Delighted to host this in Christ Church Celbridge and for a cause which has touched all our hearts and yet one in which we feel helpless - But small things can make a difference -Spread the word!
Wednesday, 16 July 2025
Friday, 27 June 2025
CSNL News May June July August 2025
Issue 89 CSNL NEWS May/June/July/August, 2025
Parish Of Celbridge & Straffan with Newcastle-Lyons
Church of Ireland United Dioceses of Dublin & Glendalough
By the parishioners - for the parishioners
From Our Rector - Dear Friends ..
As we move into the warmth and light of summer (we hope!), it’s impossible to ignore the turbulence that surrounds us. News headlines speak of conflict, injustice, and uncertainty on every continent, and many of us feel caught in a whirlwind of worry and despair. Yet, in the midst of such chaos, the Feast of Pentecost reminds us that God’s Spirit is ever-present, breathing life, hope and unity into our fractured world.
On that first Pentecost, the disciples were gathered in fear and confusion - yet suddenly they heard a mighty wind and saw tongues of fire that did not consume but empowered them. In that moment of apparent turmoil, the Holy Spirit brought clarity, courage and a message of love that transcended borders and barriers. Today, the same Spirit is poured out on us, guiding our feet along paths of compassion, equipping us for service, and bringing us together in the bonds of peace.
This summer let us seek out signs of the Spirit’s presence in unexpected places. Perhaps it will be in a shared meal with friends from different cultures, in fresh acts of kindness to those in need, or in the simple stillness of prayer by the sea or in the mountains. Wherever forces of chaos swirl around us, God’s Spirit is also there and can transform our fear into faith. Together, let us be witnesses to God’s life-giving power in the world, shining as beacons of hope amid the storm.
Yours Stephen
Straffan Sunday Services Live Streamed
https://www.churchmedia.tv/straffon-church-of-ireland and www.facebook.com/CSNLParish.
On Going Events
Craft & Chat: An entrusting group of parishioners and friends enjoyed a delightful lunch at the Steam Museum, Straffan on Tuesday, 3rd June. They were very fortunate to receive a guided tour of the beautiful 18th century walled garden led by Mrs. Guinness. On display were exotic climbers, fruit trees and roses, along with other vibrant shrubs and flowers. Despite the damp weather, the afternoon was thoroughly enjoyed by all and finished with refreshments. The group will meet on Tuesday, 24th in the Slip Hall at 2.30 p.m., before having a break for July and August.
Wednesday Night Prayers: From 8 p.m., to 9 p.m. At present, they are held in the home of Tony & Elizabeth Waldron in Newcastle. If anybody would like details they can contact Rev. Stephen or Dee Huddleston. Everyone is very welcome to come along or to let them know if there is something they would like them to pray about.
Saturday Night Services: These will resume in the autumn.
Whist Drives: The season’s last was held on Friday, 28th March. This was a special fundraiser for the RNLI and was very well supported. Proceeds went towards the provision of a new lifeboat for Wexford to be named the Cill Dara. Thanks to all who organised, provided refreshments, raffle prizes and attended the last season‘s drives.
WhatsApp Groups
WhatsApp group continues to be very active. There are also groups specifically for Newcastle and another for Straffan notices – together they provide a very effective means of contact in the parish.
Primrose Hill National School
School closes on Wednesday, 25th June with a closing service in Christ Church, Celbridge at 11 a.m. We wish all the children and staff a good break and a safe return. We are however saying goodbye to our longest serving teacher in the school, Jacqui Kerr who has played a huge part in the life of our school for many years and will be greatly missed. We wish her a long and happy retirement. We are also saying goodbye to one of our newer teachers Sarah Nagle who is moving to Cork and we wish her well in her new appointment.
Sympathy & In Memoriam
Deepest sympathy to the family of Patricia Ann Long (nee Keays), late of Newcastle, who died on the 11th May in Lisheen Nursing Home (Rathcoole) surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of the late Davis and loving mother to Jean, Vivienne, Ann & David. She is sadly missed and forever remembered by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sons-in-law Tony, Nigel & Willie, daughter-in-law Helen, her loving brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. The funeral took place in St. Finian’s and burial followed in Esker Cemetery, Lucan.
Anne Lamb of the Gate Lodge, Castletown Gate died on 28th May. We express our deepest sympathy to her beloved daughters Celia, Stephanie & Fiona and all the family in their loss. Her funeral took place in Christ Church, Celbridge on 6th June and was followed by cremation in Mount Jerome.
Deepest sympathy to Averil Larke and her brother Ian and the wider family on the death of their mother Joan on 18th May in Lisheen Nursing Home. Joan was a committed parishioner and organist in her home parish of Cloughjordan, Co. Tipperary where our Rector served before coming to this parish. Her funeral took place in St. Kieran’s Church, Cloughjordan followed by burial in Modreeny Graveyard where she was laid to rest with her late husband Harry.
Deepest sympathy to Dorothy Evertsen and her husband Jos and the whole family on the death of Dorothy’s mother, Audrey Nicholson, who died on 7th June in her 103rd year. Her funeral took place in St. Peter’s Church, Bandon, Co. Cork on Tuesday, 10th June and was followed by burial in St. Senan‘s churchyard, Inniscarra.
Christ Church, Celbridge was filled to overflowing for the memorial service on Saturday, 17th May for Lord Patrick Connolly Carew who died at Christmas. Many people had travelled a great distance to be there and it was a very joyous celebration of a remarkable life. The service was led by Lord Carew’s great friend, Dean Robert Townley with our Rector also taking part. Lord Carew’s son, William, delivered a wonderful Eulogy which was both moving and humorous. We extend our sympathy to his wife Celia and their children Virginia, Nicola, Camilla & William and the wider family in their loss but rejoice with them in a life well lived.
On Sunday morning 4th May, a plaque was dedicated in Christ Church, Celbridge in memory of the late Liam Gately, much loved by friends and family alike. The Plaque was mounted on the wall above the pew in which he and Valerie and family always sat. That day was the anniversary of his funeral and we continue to pray for Valerie and family as we give thanks for his life that brought so much good and so much joy to others. “The souls of the righteous are in the hands of God.”
Concerts - Christ Church, Celbridge
UK Drifters gave a concert on Saturday, 22nd March. Friday, 23rd May was the time for our annual Voices of Spring free concert which was a most enjoyable event with lots of familiar favourites. The next evening, Saturday, 24th May we had the return of the Maynooth Gospel Choir for a Motown Gospel experience - again a very enjoyable evening. The next concert is on Thursday, 24th July - The Voices of Irish Folk - tickets via Eventbrite or Breda Konstantine - 087-9630719. Doors open at 7.30 p.m.
Baptisms
On Saturday, 13th April, Freya Jane O’Sullivan, daughter of Sarah Tobin & Thomas O’Sullivan was baptised in Christ Church, Celbridge. Freya’s mum Sarah is one of our teaching staff in Primrose Hill National School. We wish Freya Jane God’s richest blessing in her life. On Sunday, 18th May in Straffan Church, Scott Thomas O’Callaghan, son of Rachel & Conor was baptised. The Godparents were James Taylor & Pauline O’Callaghan. We wish Scott every blessing in his journey in life and faith.
Confirmation - Sunday, 8th June - Christ Church Cathedral
Sunday, 8th June, Pentecost Sunday was Confirmation day in Christ Church Cathedral for our four candidates - Maeve Lanigan, Abbie Kavanagh-Doyle, Abigeal Cicirello & Brendan Touhey. We congratulate them on making this journey in faith and pray for God’s richest blessing on each of them.
Report On The Easter General Vestry For Celbridge & Straffan
The Easter General Vestry took place on the evening of the 1st May, 2025 and was held in the parish school (Primrose Hill School). In addition to the official business of electing the office holders and select vestry for the coming year it was a lovely opportunity to reflect the year that had passed as well as looking forward to the new year. In his report, our Rector opened by reflecting on his 10 years with us and paid tribute to the support he has received over that time. Tribute was paid to the contribution of so many people to the life of our parish, for example the growing success of the after church refreshments in Celbridge church and the recent parish social as well as the more established events such as the car boot sales and working parties.
The life of those who had died over the past year were also acknowledged including, the contributions of Thomas Moody, Stanley Shaw & Patrick Connolly Carew to their parishes and their wider communities. Our parishes could not work without the generous gift of time by our voluntary workers and our Rector took time to mention those who lead and serve in so many areas of parish life. This year Ken Denner is retiring after long and faithful service as Glebewarden in Celbridge and special tribute for many years of unfailing expertise at all hours! We are delighted to welcome Edward Manta as his successor.
Our Hon. Treasurer presented the accounts and willingly and expertly responded to all questions. (Report from Gordon Bass follows.) The final item on the agenda was the election of the new Vestry and the appointment of key post holders for the current years. Thanks were offered to those stepping back this year including Esther Lougheed as Churchwarden. The meeting closed with prayer. Naomi Pasley.
The following were duly elected to the Select Vestry:
People’s Churchwarden - Celbridge Patricia Pasley
Rector’s Churchwarden - Celbridge Paula Howard
People’s Churchwarden - Straffan Shirley Dunlop
Rector’s Churchwarden - Straffan Dee Huddleston
People’s Glebewarden Thomas Hardy
Rector’s Glebewarden Edward Manta
Ordinary members:
Gordon Bass Linda Daly Kenneth Denner
Dorothy Evertsen Lucy Jones Esther Lougheed
Robert Moody Naomi Pasley
Naomi Pasley was elected as Hon. Secretary.
Gordon Bass was elected as Hon. Treasurer.
Celbridge & Straffan - Treasurer’s Report - Gordon Bass
2024 was a financially satisfactory year for the Parish even though our €45,000 surplus income over expenditure for the year was €9,000 lower than the previous 12 months. A surplus of this nature is still a very positive outcome though and everyone who contributed in any way to this result must be applauded. The financial details do however, highlight some facts that you may find interesting. A few examples of these are as follows:
*Payments to the Diocese plus our annual insurance premium comes to a combined €72,000 annually now - an increase of €10,000 over the past four years. These two costs are effectively “fixed” insofar that they must be paid and we have no control over the amounts. (Our Insurance Policy is very competitive).
*Lighting & heating costs for our two Churches alone for 2024 came to over €6,000.
*Repairs/maintenance and upkeep of all Parish buildings during the year amounted to c€27,000.
*We spent a total of c€121,000 running the Parish last year.
*c€59,000 of our income in 2024 came directly from Parishioners (including tax refunds), an excellent commitment from all who contributed to it.
*This amount (€59,000), has remained relatively unchanged over the past four years and a significant number of Parish-registered households do not make any financial contribution to the Parish.
*Every year we depend more and more on rental income and fund-raising to “balance the books” and keep us financially afloat.
*As our already old, historic buildings continue to age and consequently deteriorate, maintenance costs will continue to increase very significantly.
As in all walks of life, it’s very clear that we too, face ever-increasing costs running all aspects of Parish affairs. What’s not so clear is how we will be able to continue to raise the finance that will be necessary to fund all these costs. But if EVERYONE could give even just a little on a regular basis it would all help towards securing the future. However I do want to say a big thank you once again to everyone who played any part in the financial aspects of the Parish last year. 2024 was a successful year for us and I’ve no doubt that with everyone’s help we will continue this positive trend. Finally, if anyone would like more information on any of the topics I’ve touched on above, please feel free to contact me at anytime.
Gordon Bass, Hon. Treasurer - Celbridge & Straffan.
(and a “Big Thank You” to Gordon for looking after our finances.)
Newcastle-Lyons Easter General Vestry Meeting
The Easter General Vestry meeting for Newcastle-Lyons was held on 6th May in the Church. Rev. Stephen opened the meeting with prayers and by thanking everyone for attending. We had a very successful and enjoyable weekend of Anniversary celebrations for NL 300 at the end of last summer in which everyone pulled together to make it a significant and encouraging event in the life of our parish - we all agreed that Mr. Frank Kearns’ hospitality in allowing us serve the teas in his conservatory and opened his beautiful gardens to us all, really put the icing on the cake. 1st Sundays: We have decided to make this a permanent feature of our monthly calendar and both the late start and the refreshments are a very important aspect of our worship as hospitality is at the heart of the Gospel and to place our worship in this context makes it more real and genuine. It has been very encouraging to see some new faces in our church over the past year or so - this gives us hope for the future viability and life of this beautiful church. It is easy to get hung up on numbers, but we also need to remember that our Lord surrounded himself with initially only 12 disciples but of course we would all like to see more people joining with us in our witness in our beautiful Church.
Rev. Stephen thanked everyone for their support throughout the year. He paid a particular thanks to Geoffrey McMaster as a valuable colleague in ministry. Thanks, were also given to our Hon. Secretary - Maggie Harris, Church Wardens - Elizabeth Waldron & Vivien Bond. A special thanks to our Hon. Treasurer, Sandra Doble for overseeing our parish finances and for the considerable work involved in the preparation of the annual accounts. Sandra discussed the accounts, which were approved by all at the meeting. Finally, to all Vestry members and parishioners for the help and time everyone has contributed to the smooth running of the Parish.
Annual Elections:
Rector’s Churchwarden Vivien Bond
People’s Churchwarden Elizabeth Waldron
Rector’s Glebewardens Mervyn Eager
People’s Glebewarden Tony Waldron
Select Vestry (in addition to the above)
Devon Beattie Claire Burke Sandra Doble
Maggie Harris Willie Harris Peter Hildebrand
Andrew Jordan Avril Kerr
Hon. Secretary Maggie Harris
Hon. Treasurer Sandra Doble
Mothering Sunday, Holy Week & Easter Services
Instead of a United Service on 30th March - Mothering Sunday, there was a service of Holy Communion in all three churches. Little Hill Animal Rescue & Sanctuary held a cake sale in the Slip Hall that day, Pauline McLynn, its patron, Fr. Ted’s Mrs. Doyle, welcomed our Rector “more tea Vicar?”! There was a service of Compline in St. Finian’s Church, Newcastle-Lyons on 16th April. Maundy Thursday’s service of the Eucharist and the Stripping of the Altar took place in Straffan Church. On Good Friday, there were Way of the Cross services and walks in Newcastle-Lyons, Straffan & Celbridge between each of the Church of Ireland & Roman Catholic Churches. On Holy Saturday, there was the Lighting of the Easter Fire & 1st Eucharist at Straffan Church. Easter Sunday Dawn Ecumenical service at 6 a.m., at the gates of Castletown, Celbridge was followed by Hot Cross Buns and tea/coffee in the Slip Hall. Holy Communion was celebrated in all 3 churches on Easter Sunday morning. Thanks to all those who took part in the Palm Sunday, Holy Week and Easter Sunday services - all who read, provided the music, decorated the churches and provided refreshments.
Church Services
Sunday Newcastle 9 a.m* Straffan 10.15 a.m. Celbridge 11.30 a.m.
1st Holy Communion Service of Word Holy Communion
2nd Service of Word Holy Communion Service of Word
3rd Holy Communion Morning Prayer Holy Communion
4th Morning Prayer Holy Communion Morning Prayer
5th 29/06/2025 United Service. 11.00 a.m. Christ Church, Celbridge.
5th 31/08/2025. United Service. 11.00 a.m. Straffan.
*Services will continue in Newcastle at 10 a.m., on the 1st Sunday as a permanent change in the Sunday timetable.
World Day Of Prayer - Friday, 7th March, 2025
The service written by women of the Cook Islands, was a very well-attended uplifting service. St. Brigid’s Roman Catholic Church, Straffan hosted this year, and as always, it proved to be a lovely ecumenical event. It was enriched by the youngsters from Straffan School reading the prayers and 3 of our local Ukrainian ladies who also participated. The choir led the singing. Father Joe & Rev. Stephen gave the Blessing, and tea and cakes ended the evening. €648 was raised for WDP Charities. Next year, WDP 2026, will be held in the Slip Hall, Celbridge on Friday, 6th March. The service is written by Christian women of Nigeria.
Walk For Gaza & Vigil For Peace
Sunday, 25th May marked an event to express solidarity with the people of Gaza by walking reflectively through Castletown and then afterwards through music, meditation and powerful testimony lifting them up in prayer. We were led by members of the Island of Ireland Peace Choir and very honoured to have members of the Irish Palestinian community join us to share their stories. It was a very moving event and it is hoped to repeat this in the near future as we try to keep the plight of these people in all our consciences and to persuade those in power to exercise whatever influence they can to bring this ongoing horror to an end.
Editor
Thanks to all who contributed to this late edition of CSNL NEWS and my thanks to all who have sent messages, visited and especially prayed for me as I recovered from my shiny new hip! The closing date for the nest issue will be Monday, 8th September.
GB Display
Our Rector was delighted to be invited to the GB Display in Lucan Parish Centre on Saturday, 10th May. A large number of the company both leaders and girls come from our parish and they put on a very impressive display of singing, dancing, skipping and of course marching and more besides. One thing that was especially obvious at the display was how much the girls were enjoying it. It was lovely to see such a joyful event so well supported. The National President of the GB, Hazel Ensor was the special guest and she presented the well deserved prizes to the girls at the conclusion of the display.
Thanks
.. to Dee Huddleston for taking the service on 1st Sundays in April & June in Straffan Church and to Geoffrey McMaster on 1st Sunday in May. .. to all who contributed to the retiring collections in all 3 churches for Christian Aid’s Myanmar appeal. Colleagues of Dee Huddleston are on the ground to assess priority needs to ensure the money will be sent to where it most needed. .. to Ken & Valerie Denner for the lovely gift of a carpet for the Kids Corner in Christ Church, Celbridge. A great addition. .. to all who are maintaining the church grounds.
Wedding
Congratulations to Louisa Beresford & James Howgego who were married on 15th March in Straffan Parish Church. We wish them every blessing and happiness in their marriage.
Slip Hall
With the closure of the Montessori School there is now some availability for morning hires in the hall. Please send enquiries to email:csnparishhall@gmail.com.
Summer Fair & Barbeque - Saturday, 21st June.
This event will be over by the time, CSNL NEWS is issued, so thanks to all who organised, helped and attended from 11 a.m., to 3 p.m., in Primrose Hill National School. This was a joint venture between the School PA and the Parish. There were the usual stalls, games for the kids, teas, barbeque and of course a raffle. A report will be included in the next edition of CSNL NEWS.
Straffan Market & Car Boot Sales
The first of these were on 3rd, 17th & 31st May. There was a very moving minute’s silence observed at the event on 3rd May by the stall holders and shoppers for the founder of this event Tom Moody who sadly died recently The remaining dates are 28th June, 12th & 26th July, 9th & 23rd August, 6th & 20th September & 4th October. Thanks to all who have helped in any way to-date - checking in, ground control, taking bookings, baking and manning the tea stall, setting up and taking down afterwards. Many hands make light work. A new record was made by Iris & Valerie on the tea stall of €586.00! Congratulations ladies!
St. Patrick’s Day
Thanks to Canon Adrian Empey for taking the service of Holy Communion in Christ Church, Celbridge and a sermon on St. Patrick and to those who provided the refreshments after including cup cakes decorated in green icing!
Calendar Of Events
June
Tue 24 Craft & Chat final group until September. 2.30 p.m.
Slip Hall, Celbridge.
Wed 25 Closing Service for Primrose Hill School. Christ
Church, Celbridge. 11 a.m.
Sat 26 Car Boot Sale. Straffan. 8.45 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.
Sun 29 United Service. Christ Church, Celbridge. 11 a.m.
July
Sat 12 Car Boot Sale. Straffan. 8.45 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.
Thu 24 Concert. Christ Church, Celbridge. 8 p.m.
Sat 26 Car Boot Sale. Straffan. 8.45 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.
August
Sat 9 Car Boot Sale. Straffan. 8.45 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.
Sat 23 Car Boot Sale. Straffan. 8 45 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.
Sun 31 United Service. Straffan. 11 a.m.
September
Sat 6 Car Boot Sale. Straffan. 8.45 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.
Mon 8 Closing date for CSNL NEWS next issue.
Sat 20 Car Boot Sale. Straffan. 8.45 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.
Who’s Who In The Parish
www.cs-nl.org celbridgestraffannewcastlelyns@gmail.com
Rector: Rev. Stephen Neill 01-6288231 087-2328172
www.paddyanglican.com stephen.neill@gmail.com
Keep up to date on www.cs-nl.org &
https://www.facebook.com/CSNLParish & www.Dublin.anglican.org
Jesus said “I am the way, and the truth and the life ..” John 14:6.
Monday, 9 June 2025
Monday, 14 April 2025
HOLY WEEK & EASTER SERVICES
Holy Week and Easter services:
Wed 16 8 p.m. Compline. St. Finian’s Church, Newcastle-Lyons.
Thu 17 Maundy Thursday. 8 p.m. Eucharist and Stripping of the Altar. Straffan Church.
Fri 18 Good Friday. Way of the Cross services.
Straffan 10 a.m. Starting at St. Brigid’s Church.
Newcastle starting at 12 Noon. Commencing at St. Finian’s, Church of Ireland.
Celbridge starting at 12 Noon at St. Patrick’s Church, Celbridge.
Sat 19 Holy Saturday. Lighting of the Easter Fire & 1st Eucharist of Easter.
8 p.m. Straffan Church.
Sun 20 Easter Sunday. Dawn Ecumenical Sunrise Service.
Castletown Gates, Celbridge. 5.45 a.m.
Holy Communion in all 3 churches at usual times.
Newcastle 9am, Straffan 10.15 and Celbridge 11.30
Friday, 11 April 2025
Easter vestries
Easter Vestries (AGM of Parish) 2025
Celbridge & Straffan - Thursday 1st May at 8pm in Primrose Hill School.
Newcastle Tuesday 6th May 8pm in St. Finian's Church
All are welcome to attend
Those who are on the General Register of Vestrypersons
can vote for parish officers and vestry members at the meetings
Thursday, 10 April 2025
Walk for Gaza and Vigil for Peace
The walk will be followed by a Taize style service
in Christ Church Celbridge
led by the Island of Ireland Peace Choir
Thursday, 3 April 2025
Myanmar Retiring Collections in all churches
Retiring Collection for Myanmar via Christian Aid
This Sunday and the following Sunday in all 3 churches
Please spread the word!
Colleagues of our own Dee Huddleston in Christian Aid are on the ground assessing priority needs so we can be assured the money will be sent to where it is most needed
Wednesday, 12 March 2025
St Patrick's Day Service
St Patrick's Day - Service of Holy Communion
Christ Church Celbridge at 11am
Monday, 10 March 2025
CSNL NEWS March April 2025
Issue
88 CSNL NEWS March/April, 2025
Parish
Of Celbridge & Straffan with Newcastle-Lyons
Church
of Ireland United Dioceses of Dublin & Glendalough
By the
parishioners - for the parishioners
From
Our Rector - Dear Friends ..
Last
Sunday we heard the story of the Transfiguration which marks the transition
from Epiphanytide to the Lenten Pilgrimage – These next 40 days are challenging and they reflect the challenging
times we are experiencing the World at this time on so many fronts: Gaza,
Ukraine and most unexpectedly the utter transformation in the Political
alliances and allegiances of our World. It is easy to despair at times like
this but challenging times can also bring out the best in us. The Church has
often flourished in the midst of persecution and adversity and part of the
reason is that we are a people of Hope, people who see the big picture and have
a real sense that God is in the midst of us and will not walk away. This Hope
is something we can share and give to others as we refuse to accept that
tomorrow will be the same as today but rather that we are on a journey towards
the fulfilment of God’s purposes and that the
challenges we face are temporary and that God will ultimately prevail – that Good will ultimately triumph over Evil and that
justice and mercy will flow like rivers through our World.
We
are called to be agents of that transformation and however small it is we can
all play our part by not giving in to despair but choosing to hope and believe.
Yours Stephen
Church
Services
Sunday Newcastle
9 a.m* Straffan
10.15 a.m. Celbridge 11.30 a.m.
1st Holy
Communion Service of
Word Holy Communion
2nd Service
of Word Holy Communion
Service of Word
3rd Holy
Communion Morning Prayer Holy Communion
4th Morning
Prayer
Holy Communion Morning Prayer
*Services will continue in Newcastle at 10 a.m., on
the 1st Sunday as a permanent change in the Sunday timetable.
On Going Events
Craft
& Chat: The Group continues to meet every Tuesday
in the Slip Hall at 2.30 p.m. Everyone
is welcome for crafting, chatting and refreshments.
Wednesday Night Prayers: From 8 p.m., to 9
p.m. At present, they are held in the
home of Tony & Elizabeth Waldron in Newcastle. If anybody would like details they can
contact Rev. Stephen or Dee Huddleston. Everyone is very welcome to come along or to
let them know if there is something they would like them to pray about.
Saturday Night Services: No dates at present.
Whist Drives: Both the January and February Drives were
very well supported. The last of the
season will be on Friday, 28th March at 8 p.m., in the Slip
Hall. All the usual great prizes and a
raffle and not to forget a scrumptious supper as always. New players always welcome. Thanks to all who organise, provide
refreshments and raffle prizes.
Slip Hall
With the closure of the Montessori School there is now some availability
for morning hires in the hall. Please
send enquiries to email:csnparishhall@gmail.com.
WhatsApp
Groups
WhatsApp group continues to be very active. There are also groups specifically for
Newcastle and another for Straffan notices – together they provide a very
effective means of contact in the parish.
Ash Wednesday - 5th
March
There were services of Holy Communion in Christ Church, Celbridge, when
the pupils of Primrose Hill School took part, and in Straffan.
World Day Of Prayer
- Friday, 7th March, 2025
This year St. Brigid’s Roman Catholic
Church, Straffan hosted the service at 8 p.m.
It was written by the women of The Cook Islands. The theme was “I made you wonderful”. Psalm 139:14. A report will be included in the next issue
of CSNL NEWS.
Sympathy
On Sunday morning, 2nd February, Thomas
Moody (Tom) of Lodge Park, Straffan died following a short illness which he
bore bravely with the support of his loving family. It was a huge shock to the parish and local
community where Tom was held in great affection. His funeral took place on Thursday, 6th
in Straffan Parish Church with burial in the nearby Straffan Graveyard. The huge turnout was testimony to his wide
circle of friends and colleagues from near and far. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his
loving wife Pearl, children Davina, Nigel & Stephanie,
son-in-law Matt, adored grandchildren Orla & Maeve, brother Robert,
brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family and many
friends.
A Memorial Service for Lord Patrick Thomas
Connolly-Carew of Donadea, Kildare, who died on 18th December
will be held on 17th May - details still to be finalised.
Concerts
In Christ Church, Celbridge
On Saturday, 8th February, Sandy Kelly,
who had had a hit with “Woodcarver” with Johnny
Cash and her special guest, Marc Roberts provided a great night’s
entertainment. It was a mixture of
Country, Folk, Pop & Rock and through it all great banter between Sandy
& Marc (former Eurovision runner up).
Sandy told her life story in word and song and really enthralled
the audience. On Saturday, 1st
March, the concert for Peace was led by The Island of Ireland Peace Choir,
with musical director Dr. Phil Brennan and the special guest was piper, David
Caldwell. This was a very special
night with the choir led by Phil Brennan who founded the choir after the
Omagh Bombing. There was something for
everybody and interspersed through it some powerful testimony from people from
Omagh and Gaza and in the audience some members of the Ukrainian community. It was hard not to be moved to tears by some
of what was sung and said. The concert
concluded with a couple of beautiful pieces including “Abide with me” on the bagpipes
with Champion Piper, David Caldwell. The
choir hope to come back in the summer for a Taize worship service which we look
forward to greatly.
UK Drifters are up next on Saturday, 22nd
March. Tickets are on sale on
Eventbrite. Doors open at 7.30 p.m.
2025 Prayer
Movement
The Diocesan Mission Committee is currently exploring the future of
mission in Dublin & Glendalough.
They believe that the foundation for everything we do must be in
prayer. Their vision is to see all
parishes in our United Dioceses flourish as communities of faith, confident in
sharing the Good News we have been given and serving our society. The Committee are seeking 2,025 people to
join in praying for our diocese as they plan for the future. Their hope is to recruit a Prayer Community
who make a daily commitment to:-
Pray the Lord’s Prayer. Pray the Diocesan Mission Prayer. Pray for Growth in our dioceses. On the evidence of the 2024 census, there are
5,000 of us in church on any given Sunday.
The greater Dublin area has a population of about 1.8 million
people. You can sign up on www.dublin.anglican.org/about-us/mission.
Organisation
Focus - Support For Afghan Further Education
SAFE is a small non-profit, non-political organisation
founded in 1990. It’s chairperson is a
Parish Reader in Arklow, Inch & Kilbride - Pat O’Malley. The aim is to support further education and
support one project each year. This year
SAFE has received a request for support for a new project seeking to empower
Afghan youth through learning English and computer skills. Last year through the Central Afghanistan
Welfare Committee, they established home based education courses in one of the
isolated districts of Mazar-e-Sharif. SAFE
has received funding from Bishops’ Appeal. The
situation for women in Afghanistan is terrible now. Doctors and many of the professionals there
were women but they can no longer hold those roles. Men need to be educated too so that they can
support women. More information can he
had from omalleypatricia47@gmail.com. Every cent donated is used in Afghanistan and
the trustees and committee of SAFE are voluntary.
Chuckle
Time
A rector was standing at the door shaking hands when
he pulled Nathan aside and asked “Nathan, you
need to join the army of the Lord.” Nathan replied, “I’m
already in the Army of the Lord, Rector.” The rector retorted “Then
how come I don’t see you except at Christmas and Easter?” Nathan replied
in a whisper: “Well, I’m in
the secret service.”
St. Patrick’s Day,
Mothering Sunday, Holy Week & Easter Services
Thanks
to Canon Adrian Empey for agreeing to take a service of Holy Communion
on St. Patrick’s Day at 11 a.m., in Christ
Church, Celbridge.
5th
Sunday in March - 30th March - Mothering Sunday. Usually this would be a United Service but as
part of the tradition of Mothering Sunday is returning and revisiting our
Mother Church our Rector has decided that all churches will have their
regular services that day.
Holy
Week and Easter services:
Wed 16 8 p.m.
Compline. St. Finian’s Church,
Newcastle-Lyons.
Thu 17 Maundy Thursday. 8 p.m.
Eucharist and Stripping of the Altar.
Straffan Church.
Fri 18 Good Friday. Way of the Cross services. Straffan 10 a.m. Starting at St. Brigid’s Church.
Newcastle
starting at noon. Commencing at St.
Finian’s,
Church of Ireland.
Celbridge
starting at noon at St. Patrick’s Church, Celbridge.
Sat 19 Holy Saturday. Lighting of the Easter Fire & 1st
Eucharist of Easter. 8 p.m.
Straffan Church.
Sun 20 Easter Sunday. Dawn Ecumenical Sunrise Service. Castletown Gates, Celbridge. 5.45
a.m.
Holy
Communion in all 3 churches at usual times.
Straffan Sunday
Services Live Streamed
https://www.churchmedia.tv/straffon-church-of-ireland and www.facebook.com/CSNLParish.
Easter
General Vestries
The dates of the Annual General Meetings of the
vestries of St. Finian’s Church, Newastle-Lyons and of Christ Church,
Celbridge & Straffan will be announced shortly.
Thanks
.. to Dee Huddleston for taking the service on
1st Sundays in February and March in Straffan Church.
Primrose Hill
National School News
The Student Council has been working hard so far this year under
co-captains Olivia Quinn & Cian Crilly. To date it has established a new set of rules
for the playground, set the playground rota for each class to use different
areas of the yard across the week, chosen movies for Christmas Movie Night and
assisted with the Christmas Fair. It is
currently working on developing a fundraiser for playground equipment and also
assisting with the Code of Behaviour review.
In Term 3, it will assist with formulating the pupil-friendly version of
the school’s new Bi Cinealta
Policy.
As part of the school’s development of
the new Bi Cinealta Policy, the school must close for a half-day to facilitate
staff in formulating the policy and training in the new procedures. This half-day closure will take place on
Thursday, 13th March. The
School will close at noon.
The School had a surprise visitor in the form of Mr. Niall Larkin,
Department of Education Inspector. Mr.
Larkin visited multiple classrooms and spent the day experiencing our
learning environment. Mr. Larkin stated
that the school had a wonderful welcoming atmosphere and could see how much the
pupils enjoyed their learning as well as how rich their learning experiences
were.
Wellbeing in Primrose Hill is very important and there a number of
initiatives taking place to enhance our wellbeing. Our physical wellbeing is being looked after
by GAA coach, James, every Thursday morning and since mid-term, we have
our Gymnastics coach back for seven weeks.
Mrs. Graham is heading up the Wellbeing Committee this year and
wellbeing surveys for parents and staff have been sent to complete to get a
picture of the overall wellbeing of the entire school community.
(News taken from
Primrose Hill National School January/February, 2025 newsletter.)
Confirmation -
Sunday, 8th June - Christ Church Cathedral
Classes starting this month.
Please pray for the candidates as they prepare to take this important
step on their faith journey.
Calendar
Of Events
March
Mon 17 St. Patrick’s Day. 11 a.m.
Holy Communion. Christ Church,
Celbridge.
Sat 22 UK Drifters. Christ Church, Celbridge. 8 p.m.
Fri 28 Whist Drive. Slip Hall.
8 p.m.
Sun 30 Mothering Sunday. Holy Communion in all 3 churches.
April
Wed 16 8 p.m.
Compline. St. Finian’s Church,
Newcastle-Lyons.
Thu 17 Maundy Thursday. 8 p.m.
Eucharist and Stripping of the Altar.
Straffan Church.
Fri 18 Good Friday. Way of the Cross services. Straffan.
10 a.m. Starting at St. Brigid’s Church.
Newcastle
starting at noon. Commencing at St.
Finian’s,
Church of Ireland.
Celbridge
starting at noon at St. Patrick’s Church, Celbridge.
Sat 19 Holy Saturday. Lighting of the Easter Fire & 1st
Eucharist of Easter. 8 p.m.
Straffan Church.
Sun 20 Easter Sunday. Dawn Ecumenical Sunrise Service. Castletown
Gates, Celbridge. 5.45 a.m.
Holy
Communion in all 3 churches at usual times.
May
Tue 6 Closing date for next issue of CSNL
NEWS.
Sat 17 Memorial Service for Lord Patrick
Connolly-Carew.
June
Sun 8 Confirmation. Christ Church, Cathedral, Dublin. 3 p.m.
Parish
Social.
The Parish Social on Friday night, 21st
February was a great success. It was an
80’s
themed night with dancing to the hits of the 80’s, lots of lovely food and great
chat and laughter. The props table was
very popular as was the selfie frame and the hall was beautifully decorated.
All thee churches were well represented and it was good to see some friends and
some new faces as well. I hesitate to
name names but thank you to Lucy and her team for organising a
tremendous night. When is the next one?
Who’s Who
In The Parish
www.cs-nl.org celbridgestraffannewcastlelyns@gmail.com
Rector: Rev.
Stephen Neill 01-6288231 087-2328172
www.paddyanglican.com stephen.neill@gmail.com
Keep up to date on www.cs-nl.org
&
https://www.facebook.com/CSNLParish & www.Dublin.anglican.org
Jesus said “I am the way, and the truth and the life ..” John 14:6.
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