Westport Parish

LOUGH DERG: One Day Retreat to Lough Derg Monday 5th May  2025.Leaving St. Mary’s Church, Westport at 5.30a.m./pick up in Castlebar at the Fire Station at 5.45.a.m.  booking, please contact the Presbytery on 098-28871. Jubilee Year Pilgrims of Hope Three Day Pilgrimage to Lough Derg Friday 30th May – Sunday 1st June 2025 , bus departing from St. Mary’s Church Westport, at 8. 00a.m. Ph. No. 087-7401391   LENTEN SCRIPTURE STUDY: Fr. Benny McHale will conduct a study of St. Luke’s New Testament writing on   2nd & 9th April @7.30p.m. – 9.30pm Prayer Centre Knock Shrine. Contact Nicola Mitchell 094-9388100   CHARITABLE TAX Exemption: Sincere thanks to everyone who generously supports St Mary’s Westport Parish. It is deeply appreciated. If you are a PAYE and self-assessed tax payer contributing in excess of €250 annually you might please consider helping us avail of a tax reclaim by filling out a  CHY Form.  Thanks again for your ongoing support of the parish. JUBILEE 2025 PILGRIM PASSPORT OFFICIAL LAUNCH ON WED.MARCH 26 TH AT 4P.M. IN MURRISK: Croagh Patrick, Lough Derg and Knock are three well-known Irish sanctuaries that have offered hope to pilgrims across the generations. With the Pilgrim Passport initiative, we invite you to make pilgrimage to all three shrines in the Jubilee Year 2025. When you have completed all of them you can receive a special commemorative, Jubilee Medal. For more details visit www.pilgrimpassport.ie     wwwcroaghpatrick.org                  www.knockshrine.ie      WESTPORT LIONS CLUB:  Warmly invites all senior citizens to join us for the March Senior Citizens Party, today at the Westport Order of Malta Hall @ 3:00 PM. CHRISM MASS IN TUAM 16TH APRIL:  Bus leaving from Mill Street Car Park at 4.00p.m. Contact Mary at 098-28033   MASS BOOK:  The Mass Book will be open for Jan, Feb & March 2026 on the 7th April 2025 at 10.00am   FÁLITE CUPPA : Our next Fáilte Cuppa is in Carrowbeg House today after 11.00a.m. Mass in St. Mary’s. HOUSE CALLS: Fr. John will do his calls during the week.   WESTPORT COMMUNITY GAMES :  Athletics event taking place at The Sports Park, Horkan's Hill at 10am Sunday 6th April from ages 4 to 15. Fun and games, €5 entry per child.  Parking at Scoil Phádraig. Email  [email protected]      WESTPORT AUTISM FRIENDLY TOWN: and Westport House are celebrating World Autism Month with a community walk on Sunday, April 6th at 12:00 PM.Meeting Point: Westport House Gates, Church StreetDate: Sunday, April 6thTime: 12:00 PM  Finish: Playground by Gracy's with tea & coffeeLet's walk together for understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.   COMHALTAS CEOLTOIRÍ ÉIREANN : Spring Concert at Westport Town Hall on Friday 4th April at 8pm. A celebration of Irish music, song and dance with emerging musicians from the local Westport Comhaltas branch.   MOTHER’S DAY PRAYER: Heavenly Father, we gather today to honour and celebrate the gift of mothers in our lives. We thank You for their love, sacrifices, and unwavering support. Bless all mothers with strength, joy, and peace. May they feel cherished and appreciated today and always. We also remember those who have lost their mothers or those who long to be mothers, and we ask for Your comfort and grace upon them. May Your love shine through our families as we reflect on the beauty and gift of motherhood. Amen   THE JUBILEE YEAR 2025 PILGRIM PASSPORT:  Has launched this week. It is designed to encourage people to undertake pilgrimages to three main holy shrines in Ireland. Croagh Patrick, Lough Derg, and Knock Shrine Pilgrims can obtain the passport locally and have it stamped at each of the three sites they visit. Those who complete the pilgrimage to all three locations can receive a special commemorative Jubilee Year Pilgrims Medal. This is a special way to participate in the Jubilee Year 2025 by making a pilgrimage to these important Irish spiritual locations. (The passport stamp for the Croagh Pilgrimage can be obtained at Westport Parish Office, Murrisk Community Café or the Hut at the Foot of the Reek in Murrisk Car Park.) Further details: www.croaghpatrick.org   www.loughderg.org.www.knockshrine.ie   www.pilgrimpassport.ie

FIRST FRIDAY MASS JUNE 6TH 10.00A.M Will include special prayer intentions in memory of children who have died before birth or shortly after. Followed by a visit to Our Lady’s Grotto at the Quay, Westport. You can use an envelope provided to avail of a miraculous Medal and a special prayer to our Lady. You can also return the envelope with the Name(s) of those whom you would like remembered in the Mass. This can be returned to the Church in the box provided at the Centre Aisle of St. Mary’s (No offerings Please)   DARE TO HOPE YOUNG ADULT FAITH GATHERING: Event for 18- to 30-year-olds, Speaker Fr. Conor McDonagh, Saturday, June 14th 2025 in Youth Village, Knock Shrine 9.30a.m. – 5.30pm. Info. Contact Emer at 087-7779879   EXAM MASS AT KNOCK SHRINE (JUNE 2ND 7.30P.M. Knock Basilica) -  All students preparing for exams—and their families—are warmly invited to attend a special  Exam Mass  at  Knock Shrine . Take a quiet moment out from your studies to ask for God's strength and guidance during this important time. Bring your pencil case to have it blessed.   MINI VIGIL KNOCK FRIDAY 6TH JUNE: The monthly mini vigil takes place at Knock Shrine on Friday, June 6th.Confessions are available from 8pm to 9pm.  The vigil begins in the Parish Church at 9pm and concludes at midnight. See www.knockshrine.ie for more information or call 094 93 88100. Bus leaving the Quay (Centra) Westport at 7.00p.m. The Mall at 7.15pm. To reserve a seat please contact Margaret 098-27109. WESTPORT LIBRARY CELEBRATES 50 YEARS: With a brand-new library building in the works, and as the existing branch marks a special anniversary, Westport Library staff are compiling a social history of the library service in Westport as part the celebrations.  Everyone is invited to submit stories, memories and photos for the compilation of an exhibition which will be unveiled later in year as part of the events to mark the branch's birthday.   Original photos will be scanned and returned, and anyone with any information, stories or craic about the branch, or the library service in Westport, in general, is invited to submit them to the branch or to email to  [email protected]   NEW BOXES OF ENVELOPES : Thanks to all our distributors who helped to deliver our New Boxes of Envelopes. If anyone would like a box of envelopes, please call in to our Parish Office.   JUBILEE YEAR PILGRIMS OF HOPE 2025: Please visit the Display at the back of the Church in St . Mary’s to see details of this Year’s Pilgrim Passport collaboration between Croagh Patrick, Lough Derg & Knock Shrine. You can also see details of the work done on the path on the Reek as well as other information about the Croagh Patrick Pilgrimage.   ANAM CARA SUPPORTING PARENTS AFTER BEREAVEMENT : 4th June at The Clayton Hotel, Monivea Road, Galway H91D536   PRAYER SERVICE FOR JUNIOR CERT & LEAVING CERT STUDENTS: At St. Mary’s Church on Tuesday 3rd June at 8.00pm   CHARITABLE TAX EXEMPTION: Sincere thanks to everyone who have returned the CHY   form, a gentle reminder to anyone that has not returned   the form you might please consider helping us avail of a tax reclaim by returning the signed form .   TUAM ARCHDIOCESE 33HR ADORATION: Knock Shrine (Blessed Sacrament Chapel) commencing with Mass at 9.00a.m. Friday 6th June (Parish Church) with Benediction. Westport, Lecanvey & Drummin hour of adoration 4.00pm Sat. 7th June and Mass at 5.15p.m. A bus will leave from the Car Park, Mill St @ 2.30p.m. on the 7th June. Please contact Mary at 087-1363141 before the 5th June. Thank you.   BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE: In the Castlecourt Hotel, Westport on 3rd, 4th & 5th June. Blood needed urgently. Please support.   PRAYER BEFORE EXAMS: Loving God, be with me now as I prepare for my exams. Thank you for the many talents & gifts you have given me and for the opportunity of education. Calm my nerves & anxiety, help me to remember all that I have studied, to express it clearly and to answer the questions to the very best that I can. Holy Spirit, sit with me in my exam – and always. Amen   DAY OF PRAYER AND FASTING: Our Bishops call for prayer and fasting. "We in Ireland must pray for a change of heart…. To see the relentless bombardment of civilian areas, the deliberate withholding of food from the starving, as well as the callous holding of hostages, it appears that humanity has lost its heart.  In the face of these horrors, we invite everyone to turn to the heart of Jesus throughout the month of June by praying for the renewal of heart that our world so desperately needs.  We call on all Catholics to make the first Friday, 6 June, a day of prayer and fasting in solidarity with our sisters and brothers who are suffering at this time in the Holy Land "   WETPORT SOCIAL SERVICES : AGM Wed. 25th June at 7.00p.m. Quay Community Centre.   MONTHLY CALLS: Fr. John will do his usual Monthly calls during the week .   THE SACRED HEART NOVENA: Prayer Card is available at the back of the Church June 19th – 27th   WE REMEMBER ALL WHO HAVE DIED RECENTLY: Paul Murphy, Carnalurgan Lily Moody, Sligo, mother of Paul Moody, Mill St. Paul Durcan, Ringsend, Dublin & Achill Thomas McNally, Attyreece & Boston Sarah O Connor-Staunton, Gublin & High St. Bridie Hastings, Westlands Mary Treacy, Pearse Terrace, Killawala & Newport Padraig Reynolds, Westport & formerly London

Brackloon National School 10th May 2025 Scoil Phadraig National School 10th May 2025 St. Colmcille's National School 17th May 2025 Gaelscoil na Cruaiche 17th May 2025

JUBILEE YEAR PILGRIMS OF HOPE Three Day Pilgrimage to Lough Derg Friday 30th May – Sunday 1st June 2025, bus departing from St. Mary’s Church Westport, at 8. 00a.m. Ph. No. 087-7401391   MAYO CANCER SUPPORT (ROCK ROSE HOUSE) CHURCH GATE COLLECTION: Will be holding their annual church gate collection in the area, on the weekend of May 10th & 11th We would appreciate your continued support for this local charity, that offers free emotional support to all affected by cancer and their families,  www.mayocancersupport.ie     If anyone can volunteer to assist with the collections, please contact Rose 083 489 0754   PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS SUNDAY: Heavenly Father, guide young hearts to your call. Bless those discerning their vocation, whether to priesthood, religious life, or lay missionary service. Inspire us to support and pray for all, that they may follow your divine plan with faith, hope, and love. May your will be done in all our lives. Amen.   DEFECTIVE CONCRETE BLOCK (DCB) SUPPORT GROUP:  Homeowner led initiative, wishes to create emotional support for  Widowed / Divorced / Separated / Single  property owners in Mayo affected by Pyrite / DCB, navigating this process alone. This will be an independent and confidential support group.    All expressions of interest welcome, please contact Anne on: 089 2666389.   NEED TO ADVERTISE YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT FOR FREE: Send a jpeg poster and a short piece of text to  [email protected]  Mayo PPN will share it with our 1,200 plus Community Groups www.mayoppn.ie   BEREAVEMENT COURSE : There will be a 4-week Bereavement Programme, aimed at helping those who are struggling after the death of a loved one, taking place in St John’s Rest & Care Centre, Knock Shrine starting on Thursday 8th May - 29th   It will run over  4 Thursday nights , from 8-9.30pm. Contact Monica Morley on 094-9375320.     DARE TO HOPE YOUNG ADULT FAITH GATHERING: Event for 18- to 30-year-olds, Speaker Fr. Conor McDonagh, Saturday, June 14th 2025 in Youth Village, Knock Shrine 9.30a.m. – 5.30pm. Info. Contact Emer at 087-7779879   MEMOIR WRITING AT WESTPORT LIBRARY :  17th May 12-2pm The workshop will be given by Local author Nicola Lavelle. To book Ph.098-25747   FIRST COMMUNION CLASSES: Congratulations to all the 2nd class girls and boys to their parents/guardians and teachers who are celebrating First Holy Communion during May. Please keep them all in your prayer intentions.   A PRAYER FOR FIRST HOLY COMMUNION CHILDREN: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of this special celebration, when these children receive Jesus in Holy Communion. Bless them with your love, grace, and peace. Fill their hearts with joy and gratitude. May they always feel close to Jesus, who loves them so completely and unconditionally.  Help them to grow in faith, hope and love. Guide them to live as true disciples of your son. Bless their families, teachers, and all who support them, so that they may nurture their faith and encourage their spiritual journey. May their First Holy Communion be the start of a lifelong friendship with Jesus.  May they always cherish his   presence in their lives.  We make this prayer through Christ our Lord, Amen.   WESTPORT ECO CONGREGATION-GROW YOUR OWN HERBS:   Westport Eco Congregation invite you to our final Tuesday Climate Chat before we take a break for the summer.  Next Tuesday 13th May at 10-.45 – 12.15 in Carrowbeg House Chris Smith will give you tips and advice on growing your own Herbs.  Come and enjoy a chat with Chris over a cup of tea and he answer your questions and give advice as to what you need to do to have your own supply of herbs in your garden or window sill!  Free admission.   JUBILEE YEAR PILGRIMS OF HOPE 2025.PILGRIM PASSPORT:                                                                                                                                             This joint Pilgrim Passport collaboration between Croagh Patrick, Lough Derg and Knock Shrine is proving to be very popular for Pilgrims around Ireland and overseas. Last weekend on Saturday morning Fr Richard Gibbons PP & Rector of Knock Shrine lead a group of Pilgrims from Knock Shrine on Pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick. On last Sunday, Fr John Kenny Adm. Westport, with many others joined in the Annual Tuam Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock. On the May Bank holiday Monday Fr John led a group of fifty Pilgrims from around Westport who took part in the One-day Retreat on Lough Derg. On last Tuesday Fr La Flynn PP & Prior of Lough Derg led a group of his Lough Derg Island Staff on Pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick. They were the first of our group to officially receive their commemorative Jubilee lapel pins! You can pick up a Pilgrim Passport at your local Church or download it from www.pilgrimpassport   You can get your Croagh Patrick Pilgrim Passport Stamp at the Presbytery Westport, The Murrisk Community Café or The Hut at the Foot. Put you best foot forward. WE REMEMBER ALL WHO HAVE DIED RECENTLY: Christopher Gavin, Ashwood Glade. Geraldine Forrestal, Deerpark East. Mary Gannon, London & formerly Knockboy, Kilmeena, sister of Maureen Cremins, Ballinrobe Road. Charles O Malley, Clare Island Geraldine Forrestal, Deerpart East Fr. Tommy Lyons, Ballybourke, Ayle, Aughagower. Mary Grady (nee Walsh) Letterbrock, Drummin & late of Lanmore, Aughagower. Mary Coffey (nee McKeown) Ottawa, Canada & late of Monument Hill, Sister of the late D.F. McKeown, St. Mary’s Crescent. Sandi Rogers (nee Barnes) ‘Lickfinn’Cullen, Kilsallagh & late of Hartgrove, Dorset. Patrick Kilcoyne, Kilsallagh.

THE WESTPORT FORÓIGE CLUB: The club are fundraising for Relay for Life. Please support them on the South Mall this weekend. 3 lines for €5.00   DARE TO HOPE YOUNG ADULT FAITH GATHERING: Event for 18- to 30-year-olds, Speaker Fr. Conor McDonagh, Saturday, June 14th 2025 in Youth Village, Knock Shrine 9.30a.m. – 5.30pm. Info. Contact Emer at 087-7779879   FIRST COMMUNION CLASSES: Congratulations to all the 2nd class girls and boys to their parents/guardians and teachers who have celebrated First Holy Communion last weekend and this weekend. Please keep them all in your prayer intentions.   A PRAYER FOR FIRST HOLY COMMUNION CHILDREN: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of this special celebration, when these children receive Jesus in Holy Communion. Bless them with your love, grace, and peace. Fill their hearts with joy and gratitude. May they always feel close to Jesus, who loves them so completely and unconditionally.  Help them to grow in faith, hope and love. Guide them to live as true disciples of your son. Bless their families, teachers, and all who support them, so that they may nurture their faith and encourage their spiritual journey. May their First Holy Communion be the start of a lifelong friendship with Jesus.  May they always cherish his presence in their lives.  We make this prayer through Christ our Lord, Amen.   MAYO CANCER SUPPORT-MEN’S SUPPORT GROUP: Men's Support Group Information Evening, hosted by Mayo Cancer Support Rock Rose House, 32 St. Patricks Ave, Castlebar.   ANAM CARA: Supporting parents after bereavement, are hosting an Online Bereavement Information Evening on Thursday 22nd May 2025 at 7pm   WESTPORT LIBRARY CELEBRATES 50 YEARS: With a brand-new library building in the works, and as the existing branch marks a special anniversary, Westport Library staff are compiling a social history of the library service in Westport as part the celebrations.  Everyone is invited to submit stories, memories and photos for the compilation of an exhibition which will be unveiled later in year as part of the events to mark the branch's birthday.   Original photos will be scanned and returned, and anyone with any information, stories or craic about the branch, or the library service in Westport, in general, is invited to submit them to the branch or to email them to  [email protected] HELP YOUR MARRIAGE: Do you feel alone? Are you frustrated or angry with each other? Do you argue ... or have you just stopped because it only makes it worse? Retrouvaille has helped 10s of 1000s of couples experiencing difficulties in their marriage. For confidential information Email : [email protected]   Call or text 0788 7296983 www.retrouvaille.org.uk COMMUNITY INCLUSION SPOTLIGHT - WELCOMING NEW COMMUNITIES INTO YOUR ORGANISATIONS: Would your organisation like to be featured on the Mayo PPN website and across our social media platforms? Mayo PPN are running a new series called Community Inclusion Spotlight. It’s a weekly feature on a Community Group highlighting how the group is welcoming New Communities into their area. All we need is a short brief about your group and how you have welcomed ‘New Communities’ on board. Send us a short description of your group –150/250 words by email to:  [email protected] . Include 3-4 photographs.    JUBILEE YEAR PILGRIMS OF HOPE 2025.PILGRIM PASSPORT:                                                                                                                                             This joint Pilgrim Passport collaboration between Croagh Patrick, Lough Derg and Knock Shrine is proving to be very popular for Pilgrims around Ireland and overseas. Fr Richard Gibbons PP & Rector of Knock Shrine lead a group of Pilgrims from Knock Shrine on Pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick.  Fr John Kenny Adm. Westport, with many others joined in the Annual Tuam Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock. On the May Bank holiday Monday Fr John led a group of fifty Pilgrims from around Westport who took part in the One-day Retreat on Lough Derg. Fr La Flynn PP & Prior of Lough Derg led a group of his Lough Derg Island Staff on Pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick. They were the first of our group to officially receive their commemorative Jubilee lapel pins! You can pick up a Pilgrim Passport at your local Church or download it from www.pilgrimpassport   You can get your Croagh Patrick Pilgrim Passport Stamp at the Presbytery Westport, The Murrisk Community Café or The Hut at the Foot. Put you best foot forward.   INTERNATIONAL SPEAKER AND CATECHIST DAVID WELLS AT KNOCK SHRINE: Friday 23rd May: ‘Can what matters to us matter to our children’  - an evening for parents from 7.30pm to 9pm. Free admission. Saturday 24th May:  “Be united, in mind and purpose” - a   synodal approach to building up Parish Councils from 10.30am to 4pm. Cost per person: €10. Limited places available. Both events take place in the Prayer Centre at Knock Shrine. Booking is required. For enquiries and   bookings, email Nicola Mitchell at [email protected]  or phone 094 93 88100. Online bookings at www.knockshrine.ie   ILLUMINATION A SACRED OPUS: Performed by Vocalessence Ladies Choir and Mayo Concert Orchestra. Friday 30th May at St. Mary’s Church Westport at 8.00p.m. All proceeds in aid of Holy Trinity Church Westport Restoration. Tickets available at the Presbytery €20 or on line on eventbrite.   CHARITABLE TAX EXEMPTION: Sincere thanks to everyone who have returned the CHY   form, a gentle reminder to anyone that has not returned   the form you might please consider helping us avail of a tax reclaim by returning the signed form .

Gaelscoil na Cruaiche 30th April 2025 Scoil Phadraig 30th April 2025 St. Colmcille's 30th April 2025 Brackloon 30th April 2025 Callum Leavey Santa Maria 30th April 2025

Robert F. Prevost 🙏Almighty God, we thank You for the election of Pope Leo XIV. Bless him with wisdom, courage, and compassion as he leads Your Church. Grant him strength to serve faithfully and guide us closer to You. May his papacy bring peace, unity, and renewed faith to all. Amen.🙏

Is designed to encourage people to undertake pilgrimages to three main holy shrines in Ireland. Croagh Patrick, Lough Derg, and Knock Shrine Pilgrims can obtain the passport locally and have it stamped at each of the three sites they visit. Those who complete the pilgrimage to all three locations can receive a special commemorative Jubilee Year Pilgrims Medal. This is a special way to participate in the Jubilee Year 2025 by making a pilgrimage to these important Irish spiritual locations. (The passport stamp for the Croagh Pilgrimage can be obtained at Westport Parish Office, Murrisk Community Café or the Hut at the Foot of the Reek in Murrisk Car Park.) Further details: www.croaghpatrick.org    www.loughderg.org .                        www.knockshrine.ie    www.pilgrimpassport.ie JUBILEE YEAR PILGRIMS OF HOPE 2025 UPDATE !                                                                                                                        This joint Pilgrim Passport collaboration between Croagh Patrick, Lough Derg and Knock Shrine is proving to be very popular for Pilgrims around Ireland and overseas. On Saturday morning May 3rd Fr Richard Gibbons PP & Rector of Knock Shrine lead a group of Pilgrims from Knock Shrine on Pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick. On Sunday afternoon May 4th Fr John Kenny Adm. Westport, with many others joined in the Annual Tuam Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock. On Monday May 5th Fr John led a group of fifty Pilgrims from around Westport who took part in the One-day Retreat on Lough Derg. On Tuesday May 6th Fr La Flynn PP & Prior of Lough Derg led a group of his Lough Derg Island Staff on Pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick followed by a pilgrimage to Knock on the same afternoon. They were the first of our group to officially receive their commemorative Jubilee lapel pins! You can pick up a Pilgrim Passport at your local Church or download it from www.pilgrimpassport   Fr. John welcoming Fr. Richard and a group from Knock on Pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick Fr. Richard and the group of pilgrims from Knock Fr. Richard and the Knock pilgrims in St. Patrick's Oratory at the summit Tuam Diocesan Pilgrimage at Knock Shrine Fr. John at Pilgrimage at Knock Shrine Fr. Richard stamps Fr. John's Pilgrim Passport Fr. John and 50 pilgrims from around Westport on pilgrimage to Lough Derg Fr. John receives his pilgrim passport stamp at Lough Derg Fr. John meeting Fr. La Flynn Prior of Lough Derg Fr. John welcoming Fr. La Flynn and the pilgrim group from Lough Derg Fr. La Flynn and the Lough Derg pilgrim group on the summit

St. Patrick’s Oratory on Croagh Patrick is being freshly painted. Ongoing Parish Initiatives: St. Mary’s Church, Westport Westport Eco‑Congregation Croagh Patrick Path Project Join us in celebrating the #JubileeYear2025 as #PilgrimsOfHope — don’t forget your #PilgrimPassport!

LOUGH DERG: One Day Retreat to Lough Derg Monday 5th May 2025.Leaving St. Mary’s Church, Westport at 5.30a.m./pick up in Castlebar at the Fire Station at 5.45.a.m.   JUBILEE YEAR PILGRIMS OF HOPE Three Day Pilgrimage to Lough Derg Friday 30th May – Sunday 1st June 2025, bus departing from St. Mary’s Church Westport, at 8. 00a.m. Ph. No. 087-7401391   TROCAIRE APPEAL: If you have not returned your Trocaire box, you can drop in into the Parish Office during the coming week. Please change coins to notes and use the special envelopes that you received with your Trocaire Pack. Extra envelopes are available at the back of the Church.  Thank You.   PRIESTS EASTER COLLECTION : Sincere thanks to all who gave so generously to the Priests Easter Collection.   MAYO CANCER SUPPORT (ROCK ROSE HOUSE) CHURCH GATE COLLECTION: Will be holding their annual church gate collection in the area, on the weekend of May 10th & 11th We would appreciate your continued support for this local charity, that offers free emotional support to all affected by cancer and their families,  www.mayocancersupport.ie     If anyone can volunteer to assist with the collections, please contact Rose 083 489 0754   THE JUBILEE YEAR 2025 PILGRIM PASSPORT: Is designed to encourage people to undertake pilgrimages to three main holy shrines in Ireland. Croagh Patrick, Lough Derg, and Knock Shrine Pilgrims can obtain the passport locally and have it stamped at each of the three sites they visit.Those who complete the pilgrimage to all three locations can receive a special commemorative Jubilee Year Pilgrims Medal. This is a special way to participate in the Jubilee Year 2025 by making a pilgrimage to these important Irish spiritual locations. (The passport stamp for the Croagh Pilgrimage can be obtained at Westport Parish Office, Murrisk Community Café or the Hut at the Foot of the Reek in Murrisk Car Park.) Further details: www.croaghpatrick.org    www.loughderg.org .                        www.knockshrine.ie    www.pilgrimpassport.ie   SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL Should anyone need the assistance of SVP Please contact SVP in Westport on 087 9334960 CHARITABLE TAX EXEMPTION:   Sincere thanks to everyone who generously supports St Mary’s Westport Parish. It is deeply appreciated. If you are a PAYE and self-assessed tax payer contributing in excess of €250 annually you might please consider helping us avail of a tax reclaim by filling out a CHY Form.  Thanks again for your ongoing support of the parish.   TUAM PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK SHRINE : Sunday May 4th 2025 2.00p.m. Rosary 2.30p.m. Anointing of the Sick at Knock Basilica 3.00p.m. Concelebrated Mass at Knock Basilica followed by Benediction & Rosary Procession.   DEFECTIVE CONCRETE BLOCK (DCB) SUPPORT GROUP :  Homeowner led initiative, wishes to create emotional support for  Widowed / Divorced / Separated / Single  property owners in Mayo affected by Pyrite / DCB, navigating this process alone. This will be an independent and confidential support group.    All expressions of interest welcome, please contact Anne on: 089 2666389.   NEED TO ADVERTISE YOUR COMMUNITY EVENT FOR FREE: Send a jpeg poster and a short piece of text to  [email protected]  Mayo PPN will share it with our 1,200 plus Community Groups www.mayoppn.ie   BEREAVEMENT COURSE : There will be a 4 week Bereavement Programme, aimed at helping those who are struggling after the death of a loved one, taking place in St John’s Rest & Care Centre, Knock Shrine starting on Thursday 8th May.   It will run over  4 Thursday nights , ( 8th, 15th,   22nd 29th  May) from 8-9.30pm and be presented by Monica Morley. To book a place contact Monica on 094-9375320.   A PRAYER FOR FIRST HOLY COMMUNION CHILDREN: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of this special celebration, when these children receive Jesus in Holy Communion. Bless them with your love, grace, and peace. Fill their hearts with joy and gratitude. May they always feel close to Jesus, who loves them so completely and unconditionally.  Help them to grow in faith, hope and love. Guide them to live as true disciples of your son. Bless their families, teachers, and all who support them, so that they may nurture their faith and encourage their spiritual journey. May their First Holy Communion be the start of a lifelong friendship with Jesus.  May they always cherish his   presence in their lives.  We make this prayer through Christ our Lord, Amen.

Pope Francis 1936 - 2025 A PRAYER FOR OUR LATE POPE FRANCIS: Almighty God, source of all mercy and compassion, we pray for the repose of the soul of your servant, Our Pope Francis. We thank you for his life, his ministry, and his unwavering dedication to your Church. We remember his calls for justice, his advocacy for the poor and marginalized, and his-gentle spirit that touched so many lives. We are grateful for his efforts to bridge divides, to foster dialogue, and to remind us of your boundless love. Grant him eternal rest, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he find peace and joy in yourpresence, and may his memorycontinue to inspire us to live lives of faith, hope, and love. Console those who mourn his passing, and strengthen your Church in its mission to proclaim your Gospel to all the world. Through Christ our Lord, Amen, A Book of Condolences is on  www.catholicbishops.ie . LOUGH DERG: One Day Retreat to Lough Derg Monday 5th May 2025.Leaving St. Mary’s Church, Westport at 5.30a.m./pick up in Castlebar at the Fire Station at 5.45.a.m.   JUBILEE YEAR PILGRIMS OF HOPE Three Day Pilgrimage to Lough Derg Friday 30th May – Sunday 1st June 2025, bus departing from St. Mary’s Church Westport, at 8. 00a.m. Ph. No. 087-7401391   TROCAIRE APPEAL: If you have not returned your Trocaire box, you can drop in into the Parish Office during the coming week. Please change coins to notes and use the special envelopes that you received with your Trocaire Pack. Extra envelopes are available at the back of the Church.  Thank You.   MAYO CANCER SUPPORT (ROCK ROSE HOUSE) CHURCH GATE COLLECTION: Will be holding their annual church gate collection in the area, on the weekend of May 10th & 11th We would appreciate your continued support for this local charity, that offers free emotional support to all affected by cancer and their families,  www.mayocancersupport.ie     If anyone can volunteer to assist with the collections, please contact Rose 083 489 0754   THE JUBILEE YEAR 2025 PILGRIM PASSPORT: Is designed to encourage people to undertake pilgrimages to three main holy shrines in Ireland. Croagh Patrick, Lough Derg, and Knock Shrine Pilgrims can obtain the passport locally and have it stamped at each of the three sites they visit.Those who complete the pilgrimage to all three locations can receive a special commemorative Jubilee Year Pilgrims Medal. This is a special way to participate in the Jubilee Year 2025 by making a pilgrimage to these important Irish spiritual locations. (The passport stamp for the Croagh Pilgrimage can be obtained at Westport Parish Office, Murrisk Community Café or the Hut at the Foot of the Reek in Murrisk Car Park.) Further details: www.croaghpatrick.org   www.loughderg.org. www.knockshrine.ie   www.pilgrimpassport.ie   CHIME: SERVICES F0R DEAF AMD HARD OF HEARING : Outreach Clinic, Tuam. The venue is now Clinical Room R22 in the Old Health Centre, Vicar St Tuam H54 HO28 Friday, May 2nd 2025, 10am-12:30pm.  Contact Tony Dolan for more information or an appointment 086 8341318  [email protected]   CHARITABLE TAX EXEMPTION::   Sincere thanks to everyone who generously supports St Mary’s Westport Parish. It is deeply appreciated. If you are a PAYE and self-assessed tax payer contributing in excess of €250 annually you might please consider helping us avail of a tax reclaim by filling out a CHY Form.  Thanks again for your ongoing support of the parish.   TUAM PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK SHRINE : Sunday May 4th 2025 2.00p.m. Rosary 2.30p.m. Anointing of the Sick at Knock Basilica 3.00p.m. Concelebrated Mass at Knock Basilica followed by Benediction & Rosary Procession.   BLESSING FOR EXPECTANT MOTHERS: There will be a blessing ceremony for all expectant mothers in the Basilica at Knock Shrine on Saturday 3rd May at 11am.It will include a short prayer for protection and safe delivery with an individual blessing for all mothers-to-be who are present.All couples / families are welcome   HELP YOUR MARRIAGE: Do you feel alone? Are you frustrated or angry with each other? Do you argue ... or have you just stopped because it only makes it worse? Retrouvaille has helped 10s of 1000s of couples experiencing difficulties in their marriage. For confidential information Email : [email protected]   Call or text 0788 7296983    www.retrouvaille.org.uk   WE REMEMBER THOSE WHO HAVE DIED RECENTLY: Doreen Keenan, Pairc na Fia. Nora Kennedy UK & Galway, mother of Teresa Hastings, Knocknabola, Kilmeena & Caroline Duffy, Knappabeg.

Almighty God, source of all mercy and compassion, we pray for the repose of the soul of your servant, our Pope Francis. We thank you for his life, his ministry, and his unwavering dedication to your Church. We remember his calls for justice, his advocacy for the poor and marginalized, and his gentle spirit that touched so many lives. We are grateful for his efforts to bridge divides, to foster dialogue, and to remind us of your boundless love. Grant him eternal rest, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he find peace and joy in your presence, and may his memory continue to inspire us to live lives of faith, hope, and love. Console those who mourn his passing, and strengthen your Church in its mission to proclaim your Gospel to all the world. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.