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.

 

 

 

PARISH BULLETIN – FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY – 31^st December 2023

 

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, Friday and Saturday ~ 10 am. [webcam]

 

St. Patrick’s, Keenaught:  Friday ~ 7.30 pm.

 

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

 

St. Columba’s, Straw:  Saturday ~ 9 am.

 

St. Patrick’s, Sixtowns:  Saturday ~ 11 am.

 

St. Eugene’s, Moneyneena:  Saturday ~ 12 noon.

 

 

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:

 

Hugh McGuckin, Carncose Road; Bridget McKay, Maghera; Michelle Cartin, Park and Vincent McHenry, Ballycastle whose funerals were held during the week.

 

Elizabeth O’Connor, Bridget Stokes, Conor Kerr, Evelyn Haskins, Paul Crilly, Sadie Hennighan, Padraic O’Kane, James McEldowney, Nan Higgins, Michael Crilly, Francis Conway, Austin Quinn, Thomas Toner, Michael Gallagher and Joe Dickson who died recently.

 

Mary McCullagh, Moorside Villas, whose Month’s Mind occurs at this time.

 

Mickey McDaid, Joe McKenna, Bonnie Storey, Cassie Ryan, Baby Rossa Brendan Foley, Elizabeth Shaw, Fintan Scullin, Brendan Burns, Mary Burns and Brendan Kelly whose anniversaries occur at this time.

 

____________________________________________________________

 

The Priests of Desertmartin and Ballinascreen Parishes wish all Parishioners every Grace and Blessing in 2024

 

THANK YOU for your generous contributions to the Parish.  Last Week:  Sunday/Priest’s Collection envelopes:  £1,459.00.  Thank you to those who contribute to the parish by direct debit.

 

CHRISTMAS BOX COLLECTION

Fr. McGirr wishes to express his sincere thanks and deep appreciation to the people of the parish for their great kindness and generosity in the Priests’ Christmas Box Collection.

 

FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY

 

Saturday 6^th January is the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord.  The Epiphany is the manifestation of Jesus as Messiah of Israel, Son of God and Saviour of the world.  Masses for the Holyday are:

 

VIGIL MASSES on Friday 5^th January

7.30 pm ~ Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen

7.30 pm ~ St. Patrick’s, Keenaught

 

MASSES on Saturday 6^th January

9 am ~ St. Columba’s, Straw

10 am ~ St. Mary’s, Coolcalm

11 am ~ St. Patrick’s, Sixtowns

12 noon ~ St. Eugene’s, Moneyneena

 

SATURDAY VIGIL MASSES

6 pm ~ Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen

7.30 pm ~ St. Patrick’s, Keenaught

 

 

 

 

TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS 2023 DRAW WINNERS

 

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, Brackagh  (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, Brackagh  (No. 0467)

 

Draws will continue for each of the 12 days between Christmas Day and Friday 5^th January 2024.

 

PRIZES ~ on the first 10 days there are 3 prizes each day of £100.  On 11^th Day the draw will be for 2 prizes of £500 and on the 12^th and last Day of Christmas there is one final prize of £1,000.

 

Good luck to everyone entered in the Twelve Days of Christmas Draw.  All winners will be listed on the Parish Website and in next weekend’s bulletin.  A sincere thank you to all those who sold tickets over these past weeks and to everyone for supporting the Draw this year.

 

 

NORTHERN/WESTERN TRUST FOSTER CARE TEAM

The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph no doubt experienced many of the same joys and struggles as any other family.  Indeed Mary and Joseph struggled to find somewhere safe and warm to have their child.  Although there was no room for them, our traditional narrative tells us of a kindly innkeeper, who pointed them to the stable where Jesus was born.

 

Today, on this Feast of the Holy Family we pray for foster carers, and that more people will consider fostering as an option, to generously opening their hearts and their homes to provide care, support and love to children in need.  Foster carers are ordinary people who make an extraordinary difference to the lives of those children and young people who, for a variety of reasons, are unable to live with their birth families.  There are many challenges and reasons leading to children and young people requiring foster care:  sometimes material poverty and hardship; sometimes parental struggles due to relationship difficulties or addictions.

 

Unfortunately, there are times when there are no available spaces for foster care placements.  The HSC NI Foster Team is urgently seeking more people to think seriously about fostering.  On this Feast of the Holy Family, do you think you can make that extraordinary difference to a child’s life?  If you think you can help or if you have any questions at all in relation to fostering, please make contact with the Team:  Tel. 0800 0720 137 or email info@fostering.hscni.net.

 

KNOCKNAGIN HALL ACTIVITIES

Chair Exercise, Knit and Natter, Line Dancing are stopped for Christmas break.  Will recommence again in January 2024.

Yoga Classes starting on Monday 8^th January 2024 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.

The Hall Committee wishes to thank everyone who attended functions in the hall or supported us in any way this year.  It is very much appreciated and we look forward to your continued support in 2024.  Hopefully you will all have a good Christmas and a successful new year.

 

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.

 

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.

 

 

 

PARISH BULLETIN – 4^th SUNDAY OF ADVENT – 24^th December 2023

 

SUNDAY MASSES NEXT WEEKEND

 

SATURDAY VIGIL

St. Eugene’s, Moneyneena:                6 pm

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

Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen:               12 noon [webcam]

 

 

WEEKDAY MASSES THIS WEEK

 

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

 

Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen:  Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday ~ 12 noon; 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:

 

Elizabeth O’Connor, Magherafelt and Boveagh; Bridget Stokes, Campbelltown; Conor Kerr, Maghera; Evelyn Haskins, Dunmurry; Paul Crilly, Dungannon and Sadie Hennighan, Dungiven whose funerals were held during the week.

 

Padraic O’Kane, James McEldowney, Nan Higgins, Michael Crilly, Francis Conway, Austin Quinn, Thomas Toner, Michael Gallagher, Joe Dickson, Mary Trainor, Sean O’Neill, Bridget Kearney, Mary McCullagh and Johnny McKenna who died recently.

 

Darren McDaid, Bridie Murray, Jim Joe Kelly, Cissie Higgins, Brian Higgins, Patricia McSwiggan, Mary Kerr, Agnes Higgins, Joseph McHugh, Felix Pat Bradley, Mary Bradley, Gordon Gaskill, Sheila Gaskill, Fr. Gerry McCaul, Kevin McCaul, Camilla McCaul, Harry Dunlop and Pat McGirr whose anniversaries occur at this time.

 

MONTH’S MIND MASS

The Month’s Mind for Mary McCullagh, Moorside Villas, will be on Friday 29^th December.

 

____________________________________________________________

 

THANK YOU for your generous contributions to the Parish.

Last Week:  Sunday/Priest’s Collection envelopes:  £927.80.

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

 

BAPTISM

We welcome into God’s family through the Sacrament of Baptism:

Charlie Peter Allen, 26 Northland Road, Moneymore and Olly Brian Higgins, 34 Motalee Road.

 

 

Masses for this Christmas Week

 

SUNDAY Masses ~ 24^th December

9 am ~ St. Columba’s Church, Straw

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

 

CHRISTMAS Vigil Masses ~ Sunday 24^th December

5 pm ~ St. Eugene’s Church, Moneyneena

6 pm ~ Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen [webcam]

7.30 pm ~ St. Patrick’s Church, Keenaught

8 pm ~ St. Columba’s Church, Straw

8 pm ~ St. Patrick’s Church, Sixtowns

 

CHRISTMAS DAY Masses ~ Monday 25^th December

9 am ~ St. Columba’s Church, Straw

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

11 am ~ St. Patrick’s Church, Sixtowns

12 noon ~ Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen.

 

 

DAILY MASS TIMES THIS WEEK

Tuesday 26^th December

12 noon ~ Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen

 

Wednesday 27^th December

12 noon ~ Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen

 

Thursday 28^th December

12 noon ~ Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen

 

Friday 29^th December

10 am ~ St. Mary’s, Coolcalm

7.30 pm ~ Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen

 

PIONEERS

Pioneers around the world are invited to attend Mass on Wednesday 27^th December and to prayerfully mark the 125^th anniversary of the foundation of the Association in 1898.  Mass and prayers will be live-streamed on that day at 10 am (Irish time) around the world via www.pioneerassociation.org.

 

 

TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS 2023 DRAW

 

The FIRST DRAWS will take place at the end of the 10 am Mass in St. Mary’s, Coolcalm on Christmas Day

 

There will be draws every day of the 12 days between Christmas Day and Friday 5^th January 2024.  As before, everyone’s ticket will be in for All the draws, which means you have 33 chances to win prizes.  Total prize fund is £5,000.  TICKETS are £20 each, available from:

• from McGirr at the Parochial House, 50 Tobermore Road

• Heron’s Gift Shop, Draperstown

• Moneyneena Post Office

 

PRIZES ~ on the first 10 days there are 3 prizes each day of £100.  On 11^th Day the draw will be for 2 prizes of £500 and on the 12^th and last Day of Christmas there is one final prize of £1,000.

Good luck to everyone who has entered the Twelve Days of Christmas Draw.  Winners will be listed on the Parish Website and in next weekend’s bulletin. A sincere thank you to all those who sold tickets over these past weeks and to everyone for supporting the Draw this year.

 

 

 

TIRGAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Slieve Gallion Challenge – Boxing Day 10 km to mountain top and back.  Registration 9 am.  Run starts 10 am.  Registration online or day of event £10 p.p.  3.5 km Family Walk £5 p.p.  Prizes.  Refreshments.  Proceeds in aid of Tirgan Community Association.  https://www.eventbrite.ie/manage/events/468337950417/details

 

KNOCKNAGIN HALL ACTIVITIES

Boxing Night Social Dance on Tuesday 26^th December.  9 pm – Midnight.  Music by Country Sounds.  Admission £7 including light supper.

Chair Exercise, Knit and Natter, Line Dancing are stopped for Christmas break.  Will recommence again in January 2024.

Yoga Classes starting on Monday 8^th January 2024 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.

The Hall Committee wishes to thank everyone who attended functions in the hall or supported us in any way this year.  It is very much appreciated and we look forward to your continued support in 2024.  Hopefully you will all have a good Christmas and a successful new year.

 

SIXTOWNS DANCE

Christmas Social Dance in Sixtowns Cross Community Centre on Friday 29^th December at 9.30 pm.  Music by Liam McLaughlin and Bríd Gallagher.  Everyone welcome.

 

LIVE CRIB 2023 OPEN INVITATION TO ALL

Everyone is very welcome to come and discover the true meaning of Christmas at St. Eugene’s Church, Moneyneena next Saturday 30^th December.  The day will commence with Mass at 10 am at which Bishop McKeown will be the chief celebrant.  Following this Mass, the Live Crib will be operational all day in the Church grounds until the closing candlelit Mass and Benediction at 6 pm.  Refreshments will be served all day.  This is a free event but voluntary donations to necessary repair work on St Eugene’s Church are welcome.

 

LIVE CRIB VENUE

If you wish to donate home bakes, biscuits, etc. to be served in the Tea Tent at the Live Crib event please bring your food donation to the Tea Tent which will be erected next to the Parochial House in Moneyneena.  Food may be dropped off on Friday 29^th December between 3 pm and 5 pm or preferably on Saturday morning after 9 am.

As part of this special parish event Eucharistic Adoration will take place within St. Eugene’s Church.  It will commence after 10 am Mass and conclude at 5.30 pm.  If you are willing to commit to at least 30 minutes of Adoration, please email your name and your chosen half-hour or hour for Adoration, to the Ballinascreen Parish Office at:  ballinascreenparish@gmail.com

 

ST. COLM’S HIGH SCHOOL DRAW

Week 9

£30 Cillian Maneely (Collector – Ryan McGovern)

£50 Donna Bradley (Collector – James McNally)

£100 Clíodhna McNicholl (Collector – Clíodhna McNicholl)

Week 10

£100 Andrea Glass (Collector – Tracey McCool)

£200 Darren Kelly (Collector – Kaitlyn & Kyla Kelly)

£500 Sean McGlade (Collector – Conan Devlin)

£500 Maureen Church (Collector – Mickey Cuskeran)

 

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, Keenaught

• 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).

 

 

 

 

PARISH BULLETIN – 3^rd SUNDAY OF ADVENT – 17^th December 2023

 

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  

 

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

 

Holy Rosary, Ballinascreen:  Monday and Wednesday ~ 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.

 

SVP Helpline:  077 1083 8050

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DEATHS AND ANNIVERSARIES

Please remember in your prayers:

 

Padraic O’Kane, St. Patrick’s Street; James McEldowney, Moykeeran Crescent; Nan Higgins, Maghera; Michael Crilly, Limavady; Francis Conway, Rouskey; Austin Quinn, Cookstown; Thomas Toner, The Ward, Meath; Michael Gallagher, Larne and Joe Dickson, Dunlogan Road whose funerals were held during the week.

 

Mary Trainor, Sean O’Neill, Bridget Kearney, Mary McCullagh and Johnny McKenna who died recently.

 

Francie Shields, 122 Tobermore Road whose Month’s Mind occurs at this time.

 

Ellen McIvor, Joe Marshall, Gerry Maguire, Jim Reilly, Jeannie Reilly, Henry O’Neill, Briege McGurk, Peter Kearney, Frankie McCann, Edward McGurk, Katie McGurk and Agnes Walls whose anniversaries occur at this time.

 

MONTH’S MIND MASS

The Month’s Mind Mass for Jim McGuigan, St. Patrick’s Street, will be celebrated on Friday 22^nd December at 7.30 pm in Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen.

 

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THANK YOU for your generous contributions to the Parish.

Last Week:  Sunday/Priest’s Collection envelopes:  £735.50.

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

 

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY

If you would like to make a donation to the St. Vincent de Paul Christmas Collection, place your donation in an envelope marked SVP and drop it in the collection box at Sunday Mass or put it through the Parochial House letterbox at any time.  The Society greatly appreciates all donations received so for this year’s Christmas Collection.

 

BAPTISM

We welcome into God’s family through the Sacrament of Baptism:

Cara Rose O’Hagan, 40 Gortahurk Road.

 

SICK VISITATION

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

 

BALLINASCREEN PARISH CAROL SERVICE

Annual Ballinascreen Parish Carol Service takes place today, Sunday 17^th December, at 6 pm in the Holy Rosary Church.  Everyone welcome.  During the Carol Service a collection of non-perishable food items and toys will be taken up on behalf of the St. Vincent de Paul Society and Sperrin Food Bank.  This year’s appeal is more important than in previous years as the demand is much greater.  Please remember this appeal when shopping this week. Thank you.

 

 

CONFESSIONS FOR CHRISTMAS

Penitential Services:

Monday 18^th December at 7 30 pm in Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen

Tuesday 19^th December at 7.30 pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Keenaught.  All welcome.

 

Confessions:

Friday 22^nd December in St. Mary’s Church, Coolcalm after 10 am Mass until 12 noon and in Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen from 6.30 pm until 7.25 pm.

Saturday 23^rd December in Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen at 11 am and before the 6 pm Vigil Mass, and in St. Patrick’s Church, Keenaught before the 7.30 pm Mass.

 

 

MASSES ON 23^rd, 24^th AND 25^th DECEMBER

 

Saturday Vigil ~ 23^rd December

6 pm ~ Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen [webcam]

7.30 pm ~ St. Patrick’s Church, Keenaught

 

Sunday Masses ~ 24^th December

9 am ~ St. Columba’s Church, Straw

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

 

CHRISTMAS Vigil Masses ~ Sunday 24^th December

5 pm ~ St. Eugene’s Church, Moneyneena

6 pm ~ Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen [webcam]

7.30 pm ~ St. Patrick’s Church, Keenaught

8 pm ~ St. Columba’s Church, Straw

8 pm ~ St. Patrick’s Church, Sixtowns

 

CHRISTMAS DAY Masses ~ Monday 25^th December

9 am ~ St. Columba’s Church, Straw

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

11 am ~ St. Patrick’s Church, Sixtowns

12 noon ~ Holy Rosary Church, Ballinascreen.

 

 

 

TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS 2023 DRAW

 

The Parish is having its CHRISTMAS DRAW again this year.  There will be draws every day of the 12 days between Christmas Day and Friday 5^th January 2024.  As before, everyone’s ticket will be in for All the draws, which means you have 33 chances to win prizes.  Total prize fund is £5,000.  TICKETS are £20 each, available from:

• the Churches before and after Mass

• Desertmartin Parish Office on a Wednesday and Thursday between 10.30 am and 3 pm

• from McGirr at the Parochial House, 50 Tobermore Road

• Heron’s Gift Shop, Draperstown

• Moneyneena Post Office

A ticket would make a nice Christmas gift to send inside your Christmas cards to members of your family and friends this Christmastime.

If anyone anywhere would like a Ticket Posted to them, please contact Fr. McGirr on 028 7963 2196 or email desertmartinparish@gmail.com

PRIZES ~ on the first 10 days there are 3 prizes each day of £100.  On 11^th Day the draw will be for 2 prizes of £500 and on the 12^th and last Day of Christmas there is one final prize of £1,000.  Please let your family and friends know about our special Christmas Draw.

Thank you for all your very generous support of the Draw last Christmas.  This year’s Draw will be essential to helping with the basic running of the parish into 2024 and with maintenance work being done at both our parish churches.  Good luck to everyone who enters the Twelve Days of Christmas Draw.

 

DESERTMARTIN GAC

Christmas Draw Star Prize tickets are now in circulation.  Visit Desertmartin GAC Facebook page for links to buy your tickets online.

 

KNOCKNAGIN HALL ACTIVITIES

Boxing Night Social Dance on Tuesday 26^th December.  9 pm – Midnight.  Music by Country Sounds.

Flower Arranging on Sunday 17^th December at 3 pm and Monday 18^th December at 7 pm with Mary supported by Public Health Agency.  Need to bring your own materials.  Registration is necessary.

Chair Exercise, Knit and Natter, Line Dancing are stopped for Christmas break.  Will recommence again in January 2024.

Yoga Classes starting on Monday 8^th January 2024 at 10 am.  Numbers limited.  Registration is necessary.

Come along to any of the above actives and enjoy a fun way to exercise, keep fit and improve your health and wellbeing.

Read Yourself Well.  Books by wellness experts and doctors are available to borrow for free at the Parish Hall during any of the above activities.

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 Band 2024 Calendar now on sale, £7 each, can be bought from any band member.  Monthly Draw, December winner, £50 to Mary Connery, Tirgan Road.  Extra draw for paid up members, £50 to Paul and Marie O’Hagan, Brackagh Road.  Tickets for 2024 Draw now on sale.  £1 a month, £12 for the year, £50 prize every month.

Band Practice continues every Thursday at 7.30 pm.  New and past members welcome.

 

TIRGAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Slieve Gallion Challenge – Boxing Day 10 km to mountain top and back.  Registration 9 am.  Run starts 10 am.  Registration online or day of event £10 p.p.  3.5 km Family Walk £5 p.p.  Prizes.  Refreshments.  Proceeds in aid of Tirgan Community Association.  https://www.eventbrite.ie/manage/events/468337950417/details

 

LIVE CRIB 2023

Everyone is very welcome to come and discover the true meaning of Christmas at St. Eugene’s Church, Moneyneena on Saturday 30^th December.  The day will commence with Mass at 10 am at which Bishop McKeown will be the chief celebrant.  Following this Mass, the Live Crib will be operational all day in the Church grounds until the closing candlelit Mass and Benediction at 6 pm.  Refreshments will be served all day.  This is a free event but voluntary donations to necessary repair work on St Eugene’s Church are welcome.

 

LIVE CRIB VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Many thanks to all who have already volunteered to help or provide food at the Live Crib event on 30^th December.  More offers please of biscuits, buns, etc. to serve with the tea and coffee would be greatly appreciated.

As part of this special parish event Eucharistic Adoration will take place within St. Eugene’s Church.  It will commence after 10 am Mass and conclude at 5.30 pm.  If you are willing to commit to at least 30 minutes of Adoration, please email your name and your chosen half-hour or hour for Adoration, to the Ballinascreen Parish Office at:  ballinascreenparish@gmail.com

 

ST. COLM’S HIGH SCHOOL DRAW

Week 9

£30 Cillian Maneely (Collector – Ryan McGovern)

£50 Donna Bradley (Collector – James McNally)

£100 Clíodhna McNicholl (Collector – Clíodhna McNicholl)

Week 10

£100 Andrea Glass (Collector – Tracey McCool)

£200 Darren Kelly (Collector – Kaitlyn & Kyla Kelly)

£500 Sean McGlade (Collector – Conan Devlin)

£500 Maureen Church (Collector – Mickey Cuskeran)

 

KILCRONAGHAN CENTRE

Christmas Cookery Demonstrations and Tasting, all 10 am – 12 noon.  £7 – Tuesday 19^th December.  Text/WhatsApp/ring 078 2196 3749.  Kilcronaghan Gift vouchers also available to any value and can be used for classes in 2024.

 

COMMUNITY HUB NOTICES

Warm Welcome Wednesday Christmas Luncheon Club offering FREE Christmas lunch for over 60s and the chance to meet and chat to others on Wednesday 20^th December in Workspace Community Hub, 11 am – 2 pm.  Food served about 12.30 pm.  Only 30 places available so booking is essential.  To confirm your place, contact Workspace on 028 7962 8113 by 12 noon on Monday 18^th December.

 

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.

 

LOUGH DERG ONLINE CHRISTMAS SHOP

Online Lough Derg Christmas Shop is now open at www.loughderg.live/shop : Mass Bouquets, Christmas Cards, the limited edition Lough Derg Christmas Candle, a large range of Nativity Sets and other gifts are available.  The Christmas shop provides much needed financial income to support the mission and ministry of Lough Derg outside of the Pilgrimage Season.  Thank you for your support.

 

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.

 

QUB HOLY LAND PILGRIMAGE

The Catholic Chaplaincy at Queen’s University Belfast will lead a Pilgrimage to the Holy Land for alumni and friends.  Departing 9^th February 2024 for 8 nights with half-board accommodation in 4 star hotels in Jerusalem and Nazareth, this promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip.  The Pilgrimage’s Spiritual Director will be Queen’s Chaplain, Fr. Dominic McGrattan, with music and song provided by the Chaplaincy’s Director of Sacred Music, celebrated soprano, Marcella Walsh.  In addition to a rich itinerary which includes visits to the principal sacred sites, we will also visit the Holy Family Maternity Hospital in Bethlehem and the Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem.  If you would like to know more information including price, itinerary and how to book, please email Chaplaincy Director, Shannon Campbell, at catholicchaplaincy@qub.ac.uk

 

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).