Confirmation –

If you are about 12 years or older and would like to be Confirmed in 2012, It is now time to talk to the rector – telephone or talk at church. Four young people have already signed up! Confirmation will take place in Piltown Church on Sunday, 17th June 2012 and classes will begin at the end of February 2012.

Bishop’s Visit –

This Sunday visit when Bishop Michael celebrated Holy Communion and had an opportunity to meet parishioners went very well; there were a few hiccups, which only reminded his Lordship of what parish life can be like! – he misses this part of ordained ministry and takes it all in good humour. Well done to those who made the effort to join him in worship and brought their children to meet him. This is so important and essential to their growth within the Church- keep it up on those Sundays when we do not have a celebrity!

Baptisms, Marriages & Funerals –

By appointment with the Rector only – for weddings, you must make contact more than three months before the proposed date of wedding.

School Applications –

Applications for enrolment in St Mary’s Parochial School, Western Road, Clonmel must be in before 1st March 2012 – to apply telephone the school at 0526127876 and speak to Joan or Ms Wallace.

This is our parochial school, under Church of Ireland management.

Information Evenings –

For many “the diocese” is a faceless entity that “takes our money” and has little relevance to us . In our
diocese we are endeavouring to unite those two entities; The Diocese of Cashel & Ossory and the Diocese of Ferns which form our Bishopric. And, after 800 years or thereabouts, we have it in our sights; very evident in the growing interaction betwen those on the east of the Blackstairs Mts & those on the west!

Our latest venture was two information evenings on the management of property. I have spent almost 20 years working in this area of diocesan life. I sat on the panel in Kilkeeny &, almost a week later, attended the evening in Bunclody, Co Wexford, my “home” country! Others did the same things and we all have got to know each other better and have learned that attendance brings support, interest, friendship and a desire to work together!!!

Grants from the Secondary Education Committee –

This committee operates under the auspices of the Church of Ireland and administers the government block grant granted to “Protestant” secondary schools.

Application under this scheme should be submitted before 28th February 2012 – for further information talk to the school you your child will attend from September 2012 or the Rector.

Select Vestry Meeting –

Next meetings –Tuesday, 6th December 2011 & 12th January 2012 @ 8.00pm in Old St Mary’s.
Please, if you cannot attend phone/email your apology at least 24hrs beforehand to the Secretary.

BAG PACK –

Thank-you to all those who helped with our bag-pack. We raised €800, which is very good indeed!

Thank-you George for encouraging us.

School Board of Management –

Our new Board has met and begun the work we willcontinue to do over the next 4 years.
The Board consists of members in four categories:

1. Patron’s representatives : The Rector & the Rev Canon George Cliffe
2. Teachers: Miss Wallace & Mrs Brennan
3. Parents representatives (elected by parents): Mr Harry Everard & Mrs Susan Luke
4. Community Representatives (usually parishioners) – mrs Viv Levie & Mr Ken Harris

Each member has a specific role on the Board, which spreads the load.
Gender equality is an essential element of composing the Board.

Whist Drive

Whist Drives – The season is progressing well with lots of people enjoying an
evening’s relaxation & social interaction once a month .

Donations of prizes welcome! All welcome!

Friday, 9th December 2011 @ 7.45pm
Friday, 13th January 2011 @ 7.45pm
Friday, 10th February 2011 @ 7.45pm
Friday, 9th March 2011 @ 7.45pm

Retirement of the Town Clerk –

One of the 1st people I encountered when I arrived in Clonmel was Billy Doyle, Town Clerk. During the last, almost, five years we have worked together at trying to improve our historic town walls, promote the town through Walled Town Day, which he so successfully incorporated into Feile Cluain Meala. He is a gentleman with a “gra” for Clonmel that is infectious, a keen eye for opportiunity and an amazing ability for detail. John & I were privileged to be invited to the Civic Reception given in his honour and to be part of the celebrations that followed.

We welcome Mr Ger Walsh, his successor, and wish him well and assure him of our co-operation as he takes up the reins of this historic position in difficult times.

St Mary’s Parochial School –

Happy Christmas to everybody from the Board of Management, Teachers, Joan & pupils of our school, We are looking forward to our school play, which will take place in the GAA Centre, Western Road on Wednesday, 7th December @ 3pm. And most of all, we are looking forward to hte Christmas holidays!!!!!

Free Concert-

St Mary’s Church Senior Choir & Clonmel Writers Group, entertained a full church at Old St Mary's Clonmel, on Thursady, 1st December with wonderful Christmas music, poetry & prose.

Among the offerings from the Writers’ Group were reminisences of worldwide and local events of the past & more recent times, humour and that wonderful sense of what comes from deep within us.

There was no charge, but donations were asked for C.A.R.E. who do so much for htose coping with cancer; especially down in Wellington Street here in Clonmel.

The attendance was treated to Christmasy refreshments afterwards. Thanks George for your help!

Tús –

Our application for Tubrid & Tullaghmeelan is progressing! The participaants at St Paul’s & Kilcommon are doing well!
There are high hopes of guided tours at St Paul’s next Summer! - And tidiness & access at Tubrid.

Safeguarding Trust & Youth Work –

Our triennial evaluation of our panel & our compliance with Safeguarding Trust has taken place and we have a little tidying up to do, but we are compliant.
The membership of the panel will change shortly after new members are vetted by the Gardai & trained. However in those areas where we were questioned about youth work we had mostly blanks. We need volunteers to get some youth activities going. If you are interested in helping set up Sunday School or some other type of activity for our young people, talk to the Rector.

We have the facilities in Clonmel, Cahir & limited facilities in Fethard – we need help, but most of all we need to bring our children together to learn, play and become enthusiastic members of our Church – come on volunteEr, encourage your friends to join you and make our parish a more lively and friendlier place for our young people!

I have been sending text messages reminding parents of the 4th Sunday family service, but I don’t have a mobile number for every family – text me at 0862750735 or email me at frydayb@gmail.com and your family will receive a monthly encouragement to worship!

Glengall Memorial –

The final report went to the Heritage council on 30th November & we hopefully will receive our grant before Christmas. The final figure was just over €8,500.

A lot of money for the repair of an ornamentalkerb.

We now must look to find the balance after the €6,000 grant.

Pidgeons in the Belfry-

Well, not anymore! About ten intrepid parishioners, clad in protective clothing, masks and gloves, braved the heights of the belltower in Old St. Mary’s, shovelled pidgeon “calling cards” out, removed the detrius with wire-brushes and shovels and closed off as many entrances as possible over two Saturdays.

By the time you read this, another posse will have entered the tower and sealed off all entrances and, hopefully, prevented any further quantities of rich manure from being available to mad gardeners.

Congratulations!

To the parishioners of Cahir whose efforts, in this case, particularly the Rev Arthur Carter, has secured the prize, in its category, in the Tidy Burial Grounds Competition. The maintenance of this cemetery is partly funded by the County council, who own it.

Involvement with the Arts Council –

On 18th November, the Arts Council held a daylong choir training day for schools in South Tipperary. The Director of the National Youth Choir came and put about 100 secondary school students through their paces – it poured outside and almost scuppered lunch in town, but inside the dulcet tones and enthusiasm of those teenagers filled the building in a way that was unimmaginable. At 3pm, they sang the three pieces they had toiled at to an appreciative audience form their own schools. It was magical and it is what we should be about. We are going to do more of this!

Select Vestry Meeting –

Next meeting – Wednesday, 30th November 2011 @ 8.00pm in Old St Mary’s, Clonmel

Please, if you cannot attend phone/email/text your apology at least 24hrs beforehand to the secretary.

Singing Group –

Fridays,4th & 25th November – 8pm at Old St Mary’s, Church of Ireland, Clonmel

- New voices are always welcome –whether you want to sit near the organ or not! We practise well known hymns etc and learn new ones

– the addition of bass/alto etc would enhance our efforts!

Confirmation –

If you are about 12 years or older and would like to be Confirmed in 2012, It is now time to talk to the rector – telephone or talk at church.

Four young people have already signed up!

Confirmation will take place in Piltown Church on Sunday, 17th June 2012 and classes will begin at the end of February 2012.

BAG PACK –

This annual fundraiser takes place on Friday, 18th November (6-9pm) & Saturday, 19th November (10am-6pm) in Dunnes Stores, Oakville.

We need to fill all the check-outs.

To book your slot, telephone George at 0868799150

Place 4 U Cafe

Cafe for the active ageing
Venue – Morton Street, Clonmel.
Opening Times --- Monday to Friday ---- 10 am to 12.30 pm

more details on the Parish events page

School Board of Management –

Our Board of the last four years has now completed their term of office.

Our thanks goes to the Rev Arthur Carter, Philip Quigley, Daphne Bain, Vivienne Levie, Roy Johnston and our two teachers, Ms Wallace & Mrs Brennan for their diligence and good management of our school.

At their recent meeting, the parents elected Daphne Bain & Harry Everard to represent them on the new Board. The Rev Arthur Carter has decided not to continue as Bishop's nominee on the new Board and Canon George Cliffe has agreed to take up that position.

Our special thanks goes to the Rev Arthur who with his wide experience of matters educational and his wisdom provided an valuable contribution to discussions on the many matters that confront school boards today. Ken Harris has agreed to represent the wider community & the parish, in particular. The new board will become operational on 1st December 2011.

Quiz Night –

Thank you to all those who took part and did we have fun!

George Barry provided the questions in a different format than usual which made for a more challenging, but better way.

Thank-you againto those who supported us by supplying a vast array of prizes.

Fás –

On 31st December 2011, Fás as we know it will cease to exist and a new entity called Solus will be put in place.

Our Fás participants will continue to be with us under the new arrangement, but it will be more focused on those things FáSs was supposed to be about.

As preparations are put in place for this change, those who have been on such schemes for a lot longer than they should have been are being let-off; a further increase in those who have no longer any useful employment to go to every day.

Free Concert-

The Clonmel Writers Club & St Mary's Senior Choir , for some years, have held a free concert of music, poetry & prose at the Main Guard in Clonmel on the 1st Thursday in December to promote a better awareness of Cancer Care in our community. For a number of reasons, they are moving their venue to Old St Mary's Church.

I hope many of you will support this evening as we try to open Old St Mary's to a wider community. There will be a box or some such container at the back of the church on the night for anybody who might wish to make a donation.

Old St Mary's Church of Ireland, Parish Church, Clonmel, Thursday 1st december 2011

Tús –

This the new government initiative to provide one year's training and work experience for those unemployed.
The candidates are chosen at random from the live register and placed in areas of work in the community for which they either have some experience or an aptitude in a particular area of work that might be available.

Two participants have begun work at Kilcommon cemetery & St Paul's Church, Cahir.

Each will work 19 1/2 hours per week for one year. An application has been made for a participant for Tubrid churchyard, which is in dire need of being cleaned up and having the headstones transcribed onto our database. There is also a possibility of getting some help with Tullaghmeelan church & churchyard.

Services in the Irish Language –

At the recent clergy conference some of us met with Ms Caroline Nolan of Cumann Gaelach na hEaglaise.

She has been employed to encourage dioceses to use the Irish language in worship. For many years, a monthly service as Garilge has been conducted in Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin.

Twenty clergy met with Ms Nolan, recorded simple prayers & responses which will shortly be available to Church members so that they can learn them as a preparation to partaking iinn the services which will shortly be arranged to take place monthly in the cathedrals of our dioocese – there will be one service per month and they will be conducted by one of the team of nine who have volunteered for this new venture.

Select Vestry Meeting –

Next meeting – Tuesday, 18th October 2011 @ 7.30pm in Old St Mary’s. Please, if you cannot attend text/phone/email your apology at least 24hrs beforehand, if possible.

Singing Group –

Fridays, 7th & 28th October - New voices are always welcome –whether you want to sit near the organ or not! We practise well known hymns etc and learn new ones – the addition of bass/alto etc would enhance our efforts! 8pm @ Old St Mary's Church of Ireland Parish Church, Clonmel

Holy Matrimony –

Congratulations to Albert Allison, Dublin, formerly of Dundrum, Co Tipperary & Niamh Dougan who were married in St Patrick’s Church, Inishlounaght (Marlfield) on Saturday, 17th September 2011. Canon Tom Breen officiated, assisted by the Rector.

Confirmation 2012–

If you are about 12 years or older and would like to be Confirmed in 2012, It is now time to talk to the rector – telephone or talk at church. Two young people have already signed up! Some more might help the Bishop to decide to come to us, rather than have us go to Lismore!!!!

Thank-you –

To Bernard Prendergast who has refurbished the Donoughmore graves at Tullaghmeelan and done other much needed jobs in the parish.

We Welcome –

The Rev Dr Stanley Monkhouse to Portlaoise Parish and the Rev Peter Tarleton to Killeshin. Our congratulations & best wishes go to the Rev Maria Jansson, Wexford, as she prepares to move to Waterford as Rector & Dean.

Course in Christian Studies

A diocesan course accredited to NUIM which can be studied as: 1. For one’s own interest 2. Training for Diocesan Readership Beginning September 2012 For further information – ask the Rector!

Butler/Charteris Weekend, Cahir –

This took place on the weekend of 3rd & 4th September 2011 and included a lecture in the castle Great Hall by the Dean of St Patrick’s, Dublin, a tour of the Swiss Cottage, unveiling of plaque to the late Col Charteris at the AFC, town walk and Evenong in St. Paul’s where Jenny Davis sang three pieces by Mendelssohn, Mozart & Handel. There was a very good attendance with descendants of the Col present.

Harvest Thanksgiving, Tullaghmeelan –

This took place on Sunday, 11th September 2011 with the Rev Elaine Murray, Bishop’s Vicar and Curate of Kilkenny preaching. Refreshments were served in the Community Hall, Newcastle – our first parish function there. Thank-you to those who decorated the church so beautifully and did great work in the churchyard.

Sodor & Man Ministry Conference –

The Rector, with two diocesan readers, attended our link diocese’s ministry conference at Lancaster University, England from 19th – 22nd September 2011. We went by ferry and road and did our little bit to strengthen the ties between our two dioceses. We were treated royally, I preached at one of our Eucharists and we learned a lot and got new ideas from the escellent speakers engaged for the conference.

IUNVA Post House –

The Rector took part in the blessing of the Irish United Nations Veteran Association’s new post-house in the Station-Masters House at the raiway station in Clonmel on Sunday, 11th September 2011. Banna Cluain Meala took part.

Quinquennial Inspection & Rural Dean’s Inspection –

Both these inspections took place on Thursday, 17t September 2011. The Diocesan Architect attended at the Rectory and found the house to be in good repair – there are a few jobs to be done, but nothing major. Rev Peter Cole-Baker, acting as Rural Dean, inspected the churches, registers and checked the silver – this took all day. Silver missing since the two thefts has been recorded and will be communicated to Church House.

Flowers & Cleaning –

Please ensure that you pass on the church keys for these activities when your month finishes!

Festival Cluain Meala –

This weekend was a hugwe success and the concert by Banna Cluain Meala with Michael O’Suilleabhain in Old St Mary's was a sell-out (or similar as it was free!!!!)

Select Vestry Meeting –

Next meeting – Tuesday, 18th October 2011 @ 7.30pm in Old St Mary’s, Clonmel. Please, if you cannot attend phone/email your apology at least 24hrs beforehand, if possible.

Whist Drives –

The new season has begun and we had 8 tables plus one in September. Donations of prizes welcome! All welcome! Friday, 14th October 2011 @ 7.45pm Friday, 11th November 2011 @ 7.45pm Friday, 9th December 2011 @ 7.45pm Friday, 13th January 2011 @ 7.45pm Friday, 10th February 2011 @ 7.45pm Friday, 9th March 2011 @ 7.45pm

Envelope Scheme –

A good number of parishoners are now involved in this scheme. It is important that each envelope is filled weekly! – they will be counted periodically and the missing envelopes will be sought. New members of the scheme are very welcome – the more that take part, the less fundraising we will need! Be aware that “special collections” will not be included in your envelope.

Weddings –

At the moment bookings for weddings in St. Patirck’s Church, Inishlounaght for 2011 are reaching their final dates for 2011. There are some bookings for 2012 already in place.

Glengall Memorial –

The work has begun after many delays due to the architect and Heritage requiring different types and quanities of concrete for the foundations. It did seem that one part was trying to increase the costs! The Diocesan Architect was asked to adjudicate on the matter. One post and a few more links have been found and will be repaired by a qualified blacksmith. This project has taken a disproportionate amount of time and energy

Holy Trinity, Fethard –

The re-decoration is complete! What a transformation!! The church looks so much friendlier and warmer. The font is now in a prominent place as it should be. It is now a fit place for worship and the repaired and supplemented heaters work!!!! All we need are people! You will be made most welcome!

Dogs in Burial Grounds –

We have an increasing problem with people walking their dogs in our churchyards for the purpose of those essential daily runs to relieve themselves. This causes offence, it is a health & safety issue, and an inappropriate use of burial grounds. If you must take your dog walkies in a graveyard, bring your scoop and little bag and take your pet’s deposits home with you for disposal. If you find somebody using a churchyard for such purposes, ask them politely to take their pets leavings home with them.

Thank-you –

To the person who organised the mulching of the tree trimmings left at St Mary’s Hall. The Fas workers did a brilliant job spreading the mulch on the flower beds.

Select Vestry Meeting –Next meeting –

Tuesday, 6th September 2011 @ 7.30pm in St Paul’s, Cahir
Bernard Prendergast is our new Secretary.

You received the list of members in your July newsletter. Please, if you cannot attend phone/email your apology at least 24hrs beforehand, if possible (this helps ensure we meet quorum.

Harvest Thanksgiving Preachers:

Tullaghmeelan, 3pm,11th September – The Rev Elaine Murray, Bishop’s Vicar & Curate, Kilkenny
St Paul’s, Cahir, 7.30pm 25th September - The Rev William Montgomery, Presbyterian Church
St Mary’s, Clonmel, 7.30pm 30th September – Very Rev Brendan Canon Crowley PP

Holy Trinity, Fethard, 2nd October – Rev Alec Purser, Non-Stipendiary, Abbeyleix

Singing Group –

Friday, 2nd & 16th September & Friday, 7th October at Old St Mary's Church of Ireland, Mary St. Clonmel - New voices are always welcome –whether you want to sit near the organ or not!

We practise well known hymns etc and learn new ones
– the addition of bass/alto etc would enhance our efforts!

PARISH BAG PACK

THIS WAS A BIG SUCCESS LAST YEAR!!

Friday, 18th November 2011
6.00 – 9.00pm
..........................
Saturday, 19th November 2011
10.00am – 6.00pm

Book you slot with George Now!!!!!

Christmas Fair –

Saturday, 17th December 2011, more details to follow

Glengall Memorial –

Progress is being made in our efforts to complete repairs of this
monument within the amount of the grant awarded to us be the Heritage Council. The Butler/Charteris family’s contribution to the life of Cahir will be celebrated during Heritage Week; last week in August. There will be a weekend of lectures, events at the Swiss Cottage, Castle & in Cahir town on the weekend of 2ND/4TH September. Descendants of the family will visit and the weekend will end with Evensong in St Paul’s Church @ 5.00pm on Sunday 4th September.

St Paul’s, Cahir –

As a result of the constant vandalism at St Paul’s Church of Ireland, Cahir, cameras have been installed. The installation was not complete when two were stolen and
the system damaged. However, unknown to the culprit, the camera directly over him as he climbed the drainpipe was working and the matter is not in the hands of the Gardai.
Efforts are being made to enable the restoration and conservation of the surround at the Glengall Memorial in the churchyard.

The Bring & Buy in June yielded €660 for the restoration fun.

AA further sale is planned for the Autumn/Winter.

CONCERTS in OLD ST MARY’S

CONCERTS in OLD ST MARY’S (St Mary's Church of Ireland Parish Church Mary St. Clonmel)

Friday, 26th August @ 7.00pm
Miceal O’Suilleabhan & Banna Cluain Meala (free)
.............
Thursday, 29th September @ 8.00pm
Kelly Lonergan (piano & violin) & Friends
............................
Tuesday, 25th October
Ccatherine Leonard (violin) & Hugh Tinney (piano)

Kilbehenny Burials –

The village of Kilbehenny is part of our vast parish and I went there in July to verify the continued care of some burials on the site of the former Church of Ireland church there. The church was demolished some years ago and the local community continue to honour their commitment to maintaining two sites in the grounds of their Community centre.

Walled Town Day Clonmel

Clonmel – Walled Town Day is celebrated as part of Festival Cluain Meala from
26th – 28th August 2011 – the programme will be:-

Friday, 26th –7.00pm – Concert by Miceal O’Suilleaban & Banna Cluain Meala
In Old St. Mary’s followed by
9.00pm – Leaving Old St Mary’s and following a route, visiting 5
“alehouses” to be entertained by storytellers, comedians and
Music, this medieval walk should provide a further educational
& fun time – both events are free!!
Sat, 27th - 6.00pm - A dramatised recollection of the Siege of Clonmel
7.00pm- Medieval Banquet in Gordon Place carpark complete with
archery, jousting, music and other medieval delights – Banquet €25
per head – tickets from museum or Rector.
Sunday, 28th - 2-5pm – A Festival of Food, Crafts and Music in the Sarsfield Street
area of town

Whist Drives –

The new season will begin on Friday, 9th September 2011
@ 7.45pm School hall across the road from Old St. Mary's, Church of Ireland Parish Church, Mary St, Clonmel

Donations of prizes welcome! All welcome!
Friday, 14th October 2011 @ 7.45pm
Friday, 11th November 2011 @ 7.45pm
Friday, 9th December 2011 @ 7.45pm
Friday, 13th January 2011 @ 7.45pm
Friday, 10th February 2011 @ 7.45pm
Friday, 9th March 2011 @ 7.45pm

Holy Trinity, Church of Ireland, Fethard –

The transformation is nearing completion! Two new heaters have been
installed and the older ones repaired and working. The interior is undergoing a complete and thorough redecoration – there is a change to a warmer colour and defects in the walls have been repaired. The flower tubs along the driveway have given the grounds a lift and the continuing interest and their willingness to give of their time and energy is adding a new feel to life in this part of our parish.
The font will be moved in the coming weeks to a new location near the back of the church where this symbol of Baptism and our entry into the life of the Christian faith will be given the prominent place it should have.

Holy Trinity, Church of Ireland, Fethard –

The transformation is nearing completion! Two new heaters have been
installed and the older ones repaired and working. The interior is undergoing a complete and thorough redecoration – there is a change to a warmer colour and defects in the walls have been repaired. The flower tubs along the driveway have given the grounds a lift and the continuing interest and their willingness to give of their time and energy is adding a new feel to life in this part of our parish.
The font will be moved in the coming weeks to a new location near the back of the church where this symbol of Baptism and our entry into the life of the Christian faith will be given the prominent place it should have.

TABLE QUIZ

Thursday, 1st September 2011
The Phoenix Bar, Clonmel
Table of 4 - €20
In aid of the Parochial Hall Restoration

Flowers & Cleaning –

Please ensure that you pass on the church keys for these activities when your month finishes!

Break- in at Tullaghmeelan –

The break-in with the loss of the chalice & flagon at Tullaghmeelan Church was shocking. The thief/thieves broke in sometime between the end of worship on 14th August & Wednesday, 17th inst. The Gardai have been very helpful and we await the result of the fingerprint test. Part of the porch window was broken, however it is not clear where entry was gained damaging the door in order to release the catch or whether a key was used. No other damage or disruption was caused. The thief/thieves appear to have walk straight to the vestry and walked out again with the silver

Whist Drives –

The new season will begin on Friday, 9th September 2011 @ 7.45pm Hall across he road from Old St. Mary's Church of Ireland Parish Church, Clonmel.
Donations of prizes welcome! All welcome!

Christmas Fair –

This will take place Saturday, 17th December 2011. Full details to follow.

Table Quiz –

Our Table Quiz has been arranged for the 1st September 2011 in, Clonmel.
Be there!! – for Restoration of the Parochial Hall.

Concert –

Holy Trinity, Church of Ireland Parish Church, Fethard on 19th August 2011.

South Tipperary General Hospital –

As concern grows about the future of our hospital, a number of committees comprising staff & locals are making progress on a number of projects. The End of Life Committee who seek to make the care of dying patients & their families a better experience that would have been the case in the past have redecorated & up-graded the family room where family can spend quiet time together. The next area to be improved will be the mortuary. To this end, we will have a special collection in all our churches on Remembrance Sunday.
Other committees are seeking to improve conditions in other areas

St Paul’s, Cahir –

As a result of the constant vandalism at St Paul’s camers have been installed. The installation was not complete when two were stolen and the system damaged. However, unknown to the culprit, the camera directly over him as he climbed the drainpipe was working and the matter is now in the hands of the Gardai.

Efforts are being made to enable the restoration and conservation of the surround at the Glengall Memorial in the churchyard.

The Bring & Buy in June yielded €660 for the restoration fund.
A further sale is planned for the Autmn/Winter.

Glengall Memorial –

This structure surmounts the Butler/charteris vault at St Paul’s Church of Ireland Parish Church, Cahir. The surrounding kerb was vandalised some time ago and it is hoped that with the original costings being reviewed it will be restored fully in the short time.

Junction Festival –

This annual event in Clonmel has just closed and was, once again, a great success; bringing life to the town. The concert which was held in Old St Mary’s, Church of Ireland Parish Church, Clonmel, on 9th July.
The choir, which had come together and practised for just two weeks, was, once again, wonderful.
Those who attended thoroughly enjoyed their fantastic music.

Weddings –

At the moment bookings for weddings in St. Patirck’s Church, Inishlounaght for 2011 are at their maximum.
There are some bookings for 2012.

Assessment 2012 -

We are expecting an increase in Assessment due for 2012 (further details from rector) – the rise is due to the diocese’s extra expense of providing locomotory expenses for retired clergy & lay readers for vacancies & leave of absence for some clergy and poor investment income returns. This must be raised to enable you to have a Rector.
Be aware that “special collections” will not be included in your envelope.

Select Vestry Meeting –

Next meeting – Tuesday, 6th September 2011 @ 7.30pm in St Paul’s, Cahir – Bernard Prendergast is our new Secretary. You received the list of members in your last newsletter. Please, if you cannot attend phone/email your apology at least 24hrs beforehand, if possible as a quorum has to be met for the meeting to proceed.

Ordinations –

Rev Alec Purser was ordained priest in Abbeyleix & Helen Oxley was ordained deacon in Bagnalstown to serve in the parishes in which they were ordained. A furhter ordination will take place in Enniscorthy during this month.

Parish BBQ

26th June – It was a wonderful day – the sun shone, the pets behaved themselves and everybody enjoyed the BBQ. Thank-you to those who helped in many way – carrying chairs, tables, those who evicted the pigeons from the hall and cleaned it, those who provided food, the ingredients for the hamper & raffle, everybody who took part in the raffle and Stephen who organised a quiz (what did he & and case of wine weigh – the prize being; the case of wine!). We have decided that this will be an annual event!. And we raised €700 for the restoration of our hall.

Bereavement –

We offer our sympathy to Margaret Hogg & her family on the death of her mother, Mary O’Brien.

We were all shocked by the sudden death of Liam Clooney, beloved husband of Shirley, (Rector’s churchwarden in Clonmel) and father of Stuart, Natalie & Adam and Grand Dad of Adam. We offer our sympathy and support to them.

Rinee Emily May Wood died peacefully after an illness. We offer our sympathy to her daughter Heather Burcher & son, Clive and their families. Cremation followed a service at the Island, Cork.

Joseph Lloyd Harden (Joe to those of us who knew him here and “Paddy” to his Dublin friends) died after an illness on 30th June 2011 and his Funeral Service took place in St Paul’s, Cahir on 4th July 2011. Burial took place in the family plot at Kilcommon. We offer our sympathy to his nieces and cousin.

Ronald James Dawson died after a long illness borne with fortitude and patience on 9th July 2011. He served his parish and community; a member of the Select Vestry & Treasurer and a Rotarian of some note well. He was a devoted and loving husband to Frances and father to Rosemary & Ann. his funeral service, which he wrote himself, took place in Old St. Mary’s on 12th July in the presence of a large congregation. Burial took place at Inishlounaght. To Frances, Ann & Rosemary, his brother, sisters and the wider family we offer our sincere sympathy.

May the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace.

Holy Baptism –

Rhys John Hannigan-Smith was baptised in Old St. Mary’s, Clonmel on Sunday, 10th July 2011 in the presence of family and friends. His older brother Ewan Micahel Hannigan-Bain was received into the Church. Mmay they both grow in the knowledge and love of the Lord

Singing Group –

Friday, 24th June, 15th July & 19th August in Old St. Mary’s Church of Ireland Clonmel @ 8.00pm. New voices are always welcome –whether you want to sit near the organ or not! We practise well known hymns etc and learn new ones.

SUNDAY, 26th JUNE –

Bring along your pet/s to our outdoor Blessing of Animals at Old St. Mary’s, Clonmel, Church of Ireland parish Church, Mary St. Clonmel and stay for the BBQ & sale – please bring a desert or salad – phone or email offers of food to the Rector – proceeds to our Hall fund - €5 per person – all welcome

SELECT VESTRY MEETING –

Next meeting – Tuesday, 6th September 2011 @ 8.00pm in St Paul’s Church, Cahir –
SV Members - Caroline Quaid, Joan Bridge, Bob Savage, Mary Cunningham,
John Chamney, Bernard Prendergast, Audrey Duncan, Alan Harte, Pearl O’Keeffe, BettyKing, Di, Stokes,Olive White, Hilary Carter, Yvonne McClintock, Jens Buchwald, Mark Tarleton, Thelma Griffiths, Heather Bailey, George Hogg, Vivienne Levie & Shirley Clooney & Ken Harris.

ST PAUL’S Cahir BRING & BUY –

Sunday, June, 5th, in the Butler/Charteris Hall beside St Paul’s Church, Cahir early afternoon

CONGRATULATIONS –

To Tyron Botes & Yvonne Drake who were married in Old St Mary’s on Saturday, 21st May.

Bereavement –

We sympathise with Margaret Hogg and her family on the death of her mother .May the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace.

Select Vestry Meeting –

Next meeting – Tuesday, 24th May 2011 @ 7.30pm in Holy Trinity, Fethard

Full listing of Select Vestry members for Clonmel Union of Parishes 2011-2012 at the bottom of this page

Singing Group –

Friday, 20th & 27th of May in Old St. Mary's, Church of Ireland, Parish Church, Clonmel @ 8.00pm. New voices are always welcome –whether you want to sit near the organ or not! We practise well known hymns etc and learn new ones.

Welcome! –

Memphis Salome Buchwald, daughter of Jens & Nadja and baby sister to Tristan, Daphne, Gideon & Caleb.

Bereavement –

We sympathise with Wendy, Holly & Alexander Broomfield on the death of Edward at Easter after a long illness bravely borne. Cremation took place in Cork.

Henry John (Harry) Cleeve died on 2nd April in his 104th year. His was a full and long life lived in Glenconner, Clonmel and, later, at Gowran Glebe, Co Kilkenny. He was laid to rest beside his late wife, Olive, at Inishlounaght after a Funeral Service in St Patirck’s church on 28th April 2011.

May the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace.

Schools’ Festival Service –

The Service for this year in Cashel, Waterford & Lismore area of our diocese will take place in Cashel Cathedral on Friday, 10th June @ 11.00am

Flowers & Cleaning –

Please ensure that you pass on the church keys for these activities at the end of your Month :-)

Envelope Scheme –

Our new “envelope scheme” has got off to a very encouraging start with an increase already in the numbers over our old scheme. Those who take part in this effort to help people plan their giving and to realise that they have a part ot play even when absent will fill an envelope each week, whether in church or not.
We are going to assume that people have sat down and planned their giving and that what is put into the 1st envelope is what will be given each week.
You may decide to include your Assessment in your calculation, but you need to write on your 1st envelope which part of giving your envelope represents – this will enable us to distribute your giving among the areas of giving – collections, Assessment.
New members of the scheme are very welcome – the more that take part, the less fund raising we will need!

Concert –

On Saturday, 21st May in Old St. Mary’s, Church of Ireland, Parish Church, Clonmel -
“I hear you calling me”; an evening of John McCormack music.
We are now back on the Classical Links itinerary

Holy Trinity, Fethard –

The dendrochronology event will take place this month – this involves the removal of a sample piece of wood from the old roof of Holy Trinity Fethard, so that it might be dated.

Weddings –

At the moment bookings for weddings in St. Patirck’s Church, Inishlounaght for 2011 are almost at their maximum. There are already bookings for 2012.

St Paul’s Cahir, Bring & Buy –

This annual event is planned for Sunday the 5th June 2011, in the afternoon. It is always a great success, but it does need everybody’s support.

Whist Drives –

The season was a great success with new players and increased numbers.

This is a valuable means of fundraising and assists with paying our Assessment.

Special thanks goes to Bob & Ann Savage, Aileen Acheson, Jimmy Kingston and all those who provide prizes, supper, and support us with their presence.

And of course a big thank you all those who have attended and enjoyed an evening of social cards.

Walled Towns –

As we have three such towns in South Tipperary, we have been allowed celebrate on different weekends in August;

Cashel – early August

Fethard – Sunday, 21st August

Clonmel – Friday/Saturday 26/27th August combined with Festival Cluain Meala
going into Sunday, 28th August.

Course in Christian Studies –

This course in future will provide the necessary requirement for progress to selection for training for ministry & entry into the Theological Institute. It is also the course for training for diocesan reader or a vehicle for furthering one’s interest in learning about our faith, the Bible & worship.

After a year’s work, a working group has developed the new course for the training of diocesan readers & a course that will be equal to the Foundation Course; required for entry into training for ministry.

The current belief that potential ordinands must have already attained a university degree before consideration for training for ministry is a myth that has been circulating around the C of I for the last few years and has put potential candidates off.

This course is accredited to NUI Maynooth, presented by our own bishop & diocesan clergy under the guidance of the Adult Education Officer & the Warden of Readers – we have & are writing the course ourselves.

Singing Group –

Tues, 12th April in Old St. Mary’ @ 8.00pm. New voices are always welcome –whether you want to sit near the organ or not! We practise well known hymns etc and learn new ones.

Select Vestry Meeting –

Next meeting – Tuesday, 5th April 2011 @ 7.00pm in the Rectory – main item on the agenda will be the 2010 accounts.

Easter 2011

Easter 2011 – The Rev Dr Richard Buxton, retired assistant Warden of St Deniol’s
Library, Hawarden, Wales (Gladstone’s Library) will be with us during Holy Week this year. The Bishop has requested that we celebrate Holy Week and Easter in a special way Easter is the most important Festival of the Church Year – without Easter we would have no Christian faith

I hope as many of you as possible will take part in as much of this celebration of Easter as possible. I also hope that parents will bring their children to as much as possible. It is important that they experience the life & worship of the Church into which they have been baptised as possible.
Easter is the time of Baptism and the Baptism of an adult or child at the Easter Vigil would give true meaning to our celebrations.

Palm Sunday, 17th April – The Way of the Cross – in Old St Mary’s Churchyard @
11.00am – Children & Adults will make banners representing the
14 points in the story of Jesus’ Passion, Death & Resurrection
during Lent.

This series of readings & prayers will be followed by a Celebration of Holy Communion in the church – in the event of inclement weather the complete Service will take place indoors.

Monday, 18th April – Service of Compline in St. Paul’s, Cahir @ 8.00pm

Tuesday, 19th April – Service of Evening Prayer in Holy Trinity, Fethard @ 8.00pm

Wednesday, 20th April – Service for Spy Wednesday in Tullaghmeelan Church at 8pm

Thursday, 21st April – Celebration of Holy Communion for Maundy Thursday in Old St
Mary’s @ 8.00pm – this will include the washing of feet –
volunteers, pleasr!

Friday, 22nd April – Good Friday – Liturgy in St Paul’s, Cahir @ 9.30am

Liturgy in Old St Mary’s @ 12.00noon - “The Seven Last Words” – this series of readings, prayer & music lasts 3 hours & people are welcome to attend for the duration or to come & go during that time – this liturgy represents the 3 hours Jesus was on the cross.

Liturgy in Holy Trinity, Fethard @ 8.00pm
Saturday, 23rd April – Easter Eve – Ecumenical lighting of the Paschal Candle at Old St Mary’s followed by the Easter Vigil with renewal of Baptismal Vows & Holy Communion and Night Watch – the latter part lasts until the last person goes home!


Sunday, 24th April – Easter Day – 8.30am – HC – Old St Mary’s, Clonmel
9.30am – HC – St Paul’s, Cahir
9.30 am- HC - Holy Trinity, Fethard
11.00am –HC – Old St Mary’s, Clonmel

General Easter Vestry & Triennial Elections –

Will take place in Old St Mary’s Church of Ireland, Clonmel, on Thursday, 28th April 2011 @ 7.30pm

Bring & Buy –

This annual event is planned for the 1st Sunday in June, in the
afternoon. It is always a great success, but it does need everybody’s
support.

Whist Drives –

These take place on the 2nd Friday of each month in the Sisters of Charity
School hall, across the road from Old St. Mary's Church of Ireland, Clonmel. It is a great night of fellowship in the relaxed atmosphere of a
game of whist.
Friday, 8th April @ 7.45pm
Friday, 15th April - @ 7.45pm – Meals on Wheels

Sharing with & Resourcing Others –

The Rector, as Diocesan Warden of readers, recently facilitated an evening with diocesan readers & the Rev Canon Liz Beasley, bishop’s Assistant, Hawaii. She was here in Ireland to learn about how we train people for ministry as they have done very little since Hawaii was evangelised in the 1860s. We all learned a lot!

Installation of Canons –

The Rector was installed as Treasurer of St. Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny on Wednesday,15th March @ 3.30pm.
The Rector of Abbeyleix was installed as Chancellor and the Deans of Leighlin & Waterford were installed as Canons.

Holy Trinity Fethard–

The mesh grids are now in place on all the church windows and the “vestry” window that was destroyed in the 2009 break-in has been replaced.

World Day of Prayer –

This took place in St. Oliver’s Church this year on 4th March. The service was written by the women of chile. It was well attended and the church choir led the singing. It was good that parishes outside Clonmel Urban area are now involved in this annual ecumenical venture.

Study Evening –

Wednesday, 13th April @ 8.00pm in the Rectory, the Rev James
Mulhall, will lead an evening of study on St Matthew’s gospel. This is the gospel we are reading this year. James is a talented teacher. Please support this evening!

Concert –

On Friday, 25th March Old St. Mary’s, Church of Ireland, Clonmel was packed for Kelley Lonergan’s “exhibition” recital. She was joined by Mum, Derek Ryan 9Baritone) and
friends in a memorable evening of wonderful music.

Drop in Coffee morning –

Saturday, 16th April 2011 – just drop into the Rectory for a cuppa, scone & a chat from 10.30am – 12noon. Donations to the Hall Restoration Fund

Envelope Scheme –

Our new “envelope scheme” has got off to a very encouraging start with an increase already in the numbers over our old scheme. Those who take part in this effort to help people plan their giving and to realise that they have a part to play even when absent will fill an envelope each week, whether in church or not.

We are going to assume that people have sat down and planned their giving and that what is put into the 1st envelope is what will be given each week.
You may decide to include your Assessment in your calculation, but you need to write on your 1st envelope which part of giving your envelope represents – this will enable us to distribute your giving among the areas of giving – collections, Assessment.
Be aware that “special collections will not be included in your envelope.

Safeguarding Trust –

The latest newsletter explains who should be contacted by the Parish Panel in the event of an incident or suspicion of an incident of abuse of minors coming to the knowledge of the Parish Panel. The members of the Parish Panel in this parish are :
The Rector: Tel 052 6187464/086-2750735
Mrs Suzanne Mulhall: Tel 051 646984
Mr John Chamney Tel 0862455739
If you suspect that a child (anybody under 18 years of age) has/is being abused on Church property, the appropriate action is to speak to a member of the Panel who will then follow the appropriate procedure.

Schools’ Festival Service –

The Service for this year in Cashel, Waterford & Lismore area of our diocese will take place in Cashel Cathedral on Friday, 11th June @ 11.00am

Sunday Life –

Every Sunday morning @ 7.00am, presented by clergy of South Tipperary
– music, readings & meditation.

Baptisms, Marriages & Funerals –

For any of these events to take place in any of the Churches within Clonmel Union of Parishes you must arrange by appointment with the Rector – for weddings please remember the legal requirement is that you must make contact more than three months before the proposed date of wedding.

Bereavement –

We sympathise with the family of Sara Fennell, a faithful and devout Church member, who died peacefully after a long illness borne with Chrisitan fortitude and faith. She rested in St. Paul’s Church, Cahir, where she was a regular and active member of the congregation, on the night of 26th March, and her funeral Service took place in Old St. Mary’s on the following day. The full church was testimony to the high esteem in which she was held. Burial took place in St Patrick’s churchyard, Inishlounaght. May she rest in peace.

General Easter Vestry & Triennial Elections –

Will take place in Old St Mary’s on Thursday, 28th April 2011 @ 7.30pm

Select Vestry Meeting –

Next meeting – Tuesday, 5th April 2011 @ 7.00pm in the Rectory – main item on the agenda will be the 2010 accounts.

Bereavement –

We extend our sincere sympathy to Patricia Lalor and her family on the sudden death of her father.

Singing Group –

Wednesday, 9th March & Friday 18th March in Old St. Mary’ @ 8.00pm. New voices are always welcome –whether you want to sit near the organ or not! We practise well known hymns etc and learn new ones.

Schools’ Festival Service –

The Service for this year in Cashel, Waterford & Lismore area of our diocese will take place in Cashel Cathedral on Friday, 11th June @ 11.00am

Drop in Coffee morning –

Saturday, 16th April 2011 – just drop into the Rectory for a cuppa, scone & a chat from 10.30am – 12noon. Donations to the Hall Restoration Fund.

Holy Trinity Fethard –

The parishioners of Holy Trinity Fethard have now repaired the heater & replaced some slates on the roof. They will now place capping on the roof, which was not done at the time of re-roofing, complete the placement of grids on all windows and redecorate the church.

The repair & provision of two more heaters will be funded from the donation received from the film company and will just about be sufficient to complete this part of the project. The remainder will be funded by the Wyndham Bequest. The Select Vestry has approved these expenditures.

Concert Old St Mary's Clonmel (Church of Ireland) –

On Friday, 25th March 2011, Kelly Lonergan & friends will perform in Old St.
Mary’s @ 8.00pm – She will be joined by Mum, Derek Ryan and others in a
concert of classical music.Kelly is completing her training on piano and has
played in Old St. Mary’s in the past. Tickets are be on sale @ €10 from the
rector, & Marian’s in O’Connel St.

Installation of Canons –

The Rector will be installed as Treasurer of St. Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny on Wednesday,15th March @ 3.30pm.
The Rector of Abbeyleix will be installed as Chancellor.

Weddings –

At the moment bookings for weddings in St. Patirck’s Church, Inishlounaght for 2011 are almost at their maximum. There are already bookings for 2012.

St Paul’s, Cahir –

In spite of there being almost no grants from the Heritage Council this year, we have been granted a substantial sum towards the repair of the Glengall memorial at St Paul’s. It will require matching funds and we hope the family concerned may assist us.

Bring & Buy –

This annual event is planned for the 1st Sunday in June, 5th, in the afternoon. It is always a great success, but it does need everybody’s support.

Select Vestry Meeting –

Next meeting – Tuesday, 1st March 2011 @ 7.00pm in the Rectory – main items on Agenda finance & repairs to Rectory following water damage.

Singing Group –

Friday 25th February & Wednesday, 9th March in Old St. Mary’ @ 8.00pm. New voices are always welcome –whether you want to sit near the organ or not! We practise well known hymns etc and learn new ones.

Flowers & Cleaning –

The response to our appeal for the setting up of a cleaning rota and filling the flower rota at Old St. Mary’s has been really good. We have a few vacancies – and really the more the merrier because the amount needing to be done by each person will be less – if you have not volunteered, please do so! Participation does give a better sense of belonging and encourages everybody to work better for their Church.

World Day of Prayer (formerly The Womens World Day of Prayer) –

will be held in St Olivers Church, Elmpark on Friday, 5th March at 8.00pm.
All welcome!
This year’s Service has been produced by the women of Chile.

Drop in Coffee morning –

We have not had one of these for some time for all sorts of reasons. Our next one will be when the redecoration & repairs made necessary by the flooding of the rectory have been completed.

Tourist s

The county Council has placed a “Tourist Information” board at the entrance to holy Trinity, Fethard. 100 such plaque are being erected around the country at the moment. The plaques at Old St Mary’s are to be replaced and one will be placed at the Anne Street gate.

Holy Trinity Fethard –

The parishioners of Fethard have decided to complete their project of placing
protective grids on Holy Trinity’s windows. They have also now completed the
conditions of our financial arrangements in the union of parishes.

Whist Drives –

These take place on the 2nd Friday of each month in the Sisters of Charity School hall across the road from Old St. Mary's Church of Ireland, Clonmel. It is a great night of fellowship in the relaxed atmosphere of a game of whist.
Friday, 11th February @ 7.45pm
Friday, 11th March @ 7.45pm
Friday, 8th April @ 7.45pm

Preaching –

The Rector, as a member of the Chapter of St. Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny will preach in the cathedral on Sunday, 27th February @ 11.30am.

Concert at Old St. Mary's Church of Ireland, Clonmel –

On Friday, 25th March 2011, Kelly Lonergan & 7 friends will perform in Old St.
Mary’s Church of Ireland, Mary St, Clonmel @ 8.00pm

– Kelly is completing her training on piano and has played in Old St. Mary’s in the past.

Tickets will be on sale @ €10.

Installation of Canons –

The Rector will be installed as Treasurer of St. Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny on Wednesday, 2nd March @ 3.30pm.
The Rector of Abbeyleix will be installed as Chancellor.

Parking at Old St. Mary’s –

Curves fitness centre have reserved parking spaces in the churchyard. We receive a substantial donation from them. Please do not park in those spaces.
We don’t make much use of our churchyard outside service times and businesses like this do help with funding the day-to-day maintenance & overhead expenses of our parish.

Weddings –

At the moment the bookings for weddings at St. Patirck’s Church, Inishlounaght for 2011 are almost at their maximum.
There are already bookings for 2012.

Select Vestry Meeting –

Next meeting – Tuesday, 18th January 2011 @ 7.00pm in the Rectory – main items on Agenda finance & repairs to Rectory following water damage.

Singing Group –

Friday 21st January & 4 February in Old St. Mary’s, Church of Ireland, Clonmel @ 8.00pm. New voices are always welcome –whether you want to sit near the organ or not! We practise well known hymns etc and learn new ones.

Sunday Life –

The programme planned for Christmas Day did not happen because some of us were unwell, I had lost my voice, and there were too few to achieve the
whole purpose of the planned programme.
The Rector did regain her voice in time to record the programme for 2nd January 2011

Flowers & Cleaning –

The response to our appeal for the setting up of a cleaning rota and filling the flower rota at Old St. Mary’s has been really good. We have a few vacancies – and really the more the merrier because the amount needing to be done by each person will be less – if you have not volunteered, please do so! Participation does give a better sense of belonging and encourages everybody to work better for their Church.

Easter 2011 –

The bishop has asked us to celebrate Easter in a special was this year. The Rev Dr Richard Buxton, Wales will be coming to us in Holy Week to pray and meditate with us. On Palm Sunday we will have a central service & we will, weather permitting, hold a “Way of the Cross” around the walls of Old St Mary’s – banners etc will be made by children & adult of the parish.

Diocesan Magazines –

Eleven publications appear every year and cost €30 for that period.

Each parish has a section and it is a great way to keep up with happening in the wider Church & the diocese. If you would like to receive it, contact the Rector with your €30 before 20th November 2010. As the spares have rarely been used, they have not been ordered this year.

The December issue was very late as the courier who delivers them was unable to get out of the seaside resort of Courtown Harbour because of the snow and ice!

If you have not given the rector your subscription for the magazine, please do so soon!

Church of Ireland Gazzete –

This publication is published weekly and is but one of three such weekly magazines within the Anglican Communion. It keeps members up to date with what is going on on our island. It arrives, usually every Thursday, except for two editions in July/August. Subscription is €40 per annum (includes postage of bundle)– orders are teken by the Rector & subscriptions for those who already receive it are now due.

Christmas Day –

The weather wasn’t quite as awful as last year, but it was really cold.

It was so cold, it was impossible to heat old buildings.

The attendance in St Paul’s was small on Christmas eve. This wasn’t surprising as driving conditions were not good and temperaures were as low as -11C.

I Really admired those who got up and braved the cold for the early Service in old St Mary’s!

The journey to Fethard wasn’t as bad as I anticipated, but the gas boiler had frozen at the church. The congregation was the largest for some years and we really did “draw close” – as close as could, in the sanctuary, choir and at the front of the church. We didn’t delay. I hope it won’t put people off coming more often in future.

Old St Mary’s had an average Christmas days attendance, and the spirit was good.

Afterwards the Rector visited 3 people in the hospital.

During the previous week she brought holy Communion to those who are visited and receive Holy Communion at home during the year.

On St Stephen’s morning I drove to Tullaghmeelan feeling Spring had come.
The -11C of the day before had changed to + 8, and at one point for about a kilometre it was +9! The numbers in Tullaghmeen were small – it is always a challenge to get people to go to church two days running!!

Vacancies –

As we begin 2011, there are some changes in our diocesan clergy.

Canon Nancy Gillespie, former Rector of Stradbally, Co Laois, has taken up duty as Priest-in-Charge of Killeshin.

The Rev Hilary Dungan will leave Portlaoise Parish for pastures new at the end of February and The Rev JP Kavangh, former Rector of Kells, has taken up duty a chaplain in DIT.

Please pray for these parishes as they experience change and pray also for the Boards of Nomination who will meet in the coming months to appoint new Incumbents.

Kids Club

Our next Youth event will be announced shortly.
Once again each child will get notice. (if you are not on the rectors list please make contact)
Thank-you, parents for your support and it is so lovely that so many of you are interested in your children taking part.
Of course our dates won’t suit everybody and that can’t be helped.

Some more offers of doing the safeguarding trust course necessary and the garda vetting etc towards being a youth worker would be so welcome!

The more qualified youth workers we have the more flexible our event dates can become.

Drop in Coffee morning –

Our next one will be when the redecoration & repairs made necessary by the flooding of the rectory (after the thaw)have been completed.

Re-ordering of Old St Mary's –

I hope that in 2011 we will learn to sit closer together and
nearer the celebrant or the person conducting worship. It takes a bit of getting used to when we have traditionally sat in the same pew for years. In the past people did sit in “family pews which they “bought” and maintained.

We are supposed to be worshipping together and it was never intended, especially by Cranmer, that the celebrant at Holy Communion should be separate, “high and lifted up behind rails” or remote from the congregation. He brought the Holy Table to the centre of the aisle around which all were to gather. The rails & the Holy Table against the East wall became the norm in the 17th century in order to keep the pet dogs of the faithful away from the bread & wine!

Please do what Cranmer’s BCP liturgy says “Draw near to receive the body of our Lord Jesus Christ......................”

New publication –

We look forward to the publication of the Rev Iain Knox’s latest updating of the succession of clergy.
When his update of that of Cashel & Emly appears in print, the succession of clergy up to very recent years will be complete.

Much credit is due to him & his friend the Rev David Crooks for their contribution to this massive task. These lists can never be truly complete and will always be a work in progress.

Flower Arrangement Demonstration –

In spite of bad weather and its consequences, the proceeds of the night came to €500.

A huge thank-you is due to Heather Bailey and her helpers for all her efforts and for the lovely supper.

Bag Pack –

Like the flower demo, this was a success and thanks is due to George Hogg
who organised it, right down to our hi-vis jackets which will be handy in the
future.
€2,200 was raised for our hall restoration fund and another bag-pack is
planned for the same time this year.

More participants will bring in a large amount. It is a great way to profile our Church & to meet lots of lovely people.

Holy Baptism –

Recbecca Imogen Hislop, daughter of Owen & Wendy and sister of George, Alice, William & Peter and grand-daughter of David & Mary, was baptised by the Rector in Tullaghmeelan Church on Sunday, 19th December. May she grow in the faith of our lord Jesus Christ.