Westport Parish

WHAT IS WORLD MISSION SUNDAY: World Mission Sunday is the Holy Father’s annual appeal to support overseas mission and missionaries. It takes place in every single parish worldwide where the Church is present. In Ireland, Missio Ireland is tasked with organising the Mission Sunday collection. Missio Ireland is the Pope’s official charity for overseas mission. World Mission Sunday this year is on October 20th 2024. https://missio.ie/world-mission-sunday/ 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. EXPLORING PRIESTHOOD OPEN DAYS: Saturday 26th October 2024 at University of Galway between 11am & 5pm. To attend you need to register on our website at vocations.ie/exploring BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS: Saturday 5th October in Murrisk Car Park at 2.00pm. Bring your pet or a picture of your pet. All are Welcome. STATUES: Painting, restoring and reconstruction of catholic religious only statues, Contact Silvina at 087-3972402 SUICIDE ALERTNESS FOR EVERYONE (SAFE TALK) When: Tuesday, 8th October '24 09.30 am – 1.30 pm Where: Castlecourt Hotel, Westport, Co. Mayo, F28NX84 Booking essential https://bookwhen.com/srotraininggmr/e/ev-s2go-20241008093000 WESTPORT PARISH YOUTH: St Mary's Westport Parish Youth initiative is on Fridays the Parish Centre (upstairs room) on Friday 27th from 4 to 6pm and will run during school term times. The age group is aimed towards 1st Years and 2nd Years. The focus is on 'Fun', 'Food' and 'Faith'. Contact the Parish Office on 09828871 or 0868804779 for more details. TUAM PRIESTS IN SERVICE: Is on Oct. 8th, 9th & 10th. Fr. John & Fr. Britus away on those dates. There will be a Lay Led liturgy with Holy Communion. BANK DETAILS: Account Name: Westport Parish BIC: IPBSIE2D IBAN: IE83IPBS99072933204684 MONTHLY CALLS: Fr. John will do his monthly calls next week. SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL: Should anyone need assistance, please contact SVP in Westport at 087-9334960 Info.west@asvp.ie or visit our website at www.svp.ie GROW IN LOVE MASS: The next Grow in love Mass take place in Lecanvey Church on Saturday 12th October at 8.00p.m. and Westport Church on Sunday 13th October at 11.00a.m. MAYO SCHOOL LEAVER INFORMATION FAIR “WHERE TO FROM HERE” This event is to support young people with a disability and their family decide what they will do when they leave school. On Wednesday, October 16th at Breaffy Hotel, Castlebar, people can drop in at anytime between 11.30a.m. and 3.00p.m. for information. CHALLENGING FENCES: A Word of Thanks. Grateful appreciation to all who attended the Launch of Challenging Fences, all the people who bought the book, the Book Shops and Business outlets, the local photographers and family. friends and former members who gave photos and articles with information. A special word of thanks to the 'younger generation' who shared their colourful memories around the Show. Having the resources of the Mayo News and staff was vital and appreciated. Continued success and gratitude to the Foye family and the Pony & Horse Show in Drummindoo. In a special way our thanks to the Browne family for their collaboration and to the Publisher and his staff. After publishing costs E1,200 has been donated to Mayo Hospice towards the proposed New Children's Cancer Hospital. BEACH CLEAN UP 2024: The Big Beach Clean is an annual call to action as part of the International Coastal Clean-up (ICC), operated internationally by Ocean Conservancy. This call to action invites communities and volunteers around the country to remove litter from around the Irish coast after the end of the bathing season. Last year, in an extraordinary display of environmental stewardship and community spirit, 7,700 Clean Coasts volunteers rolled up their sleeves and removed a staggering over 46 tonnes of litter all across the country as part of the Big Beach Clean and Clean Coasts 20th year anniversary. That is the equivalent of 12 hippos! Westport Eco Congregation invite you to join them on Wednesday 25th September at 2 pm at The Point – to complete a litter pick – please bring gloves. WESTPORT LIBRARY OPEN DAY: As part of Westport Library open day, which is on the 28th of September, there will be a health stand whereby people can get information on health issues between 10-1 on that Saturday. There will be storytelling and face painting on the day along with the presentation of certificates for the summer stars reading challenge by Nicola Lavelle a local writer so come along on the day to support your local Library.

The video depicts the severe corrosion of the fixing bolts that support the bells at Saint Mary's Church in Westport, County Mayo. The corrosion was previously concealed behind timber damper plates located on top of the bells. The extent of the corrosion became apparent when one of the timber plates decayed, revealing the deteriorated fixings inside. This deterioration posed a significant risk as some of the bells, weighing over a ton, were on the verge of falling. This video explains the gantry system used to rehang bells at Saint Marys Westport . If you ever wonder how the bells are played, watch this video: Gabriel Kelly , Ringing the bells in Saint Mary's Church, Westport, County Mayo, Ireland. Filmed sometime in 2007 by Tom Kenny

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. Bring your pet or a picture of your pet. All are Welcome. STATUES: Painting, restoring and reconstruction of catholic religious only statues, Contact Silvina at 087-3972402 ANAM CARA MAYO: The organisation that supports bereaved parents will meet Tuesday 24th September at 7:15pm in the T. F Royal Hotel, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. info@anamcara.ie or 085 3888 888 SUICIDE ALERTNESS FOR EVERYONE (SAFE TALK) When: Tuesday, 8th October '24 09.30 am – 1.30 pm Where: Castlecourt Hotel, Westport, Co. Mayo, F28NX84 Booking essential: https://bookwhen.com/srotraininggmr/e/ev-s2go-20241008093000 WESTPORT PARISH YOUTH: St Mary's Westport Parish Youth initiative is starting in the Parish Centre (upstairs room) on Friday 27th from 4 to 6pm and will run during school term times. The age group is aimed towards 1st Years and 2nd Years. The focus is on 'Fun', 'Food' and 'Faith'. Contact the Parish Office on 09828871 or 0868804779 for more details. COFFEE MORNING: Gaye Harper Kilsallagh is Hosting Coffee Morning for Mayo Roscommon Hospice Thursday 26thSept. 10am-6pm THANKS TO ALL DONORS & MANY COLLECTORS: A total of €4664.69 was raised. All monies raised go towards the ongoing provision of services to those affected by cancer. THANKS: To the people of Westport who supported the Samaritans of Castlebar & Mayo church gate collection in St Mary’s Church, Westport Town on 7th & 8th September. Total raised €1,262.00 COFFEE MORNING: There will be a coffee Morning on the 26th of September at the Westport library between 10-1 All proceeds of the coffee morning are going towards Mayo Roscommon Foundation please support this worthy cause. BANK DETAILS: Account Name: Westport Parish BIC: IPBSIE2D IBAN: IE83IPBS99072933204684 CHALLENGING FENCES: A Word of Thanks. Grateful appreciation to all who attended the Launch of Challenging Fences, all the people who bought the book, the Book Shops and Business outlets, the local photographers and family. friends and former members who gave photos and articles with information. A special word of thanks to the 'younger generation' who shared their colourful memories around the Show. Having the resources of the Mayo News and staff was vital and appreciated. Continued success and gratitude to the Foye family and the Pony & Horse Show in Drummindoo. In a special way our thanks to the Browne family for their collaboration and to the Publisher and his staff. After publishing costs E1,200 has been donated to Mayo Hospice towards the proposed New Children's Cancer Hospital. BEACH CLEAN UP 2024: The Big Beach Clean is an annual call to action as part of the International Coastal Clean-up (ICC), operated internationally by Ocean Conservancy. This call to action invites communities and volunteers around the country to remove litter from around the Irish coast after the end of the bathing season. Last year, in an extraordinary display of environmental stewardship and community spirit, 7,700 Clean Coasts volunteers rolled up their sleeves and removed a staggering over 46 tonnes of litter all across the country as part of the Big Beach Clean and Clean Coasts 20th year anniversary. That is the equivalent of 12 hippos! Westport Eco Congregation invite you to join them on Wednesday 25th September at 2 pm at The Point – to complete a litter pick – please bring gloves. WESTPORT LIBRARY OPEN DAY: As part of Westport Library open day, which is on the 28th of September, there will be a health stand whereby people can get information on health issues between 10-1 on that Saturday. There will be storytelling and face painting on the day along with the presentation of certificates for the summer stars reading challenge by Nicola Lavelle a local writer so come along on the day to support your local Library. CARE FOR THE EARTH: God, our Creator, you have given us the earth, and the sky and the seas. Show us how to care for the earth, not just for today but for ages to come. Let no plan or work of ours damage, or destroy the beauty of your creation. Send forth your Spirit to direct us to care for the earth and all creation. Help us care for our common home. Amen. MAYO COPD: The next Mayo CODP support group meeting on Thursday September 26th at 2 30pm in the Tennis club Lannagh Rd Castlebar. Speaker is a Respiratory consultant from NUH. SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL: Should anyone need assistance, please contact SVP in Westport at 087-9334960 Info.west@asvp.ie   or visit our website at www.svp.ie  The main Parish Account is now with PTSB due to the closure of Ulster Bank. The details are as follows: SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL: Should anyone need assistance, please contact SVP in Westport at 087-9334960 Info.west@asvp.ie   or visit our website at www.svp.ie *** end

"Bernadette Soubirous (/ˌbɜːrnəˈdɛt ˌsuːbiˈruː/; French: [bɛʁnadɛt subiʁu]; Occitan: Bernadeta Sobirós [beɾnaˈðetɔ suβiˈɾus]; 7 January 1844 – 16 April 1879), also known as Bernadette of Lourdes, was the firstborn daughter of a miller from Lourdes (Lorda in Occitan), in the department of Hautes-Pyrénées in France, and is best known for experiencing apparitions of a "young lady" who asked for a chapel to be built at the nearby cave-grotto. These apparitions occurred between 11 February and 16 July 1858, and the young lady who appeared to her identified herself as the "Immaculate Conception". After a canonical investigation, Soubirous's reports were eventually declared "worthy of belief" on 18 February 1862, and the Marian apparition became known as Our Lady of Lourdes. In 1866, Soubirous joined the Sisters of Charity of Nevers at their convent in Nevers where she spent the last years of her life. Her body is said by the Catholic Church to remain internally incorrupt. The grotto where the apparitions occurred later went on to become a major pilgrimage site and Marian shrine known as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, attracting around five million pilgrims of all denominations each year. Pope Pius XI beatified Bernadette Soubirous on 14 June 1925 and canonized her on 8 December 1933. Her feast day, initially specified as 18 February – the day Mary promised to make her happy, not in this life, but in the other – is now observed in most places on the date of her death, 16 April." you can continue reading following this link CLICK

by Dr. Oliver Snr. Whyte, 10.08.2019 Welcome, history enthusiasts and curious minds, to a captivating journey through time as we unravel the intriguing past behind the walls of St. Mary's Church in Westport. Join us as we delve into the insightful conversation with Barbara Rabbitte, the esteemed historian and tour guide of this historical gem.

Hey there, young thrill-seekers of Westport! If you're looking to add a splash of excitement to your days and dive into a world of endless opportunities, then look no further! St. Mary's Youth of Westport is thrilled to invite you to join our brand-new club, where laughter, friendship, and adventure await around every corner. So, what are you waiting for? Let's embark on this thrilling journey together! 🎉 5 Reasons Why You Should Join St. Mary's Youth of Westport Club: 1. A Vibrant Community At our club, you're not just a member; you're part of a family. Connect with like-minded individuals, forge lifelong friendships, and create unforgettable memories together. Whether you're a social butterfly or a bit on the shy side, our welcoming community will make you feel right at home. 2. Exciting Events and Activities Boredom? We don't know her. From karaoke nights and game tournaments to outdoor adventures and volunteer projects, our calendar is packed with thrilling events that cater to all tastes. Get ready to experience the thrill of trying new things and stepping out of your comfort zone! 3. Skill-Building Workshops Looking to develop new skills or hone existing talents? Our workshops cover a wide range of interests, from art and music to leadership and communication. Let your creativity flourish and unlock your full potential in a supportive and encouraging environment. 4. Meaningful Connections In a world that's constantly buzzing with noise, our club provides a space for genuine connections and heartfelt conversations. Share your thoughts, dreams, and aspirations with fellow members who genuinely care about your well-being. Together, we'll laugh, learn, and grow. 5. Empowering Leadership Opportunities Are you a natural-born leader or eager to develop your leadership skills? Take on roles within the club, organize events, and make a real impact on our community. There's no limit to what you can achieve when you're part of a supportive and empowering team. How to Join Us: Joining St. Mary's Youth of Westport Club is as easy as pie! Simply drop by our next gathering, reach out to our friendly team, or watch this space for our upcoming St. Mary's Youth Club Facebook page. Remember, the adventure begins the moment you decide to take that first step towards something new and exciting. We can't wait to welcome you with open arms! So, what are you waiting for? Dive headfirst into a world of fun, friendship, and endless possibilities by joining St. Mary's Youth of Westport Club today. Together, we'll paint the town red and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. See you soon! 🚀 Join us and let the good times roll!

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 mayoppn@mayococo.ie 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@ Edel@breakthroughcancerresearch.ie 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 info@grasta.org 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 / communitysupportworker@westportfrc.ie (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!

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