centre's computer for information or accompanying them to a clinical area. In order to volunteer, applicants will complete an interview and four full days training. If you are looking for more information or would like to become a trained volunteer please contact: Aoife McSwiney, Patient Support Services, Irish Cancer Society, 43/45 Northumberland Rd, Dublin 4 01 231 6635 or amcswiney@irishcancer.ie

Do you have an hour or two to spare once a week? The Cleaning Teams at Church of Our Lady would be delighted with some extra help. At present there are 4 teams who are on a Rota and clean once a week for a month. (Each team is on three times in the year). All equipment is supplied. Interested? Call Ann in the Parish Office 045 865327.

Log on to www.blessington.info for all the info you need!
Lots of interesting features,
Newsletter, Church & School Information, Sacramental Preparation, History, Reflections, Fr. Kevin’s weekly Homily, World News with article from Sarah Curry in Kenya and lots more…. Latest NEW feature - Notice Board.

Co. Wicklow VEC Learning Opportunities at The Further Education Centre, Blessington - For full details of new courses starting in September or existing services re-opening after the summer break, log on to www.blessington.info - select Schools & Adult Education from the Navigation Bar, select Further Education Centre and then New Courses. You can also phone 045 891099 or 045 851490 for further details.

Wicklow County Enterprise Board Courses for Autumn/Winter 2011 Now booking! Among the regular courses we offer are Start Your Own Business, Investigating Your Business Idea, Tax and VAT, Bookkeeping, Bookkeeping using Excel, Sage Line 50, Driving Traffic to your Website, Social Media Campaign and Buying and Selling Online. New courses for Autumn/Winter 2011 are Start Your Own Business 50+ Pilot Course and Getting Wicklow Business Online. In addition to our annual Budget Breakfast Briefing Seminar we will also be running a brand new seminar ‘4 things you need to know about technology in 2012’. All courses are strictly limited in numbers so book early to avoid disappointment. For full details of all our courses and seminars see www.wicklowceb.ie/training.

Medjugorje Pilgrimage 2012 Anyone interested in going to Medjugorje in 2012 please contact 048 8224 1888.

NOTICE from Wicklow Co. Council. Please be advised that the Blessington Motor Tax office is now only open on Tuesdays and the hours of opening are 9.00am - 12.30pm & 2.00pm - 3.30pm. Driving Licence applications are no longer accepted in Blessington Motor Tax Office; please forward all applications to Driving License Section, Wicklow County Council, County Buildings, Wicklow.

Any lads aged 15 - 18 living in Blessington who wish to play Minor Football, please contact Alan on 083 3133 670 as soon as possible.

Western Gaels Hurling Club require adult members from Blessington and surrounding West Wicklow area to field in Wicklow Junior League and Championship. If interested contact Ciarán on 085 7145 288

Blessington Community First Responder Unit – Now recruiting New Responders
Blessington Community First Responder Unit is a wholly voluntary service working in conjunction with the Eastern Regional Ambulance service to provide early access to care for people in the Blessington locality who may be suffering from a cardiac or respiratory problem. To find out more about the service visit our site in the Community Groups section of the parish website www.blessington.info. We are now Recruiting new Volunteers. Volunteers will receive intensive training from the Eastern Regional Ambulance Service before they are accredited under the Community First Responder Scheme. We are particularly interested in volunteers who can provide cover during week days. If you are interested in please call Jason on 087 250 2490 for further details.

Bethany Bereavement Support Group is a voluntary Parish based support group who are trained listeners and are there to help you in times of loss. Please feel free to contact any of the members through the Parish Office 045 865327 or by calling any of the telephone numbers on the Memorial Board in the Church of Our Lady. The group are available in the Parish Centre (behind the Parish Office) on the 1st Friday of every month from 10am to 11am and the 2nd Wednesday of every month from 8pm to 9pm. Free, Caring & Confidential Support.

The Parish Office stocks cards for all occasions, rosary beads, holy water fonts, candles, statues, baby gifts, wedding candles, photo frames, children’s books, bibles, prayer cards, grave lanterns. Also, Crosschapel Celebration Book. Open Monday to Friday 9am to 1pm.

Crosscare’s Drug and Alcohol Programme (DAP) offer a free counselling service for those ffected by an addiction or loved one’s of those affected by addiction. Crosscare’s DAP also offer training and support for parents and guardians in dealing with the issues of drugs and alcohol misuse in the family. Crosscare is a resource for Parishioners of the Dublin Diocese. If you have any further queries please do not hesitate to contact us at 01 836 0911 or email gkelly@crosscare.ie or susan@crosscare.ie.

Accord Tallaght offers counselling for couples and individuals experiencing difficulties in their relationship. Experienced counsellors confidential service – donation based. Phone: 01 4590337

KARE and Sisters of Charity of Jesus & Mary/Muiriosa Foundation SHARE A BREAK PROJECT or Children & Adults. Give a little time – make a Big Difference!
We need people like you to become a Share a Break Carer. Have you the time to offer short breaks to a child or adult with an intellectual disability. Our Share a Break Carers are ordinary people who look after children and/or adults on a regular basis during the day or overnight. You don’t need a qualification just energy, commitment and the desire to support a person with a disability in your community - Training and support are provided and you will receive an allowance. Call our Social Workers for more information:
Ms Ann Callanan (CHILDREN & ADULTS) SCJMS/Muiriosa Foundation 045 876500 or 087 820 4087 and Ms Rosemary Dunning (ADULTS) KARE 045 480200

Amen Support Group Meetings have recommenced on Tuesday Evenings from 7.30pm – 9.30pm. The Group Meetings are a support for men who suffer domestic violence or are going through separation. The meetings will cover issues of Stress, Anxiety, Anger, Grief, Anxiety and New Beginnings. Please call 046 9023718 for further information.

www.blessington.info has been re-designed. Have a look and see what you think. All your favourites are there but just grouped together. We hope it makes it easier for you to find what you want. We always welcome feedback. Email: office@blessington.info www.blessington.info for all the info you need!

Please Note: Blessington Parish Pastoral Council wish to advise that anyone requesting to hold collections outside the Church can only do so with Garda permission and no distribution of leaflets/Literature can take place on Church Grounds without prior permission.


Pilgrimages to Fatima - The St Brigid Hotel Accommodation Only is €40 per night half board, airport collection arranged. Pilgrimage Package is €595, includes flights from Dublin or Cork, all taxes, transfers to Fatima, 7 nights Half Board in The St Brigid Hotel, guide for the week, 2 Fatima tours - Irish Family Run - No food or language problems - Tel: 01 4433355 - 00351249533017 - info@thestbrigidhotel.com

Anybody interested in starting a Brass Band or Orchestral Band? Maybe you can play an instrument or would like to learn. All ages welcome. Maybe you are retired with a bit of time on your hands. I believe there was a Brass Band in Blessington back in the 60’s. If you would like further information I would love to hear from you. Call Brendan Sheehy 087 9300672 anytime or email brendansheehy5@gmail.com This would be a great challenge for Blessington! Thanks for taking the time to read this notice. Looking forward to hearing from you. Brendan.

Great new feature on the Parish Website - video clip of Blessington’s historical landmarks. View by selecting the link on the Home Page which brings you to the Blessington History Society page. Our thanks to Wicklow County Council (County Wicklow Heritage Plan) for the use of this material.

Blessington FC Academy every Sunday from 11am at The Community College for boys & girls aged 5 – 9 years.

Blessington is home to Clonmacnois Press, a new Catholic books publishing company based at the Aran Centre. Their first book, entitled My First Holy Communion, is written by Mary Ascough from Lacken. It is a true work of art and story for parents and grandparents to read with their children as they prepare for First Holy Communion, ideal Christmas present, €18 in hardback at Blessington Parish Office. Please also see www.clonmacnoispress.com

Some useful telephone numbers
The Samaritans 1850 60 90 90
Childline 1800 66 66 66
Teen Line 1800 83 36 34
Aware 1890 30 33 02
Recovery 01 626 0775
Grow 087 229 1718
Console 1800 201 890
“1life” 1800 247 100
Pieta House 01 601 0000

Men & Women, separated, divorced, widowed - Are you coping? •Few people are able to cope alone with the pain of loss. •Do you find that you need more support than family and friends can provide? •Seeking help is a sign of strength and self-knowledge, not weakness. •This is a healing ministry, which helps to resolve the grief that goes with the end of a marriage or relationship. •Coping effectively with bereavement is a skill we can all learn. •A team who are themselves widowed, separated or divorced share their experiences with you. Call Beginning Experience at 01 679 0556. Email: bedublin@gmail.com

Blessington Adult Learning Centre Did you leave school early? Are you out of education a long time? Do you want to build your confidence? Could you use some help with increasing skills for work? Do you need help with: reading, writing, spelling, maths, basic computing? The Blessington Adult
Learning Centre provides the opportunity to take the first steps back into learning and education. We provide one-to-one or small group tuition and we work at the students own pace. Courses include: Basic Computers, Communications, Internet & Email, Gardening, Consumer Awareness. All are classes are funded by Co. Wicklow VEC and are free of charge. Call Annette or Caroline 045 851494 or 086 846 2771. Email: blessington@wicklowlearners.ie

Don’t forget the Parish Office for Cards for all occasions, Baby Gifts, Baptism Candles, Wedding Candles, Children’s Bible Stories, Books, CD’s, Notelets, Angel Pins, Novenas, Rosary Beads, Mass Cards for: Special Intentions, Get Well, Birthday, Deceased, Anniversary. Open: Monday to Friday 9.00am - 1.00pm.

Bethany Bereavement Support Group is a voluntary Parish based support group who are trained listeners and are there to help you in times of loss. Please feel free to contact any of the members through the Parish Office 045 865327 or by calling any of the telephone numbers on the Memorial Board in the Church of Our Lady. The group are available in the Parish Centre (behind the Parish Office) on the 1st Friday of every month from 10am to 11am and the 2nd Wednesday of every month from 8pm to 9pm. Free, Caring & Confidential Support.

www.blessington.info for all the info you need!
Have a look around our website - lots of interesting features:
Recent Events Page lots of new photographs - have a look, you might even be there yourself!
Youth Section - photographs of the recent “Stay Awake” fundraiser for Marie Keating Foundation.
Blessington Overseas - read the latest news from Sr. Rebecca in Pakistan.
Community Groups Page - Recent Updates from local Groups.
ALSO Newsletter & Adverts, Fr. Kevin’s Homily each week, Rota (Readers, Eucharist Ministers, Collectors) for month of August for Church of Our Lady and much, much, more ........ Check it out for yourself!

Citizen CPR. Every year in Ireland almost 5000 people die from sudden cardiac arrest. From the moment of collapse, the chance of survival decreases by 7-10% per minute when CPR is not being performed. Hesitation costs lives. Citizen CPR is a nationwide campaign to promote public awareness of what to do should you witness the sudden collapse of an adult. For more information visit www.citizencpr.ie.

The Parish Office is open Monday to Friday 9am to 1pm inside the Main Gates of St. Mary’s Junior National School

Ladies Volleyball every Wednesday night in St. Kevins Hall at 7.15pm. Details call Aine 087 2935374

Is your group looking for volunteers? We know volunteering is a great way to meet new people, acquire new skills, and give something back to the community. If you are a group looking for volunteers, or someone who wants to volunteer why not contact the County Wicklow Volunteer Centre on info@volunteerwicklow.ie or 0404 25430

COUNTY WICKLOW ADULT GUIDANCE SERVICE helps adults make choices around Education, Training and Career Options. Contact Blessington Further Education Centre, Co Wicklow VEC. FREE, FRIENDLY & CONFIDENTIAL Tel 086 806 1569 or e-mail irene@wags.ie

The Mobile Recycling Collection in Blessington has been reduced to one collection a month which will be on the 1st Saturday of every month.

Blessington Community First Responder Unit. Responders attending to callouts have been having trouble finding houses. This is due to a lack of street signage within the estate or no house numbers displayed. If this is the case please send someone onto the road to flag down the responder when they arrive, which is usually takes about five minutes. This can save vital time, which otherwise can be lost. The unit is now fast approaching 150 callouts in Blessington and the surrounding area. Remember we are a wholly voluntary service made up of volunteers from the Blessington Community. To find out more about our service please visit our page in the Community Groups section on www.blessington.info

Useful Contact Numbers
AWARE LoCall HELPLINE 1890 303 302
RECOVERY 01 626 0775
THE SAMARITANS 1850 60 90 90
Do you have a few hours to spare and would like to work with young people? dCaf (Youth Café) runs every Monday, Wednesday & Friday evenings from 7.30pm to 9.30pm in St. Josephs Hall and we would really appreciate a few new volunteers. Full training provided. Call 086 8532 811 for further details.

VINCENTs Shop, Blessington - Supporting the work of St. Vincent de Paul - New Extended Opening Hours we are now open from 10.00am to 5.30pm each day (Monday to Saturday) BUT WE NEED YOUR HELP! Are you available to volunteer between 3.30pm and 5.30pm? Duties to include: Customer Service, Sorting, Hanging and Tagging of Clothes. If you can help, please ask in shop or call Jane on 01 819 8413.

Bethany Bereavement Support Group is a voluntary Parish based support group who are trained listeners and are there to help you in times of loss. Please feel free to contact any of the members through the Parish Office or by calling any of the telephone numbers on the Memorial Board in the Church of Our Lady.

Valleymount Parent & Toddler Group Open every Mon 10.00am - 12.00noon in Valleymount Community Centre.

Blessington GAA Academy every Saturday morning from 9.30am to 10.30am at the GAA grounds for 4 to 8 year olds.

Amen: Support Service for male victims of domestic abuse. Confidential helpline available on 046 9023718.

Do you need someone to talk to? Senior Help Line is a confidential listening service for older people by older people for the price of a local call anywhere in Ireland, LoCall 1850 440 444. Senior Help Line is open every day from 10 am to 4 pm and 7 pm to 10 pm, 365 days a year. Older people call us for many reasons. They may feel lonely, isolated or have family or health worries. A small proportion may fear, or be experiencing elder abuse, or are depressed and feel they dont have the strength to carry on. Senior Help Lines trained older volunteers offer a friendly, listening and non-judgmental ear to all callers. So don't be alone with your problem. Lifting the phone lessens the loneliness. We will be waiting for your call. LoCall 1850 440 444.

The Bethany Bereavement Support Group is a voluntary parish based ministry which aims to help the bereaved and grieving. The name Bethany recalls the visit of Jesus to Mary and Martha on the death of their brother Lazarus. Although grieving is a natural process which can be helped by the sympathy and understanding of friends, sometimes one may need support to work through it in a positive way. Friends don’t always know how to help; they may be embarrassed by one’s grief; they may even avoid meeting one in the mistaken belief that a meeting may increase distress. It is quite normal to feel anger, guilt, fear and depression as well as the awful pain of loss. These feelings need to be expressed rather than repressed, to be talked out, cried out and put in some sort of perspective. It helps the healing process to talk with a trained listener and confront the very strong feelings associated with grief. Many Bethany members have themselves been bereaved. They are trained to listen with understanding. They accept those suffering loss as they are, and support them through the grieving process. Members of the Parish Bethany Group are available in the Parish Centre (rear of Parish Office) on the 1st Friday of each month from 10.00am to 11.00am and on the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 8.00pm to 9.00pm. This is a free, confidential service.

Useful Contact Numbers
AWARE LoCall HELPLINE 1890 303 302
RECOVERY 01 626 0775
THE SAMARITANS 1850 60 90 90
 

Full range of local history books for sale in the Tourist Office (rear of the Credit Union). Open Monday - Friday 9.30am to 5.30pm. 

Blessington Adult Learning Centre Courses & Classes - The Blessington Adult Learning Centre provides the opportunity to take the first steps back into learning and education. All our classes are fully funded by Co. Wicklow VEC. We provide one-to-one or small group tuition and we work at the student’s own pace. We provide help with reading, writing, spelling, maths and basic computing. As well as Blessington, we also work with groups in Hollywood, Donard & Dunlavin. For further details Contact Annette or Caroline on 045 891512 or 086 846 2771. Email: blessington@wicklowlearners.ie

The Knights of St. Columbanus - Order of Catholic Lay Men are looking for members to carry out Catholic Work in the Dublin Area. Join and look to the future with confidence. Telephone: John O Brien 086 040 5165

Recovery International - non-profit, self help organisation that has offered a valuable community service since 1937. If you are struggling with Stress & Tension, Anxiety or Fatigue, Sleep Problems or Worry, Anger or Fears, Other emotional fears. Recovery can help you to help yourself! Call 01 626 0775 or email: info@recovery-inc-ireland.ie
 

Blessington AFC website: www.blessingtonfc.com check it out today!

Blessington Education Centre - Full Time Courses at the Centre - V.T.O.S. (Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme) is a full time programme available to Adults who wish to return to education and is free of charge to interested Adults who are over 21 years of age and are receiving a Social Welfare Payment. Candidates will continue to receive their Social Welfare Payment from Co. Wicklow V.E.C. while attending a V.T.O.S. course. If applicants have been receiving Social Welfare Payments for one year immediately prior to joining V.T.O.S. they will receive an extra Training Allowance of €31.80 per week. V.T.O.S. Meal & Travel Allowances and some funding towards Childcare. ENROLLING NOW. Tel: 045 891099 - Email: blessingtoncec@eircom.net

Youthreach West Wicklow are looking for new trainees to join our Centre. We offer a wide range of modules including: Sporting Activities - Computers & Information Technology - Art, Design & Crafts and other FETAC modules. Our additional support services include counselling, advocacy, career planning, work experience & guidance. Youthreach provide you with full time education and training, work experience, the opportunity to gain qualifications and an allowance for training/meal/travel. If you are interested in discovering your strengths, building up your self confidence and help yourself to create a brighter future and are aged between 15 and 21 years and have left school, call Lorraine on 086 815 9593 between 9am & 4pm

Blessington Valley Athletics Club train every Monday and Thursday evening from 7.00pm to 8.00pm at Blessington Community College, Naas Road. Details from 087 9140980

Valleymount Ladies GAA always welcome new members. Come along for FUN, FITNESS or FOOTBALL! Beginners or advanced players - all are welcome. If interested please contact Gillian 087 958 6054

www.blessington.info for all the info you need!

If you are a teenager and your Mum or Dad has a drinking problem, you can see what it is doing to them, but can you see what it is doing to you? For information and help, contact ALATEEN. For details of your local meeting, call Jacinta 087 292 9315 or 057 866 3013

The Rota for Church of Our Lady Eucharist Ministers, Readers & Collectors for each month is published in the Newsletter on the last weekend of every month and also on the Parish Website for the entire month. If you miss the Newsletter, you can always check on the Website - Homepage - Drop down arrow on Churches - select Blessington - select the Rota you wish to check.

Anyone interested in playing Camogie? Senior & Under Age Training in Donard/The Glen. Full details from Brian McDonald 086 852 6192 

Baptisms in Church of Our Lady, Blessington take place on the 1st Sunday of every month at 12.00noon and the 2nd Saturday of every month at 3.00pm. All bookings must be made through the Parish Office 045 865327. The Parish Baptism Team, Fiona & Karen, host a Baptism Preparation Meeting for parents each month in the Meeting Room of Church of Our Lady. All parents who wish to have a baby baptised are requested to attend the Preparation Meeting.  

Study Theology from Home - You can now study theology, either for its own sake or for a degree, from the comfort of your home! The Dominicans in Tallaght are offering a full programme through distance learning - following the method of Open University - consisting of fifteen week modules and supported by a network of centres around the country. For further information, contact The Priory Institute, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24 or call 01 404 8127 or 01 404 8124. email: enquiries@prioryinstitute.com

Adult Educational Guidance Service located at Blessington Community Education Centre, Blessington. Provides Professional Guidance Counselling, Information and Support to Adults who wish to return to education. The Guidance Service is free and confidential, giving you the time and space to look at the educational options that suits you. Come and see us at Blessington Community Education Centre (045 891099) or phone Irene 045 857758

Give your child the priceless gift of music. Button Accordion & Concertina Classes in Hollywood Parish Hall every Saturday morning from 11.00am. Instruments supplied on loan. Details 087 653 4693

Please Note: Bookings for St. Josephs Hall are to be made at Blessington Parish Office. Monday to Friday 9.00am to 12.30pm. Tel: 045 865327

Are you unemployed due to illness, injury or disability? Interested in learning computers from home and receive a FAS Training Allowance? For further details please contact Ailis on 045 437 571

Blessington GAA LOTTO Tickets are available from most businesses in the town. If you would like to sign up to have tickets in every draw, we have Standing Order Forms that you can sign for the amount to be debited on a monthly basis. For information regarding the Standing Order Form, please call Helen 087 225 8794 - Breda 087 225 3892 - Chris 086 865 0518

Note for new Residents: There is a Crying Room facility in Church of Our Lady, Blessington for families with babies and young children.

Blessington Voluntary Cardiac Response Unit regrets that we cannot be contacted directly in an emergency. Please call 999/112 with a cardiac or breathing related incident and the ambulance service will ask us to respond to your emergency call as because we are local we can usually reach you within a few minutes. If you suspect that someone is in respiratory or cardiac distress do not delay as minutes do count in an emergency situation. Remember call 999/112 and they will contact us.

Anyone interested in the Priesthood or Religious Life, please contact Fr. Eamonn Bourke, Archbishops House, Drumcondra, Dublin 9. Tel: 01 837 3732 Ext 253 or email: vocations@dublindiocese.ie

The Parish Office stocks a range of Cards for all occasions. Individual Mass Cards and Shared Mass Cards. Also Rosary Beads, Prayer Books, Picture Frames, Gift Items. New Range of Shared Mass Cards, Blank Cards & Postcards with local scenes. (photographs by Fr. Kevin Lyon)

Rosary Beads Repaired - missing beads replaced. Send to Rosary Beads Repairs, Crosschapel, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. (Parishioners free of charge) all others €3 fee.

Glendalough Hermitage - Five modern self-catering Cillins situated in a secluded area. St. Kevins church is 50 metres away. Direction or prayer guidance available on request. Prayer Room and small Library. Plenty of opportunities for walking. For further information and booking contact Fr. Kevin Doran 0404 45777 or email: glendalough2000@eircom.net Website: www.hermitage.dublindiocese.ie

Unexpected Pregnancy is hard to face. For help or support contact CURA. All services are free and confidential. Telephone 01 6710598. Phone for appointment or Drop-In Service at 30 South Anne Street, Dublin 2. LoCall 1850 622 626 www.cura.ie
 
Alcoholism is a devastating illness, with huge impact on everyone close to the sufferer, especially partners and children. Thankfully, there is help!! Al-Anon is a worldwide sister fellowship of AA, dedicated to anyone affected by another persons drinking. It provides support and understanding to relatives and friends who feel confused and helpless by the drinking of a person close to them. It is a confidential, non profit organization, and all you need to do to become a member is to go to a meeting. Alcoholism affects more than just the drinker; the whole family suffers. Help is available in Al-Anon family groups right here in our community. There are local meetings in Naas - Monday, Newbridge - Wednesday, Celbridge - Wednesday, Kildare - Friday, Athy - Thursday and Rathcoole - Sunday. Al-Anon, 5 Capel Street, Dublin 1 for full details of meetings or call 01 873 2699 between 10.00am and 2.00pm.

Important Message from Blessington Voluntary Cardiac Response Unit - At present our response time to a 999 call is approx 5 minutes but we are having great difficulty in some areas where estates or streets have no name signs or houses have no numbers. When you ring 999 the Ambulance Service ask us to respond to your emergency call. The person on duty will reach your area in a matter of minutes so please watch out for us. We will be driving our own cars and will be wearing a highly visible Ambulance Jacket. If someone could be at your door or gate waiting for us, it would save considerable time when time really counts. Please help us to help you!  

For Home Baking, Jams, Savouries, Free Range Eggs & Crafts. Also Plants & Vegetables in Season, the place to go is Blessington Country Market every Saturday in St. Kevins Community Centre from 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Orders taken, New Producers very welcome. See you next Saturday ! 

Gluten-Free Hosts are now available in Church of Our Lady, Blessington. If you wish to receive Holy Communion in this way, please go to The Sacristy before Mass and tell the Priest, then go to the Priest for Holy Communion in the usual way.

Some useful Contact Numbers
THE SAMARITANS 1850 60 90 90
CHILDLINE 1800 666 666
AWARE 1890 30 33 02 (Support for people with Depression)
RECOVERY 01 626 0775 (Support for people recovering from Depression)
GROW 087 229 1718 (Support for people recovering from Depression)
BODYWHYS 1890 200 444 (Support for people with Anorexia & Bullimia)
CONSOLE 1800 201 890 (Support for those bereaved by Suicide)
RAPE CRISIS CENTRE 1800 77 88 88 (Support for those affected by Sexual Abuse, Sexual Violence/Rape)
AL-ATEEN 01 8732699 (Support for teens affected by Alcohol Abuse)

Baptisms in Church of Our Lady, Blessington are on the 1st Sunday of every month at 12.00noon and the 2nd Saturday of every month at 3.00pm. Booking through Parish Office 045 865327

The 9.30am Mass in Church of Our Lady, Blessington every Monday morning is offered for the sick and those in hospital. A Prayer Card is available free of charge at the Parish Office. 

Thinking of Advertising in the Parish Newsletter? Page 2 - Small Adverts 50c per word If you wish to have your advert included on the Parish Website Commercial Section, €2 extra for the small ad.

Recovery - Support Group for people recovering from Depression - Every Monday night in Social Services Centre 2/3 Main Street, Tallaght (beside Molloys Pub, opposite The Priory) or Every Tuesday night at 8.00pm in Dominican College, Newbridge. For further details call 01 6260775


Births - Deaths - Marriages

Congratulations to the parents of the following children who were baptised in Church of Our Lady last month and welcome into the Christian community:

Kevin Richard Carroll
Ava Tracy Corrigan
Daragh David Broderick
Tara Brigid Loonan
Brian James Carney
Amber Martha Knowles
Aaron James McDonald
Emily Josephine Gilmore
Keelan Ben Hurley


We ask Gods blessing on them and their families in the years ahead.


We extend our sympathy to the families of those recently deceased who were prayed for in Church of Our Lady last month

Pete Nolan
Christina O'Byrne
Borris Barasing
Noel Fortune
Rita McCarthy
Sean Field
Joe Germaine
Noel Healy
Peggy O'Sullivan
Mindaugas Urbonas
Denise Clarke
Bridie Swan
Norman Shirran
Noel Cullen
Malachy Slevin
Michael Holaway

 



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