Lanesboro Ballyleague notes
Death
Over 92 years in this life it was very moving to be say goodbye to one of life’s great gentlemen and characters when visiting Leavy’s Funeral Home, Scramogue for the reposing of Willie Kelly, Curraghroe. Willie passed away on Thursday 16th July at Roscommon University Hospital. He was predeceased by his parents John and Mary Kate, his brothers, Michael and Jimmy, his sisters Mamie and Kathleen and his granddaughter Sophie. He spent many years working with Bord na Mona and ESB where he was a greatly respected colleague whose skill as a machine driver was renowned. Following his retirement he started working for himself with his own sod turf machine where he never seen an idle day. He had a very easy-going and laid back personality and his warm and welcoming greeting reassured everyone that they were meeting a real genuine man. He was a great family man and nobody was ever left in need or distress when Willie was around; he was a very dependable neighbour and friend. Willie was renowned for having a great love of music where his talents as a musician and singer and he willing entertained at many occasions. He released a CD of music and song and it was very moving to have this CD playing in the background at his reposing. He loved the Wednesday night sessions in Clarke’s until it closed and until he was not able go anymore he went to Adie’s when it moved from Clarkes. In the latter stages of his life he refused to give up on what he loved so much and was playing the guitar and singing songs in his home.
Willie’s remains reposed in Leavy’s Funeral Home, Scramogue on Sunday 19th and his Funeral Mass took place in in St Cecilia’s Church, Curraghroe on Monday followed by cremation in Lakelands Crematorium, Cavan.
To his wife Bridie, his sons, Brendan, Liam and Aidan, his daughters, Aileen, Cora and Maireád, his brother Peter, his sister, Bridie, grandchildren, relatives and many friends we extend our deepest sympathy.
Great Excitement
After many false dawns it was great to see that the tide finally turned for the Mayo senior footballers and their massive loyal support in Croke Park on Sunday last when their senior team finally won the All-Ireland and Sam Maguire Cup. Joy was unbridled and celebrations went long into the night.
In our community over the years and in in recent times Mayo came to work and live amongst us and their support for their home county remains very strong as can be seen with the huge number of flags flying in our two parishes.
We congratulate them all and we share greatly in their success and it is fabulous to see them finally get their due rewards in Croke Park.
Community Workshop on Thursday
Social media is a great source of information and during the week I seen that Seam Mimnagh was inviting everyone to drop into the Parish Hall for a community workshop between 6.30pm and 8.30pm regarding the development of a feasibility study for the proposed new multi-use community centre in town. This is a very important community meeting and it is essential that everyone attends and expresses their views.
You are invited to share your ideas and priorities to help develop a new sustainable, community led facility.
What is going on with the new doctor?
Over the past few months I have been hearing nothing but complaints about the service or should I say the lack of service being provided by Dr. David Booth.
The clinic is closed when it is advertised to be open and one patient even told me that when they approached the door that a lady got out of a car with a notebook to take details. Bloods are not been taken there contrary to the way it was when the two previous doctors were in situ. Appointments made, no doctor in attendance and when people ring they are told that they can do a ‘walk in’ at their Longford clinic. Repeat prescriptions should be sent to the chemists and from what I am being told by several that this does not happen without a number of calls.
All of this not near good enough and it is an insult to the patients of the two previous doctors and to the people of the Lanesboro and Ballyleague community as a whole. From what I read all local councillors, TD and Senator have expressed their dissatisfaction of the treatment of the local patients. It is now after time that the HSE looked into the circumstance of what is happening in Lanesboro and Ballyleague and take immediate and appropriate action.
Last week the following notice was sent to patients and one has to wonder, when you read this, what in God’s name is going on and is it a case that Lanesboro will be let close – I sincerely hope not. ‘ Dear ……., Our Lanesboro Clinic is now temporarily suspended. Appointments available in Longford, phone 043 3331973 Regards, Dr David Booth’
No better time to step aboard and create lasting memories.
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
ATM
As I write again on Friday 24th July it is very sad to relate there has been no change in the situation regarding the ATM – it is still not working.
This past weekend seen the town very busy once again, this time with the annual Boat Rally that attracts huge numbers both in boats and people and to be left with an ATM that still does not work is an offence to us as a community and to all our visitors.
I remember when the bank closed we were guaranteed that the new ATM was going to be a reliable replacement for those want access to cash at any time. Unfortunately it was more idle words for our community, something that happens to be more and more common.
Boat Rally Weekend
The memories of the youth of this writer were truly brought back last weekend when the 64th IWAI Boat Rally had Ballyleague as their starting point for this year’s rally. Boats were arriving throughout the week in preparation for this annual event. Come Friday evening all mooring berths were full and boats were four deep in places.
The boat rally happens once a year for Inland Waterways Association of Ireland and boat owners who tend to be predominately Irish boat owners and members of IWAI who spend a week together on the last week of July. They add so much vibrancy to all the areas that they visit. They bring great business to the town and it is great to meet and chat with them and the excitement of the 2026 Rally.
Cometh the hour cometh the man
You may feel you have read this before and you did read similar just one year ago . On Friday night last
Recent Book Launches
On Sunday last Fr. Pat Lennon launched his new book, ‘Come Here a Second Till I Tell You: My Journey Through Priesthood’.
The proceeds from book sales will go to St. Christopher’s Services and Meals on Wheels, making this a wonderful opportunity to support two very worthy causes while you are reading and celebrating Fr. Pat’s remarkable journey.
‘Come Here a Second Till I Tell You: My Journey Through Priesthood’ is on sale locally in O’Brien’s costing €20.
Daniel McGann, Killashee has become a prolific writer and his latest publication ‘Uniting Ireland’ has just reached the shop shelves this weekend. I am sure that the book will be another bestseller.
Paddy Egan has just launched ‘Rambles in Kilcommock’ volume VIIII – A collection of poems of local interest.
The book is on sale in O’Brien’s coasting €10
New Accommodation
Over the time we have noticed that the Lanesboro Ballyleague area has become more and more popular with many people wishing to spend some time here. We have noticed the great and growing influx of campervans on a weekly basis and a great growth in inquiries for accommodation in and around the area.
I was delighted to be informed during the week of further accommodation availability when the Canal View Lodges came on the market offering luxury accommodation with 6 x 3 bedroom houses sleeping up to 6 people at Foigha between Lanesboro and Ballymahon. With a spa coming on stream in the near future this new accommodation is a Godsend for those that are looking to stay locally.
To make bookings you should phone 086 170 0361
Sympathy
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Nancy and Michael Casserly, and their family, Clonfower on the death of Nancy’s sister Geraldine McDonnell, Woodlawn, New Inn, Co. Galway. Geraldine passed away on Wednesday 22nd July; following her Requiem Mass on Saturday she was laid to rest in Killaan cemetery, New Inn.
All-Ireland Final Time
On Sunday it will be another momentous day in Croke Park and a day that we as a community of Ballyleague and Lanesboro will either be there or watching the coverage of the Intermediate Final where local lady Ellen Irwin will line out with Roscommon in the All-Ireland Final at 1.45pm..
Ellen, daughter of James and Dara Irwin, Cloonadra, has been a leading and very prominent member of the Roscommon team for the past few years. Her leadership has played a major role in Roscommon’s march to the final.
We wish Ellen, her teammates and team management the very best of luck on Sunday and we look forward to them bringing another All-Ireland title across the Shannon.
Pictured with Ellen after Roscommon’s semi-final victory are her parents James and Dara andher sister Orla.
Championship Updates
The countdown for St. Faithleach’s is truly on and they will open their championship campaign with a home game in Ballyleague against Castlerea St. Kevin’s on Bank Holiday Sunday 2nd August with an altered throw in time of 7.30pm.
The game has a later than expected throw in time to allow locals travelling to Croke Park for the ladies final to be able to make it back in time to support the team.
Rathcline have a free weekend and they are not back in action until Sunday 9th August where they will travel to Oliver Lynch Park, Abbeylara to play Dromard at 2pm.
Last chance to win a Car or €50,000
The annual Club Longford GAA draw will once again take place on Friday next 31st July. The first prize this year will be a brand new Hyundai Tucson Platinum PHEV or alternatively you can opt for the €50,000 cash prize. 2nd prize is €1,500 sponsored by O’Hara Dolan, N4 Axis Centre, 3rd prize is €1,000 sponsored by Peter Hanley Motors and 4th prize is another €1,000 sponsored by Elgin Energy.
Tickets are on sale in O’Brien’s, they are priced at 1 for €20, 3 for €50, 7 for €100 or 12 for €150.
Cloontuskert Cemetery Mass
The annual Cloontuskert Cemetery Mass will take place on Sunday 9th August at 6pm. A collection will take place on the evening with your contributions going towards the upkeep of the cemetery.
Lanesboro Gun Club
Annual membership is now due for the forthcoming season. Please contact the committee to assist with same.
Clays: Practice continues every Saturday and Sunday. The very best of luck to the teams that are participating in next week’s All Ireland in Esker.
Solstice Choir in Backstage Theatre.
Following on from their huge success in the Roscommon Arts Centre the Roscommon Solstice Choir will present “Songs that Built a Nation” in the Backstage Theatre Longford on Wednesday and Thursday, 9th and 10th September.
With a script by well-known Roscommon Playwright and Historian Tommy Murray the choir will present “Epic moments of Irish History as told in Ballads, Songs, Poems and Music”. Beginning with the United Irishmen Rebellion of 1798 the show tells the story of this traumatic and tumultuous time in our history up to and including the War of Independence 1920/21.
This show which has been described as “a very moving production, which immediately takes its place as one of the outstanding highlights of this choir’s distinguished ‘body of work’ is definitely not to be missed.
Booking. Can be made by telephone to Backstage at: (043) 3347888 or admin@backstage.ie
Book now to secure your place
Echoes of BnM and ESB: The Grand Lanesboro & Ballyleague Reunion
We are endeavouring to make a magical trip down memory lane for all the families that came to Lanesboro and Ballyleague communities when they came to work with Bord na Mona and ESB since the mid 1950’s. We are remembering their parents and all the families that grew up going to school in the all the schools around the three housing estates of The Green, Cloontuskert and Derryhaun. We are also remembering all the families that came to work from all the surrounding parishes. There were also a number of years of apprentices that came to Lanesboro Vocational School now Lanesboro Community College and the committee would love to welcome them back too.
To help with the reconnection of everyone we would like that everyone that reads these notes and that have connections to anyone that comes from the above mentioned families that they would pass the word around of a giant gathering in Lanesboro on Saturday 26th September where we will all reconnect with Bord na Mona and ESB.
It is fitting and a right time to do this as the power station has been closed for seven years now and the Bord na Mona works is rapidly come to its life end and we should all celebrate what both companies and the people that it brought to work here and bring families and former workers back to the community that they made so great.
The organising group is asking you to share the news with old school friends, send vintage photos with names to lanesbororeconnection@gmail.com or drop physical copies into O’Brien’s. It would be made all the better if you could include names of the people in the photographs. Please put your name on anything you leave into O’Brien’s as we want to credit your input and be able to return them to you.
If you wish to scan them yourself you can send then to lanesbororeconnection@gmail.com The committee would love to receive all your memories.
Jumble/Cakes Sought
The annual Jumble/Cake Sale in aid of Crumlin Children’s Hospital will once again take place at Roscommon Agricultural Show on Saturday 15th August. Donations of saleable items, toys, ornaments etc. will be much appreciated. To donate you are asked to contact Bridget by phoning here on 087 9773338.
Rathcline 50/50 Draw
The draw for the club 50/50 draw took place on Monday night last 19th July was for a pool that amounted to €646. The winning ticket was in the name of Mary Flynn, Tullyvrane. 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.
National Heritage Week
As previously mentioned in these notes The Shannonside Heritage Society will be holding a photographic exhibition to coincide with Irish Heritage week, which this year runs from the 15th-23rd August.
The theme this year is ‘Heritage at Risk’ and the exhibition will be held in St Mary’s hall.
We are looking in particular for any old photographs relating to: Bord na Mona, varies versions the Power Station, any domestic bog workings – cutting, harvesting, footing etc., any other photographs relative to other industrial works such as the Quarry, Tomato Farm, Windmill etc. etc.
Also, photographs of any lost buildings, buildings that have changed their use over the years, i.e. shops, pubs, hotels and any photographs of land and areas prior to development.
We are particularly keen to have any pictures that might show the river as a working environment, including any photos of the river banks packed with fishermen and boats as was often the case.
If you have any such photographs that you think will fit nicely with our exhibition then we would ask you to please:
Mark the back of the photograph with your name and phone number so that we can return them to you.
Leave them in an envelope with O’Brien’s Corner Shop marked for the attention of Andrew Knowles at Shannonside Heritage Society.
Thank you to everybody that has submitted a wonderful array of old and historic pictures and memorabilia.
€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 is still a chance that you can be the winner. The next draw takes place on Tuesday 28th July, for the jackpot of €15,000. 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 21st July were 1, 2, 12 and 25. The winner of the €50 prize was Eileen Plested, Ballyleague and the three winners of the €20 prizes were Kasia Kavanagh, Rathcline Road, Bernie Hanley c/o Mags, and Brigid c/o Mags.
The next draw takes place in O’Brien’s for the €15,000 on Tuesday 28th July 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.
St. Faithleach’s Lottery
The St. Faithleach’s bi-weekly lottery draw took place in the clubhouse on Tuesday last 21st July for a jackpot of €2,600 and the numbers drawn were 20, 21, 25 and 27. There was no winner of the jackpot and it will rise to €2,700 for the next draw on Tuesday 4th August 2026. The jackpot will rise to €2,700 for the draw.
Tickets are on sale at local shops and salons – please support.
The Joker still evades the cut
The Joker is on the rise once again and on Saturday night last 25th July the Joker was not cut from the deck of cards and another €100 will be added to the jackpot for next week. The Joker now stands at €3,300 from the remaining 39 cards on Saturday night next 1st August in the St. Faithleach’s clubhouse.
The €100 draw took place and the two winners of last Saturday’s draw winners, 18th July were Martina Dunne and Padraig Kenny.
Be in with your chance to have a cut for the Joker by buying tickets online on the ClubSpot portal St. Faithleach’s, from any of the organising committee or in the clubhouse on Saturday night.
Killashee & Clondra Parish History
The process of collating the historical records of Killashee and Clondra Parish has just begun and the first publication sees a very detailed account of the history of faith in the parish subtitled ‘A History of Faith ‘is now available.
The faith history and records of the parish is phenomenally detailed so much so that the list of the clergy that served both the Church of Ireland and the Roman Catholic Church were comprehensively recorded to the extent that there is a record going back to 1411.
The communities of St. Paul’s Church of Ireland and the Roman Catholic churches of St. Patrick’s (Killashee) and St. Brendan’s (Clondra) has and continues to play a major role in the parish for such a long time.
This book is launched to coincide with a momentous occasion that is presently happening in the parish where Fr. Shea Casey and Fr. Jimmie McDonnell are both celebrating the Golden Jubilee of their ordination into the priesthood.
This Killashee& Clondra Parish – A History of Faith is available in O’Brien’s costing just €25.
One–Day Pilgrimage to Lough Derg
The annual one-day pilgrimage to Lough Derg will take place this year on Sunday 23rd August. The bus will leave Ballyleague at 7am and booking is essential. Bookings can be made by contacting Mary 043 33 21969.
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
Alzheimer Café
The Longford Alzheimer Cafe will provide a safe, warm and welcoming space for people with dementia, their family and friends, along with social and health care professionals to meet and exchange ideas and learnings. For Further information you can contact Eileen on 085 8724475 .The Alzheimer Society of Ireland National Helpline is open six days a week Monday to Friday 10am–5pm and Saturday 10am–4pm on 1800 341 341. and the website is: www.alzheimer.ie
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
Ballinamuck Social Dancing & Community Gathering:
The next Social evening is Sunday 26th July from 5-7 pm in the ’98 Memorial Hall, Ballinamuck Village (N39 Y7C1). The music will be provided by the extremely popular Carmel Mc Loughlin
This is a great opportunity for a dance, a cuppa, and a catch-up with friends old and new – looking forward to welcoming everyone! Newcomers are always welcome!
For more info contact: Aisling 086 3663901
Lanesboro Library
Parent & Toddler Morning
Join us Wednesdays from 11am – 12pm for our weekly parent and toddler morning.
Tea & Coffee provided and plenty of books, toys, and space for the little ones to enjoy. All Enquiries: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie or 0433321291
Ciorcal Comhrá
The Irish Conversation Group that met in the library every Thursday has called a halt to the ‘Comhrá’ for the summer months and the conversations will recommence in September. All enquiries: lanesborolibrary@longfordcoco.ie or 043332129
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
Talk to the Samaritans
Are you struggling to cope with life? Do you think it would be a help to talk about your problem with a member of the Samaritans in total confidence and confidentially? It does not matter who you are, how you feel or what has happened to you, a private chat with the assurance of confidentially can mean a lot. The alternative to getting down is a chat with a member of the Samaritans and that facility is available 24 hours a day 365 days a year so do not hesitate calling the Freephone number 116123 for your support.
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.
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.
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.
Church Gate collection: St. Joseph’s Young Priests Society will hold their Annual Church Gate collection at 6.30pm Mass on Saturday next 1st August and again on Sunday morning 11am Mass 2nd August. Once again you generosity will be greatly appreciated.
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 this Friday 7th August.
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
Caretaker: Liam Garvey is now caretaker of Ballyleague Hall. For all bookings and requests you can contact Liam on 085-1698032
Pioneer Mass: Everyone is invited to join in the special Pioneer Mass that will take place in Ballyleague Church on Friday 7th August at 7pm. At the Mass members, both living and dead, will be remembered. If anyone would like to enrol, receive their silver or gold emblems, they should make contact with Brenda Reynolds (086) 8896969 to ensure that arrangements are finalised and presentations can take place at the Mass.
Annual MSP Priests’ Retreat: Fr. Dan wishes to inform all parishioners hat he will be away from the parish at the annual MSP Priests’ Retreat that takes place from Sunday 26th July until Thursday 30th July at the Star of the Sea Retreat Centre, Mullaghmore. He assures you that you and your family will be in his prayers. For any emergencies you are asked to ring the parish mobile 089 9722625.
Cloontuskert Cemetery Mass: The annual Cloontuskert Cemetery Mass will take place on Sunday 9th August at 6pm. A collection will take place on the evening with your contributions going towards the upkeep of the cemetery.
Kilgefin Cemetery Mass: On Sunday 16th August, Mass will take place in Kilgefin Cemetery at 6pm.A collection will take place with the proceeds going towards the upkeep of the cemetery.
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.
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
Dioceses of Achonry And Elphin Pilgrimage To Lourdes –
Assisted Pilgrim Section: The Dioceses of Achonry and Elphin Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from 28th August – 2nd September inclusive, under the leadership of Bishop Kevin Doran. Pilgrimage highlights includes Mass at the Grotto, Torchlight and Blessed Sacrament Processions, Anointing of the Sick, Water Ceremony. Flights are ex Knock Airport. The Pilgrimage includes the Assisted Pilgrim Section. Those who travel as part of the Assisted Pilgrim Section will stay in Accueil Notre Dame, which is situated near the Grotto and Sanctuary area. They will be cared for by the Diocesan Pilgrimage Care Team whilst in Lourdes. Application forms for the Assisted Pilgrim Section and full details are available from Very Rev. Ray Milton, P.P., Pilgrimage Director, St. John’s, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon. (Tel: 090 666 1115). All other enquiries in relation to the Pilgrimage can be directed to Joe Walsh Tours (JWT) at 016852244 or email info@joewalshtours.ie
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.