Parish of Celbridge & Straffan with Newcastle-Lyons

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

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.

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.

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, 17 April 2026

Quizsheet Fundraiser for St Finians Newcastle-Lyons

Please share the this quiz sheet far and wide – It is fundraiser for St. Finian’s Church Newcastle-Lyons, the smallest of our three churches in this parish but also the oldest by many multiples, dating back to 1200AD when the square tower was constructed. A standing cross in the graveyard is thought to be even older, dating to the 7th Century. Maintaining this historic place of worship and national heritage which is listed as a National Monument is a heavy burden on a small congregation and fundraising is vital in helping us ensure that this beautiful church will be there for many generations to come. Many thanks to Sandra Doble who compiled the quiz.

Monday, 13 April 2026

Vocations Day - 27th June 2026

Saturday, 4 April 2026

Easter Vestries 2026

Notice of Easter General Vestries:

Celbridge Straffan Tuesday 21st April at 8pm in Primrose Hill School

& Newcastle Tuesday 14th April in St Finian's Church at 8pm

Monday, 30 March 2026

Straffan Church Building Restoration Project

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 downpipes. 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. There will be a presentation of the project on the night to an audience of parishioners, friends and invited guests. While there will be a fundraising element to this launch the main purpose will be 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 will be available shortly.

Saturday, 28 March 2026

Holy Week & Easter Services

Monday, 9 March 2026

CSNL NEWS March April 2026

Issue 93 CSNL NEWS March/April, 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 ..

As I write these notes there is finally a touch of Spring in the air. After all the rain, the sun has finally appeared and I am sure I am not the only one who wonders is this what Noah felt like when his time on the Ark was finally over as the waters subsided. It is a lovely time of year, new birth, new hope and new life are all around us in nature. And yet in our World there is also a lot of darkness as wars seem to proliferate on an almost daily basis. But, we are a people of Hope and as we journey towards another Easter let us put our trust in a God who does extraordinary things and will continue to do extraordinary things. Our yesterdays do not determine our tomorrows and as we pray for Peace and for those bearing the burden of suffering at this time let us not be afraid to hope and live for a better tomorrow.

Yours Stephen

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 29/03/2026. Palm Sunday. Services in all churches at usual times.

*Services will continue in Newcastle at 10 a.m., on the 1^st Sunday as a permanent change in the Sunday timetable. Exception - as Easter Sunday is 5^th April, Holy Communion at 9 a.m.

Straffan Sunday Services Live Streamed

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

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.

Whist Drives: They continue to be very popular with good turnouts in both January and February. The March date is Friday, 27^th and in April, Friday, 24^th starting at 8 p.m., in the Slip Hall, with a lovely supper at half time. Lots of prizes too and new members always welcome.

World Day Of Prayer - Friday, 6^th March

A report will appear in the next issue of CSNL NSWS. This year the service was held in The Slip Hall, Celbridge and was written by the women of Nigeria. The theme was “I will give your rest: Come.” Matthew 11:28-30. Focusing on finding solace and peace in God amidst worldly burdens like shame, poverty and persecution, with service and community support being the key elements of divine rest.

Coffee/Tea/Biscuits - Straffan Church

Since the last issue, there have been refreshments after church, which provides an opportunity for chat after the service - there always was outside - but now in the comfort of the church. Thanks to Dee Huddleston.

Chuckle Time!

A clergyman, a keen cricketer, was concerned over whether or not cricket was played in heaven. He prayed that he might have a vision to find out. His prayer was answered. An angel appeared to him in a dream. The angel said: “Yes, the good news is that cricket is played in heaven. The bad news is that you are in the team for next week.”

Easter General Vestries

These will be held after Easter - dates so be announced. This is the year for the Triennial elections, as well as voting for churchwardens, glebe wardens, Select Vestry, there will be nominations for Diocesan Synods Persons and Parochial Nominators.

Thanks

,.. to Geoffrey McMaster for leading the Service of the Word in Straffan on St. Brigid’s Day and preaching on the saint and to Dee Huddleston, for leading the Service of the Word in Straffan on Sunday,1^st March - St. David’s Day.

Lent, Mothering Sunday, St. Patrick’s Day, Holy Week & Easter

Sunday, 15^th March. Mothering Sunday. Services in all churches will celebrate both Mother Church and our human mothers.

Tuesday, 17^th March. St. Patrick’s Day. Holy Communion. 11 a.m. Christ Church, Celbridge.

Sunday, 29^th March. Palm Sunday. Service in all 3 churches.

Wednesday, 1^st April. Spy Wednesday. A Service of Compline. 8 p.m. St. Finian’s Church, Newcastle-Lyons.

Thursday, 2^nd April. Maundy Thursday. Holy Communion & Stripping of the Altar. Straffan Church. 8 p.m.

Friday, 3^rd April. Good Friday. Way of The Cross processions. Straffan. 10 a.m. Starting at Straffan Church of Ireland. Celbridge. 12 noon. Starting at Christ Church, Celbridge. Newcastle-Lyons. 12 noon. Starting at St. Finian’s Church of Ireland.

Saturday, 4^th April. Holy Saturday. 8.30 p.m. Lighting of Easter Fire & Easter Eve Eucharist. Straffan Church.

Sunday, 5^th April. Easter Sunday. 6.30 a.m. Dawn Ecumenical Service. Castletown Gates, Celbridge. 9 a.m. Holy Communion. St. Finian’s Church, Newcastle-Lyons. 10.15. Holy Communion. Straffan. 11.30. Holy Communion. Christ Church, Celbridge.

First Friday Social - Slip Hall - Becomes 2^nd Friday For 2 Months!

Friday, 6^th February marked the launch night of the First Friday Social Club in the Slip Hall which was the initiative of Judith Gleeson of Celbridge parish but ably assisted by a number of others. It is a chance to meet together and play games, do some crafts or even a bit of music. Only €2 and anyone 20 years or over is welcome.

Normally, the 1^st Friday but because of the World Day of Prayer Service, the Social will take place on 13^th March. Also as the 1^st Friday in April is Good Friday, there will be no Social that night. Because of a prior booking, the Social Evening in May will be held on 8^th May. Meetings from 7.30 p.m., to 9.30 p.m. All 20 years and older welcome for a varied evening of crafts, games, chat and tea!

From The Editor - Focus On Church Of Ireland Gazette

As a subscriber to the above, albeit on-line, the future of the Gazette is grave in relation to a printed copy. In 1856, the first edition of the Gazette stated: “We have long felt it desirable that there should be some means of making the Clergy in Ireland acquainted with all that is going on in the Ecclesiastical world.” As an Editor of the humble parish newsletter, now over 90 issues, and having been Editor of a previous Union’s newsletter for over 200 issues, I understand how important a publication is.

In order to survive, new subscriptions are needed, and donations, large and small. The R.C.B cannot guarantee funding beyond the end of 2026. Administrative costs have been pared back to the bare minimum and the administration now relies almost entirely on the goodwill and voluntary labour of Board members and others. The new Editor, Clark Brydon, is a strong advocate for the Gazette’s digital presence, but like me, this would inevitably exclude some readers. This is the reason that I only give the contents of CSNL NEWS to our Rector to put up on line, after I have been to the 3 churches on the Sunday, it is issued. The Gazette covers news of the 32 counties and beyond, has some very thoughtful contributions and is published 10 times a year.

Confirmation - 24^th May - Christ Church Cathedral

Skyla

Parishioners and visitors to Christ Church, Celbridge will have been long familiar with one of our more regular parishioners of the four legged variety - Skyla was considered by many as the parish dog and loved by all - even non-doggy people. She was of the most placid and laid back disposition and was an integral part of the welcome that people enjoy when they come to our churches. She didn’t mind strangers petting her or kids hanging out of her and she broke the ice for many a newcomer to our church. Sadly Skyla died last weekend and she leaves a big gap in our church community - our sympathy especially to Lucy who was her principal human and also Simon (Lucy’s husband) for sharing her with us.

Straffan Market & Car Boot - Update By Jos Evertsen

Hopefully, we will have a dryer season than last year. The dates for the 2026 season have been set and ready for the diaries. We hope to have 12 events this year. The weather will determine that of course. The dates are:-

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.

We will have our annual pre-season TEAM meeting on Wednesday, 18^th March from 8.30 p.m., to 9.30 p.m., in the Straffan Community Hall. It gives us an opportunity to discuss various things that will help us to run our bi-monthly event smoothly. Of course any new volunteers are always welcome. Just come along on Wednesday evening, 18^th March.

Christ Church. Celbridge Concerts - Past & Future

It has been a busy few months for concerts with Mary Coughlan on 6^th January, Jack L on 29^th January, Gearoid McCarthy on 13^th February and Paschall Brennan Joe Dolan Tribute Band on 7^th March. The next date to put in your diary is 1^st May when Celine Byrne will be in concert - tickets available on Eventbrite.

WhatsApp Groups

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.

Ash Wednesday - 18^th February

Holy Communion was celebrated in Christ Church, Celbridge at 11 a.m., and at 7 p.m., in Straffan Church.

Bereavement

Martha Howard died peacefully at home after a long illness on Thursday, 5^th February in the presence of her loving children, Charlotte & Graeme. She was also much loved in the parish and by a wide circle of friends which was reflected in the very large congregation at her funeral which took place in Christ Church, Celbridge on Wednesday, 11^th February with cremation in Newlands Cross. At her funeral both Charlotte & Graeme spoke of her with great affection and with some humour which Martha would have appreciated. We give thanks for her life and pray comfort for Charlotte & Graeme and all who loved her.

Baptism

On 17^th January, Henry James John Huddleston, son of James & Rebekah of Barberstown, Straffan was baptised in Straffan Parish Church. The Godparents are Laura Byrne & Wenbo Cao. We wish Henry every blessing in his journey in faith and life.

Calendar Of Events

March

Fri 13 Social Evening. 7.30 p.m. Slip Hall, Celbridge.

Sun 15 Mothering Sunday.

Tue 17 St. Patrick’s Day. Holy Communion. 11 a.m. Christ Church, Celbridge.

Wed 18 Staffan Community Hall. 8.30 p.m. Straffan Market & Car Boot meeting.

Fri 27 Whist Drive. Slip Hall. Celbridge. 8 p.m.

Sun 29 Palm Sunday services in all 3 churches.

April

Wed 1 Compline. 8 p.m. St. Finian’s Church, Newcastle.

Thu 2 Holy Communion & Stripping of Altar cloth. 8 p.m. Straffan Church.

Fri 3 Good Friday. Way of the Cross processions. All commencing at the Church of Ireland churches. 10 a.m. Straffan. Noon. Celbridge & Newcastle.

Sat 4 Easter Eve Eucharist & Lighting of Easter Fire. 8.30 p.m. Straffan Church.

Sun 5 Easter Sunday. 6.30 a.m. Dawn Ecumenical Service. Castletown Gates, Celbridge. Holy Communion in all 3 churches.

Fri 24 Whist Drive. Slip Hall. Celbridge. 8 p.m.