Westport Parish

MAYO PUBLIC PARTICIPATION NETWORK Do you have a community event or activity coming up? Avail of FREE advertising with Mayo PPN. It’s simple – email [email protected] and include a Jpeg poster.Mayo PPN will be delighted to promote to their 1000 plus community groups. BREAKTHROUGH CANCER RESEARCH: 19th of Sept. will be holding a bucket collection in Westport for Breakthrough Cancer Research looking for volunteers that might like to join us on the day, shake a bucket and raise money for the organisation. If you require any further information please don't hesitate to call or email me@ [email protected] My phone number is (021) 422 6655. GROW IN LOVE MASS: Is on Saturday 21st September Lecanvey Church at 8.00pm and Westport Sunday 22nd September @11.00am PRIESTS AUTUMN COLLECTION: Thanks to everyone who contributed so generously to the Priests Autumn Collection. This is one of 4 collections in the year to pay the Priests and Bishop’s salary. GRÁSTA: Preparing for Marriage? Weekend residential course available. 20-22 September 2024. Details: www.grasta.org or at [email protected] 2024 THE YEAR OF PRAYER: A study course on prayer and the Commandments based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church will take place in Ballinrobe Parish centre beginning Tuesday 17th September at 8pm. It will also take place on Zoom at 9pm on Wednesdays. For further information call 087 2639726 DÓCHAS’S GRÁ: You are invited to the Launch of Music and songs from Ballintubber Abbey Choir Thursday 19th September 7.30p.m. Ballintubber Abbey. LOCAL LINK NEW BUS ROUTE: From Westport Urban area to Town Centre every Thursday morning. Phone 087-2202123/087-6542445 BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP: Life after a bereavement can feel empty and lonely. Sometimes spending time with others who know the experience can be helpful. Trained facilitators conduct a weekly Bereavement Support Group meeting at the Family Centre, knock each Wednesday at 11am.No booking required. Further information from Monica Morley on 094- 9375320. BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: Saturday 5th October in Murrisk Car Park at 2.00pm. All Welcome. STATUES: Painting, restoring and reconstruction of catholic religious only statues, Contact Silvina at 087-3972402 THE SEASON OF CREATION ECO CONGREGATION: The Earth is our home, and this season reminds us that it is a gift worth cherishing. Some Actions to consider, knowing that our small actions when combined, can create a ripple of change that extends far beyond ourselves. Refuse packaging where possible: bring your own containers and refill. Bring box to butcher/fishmonger also. Repair and maintain clothes/equipment/tools to prolong their lives Carry your own reusable water bottle and a reusable coffee cup! Spend less time in the shower. Buy Fairtrade products that are ethically and sustainably sourced when possible. *** end

Our 6 week, hands-on, horticultural course is packed with activities that will help you cultivate your gardening skills while enjoying nature! Over the next few weeks, we’ll cover a variety of exciting topics including planting and pruning fruit bushes, tending and planting the vegetable garden and spring bulbs, exploring Irish medicinal plants and soap making, and getting creative with painting tiles and making window boxes, all expertly guided by tutors from Westport Community Garden. 6 week course, Thursdays from 10am – 12pm, starting 19th September. 📍 Location: Quay Community Garden Westport , Quay Community Centre Cost: Free! Come join us! Whether you’re a beginner or have a green thumb, there's something for everyone 🌼 To book your place, please contact Katerina on 089 2013535 / [email protected] (you may not receive a reply immediately so please have patience)

A little historical read... THE DEANERY OF WESTPORT. Parish of Westport. The prominent place of the parish of Westport in the ecclesiastical history of the archdiocese, and indeed in the ecclesiastical history of Ireland, is unquestioned. There is some doubt about St. Patrick having visited other parishes and other districts, but there is none about his having visited the parish of Westport. On his western journey he went north to Rahins near Castlebar, and then, turning to the southwest, he passed by Aughagower to Cruach-an-Aigle, which was the ancient name for Croaghpatrick. At the foot of the mountain, in the plain of Mutrisk, and between the mountain and the sea, his charioteer Totmael died, and there St. Patrick buried him and raised a cairn of stones over his grave. Then, on Shrove Saturday, the Saturday before Ash Wednesday, he ascended the mountain, and during the whole forty days of Lent he was engaged in fasting and prayer on the lonely summit of the hill. If scenery could bring him pleasure he ought to have been well content; for there was a wide stretch before him, even on the land side, and westward there was the limitless sea with Clew Bay and its myriad islands at his feet. On Cruach-an-Aigle his prayers were long, his fasting severe, his sufferings from wind and rain and cold and lonely vigils not easy to be borne. But he persevered, obtaining from God the favour that the faith of Ireland would never fail. from: HISTORY of THE ARCHDIOCESE OF TUAM By THE RIGHT REV. MONSIGNOR D'ALTON 1928 You can read the entire Chapter XIV by following this link:

On August 10, 2019, Barbara Rabbitte, the historian and tour guide in Westport, provided an insightful discussion about the church’s beautiful and historically significant windows. As a passionate advocate for preserving the rich history of the parish, Barbara highlighted the intricate craftsmanship of the stained glass windows, explaining their religious symbolism and the stories they depict. Her talk offered parishioners and visitors alike a deeper understanding of the artistic and cultural heritage embedded in the church, connecting the past with the present through these remarkable works of sacred art.

Do you have clothes sitting in your closet that you no longer wear? Are you looking for a way to give back to your community while decluttering your wardrobe? Look no further! Westport Family and Community Resource Centre has two convenient clothing bins near The Towers Bar and Restaurant Westport where you can donate your gently used clothing. Not only will you be clearing out space in your closet, but you'll also be supporting valuable community projects. Here are five compelling reasons why you should consider donating to these clothing bins: 1. Supporting Local Initiatives When you donate your clothing to Westport Family and Community Resource Centre's bins, you are directly contributing to supporting local initiatives that benefit the community. Your donations help fund projects and programs that have a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families in need. By simply dropping off your unwanted clothes, you are making a difference right in your own backyard. 2. Environmental Impact By donating your clothing, you are participating in sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Instead of throwing away clothes that end up in landfills, your donations are given a second life. By extending the lifespan of clothing through donations, you are helping reduce textile waste and its environmental impact. Your small act of donation can make a big difference in promoting sustainability. 3. Promoting Reuse and Recycling Donating your clothing to Westport Family and Community Resource Centre's bins promotes the concept of reuse and recycling. Your clothes can be sorted, repaired if needed, and redistributed to those who can benefit from them. This cycle of reuse not only helps individuals in need but also minimizes the demand for new clothing production, ultimately reducing the strain on valuable resources. 4. Declutter Your Wardrobe Donating your clothes is a fantastic way to declutter your wardrobe and make space for items that you truly love and wear. By donating clothes that no longer serve you, you are creating a more organized and intentional closet. The act of decluttering can bring a sense of satisfaction and lightness, knowing that your clothing will find new purpose and bring joy to others. 5. Simple and Convenient Donating to Westport Family and Community Resource Centre's clothing bins is an easy and convenient way to give back to your community. With the bins located near The Towers Bar and Restaurant Westport, you can drop off your donations at your convenience without any hassle. Your simple act of generosity can have a significant impact on the lives of those in need. So, what are you waiting for? Gather those clothing items that deserve a new home and head over to the clothing bins near The Towers Bar and Restaurant Westport. Your donations will not only support valuable community projects but also make a positive difference in the lives of others. Join us in spreading kindness and generosity one piece of clothing at a time!

Introduction to the Reek by The Sleepy Scholar In 2024 in 2022 in 2000 in 1995 in 1980's in 1974 in 1964 in 1962 in 1961 in 1950

MAYO PUBLIC PARTICIPATION NETWORK Do you have a community event or activity coming up? Avail of FREE advertising with Mayo PPN. It’s simple – email [email protected] and include a Jpeg poster. Mayo PPN will be delighted to promote to their 1000 plus community groups. BREAKTHROUGH CANCER RESEARCH: On the 19th of September we will be holding a bucket collection in Westport for Breakthrough Cancer Research and we are looking for volunteers that might like to join us on the day, shake a bucket and raise money for the organisation. Monies from this collection are used to support focused research programmes, directly fund scientists, and purchase laboratory equipment and consumables. If you require any further information please don't hesitate to call or email me @ [email protected] My phone number is (021) 422 6655. PRIESTS AUTUMN COLLECTION: Will be taken up this weekend. Thanks for your continued support, this is one of 4 collections in the year to pay the Priests and Bishop’s salary. IRISH BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE NEW BLOOD DONERS NEEDED Clinic attending The Castlecourt Hotel on Monday 9th, Tuesday 10th & Wednesday 11th September Times 15.50pm – 20.10pm. To make an appointment call 1800 222 111 PRAYER FOR THE SEASON OF CREATION: Lord, show us how to change. Show us how to do things well today. So that others may not suffer, here and there, now and in the future. Show us how to make our contribution as we change the way we live. The way we travel. The way we make and consume. The way we distribute and sell. The way we use and reuse Energy and products. Show us how to do simple things well in our home, places of work and daily lives. Show us how to protect the world you made, with all its diversity and goodness. Help us to save it from our carbon emissions, global warming, climate change, rising temperatures and sea levels, the displacement of peoples, environmental poverty, harm and destruction. Show us how and show us why. So that alone and with others our contribution will make a difference. We offer this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen Robin Morrison (From “A Heart for Creation” Chris Polhill) *** end

Hey there history enthusiasts! If you've ever wondered about the fascinating history behind St. Mary's Church in Westport, you're in for a treat today. Barbara Rabbitte , the esteemed Westport's historian and tour guide, shares her insights and knowledge on the intriguing past of this iconic structure in a captivating video made by Dr. Oliver Snr. Whyte 10.08.2019. Let's embark on a journey through time as we delve into the rich historical tapestry woven within the walls of St. Mary's Church.

A little of recent history... " A congregational rendition of "Queen Of The May", led by Emer Berry, in St. Mary's Church, Westport after the 1916 commemorative mass conducted by Fr. Karl Burns. 08.05.2016"

MAYO PUBLIC PARTICIPATION NETWORK Do you have a community event or activity coming up? Avail of FREE advertising with Mayo PPN. It’s simple – email [email protected] and include a Jpeg poster. Mayo PPN will be delighted to promote to their 1000 plus community groups. WESTPORT GNC (GOOD NEWS CLUB) Would like to remind Families of School Going Children from 1st Class onwards that we will resume Sunday Morning Club at 11.00a.m. Mass on 1st September. Welcome back and let’s look forward to a great year ahead. BREAKTHROUGH CANCER RESEARCH On the 19th of September we will be holding a bucket collection in Westport for Breakthrough Cancer Research and we are looking for volunteers that might like to join us on the day, shake a bucket and raise money for the organisation. Monies from this collection are used to support focused research programmes, directly fund scientists, and purchase laboratory equipment and consumables. If you require any further information please don't hesitate to call or email me @ [email protected] My phone number is (021) 422 6655. MAYO RECOVERY COLLEGE: Will facilitate a suite of mental health & wellbeing modules taking place on the following dates throughout July in Castlebar (online option also) Thurs 25th 5pm ‘Happiness & Contentment’. Call/Text Karen McHale 0860294901 or email [email protected] to register. www.recoverycollegewest.ie New & existing participants are warmly invited to attend. LATIN MASS: The Latin Mass Pilgrimage to Knock takes place on Saturday September 7 commencing with a sung Latin Mass at 2pm, followed by Stations of the Cross and Benediction. The Mass will be in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. The next monthly Mass takes place on Sunday September 8 in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel Knock at 6pm ANAM CARA BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT: Anam Cara are holding an On-Line Bereavement Information Evening on Tuesday 3rd of September at 7pm.For further details please contact 01-4045378 *** end

The Mayo News on the 1st of August 1959 reported OVER 60,000 people climbed Croagh Patrick on the occasion of the annual pilgrimage on Sunday. Of that number almost 10,000 received Holy Communion in and around the mist-shrouded Oratory on the summit. From 4am until noon, Masses - several at a time were being celebrated by upwards of 60 priests. Many in the vast throng made the climb in their bare feet, and groups joined in reciting the Rosary aloud on the upward journey. Pilgrims had mixed luck with the weather. After one of the most beautiful days of the year, rain fell in a deluge shortly after midnight, and for 90 minutes drenched the thousands strung out among the mountain slopes or clustered on the peak around the rocks. Traffic, while heavy, was kept on the move by a strong force of Gardaí, and CIE geared their arrangements so neatly that pilgrims hardly had time to have a 'look around' the place. The sudden rains added to the difficult work of the Order of Malta whose 150 members attended to 15 accident cases, six of which necessitated hospital attention. During the morning, His Grace the Archbishop of Tuam, Most Rev Dr J Walsh welcomed the pilgrims, as did the Administrator Very Rev Fr Thomas Cummins. On the mountain-top, pilgrims were received by Fr T Cruise, CC, Lecanvey. Local stewards, under the supervision of Mr Austin Gannon, again did admirable work on the mountain in lessening the strain on pilgrims during the various ceremonies. The Order of Malta units were in the charge of Dr Des Moran, Medical Officer, Westport, and Dr Betty O'Malley, Westport. Adjt William Lyons, Westport, was in charge of organisation. The following injured during the pilgrimage were taken to Castlebar Hospital: Mrs Mary Higgins, Cloon- curry, Knock (leg fracture); Mr Anthony Derrig, Moyhastin, Westport, and Peter Walsh, Clogher, Westport, who were injured when their motor- cycle crashed on the way to West- port; Andrew Carr, 14 Malmount Square, Drogheda, who collapsed on the mountain; R Sweeney, Pollagh, Keel (shoulder injury); Garda John Moran, Cong, involved in a collision with a car while on duty at Murrisk. Among those who made the climb were 10-year-old Ann Gavin, Fr Angelus Park, Westport; 13-year-old Patsy Hanley, Bushfield, Charlestown; [and] 12-year-old Patrick Fitzpatrick, Garryedmond, Claremorris... Speaking in St Mary's, Westport, His Grace, Most Rev Dr Walsh, Arch- bishop of Tuam, welcomed the pilgrims and asked them not to forget the persecuted faithful behind the Iron Curtain. August 1, 1959 see as well from RTE archives: https://www.rte.ie/archives/2015/0724/716927-60-000-climb-croagh-patrick/?imz_s=9pi2507n7qpam77voi3kogjnp0 "With Croagh Patrick shrouded in mist, 60,000 people, some barefoot climb the mountain. Croagh Patrick known locally as the Reek is 2,510 feet high, almost 3 miles from base to peak, and takes 3 hours to climb. It is believed that the mountain was the site of a pagan pilgrimage before it became associated with St Patrick who it is said fasted on the summit for forty days. Thousands climb Croagh Patrick every year on the last Sunday in July which is known as Reek Sunday. Many complete the pilgrimage in their bare feet. An RTÉ News report broadcast on 25 July 1965. The footage shown here is mute."

Listen again to the story of the #CroaghPatrick chalice returned this year 2024 from the Diocese of Menevia in Wales, for the celebration of the masses on #ReekSunday. St Patrick Pray For Us!