progress PORTMARNOCK PARISHNEWSLETTER

TEAM MINISTRY OFMALAHIDE-KINSEALY-

YELLOW WALLS-PORTMARNOCK

July/August 2016 Vol. 3 No. 52FEBRUARY 2019 Vol 3: No 77

CONTENTS Page No750 Club Results 12

Advertisements 8 & 9

Baptisms 12

Beginning Experience 2

Bethany Bereavement Support 2

Baptism Team Volunteers 3

Blessing of the Sick 3

Community Notices 6 & 7

Confirmation Dates 2

Counselling Service 2

Deaths 2

Devotions 12

Diary Dates 12

Dr. Laura’s Diary 4

First Communion Dates 2

Fr. Jimmy…...a Word 3

Gluten Free hosts 2

Hard of hearing 2

Housebound? 2

Legion of Mary 12

Mission Statement 5

Parish Information 12

Peace Candle 5

Pilgrimage to Lourdes 3

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje 2

Pmk Community Association 8

Prayer for February 1

St. Brigid 1

SVP Christmas Collection 7

Welcome to Portmarnock 2

What makes a good marriage 9

St. Brigid, Abbess and

Patron of IrelandFeast Day 1st February

1. Who is St Brigid?Born in Dundalk in 450 AD St Brigid was the founder of the first monastery in County Kildare, Ireland. Her father was a pagan chieftain of Leinster and her mother was a Christian. St Patrick inspired her to become a Catholic and spread the word of God. 2. Patron Saint of IrelandSt Brigid is also known as Mary of the Gael or Muire na nGael aka Our Lady of the Irish. She is one of the Patron Saints of Ireland, along with St Patrick and St Columcille.3. Taking a standWhen she was young, St Brigid wanted to join a convent; however her father took a firm stand and insisted that she marry the wealthy man he had promised her to. The story goes that she asked for God’s help to take away her beauty so that the man wouldn’t want to marry her. Her wish was granted, her father caved in and she joined the convent. Not only did her beauty return but apparently she was even more beautiful than ever. She called on God’s help again to convince her father to give her land in Kildare to set up a convent. Her father said that he would only give her as much land as her cloak could cover. Silly man. With God’s help, the cloak grew to cover acres of land. 4. *The story of the CrossSt Brigid was by the sick bed of a dying pagan chieftain, possibly her father, soothing him with stories about Catholicism and her belief in God. She began telling the story of Christ on the Cross, picking up rushes from the ground to make a cross. Before his death, the chieftain asked to be baptised.Initially, legend has it, people used to make similar crosses to hang over the door of their homes to ward off evil, fire and hunger. Over time, word spread about St Brigid, her kindness, faith and the making of the cross became synonymous with her and the tradition now bears her name.

Have a look at YouTube and see how the cross is made!5. Where is she buried?St Brigid died at the age of 75 in AD 525 and was buried in the church she created. Her remains were exhumed years later and brought to Downpatrick to be buried alongside Saints Patrick and Columcille. However her skull was brought to Lisbon where it remains today.

Prayer for February Bail Ó Dhia oraibh

Ó Shamhainn go Lá ‘le Bríde, Ó Lá ‘le Bríde go Bealtaine

Ó Bealtaine to Lúnasa, Is Ó Lúanasa go Samhain

Amen

God’s Blessing on you from Halloween to Brigid’s Day

From Brigid’s Day to May Day, from May Day to August

and from August to Halloween

Amen

St. Brigid’s Cross*

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We offer the sympathy of all parishioners to the families of

Lilly Chambers, Harty Place, Dublin 8Lilli Caraher, formerly Onward Close

Helen Harbison, formerly Blackthorn CloseEileen Connolly, Suncroft Avenue

Kathleen Furlong, St. Anne’s SquareBernadette Cunningham, Portmarnock Rise

Nicholas Maguire, The Fairways, Seabrook ManorMargaret Brogan, Blackberry RiseMaria Walsh, Portmarnock Drive

who died recently

The Bethany Bereavement Support Group offers support to bereaved people by listening to them. Many Bethany members have themselves been bereaved. We are trained to listen with understanding and are here to support anyone dealing with the very painful experience of grief.

For further information please contact Parish Office: 846 1561

PARISH COUNSELLING SERVICEin the Parish Centre. Payment negotiated.By appt only. Ph: Mary Ryan 087 270 9767

PREPARATION FOR THE SACRAMENTS2019 – ST. ANNE’S PARISH

FIRST EUCHARIST 2019DATES FOR FIRST EUCHARIST

St. Helen’s Saturday 11 May at 11.30 amSt. Marnock’s 18 May at 11.30 am

”Do This in Memory of Me“MASSES IN PREPARATION

All in St. Anne’s Church Sundays 10.30 am

10 March 2019 First Sunday Lent14 April 2019 Palm Sunday

5 May 2019 Third Sunday of Easter23 June 2019 Corpus Christi

CONFIRMATION 2019DATES FOR CONFIRMATION

St. Marnock’s Wednesday 3 April 2019 at 11.30 amSt. Helen's Friday 5 April 2019 11.30 am

MASSES IN PREPARATIONAll in St. Anne’s Church Sundays 10.30 am

3 February 2019 Fanning the Flame of Faith3 March 2019 Ritual of Blessing

Sacrament of Penance in St. Anne’s ChurchSt. Marnock’s Tuesday 12 February 2019 1-2pm

St. Helen’s Wednesday 13 February 2019 at 12.30 pm

are available in St. Anne’s Church at all Masses. You can approach the centre aisle

at Communion time and either the priest or the Eucharist Minister will have the gluten free hosts in a

special separate pyx.

If you can only receive from the chalice please approach the altar with the Ministers of the

Eucharistic

HARD OF HEARING?If you use a Hearing Aid you can avail of the “Loop” anywhere in St. Anne’s church.

All you need to do is adjust your Hearing Aid settings according to your manufacturer’s instructions.

ARE YOU HOUSEBOUND? Would you like to receive Holy Communion on a regular basis? Would you like a visit by the priest for the First Friday each month? This can be arranged by contacting the Parish Office at 8461561.

GROUP PILGRIMAGE 2019

WELCOME TO PORTMARNOCK PARISH

If you are new to Portmarnock, you might like to register and/or

make contact with St. Anne’s Parish.

Please use the Registration/enquiry form online at www.

portmarnockparish.ie and return it to the parish office - on

Strand Road, Portmarnock

B.E. is a support group for those coping with the pain of loss of their life partner, through

Death, Separation or Divorce. Seeking help is a sign of strength and self-knowledge – not weakness. This is a healing ministry, which helps to resolve the grief that goes with the end of a marriage or relationship. Next Coping Programme will commence on Wednesday 6th February for 7 Wednesday evenings at 7.15pm in White Friars Community Centre, Aungier St.

For further information phone 086 087 7379 or

email bedublin@gmail.com www.beginningexperience.ie

7 NIGHT PILGRIMAGE PACKAGE DEPARTING FROM DUBLIN

13-20 June 2019 - €695 per person sharingPrice includes: Return Day flights from Dublin. Full

Religious programme. 7 nights accommodation near to St. James’ Church with breakfast

and dinner included. Luxury coach transfers accompanied by local guide. Comprehensive

Travel Insurance up to 84 years of age. All airport and local taxes.

For more information on joining the group contact Derek & Anne Farrell 086 257 3824 or 087 922 4077

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Feast of Our Lady

of Lourdes

on Monday

11th February 2019

BLESSING OF THE SICKfor all who need it

will take place

after 10.00 am Mass

in St. Annes Church, on

Monday 11th February

LOURDESParish Pilgrimage 2019

6 NightsFriday 19th July toThursday 25th July

Hotel: Saint Sauveur (beside Grotto)

Theme“Blessed are the Poor for the

Kingdom of God is theirs”

Price €789 (sharing) Single Extra €180

Details from:Pauline Geoghegan 087 629 3744

A WORD FROM FR. JIMMY

GUIDELINES FOR

CARS ON THE

ROAD

If you would like to be part of the Baptismal Ministry it would be appreciated if you could leave your name and contact number in the Parish Office.The Sacrament of Baptism is the introduction of an individual to the Christian Faith. It would be greatly appreciated if we had more parishioners participating in this special Ministry. If you require further information/details, kindly contact Margaret at 087 127 0417.

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Insomnia – Sleep not Coffee! “I love sleep. My life has the tendency to fall apart when I’m awake, you know?”

Ernest Hemingway

By the end of this month, we’ll begin to see a stretch in the evenings and before we know it late summer sunsets will be upon us once again. This brings a renewed energy and optimism of what we might achieve with our days. For many Irish people however, dark winter nights or bright summer mornings have no impact on their energy levels as they battle the common condition of insomnia.

What is insomnia?Most of us have woken up at 4am at one time or another and struggled to get back to sleep. But for about 15pc of Irish people, insomnia is adversely affecting their ability to function daily and their long-term health. Insomina means poor sleep or is more strictly defined as sleeplessness that occurs at least three nights a week for at least three months. Different people need different amounts of sleep. Some people function well and are not tired during the day with just 3-4 hours sleep a night. Most people need more than this. To need 6-9 hours per night is average. Most people establish a pattern that is normal for them in their early adult life. However, as you become older, it is normal to sleep less. For most people it takes less than thirty minutes to fall asleep.

Causes of insomniaThere are many causes of insomnia – includingConcern about wakefulness – worrying about waking up, getting back to sleep, clock-watch and checking the time each time you wake up. This may make you irritated or anxious and further impair sleep.Temporary problems such as stress, a work or family problem, jet lag, a change of routine, a new baby etc. Stress, anxiety or depression – a common cause of poor sleep and indeed being ‘tired all the time’ is a frequent initial presentation of depression Sleep apnoea – sometimes occurs in people who snore, most commonly in overweight/obese people.Other illnesses keeping people awake - including illness causing pain, leg cramps, breathlessness, indigestion, cough, itch, hot flushes, mental health problems, etc.Stimulants such as alcohol (which rather than helping actually causes broken sleep and early morning wakefulness), caffeine and nicotine.Prescribed medicines such as ‘water tablets’ (diuretics), some antidepressants, steroids, beta-blockers, painkillers containing caffeine, and some cold remedies containing pseudoephedrine. Also, if you suddenly stop taking regular sleeping tablets or other sedative medicines, this can cause rebound poor sleep.Screen time – mounting evidence confirms this negatively. It may be that certain types of light from e-readers and electronic tablets can disrupt control of our natural day-and-night cycle. Studies suggest we may sleep better after reading a printed book or a particular kind of screen before bedtime. A vicious cycle - whatever the initial cause, worry about poor sleep and feeling tired the next day are common reasons for the problem to become worse.

How can I sleep better?Avoid caffeine, smoking and alcohol, especially in the hours before bedtime, as well as heavy meals or strenuous exercise within 4 hours of bedtime. Ensure your bedroom is a quiet, relaxing place to sleep. Practice sleep hygiene - going to bed and getting up at the same time each day. No matter how tired you are, do not sleep or nap during the day.

If you cannot get off to sleep after 20-30 minutes - then get up. If you can, go into another room, and do something else such as reading or watching TV rather than brooding in bed. Go back to bed when sleepy.

What about sleeping tablets?Sleeping tablets are not usually advised. The main types of sleeping tablets are in a class of medicines called benzodiazepines and a class called Z drugs. In the past, sleeping tablets were commonly prescribed. However, they have been shown to have problems such as confusion during the night leading to an increased incidence of hip fractures, daytime drowsiness, tolerance and addiction as well as a higher risk of dementia in the long term.

lauoflynn@rcsi.ie.

Dr. Laura

Kids CornerMajor new research from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health in the UK has revealed that looking at screens such as phones, tablets or computers in the hour

before bed can disrupt sleep and impact children’s health and wellbeing. Recommending time-limits and a curfew, they also noted that parents need not worry that using the devices is harmful in itself and can in fact be a valuable tool for children to explore the world. Nevertheless, screen time should not replace healthy activities such as exercising, sleeping and spending time with family.

Up to four people have died following a new suspected outbreak of the H1N1 flu strain also known as the Swine flu, according to the HSE. Numbers

are expected to rise significantly this month. Recent indications are that the HSE flu scale has reached over half way to surpassing the flu season threshold sparking fears that flu season, where hundreds become sick with the virus, is only days out. The flu seasons last anywhere from six to 12 weeks. Last year it was exceptionally long at 17 weeks. The HSE website undertheweather.ie has a list of tips and advice for anyone who wants to prepare or prevent themselves from catching the flu.

Did You Know?A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures for anything (Irish proverb)!!

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The Peace Candle The Scouting MovementRobert Baden-Powell, founded the Boys Scouts in 1907. His sister, Agnes Baden-Powell founded the Girl Guides in 1910. After witnessing the inhumanity of World War I, Lord Powell assigned a new mission to Scouting: to strive for and maintain peace in the world. His vision was that, through world Scouting, humankind would eventually achieve world peace. Providing our youth with opportunities to practice and internalize Scouting’s values, we are making that vision come true one Scout at a time.

History of the Peace LightFor several decades the International Scouting movement - both Boy Scouts and Girl Guides - has actively promoted global peace and harmony through the distribution of the Peace Light. Now in its 27th year, the Peace Light from Bethlehem Campaign, was originally organized by the Austrian Broadcasting Company (ORF) and was part of a large charitable relief mission called “Light into Darkness” for children in need in Austria and abroad. Since 1986 there has been a great deal of cooperation between Scouts and Guides from many countries, which has allowed the light to travel throughout Europe. Each year the light is passed on to over 30 European countries and, for the past decade, to the United States. In 2007 a delegation of Guides and Scouts from Austria, Germany, Israel, Jordan and the Palestinian National Authority, together, lit the Peace Light in Bethlehem.

The ProgrammeIn Palestine, an eternal flame burns in the Grotto of the Church of the Nativity in the little town of Bethlehem; this is the place where Mary and Joseph went 2,000 years ago and where the baby Jesus was born. It has been burning continuously for over 1,000 years. In December, each year, a candle is lit from the oil lamp in the Grotto in in the Church of the Nativity. An Israeli Scout, and a Palestinian Scout, take this light together and bring it to Tel Aviv airport, from where an Austrian scout takes it to Vienna. This child from Upper Austria, is named the year’s Peace Light Child and travels to Tel Aviv to receive the light. It is then flown to Austria where it is distributed at a Service of Dedication to delegations of Scouts from across Europe, who in turn take it back to their own countries, with a message of peace. The Peace Light is a continuously-burning flame, originating from this eternal flame in the Grotto which is then shared with individuals, families, houses of worship, hospitals, nursing homes, prisons, and cultural centres – with anybody who can appreciate the significance of this “gift.” It is meant to promote peace, harmony and unity among the people of the world regardless of race, ethnicity or religion. Fr. Jimmy, our new priest, spent some time last year in Israel and Palestine. He explained at Mass recently, that it is illegal for a Jewish person to enter Bethlehem. So the Israeli Scout had to break the law to join the Palestine Scout. Many churches share the Peace Light during ecumenical services. They use the flame to light the candles on their Advent wreaths, pass the flame from person to person during candlelight Christmas Eve services, present the flame to the community at parish tree lighting events, and deliver the flame to shut-ins and those experiencing loss, illness and hardships. Many churches also maintain the Peace Light year-round, using the flame to ignite baptismal candles and votive lamps. Individuals and families have shared the Peace Light flame with neighbours, relatives and friends both near and far, challenging each recipient to become a channel of peace through his/her words and actions. The Peace Light comes to St Anne’s Church, PortmarnockThe Light is here with us in St. Anne’s Church. It was escorted into the Church by Girl Guides and Scouts (see picture) at the 10.30 Family Mass on December 23rd.

Anne-Marie Holden District Commissioner, Portmarnock Girl Guides

St. Anne’s Parish, Portmarnock, Mission StatementTo create a parish in Portmarnock where people treat each other with love and compassion and work together to build up a dynamic Christian community characterised by faith, mission, worship and services

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COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD

SPRING TERM at Portmarnock Community School ADULT EDUCATION:

Classes are up and running but it is not too late to join a class.

Check out the Adult Education section of www.portmarnockcommunityschool.ie or call 01 803 8069 for more information.

CONTACT DETAILSSociety of St. Vincent de Paul

91-92 Sean McDermott Street, Dublin 1.Tel. 855 0022; email: info@svp.ie

Founded 1953

Now Open to New Members for 2019If you are new to the Parish or indeed a resident of long standing, you might be interested in joining our Club this year. With over 300 members, you can be guaranteed a very warm welcome with an opportunity to meet and play with existing members of different standards. And don’t worry if you have never hit a golf ball before, as we will allocate a handicap to you that measures up to your ability. And all you need is a Wedge and a Putter. Portmarnock Pitch & Putt Club is the only true Links style course in Dublin. This means that you can play all year round on the best Greens in the Country.

Annual Fees:Ladies/Gents - €125 Over 65s - €90

3rd Level/Apprentice - €90 Juveniles - €30

So please drop down to our Clubhouse any Saturday from 1 – 2 or Sunday 11 – 12 and check it out. We are located

at the top of the Lane behind St. Anne’s Church.or email portmarnockpitchandputtclub@gmail.com

for further details.

We look forward to meeting you soon

Please note in your diary

Annual Portmarnock Lions Club

Golf Classic

Friday 23rd August 2019 at

PORTMARNOCK HOTEL & GOLF LINKS

Details to follow………..Thank you for your support

PORTMARNOCK LIONS CLUB

TABLE-QUIZ FORSOUTHERN CROSS DAY, 2019

To fund raise for this year’s Southern Cross Day (June 16th) a table quiz will be held in the

PSLC on Thursday 28th February,at 8.00pm.

Prizes galore and entertainment.Table of four, €40.Sharpen your wits, enjoy a great night out,

help us continue

PORTMARNOCK’S POPULAR SUMMER FESTIVAL DAY!

Portmarnock/Malahide Branch 63

Irish Guide Dogs would like to thank the people of Portmarnock and Malahide for their kind

contributions to Irish Guide Dog collections in 2018. A total of €6,599 was donated by the Portmarnock and Malahide community in 2018.The December 2018 Car raffle was won by Tom Sweeney from Waterford. The result was posted on the Irish Guide Dog website on the day of the draw. Please see link: https://guidedogs.ie/news/

The Portmarnock Malahide branch would welcome new members. Anyone who would want to participate and help Irish Guide Dogs in 2019 should contact Frank Kelly on 086 836 1456 or

email frankkelly@newvent.com.

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PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP

in Teallach Áine in the Parish

Centre

The Group meets every Tuesday morning from 10.30 am to 12.00 noon (except when schools closed)

WEDNESDAYS AFTER 10.00 MASS IN THE PARISH CENTRE

Enjoy fresh scones and tea/coffee €2 All welcome

Do you know what you’re entitled to?Employment, Health Services, Social

Welfare, Tax or Housing.Answers for all of life’s questions. Phone 076 107 7480.

(Malahide CIC, 2nd Floor Malahide Library Ph 845 0627)Legal Session last Saturday of every month 10.30 am—12.30 pm

CitizensInformation

THE CRAFT CIRCLE meets 3rd Saturday everymonth in the Parish Centre from 10.00 am until1.00pm. Work night— first Thursday of eachmonth, 7.30pm - 9.30pm also in Parish Centre.You would be very welcome to come along andshare your craft. For further information contactPauline at 087 629 3744.

The Portmarnock Lions Club wishes to thank those who contributed to our

bag-packing fundraiser in Dunnes Stores leading up to Christmas.

We would also like to thank the Transition Year Students and Teachers from the Community School and the girls from

Naomh Mearnóg, who did trojan work packing the bags.We raised in excess of €5,000, which has already been distributed in the form of food vouchers etc. to the needy causes in our local area.

Keep an eye out for details of our future fundraising events.

John Lonergan, (2nd from R) President of The Portmarnock Lions Club presenting a cheque for €500 to Colin and Patricia Mackenzie and Ann Burke from The Irish Kidney Association for the recent Charity

Day in aid of IKA. The Charity Day was a big success and raised a total of €6,100. I would like to thank everybody who helped with the day.

Ann Burke

COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD

Welcome back to all our members and every good wish for 2019. Our planned activities for the coming weeks are as follows:

February 6th Keep Fit and card making February 13th Theatre outing (hopefully) February 20th The life and times of Patrick Kavanagh February 27th Business Meeting March 6th Gardening March 13th Irish Night/Céilí

DK PORTMARNOCK CHESS CLUBWith the club continuing to take part in the Leinster Chess Union League, we are also looking for new adult members, all grades and can offer a special low rate of subscription to those who wish to play a friendly/social game. Junior players (from 6 years up) meet at 7.30 pm every Wednesday in Naomh Mearnóg G.A.A. Blackwood Lane.Adults meet at 8.30 pm on Thursdays.

Contact Ken 086 337 3582

St Anne’s Conference (SVP) wishes to thank all contributors for your continuing generosity and support.

Our Christmas (2018) Special Collection totalled €31,001. While most of this came from the church collections at Masses on Dec. 8th/9th, a significant proportion was separately received from schools, organisations, and individuals. Your donations, large and small, are greatly appreciated and enable us to assist many needy households.

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PORTMARNOCK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION - PCA NEWSWeather It has been a really mild late December and early January 2019. It has also been one of the driest winter months that I can remember. Rainfall in the past month came to only 39.1mm (just over 1.5 inches). There were 15 days where there was no rainfall. You may have noticed that some people were cutting the grass in their gardens immediately after Christmas. The reason the grass was growing was that the average maximum temperature for the period was 9.60C which is well over the normal. You might complain at my next statement. We need more rain to fill our reservoirs so that we dodge a drought and water restrictions in summer 2019.

Tidy Towns 2019We had to wait until mid-December to plant up all the containers in the village with Primulas and Cyclamen. Luckily we had a relatively dry day but it was very windy when the boxes down at the bridge were being filled with the new plants for the Winter and Spring of 2019. There was an excellent turnout of 12 volunteers (pictured above) who worked diligently to complete the work by lunchtime. Hope you enjoy the colour over the next three months. It is unbelievable to think, but I had to water some of the boxes in mid-January as the compost was drying out!We are developing a Tidy Towns Plan for the years 2019 – 2022 at present. This will require input from every estate as well as a large number of individuals and many businesses. If you have any ideas please forward them to me so that they can be included.

Airport IssuesThe past couple of months have been very busy for us on the Dublin Airport front. The Government has introduced a bill in the Dáil called the Aircraft Noise (Dublin Airport) Regulation Bill 2019. The objective of the Bill is to appoint a “competent authority” to establish rules and procedures with regard to the introduction of noise-related operating restrictions at Dublin Airport. We have canvassed the TDs in the constituency on this issue and have met with party spokespersons on Transport. The Minister for Transport Shane Ross has proposed appointing Fingal County Council as the competent authority. We feel this is not appropriate as Fingal County Council failed to protect communities around Dublin Airport when they granted planning permission for the second runway at Dublin Airport. It was only through the

good offices of An Bord Pleanála that any effective noise restrictions are in place when the second runway begins operations.I said above that the proposal was to appoint Fingal County Council but that is not really true in the strict sense of the word as the Bill states that the development of the rules and procedures will be a function of the Chief Executive of Fingal County Council. It further states that Councillors “shall not influence or seek to influence” the Chief Executive in the performance of his or her function. It even states that a Councillor “shall not influence or seek to influence an employee of FCC in the assistance that he or she provides to the Chief Executive” in the performance of his or her function as the competent authority. Fingal County Council provides excellent services to our community. We feel this is a retrograde step and one that will compromise the work of the Council into the future. Portmarnock Community Association has proposed an alternative organisation as competent authority. We have proposed amendments to the Bill which were well received by all the opposition parties. As a result, all opposition parties have proposed amendments and were very critical of the bill as published. Even the Minister himself has proposed amendments to the bill. We will see how the situation develops in relation to this issue.

Annual General Meeting of Portmarnock Community AssociationThe AGM was held in St. Anne’s Parish Centre on the 29th November. The turnout was small which was disappointing despite the fact that we had banners placed at both ends of the village. A new committee was elected but there was no candidate for the post of chairperson. I have served three years in the post and was obliged to step down. I am acting in a temporary capacity for the present but would be grateful if other residents in Portmarnock would be willing to serve as chairperson and as members of the committee.

Cycleways Portmarnock The Baldoyle to Portmarnock section of the Cycleway/Footpath will be going to tender shortly. It is planned that the works will be completed in 2019. The plan for the next section through Portmarnock is currently being developed. Landowners on all the alternative routes will be contacted as soon as the routes have been finalised and a presentation will be made to Councillors. This will be followed by a public consultation and display.

Slí na SláinteThe signage for the walking route from Portmarnock to Malahide has fallen into disrepair. We have been in discussions with the Council with a view to getting the signs repaired or replaced.

(Pat Suttle 087 248 6287).

Contacting the PCA: If you wish to contact the PCA on any issues in our community or volunteer for any of our committees why not call us 087 248 6287 (leave a message) or email portmarnock1@gmail.com. You can visit our website/Facebook at www.portmarnock.org

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What makes a good marriage?ACCORD, the marriage and family organisation, which provides Marriage Preparation Courses and Marriage and Relationship Counselling, suggests Communications is the vital ingredient. On its Marriage Preparation Courses the topics covered are Self Awareness, Communication, Commitment, Conflict Resolution, Sexuality, Fertility, Parenting and the Sacrament of Marriage. This would suggest there are other areas which are important but good communications is key to all of these areas.

Accord commissioned research from the couples who had availed of their counselling services. The biggest cause of stress, anxiety and conflict was:

• NOT LISTENING - 58%. This was mainly ignoring a partner. More communication devices results in less communication. Some people become addicted to Social Media. They feel they are missing out if they are not looking at Facebook etc.

• Phone use/texting rose to 21% as a highly relevant cause of problems in relationships.

• Financial problems as a reason for attending counselling doubled from 2007 to a peak of 42% in 2012. It has since fallen back to around 30%.

• 17% presented with alcohol as an issue causing conflict.

• Couples more likely to split over social media than infidelity. This was really surprising but it wasn’t explained in this short research project.

Advice from Pope Francis

The weekly Mass Leaflet for December 16th had an article from Pope Francis on the Home and relationships between husbands and wives. My cynical streak briefly sprang to mind. What would the Holy Father know about the interaction between couples, with all due respect to his Holiness? A quip from a very entertaining Priest, talking to couples on an Accord Course about the Wedding Ceremony, sprang to mind. He said the most popular reading was from from St. Paul. ‘Love is patient and kind’ etc. but added, ‘Of course St. Paul never married’. This amused the couples who would be stressed about the ceremony and everything going well and being on time.

However, I was really impressed by Pope Francis’ article. He started by quoting the Gospel of the day with St. John the Baptist preaching to a group, telling them ‘if you have 2 tunics, give one to a poor person’. Telling tax collectors and soldiers to be fair and not to abuse their powers, ‘no intimidation, no exhortation, be content with your pay’.

The Pope quoted St. Luke’s gospel, ‘Be compassionate as your heavenly Father is compassionate’. Compassion is defined as having pity and concern for the suffering of others. We need to have compassion for those around us as well as those suffering in our Nation and around the World.

I want to focus on the home. The Mom is the centre of the home, the heart of the family. Husbands need to remember to have compassion for their wives in this busy world. Women with children, particularly young children, live with the constant pressure of caring and worrying about their children. They want everything to be wonderful in the home but feel this falls mainly on their shoulders. As Christmas approaches they feel overwhelmed with all the work needed to create a special time for the family. They spend so much time trying to please others that they often run out of gas.

Sometimes their husbands don’t make an effort to understand them. Well men never fully understand women and vice versa but guys, you need to recognise the source of your wife’s stress and support her, even if this means nothing more than a sign of affection and appreciation when she least expects it. Certainly, compassion demands a husband should understand and be aware, when his wife is not in good form. You should support, care for, and pray for your wife.

Husbands also need compassion. They try to support their family, often with a job they would rather not be doing. Many men are not as sensitive as women and they sometimes misunderstand their wives and children. When they realise this, they may feel they can’t do anything right or feel like a burden in their own homes. A wife should tell her husband she knows he is doing his best to be a good father and husband and pray for him.

Parents are well aware of the pressures on children from school, society and even members of their extended family. Parents should guide them in a kind and loving way while remaining firm on the direction they need to go. Compassion in all the above relationships is essential.

When the Lord taught us how to pray he said ‘forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us’.

We need to apply forgiveness to our family life. We all have battle stories. All of us have been wronged, even by our own families. We all need forgiveness but we cannot receive forgiveness unless we are prepared to give forgiveness.

The message from the Pope’s article is compassion, forgiveness and can I add gratitude (from Dr. Laura O’Flynn’s excellent article in last month’s Progress) must be part of your philosophy attitude or value system. You need to have these before you start communicating with any person.

John Hughes, ACCORD Volunteer

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PHONE NOEL O’NEILL AT846 1922/087 256 0349

DigiSafe

ALLIED SERVICESPlumbing and Heating

showers, radiators.Apartments: Stuard Turner

Booster Pumps supplied and fitted

CHARLES O’ROURKEPhone 846 3023/086 827 7094

PORTMARNOCKDENTAL SURGERY

DR. ULTAN McGUCKIN

1 THE DUNES, PORTMARNOCK

PHONE 846 0055Late Evening Appointments

Emergency Service

ADVERTISING IN PROGRESS Closing date 8th each month

We cannot verify the quality or workmanship of any advertiser herein and consequently we cannot be held responsible for anywork done or services provided which are completely independent of Progress

SIMON ARCHERPHOTOGRAPHYP O R T M A R N O C K

- WEDDINGS- FAMILY PORTRAITS- PRE-SCHOOLS/ SCHOOLS- LOCAL PHOTOS

087 2057247info@sarcherphotography.comwww.simonarcher.ie

HAYDENPAINTING LTD.

FOR ALL YOUR DECORATING NEEDSINTERIOR AND EXTERIOR

ATTIC AND WALL INSULATIONGUARANTEED QUALITY WORK

FREE QUOTATIONPhone JOE HAYDEN

846 1240 OR 087 260 9597STRAND ROAD, PORTMARNOCK

THE KEYMANLOCKSMITHS

YOUR LOCK PROBLEMSSOLVED, LOCKS FITTED, OPENED

AND REPAIRED

Contact DAVIDOUR LOCAL LOCKSMITH

846 3602 / 087 2421653

Box Ads per issue: 1 box €402 boxes €70, 4 boxes €130

twinoaktreecare@hotmail.com

STEAMED UPDOUBLE GLAZING?

We repair it or replace it

Defog WindowsDublin

Tel 01 816 9588Mob 087 741 5281/087 256 8866

www.defogwindowsdublin.ie

The Velvet TouchHair & Beauty Salon

Unit 2 Strand RoadPhone 846 2018

Open Tues to Fri 9-6Thurs 8pm; Sat 9-5.30

Students and Senior Citizens20% discount Tues-Wed

OPEN ‘TIL 8PM ON FRIDAYS

Phone: 618 3421Email: brendan.ryan@oir.ie

@BrendanRyanTD

Martin HubbleM: 087 684 5046

E: martin@martinsgardening.ieW: www.martinsgardening.ie

2 Drumnigh Wood, PortmarnockCut lawns, hedges, collect leaves,power wash paths, fence painting,

general garden tidy up, clean out garages.

ThermographyClinic Ireland

Stafford House, Strand Road,Portmarnock, Co. Dublin

Ph 01 846 2095 086 162 3683

www.thermographyclinicireland.comThermography is a non-invasive

radiation-free monitoring of Breast HealthEarly detection is importantbut prevention is the key!

CUTS NCOLOURS

Senior rates Tues, WedLate night Thursdays

846 1550JAMESON PRINT

High Quality PrintingBusiness cards

MagazinesBrochures

LetterheadsWedding Stationery

Tickets and Party bannersMemorial and Acknowledgment cards

Contact Chris086 243 7275

BLESSINGDENTAL SURGERY

9 Village Court, Portmarnock(Beside Post Office)

Dr. Margaret BlessingEarly morning and late evening

appointmentsEmergency ServiceTelephone: 816 9474

www.blessingdental.com

blessingdentalsurgery@gmail.com

progress 11

ADVERTISING IN PROGRESS Closing date 8th each month

We cannot verify the quality or workmanship of any advertiser herein and consequently we cannot be held responsible for anywork done or services provided which are completely independent of Progress

Box Ads per issue: 1 box €402 boxes €70, 4 boxes €130

CUTS NCOLOURSSenior rates Tues, WedLate nights Thursday

and Friday

Phone 846 1550

PORTMARNOCKFURNISHINGS

Re-upholstery ServiceNew sofas and chairs, headboards

Curtains and blindsDesigner wallpapers

Free callouts, free quotationsTel: 846 0869

Established 30 yearsSupport Local Business

The Velvet TouchHair & Beauty Salon

Unit 2 Strand RoadPhone 846 2018

Open Tues to Fri 9-6Thurs 8pm; Sat 9-5.30

Students and Senior Citizens20% discount Tues-WedSamantha has returned

to work in the salon

JORDAN TV& ELECTRICAL

085 754 2852SAVE over €1000 per year on yourTV bills and switch to Free to AirOnce-off payment of €269 forhundreds of channels, movies,

sports and moreAll TV service calls catered for

STAFFORDSFUNERAL DIRECTORS

STRAND ROAD,

PORTMARNOCK

7 DAY 24 HOUR SERVICE

PHONE: 846 2620

LocalLabour

Councillor

BRIAN MCDONAGHFor local issues contact

Mobile 086 385 8979Email: brianmcdonaghlabour@gmail.com

7 Castle Terrace, Malahide

DENTURESNew, Repaired, Relined and

Teeth added on site.Treatment carried out by

Hugh Ennis CDT

Senior rates Tues, Wed

Late night Thursdays

846 1550

1 the Dunes, Portmarnock8 4 6 1 3 3 5

Open 8.00am – 6.00pmDr. Martin O’FlynnDr. Laura O’Flynn

Dr. Niall Breen

www.portmarnockgpclinic.ieEarly Pregnancy Scanning

S M A L L A D S S m a l l Ad s 5 0 c p e r w o r d

C l o s i n g d a t e 8 t h e a c h m o n t h

We cannot verify the quality or workmanship of any advertiser herein and consequently we cannot be held responsible for any

JEFFREY BREEN PAINTING AND DECORATING CONTRACTOR INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR. 15 PORTMARNOCK WALK, PHONE 846 3826 OR 087 969 6811.

HOME DIY SERVICES: ALAN GROGAN PAINTING AND DECORATING, GARDEN MAINTENANCE, LOW MAINTENANCE GARDEN DESIGN, WASTE REMOVAL, HOME REPAIRS. 086 406 4369/ 846 2420.

LOCAL DENTAL TECHNICIAN DENTURES MADE AND REPAIRED. CHROME COBALT, SPORTS GUM SHIELDS, NIGHT GUARDS, TEETH BLEACHING KITS. COLLECTION AND DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE. GLENN KEOGH, I.A.D.P. TELEPHONE 830 6818 / 086 834 7394.

HEAVEN SCENT (PORTMARNOCK FLORIST AND GARDEN SERVICES) PORTMARNOCK SHOPPING CENTRE, STRAND ROAD. FLOWERS FOR ALL OCCASIONS-PLANTS-GIFTS. TELEPHONE 803 8887.

PIANO LESSONS BEGINNERS WELCOME. PHONE MAUREEN AT 01-846 2315 OR 086 385 8155.

COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY AVAILABLE LOCALLY. AREAS OF SPECIALITY INCLUDE DEPRESSION, ADDICTION, HEALTH ISSUES AND SUICIDE IDEATION. CONTACT MARIE MULLIGAN (I.A.H.I.P. ACC) AT 087 979 9057.

CHIROPODY HOUSECALLS FOOT CARE IN YOUR OWN HOME. WE COME TO YOU. HSE APPROVED PRACTITIONERS. PORTMARNOCK AND SURROUNDING AREAS. PHONE OR TEXT 085 257 1794.

COUNSELLING PSYCHOTHERAPY, STRESS MANAGEMENT, BULLYING AND WORKPLACE CONFLICT. PHONE PAT (M.I.A.C.P.) AT 086 881 1417.

ROOM AVAILABLE TO RENT IN SPACIOUS HOME CLOSE TO PORTMARNOCK VILLAGE AND TRANSPORT LINKS. ALL BILLS INCLUDED. PHONE 086 344 8132

MIRIAM MURPHY M.I.A.C.P. ACCREDITED SUPERVISOR/COUNSELLOR, PORTMARNOCK. APPOINTMENTS 087 775 6870 OR EMAIL MIRIAM.MURPHY@HOTMAIL.COM.

12 progress

Congratulations to the families of the following children who

were baptised recently

BAPTISMS

Luke Micheál Ó Braonáin Robswall, MalahideBartholomew Patrick Dunlea SwordsJames Austin Fogarty The Drive, St. Marnock’s BayTheodore Matthew Foley TorcaillCara Brid Horgan Carrick CourtBenjamin Werner Kemper Portmarnock CrescentCharlie Nicholas Dillon Beach ParkElliott Arthur John Holland Stevenage, Herts, EnglandHarry Wells Clongriffin Isabella Dee Madden Halligan Waterside CrescentArianwen Fianna Power Swansea, WalesSeán Richard McKeon Kelvin CloseRobyn Lucy McDonagh The Rise, St. Marnock’s BayMia Maureen Breen Dorset, EnglandTheodor Alberto Aponte Symczuk The Coast, BaldoyleSadie Eva Farrell Carrickhill DriveEsmé Ellen Fogarty Portmarnock Crescent

PORTMARNOCK: St. Anne’s Church, Strand Road, Portmarnock. Parish Office - 846 1561. Fr. Jimmy McPartland, Co-PP, St. Anne’s Parochial House, Strand Road, Portmarnock. Phone 8461081. Fr. Conleth Meehan, Co-PP, contact through the Parish Office - 846 1561

MALAHIDE: St. Sylvester’s Church, Main Street, Malahide. Parish Office - 845 1244 Moderator: Fr. Kevin Moore, address as above. - 549 6615.

YELLOW WALLS: Church of the Sacred Heart, Estuary Road, Malahide. Parish Office 845 4783. Fr. Martin Noone, 7 Seabury Drive, Malahide - 845 1902.

KINSEALY: St. Nicholas of Myra, Kinsealy - 846 0028 Fr. Mattie O’Farrell, Co-PP “Aghadoe” Kinsaley Lane, Malahide - 846 1767.

St. Nicholas of Myra, Ki nsealySt. Anne ’s,Portm arnock

St. Sylvester’s,Malah ide

SacredHeart,YellowW alls

PARISH INFORMATIONSaint Anne’s Church & Parish Centre,

Strand Road, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin.

Phone 846 1561

email: stannes@portmarnockparish.ie

www.portmarnockparish.ie

Parish Office (in Parish Centre) Open 9.00 am to 5pm, Mon to Fri. Signed Mass cards (including Irish text) available, arrange baptisms, get baptism/confirmation certificates, Freedom to Marry forms, book rooms in Parish Centre etc.

Parish Secretaries Margaret Corcoran and Gabrielle Moore.

Anniversary Masses All weekend Masses are ‘shared’. Call or phone the Parish Office to book Masses.

Confessions Saturdays after 6.30 pm Mass.

Baptisms are held on the 1st Saturday at 12.00 noon and on 3rd Sunday at 1.30 pm. Preparation Meeting for parents and godparents held usually on last Wednesday of each month in Parish Centre. See more details on website or contact Parish Office.

Marriage please see website for important information on church and state requirements or contact Parish Office.

ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENTShalom Room—St. Anne’s Parish Centre, Portmarnock

DAYTIME

EVENING

OTHER DEVOTIONS

ADORATION TIMES AND OTHER DEVOTIONS

MON TO FRI 9.00 am-4.50 pm / SAT 10.00 am—1.00 pm(MON 3-4 pm—Divine Mercy Group)

MON 7-8 pm; Monday night Prayer Group 8-9.30 pmTUES 7-9.50 pm

WED 7-8 pm; John Main Meditation Group 8-9 pm (all welcome)THURS 7-8 pm;

8-9.15pm. Prayer Group A time and space put aside for God each week. Gospel Reading, Personal Sharing. (all welcome)

KINSEALY: Adoration Mon mornings after 10.00 am Mass to 1pm

Legion of MaryWeekly meetings are held on Wednesdays at 10.40am

New members welcome

FRIDAYS: First Fridays Healing Mass 10.00 am in KINSEALY

LAST FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH—St. Pio Devotions

7.00 pm in St. Anne’s Church (Mass commences at 7.30 pm)

750 CLUB RESULTS NOVEMBER 2018

1st Prize €1,000 Ticket No. 476, Hayley Robinson, ArdilaunSeller: Tess Robinson

2nd Prize €500 Ticket No. 431, Barbara O’Farrell, Woodlands3rd Prize €250 Ticket No. 41, Barbara O’Flynn, Woodlands

4th Prize €250 Ticket No. 533, Elizabeth Buckley, Strand Road

DECEMBER 2018 1st Prize €1,000 Ticket No. 738 Annie & Philip Egan, Redfern Avenue

Seller: Margaret Corcoran2nd Prize €500 Ticket No. 452, Vincent Sex, Church Avenue

3rd Prize €250 Ticket No. 713, Padraig Ó Muircheartaigh, Briar Walk4th Prize €250 Ticket No. 681, Maura Carroll, Wendell Avenue

EXTRA PRIZES FOR CHRISTMAS — €200 EACHTicket No. 677, Mary & Hugh McCabe, Portmarnock Walk

Ticket No325, Jacqueline Farrell, Limetree Avenue Ticket No. 65, Tony Germaine, Ardilaun

Ticket No. 553, Joan O’Regan, Carrickhill RoadTicket No. 744, Riona O’Reilly, Burrow Court

DIARY DATES

FEBWed 6 Beginning Experience Programme starts 2

Thurs 28 Table Quiz for Southern Cross Day 6

MAR Wed 6 Ash Wednesday

APR

Wed 3 Confirmations St. Marnock’s 2

Fri 5 Confirmations St. Helen’s 2

Sun 21 Easter Sunday

MAYSat 11 First Eucharist St. Helen’s School 2

Sat 18 First Eucharist St. Marnock’s School 2

JUNThurs 13 -20 Pilgrimage to Medjugorje 2

Sun 16 Southern Cross Day 6

JUL Fri 19 - 25 Pilgrimage to Lourdes 3

AUG Fri 23 Lions Club Golf Classic 6

TEAM MINISTRY OF MALAHIDE-KINSEALYYELLOW WALLS-PORTMARNOCK