Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Death
Battling illness can make a person feel very despondent but the manner of spirit, strength of mind and body that Paddy Nolan, Magheraveen fought his illness over the past few years was testimony to the strength of character that was within the man. Paddy, predeceased by his parents Peter and Annie, his sister Winnie and recently his brother Tom passed away on Monday 7th September at his home. He was a man never to remain idle, seen what was needed to be done and went and done it. Paddy had a brilliant mechanical mind with great attention to detail and following a short number of years in Paddy Kenny’s garage in Lanesboro he moved to the recently opened Cameron Willis in Longford where he spent 31 years until his retirement. Paddy had a wonderful aptitude toward recognising problems and dealing with them. He was a superb neighbour and friend and his passing will be solely missed. He was proud native of his home parish of Killashee and he played a leading role with the football teams and later as chairman of the club. He later went on to be a chairman in his adopted parish of Rathcline where he was chairman of the Ladies club. He had a great love of dancing and music and it was at a dance in the Sliabh Bán Hotel that he met his to be wife Ann Brehon and they recently celebrated their 47th Anniversary. Paddy’s never to be inactive worked his farm, gave great dedication to the rearing of the farm stock and also gave great attention to the rearing of his turf – his winter fuel. He was also very capable around the house doing many of the chores as well as being a dab hand at cooking. He had a strong and personal faith and his preference was always to attend early mass every Sunday.
Paddy’s remains reposed at his home in Magheraveen on Wednesday last 9th and on Thursday his remains were removed to St. Mary’s church Lanesboro for his Funeral Mass. Interment took place afterwards in Cloontuskert Cemetery. To his wife Ann, his sons David and Kevin, his daughter Patrice, his brother Peter, his sisters Nancy, Margaret, Jean, Kathleen, Helenand Irene, his sister in law Linda,his grandchildren, extended family, relatives and friends we extend our heartfelt sympathy.
Church Gate Collection
The Ballyleague Tidy Towns will hold their annual church gate collection on Sunday next 20th September. Your usual generous support will be greatly appreciated.
Reconnection and Recollection of Bord na Mona and ESB
Saturday week 26th September will prove to be a powerful day (pardon the pun) in the community as we welcome former workers and their families back to Lanesboro for a Bord na Mona and ESB Reconnection and Recollection Day. The committee has been gathering memories of past glory days and all will be on display in the parish hall.
Former workers and their families and students of the local primary schools of Lanesboro, Fermoyle, Cloontuskert, Ballyleague, Ballagh, Curraghroe, Cloontagh and Lanesboro Community College (formerly Lanesboro Vocational School) of BnM and ESB that lived and gave so much to our community and the wider area will be welcomed to meet and catch up with former workers or indeed former schoolmates. We also welcomed and housed many apprentices in our community as they completed their training at Lanesboro Vocation School, now Lanesboro Community College and we would love to welcome them back to relive their memories in Lanesboro.
Lanesboro, Ballyleague and the surrounding communities were very fortunate to have BnM and ESB power station in our community and we were equally fortunate in the calibre of people that came to work and live amongst us and they are still fondly remembered to this day. It is amazing that people from all over the country that came from the very outset are still being quoted and mentioned with a great fondness and respect.
There is a general and wide invitation to everyone and their families to visit the hall between 10 and 4pm and enjoy the company of former workers and old friends.
This is a wonderful opportunity for everybody to come to the hall for the exhibition and welcome the people back to our community.
Sliabh Bán Harvest Festival
Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club is holding its 3rd annual Harvest Festival this coming Sunday September 20th at the foothills of Sliabh Bán at Lismehy, Strokestown, (Eircode F42 VN82). The show will feature vintage cars, tractors, engines and vintage trades. Among the attractions are corn threshing, corn grinding, wood turning, blacksmith and farriery. There will also be butter-making, boxty-making and craft stalls. There will be food vendors, funfair and something for all age groups. Everyone welcome to what should be an interesting family day out.
The past two years has seen the Harvest Festival going from strength to strength with the attendance increasing significantly with added spectator attractions. This year we hope that there will again be tremendous support for this wonderful day in our community.
Win a load of Turf
Here is your opportunity to be in with the chance to win a 15 x 7ft trailer load of turf in the Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club’s fundraising draw. Tickets are priced at €5 for one or a book of 3 for €10. The draw will take place in the Central Bar, Strokestown on Friday 27th November.
Solstice Choir success in Backstage
The Roscommon Solstice Choir presented their show “Songs that Built a Nation” to full houses in the Backstage Theatre Longford on the 9th and 10th September.
This show which is appealing to audiences everywhere, tells the story of Irish History from 1798 to 1921 through the medium of Ballads, Poetry Speech and Music. In the words of the Musical Director Eimear Reynolds, “we bring you on a powerful and moving journey through Irish History, as told through a compelling blend of narration and song”.
This show is based on a script by well-known Roscommon Playwright and Historian Tommy Murray, and directed by Andrew And Eimear Reynolds, and Eddie Kiernan who have been associated with many successful shows in the Backstage.
During this tumultuous period in Irish History as the show reveals, Irish People composed music, poetry and sang songs that helped to lift the spirits and morale of the nation. As the PRO of the choir Jimmy Hoban explained “we must never underestimate the power exercised by our musicians, poets and singers in our History, as they fought in their own way to keep the spirit of freedom alive”.
Through a variety of narration, songs and music the audience were treated to an exciting and informative Historical journey beginning with the United Irishmen Rebellion of 1798, winding its way through The Famine, and the Land League and Home Rule movements and culminating with the Easter Rising of 1916 and the subsequent War of Independence 1920-21.
Eimear Reynolds said “I am more than thrilled at the various talents of the choir members, as they embrace their roles with enthusiasm, and enter into the real spirit of the project”.
The audience really enjoyed this production with many regarding it as “a great night’s entertainment ” and “a fabulous and powerful show”.
The choir would particularly like to thank, Mona Considine, Sean Mulroy and all the wonderful team at the Backstage Theatre Longford and the members of St Mel’s Musical Society Committee for their help with front of house and the Backstage theatre company.
Under 16 A Champions
Saturday last was a red lettered day for the Shannon Gaels Minor club when they came home to Lanesboro with the Under 16 County A title following their victory over Drumlish.
Remarkably, this is the first win in the A category for the club since the late Gerry McGrath, The Green, captained the U16’s to victory against St. Francis Dromard in 1971.
Playing with the wind in the first half they used all the advantages and held the lead at half time. The second half these young men moved to consolidate their position, to bridge the 55 year gap, and running out comfortable winners over a very gallant Drumlish side. This was a very special day for the players, the mentors and the club.
The winning panel was captained by Alfie Murphy and the rest of the panel were Jack Cassidy, Adam Greally, Darragh Donlon, Patrick Casey, Tom Hession, Tyler Murray, Shane Farrell, Ethan Donlon, Josh Curran, Andrew Nolan, Tim Kenny, Darragh Shanley, Hayden Smith, Oisín Dillon, Adrians Danilovs, Sajad Hameed, David Kenny, Luke O’Halloran, Donncha Farrell, Stephen Farrell, Matthew Murphy, Michael Hogan, Darragh McGloin, Maitiú Hanly and Elliott Johnston and we off them our heartiest congratulations. We also congratulate Shane Farrell who was awarded Man-of-the Match for his performance. We cannot overlook the work of the team management in the quality preparation they put into the lads all year in preparation for this momentous day and they were Mark Kenny, Duncan Murphy, David Curran and Eoin Donnellan.
Photograph courtesy of Syl Healy
Culture Night in the Library
As part of Culture Night 2026, local photographer Oonagh Casey will present The Art of Conversation in Lanesborough Library on Friday 18th September, from 7pm to 9pm.
The Art of Conversation is an on-going documentary photography project featuring portraits of people from Lanesboro. Each portrait is accompanied by a short snippet from a conversation Oonagh had with the person photographed.
The project has developed over a number of years and is centred on local people and the everyday conversations and encounters that are part of life in Lanesboro.
Everyone is welcome to come along to Lanesborough Library from 7pm to 9pm on Saturday, 19 September to see the exhibition.
The exhibition is supported by Longford County Council and the Arts Council as part of Culture Night 2026.
No to the Solar Farm
Below is the current update received from the ‘No to the Solar Farm’ group
A sincere thank you to everyone who attended our recent objection support clinic. It was extremely encouraging to see so many members of the community taking the time to learn about the planning process and how to make their voices heard regarding the proposed development in our local area.
If you were unable to attend the clinic, don’t worry as there will be a further clinic on Saturday next 19th September in the hall from 10am until 2pm. Our committee is available to help. Simply email
info@protectlanesborough.com and a member of the Protect Lanesborough Committee will contact you directly to provide guidance and support with preparing and submitting your observation or objection.
We would also like to remind everyone that the closing date for submissions is 22 September.
We strongly encourage you not to leave your submission until the last day. Submitting early helps to avoid any last-minute issues and ensures your observations are received on time.
Every submission matters, and community participation is an important part of the planning process.
Together, we can ensure that local voices are heard.
Stay connected and follow us for updates, information, and community news:
Further Finals for Rathcline
The Rathcline Under 16 ladies team will take on Clonguish in their U16 A Championship Cup Final on Tuesday next 22nd September at 7pm (under lights) at venue yet to be confirmed.
The Shannon Gaels Under 14 panel will take on Clonguish in Glennon Brothers Pearse Park on Saturday next at 2pm. We wish the panel and management the very best of luck and let us hope that there will be further celebrations in the parish.
Rathcline Junior Ladies had a great victory over Mullinalaghta on Sunday morning last and they have now qualified to play Ballymahon/Forgney in the Junior A Championship semi-final on Sunday next at 11am in Clonbonny.
Go along and give the teams the very best of support in what is a very busy and very successful time for the clubs.
New Defibrillator location
There is always a need for new locations for defibrillators in the community and we were delighted to be informed last week of a new defibrillator being installed at Lanesboro Primary School The new defibrillator is located inside the school grounds at the left hand side of the front door. The Parents Association are to be thanked for the sponsorship of the housing unit for the defibrillator.
Golden Wedding Anniversary
Congratulations to Anne and Patrick Fayne, Cullentra, who celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on Friday 4th September.
Firstly, Mass was celebrated in Church of the Risen Christ, Kiltoom where the Chief celebrant was Anne s brother, Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan assisted by Fr. John Quinn. Afterwards the celebrations continued in Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone.
We send our best wishes to Anne and Patrick for many more years of health and happiness.
Bridge Classes
Beginners and improvers bridge classes will start on Thursday week September 24th in Lanesborough Parish Hall. Contact joanmd@eircom.net or phone Joan on 0862350161.
Energy Master Plans Online Launch – 16th September, 7.30pm.
The Energy Master Plans for Lanesborough, Ballyleague, and Longford Town have now been completed and will be launched in an online meeting on Wednesday 16th September at 7.30 pm. All are welcome to join the meeting. For login details and further information, please email gerard@climate23.com or phone 086 335 7892 or 087 222 2543.
The Energy Master Plans have been prepared by Climate 23 Consulting and funded by SEAI together with Longford and Roscommon County Councils. The master plans include details of current energy use in homes, businesses, and community building and outline a range of energy and cost saving measures and potential grant aid sources.
The plans were developed under SEAI’s Sustainable Energy Communities (SEC) programme, with Ballyleague SEC, the Longford Renewable Energy SEC in Lanesborough, and the Longford Town SEC
The Joker reaches €4,000
The Joker is on the rise once again and on Saturday night last 12th September the Joker was not cut from the deck of cards and another €100 will be added to the jackpot for next week. With the cards getting fewer and the jackpot is still rising, this is a great time to be taking your chance of winning the growing pool. The Joker will now stand at a rising €4,000 from the remaining 32 cards on Saturday night next 19th September in the St. Faithleach’s clubhouse.
The €100 draw took place and the two winners of last Saturday’s draw winners, 12th September were Eileen Mullen and Kathleen Langan.
Be in with your chance to have a cut for the Joker by buying tickets online on the ClubSpot portal St. Faithleach’s
Combo fit class with Regina
The Combo Fit class continues on Thursday’s in St. Marys Hall, Lanesboro. 7.30pm.. The class will incorporate low impact Pilates Movements, using body weight, light hand weights, resistance bands. This will improve posture, balance, bone density, and will enhance joint mobility.
Be strong, steady, and straight.
For further information please contact Regina at 087 2485822.
Manoeuvres at the Power Station
I have received notice that there will once again be Defence Force Manoeuvres taking place at Lanesboro Power Station from Monday 14th to Wednesday 16th September. The 6th Battalion based in Custume Barracks Athlone will be the unit involved in these manoeuvres.
Similar to the previous manoeuvres there will be a good bit of noise coming from the area and there is no need for anyone to be alarmed.
Notes inclusions
Anybody that wants items included in the local notes is advised that they have their note with me on a Sunday night at the very latest. This is to ensure inclusion in the notes of the following week.
Hospice Coffee Morning
St Faithleach’s GAA club are hosting a coffee morning in aid of Hospice in their Clubhouse on Saturday 26th September from 10.00am to 1.00pm. Come along and enjoy a coffee and a chat and support this worthy cause.
All welcome
Longford Hospice Coffee Morning
The Lanesborough branch of Longford Hospice is hosting a Coffee Morning in St. Marys Parish Hall on Sunday morning next 20th September from 11am to 1pm. Your support will be greatly appreciated.
TAI CHI
TAI CHI and CHI KUNG is a well-recognised movement for health and fitness and classes for both disciplines has commenced in Ballyleague Hall on Wednesday evenings from 8 to 9pm. If you want to register or find out further information you are asked to phone 087 9925816
French and German Grinds
Private one-to-one grinds in French and German in preparation for the Leaving Cert are available locally. Individual lessons will be tailored to each student with exam focused preparation and practice. Adult, children and teenagers – all levels welcome and the grinds will cover speaking, grammar, vocabulary, and writing.
Enrolment is now open for the new academic year. There are a limited number of places available with an experienced foreign language teacher. To enrol or to have any other question answered you are asked to phone, WhatsApp or text 089 488 5679.
Citizens Information Service
Our Age Friendly drop-in clinic is available weekly on Tuesdays from 1:30pm-3:30pm. Please note commencing September 1st 2026 the time will change to 2pm-4pm weekly. No appointment is necessary. Should you require further details, please telephone 0818 07 5890.
Championship Updates
Last weekend was not a great one for Rathcline senior team as they only managed a draw against Mullinalaghta in what was a loser gets relegated game. A goal in the dying seconds of the game by Mullinalaghta proved to be crucial to draw the game and as a consequence of the loss in the previous game meant that the draw was not enough to save Rathcline. The team will now play Intermediate football in 2027.
St. Faithleach’s senior team will travel to Kiltoom on Friday evening next for their game against Clann na Gael at 8pm. It is a hugely important game for St. Faithleach’s and it is hoped that there will be massive support from the community to be the 16th man and hopefully cheer the team to victory.
Memory Walk
ASI Memory Walk 2026 is a family-friendly event suitable for all ages and walking abilities to unite friends, families and communities to raise awareness and funds for dementia supports. The Longford branch will hold their walk in Corlea Bog Walking Trail, Kenagh Longford at 11.00 on Sunday next 20th September. There is a 4KM and a 5KM Loop which are buggy friendly and people can walk at their own pace. You can sign up now to participate in the 2026 Alzheimer’s Memory Walk at www.memorywalk.ie. Registrations cost €5 for kids and €20 for adults and include a participation pack with a Memory Walk t-shirt. The closing date for registrations to receive your participation pack before the walk is noon on Wednesday, September 16th. Registration will also take place at Corlea Bog on the day. Many thanks for your continued support.
Create lasting memories before the summer becomes a memory.
Don’t let this beautiful weather pass without availing of a trip on John Sorohan’s electric boat? Experience the peaceful lapping waters of the river without the noise of an engine. View the environment of Lanesboro from a different perspective.
On the trip you will hear about the history of Upper Lough Ree.
This trip is perfect for families, couples, and groups.
Check John out at https://www.loughReeBoatingandWalkingTours.ie
Roscommon Association London
We received a reminder last week to begin making preparation for the Roscommon Association London, Annual Dinner Dance that will take place on Saturday 24th October in the Clayton Hotel, Chiswick, London. The drinks reception will take place at 6.30pm and the dinner will be served 7.30pm. Further information and books can be made by contacting roscommonassoclondon@gmail.com
Athlone and Midland Samaritans
Athlone Samaritans need additional volunteers to maintain their 24Hr free befriending service. Could you be a Samaritan volunteer? No experience or qualification needed as we will train, mentor and support you. If you think you might be interested please call or text John 087 7176168 or email athlone.branchrecruitment@samaritans.org Samaritans provide 24hr emotional support on Freecall 116123.
Rathcline 50/50 Draw
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 31st August was for a pool that amounted to €696. The winning ticket was in the name of the Noel Gavigan, Corrigeen. As usual the winning cheque will be left in O’Brien’s for collection and can be usually collected on Wednesday evenings.
The Rathcline 50/50 draw takes place every Monday night in one of our local bars at 7.30pm. Your continued generous support is keeping the pool at a wonderfully high figure and it is greatly appreciated as it is making a great difference to the winner each week.
€15,000 still remains to be won
The Lanesboro Tidy Towns lottery draw takes place every Tuesday morning in O’Brien’s at 10.30am. For the past number of months the jackpot has hit its upper limit of €15,000 and with nobody having the correct numbers that €15,000 there still there and you have a chance of being the winner of the €15,000. The next draw takes place on this Tuesday 22nd September for the jackpot of €15,000 and if it is not won on the 15th September. Don’t miss your opportunity to get hold of the full €15,000 or share in the money. The numbers drawn in the last draw on Tuesday 8th September were 14, 17, 25 and 26. The winner of the €50 prize was Michelle Lappin c/o Carol Ferguson and the three winners of the €20 prizes were Michel Clancy, Lough Ree Distillery, Celine McDermott, Ballinalee, and Eileen Plested, Ballyleague. The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the €15,000 on Tuesday 8th September and every Tuesday morning afterwards. The brown envelopes cost €2 each or you can buy 3 envelopes for just €5.
We would like to encourage everyone in the community to join in the playing of this very vital weekly draw. Tickets are on sale throughout the town.
Lough Ree Access For All
The Lough Ree Access For All is running accessible and able bodied boat tours 3 times daily during the summer months. The services supplied are a Riverside Café, Sensory Shed, Virtual Reality experience, Powerboat training courses, and Lake Boat hire. You can see the full list of facilities and activities on the website www.loughreeboattrips.com ; email info@accessforallboatrips.com or phone 089 262 5505.
Shine Relatives and Supporters Group
A monthly support group for individuals supporting people living with mental health challenges. The support group occurs on the 2nd Tuesday of the month, 7pm – 8.30pm in REGARI Recovery College, Roscommon Town. Email support@shine.ie or call 086 040 7701.
Shared Reading
A gentle and welcoming shared reading group takes place in the Roscommon library, open to people living with dementia and their carers. Come along to relax, enjoy listening to stories of local history or any topic, and share a cup of tea in a friendly, supportive setting. There is no pressure to read – simply listen and enjoy the company. Every second Wednesday at 11am and continues every Wednesday at Roscommon Town Library Contact: 09066 37277 library@roscommoncoco.ie New members are always very welcome. If you or someone you know might enjoy this relaxed social gathering, please feel free to come along.
Shine Relatives & Supporters Group
A monthly support group for individuals supporting people living with mental health challenges occurs on the 2nd Tuesday of each month, 7pm – 8.30pm in REGARI Recovery College, Athlone Road, Roscommon Town. Email support@shine.ie or call 086 040 7701.
REGARI Recovery College is the single story building on the immediate right past the cemetery on the grounds of the Roscommon Hospital
Short Breaks Scheme
Would you be interested in providing home from home short breaks for children & adults who have an intellectual disability? Corlann West, Homeshare Roscommon is recruiting host carers. Training and support will be provided. Tax exempt/Allowances paid. For further information email www.Homeshareroscommon@corlann.ie or phone Catherine on 090 6628500 / 087 2126607.
N. A Meetings
N.A. physical meetings on Tuesday nights from 8 – 9 p.m. in Room 13 at St. Coman’s Club,
Ballyleague Bingo
Ballyleague Bingo continues in Ballyleague Hall every Thursday night. The first numbers will be called at 8.30pm.
The club is extremely grateful for your on-going tremendous support.
Chit Chat
The local ‘Chit Chat’ group that meets between 10am and 12pm in Adie’s bar every Friday from 10am until 12 noon.
Ballyleague Hall caretaker
Liam Garvey is caretaker of Ballyleague Hall. For all bookings and requests you can contact Liam on 085-1698032
My Open Library
My Open Library gives patrons extended, staff-free access to the library from 8am to 10pm, 365 days a year using their library card. Call into the library to learn how the system works, see a demonstration, and sign up for extended access. Whether you want to use the library to study after hours, pick up a book on the way home from work or get out of the house with your little ones on a rainy day, My Open Library can provide you the access you need!
To keep an eye on upcoming events, you can visit the library or online on longfordlibrary.ie and searching for library events.
All Enquiries: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie or 0433321291.
Coping Skills Program
“Seeking Safety” is a free coping skills program for women affected by trauma, mental health and/or addiction. Learn new ways to cope safely with your own triggers, impulses and symptoms and gain a more compassionate understanding of yourself and “take back your power from the impacts of trauma, mental health and/or addiction. The program is funded by the HSE and is being delivered in Castlerea and Boyle with a new group starting in Roscommon Town. For more information, please contact Lorraine in complete confidence. 094 96 21690/lcampbell@rwn.ie
ALONE
Would you be willing to provide companionship to an older person locally? ALONE are seeking volunteers in your area. Full training and support provided. If interested, please apply via the ALONE website at www.alone.ie or for further information please contact us on volunteer@alone.ie or call 0818 222 024. If you are over 60 and would like to know more about the services ALONE can offer you, please call 0818 222 024.
Lanesboro Garda Station
Lanesboro Garda Station has just posted a notice telling of its opening times where the station will have a member of the force in attendance for the public. Lanesboro station will be open on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 11am. The station will be open at those times unless the local Garda is dealing with a situation that requires their attendance.
Co. Longford Citizens Advice Centre
Co. Longford Citizens Information Service has recently been restructured and is currently under new management.
They continue to provide free, impartial, and confidential information, advice, and advocacy services to the public on social services, rights, and entitlements. The range of areas covered by the citizens information centre are extremely wide including social welfare rights and entitlements and other social issues such as employment, health services, housing, education, family matters and consumer rights, all where people need access to information.
The way people access the services changed during Covid and now they currently deal with a large number of queries over the telephone, however, they continue to provide our drop-in times and welcome people to their face-to-face service five mornings a week from the Longford office. The services are provided by experienced trained Information Officers who are there to help you.
The centre is located on level 1 within Longford Shopping Centre and direction can be obtained at the reception desk from Monday to Friday from 9.30am until 5.00pm. The office closes for lunch from 1pm until 2pm.
Gambling Anonymous
Meetings for those with problems with gambling take place in in the Family Centre, Longford (at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral) on Tuesdays at 8pm.
Support Group
Relatives and friends of anyone who has an alcoholic problem are welcome to attend meetings in the Family Centre at the back of St. Mel’s Cathedral. The meetings take place every Tuesday evenings at 7pm.
ALONE
Support line for older people
ALONE manage a national support line and additional support for older people who have concerns or are still facing difficulties relating to Covid-19. Professional staff is available to answer queries and give advice and reassurance where necessary. The support line is open seven days a week from 8am until 8pm. Text TALK to 50808 to begin.
Local Health Service
The health service is here for us all, from routine to urgent calls. HSELive is here 7 days a week to answer questions. The number to ring is Freephone 1800 700700.
Roscommon University Hospital Injury Unit is available from 8am to 8pm seven days, a week and the contact number is 09066 32212.
Emergency Department deals with serious injuries and life-threatening emergencies if you need urgent medical help. They are open 24 hours a day and can be contacted by phoning 999 or 112.
St. Mary’s Church Lanesboro
Priest contacts: If you have a need to contact any one of the priests you can do so by phoning Fr. Merlyn Kenny 086 0603433 or Fr. Turlough Baxter 087 9972259.
You can also contact parish secretary Maireád Rooney by calling into the presbytery from Tuesday to Thursday, 10.30am to 2.30pm.or she can be contacted on the phone at 3321166.
Parish Funeral Ministry: An introduction course commences on Wednesday 30th September, starting at 7.30pm. The course will continue on Wednesday 7th and 14th October. Two parishioners who are involved in liturgy preparations are invited to attend. Please let Fr. Turlough know by contacting him on 087 9972250 or turlough.baxter@gmail.com
Legion of Mary Pilgrimage: The Annual Legion of Mary Pilgrimage to Knock will take place on Sunday 27th September. A bus will leave from Lanesboro at 9am. To book a seat you should contact Peter 087 6613510, Ursula 087 9016062, or Kitty 086 0405621.
Sacrament of Reconciliation: Confession time in the Prayer Room takes place on the first Friday of each month from 6.30pm to 7pm.The next opportunity is on Friday 2nd October.
Smart Recovery: Smart recovery is an evidence based addiction recovery group, where participants learn self-empowering techniques to aid their recovery by overcoming addictive behaviour. There is a meeting every Friday evening in Vita House in Roscommon Town from 7pm to 8.30pm. For information contact Conor at 086 1702919 or info@smartrecovery.ie
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland: The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is open six days a week Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturday from 10am to 4pm. The society provides an opportunity for all of us to stand together and support people with dementia. Their phone number is 1800 341 341 and their website is www.alzheimer.ie
Kilgefin Parish Notes
Contact: Fr Daniel can be contacted at 089 270 6060
Hall Caretaker: We thank Liam Garvey for the wonderful service he rendered for the past number of months. We are currently looking for a new caretaker for Ballyleague Hall. It is a part-time position involving a few hours a week. The role entails taking hall bookings; setting up for events, ordering oil fills etc. Assistance would be given to whoever takes over the role. If you are interested in this position or if you have any queries please contact Brenda Reynolds at 086 8896 969 or Fr. Dan.
Station Masses: The Station Masses will commence in September. The Station Masses were a great success in February and we are looking forward to a greater celebration in September. If anyone would like to have their area’s Station Mass in their home could they get in contact with Fr. Dan to arrange a convenient date?
The first of the Station Masses will take place in Ballyleague Church on Monday next 21st September at 7pm for areas Ballyleague 1, 2, 3, 4, Lough Ree Park, Shannon Heights, Shannon Grove and Ballyclare Court.
On Tuesday 22nd September the Station Mass at 7pm will take place in Ballagh for Ballagh, Gortylane, Ballincurry, Corry, Waterloo, Coxgrove, Cloonageeragh, Carton, Kilrooskey and Fairymount.
On Thursday 24th September Station Mass will take place in Curraghroe church at 7pm for the townlands of Doughill, Culleenoria, Tullyvarron, and Kilavacken.
Pastoral Council: We will be holding our next Ballyleague Church Pastoral Council meeting in on Monday next 21st September at 7pm in Aras Mhuire meeting room and all members are asked to attend.
2025 Accounts: Overall, the finances of the parish and parish hall continue to be kept at break-even annually. Copies of the end of year accounts for 2025 are available at the back of the church.
Newsletter inclusion: Any items you want included in the newsletter you must email the contents to kilgefinparish21@gmail.com on or before the Wednesday of that week.
Jubilee of Marriages: Couples celebrating their Silver, Ruby, Golden, Diamond, Platinum or other wedding anniversaries are invited to attend one of two Jubilee Masses, along with their families and friends on either Sunday 4th October at 2.30pm in Ballaghaderreen Cathedral or Sunday 11th October at 2.30pm in Kiltoom Church. Bishop Kevin will celebrate both Masses. Light refreshments will be served afterwards for all in attendance. As each couple celebrating an Anniversary will receive a certificate from Bishop Kevin, they are asked to register their details at www.achonryelphin.ie
St. Joseph’s Young Adult Community: The Dioceses of Achonry and Elphin invites applications from young people aged 18 to 30 years who wish to live at St. Joseph’s Young Adult Community, an international faith community in Sligo town, while going about their regular work or study in Sligo. To apply, email Sinead: youth@achonryelphin.ie For further information search www.achonryelphin.ie
Medjugorje Pilgrimage: The Medjugorje Pilgrimage will take place from the 21st – 28th October, from Knock €915 (Single Supplement €170). There is limited availability so early booking is advisable. Spiritual Director for the pilgrimage is: Fr. John Keane. The costs include flights/ accommodation/meals/programme. For information and bookings please contact Christina 0861546099 or Carol 0879581495
Short Breaks Scheme: Would you be interested in providing home from home short breaks for children/adults who have an intellectual disability? Corlann West, Homeshare Roscommon is recruiting host carers. Training/support provided. Tax exempt allowances paid. Email: Homeshareroscommon@corlann.ie call Catherine on 090 6628500 / 087 2126607.