Desertmartin Parish

PARISH BULLETIN – 6^th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – 11^th February 2024

 

SUNDAY MASSES

 

SATURDAY VIGIL

Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen:                6 pm [webcam]

St. Patrick’s, Keenaught:              7.30 pm

 

SUNDAY

St. Columba’s, Straw:                         9 am

St. Mary’s, Coolcalm:                  10 am [webcam]

St. Patrick’s, Sixtowns:                       11 am

St. Eugene’s, Moneyneena:                12 noon

 

 

WEEKDAY MASSES THIS WEEK

 

St. Mary’s, Coolcalm:  Tuesday, Ash Wednesday and Friday ~ 10 am; Thursday ~ 7.30 pm [webcam]

 

St. Patrick’s, Keenaught:  Ash Wednesday ~ 7.30 pm.

 

Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen:  Monday ~ 10 am; Ash Wednesday and Thursday ~ 7 am; Friday ~ 7.30 pm. [webcam]

 

St. Patrick’s, Sixtowns:  Ash Wednesday ~ 11 am.

 

St. Eugene’s, Moneyneena:  Ash Wednesday ~ 11 am; Thursday ~ 10 am.

 

St. Columba’s, Straw:  Ash Wednesday ~ 7.30 pm.

 

 

All Masses in St. Mary’s, Coolcalm are transmitted live via the Desertmartin parish webcam:

https://www.churchservices.tv/Desertmartin

All Masses in the Holy Rosary Church are transmitted live on the Ballinascreen parish webcam:

https://www.churchservices.tv/Draperstown

____________________________________________________________

 

Fr. Peter Madden P.P. V.F.                                    

31 Sixtowns Road, Draperstown

Phone:  028 7962 8376

Email:  ballinascreenparish@gmail.com

 

Fr. Dermot McGirr C.C.

50 Tobermore Road, Desertmartin

Telephone:  028 7963 2196

Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com

 

Desertmartin Parish Office:

Tel. 028 7939 7047.  Wednesday and Thursday, 10.30 am to 3 pm.

Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com

 

Christenings:  To book a baptism, contact Fr. McGirr on 028 7963 2196

 

Parish Anniversary and Month’s Mind Masses:  If parishioners wish to have their loved one prayed for at any Anniversary Friday Mass, please email their name to the Parish Office by noon on Thursday of the relevant week.  Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com.

Notices for First Anniversary and Month’s Mind Masses should be received before the Thursday of the previous week so they may be printed in the Bulletin the weekend before the Anniversary Mass.

 

Sperrin Foodbank:  075 4342 0639                         SVP Helpline:  077 1083 8050

____________________________________________________________

 

DEATHS AND ANNIVERSARIES

Please remember in your prayers:

 

Veronica McKernan, Oak Park; Kathleen Faulkner, Gortnaghey; Cillian McKenna, Maghera and Danny Otterson, Maghera whose funerals were held during the week.

 

Anne Doyle, Kathleen Donnelly, Katie McVeigh and Imelda Bowden who died recently.

 

Brigid Loane, Luney Road whose Month’s Mind occurs at this time.

 

Pat Scullion, Marie Scullion, Eddie Gribbin, Michael Gribbin, Philip Donnelly, Teresa McGurk, Essie Breen, John Maguinness, Brian Regan and Anthony McGuigan whose anniversaries occur at this time.

 

MONTH’S MIND MASSES

The Month’s Mind Mass for Sean McGovern, Ballinderry and Brackaghslievegallon, will be celebrated on Saturday 17^th February at 6.30 pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinderry.

 

____________________________________________________________

 

THANK YOU for your generous contributions to the Parish.

Last Week:  Sunday/Priest’s Collection envelopes:  £1,115.10. 

Restoration Fund envelopes:  £567.50.

Thank you to those who contribute to the parish by direct debit.

 

SICK VISITATION

On Tuesday Fr. McGirr will visit the sick on Luney, Drumsamney, Tobermore and Forgetown Roads, and Brackagh Lane.

 

ASH WEDNESDAY (14^th February) MASSES

7 am ~ Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen

10 am ~ St. Mary’s, Coolcalm

11 am ~ St. Patrick’s, Sixtowns

11 am ~ St. Eugene’s, Moneyneena

7.30 pm ~ St. Patrick’s, Keenaught

7.30 pm ~ St. Columba’s, Straw

 

HOLY PLACES COLLECTION

There will be a collection at all Masses on Ash Wednesday for the upkeep of the Holy Places in the Holy Land.

 

TRÓCAIRE 2024

Trócaire boxes will be available in all Church porches during Lent.  We encourage families to please take one home.  Your contributions will help Trócaire to continue its vital work in developing countries.  www.trocaire.org

 

CONFIRMATION 2024

Confirmation will be celebrated in Desertmartin Parish on Sunday 10^th March at 12 noon in St. Patrick’s Church, Keenaught for the children attending St. Columb’s P.S., Cullion and Knocknagin P.S.

 

ST. VINCENT de PAUL

Ballinascreen SVP has preloved Communion dresses, suits and shoes available to any families who need assistance.  Please call to schedule a time to view and try on.  If you have preloved Communion attire at home, please consider donating to their recycling scheme.  Tel. 077 1083 8050.

 

TEA DANCE

Tea dance at St. Mary’s Hall, Knocknagin, Desertmartin today, Sunday 11^th February.  Music by Shaun Loughrey from 3 pm to 5 pm.

 

KNOCKNAGIN HALL ACTIVITIES

Yoga Classes:  new 6-week block starting Monday morning 12^th February at 10 am.  £36.  Numbers limited.  Registration is necessary.  Contact Olive on 078 8761 4094, Kathleen on 077 6427 7809 or Anne on 028 7964 2711 to register.

Chair Exercise on Tuesday mornings at 10 am, followed by a short walk.  Admission £4.

Knit and Natter:  No class on Tuesday 13^th February.  Classes resume on Tuesday 20^th February at 7.30 pm.  Bring your own project or you can help with knitting for local charities.

Line Dancing on Wednesdays at 7.30 pm.  Admission £4.

Read Yourself Well:  Selection of books from wellness experts, doctors and bestselling authors.  There are a number of books out on loan but no details were recorded.  If you are borrowing a book, it is necessary to record your name and a contact number.  Please return any overdue books or if you require it for a longer period then contact any committee member below.

Come along to any of the above actives and enjoy a fun way to exercise, keep fit and improve your health and wellbeing.  Contact Olive on 078 8761 4094, Kathleen on 077 6427 7809 or Anne on 028 7964 2711 to register.

Sarsfield’s Accordion Band & Div.30 offer sympathy to the Loane family on the death of Bee Loane and to the Gillen family on the death of Bee Gillen.

Monthly Draw winners:  January ~ Calum Walsh, Magherafelt.  February ~ Lawrence Higgins, Luney.

All band members are invited to attend practice on Thursdays at 7.30 pm and to check their uniforms in preparation for St. Patrick’s Day.

 

BALLINASCREEN RENOVATION FUND DANCE

To kick start fundraising for the emergency work beginning shortly at St. Eugene’s Church, Moneyneena, a Parish Dance will be held on Friday 1^st March in An Ráth Dubh, Moneyneena.  Music by Bleed’N Cowboys.  More details later.

 

SMOKING CESSATION SERVICE

Thinking of giving up smoking for Lent?  Call into O’Kane’s Chemist, Draperstown and speak to a member of staff about joining their Free 12 week programme.

 

WORKSPACE RECREATION CENTRE

Nuala’s Keep Fit Classes:  6-week block of classes, you can sign up anytime.  Mondays and Thursdays from 6.45 pm.  Cost is £3.50 per class.  Call Workspace for more details or to book your place on 028 7962 8113.

Theresa Lanigan Netball:  Wednesdays 8 pm – 9 pm in the Recreation Centre.  All ladies must be 18+.  All skill levels welcome.

 

SIXTOWNS CROSS COMMUNITY GROUP

Sixtowns Hall is hosting a Free series of classes as part of a ‘Wellness Week’ initiative from Monday 26^th February to Sunday 3^rd March, with thanks to funding support from the Workspace Group.

Monday 26^th:  Pilates classes with AMG from 7 pm – 7.30 pm and 7.45 pm – 8.15 pm.  Booking essential.  Contact 077 1163 7349 or the FB page.

Tuesday 27^th:  Waltz and Line Dancing Classes with Christopher Bradley, 8.30 pm – 10 pm.  No booking required.

Wednesday 28^th:  Healthy Eating Airfryer Cookery Class with Seana McCafferty, 7 pm – 9 pm.  Booking essential.  Contact 077 1163 7349 or the FB page.

Thursday 29^th:  First Aid Class with Hibernian Medical Service Ltd., 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm.  No booking required.

Friday 1^st:  Mindfulness Class with Caroline Kelly, 7 pm – 8 pm.  No booking required.

Saturday 2^nd:  Crochet and Chat, 11 am – 12 noon.  No booking needed.

Sunday 3^rd:  Breezy Kids Workshops, in the small hall, 1-4 year olds with a parent/carer from 12 noon – 1 pm and for 5-11 year olds from 1 pm – 2 pm.  Contact Karen on 075 4611 5167 to find out more and register your interest.

Sunday 3^rd:  Exhibition in main hall from 12 noon – 2 pm with a variety of stalls focusing on health and wellness.  Drop in for a cuppa and a chat.  All welcome.

 

GLENSHANE HOUSE

Names are being taken for a 1 day First Aid and Defibriliator Course which will be held on a Friday from 9.30 am – 4.30 pm.  Cost £40 including certificate.  To register, phone 028 7774 2494 or call into the office.

 

WARM WELCOME WEDNESDAYS

Free craft sessions in Workspace Community Hub, Draperstown, 11 am – 1 pm with Michaela Mills on these dates:  Wednesday 14^th February ~ Painting mini ceramic pots.  Wednesday 6^th March ~ Create a moss-land style terrarium using recycled glass jars.  Wednesday 13^th March ~ Ireland Pebble Art for St. Patrick’s Day.  No previous experience or skill required and all materials will be supplied.  Booking required as places are limited.  Call Workspace on 028 7962 8113 to book.

 

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINARS

Omagh Charismatic Prayer Group invite you to seminars on Thursdays in conjunction with 7.30 pm Mass in Christ the King Church, Strathroy, from 15^th February until 21^st March.  Speaker on Thursday 15^th February will be Fr Charles Cross, The Grann.  Seminars online at www.churchservices.tv/strathroy.

 

DIVINE MERCY CONFERENCE BUS TRIP

Last chance to book your seat. Organised local transport to the Divine Mercy Conference, RDS Dublin, on Saturday 24^th February.  Only a few seats remaining.  Please contact:  Brenda on 078 5696 8091 or Mary on 075 0070 6798 to register your interest by today, Sunday 11^th February.  To learn more about the Conference, visit https://www.divinemercyconference.com/

 

DIOCESAN VOCATIONS

The Vocations Directors of the northern dioceses invite anyone interested in serving the Church as a diocesan priest, to attend a retreat at the Drumalis Retreat Centre, Larne from 8^th – 10^th March.  Anyone aged 18 or over wishing to attend should contact the Diocesan Vocations Director, Fr. Pat O’Hagan at pgoh2111@gmail.com.

 

LENT RETREAT

‘Lent:  Season of Well-Being’ Weekend Retreat at Ards Friary, Donegal, 23^rd – 25^th February.  Led by Philip McParland.  This weekend will present Lent as a suitable time to practice the things that are good for our physical, mental and spiritual health.  To book, contact Ards.  Tel. 00353 74 91 38909.  Email:  info@ardsfriary.ie.

 

SPERRIN FOODBANK NEW OPENING HOURS

Foodbank operates Monday – Friday 9 am – 5 pm.  If you or someone you know requires assistance, please call 075 4342 0639.  No questions asked or criteria to meet.  Follow them on facebook at Sperrinfoodbank or email foodbank@theworkspacegroup.org.

 

PILGRIMAGE TO FATIMA

Fully escorted group pilgrimage accompanied by Spiritual Director for seven nights from 28^th May – 3^rd June.  Accommodation in 4* Hotel Style, with breakfast, lunch and dinner each day.  Cost £825 p.p.s.  Single room supplement £280.  Mass daily and spiritual activities.  Services of JWT tour guide.  Direct flights from Dublin.  Coach from Oakleaf Restaurant, Maghera to Dublin Airport.  For further details, please contact Christina Lagan on 078 0319 2621.

 

DERRY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES 

Monday 1^st to Friday 5^th July, ex City of Derry Airport.  Led by Bishop Donal McKeown.  Full board £799, single room supplement £150.  The pilgrimage office at 164 Bishop Street, Derry, will open to the public 11 am to 1 pm on Thursdays and Saturdays, starting Saturday 10^th February.  Tel. 028 7126 0293 or email derrypilgrim@outlook.com.

 

DERRY DIOCESAN YOUTH PILGRIMAGE TO MEDJUGORJE

We are inviting young people aged 16+ to join us on pilgrimage to Medjugorje for 9 nights from 30^th July to 8^th August.  This will be a unique experience for young people and an opportunity to engage with peers from around the world, in a faith context.  Up to 50,000 young people attend the Medjugorje Youth Festival each year.  Cost is £800 and there will be a budget plan to help with this.  Names and deposit of £100 are required as soon as possible to secure a place.  For more information or to book in, please contact lizzie.rea@derrydiocese.org or tel. 028 7126 4087.

 

SAFEGUARDING NOTICE

If you have any concerns with regard to Safeguarding children or adults in need of protection within the Church, contact Marie Gormley, the Diocesan Designated Liaison Person (DLP), on 075 9650 0793, or at mariegormley@derrydiocese.org.

Additional contact numbers:  PSNI Tel. 101 or Social Services Western HSC Trust on 028 7131 4090 (ask for Duty Social Worker).

 

 

 

PARISH BULLETIN – 5^th SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – 4^th February 2024

 

SUNDAY MASSES

 

SATURDAY VIGIL

Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen:                6 pm [webcam]

St. Patrick’s, Keenaught:               7.30 pm

 

SUNDAY

St. Columba’s, Straw:                         9 am

St. Mary’s, Coolcalm:                  10 am [webcam]

St. Patrick’s, Sixtowns:                       11 am

St. Eugene’s, Moneyneena:                12 noon

 

 

WEEKDAY MASSES THIS WEEK

 

St. Mary’s, Coolcalm:  Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday ~ 10 am. [webcam]

 

Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen:  Wednesday ~ 10 am; Monday and Friday ~ 7.30 pm. [webcam]

 

 

All Masses in St. Mary’s, Coolcalm are transmitted live via the Desertmartin parish webcam:

https://www.churchservices.tv/Desertmartin

All Masses in the Holy Rosary Church are transmitted live on the Ballinascreen parish webcam:

https://www.churchservices.tv/Draperstown

____________________________________________________________

 

Fr. Peter Madden P.P. V.F.                                    

31 Sixtowns Road, Draperstown

Phone:  028 7962 8376

Email:  ballinascreenparish@gmail.com

 

Fr. Dermot McGirr C.C.

50 Tobermore Road, Desertmartin

Telephone:  028 7963 2196

Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com

 

Desertmartin Parish Office:

Tel. 028 7939 7047.  Wednesday and Thursday, 10.30 am to 3 pm.

Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com

 

Christenings:  To book a baptism, contact Fr. McGirr on 028 7963 2196

 

Parish Anniversary and Month’s Mind Masses:  If parishioners wish to have their loved one prayed for at any Anniversary Friday Mass, please email their name to the Parish Office by noon on Thursday of the relevant week.  Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com.

Notices for First Anniversary and Month’s Mind Masses should be received before the Thursday of the previous week so they may be printed in the Bulletin the weekend before the Anniversary Mass.

 

Sperrin Foodbank:  075 4342 0639                         SVP Helpline:  077 1083 8050

____________________________________________________________

 

DEATHS AND ANNIVERSARIES

Please remember in your prayers:

 

Anne Doyle, 29 Cullion Road; Kathleen Donnelly, Bancran Road; Katie McVeigh, Ballyclare and Pomeroy; and Imelda Bowden, Belfast whose funerals were held during the week.

 

Seamus O’Hagan, John O’Hagan, Kevin Fullen, Edward Gribbin, Norah Gribbin, Margaret Stewart, Mary Kelly, Sarah Higgins, John Crawley Snr., Paddy McCann, Kathleen Leeper and Jim Reid whose anniversaries occur at this time.

 

MONTH’S MIND MASSES

The Month’s Mind Mass for Brigid Loane, 9 Luney Road, will be celebrated on Friday 9^th February at 10 am in St. Mary’s Church, Coolcalm.

 

____________________________________________________________

 

THANK YOU for your generous contributions to the Parish.

Last Week:  Sunday/Priest’s Collection envelopes:  £830.00. 

Thank you to those who contribute to the parish by direct debit.

 

THANK YOU

Fr. McGirr would like to offer his gratitude to Desertmartin G.A.C. for the contribution to the parish from its Christmas Draw.  We appreciate all the organisation and work people made in running and supporting the draw.

 

THE LOURDES HOSPITALITÉ COLLECTION

The Lourdes Hospitalité collection, which helps those who wish to go to Lourdes on the Derry Diocesan Pilgrimage and who require nursing care and assistance, will take place at the Sunday Masses next weekend, 10^th/11^th February.  There is a yellow envelope in the box of collection envelopes marked ‘Lourdes Collection’ for this.  People can also contribute to the collection by placing their donation in an envelope, writing ‘Lourdes’ on the front and placing it in the collection box at Mass or putting it through the letterbox at the Parochial House.  As in previous years, the Lourdes Pilgrimage Office appeals to your generosity for this worthwhile cause as we take the pilgrimage forward once again in the wake of the Covid pandemic.

 

SICK VISITATION

On Monday and Tuesday Fr. McGirr will visit the sick on Iniscarn, Brackagh, Gortahurk, Brackalislea and Nutgrove Roads.

On Wednesday and Friday Fr. McGirr will visit the sick on Carncose, Quilly, Luney, Drumsamney, Tobermore and Forgetown Roads, and Brackagh Lane.

 

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Eucharistic Adoration in Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen on Monday 5^th February from 12 noon until 7.25 pm.

 

PADRE PIO MASS

The monthly Mass in honour of St. Pio of Pietrelcina will be celebrated on Monday 5^th February at 7.30 pm in the Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen.  Novena prayers and Rosary

will commence at 7.10 pm.

 

CONFIRMATION 2024

Confirmation will be celebrated in Desertmartin Parish on Sunday 10^th March at 12 noon in St. Patrick’s Church, Keenaught for the children attending St. Columb’s P.S., Cullion and Knocknagin P.S.

 

ST. VINCENT de PAUL

Ballinascreen SVP has preloved Communion dresses, suits and shoes available to any families who need assistance.  Please call to schedule a time to view and try on.  If you have preloved Communion attire at home, please consider donating to their recycling scheme.  Tel. 077 1083 8050.

 

KNOCKNAGIN HALL ACTIVITIES

Social Dance this Friday 9^th February, 9 pm – Midnight.  Music by Chris Dallet.

Yoga Classes:  new 6-week block starting Monday morning 12^th February at 10 am.  £36.  Numbers limited.  Registration is necessary.  Contact Olive on 078 8761 4094, Kathleen on 077 6427 7809 or Anne on 028 7964 2711 to register.

Chair Exercise on Tuesday mornings at 10 am, followed by a short walk.  Admission £4.

Knit and Natter on Tuesday evenings at 7.30 pm.  Bring your own project or you can help with knitting for local charities.

Line Dancing on Wednesdays at 7.30 pm.  Admission £4.

Read Yourself Well:  Selection of books from wellness experts, doctors and bestselling authors.  There are a number of books out on loan but no details were recorded.  If you are borrowing a book, it is necessary to record your name and a contact number.  Please return any overdue books or if you require it for a longer period then contact any committee member below.

Come along to any of the above actives and enjoy a fun way to exercise, keep fit and improve your health and wellbeing.  Contact Olive on 078 8761 4094, Kathleen on 077 6427 7809 or Anne on 028 7964 2711 to register.

Sarsfield’s Accordion Band Practice on Thursdays at 7.30 pm.  Only 7 practice nights left before St. Patrick’s Day.  Can all band members please try to attend and check their uniforms.  Tickets for 2024 monthly draw now on sale, £1 a month, £12 for the year.  £50 prize drew every month.

 

BALLINASCREEN HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The AGM of the Ballinascreen Historical Society will be held on Tuesday 6^th February at 8 pm in the Community Hub, Draperstown.  It will be preceded by an Archive Film Night.  Everyone welcome.

 

TEA DANCE

Tea dance at St. Mary’s Hall, Knocknagin, Desertmartin next Sunday 11^th February.  Music by Shaun Loughrey from 3 pm to 5 pm.

 

BALLINASCREEN RENOVATION FUND DANCE

To kick start fundraising for the emergency work beginning shortly at St. Eugene’s Church, Moneyneena, a Parish Dance will be held on Friday 1^st March in An Ráth Dubh, Moneyneena.  Music by Bleed’N Cowboys.  More details later.

 

WORKSPACE RECREATION CENTRE

Nuala’s Keep Fit Classes:  6-week block of classes, you can sign up anytime.  Mondays and Thursdays from 6.45 pm.  Cost is £3.50 per class.  Call Workspace for more details or to book your place on 028 7962 8113.

Theresa Lanigan Netball:  Wednesdays 8 pm – 9 pm in the Recreation Centre.  All ladies must be 18+.  All skill levels welcome.

 

ROSARY ON THE COAST

The next Rosary on the Coast will be at 3 pm today Sunday 4^th February at Lisfannon Strand, Buncrana.  We will pray for Ireland, world peace, marriage, families and the lives of our unborn children.  Bring the family and friends and make this something special for Our Lady.  For details, tel. 077 3033 0028.

 

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINARS

Omagh Charismatic Prayer Group invite you to seminars on Thursdays in conjunction with 7.30 pm Mass in Christ the King Church, Strathroy, from 15^th February until 21^st March.  They will also be available online at www.churchservices.tv/strathroy.

 

DIVINE MERCY CONFERENCE BUS TRIP

Spiritual journey to the Divine Mercy Conference in the RDS in Dublin.  We are excited to offer two options of organised transport, a one-day trip or full weekend conference.  To express your interest and secure your spot, please contact:  Brenda on 078 5696 8091 or Mary on 075 0070 6798 for Pomeroy Bus:  One-day conference on Saturday 24^th February.  Or Una on 077 4357 5969 for Toome Bus:  A weekend conference from Friday 23^rd – Sunday 25^th February.  Register by this Monday 5^th February to guarantee your place on this special trip with amazing talks and healing.  To learn more about the Conference, visit https://www.divinemercyconference.com/

 

DIOCESAN VOCATIONS

The Vocations Directors of the northern dioceses invite anyone interested in serving the Church as a diocesan priest, to attend a retreat at the Drumalis Retreat Centre, Larne from 8^th – 10^th March.  Anyone aged 18 or over wishing to attend should contact the Diocesan Vocations Director, Fr. Pat O’Hagan at pgoh2111@gmail.com.

 

LENT RETREAT

‘Lent:  Season of Well-Being’ Weekend Retreat at Ards Friary, Donegal, 23^rd – 25^th February.  Led by Philip McParland.  This weekend will present Lent as a suitable time to practice the things that are good for our physical, mental and spiritual health.  To book, contact Ards.  Tel. 00353 74 91 38909.  Email:  info@ardsfriary.ie.

 

SPERRIN FOODBANK NEW OPENING HOURS

Foodbank operates Monday – Friday 9 am – 5 pm.  If you or someone you know requires assistance, please call 075 4342 0639.  No questions asked or criteria to meet.  Follow them on facebook at Sperrinfoodbank or email foodbank@theworkspacegroup.org.

 

PILGRIMAGE TO FATIMA

Fully escorted group pilgrimage accompanied by Spiritual Director for seven nights from 28^th May – 3^rd June.  Accommodation in 4* Hotel Style, with breakfast, lunch and dinner each day.  Cost £825 p.p.s.  Single room supplement £280.  Mass daily and spiritual activities.  Services of JWT tour guide.  Direct flights from Dublin.  Coach from Oakleaf Restaurant, Maghera to Dublin Airport.  For further details, please contact Christina Lagan on 078 0319 2621.

 

DERRY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES 

Monday 1^st to Friday 5^th July, ex City of Derry Airport.  Led by Bishop Donal McKeown.  Full board £799, single room supplement £150.  The pilgrimage office at 164 Bishop Street, Derry, will open to the public 11 am to 1 pm on Thursdays and Saturdays, starting Saturday 10^th February.  Tel. 028 7126 0293 or email derrypilgrim@outlook.com.

 

DERRY DIOCESAN YOUTH PILGRIMAGE TO MEDJUGORJE

We are inviting young people aged 16+ to join us on pilgrimage to Medjugorje for 9 nights from 30^th July to 8^th August.  This will be a unique experience for young people and an opportunity to engage with peers from around the world, in a faith context.  Up to 50,000 young people attend the Medjugorje Youth Festival each year.  Cost is £800 and there will be a budget plan to help with this.  Names and deposit of £100 are required as soon as possible to secure a place.  For more information or to book in, please contact lizzie.rea@derrydiocese.org or tel. 028 7126 4087.

 

SAFEGUARDING NOTICE

If you have any concerns with regard to Safeguarding children or adults in need of protection within the Church, contact Marie Gormley, the Diocesan Designated Liaison Person (DLP), on 075 9650 0793, or at mariegormley@derrydiocese.org.

Additional contact numbers:  PSNI Tel. 101 or Social Services Western HSC Trust on 028 7131 4090 (ask for Duty Social Worker).

 

 

 

PARISH BULLETIN – 2^nd SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – 14^th January 2024

 

SUNDAY MASSES

 

SATURDAY VIGIL

Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen:                6 pm [webcam]

St. Patrick’s, Keenaught:               7.30 pm

 

SUNDAY

St. Columba’s, Straw:                         9 am

St. Mary’s, Coolcalm:                  10 am [webcam]

St. Patrick’s, Sixtowns:                       11 am

St. Eugene’s, Moneyneena:                12 noon

 

 

WEEKDAY MASSES THIS WEEK

 

St. Mary’s, Coolcalm:  Friday ~ 10 am. [webcam]

 

Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen:  Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday ~ 10 am; Friday ~ 7.30 pm. [webcam]

 

 

All Masses in St. Mary’s, Coolcalm are transmitted live via the Desertmartin parish webcam:

https://www.churchservices.tv/Desertmartin

All Masses in the Holy Rosary Church are transmitted live on the Ballinascreen parish webcam:

https://www.churchservices.tv/Draperstown

____________________________________________________________

 

Fr. Peter Madden P.P. V.F.                                    

31 Sixtowns Road, Draperstown

Phone:  028 7962 8376

Email:  ballinascreenparish@gmail.com

 

Fr. Dermot McGirr C.C.

50 Tobermore Road, Desertmartin

Telephone:  028 7963 2196

Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com

 

Desertmartin Parish Office:

Tel. 028 7939 7047.  Wednesday and Thursday, 10.30 am to 3 pm.

Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com

 

Christenings:  To book a baptism, contact Fr. McGirr on 028 7963 2196

 

Parish Anniversary and Month’s Mind Masses:  If parishioners wish to have their loved one prayed for at any Anniversary Friday Mass, please email their name to the Parish Office by noon on Thursday of the relevant week.  Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com.

Notices for First Anniversary and Month’s Mind Masses should be received before the Thursday of the previous week so they may be printed in the Bulletin the weekend before the Anniversary Mass.

 

Sperrin Foodbank:  075 4342 0639                         SVP Helpline:  077 1083 8050

____________________________________________________________

 

DEATHS AND ANNIVERSARIES

Please remember in your prayers:

 

Brigid Loane, 9 Luney Road; Leon Toner, 22 Glenelly Villas and Patrick McCormick, Stockholm, Sweden whose funerals were held during the week.

 

Eileen Ryan, Michael Brennan, Joseph Larkin, Hugh McGuckin, Bridget McKay, Michelle Cartin and Vincent McHenry who died recently.

 

Ann McCrystal, Helena McElhennon, Matthew Shields, Bridie McIvor, Tommy McGuckin, Roseanne McGuckin, Sarah McElwee, Dennis McWilliams, Harry O’Kane, Veronica O’Kane and Patrick Corry whose anniversaries occur at this time.

 

MONTH’S MIND MASSES

The Month’s Mind Mass for Hugh McGuckin, 15 Carncose Road, will be celebrated on Friday 19^th January at 7.30 pm in the Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen.

 

The Month’s Mind Mass for Elizabeth O’Connor, Magherafelt and Boveagh, will be celebrated on Friday 19^th January at 7.30 pm in the Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen.

 

____________________________________________________________

 

THANK YOU for your generous contributions to the Parish.

Last Week:  Sunday/Priest’s Collection envelopes:  £798.50. 

Restoration Fund envelopes:  £805.50. 

Thank you to those who contribute to the parish by direct debit.

 

ST. MARTIN’S GAC CLUB NOTES

The Christmas Draw income came to £3,376.  This is divided equally between Desertmartin Parish and Desertmartin GAC.  Well done once again to our winners Paula McElwee and Dylan O’Neill.  A sincere thank you to all those who contributed, organised and sold tickets.

 

ST. VINCENT de PAUL

Ballinascreen Saint Vincent de Paul Society would like offer its sincere gratitude to everyone that donated money, food, clothing, furniture and toys throughout the year.  They also deeply appreciate your recent generous food and money donations for their Annual Christmas Appeal.  Your kindness and caring commitment gives hope to many individuals and families in our parishes.  A special thank you to St. Colm’s High School Pope John Paul II Award pupils who assist with weekly collections.  If you or someone you know is alone, a visit from SVP could mean the world to someone who is going through a difficult time.  Please contact SVP on 077 1083 8050 if you need any assistance to get back on your feet.  Thank you.

 

KNOCKNAGIN HALL ACTIVITIES

Yoga Classes started on Monday 8^th January at 10 am.  Numbers limited.  Registration is necessary.  £36 for 6 weeks.  Contact Olive on 078 8761 4094, Kathleen on 077 6427 7809 or Anne on 028 7964 2711 to register.

Food and Medicine:  On Monday 15^th January at 7.30 pm, Margaret, Complementary Practitioner and Lecturer in Holistic Health Studies, will deliver a talk on Food and Medicine to help beat the Winter Blues.

Chair Exercise on Tuesday mornings at 10 am, followed by a short walk.  Admission £4.

Knit and Natter on Tuesday evenings at 7.30 pm.  Bring your own project or you can help with knitting for local charities.

Line Dancing on Wednesdays at 7.30 pm.  Admission £4.

Come along to any of the above actives and enjoy a fun way to exercise, keep fit and improve your health and wellbeing.  Contact Olive on 078 8761 4094, Kathleen on 077 6427 7809 or Anne on 028 7964 2711 to register.

Band Practice on Thursdays at 7.30 pm.  New and past members welcome.  Tickets for 2024 monthly draw now on sale, £1 a month, £12 for the year.  £50 prize drew every month.

 

FREE PRE-SCHOOL PLACES

EA Connect Portal opened on Tuesday 9^th January.  If your child was born between 2^nd July 2019 and 1^st July 2020, they will be eligible for a funded preschool place from September 2024 – June 2025.

Naíscoil na Speiríní’s Pre-Pre Program has now started.  For more details, you are welcome to please email naiscoilnaspeirini@gmail.com.

 

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS’ WEEK

The Mass to launch Catholic Schools Week will be celebrated on Tuesday 16^th January at 10 am in St. Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry.

 

HEALTH MATTERS SESSION

On Wednesday 17^th January in Workspace Community Hub.  Getting a Healthy Heart information session with Aine from O’Kane’s Pharmacy commencing at 12 noon.  No need to book, just drop in.

 

WOMEN’S HEALTH EVENING

Women’s Health and Wellbeing Evening on Menopause with guest speaker Dr. Frances Stewart on Friday 19^th January from 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm in The Community Hub.  Limited tickets are available.  Purchase in store at O’Kane’s Pharmacy or by phoning 028 7962 8209.

 

GLENSHANE HOUSE DUNGIVEN

OCN L2 Award in Managing Challenging Behaviour in Children course starting soon (6 weeks x 2 hrs).  Few spaces available.  To register, tel. 028 7774 2494.

 

SPERRIN FOODBANK NEW OPENING HOURS

Foodbank operates Monday – Friday 9 am – 5 pm.  If you or someone you know requires assistance, please call 075 4342 0639.  No questions asked or criteria to meet.  Follow them on facebook at Sperrinfoodbank or email foodbank@theworkspacegroup.org.

 

TRÓCAIRE SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS 

Are you a retired teacher or someone who has experience presenting to groups of school children?  Do you have a passion for making this world a better place, especially for the most vulnerable?  Trócaire is looking for volunteers to support its School Talks Programme for Lent 2024 in parishes of the Derry Diocese.  If you think you have the right skills and experience and will have a few free hours during Lent, then we would love to hear from you!  For more information, call Casey Schell on 028 9080 8033 or email casey.schell@trocaire.org.

 

MARY’S MEALS – DOUBLE THE LOVE 

Mary’s Meals is keeping the promise of a daily school meal to over 2.4 million children in 18 countries.  Our ‘Double the Love’ Campaign has launched and all donations made to Mary’s Meals until 22^nd January 2024 will be doubled by a group of generous supporters, up to £1 million.  Amongst the many challenges we see in today’s world, from conflict to the cost-of-living crisis, your little acts of love can go further thanks to ‘Double the Love’, bringing hope to desperately hungry children and their families.  Please pray that we can reach even more children around the world with our life-changing school meals this Christmas.  Find out more and browse our Christmas gift cards at marysmeals.org.uk or freephone 0800 698 1212.

 

TEACHER TRAINING COURSE IN FERTILITY AWARENESS 2024 

Teacher Training Course in Fertility Awareness at the City North Hotel, Gormanston, Co. Meath and Online.  Six study days in person (Saturdays), Nine lectures online (Mondays) from January to April 2024, followed by three months of supervised practical instruction from April to June 2024 leading to a certificate to teach the Sympto Thermal Double-Check Method of Natural Family Planning.  Accredited by European Institute for Family Life Education:  www.ieef.ie.  Cost:  €320 from Eventbrite / NFPTAI:

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/fertility-awareness tickets-742948818917?aff=oddtdtcreator  

Further details: www.naturalfamilyplanningireland.ie  or info@naturalfamilyplanningireland.ie or Tel. Sinead on 00353 86 052 8282.

 

DERRY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES 2024 

Monday 1^st to Friday 5^th July, ex City of Derry Airport.  Led by Bishop Donal McKeown.  Full board £799, single room supplement £150.  The pilgrimage office at 164 Bishop Street, Derry, will open to the public 11 am to 1 pm on Thursdays and Saturdays, starting Saturday 10^th February.  Tel. 028 7126 0293 or email derrypilgrim@outlook.com.

 

DERRY DIOCESAN YOUTH PILGRIMAGE TO MEDJUGORJE 2024

We are inviting young people aged 16+ to join us on pilgrimage to Medjugorje for 9 nights from 30^th July to 8^th August.  This will be a unique experience for young people and an opportunity to engage with peers from around the world, in a faith context.  Up to 50,000 young people attend the Medjugorje Youth Festival each year.  Cost is £800 and there will be a budget plan to help with this.  Names and deposit of £100 are required as soon as possible to secure a place.  For more information or to book in, please contact lizzie.rea@derrydiocese.org or tel. 028 7126 4087.

 

SAFEGUARDING NOTICE

If you have any concerns with regard to Safeguarding children or adults in need of protection within the Church, contact Marie Gormley, the Diocesan Designated Liaison Person (DLP), on 075 9650 0793, or at mariegormley@derrydiocese.org.

Additional contact numbers:  PSNI Tel. 101 or Social Services Western HSC Trust on 028 7131 4090 (ask for Duty Social Worker).

 

STRESS CONTROL ONLINE  

Stress is a normal reaction to the rapidly changing and uncertain times we are all living in at the moment.  If you are feeling a bit more stressed than usual and would like to learn some great ways, free-of-charge, to deal with common problems like anxiety, depression, panicky feelings, poor sleep and poor wellbeing then come along to our online Stress Control class.  ‘Stress Control’ is a six-session cognitive-behavioural therapy class used extensively in community-settings by the NHS (UK) and HSE (Ireland) and across the world.  You can find out more here: https://ni.stresscontrol.org/

As you can’t come to a regular Stress Control class due to the current circumstances, Stress Control will come to you and live stream the sessions.  Each session will be available on the YouTube channel from 9 am and will remain available until 8 am the morning of the next session, e.g. Session One will be available from 9 am on Monday 8^th January and will be taken down at 8 am on Thursday 11^th January.  Session Two will then premiere at 9 am.  The sessions will be led by Dr. Jim White, consultant clinical psychologist, who created the class and who has taught most of the NHS (UK) and HSE (Ireland) trainers who would normally be running classes across the country.

To take part:

 

1. Go to https://ni.stresscontrol.org/ where you can learn more about the class and get the dates. Everything you need to successfully complete the class – the booklets, self-assessment, relaxation and mindfulness – can be found in the ‘Free zone’.  If you can, please read, and start working on, the booklets in the ‘Preparing for the course’ section before Session 1.

 

2. On the homepage, click on the ‘Stress Control Online’ link to access our YouTube channel where the classes will be available to view at the scheduled times. If you click the ‘Subscribe’ button on our YouTube page (free), you will receive notifications when a new session is available.  You can also follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdCfzKgmXbB30baWLv6L5-g

 

3. The session will begin exactly on time, so make sure you are there from the start. Sessions run for about 90 minutes and there will be a 10-minute break in the middle.

 

4. Each session is one piece of the jigsaw in tackling your Stress. By coming to each class, the jigsaw will form, and the big picture can emerge, making you better able to handle your stress.  This is cognitive-behavioural therapy so it is crucial you practice the skills you will learn between sessions.

 

Life is very hard for us just now and there are no easy solutions or magic cures, but, with hard work and determination, we can boost our resilience to cope with these difficult times and come out the other end stronger. Please pass this on to anyone who you think might benefit from the class.

 

 

 

PARISH BULLETIN – THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD – 7^th January 2024

 

SUNDAY MASSES

 

SATURDAY VIGIL

Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen:                6 pm [webcam]

St. Patrick’s, Keenaught:               7.30 pm

 

SUNDAY

St. Columba’s, Straw:                         9 am

St. Mary’s, Coolcalm:                  10 am [webcam]

St. Patrick’s, Sixtowns:                       11 am

St. Eugene’s, Moneyneena:                12 noon

 

 

WEEKDAY MASSES THIS WEEK

 

St. Mary’s, Coolcalm:  Tuesday, Thursday and Friday ~ 10 am. [webcam]

 

Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen:  Wednesday ~ 10 am; Monday and Friday ~ 7.30 pm. [webcam]

 

 

All Masses in St. Mary’s, Coolcalm are transmitted live via the Desertmartin parish webcam:

https://www.churchservices.tv/Desertmartin

All Masses in the Holy Rosary Church are transmitted live on the Ballinascreen parish webcam:

https://www.churchservices.tv/Draperstown

____________________________________________________________

 

Fr. Peter Madden P.P. V.F.                                    

31 Sixtowns Road, Draperstown

Phone:  028 7962 8376

Email:  ballinascreenparish@gmail.com

 

Fr. Dermot McGirr C.C.

50 Tobermore Road, Desertmartin

Telephone:  028 7963 2196

Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com

 

Desertmartin Parish Office:

Tel. 028 7939 7047.  Wednesday and Thursday, 10.30 am to 3 pm.

Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com

 

Christenings:  To book a baptism, contact Fr. McGirr on 028 7963 2196

 

Parish Anniversary and Month’s Mind Masses:  If parishioners wish to have their loved one prayed for at any Anniversary Friday Mass, please email their name to the Parish Office by noon on Thursday of the relevant week.  Email:  desertmartinparish@gmail.com.

Notices for First Anniversary and Month’s Mind Masses should be received before the Thursday of the previous week so they may be printed in the Bulletin the weekend before the Anniversary Mass.

 

Sperrin Foodbank:  075 4342 0639                         SVP Helpline:  077 1083 8050

____________________________________________________________

 

DEATHS AND ANNIVERSARIES

Please remember in your prayers:

 

Eileen Ryan, 48 Tirgan Road; Michael Brennan, Gulladuff and Joseph Larkin, Glengormley whose funerals were held during the week.

 

Hugh McGuckin, Bridget McKay, Michelle Cartin, Vincent McHenry, Elizabeth O’Connor, Bridget Stokes, Conor Kerr, Evelyn Haskins, Paul Crilly and Sadie Hennighan who died recently.

 

Josie Murray, Mary Jane Donnelly, James McKay, Michael Mulholland, Katie Smith, Lelia Burns, Aloysius McElwee and Nell Grant whose anniversaries occur at this time.

 

____________________________________________________________

 

THANK YOU for your generous contributions to the Parish.  Last Week:  Sunday/Priest’s Collection envelopes:  £700.52.  Thank you to those who contribute to the parish by direct debit.

 

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Eucharistic Adoration in Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen on Monday 8^th January from 12 noon until 7.25 pm.

 

PADRE PIO MASS

The monthly Mass in honour of St. Pio of Pietrelcina will be celebrated on Monday 8^th January at 7.30 pm in the Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen.  Novena prayers and rosary commences at 7.10 pm.

 

 

TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS 2023 DRAW

 

First Day of Christmas (25^th December) Draw Winners:

Caroline Kelly, 28 Cordarragh, Draperstown  (No. 1052)

Seamus McElwee, 1 Gortahurk Road  (No. 1142)

Bridget Hegarty, 36 Roshure Road,  (No. 0085)

Extra prizes:

Patrick Hegarty, 36 Roshure Road  (No. 0084)

Aisling Conway, 55 Cavanreagh Road, Draperstown  (No. 1524)

 

Second Day of Christmas (26^th December) Draw Winners:

Fred McEldowney, Bracka  (No. 0992)

Ronán Cassidy, Roscommon (No. 1281)

Mary O’Hagan, 86 Iniscarn Road  (No. 1358)

 

Third Day of Christmas (27^th December) Draw Winners:

Paul McCloskey, Benedy, Dungiven (No. 0479)

Brendan & Geraldine McCullagh  (No. 1563)

Helen Ryan, 157 Ardboe Road, Coagh, Cookstown  (No. 0016)

Extra prize:

Florence Hegarty, Moneymore Road (No. 1589)

 

Fourth Day of Christmas (28^th December) Draw Winners:

Lisa & Barry Doherty, Rannakeeran Drive  (No. 1197)

The Thompson Family, c/o Angela McGuigan, Knocknagin  (No. 0823)

Cormac Heron, Galway  (No. 0274)

 

Fifth Day of Christmas (29^th December) Draw Winners:

The Devlin Family, 54 Moneymore Road  (No. 0416)

Vincent McGirr, Lifford  (No. 0156)

Phil and Colette Trainor, Bracka  (No. 0467)

 

Sixth Day of Christmas (30^th December) Draw Winners:

Connor Shiels, 97 Tobermore Road  (No. 0785)

Seamus Murray, Ranaghan Road, Draperstown  (No. 0458)

Kathleen McWilliams, 5 Tirruadh Mews, Draperstown  (No. 0267)

Extra prize:

Chris and Geraldine Magee, Tonagh Heights, Draperstown  (No. 1261)

 

Seventh Day of Christmas (31^st December) Draw Winners:

Shane and Seana Brunton, 18 Dromdallagan  (No. 0395)

Marion Kelly, 21 River Road, Draperstown  (No. 1227)

Brian McNamee, 9 River Road, Draperstown  (No. 0076)

Extra prize:

Kyle Andy Kelly, Draperstown (No. 1579)

 

Eighth Day of Christmas (1^st January) Draw Winners:

Philomena Higgins, 108 Glenravel Road, Martinstown, Ballymena  (No. 0688)

Frank and Bridie O’Hagan, 5 Drumderg Road, Draperstown  (No. 0447)

McEldowney Family, 40 Mulnavoo Road  (No. 0430)

 

Ninth Day of Christmas (2^nd January) Draw Winners:

Madge and Emmett Walls, 47 Luney Road, Desertmartin  (No. 0908)

Nicole, c/o Bernie Clerkin, 124A Sixtowns Road  (No. 1232)

Mrs. Terry Kennedy, 25 Ranaghan Road, Moneyneena  (No. 0350)

 

Tenth Day of Christmas (3^rd January) Draw Winners:

Margaret O’Hagan, 5 Gallion Heights, Moneymore  (No. 0960)

Rosemary Kelly, Crocknamohill  (No. 1298)

Nora Higgins, 22A Drumsamney Road  (No. 0017)

 

Eleventh Day of Christmas (4^th January) Draw Winners (£500):

Hughie and Mary McGuckin, 15 Carncose Road  (No. 1007)

Brendan and Josephine O’Connor, 77 Iniscarn Road  (No. 0107)

Extra prize (£100):

Julie Haskins, 9 Tonagh Heights (No. 1296)

 

Twelfth Day of Christmas (5^th January) Draw Winner (£1,000):

Josie McCloskey, Benedy, Dungiven  (No. 0452)

Extra prizes (£100):

Kevin Gray, 51 Drumard Road (No. 0205)

May Leadon, 59 High Street, Draperstown (No. 1539)

 

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE WINNERS OVER THE 12 DAYS!

  

We would like to THANK EVERYONE in Desertmartin, Ballinascreen and beyond for your very generous support of the Christmas Draw once again this year.  We are grateful to parishioners who entered the Draw and who sold tickets among family and friends, in the community and farther afield; to parish workers who distributed and sold tickets through the Churches and Parish Offices; and to the staff of Heron’s Gift Shop and Moneyneena Post Office who helped and sold so many tickets over the weeks in the run-up to Christmas.  A heartfelt thank you to everyone and your fabulous response to the Twelve Days of Christmas 2023 Draw especially in these times.  It is appreciated very, very much.

 

 

KNOCKNAGIN HALL ACTIVITIES

Yoga Classes start on Monday 8^th January at 10 am.  Numbers limited.  Registration is necessary.  £36 for 6 weeks.  Contact Olive on 078 8761 4094, Kathleen on 077 6427 7809 or Anne on 028 7964 2711 to register.

SPRED Group next meeting on Monday 8^th January at 7 pm.

Social Dance on Friday 12^th January, 9 pm – Midnight.  Music by Kenny Paul.

Food and Medicine:  On Monday 15^th January at 7.30 pm, Margaret, Complementary Practitioner and Lecturer in Holistic Health Studies, will deliver a talk on Food and Medicine to help beat the Winter Blues.

Chair Exercise recommences on Tuesday morning 9^th January at 10 am, followed by a short walk.  Admission £4.

Knit and Natter recommences on Tuesday evening 9^th January at 7.30 pm.  Bring your own project or you can help with knitting for local charities.

Line Dancing recommences on Wednesday 10^th January at 7.30 pm.  Admission £4.

Come along to any of the above actives and enjoy a fun way to exercise, keep fit and improve your health and wellbeing.  Contact Olive on 078 8761 4094, Kathleen on 077 6427 7809 or Anne on 028 7964 2711 to register.

Sarsfield’s Accordion Band and Div. 30 Band would like to pass on our deepest sympathy and condolences to the McGuckin and McElwee families on the death of Hugh McGuckin and to the Ryan and Donnelly families on the death of Eileen Ryan.

Band Practice recommences on Thursday at 7.30 pm.  New and past members welcome.  Tickets for 2024 monthly draw now on sale, £1 a month, £12 for the year.  £50 prize drew every month.

 

FREE PRE-SCHOOL PLACES

EA Connect Portal opens on Tuesday 9^th January at 12 noon.  If your child was born between 2^nd July 2019 and 1^st July 2020, they will be eligible for a funded preschool place from September 2024 – June 2025.

Naíscoil na Speiríní’s Pre-Pre Program has now started.  For more details, you are welcome to please email naiscoilnaspeirini@gmail.com.

 

GIVE BLOOD, SAVE LIVES

Give Blood at Workspace Recreation Centre, Draperstown on Tuesday 9^th January from 12.30 pm to 4 pm and 5 pm to 7.30 pm.  To book an appointment, visit www.nibts.org or tel. 080 8553 4653.

 

ANAM CARA DONEGAL

Anam Cara Donegal, the organisation that supports bereaved parents, is holding its monthly Parent Evening for bereaved parents on Thursday 11^th January at 7.15 pm in the Raddison Blu Hotel, Letterkenny Co. Donegal.  This event is free and open to all bereaved parents regardless of the age your child died, the circumstances of their death, or whether their death was recent or not.  We also offer an online service.  For more information, call 00353 1 404 5378.

 

ST. PIUS X COLLEGE, MAGHERAFELT

Open Day is on Saturday 13^th January at 11.30 am.  Everyone is welcome to attend.

 

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS’ WEEK

The Mass to launch Catholic Schools Week will be celebrated on Tuesday 16^th January at 10 am in St. Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry.

 

SPERRIN FOODBANK NEW OPENING HOURS

Foodbank operates Monday – Friday 9 am – 5 pm.  If you or someone you know requires assistance, please call 075 4342 0639.  No questions asked or criteria to meet.  Follow them on facebook at Sperrinfoodbank or email foodbank@theworkspacegroup.org.

 

TRÓCAIRE SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS 

Are you a retired teacher or someone who has experience presenting to groups of school children?  Do you have a passion for making this world a better place, especially for the most vulnerable?  Trócaire is looking for volunteers to support its School Talks Programme for Lent 2024 in parishes of the Derry Diocese.  If you think you have the right skills and experience and will have a few free hours during Lent, then we would love to hear from you!  For more information, call Casey Schell on 028 9080 8033 or email casey.schell@trocaire.org.

 

MARY’S MEALS – DOUBLE THE LOVE 

Mary’s Meals is keeping the promise of a daily school meal to over 2.4 million children in 18 countries.  Our ‘Double the Love’ Campaign has launched and all donations made to Mary’s Meals until 22^nd January 2024 will be doubled by a group of generous supporters, up to £1 million.  Amongst the many challenges we see in today’s world, from conflict to the cost-of-living crisis, your little acts of love can go further thanks to ‘Double the Love’, bringing hope to desperately hungry children and their families.  Please pray that we can reach even more children around the world with our life-changing school meals this Christmas.  Find out more and browse our Christmas gift cards at marysmeals.org.uk or freephone 0800 698 1212.

 

MASTERS IN CATHOLIC SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

The Derry Diocesan Catechetical Centre, working in Partnership with Saint Mary’s University, Twickenham, offers the Masters in Catholic School Leadership.  This is a post graduate degree dedicated to the professional development and spiritual formation of Catholic school leaders.  It is a great opportunity for those currently in leadership roles and those who aspire to, or have an interest in, leadership roles within the Catholic School system.  There is still time to sign up for the Academic Year 2023/2024.  If you require any further information, please contact the Derry Diocesan Catechetical Centre on 028 7126 4087 or email tferry@derrydiocese.org.

 

MARRIAGE AND RELATIONSHIP COUNSELLING WITH ACCORD NI

Help Accord help you support your marriage and relationship.  If you feel your relationship is in crisis or you need a little guidance and help, either face to face or online, contact your local Accord centre.  Accord NI counsellors are professionally trained in the specialism of couples and relationships counselling.  Every year Accord helps thousands of couples rebuild and sustain healthy relationships.  For support, tel. 028 9023 3002 or visit accordni.com.

 

THE NET – DECEMBER 2023

Sharing the fruits of the faith in the Derry Diocese, the December edition of ‘The Net’ is available in print in parishes as well as on the Diocesan website.  For coverage of faith related stories just email editorthenet15@gmail.com

Coverage in this edition includes:

• Lavey blessing on Bambinelli Sunday

• St. Aengus’ NS stars shine at Burt Carol Service

• Experience true meaning of Christmas – Ballinascreen Live Crib celebrates 800 years since first crib

• Santa Sunday goes down a treat at St Eugene’s

• St. Patrick’s P.S. Castlederg celebrates 50 years of faith, life and learning

• Loreto girls fundraising for Lusaka Tyrone School

• All kinds of wonderful fun for St Eugene’s primary children

• Syro Malabar Community News by John Augustine Joseph

• City parishes blessed through Divine Child Novena

• St. Columba’s Greenlough camogs celebrate 80^th anniversary

• Diocesan Safeguarding Mass

 – Prayer for respectful & life-giving relationships to be hallmark of Church

• Children’s Catechism Club – C3 by Veronica Harley

Young Writers share thoughts on…

*Preparing for Jesus – Light of the World

*Journeying through Advent

*Fire in Christianity

*Finding meaning in the talents God has given us

*Young people engaging in acts of service

*Leading not leaving the Church in time of crisis

*Connecting with God in song lyrics

*COP28 and Pope Francis

*Devotion to St. Pio

• Limavady parishioners enjoy Advent talks and Carol Service Walk

• Banagher folk feeling festive at S.V.P. party

• Cathedral Carols enjoyed by all ages

• Christmas spirit high at Afternoon Tea with Anne Marie and Friends in Cathedral Hall

• Wonderful Golden Jubilee celebration for St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyscullion

• Desertmartin faithful celebrate 50^th anniversary of St. Patrick’s Church

• New Eucharistic Ministers commissioned for Dungiven Parish

• Beautiful new Grotto celebrates St. Mary’s Cloughcor 200^th

• Termonbacca Ladies Prayer Group yet another bud of faith bursting forth in Derry

• Legion of Mary members enjoy inspiring retreat by Tom McDermott

• Flame of faith fanned during Long Tower Men’s Prayer

• Call to keep flame of faith burning in our hearts – Dana reflects on connections with Hill of Slane

• The Rosary meets needs of modern family – to get together to pray – Ven Patrick Peyton

• The Holy Rosary – the prayer we all love by Annie Mullan

• Pilgrimage to Fatima – Reflection and Perspective by John-Martin O’Kane

• Derry reunion for Holy Land pilgrims

• The last priests in Ireland?  I don’t think so! – Fr. Pat O’Hagan spoke on vocations at Long Tower Novena

• Faith not just holding but being re-ignited in Emerald Isle – Reflection by Pat Breslin on Maynooth ‘Come & See’ Weekend

• Dromantine gathering a grace-filled time for Bishop Donal and Diocesan Priests

•  Continue to pray the Lord will send many into the harvest – Vocations update by Fr. Pat O’Hagan

• The Eucharist is the Source and Summit of Synodality and New Evangelization by Rev. Dr. Joseph Karukayil Varghese

• Encounter The Lord in silent retreat by Aoife O’Neill

• Fondly remembering the late Lawrence Moore – A man of strong faith, committed to family, friends and parish

• Lord, help us to build a society that is pleasing to You – Reflection by Shauna Clifford

•  Eternal Echoes…Timeless Truths for today’s hearts by Regina Deighan – Enriching your Advent season

• Waiting for God by Fr. Johnny Doherty CSsR

• Divine Mercy Image explained:  The Gaze of Jesus by Sr Benedetta Hutnikiewicz ZSJM

• ‘All the beauty I see He has given to me and His giving is gentle as silence’ – Fr. John McLaughlin ssc

• Adomnán – 1400^th Anniversary in 2024 by Dr. Seán Beattie, Culdaff

• Parish Post-its

• Diocesan Diary

• …other Diary Dates

• Quiz Time with Lawrence

 

SAFEGUARDING NOTICE

If you have any concerns with regard to Safeguarding children or adults in need of protection within the Church, contact Marie Gormley, the Diocesan Designated Liaison Person (DLP), on 075 9650 0793, or at mariegormley@derrydiocese.org.

Additional contact numbers:  PSNI Tel. 101 or Social Services Western HSC Trust on 028 7131 4090 (ask for Duty Social Worker).

 

STRESS CONTROL ONLINE  

Stress is a normal reaction to the rapidly changing and uncertain times we are all living in at the moment.  If you are feeling a bit more stressed than usual and would like to learn some great ways, free-of-charge, to deal with common problems like anxiety, depression, panicky feelings, poor sleep and poor wellbeing then come along to our online Stress Control class.  ‘Stress Control’ is a six-session cognitive-behavioural therapy class used extensively in community-settings by the NHS (UK) and HSE (Ireland) and across the world.  You can find out more here: https://ni.stresscontrol.org/

As you can’t come to a regular Stress Control class due to the current circumstances, Stress Control will come to you and live stream the sessions.  Each session will be available on the YouTube channel from 9 am and will remain available until 8 am the morning of the next session, e.g. Session One will be available from 9 am on Monday 8^th January and will be taken down at 8 am on Thursday 11^th January.  Session Two will then premiere at 9 am.  The sessions will be led by Dr. Jim White, consultant clinical psychologist, who created the class and who has taught most of the NHS (UK) and HSE (Ireland) trainers who would normally be running classes across the country.

To take part:

 

1. Go to https://ni.stresscontrol.org/ where you can learn more about the class and get the dates. Everything you need to successfully complete the class – the booklets, self-assessment, relaxation and mindfulness – can be found in the ‘Free zone’.  If you can, please read, and start working on, the booklets in the ‘Preparing for the course’ section before Session 1.

 

2. On the homepage, click on the ‘Stress Control Online’ link to access our YouTube channel where the classes will be available to view at the scheduled times. If you click the ‘Subscribe’ button on our YouTube page (free), you will receive notifications when a new session is available.  You can also follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdCfzKgmXbB30baWLv6L5-g

 

3. The session will begin exactly on time, so make sure you are there from the start. Sessions run for about 90 minutes and there will be a 10-minute break in the middle.

 

4. Each session is one piece of the jigsaw in tackling your Stress. By coming to each class, the jigsaw will form, and the big picture can emerge, making you better able to handle your stress.  This is cognitive-behavioural therapy so it is crucial you practice the skills you will learn between sessions.

 

Life is very hard for us just now and there are no easy solutions or magic cures, but, with hard work and determination, we can boost our resilience to cope with these difficult times and come out the other end stronger. Please pass this on to anyone who you think might benefit from the class.