Golden Jubilee.
On Friday June 9th we all gathered in Ballyduff Church to celebrate with our Parish Priest Fr.Michael O Byrne the occasion of his Golden Jubilee. 50 years ago Fr.Mick headed off to Maynooth to pledge his service to God and his people. In a beautiful and humourous sermon Fr.Mick brought us on a journey of his priesthood and told us tales and memories of the many parishes he has served in. He came to us here in Ballyduff and Portlaw 23 years ago and we quickly became friends and I am happy to say we haven’t fallen out yet and I count him among one of my best friends. At the beginning of the mass some symbols were brought forward depicting not only his dedication to the service but also the hobbies he enjoys. A class photo of all the men who entered Maynooth with him, the three different coloured stoles which the priest wears throughout the year, his bridge cards and scoresheet showing his love for his weekly bridge game, a play script showing his long running association with drama as both actor and director and lastly a novel showing his great interest in reading. He has often been known to read 20 novels while on holidays especially detective stories and thrillers. The readings were read by Fr.Micks nieces and the prayers of the faithful and offertory gifts were all performed by people with some connection to Fr. Mick. Throughout the mass our local choir sang Fr.Micks favourite hymns beautifully and we have heard nothing but praise back about the choir from visitors on the night from other areas. The ceremony was really lovely and was just how he wanted it, simple and prayerful. Many thanks to all who played any part throughout the mass, the many priests, servers, our wonderful sacristan and her assistants, readers, gift bearers, church cleaners, flower arrangers,choir and all other volunteers.
It was then off over to the school hall for some tea, coffee and spectacular food provided by the great Liam Fogarty. Local lady Annette Atkins made a fantastic cake which was enjoyed by many. A big well done to the members of the Parish council, hall committee,parents council and the many other volunteers who set up, served and cleaned up. The whole occasion went off without a hitch and that happens when you live in a great community. There was a wonderful heartwarming feeling being part of it all and the smile on Fr.Micks face made everything worthwhile. When I arrived home I was trying to think of a descriptive word to sum up how I was feeling and then I received a text from a fellow parishioner and friend and she hit the nail on the head when she used the word “closeness” and that was the word I was searching for. A closeness to God and a closeness to community, thats how it felt.
Fr.Mick has asked me to say a huge thank you for all who gave him cards, gifts, good wishes and prayers. He really appreciates all of these things and will remember you all in his prayers.
Graveyard Mass.
Our annual graveyard mass will take place on Wednesday July 5th at 7.30pm. Please spread the word to anyone you know outside the parish who may have a relative or friend buried here. Following the mass we will have a cuppa and refreshments in the community centre. Another date for your diary is the annual Newcastle mass which will take place on Monday August 21st at 7.30pm.
Bridge News
The results of the latest bridge game played on Monday June 12th were:
1st: Peggy Murphy and Elizabeth Mooney.
2nd: Patsy Roche and Kathleen Collins.
3rd: Kate Hayes and Michael O Donovan.
4th: Anna Marie Brown and Theresa Phelan.
Help Needed
I dont have to tell any of you about the wonderful work which is being done by our tidy towns group. Recently some of them decided to tackle the long grass which is now growing up around the outside of our playground. Our council tell us that due to holidays they do not have the staff to do this work. A group will meet down there again on Thursday night 22nd at 7.30pm and are asking people for help. If you are a parent or guardian of children who like to visit the lovely playground then maybe you could spare an hour or two. Bring along your rakes etc and remember many hands make light work.
Items of Interest
If you would like me to include an item of interest in these notes please contact me by a Thursday evening of each week and I would be delighted to include it. You can text or call me on 087-9838392 or drop me an email on spillanelinda2017@gmail.com.