Mass Bookings.
In recent weeks we took the bookings for the anniversary masses for the weekend masses during January, February and March and there are still some dates available. If you would like to book a mass for a loved one during these months then please give a ring to Linda on 051-399925 or 087-9838392.
Christmas Thanks.
It was lovely to see such big crowds at the Christmas Eve and Day masses. Fr .Mick welcomed everyone especially those who had travelled home for Christmas. He reminded us to be aware of people around us who for one reason or another were not looking forward to the holiday season. Perhaps they were suffering from a sickness, bereavement, loneliness or other problems. He reminded us that sometimes the nicest gift can be a visit, a phone call, a simple hug.
During the Christmas Eve mass we were treated to a beautiful nativity play by some local children and this truly displayed the true meaning of Christmas. A huge well done to all the children who performed to perfection and to Joan, Christine and Isabel for arranging and directing it all. Thanks also to Christine who led the singing and James and John for providing such excellent music.
During both masses Fr.Mick said a big thank you to everyone who helps in the church every week of the year and without whom the church would not run so smoothly.
Juvenile AGM.
Ballyduff GAA club will hold their Juvenile section AGM on Friday January 16th at 7.30pm in Ballyduff Community Centre. All are welcome to attend.
Tragic News.
Our whole community was shocked and stunned this week when news spread of the sudden death of John Bran Walsh. John was a hardworking family man who lived a quiet life with his wife Alice on their farm where they raised 4 sons and 3 daughters. John had a great love and passion for the land and livestock. He loved farming so much that when he would have his own jobs done nothing gave him greater pleasure than heading off to the farm of his true and loyal friend Roger Shanahan to help him out. John also loved a game of cards so I am sure there is a great game going on up in heaven as we speak, I could nearly name a few who are joining in.
The family can be very proud of the funeral mass they prepared making sure readings, prayers, offertory gifts and music was symbolic for them. The large crowd who attended is a testament to the respect people had for John. We send our deepest sympathy to Alice and the children and the grandchildren and also to Johns sisters and brother. We know that your hearts are broken and we offer our support to you all. John and Alice raised their children to be hardworking, loyal and respectful and I know they will value these qualities and pass them to their children. We as a community share your grief and pray for you all. May the soil rest gently on him and may his gentle soul rest in peace.
Notes Contact.
As we start into the new year let us share the happenings of our community with others. If you are a member of a local club or organisation and want to let people know about your activities, then I have the answer. Also why not let people know if you have had a birth, a wedding, an engagement, a birthday or indeed any news, how I hear you ask?? Contact your local friendly local notes writer Linda Spillane on 051-399925, 087-9838392 or spillanelinda@eircom.net or drop in she loves visitors.
New Year Wishes.
As the writer of these notes I sincerely want to wish each and every one of you the very best for 2015. I hope you all enjoy good health, lots of laughs and the love and friendship of family and friends. We all know that hard or sad times will come to some of our doors and if they do then I hope you find the comfort and support you need.
I never really make new year resolutions but I try each year to be a little bit better than the year before so by the time I hit 100 I will be wonderful. So if you can be a friend to someone then do so, if you have the ability or talent to help in your church or community then do so, if you can simply listen, offer a hand or give a hug then do so.
All we can do each year is our best,
By doing this, we surely pass any test.
For life it is about taking chances,
Love and friendship are lives enhancements,
May everyone I meet each day,
Be touched by something I do or say.
So when indeed my time is done,
May people say she wasn’t so bad,
I’m sorry she’s gone!!!