Parish of Celbridge & Straffan with Newcastle-Lyons

Saturday, 25 July 2026

Monday, 13 July 2026

CSNL News July August 2026

Issue 95 CSNL NEWS July/August, 2026

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

Summer is here - and not only the Sunshine but Wimbledon (almost over now) and the World Cup which give us a sense of the shared passion of the nations of this planet for sport in its various forms and perhaps especially football/soccer. We are also united by the heat waves that seem to be relentless this Summer and even Ireland is getting a look in for the better or worse! But these heat waves also remind us of the fragility of this Creation that we share, of those who are vulnerable in the heat, and of our responsibility to care for the earth and for one another. Meanwhile, the news from around the world continues to remind us that many live with uncertainty, conflict, fear and division.

Perhaps though we can learn something from Sport - it can teach us something about discipline, perseverance, teamwork and grace in defeat and the simple pleasure in participating in games and sport with one another. These are things that are sorely lacking in the politics of our world and if we could embrace this approach in international relations the world would be a better place.

So this Summer as we watch and perhaps participate in Sport and recreation let us pray for a World that can learn to play together and celebrate in our mutual achievements.

Yours Stephen

Summer Holidays

Wishing readers a happy summer wherever you go - back garden or abroad - safe journeys and happy memories, especially for those who sat exams and await their results.

On Going Events

Craft & Chat: The group has now taken a break for the summer and will return in September in the Slip Hall at 2.30 p.m., on Tuesdays for crafting, chat and coffee. All welcome.

Wednesday Night Prayers: Please check with Dee Huddleston in relation to these over the summer. If anybody would like details they can contact Rev. Stephen or Dee Huddleston. Everyone is very welcome to come along. The emphasis is on prayers for healing and support for those facing particular challenges. Let them know if there is something you would like them to pray about.

Church Services

Sunday Newcastle 9 a.m* Straffan 10.15 a.m. Celbridge 11.30 a.m.

1^st Holy Communion Service of Word Holy Communion

2^nd Service of Word Holy Communion Service of Word

3^rd Holy Communion Morning Prayer Holy Communion

4^th Morning Prayer Holy Communion Morning Prayer

5^th 30/08/26. United Service. 11.30 a.m. Christ Church, Celbridge.

*Services will continue in Newcastle at 10 a.m., on the 1^st Sunday as a permanent change in the Sunday timetable.

Christ Church. Celbridge Concerts - Past & Future

The concerts continue in Christ Church, Celbridge. On 21^st May, we hosted a lunchtime concert with “The Voices of Spring” Alzheimers Choir. On 30^th May we hosted Tom Cole and then on 6^th June Sean Keane made a welcome return. On 7^th June the Suzuki Violin School had their annual concert and on 4^th July local pianist and music teacher Joseph Hong and his students performed in aid of Pieta House.

Next up in the context of the annual Swift & Vanessa Festival we are looking forward to the SUSO Gospel Choir on the 17^th July and then on 18^th July we welcome two of the superstars of the Irish music scene, Deirdre Masterson & Ronan Tynan. (Booking via https://swiftandvanessa.com/events/)

To round off the summer we look forward to Mazurka Gypsy Jazz Band returning for a repeat visit on 20^th August. (Booking via Eventbrite.ie).

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. If you are not already on a Group WhatsApp, let our Rector know.

Baptisms

On Pentecost Sunday, 24^th May, Myles Michael Brady, son of Karley & Brendan was baptised in Christ Church, Celbridge. The Godparents are Yvonne Duffy & Travis Davidson. On 5^th July, Rory Marcus Andrew Peter Howgego, son of Louisa & James was baptised in Straffan Parish Church. The Godparents are Matthew Sudweeks-Ward, Tilen Iskra, Sarah Byrne, Eleanor Kearon & Elaine Carberry. On Sunday, 7^th June, Rufus Liam Gately, son of Sinead Gately was baptised in Christ Church, Celbridge. The Godparents are Caoimhe Gately & Dean Rowlands. We wish all the newly baptised every blessing in their journeys in faith and life.

Bereavements

Colin Evans of Celbridge died peacefully on May 14^th at St. Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown. Our deepest sympathy is extended to his sisters Linda, Grace & Bronwyn, brother Clifford, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, friends and especially his fellow worshippers in The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Celbridge. His funeral took place in Christ Church, Celbridge on Monday 18^th May at 12 noon followed by burial in Donacomper Cemetery.

James (Jim) Galligan of Celbridge died peacefully and surrounded by his loving family at his home in Celbridge on June, 29^th. Our deepest sympathy is extended to his wife June, children Edward, Frances & Andrew, daughter-in-law Ewa, siblings Bridie, Mary, Connie & Tom, sister-in-law Jill, nieces, nephews, extended family, many good friends and former customers of the Celbridge Pottery. Jim’s funeral took place on Thursday, 2^nd July in St. Patrick’s Church, Celbridge with cremation afterwards at Glasnevin Crematorium.

God of comfort, God of presence, stay beside me now, stay around me, within me, through me and before me, that in spite of pain, I may feel divine light lifting me up; that I may see signs of you guarding me, in peace, in calm by still waters. Amen. (Mothers; Union Prayer)

.Straffan Market & Car Boot Sale

The first of the season took place on 2^nd. Thanks to all who have helped at the Staffan Market & Car Boot Sales on May - 2^nd, 16^th & 30^th. June - 13^th & 27^th on the teas, baking, setting up and down, marshalling, and of course attending and buying! The remaining dates are - July - 11^th & 25^th. August - 8^th & 22^nd. September - 5^th & 19^th. October - 3^rd. A fuller report will be included in a future issue of CSNL NEWS.

First Friday Socials Report By Judith Gleeson.

The socials started in February and have been growing slowly. This is a relaxed group for anyone over 20 years old to come and chat, enjoy a cuppa and a biscuit or 4, make some new friends, play some board games and if you wish learn a new craft. There has been great competition on the Scrabble board and Buck-a-Roo has had everyone jumping. There’s Colouring sheets for those who wish to chat while keeping busy. Creative Activities have included flower making, candle decorating, creative bookmarks, 3D painting to name but a few. At our most recent meeting we had guest artist Mrs. Helen Wheeler come along to teach string painting. This was enjoyed by a good group of people and some fantastic results wee produced. Come along and join in. Open to men and women over 20 at a cost of €2. Next meeting Friday, 7^th August in the Slip Hall from 7.30 p.m., to 9.30 p.m. The dates for the rest of the year are:- 4^th September. 2^nd October. 6^th November and 4^th December - put in your diaries now!

RNLI - North Kildare Volunteers

Well done to the above who have raised €117,000 to fund a new D class inshore lifeboat for Wexford RNLI. The lifeboat will be named Cill Dara, recognising the inland branch’s steadfast commitment to saving lives at sea. The team’s efforts drew strong community support through street collections, a cooking demonstration, an abseil challenge and a concert by the Dublin Welsh Male Voice Choir. Wexford RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager David Sherwood says “Sincere thanks to all involved. These are vital funds that will power our next chapter in lifesaving at Wexford RNLI.” The team fundraised at the All Ireland Fleadh in Wexford including Dee Huddleston & Ken & Val Denner.

Newcastle-Lyons Quiz Answers & Results

The draw was held in St. Finian’s Church, Newcastle-Lyons on Sunday, 17^th May. Thanks to all who returned the quizzes and supported the quiz for the upkeep of the church. It made €740 and the prizes went to Ms. Marnane, Ms. Sweetnam, Mr. Kerr & Ms. Cox. The answers are:-

1. The Sopranos. (The mafia hit the high notes)

2. One Foot in the Grave. (Almost stepped six feet under)

3. The Dukes of Hazzard. (Risky rank of nobility)

4. MASH. (One way of eating potatoes)

5. Fawlty Towers. (“Watery fowls” - a misspelled sign for this establishment)

6. Mr. Bean. (A male legume)

7. Coronation Street. (Crown a monarch on this road)

8. Dr. Who. (Confused identity for this medic)

9. All Creatures Great and Small. (2^nd line of Cecil Frances Alexander’s famous hymn)

10. Star Trek. (Cosmic journey)

11. Prime Time. (The slot in the TV schedule)

12. Fair City. (Where the girls are so pretty)

13. Only Fools & Horses. (Exclusively idiots and equines)

14. The Other Bennet Sister. (Not Jane, Lizzie, Kitty or Lydia)

15. Call the Midwife. (Labour has started, get help)

16. Midsomer Murders. (A lot of killings towards the end of June)

17. Little House on the Prairie. (Humble abode in the wilderness)

18. Neighbours. (Them next door)

19. Cheers. (Slainte, prost)

20. Normal People. (Ordinary folk)

21. Mad Men. (Crazy dudes)

22. Lost. (Can’t find it)

23. The Chase. (Better than the catch)

24. Countdown. (5,4,3,2,1)

25. Father Ted. (That would be an ecumenical matter)

Chuckle Time!

In St. Michael-le-Belfrey Church, York, the Lord’s Prayer is written in full. The sign-writer had difficulty getting each phrase onto a separate line, so the Lord’s Prayer begins - beautifully and simply - ‘Our Father which art in heaven, hallo’

The Friends Of Christ Church Cathedral Tour - 2^nd June

This was led by Geoffrey McMaster. Geoffrey spent ten years as a volunteer, much of it showing visitors around, where he often highlighted the glass, a walking encyclopaedia of its details and full of insights and symbolism and patrons.

New Flower Guild - Christ Church, Celbridge

Would you like to help with flowers in the church? We are setting up a new flower guild and would love to hear from anyone interested in being involved. Contact our Rector.

Congratulations - Ivy & Vine Restaurant

Wishing this parish family and their new Mediteranean style restaurant in Celbridge every success. 01-6937775. eat@ivyandvine.ie.

Slip Hall

There is now some availability for morning hires in the hall. Please send enquiries to email:csnparishhall@gmail.com.

Straffan Roof Fundraising Event & Launch - Saturday, 16^th May

It took the form of a concert with the Dublin Welsh Male Voice Choir and the newly formed Straffan Community Choir which was preceded by a prosecco and canapés reception for all the attendees who included not only parishioners and friends but also local clergy and Archbishop Michael Jackson and members of the wider community and representatives of the Dail and local council along with members of the project team who will be doing the necessary works over the next few years. During the interval Jos Evertsen gave a fulsome overview of the project and issued a rallying call to all present go get behind this project which will ensure that this beautiful building will be there for generations to come and for the benefit of the whole local community.

The project is at the planning stage at the moment and in conjunction with the professional bodies headed up by FKP Architects we are planning the first phase of the works and the necessary fundraising programme. Watch this space for further developments.

Thanks

Thanks to all who helped at the work parties in both Straffan & Celbridge Church grounds and all those who maintain the church grounds over the summer. Thanks fo Dee Huddleston for taking the service in Straffan on Sundays, 4^th May, 7^th June & 5^th July. Also for speaking about the work of Christian Aid. There were retiring collections for the work on two Sundays in May. Thanks to all who contributed.

Confirmation - 24^th May - Christ Church Cathedral

A very pleasant group of young people from our own parish and that of Lucan & Leixlip were confirmed on Pentecost Sunday, 24^th May in Christ Church Cathedral at 3.30 p.m. Please continue to pray for Julia Lipson, Zara Moss-Weir, Eva Beattie & Eva Ruddy. There were 89 in all confirmed that day.

Calendar Of Events

July

Fri 17 SUSO Concert. Christ Church, Celbridge.

Sat 18 Deirdre Masterson & Ronan Tynan Concert.

Christ Church, Celbridge.

Sat 25 Straffan Market & Car Boot Sale.

August

Fri 7 1^st Friday Social. Slip Hall, Celbridge. 7.30 p.m.

Sat 8 Straffan Market & Car Boot Sale.

Thu 20 Mazurka Gypsy Jazz Band. Christ Church, Celbridge.

Sat 22 Straffan Market & Car Boot Sale.

Sun 30 United Service. Christ Church, Celbridge. 11.30 a.m.

September

Fri 4 1^st Friday Social. Slip Hall, Celbridge. 7.30 p.m.

Sat 5 Straffan Market & Car Boot Sale.

Mon 7 Closing date for next issue of CSNL NEWS.

Sat 19 Straffan Market & Car Boot Sale.

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

Straffan Sunday Services Live Streamed

https://www.churchmedia.tv/straffon-church-of-ireland and www.facebook.com/CSNLParish.

Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. John 16:24.

Friday, 26 June 2026

Work Party CCC 27th June

Saturday, 13 June 2026

Flower Guild @ Christ Church Celbridge

Monday, 11 May 2026

CSNL News May June 2026

Issue 94 CSNL NEWS May/June, 2026

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 ..

I write these words as I prepare for a funeral of a dearly loved parishioner. This is one of many in recent weeks and months (it has been a particularly difficult and painful time for so many people in our parish) and in a small community such as is the Church of Ireland these losses are acutely felt. This sense of loss is of course not to be compared with the loss faced by the families who have been bereaved but as a church family we also grieve and apart form that there are very few of us who have not had to deal with personal grief at some point in our lives. And yet this is the season of Resurrection when we focus on the Hope given to us by what Jesus did on the Cross and the Resurrection which followed. And that is our faith but that does not mean that we suddenly stop feeling our loss and grief. We cannot turn it off like a tap. It is something that both individually, as families and as a church family we live with and perhaps grow more accustomed to but it does not go away. There is a brokenness that comes through grief and that will always be a part of us. We may stick ourselves back together but the cracks remain. We are in a sense like cracked pots with visible repairs and patches, inherently fragile. Perhaps if we could all learn to see that in each other we would be kinder to each other. Lets all remember that we are surrounded by cracked pots (not crackpots).

Yours Stephen

Confirmation - 24^th May - Christ Church Cathedral

This year we are combining with Lucan/Leixlip for Confirmation classes due to the vacancy in that parish. Our Rector is conducting these classes in Lucan Parish Centre. The Confirmation will be on Pentecost Sunday, 24^th May in Christ Church Cathedral at 3.30 p.m. Please pray for the candidates especially those from this parish: Julia Lipson, Zara Moss-Weir, Eva Beattie & Eva Ruddy.

On Going Events

Craft & Chat: The group continues to meet in the Slip Hall at 2.30 p.m., on Tuesdays for crafting, chat and coffee. All welcome.

Wednesday Night Prayers: These are now being held from 8 p.m., to 9 p.m., in the home of Dee Huddleston in Straffan. If anybody would like details they can contact Rev. Stephen or Dee Huddleston. Everyone is very welcome to come along. The emphasis is on prayers for healing and support for those facing particular challenges. Let them know if there is something you would like them to pray about.

Whist Drives: They continue to be very popular with good turnouts in both March and April, with the last of the season in aid of the RNLI. Thanks to all who supplied prizes and provided the lovely suppers.

Church Services

Sunday Newcastle 9 a.m* Straffan 10.15 a.m. Celbridge 11.30 a.m.

1^st Holy Communion Service of Word Holy Communion

2^nd Service of Word Holy Communion Service of Word

3^rd Holy Communion Morning Prayer Holy Communion

4^th Morning Prayer Holy Communion Morning Prayer

5^th 31/05/26. Trinity Sunday

Service of Word Holy Communion Service of Word

*Services will continue in Newcastle at 10 a.m., on the 1^st Sunday as a permanent change in the Sunday timetable.

World Day Of Prayer - Friday, 6^th March

The service was held in the Slip Hall and was well supported by the local Christian Churches despite clashing with a major sports event. The focus this year was on Nigeria and there were some very moving and challenging stories shared in the liturgy It was good to be joined by all the local clergy from the Roman Catholic parish of Celbridge & Straffan including the PP Fr. Philip Curran and assistant priests Fr. Peter Nwigwe & Fr. Jonathan Nwankwo who are from the Diocese of Abakaliki, Nigeria and for whom the stories resonated greatly. After the service a lovely supper was served and the participants had the opportunity to share some enjoyable fellowship. €462.60 was collected and sent to the Irish WDOP committee.

Bereavements

Sincere condolences to the Gately family of Celbridge on the death of Anne Gately, Wadelai, Glasnevin, mother of the late Liam, mother-in-law of Valerie and grandmother of Ciara, Darragh, Sinead, Emmet & Caoimhe and all the grandchildren and extended family. May she rest in peace and rise in glory.

Elizabeth Burbridge Waldron of Newcastle parish died on 16^th March in the arms of her loving husband Tony and surrounded by her family after an illness which she fought with dignity and courage. Elizabeth was a very faithful parishioner who deeply loved her church where among many and numerous duties she served as warden and parochial nominator. Many have said that she made them so welcome when they first attended the church. She will be greatly missed and we extend our prayers to Tony and to Damien & Sarah, her children, grandchildren Caoimhe, Kate, Eabhin & Orlaith, son-in-law Denis and her four brothers Peter, Paul, John & Simon and sister Jane and all the wider family. Her funeral took place in St. Finian‘s Church, Newcastle-Lyons on 20^th March and the burial in Newcastle Graveyard.

June Gleeson (nee Knowd), of Celbridge, died peacefully in the loving care of the staff at Maynooth Community Care, where she had lived for a number of years due to illness. June was also both a churchwarden and parochial nominator and a very committed member of the Healer Prayer Group which met every Wednesday for prayer for the sick and those in various need. A theatre sister in earlier years this was a natural continuance of her work in the caring profession of nursing. She was predeceased by her husband Albert and is deeply missed by her sons James (Jim), Peter & John, grandchildren Richard, Leanne, Nicole & Ashleigh and daughters-in-law Judith & Colette and the wider family to whom we extend our prayers. Her funeral took place in Christ Church, Celbridge on 2^nd April and was followed by cremation at Newlands Cross.

Sincere condolences to his beloved wife Gwen, much-loved daughters Lorna & Alison, granddaughters Ruby & Molly and all the family on the death of Tom (Sonny) Watkins after a short illness. Tom was a very dedicated Straffan parishioner and was warm and welcoming to

everyone he met. He will be dearly missed in the parish and by his brothers John & Ernest, sister Mary, sons-in-law Mark & Peter and the wider family. His funeral took place on Wednesday, 6^th May in Straffan Church and cremation followed in Newlands Cross Crematorium. May all who died rest in peace and rise in glory.

Straffan Roof Fundraising Event & Launch - Saturday, 16^th May.

As many people will be aware Straffan Church has some major issues that require urgent attention. Following a recent and extensive survey it was determined that remedial and restorative works are needed to ensure the future integrity of the building. These works involve among other things substantial roof repairs and renovation of the valleys, gutters and downspouts. This will be a 7 figure project and presents a major challenge to the parish. It is obviously something we cannot do without fundraising and grant support. To that end we are launching the project on Saturday, 16^th May with a concert in Straffan Church at which the Dublin Welsh Male Voice Choir will perform along with a newly formed Straffan Community Choir. There will be a presentation of the project on the night to an audience of parishioners, friends and invited guests. While there is a fundraising element to this launch the main purpose is to highlight the project as we start the journey to raise the necessary funds to ensure that this beautiful church which we hold in trust for the whole community will be there for generations to come.

Tickets are available at €25 from Dee Huddleston, Jos Evertsen & our Rector. Doors open 7.30 p.m., for 8 p.m.

Explore Your Vocation - 27^th June. Crinken Church, Bray.

Organised by Dublin & Glendalough’s Directors of Ordinands, the day is designed to support those who feel a wish to serve God bur are not sure where to start. For more information and to book a place - email rector@crinken.ie. All are welcome.

Newcastle-Lyons Quiz - closing date 15^th May. Draw - 17^th May.

Don’t forget the above deadline! The Editor has enjoyed it.

Chuckle Time

From a parish newsletter - not this one. “When it comes to giving, some people stop at nothing.”

Newcastle-Lyons Easter General Vestry - Report By Maggie Harris

The EGV for Newcastle-Lyons was held on 14^th April in St. Finian’s Church. Rev. Stephen opened the meeting with prayers and by thanking everyone for attending. The passing of another year brings a lot of changes some of them very painful. As we meet tonight we are all very conscious that there is someone very dear to us all who is not among us, Elizabeth Burbridge Waldron. We also think of other parishioners who have also lost a family member over the last year. There has also been great celebrations held in this church, the wedding of Lauren & Ivan. Amid these highs and lows the life of the parish has gone on and at this point I want to formally thank a few people in particular but this is not exhaustive so if I don’t mention you please do not feel excluded. Firstly to thank our Hon. Secretary, Maggie for her oversight of the parochial administration and especially her preparations for tonight’s meeting. Thank you to our Hon. Treasurer, Sandra, who as always brings us the accounts in a very clear and digestible form and presents a realistic picture of where we are and the challenges we face. To our Churchwardens, Vivien and remembering Elizabeth, your colleague, thank you for all that you do and have done. Thanks too to Peter Hildebrand who is retiring from the Vestry after many years. Peter always looked after our heating and lighting issues, Dave & Sandra have now taken over that role. To our Glebewardens, Mervyn & Tony thank you for your oversight of the church property. And as always thanks to Geoffrey McMaster who is a tremendous support in ministry and a very important local presence here in Newcastle and of course his wife, Angela.

Sandra presented accounts within the formats prescribed by the charities regulator. We incurred a small surplus for the year which was very welcome bun unlikely to continue. The accounts were approved by all at the meeting. Many thanks as ever to Gordon Bass for reviewing the accounts on our behalf. Finally, to all parishioners past and present who have supported and continue to support the witness to and worship of Almighty God.

Annual Elections:

Churchwarden - Rector’s Vivien Bond.

Churchwarden - People’s Tony Waldron.

Glebewarden - Rector’s Mervyn Eager.

Glebewarden - People’s Devon Beattie.

Select Vestry:

Michael Lowery Avril Kerr Olive Roache

Sandra Doble Maggie Harris Andrew Jordan

Claire Burke Willie Harris

Parochial Nominators: Vivien Bond. Claire Burke.

Parochial Nominators - Supplementals: Maggie Harris. Tony Waldron.

Diocesan Synodsperson: Geoffrey McMaster.

Diocesan Synodsperson - Supplemental: Maggie Harris.

Celbridge & Straffan Easter General Vestry Report By Naomi Pasley

The annual EGV meeting for Celbridge & Straffan took place on the evening of the 21^st April. This important meeting provided an opportunity for all parishioners to come together to reflect on the year that is past and to be involved in the planning and priorities for the year to come. In addition to the election of the Select Vestry, who will manage the practical management of the parishes for the coming year, this year marked the triennial elections for our representatives to Diocesan Synod. As we welcomed the incoming members the Rector took time to reflect and thank those who have served in the past years and are now retiring. The transcript of Rev. Stephen’s address is shared here:

“Friends - Thank you for another year of support and journeying together as a parish. I remain happy and committed to my role in this parish but I am I hope always open to suggestions and criticism where required. As is always the case another year brings change and not all of that change is easy and least of all that of bereavement and loss. I want to take this opportunity to recall those from our parish who have died in this past year, we remember Anne Lambe, Martha Howard & June Gleeson. On a happier note we have had some good events with Summer & Christmas Fairs and the recent plant sale and it is good to see the new Parish social group get up and running - thanks to Judith Gleeson for making this happen. The car boot sales are back next weekend and they not only bring income but more importantly build and nurture community and that is central to what we as Church are about. So thank you to Jos Evertsen and all the team of stewards and the tea crew and all those who make this happen. The after church refreshments in Celbridge continue to mean a lot to people and actually make the worship that precedes them more meaningful when it happens in the context of hospitality which is central to the Gospel. It is good to see that this is now happening in Straffan too. The Straffan Work parties organised by Robert Moody are an ongoing success and are always well supported and great fun. Also in Straffan we are now on the verge of launching the Restoration appeal and it will be challenging but I think also a very positive project for the parish to gather around.

I have some additional words of thanks. Firstly again to you as Vestry members for your ongoing commitment and support. Naomi Pasley, our Secretary, whose diligence is a great help and support to the parish. Gordon Bass, our Treasurer, for his ongoing and as always efficient management of parish finance. Thank you to Dee Huddleston & Geoffrey McMaster, Diocesan Lay Ministers based in our parish. In this past year we marked the retirement of Cynthia Lang after many years of faithful service and record our thanks for all she contributed to the life and work of the parish. Organists, Jenny Shaw, Dorothy Evertsen, James Pasley (and occasionally Zoe Lipson) and the choirs in both churches. Churchwardens: Paula Howard, Trish Pasley, Dee Huddleston & Shirley Dunlop. Glebewardens: Edward Manta & Ken Denner and sincere thanks to Thomas Hardy who is stepping down this year. Thank you to Ken & Val Denner for their hard work in maintaining the church and hall. Lilian Webb, our Magazine Editor, Church Cleaning & Flower Arranging rotas, Rebecca Taylor and all the Craft & Chat members, Dee Huddleston & Ken Denner for the Whist Drives. And finally to all our parishioners - Thank You.

The following are the Parish Officers for the coming year 2026/2027.

Rector’s Church Wardens - Celbridge Paula Howard.

- Straffan - shared - Dee Huddleston & Shirley Dunlop.

Rector’s Glebe Warden - Celbridge Edward Manta.

People’s Church Wardens - Celbridge Patricia Pasley.

- Straffan - shared - Dee Huddleston & Shirley Dunlop.

The remaining members of the Select Vestry:-

Gordon Bass (Hon. Treasurer). Naomi Pasley (Hon. Secretary).

Linda Daly Ken Denner Dorothy Evertsen Lucy Jones

Esther Lougheed Robert Moody Georgina Touhy

Every three years elections must be held to elect our representatives for Diocesan Synod and our Parochial Nominators. The following are elected for the next three years:

Synodspersons: Robert Moody & James Pasley.

Supplementals: Dee Huddleston & Paula Howard.

Parochial Nominators: Jos Evertsen & Esther Lougheed.

Supplementals: Debbie Kelly & Ken Denner.

Celbridge & Straffan - Treasurer’s Report - May, 2026.

The Parish Annual Financial Accounts for 2025 were presented to the recent Easter General Vestry. The financial outcome for the year on a stand-alone basis was satisfactory, we had a surplus of income over expenditure, always a good thing! The following points arising from the Accounts may be of interest:

€128,000 - total cost of running the Parish and maintaining Parish property last year.

€58,000 - our payment to the Diocese (this provides for our Rector and it also covers our apportioned share of Diocesan overheads).

€32,000 - repairs and maintenance costs for all Parish property including the Rectory.

€15,000 - cost of heating & lighting all Parish buildings excluding the Rectory.

€13,000 - our annual insurance premium for 2025.

€11,000 - Fund Raising receipts for 2025.

€47,000 - total amount received directly from Parishioners (excluding €12,000 Tax refunds we received on personal donations).

You will note from the above that Parishioners’ donations plus the Tax refunds on these only provided sufficient funds to meet our obligatory payments to the Diocese. We had to raise the majority of the remaining €70,000 of our running costs elsewhere - eg. Fund raising; rental income from our Parish buildings etc. We did succeed in these endeavours again last year but how sustainable this situation is in the longer term is very much open to question. Anyone who would like information on how they could subscribe to Parish income can contact me (contact details below) any time and I will be delighted to have a chat (in confidence) with you about it. My final point is to emphasise that everyone who contributed financially to the Parish during 2025, deserves thanks and appreciation from all of us. Our Parish could not exist without you. Thank you. Gordon Bass - Hon. Treasurer.

Calendar Of Events

May

Sun 10 Christian Aid Week commences.

Thu 14 Ascension Day.

Fri 15 Closing date for Newcastle-Lyons quiz.

Sat 16 Straffan Market & Car Boot Sale.

Concert & Launch of Straffan Restoration. Straffan

Church. 7.30 p.m doors open.

Sun 17 Draw for quiz. St. Finian’s Church.

Sun 24 Confirmation. Christ Church Cathedral. 3.30 p.m.

Sat 30 Straffan Market & Car Boot Sale

Concert. Christ Church, Celbridge.

June

Fri 5 Social. Slip Hall, Celbridge. 7.30 p.m.

Sat 6 Concert. Christ Church, Celbridge.

Sat 13 Straffan Market & Car Boot Sale.

Sat 27 Straffan Market & Car Boot Sale.

Explore Vocations. Crinken Church.

July

Fri 3 Social. Slip Hall, Celbridge. 7.30 p.m.

Tue 7 Closing date for next issue of CSNL NEWS.

Sat 11 Straffan Market & Car Boot Sale.

Palm Sunday, Holy Week & Easter

Our Rector says “Thank you to all who made the Holy week & Easter services so meaningful and uplifting. A special thanks to our lay ministers, wardens, readers, organists and choirs, those who decorated our churches and those who provided refreshments and most importantly chocolate. As always particularly inspiring were the Way of The Cross processions between our local churches and across the denominations. We are a Resurrection people but the observance of the solemnity of Holy Week is vital in reminding us of the pain and hurt that can be transformed by the Cross.”

Celebrating Success At Girls Brigade By Naomi Pasley

On Saturday, 2^nd May the girls of the Girls Brigade concluded their session with a special showcase of their favourite activities of the year for family and friends. This year included a special arts and crafts event coordinated by Lucy Jones, who joined the leadership team this year and has inspired the girls to explore their creative abilities. The audience were treated to a display of dancing, singing and skipping and the morning concluded with the presentation of the awards and badges which reflect all aspects of our annual programme and are worn with such pride. We will return in September and new members are always welcome to join us for fun and friendship. You can learn more about the work of The Girls Brigade in Ireland and internationally at https://www.girlsbrigadeirl.ie/ or contact me informally at any time.

Christ Church. Celbridge Concerts - Past & Future

The concert on 1^st May by Celine Byrne was sold out. Forthcoming concerts are by Tom Cole on 30^th May and Sean Keane on 6^th June. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.

WhatsApp Groups

Baptism & Wedding Congratulations

Nathan Eli Savage was baptised in Straffan Church on Sunday, 26^th April, son of Craig & Cathy Savage of Straffan. The godparents are Jamie McDonald & Laura Conalty. We wish Nathan Eli every blessing in his journey in faith and life.

Congratulations to Nina Huddleston & Jaap Lichtendonk who were due to celebrate their wedding in Straffan Chruch on Friday, 8^th May with family and friends from Ireland and the Netherlands as this issue was being prepared.

Slip Hall

There is now some availability for morning hires in the hall. Please send enquiries to email:csnparishhall@gmail.com.

.Straffan Market & Car Boot

The first of the season took place on 2^nd May and the following are the dates for the remainder of the year. Thanks to all who have agreed to help on the teas, setting up and down and marshalling etc.

May - 2^nd, 16^th & 30^th. June - 13^th & 27^th. July - 11^th & 25^th.

August - 8^th & 22^nd. September - 5^th & 19^th. October - 3^rd.

First Friday Socials

These take place from 7.30 p.m., to 9.30 p.m., in the Slip Hall, Celbridge for over 20’s only! We are an easy-going social group for adults dedicated to fun, chats and bringing a little bit of joy. There will be games, crafts, music, skill-sharing and more. As well as seasonal activities. You and your ideas are welcome! The dates for the rest of the year are:- 5^th June. 3^rd July. 7^th August. 4^th September. 2^nd October. 6^th November and 4^th December - put in your diaries now!

The group do not tolerate any form of abuse or hate speech. This social is run by Church of Ireland volunteers for the whole community. We are not funded. Please do not expect miracles! Things to bring:- An open mind. €2 for tea/coffee and biccies. A sense of fun. Curiosity. A smile! Ideas.

Mothering Sunday & St. Patrick’s Day

Mothering Sunday was celebrated in all 3 churches on Sunday, 15^th March. A service of Holy Communion was celebrated on St. Patrick‘s Day in Christ Church, Celbridge and there was shamrock available to wear.

Celbridge Community Council stated that they would like to take this opportunity to thank Stephen Neill and the Church of Ireland, Celbridge, for their generous help and support of the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Their kindness and willingness to assist with preparations are greatly appreciated. Community support like this is the backbone of events such as our parade and without it, we would not be able to bring the celebrations to the community each year.

Christian Aid Week - 10^th - 16^th May - Turning Hunger To Hope

The emphasis of the above this year is on helping people like Fridah Moraa from Nairobi join a project that enables her to grow vegetables, enough to cook and surplus to sell on her market stall.