GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw on November 27th were 2, 12, 16 and 20. There was no winner of the jackpot but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Breda O Donnell, Emma O Leary and Caoimhe Kelly. The next draw will take place on December 11th and there will be a jackpot of €8,300 on offer and there will also be six lucky dip winners of €50. Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5 and are available from all committee members or will be on sale at Centra, Kilmeaden on Saturday December 10th. Choose those four numbers carefully and you could be celebrating Christmas early.

Bridge News

Ballyduff/ Portlaw bridge club played their latest game on Monday November 28th and the results were as follows:
1st: Nano Fitzgerald and Sean Hennessy
2nd: Geraldine McMahon and Joan Hartrey
3rd: William Tobin and Deirdre Phelan
4th: Fr.M O Byrne and Mary Prendergast.
The bridge club have now moved venue and will play their future games in Ballyduff Community Centre on Monday nights at 7.30pm. No partner is required. If you would like any further information, please contact Elizabeth on 087 2067920.

Ballyduff GAA

Ballyduff Lower GAA club will hold their AGM on Friday December 9th at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre.
All are welcome to come along to the meeting and get involved with the club. Please note that only fully paid-up members are entitled to vote.
The ladies’ group have now moved from Friday to Wednesday nights so if you would like to take up some exercise while having a few laughs why not pop along to the ball alley where the ladies meet under lights from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. All are welcome

Rally Success

At the recent World Rally Championships there was a new category added called the WRC2 Masters Cup for over 50’s. Our own rally superstar MJ Morrissey finished 2nd overall in the co drivers. They travelled 5 rounds in Monte Carlo, Sweden, Ypres, Catalunya and Japan. Congratulations MJ on your wonderful achievement.

Junior Cert Results

Congratulations to all the young men and women who recently received their Junior Cert results this week. Although they had to wait a long time to get their results, their wait is now over and I’m sure they all enjoyed their celebrations

Waterford Suir Valley Railway

There has been a lot of activity around Waterford Suir Valley Railway lately as preparations have been underway for Santa’s arrival. The elves have been busy putting up lights and decorations. Santa is now busy meeting all the boys and girls and finding out what they would like for Christmas. I might pop down and have a little chat with him myself. Don’t forget to book a ticket to see Santa and check if you are on that good list.

Church News

Fr. O Byrne has asked me to say a big thank you to all who attended the weekly masses during November for our loved ones who have returned home to God. On Wednesday November 30th the mass was offered for all those who died during the year, and it was a beautiful mass enhanced by music and song from our local parish choir. A big thank you to all who helped at these masses.
If you would like to book an anniversary mass for a loved one during the months of January or February please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392.

Bridge News

The Ballyduff/ Portlaw Bridge club played their latest game on Monday November 21st and the results were as follows
1st Nano Fitzgerald and Geraldine McMahon
2nd Iris Graham and Elizabeth Mooney
3rd Ann-Marie Brown and Peggy Barron

Player of the Year

At the recent end of season Waterford BSC and Waterford FC Academy awards, local man AJ Bowman from Carriganure picked up the award for U17 Player of the Year Award. Congratulations to AJ who puts such commitment and dedication into his sport and his training. AJ has a bright future ahead and is certainly a name to watch out for.

Mass for the Holy Souls

On Wednesday November 30th at 7pm the final of the special November masses will take place. This mass will be celebrated especially for all those who have died within the past 12 months. The names of all those who died within the parish will automatically be added to the list but we would also like to include the names of your loved ones who died outside the parish in the past year. If you would like to add the name of a family member or friend, please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392 or drop the name into Ann in the sacristy.
During the mass your loved one will be represented by a candle and at the end of the mass the family will bring the candle home and light it from time to time when praying for their loved ones.

Ballyduff GAA

Ballyduff Lower GAA club will hold their AGM on Friday December 9th at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre.
All are welcome to come along to the meeting and get involved with the club. Please note that only fully paid-up members are entitled to take part in any vote.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 2, 7, 11 and 13. There was no winner of the jackpot but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Margaret Millea, Conor Aulsberry and Eabha Power. The next lotto draw will take place on Sunday November 27th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €8,150 on offer. Fancy paying off some bills, taking a little break away or having a Christmas shopping spree. Tickets are just €2 each or three for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale at Centra in Kilmeaden on Saturday November 26th. Choose 4 lucky numbers and hopefully you will be celebrating.

Bridge News

The Ballyduff/ Portlaw Bridge Club meet every Monday night in Ballyduff N.S and the results were as follows:

(1) Sean Hennessy and Elizabeth Mooney
(2) Mary Cummins and Iris Graham
(3) Geraldine McMahon and Nano Fitzgerald
Congratulations to all the winners.

Church News

Our weekly Wednesday night masses are continuing during the month of November. These masses are offered especially for all our loved ones who have returned home to God. The final mass on November 30th will be offered for all those who have died during the past 12 months. This is a special candle mass where a member of each person’s family will be presented with a candle in their honour. The family will bring this home this candle and light it from time to time as they remember their loved ones. The names of those who died from the parish will automatically be added to the list, but you are also invited to include the names of family and friends who have died over the past year in other areas. If you would like to include a name, please contact Linda Spillane or drop the details into Ann in the sacristy.
The falling leaves of Autumn remind of our Holy Souls whose earthly life is now over but whose new lives now continue in God’s kingdom.

Church Choir

Our local church choir are a wonderful addition to our weekend masses. Their beautiful choice of hymns really enhances our Sunday celebrations. If you would like to become a member of the choir, then please come along to their rehearsals on Monday nights at 7.45pm to 9pm. You can also have a chat with them on Sunday after mass.

Beat The Train

Congratulations to all who took part in the “Beat the Train” event in aid of the Waterford/ Kilkenny Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland. A fantastic crowd turned out to support this very worthy cause. There was a wonderful atmosphere in the air as they all set off and congratulations to Noel Murphy and Louise Morgan who were the first man and woman to beat the train on the 10-mile race. Congratulations to all who took part in the race and a big well done to all the supporters who travelled on the train and cheered them all on.

Recent Death

We were all very saddened to hear of the recent death of Kathleen Kinsella (nee White) of Cullinagh. Kathleen was a lady of great faith and strong family values who loved spending time with those nearest and dearest to her. She will be deeply missed by her loving husband Tony, her sons Michael, Tommy and John, daughters in law Dolores and Michelle, her sister Nell, her grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family, friends and neighbours. Kathleen’s funeral mass took place in St. Patrick’s church, Portlaw with burial in the adjoining graveyard. We pray that her sweet, gentle soul now rests in the peace and love of Christ

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club.

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club brought their year of camogie to a fantastic close as they were one of eight camogie clubs in the country to be awarded “The Camogie Association Club Development Award” on November 12th. Sarah Roche accepted the award on behalf of the club at Sports Ireland Head Quarters in Abbottstown, Dublin where the club’s U8’s were participating in the Camogie Association Development blitz that day.
What a fantastic achievement by a relatively small club whose camogie section was revitalised in recent times. It is a testament to all the hard work and determination which has been put in by all the players, mentors, committee and parents over the past year and a half when the group was re-established.  With such commitment and pride within the camogie club, the future certainly looks promising.
The U8 camogie team had a fantastic day representing their club and county at Sports Ireland Headquarters in Abbottstown, Dublin on November 12th last. They were participating in The Camogie Association Development Awards” U8 blitz. This was a brilliant opportunity for the girls to play in the fantastic facilities at Sports Ireland HQ. They all enjoyed a wonderful day, and each received a commemorative medal to mark the occasion. Well done to all the girls and the coaches who attended. Memories like that last a lifetime.

Dr. Martin Day Centre

All at the Dr. Martin Day Centre have asked me to let you know that they will hold their AGM on Tuesday November 22nd at 9.45am in The Dr. Martin Day Centre, Portlaw. All members of the community are welcome to attend the meeting and refreshments will be served.

Community Alert

It was so nice to see such a great crowd at the latest community alert. Fiona Laffan gave a very interesting talk about social prescribing and the benefits it has on people living in rural areas. Our Mayor John O Leary gave the meeting an update on the plans for the North Quays in Waterford while our local Gardai spoke to the meeting about the importance of locking up our homes and keeping our property safe and secure. They also praised the work of the community alert group and especially the text alert scheme and urged people to report any suspicious individuals or vehicles when they see them. The sooner things are reported, then the sooner the word can be spread and everyone can be made aware and therefore keep a lookout.

November Masses

It was lovely to see such a large crowd attend the first of our special Wednesday night masses for the dead.  During the month of November, we remember our deceased relatives and friends in a special way. Mass will be offered each Wednesday night at 7.30pm in November so will continue on Wednesday 16th and 23rd.  The last mass on Wednesday 30th is offered especially for all those who died during the past year. A list of names is compiled from the parish book, but we also like to include your family and friends from outside the parish who died during the past year. If you would like to add a name to this list, please contact Linda Spillane or drop the details into Ann in the sacristy.

Engagement News

Congratulations to local Ballyduff man Stephen O Leary who recently popped the question to his beautiful girlfriend Donna Flynn. We wish the happy couple every best wish for their future lives together and we hope that they enjoy the excitement of all the preparations.

Birthday Girls

Three very popular young ladies in our communities celebrated their birthdays recently. Stephanie Hogan (nee Power) from Fan Glas and formerly of Ballyduff Village celebrated her 40th birthday surrounded by her lovely family and friends. We hope that Stephanie enjoyed the wonderful day she truly deserved.
Another young lady Kay Whelan from Knockaderry celebrated her 95th birthday recently. We are very proud to have Kay as the eldest parishioner in our parish of Ballyduff. We hope that Kay enjoyed her special day with family, and we wish her many more happy birthdays to come.
Tina Simpson in Ballyduff West was also celebrating her birthday this week. Turning the tender age of 60, I have no doubt that her husband Philip, daughters Lisa and Kelley and grandsons Bradley and Callum ensured that Tina had a wonderful day with lots of nice treats. We wish Tina many more happy birthdays

Ballyduff LGFA

The Ballyduff Lower LGFA Group will host their AGM on Tuesday November 15th from 8pm to 9pm in the dressing room at Tom Cheasty Park. All members are welcome to come along.

Community Alert

Our local Community Alert group will hold their next meeting on Wednesday November 16th at 8pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. If you have forgotten your €5 for the text alert scheme, then you can pay on the night. All are welcome to attend the meeting as it is important that we all stand united together to help keep our community safe. Please spread the word in your part of the community

Recent Deaths

We extend our deepest sympathies to the Walsh family on their recent loss. The whole community was very saddened to hear of the untimely death of Dick Walsh of Adamstown. Fondly known as “Horse”, Dick was a kindhearted, good humoured, hardworking character. The huge crowd who attended his removal and burial was a testament to the high esteem in which he was held. It was wonderful to hear so many colourful stories about Dick as people chatted in the graveyard after the funeral. Dick loved nothing more than telling a good yarn and listening to some of his favourite songs on John O Shea’s show on WLR. John played regular requests for Dick and his son Tom knowing that they would be listening in waiting to tap and sing along.
Dick will be sadly missed by his wife Siobhan, daughter Sarah, son Tom, granddaughter Riona, son-in-law Brian, sisters Mary and Mairead, extended family and his many friends. We pray that he is now at peace and that his gentle soul is at rest. Following many years of travelling all over the world in his lorry may his journey back to the Lord be filled with a few good yarns and many a good tune. Travel safe Dick we will never forget you.
We also extend our sympathy to the Whelan family on the recent death of Mary Whelan. Mary lived most of her life in the heart of Ballyduff Village and loved chatting and meeting with neighbours. She was a woman whose faith was of upmost importance and attended daily mass when in her full health. Family was very important to her, and she loved family gatherings. Mary’s funeral mass and burial took place in her beloved St. Nicholas Church, and we pray that she is now reunited with her husband Richard and will now enjoy the fullness of God’s love and peace.
Mary will be sadly missed by her sons Dick, Tom, Anthony and Dod, daughters-in-law Bridget, Maggie and Anne, her grandchildren, great grandchildren, her sisters Theresa and Lena. May she rest in the peace of the Lord and we hope her family will draw comfort from their memories.

Bridge News

The Ballyduff/Portlaw Bridge Club played their latest game on Monday November 7th and the results were as follows:
(1st) Kathleen Collins and Patsy Roche
(2nd) Mary Kennedy and Ann Kennedy
(3rd) Mary Prendergast and John Fitzpatrick
The bridge club meet every Monday evening in Ballyduff N.S and if you would like to join in, please contact Liz Mooney on 087 2067920.

New Business

We send our warmest congratulations and good wishes to local lady Niamh Kennedy of Stonehouse who has branched out and will soon open her own hair salon in Waterford City. Niamh has been excelling in the world of hairdressing for many years, winning many awards. The salon is located in Ozanam Street and I’m sure Niamh will welcome former clients as well as new ones. It’s a very exciting time for Niamh who is also recently engaged to Eamonn Murphy and so life is certainly very exciting and busy at the moment. We wish Niamh the very best of luck in her new venture and hope that she and  Eamonn enjoy all the wedding preparations.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest GAA lotto draw were 7, 14, 15 and 18 and there was no winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were John O Donnell, Maurice Harris and John Ryan. The next draw will take place on November 13th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €8,000 up for grabs. Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale outside Centra Kilmeaden on Saturday November 12th. Choose four lucky numbers and you could be heading for a little holiday, a shopping spree, paying some bills or enjoying some nice treats.

Golden Couple

Congratulations and warm wishes to Knockaderry couple Rob and Mai Power who recently celebrated 50 years of wedded bliss. I’m sure that their son and daughter Geraldine and David and the couple’s beloved grandchildren, made sure that the couple enjoyed their special day. I hope that Rob and Mai who are wonderful social dancers, enjoyed a twirl or two around the floor. We wish them many more years of happiness together in their beautiful home.

Silver Celebrations

I don’t usually like to write about myself in these notes, but Brian and I recently celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary and we would like to say a big thank you to all who sent us good wishes, cards and texts. We really appreciate your kind words, and the good news is that Brian has decided to stick with me for another few years.

Popped the Question

Local Kilmagemogue man Shane Fitzgerald may have welcomed royalty to his family farm this year but in recent weeks he had a much bigger engagement on his mind. While on holiday in South Africa, Shane surprised the love of his life Kate Curran as he popped the question on Table Mountain, a prominent landmark overlooking the city of Cape Town. We send warm congratulations to Shane and Kate on their engagement and we wish them both every happiness in their future lives together.

November Masses

I cannot believe that we are already talking about our special masses for the dead in November. During the month of November, we remember our deceased relatives and friends in a special way. A mass is offered each Wednesday night at 7.30pm in November for our dead. These masses will go ahead on Wednesday 9th,16th and 23rd.  The last mass on Wednesday 30th is offered especially for all those who died during the past year. A list of names is compiled from the parish book, but we also like to include your family and friends from outside the parish who died during the past year. If you would like to add a name to this list, please contact Linda Spillane or drop the details into Ann in the sacristy.

Beat The Train

The “Beat the Train” in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland is a very popular event each year. It’s all systems go this year for November 12th. As your family and friends run along the Greenway trying to beat the train home to the station, you can now book your ticket for the train and sit back and relax while cheering them all on. You can contact the station on 051 384058 and book your seat to watch and cheer for all the participants as they run along the beautiful Greenway. All the proceeds from the train will go to the Waterford and South Kilkenny Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland. This is a wonderful charity who are always very active in fundraising and supporting their members. Please come along and support the participants and the charity on the day.

Medal Success

Congratulations to local lady Alex Sheehan from Ballyduff Village who returned from the World Kickboxing Championship with a World Silver medal. Alex is a member of the Pat Rockett Karate and Kickboxing Academy. What a wonderful achievement for Alex and I’m sure that she is thrilled that all her training and dedication has paid off. We wish her every best wish for the future and that she enjoys celebrating her great success.

Recent Death

We extend our deepest sympathies to Nano Fitzgerald, Ross on the recent death of her beloved sister. Sr. Catherine Gough, formerly of Faithlegg was a member of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, Madonna House, Ferrybank. Sr. Catherine’s funeral mass took place in The Sacred Heart Church in Ferrybank, and she was laid to rest in the convent cemetery. She will be sadly missed by her twin sister Sr. Mary and her sister Nano, her brother Philip, her sister-in-law Marian, nieces, nephews, grand nephews and the Sacred Heart of Mary sisters especially in Madonna House and the Zambezi region.
We pray that Sr. Catherine now rests in the peace of the Lord where he will reward her for her kindly deeds. May she rest in peace.

Bridge News

The Ballyduff/ Portlaw Bridge club played their latest game on Monday October 24th and the results were as follows:
Joint First: William and Ann Tobin,  and John Fitzpatrick and Breda Murphy (3) Mary Kennedy and Ann-Marie Brown
The club meet every Monday night in Ballyduff N.S. If you would like to join the bridge club or find out more, please contact Liz Mooney on 087 2067920.

Church News

If you would like to book a weekend anniversary mass for a loved one during the months of November and December, please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392.
Although we always like to remember our deceased relatives and friends, we think of them in a special way during the month of November. Each Wednesday night during the month of November there will be a special memorial mass for all our loved ones. The final mass on Wednesday November 30th will be offered for all those who died during the past 12 months. This will be a special candle mass where each person is remembered individually. Those who died within the parish will automatically be added but you are also welcome to add the name of a friend or family member who died during the year from outside the parish. If you would like to add a name, please contact Linda Spillane or give the details to Ann in the sacristy.

Ballyduff AFC

Our local soccer club have been nominated as a benefactor of the Tesco Community Fund. While you are doing your shopping at Tesco Ardkeen and receive a blue token at the checkout. The club are asking you to take that blue token to the community fund box in the store and choose the Ballyduff AFC slot. Our local soccer club is always a hub of activity, and they provide wonderful opportunities for our young people. They are constantly enhancing their facilities and will use any money they receive to further enhance these. Please drop that blue token in the Ballyduff AFC slot and help your local club to continue to go from strength to strength.

School Success

Congratulations to the boys and girls from Ballyduff N.S who won their respective divisional football finals. I heard reports back of some lovely team play in both games and some great scores. A big thank you to all the teachers who give their time to facilitate the sporting activities of the pupils and to the club coaches who support the teaching staff.

Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club

Our local camogie club had a very busy weekend recently. The U8’s were out first when they competed in the U8 County Blitz in the SETU arena. The girls played four brilliant matches and all the hard work they put in over the year has really paid off. The U13’s played against a very strong Gaultier team. The Ballyduff girls were short a number of players, but this young team gave it everything they had. Congratulations and well done to all the girls who are making our local club such a success.

GAA Lotto.

The numbers drawn in the latest lotto draw were 14, 19, 20 and 23 and there was no lucky winner of the jackpot. The three lucky dip winners of €50 each were Sarah O Donnell, Mary Kenny and Jessica O Leary. The next draw will take place on October 30th and there will be a jackpot of €7850 up for grabs. Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5. They can be purchased from any committee member and will also be on sale outside Centra Kilmeaden on Saturday October 29th. Pick those 4 numbers carefully and that lovely jackpot could be yours.

Church News

If you would like to book an anniversary mass for a loved one during the months of October, November and December please contact Linda Spillane on 087 9838392.
Thank you to all who attended any of the four station masses which took place in the church last week. This was a lovely opportunity for friends and neighbours to come together in prayer. Fr. Mick and Fr. Francis would like to thank all who dropped in their Autumn dues. If you were unable to attend but would still like to contribute you can drop your envelope into the collection basket at the weekend or through the letterbox in the sacristy door.
It is lovely to have our local choir back singing at mass. They are always open to welcoming new members so if you would lie to join with them in song then please drop along to their rehearsals on Monday nights at 7.45pm

Bridge News

The Ballyduff/ Portlaw bridge club are back in full swing and enjoying their games on Monday nights in Ballyduff N.S. The results of the game played on Monday October 17th are as follows:
(1) Kate Hayes and Mary Prendergast
(2) Ann and William Tobin
(3) Deirdre Phelan and Elizabeth Mooney
(4) Sean Hennessy and Ann Marie Brown

Fundraising Talent Night.

Several individuals and families from the Ukraine have moved into our area and it has been decided to hold a fundraising night for them. On Saturday October 29th at 9.30pm in O Donnachas a few local talented singers will take to the stage accompanied by Tony O Brien and Co. This promises to be a great night of music and song. All are welcome to drop in and join in the fun while supporting our friends from the Ukraine.

Gold Medal Success

Congratulations to local man Aaron Keogh who recently took part in the London Fall International 2022 Jiu Jitsu competition. Aaron was very successful on the day and came away with a gold medal. Having won some weeks ago in Dublin, Aaron was ready to give his all in the international competition and that he certainly did. Congratulations and best of luck to Aaron who is now preparing to compete in Italy soon.

November Masses

I cannot believe that we are already talking about our special masses for the dead in November. During the month of November, we remember our deceased relatives and friends in a special way. A mass is offered each Wednesday night at 7.30pm in November for our dead. The last mass on Wednesday 30th is offered especially for all those who died during the past year. A list of names is compiled from the parish book, but we also like to include your family and friends from outside the parish who died during the past year. If you would like to add a name to this list, please contact Linda Spillane or drop the details into Ann in the sacristy.

Suir Valley Railway

Halloween season has arrived at Waterford Suir Valley Railway and there are many ghostly, spooky creatures hanging around so beware as you travel along the Greenway. The Spooky Express will run during the Mid-Term operating daily from October 29th to November 6th. Why not contact the station on 051 384058 and book your ticket or pop on the website and remember be careful out there!

Bridge News.

Our local bridge club are back in action and enjoying some great games of bridge. Remember you are very welcome to join the bridge club so if you would like some more information, please contact Elizabeth Mooney on 087 2067920. The following are the results from the last couple of games.
Oct 3rd 2022

1st: Kate Hayes and Sean Hennessy.
2nd: Kathleen Collins and Patsy Roche.
3rd: Mary Prendergast and Ann Cox
4th: Mary O Brien and John Fitzpatrick.
Oct 10th 2022
North/South
1st: Kathleen Collins and Joan Hartrey
2nd: Celia Nugent and Mary O Brien
3rd: Nano Fitzgerald and Kate Hayes
East/West
1st: Ann-Marie Brown and Mary Prendergast
2nd: John Fitzpatrick and Patsy Roche
3rd: Monica Sullivan and Breda Murphy

Station Masses.

For many years the station masses were held in the homes of parishioners in different areas of the parish. These masses are now celebrated in the church and are offered for all the people of the parish. This year’s Autumn masses will take place on Tuesday October 18th, Wednesday October 19th, Thursday October 20th and Friday October 21st. Each of these masses will be offered at 7.30pm. Ballyduff Church is 200 years old this year so there will be a special blessing for all who attend. The station mass is also an ideal opportunity to contribute to the fund for the priests of the parish. You are welcome to attend any of these masses or indeed all of them.

Community Alert

At the recent community alert, the annual text alert fee of €5 was taken up. The text alert scheme is of wonderful benefit to all in the community and has helped many times to interrupt criminal activity and apprehend people who have done wrong in our own community and surrounding parishes. The text alerts sent out to alert people of suspicious vehicles or people seen in areas and by issuing a description of people or vehicles the guards can trace the route taken.
If you were unable to attend the meeting but want to keep your spot on the scheme or perhaps would like to join it, then please drop your name, number and €5 to any of the following Jay Dowdall, MJ Healy or Linda Spillane.

Ukraine Meet-Up

There are now several of our friends from the Ukraine now living with families in our community and we wish them all a very warm welcome. It is important that they get to meet each other and have a space for a chat and make connections.
They are all invited along to Ballyduff Community Centre on Saturday October 22nd from 2pm to 4pm for a little bit of home away from home.

Community Centre Fund.

Ballyduff Community Centre Redevelopment Group were delighted to receive the wonderful news that they have received a grant of €15,367.90 through the Community Centre Investment fund. They plan to use the money to fit a chair lift which will allow full access to the upstairs meeting room and to put a suspended ceiling and insulation in the main hall.

Ballyduff AFC

Our local soccer club are on the outlook for some volunteer coaches for both their boys and girls academy groups and for their U12 boys team. This is a wonderful opportunity to get involved with your local club where you will receive great support from all involved with the club. If you can spare some time, please contact Jay on 087 2994687 or send a message on the clubs Facebook page.

Wedding Days

Congratulations to two more local guys who tied the knot over the past couple of weeks. Knockaderry man Patrick Kirwan, son of Gertrude and the late Tony travelled to Paulstown church to marry his bride Siobhan Murphy, daughter of Pat and Joan. Following their wedding ceremony, the happy couple and their guests travelled on to the Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny for some fine dining and dancing. The couple enjoyed a beautiful honeymoon in South Africa, and we wish them every happiness in their married life.
Newtown man David Kenny travelled to Glanmire to wed his Cork bride Christine O Halloran. The couple exchanged their vows in front of family and friends in the stunning surroundings of the Vienna Woods Hotel. They then enjoyed a wonderful reception, and my little neighbour James tells me that there was lots of dancing. We wish the happy couple every happiness in their lovely new home in Newtown.

Thought For the Week

Never regret a day,
Good days: give you happiness,
Bad day: give you experience,
Worst days: Give you lessons
And best days: give you memories

Bridge News

It is wonderful to see the local Ballyduff/ Portlaw Bridge club back in action. During the Covid season many of the members practiced their skills online but all were anxious to get back face to face and meet up with their friends from the club.
On Monday September 26th the club met at Ballyduff N.S to enjoy a game of bridge and the results on the night were as follows:
(1) Patsy Roche and Elizabeth Mooney
(2) Joint Second: Geraldine McMahon and Nano Fitzgerald
and Joan Hartery and Mary O Brien
(3) Fr. Michael O Byrne and Ann Cox.
(4) Peggy Barron and Peggy Murphy.
The club would like to invite any new members to come along to their weekly games. You don’t need to have a partner to join. If you would like some further information, please contact Elizabeth Mooney on 087 2067920.

GAA Lotto

The numbers drawn in the latest GAA lotto draw were 7, 11, 22 and 25. There was no jackpot winner but the three lucky dip winners of €50 each included lucky little me. The winners were Linda Spillane, Darren Butler and Kay O Brien. The next draw will take place on Sunday October 16th and there will be a fantastic jackpot of €7,700 up for grabs
Tickets cost just €2 each or three for €5 and are available from all committee members and will also be on sale at Centra Kilmeaden on Saturday 15th. Choose four lucky numbers and hopefully you may receive a nice early Christmas present.

Ballyduff AFC

Our local soccer club have been nominated as a benefactor of the Tesco Community Fund. While you are doing your shopping at Tesco Ardkeen and receive a blue token at the checkout. The club are asking you to take that blue token to the community fund box in the store and choose the Ballyduff AFC slot. Our local soccer club is always a hub of activity, and they provide wonderful opportunities for our young people. They are constantly enhancing their facilities and will use any money they receive to further enhance these. Please drop that blue token in the Ballyduff AFC slot and help your local club to continue to go from strength to strength.

Station Masses.

For many years the station masses were held in the homes of parishioners in different areas of the parish. These masses are now celebrated in the church and are offered for all the people of the parish. This year’s Autumn masses will take place on Tuesday October 18th, Wednesday October 19th, Thursday October 20th and Friday October 21st. Each of these masses will be offered at 7.30pm. Ballyduff Church is 200 years old this year so there will be a special blessing for all who attend. The station mass is also an ideal opportunity to contribute to the fund for the priests of the parish. You are welcome to attend any of these masses or indeed all of them.

Community Alert

At the recent community alert, the annual text alert fee of €5 was taken up. The text alert scheme is of wonderful benefit to all in the community and has helped many times to interrupt criminal activity and apprehend people who have done wrong in our own community and surrounding parishes. The text alerts sent out to alert people of suspicious vehicles or people seen in areas and by issuing a description of people or vehicles the guards can trace the route taken.
If you were unable to attend the meeting but want to keep your spot on the scheme or perhaps would like to join it, then please drop your name, number and €5 to any of the following Jay Dowdall, MJ Healy or Linda Spillane.

Ballyduff GAA.

It was an all Ballyduff affair for the U12 County Championship recently as Ballyduff Lower took on Ballyduff Upper. This was a very close game but Ballyduff Lower really stuck to their guns and supported each other and came out winners on a score line of 2-4 to 0-5. A big thank you must go to Ballyduff Upper for such a sporting game. The prize for best supporters would have gone to Ballyduff Lower as they provided great colour and cheer on the side line which was of great benefit to the team.

Recent Death

We were all shocked and saddened to hear of the death of the beautiful Jean O Loughlin, Caheruane, Kill. Jean was a young, bright, talented, beautiful young lady taken way to soon from this world. She had just begun her college life in Limerick and looking forward to the next chapter of her life. We extend our deepest sympathy to her heart broken parents Pauline and Paul and her brother Ben and all her extended family and her many friends.
Jean made friends wherever she went and many of the local young people in our area were these friends. To see the dignity and respect they showed over the last few days was just a glimpse of the affection they had for Jean. We keep them all in our thoughts and encourage them to continue to support each other and we pray that Jean’s family and friends will draw some comfort from all the wonderful memories they have of Jean. May her sweet, gentle soul now rest in peace and may she soar high with all the other angels.

Local Death

We extend our condolences to the family and friends of Terence (Terry) Kinsella late of Carrickphilip and formerly of Crossabeg and Castlebridge Co. Wexford who died suddenly in recent days. Terry will be greatly missed by his loving partner Gillian Whelan, his son Cian, his mother Margaret, his brothers, sisters, extended family and his many friends. His funeral mass was celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Crossabeg and we pray that Terry is at peace in the love of Christ in God’s heavenly home.

Ballyduff AFC

Our local soccer club have been nominated as a benefactor of the Tesco Community Fund. While you are doing your shopping at Tesco Ardkeen and when you pay you will receive a blue token. The club are asking you to take that blue token to the community fund box in the store and choose the Ballyduff AFC slot. Our local soccer club is always a hub of activity, and they provide wonderful opportunities for our young people. They are constantly enhancing their facilities and will use any money they receive to further enhance these. Please drop that blue token in the Ballyduff AFC slot and help your local club to continue to go from strength to strength.

Wedding Day

Congratulations to two local young men who recently got to marry the girls of their dreams.
Ballyduff man Niall Walsh headed to Slieverue Church to marry his sweetheart, Fiona Falconer. The couple enjoyed a beautiful wedding ceremony and then it was off to The Tower Hotel for some delicious food and a night of music and dance.
Carrickphilip man Eoin Cummins made his way to Stradbally Church to say “I do” to the love of his life Amy Whelan. The happy couple then made their way with their friends and family to The Park Hotel where they were wined and dined and then danced the night away.
We wish both couples the very best of luck for their future and a long and happy life together.

Recent Deaths

We extend our deepest sympathy to Carmel Cullinane, Johnstown on the recent death of her beloved mother. Mrs. Maura O Brien was a former resident of St. John’s Park but was a much-loved resident of Killure Bridge Nursing Home. Maura is survived by her daughter Carmel, sons Bernard and John, her adored grandchildren Alannah, Keira, Darragh and Liam, son-in-law Richie, daughters-in-law Xiomara and Dawn, extended family and her many friends. Maura’s funeral mass took place in The Sacred Heart Church, The Folly and Maura was laid to rest beside her beloved husband John in St. Nicholas’ graveyard in Ballyduff.  We pray that Maura is now reunited with her beloved husband John and that they are enjoying a nice, sweet dessert together. May her gentle soul now rest in the peace and love of Christ.
We also offer our condolences to Margaret Carlin, Ballyduff on the death of her sister Cait Beville. Cait was living in the UK but was always in contact with family back home. Cait is survived by her sisters Margaret, Bernie and Martina and brothers Pat, Philip and Michael. We pray that Cait is at rest and will enjoy the peace and love of Christ in his heavenly home

Station Masses.

For many years the station masses were held in the homes of parishioners in different areas of the parish. These masses are now celebrated in the church and are offered for all the people of the parish. This years Autumn masses will take place on Tuesday October 18th, Wednesday October 19th, Thursday October 20th and Friday October 21st. Each of these masses will be offered at 7.30pm. Ballyduff Church is 200 years old this year so there will be a special blessing for all who attend. The station mass is also an ideal opportunity to contribute to the fund for the priests of the parish. You are welcome to attend any of these masses or indeed all of them.

Gala Success

We send many congratulations to Damien and Majella Hennessy and all their staff at Gala in Kilmeaden on their recent success at the 2022 B.E.S.T Awards. They were a much-deserved winner of a Business Excellence Standard Award and were delighted to accept the award on behalf of al the staff and managements. We wish them continued success with their business.

Social Dancing

I know that there are many in our community who enjoy a bit of social dancing and I have seen many twinkle toes around the parish. Our neighbours in Kill are hosting some social dancing evenings on Wednesday and Sunday evenings during the month of October. There are some great musical acts lined up to provide the music. Admission is just €10 and there will be a mineral bar. Check out the Kill Community Centre Facebook page to see the line up of musical acts and polish up those dancing shoes.

Ballyduff Lower Camogie

Congratulations to the U12 girls from Ballyduff Lower Camogie Club who represented their club and county on September 24th last in DCU in the Tesco “National Hurl with me Day”. Some senior members of the club also togged out in club colours and enjoyed a few fun games. A brilliant day was had by all and the over 12’s enjoyed it just as much as the U12’s, maybe even a bit more!

Halloween Times

Now that the summer season is coming to an end the crew at the Waterford Suir Valley Railway are getting ready for the Halloween season. Bookings are now open for the mid term and the scary season. It is operated during the day so it is less scary for the children and will be lots of fun. All the gang at the railway look forward to the Halloween season every year and eagerly await the arrival of some ghosts and ghouls.