Westport Parish

MASS STIPENED/OFFERFINGS: For a long time now   €10.00 has been the suggested donation for a Mass Offering. Going forward from October 1st if you are in a position to do so we would respectfully propose a donation of €15 towards supporting the Priest and the local Church. Thank you for your generosity and for considering this suggestion.   CHARITABLE TAX EXEMPTION: Sincere thanks to everyone who generously supports our weekly collection. It is deeply appreciated. If you are a PAYE and self-assessed tax payer contributing in excess of €250 annually you might please consider further helping us avail of tax reclaim by filling out a CHY Form. You can return the form at the weekend offertory collection or drop it in to the Presbytery Office Westport. Thanks again for your ongoing support of the parish.   THE MAYO ALZHEIMER SOCIETY: The Mayo branch of Alzheimer Society of Ireland will be holding a Memory Walk on Sunday, 21 st  September, 2025 around Lough Lannagh - suitable for all levels.  Meeting point is at 12 noon at Lough Lannagh Leisure Complex, Castlebar, Co. Mayo, F23 A257. Register for the Memory Walk on  www.alzheimer.ie     AGE FRIENDLY PROGRAMME: Older Peoples AGM and Information Day is being held on Monday 15 th  September 2025 in the TF Royal Hotel, Castlebar with registration starting at 9:30am and concluding at 2pm.   MEN’S SUPPORT GROUP (MAYO CANCER SUPPORT) MCS will host a men's support group Tuesday 9 th  September @7.30pm Rock Rose House, Castlebar More info: 094 903 8407   MAYO CANCER SUPPORT ROCK ROSE HOUSE:   Mayo Cancer Support at Rock Rose House, annual flag day will take place in Westport on Saturday 13th September,2025, for which a permit from A Garda Siochana has been granted. If there is anyone who can volunteer for a couple hours on the day, please contract Rose at 094 9038407 / 083 4890754.   MAYO BRANCH OF DOWN SYNDROME IRELAND: Are having their annual Church gate collection on the 13th and 14th September 2025 across the churches of the parishes. All monies raised, stay within the Co. Mayo community. Your support would be greatly appreciated. MEN OF ST JOSEPH GROUP:  Men of St Joseph is a new monthly meeting for men in the Archdiocese of Tuam which will have at its core, Faith, Formation, and Fraternity. The group will meet one Sunday a month at 7pm in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel in Tuam for prayer, talks, followed by social time. Contact Fr Mark on 093 24250  or  [email protected]     KNOCK COUNSELLING SERVICE : Is running a 'Calming Your Anxiety'  Programme to support participants better understand and manage their anxiety & move towards creating some ease in life. The programme commences on Tuesday 23rd September 6p.m. -8 p.m.  and runs for 6 consecutive Tuesday evenings. For more details and to register please phone  094 93-75032 .   SEASON OF CREATION : Practical eco-spiritual actions include reconnection with nature, adopting sustainable habits and integrating spirituality into our daily choices - all inspired by the Season of Creation and Pope Leo’s reminder to us of Laudato Si’s powerful call for an "ecological conversion." - inviting and urging individuals and communities to move beyond a consumerist mindset  towards a spirit of integral ecology , recognizing the deep connection between environmental Westport Eco congregation are recommencing their Tuesday Climate Chats on Tuesday 16 th  September in Carrow beg house 10.45-12.15  This month’s topic is Climate degradation, social injustice, and the spiritual health of people. Justice.   BLOOD CLINIC: Castlecourt Hotel, Westport, Tuesday 9 th , Wednesday 10th & Thursday 11th September 2025.   BREAST CANCER AWARENESS: Breast Cancer Awareness Month takes place October 1st-31st.For further information, please log onto  www.breastcancerireland.com   CHARITY EVENT : 14 Cyclists are taking part in an epic 500KM in three days in aid of the Paediatric Unit Mayo General from 11 th – 13 th  September. We would be grateful if you would consider donating to what is a great cause. For more info. Contact Richie Needham at: [email protected]   ACCORD CATHOLIC MARRIAGE CARE SERVICE: Phone 01-5053112 or e.mail : marriagepreparation@accord PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS: Patrick Kearns, Mitchfileld, Knappagh & late of Owenwee. Séan McLaughlin, Thurles, brother of the late Agatha Golden, Leenane Road. Owen O Malley, Lecanvey

The symbol for Season of Creation 2025 is titled "Garden of Peace". It depicts a white dove flying over a tree. The left side of the tree is barren, with roots digging into dry soil, surrounded by an arid, desolate landscape...symbolising the destruction caused by war, famine, genocide, racism, etc. In contrast, the right side of the tree is lush and green, standing in a flourishing landscape... depicting harmony, peace, inclusion, tolerance etc. The dove, carrying an olive branch in its beak, flies toward the right - symbolising peace as a transition from a war-torn, overexploited land to one that is fertile, thriving, and hospitable. The dove symbolises hope which comes with our willingness to reconcile with creation, act on its behalf, to change our behaviour and to pray.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP: Bereavement Support Group meeting at the Family Centre, knock each Wednesday at 11am.No booking required. Further information from Monica Morley on 094-9375320   BREAST CANCER AWARENESS: Breast Cancer Awareness Month takes place October 1st-31st.For further information, please log onto  www.breastcancerireland.com .   SEASON OF CREATION 2025: Season of creation runs from Sept 1- Oct 4th every year.  Finishing on the feast of St Francis of Assisi - as in previous years we will have a Blessing of the Animal’s service at Murrisk Car park on Saturday October 4th at 2 pm .  The theme for this year is Peace with Creation. Our Biblical text for this year is Isaiah 32:14-18. The prophet Isaiah pictured the desolated Creation without peace because of the lack of justice and the broken relationship between God and humankind. This description of devastated cities and waste lands eloquently stresses the fact that human destructive behaviours have a negative impact on the Earth. Our hope: Creation will find peace when justice is restored. There is still hope and the expectation for a peaceful Earth. To hope in a biblical context does not mean to stand still and quiet, but to act, pray, change, and reconcile with Creation and the Creator in unity, metanoia (repentance), and solidarity. Please bring home a copy of The Season of Creation Prayer for your Family.   MAYO HOSPICE: Coffee Connect morning, to welcome the public to Mayo Hospice on September 8th between 10am - 12 noon in the restaurant area. Attendees will get an opportunity to meet the team and learn about our different roles and work we do at Mayo Hospice, over tea or coffee   BACK TO SCHOOL PRAYER: Almighty God, as the new school term begins, bless all students with curiosity and courage and bless all teachers and staff with patience and generosity. Help us to listen with open hearts, to speak with kindness and to support one another in our quest to grow wiser every day. Keep us safe, guide our steps, and inspire us to use what we learn to help and serve one another. Amen.    KNOCK MINI VIGIL: The September Mini Vigil takes place at Knock Shrine on Friday evening, September 5th. Confessions are available from 8pm to 9pm. The vigil takes place in Knock Parish Church from 9pm to Midnight. All are welcome. EXHIBITION OF OIL PAINTINGS: Clew Bay Hotel by Chris Harper Snr.  Month of August.   THE MAYO ALZHEIMER SOCIETY: The Mayo branch of Alzheimer Society of Ireland will be holding a Memory Walk on Sunday, 21 st  September, 2025 around Lough Lannagh - suitable for all levels.  Meeting point is at 12 noon at Lough Lannagh Leisure Complex, Castlebar, Co. Mayo, F23 A257. Register for the Memory Walk on  www.alzheimer.ie     AGE FRIENDLY PROGRAMME: Older Peoples AGM and Information Day is being held on Monday 15 th  September 2025 in the TF Royal Hotel, Castlebar with registration starting at 9:30am and concluding at 2pm.   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   FAREWELL, THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS!  After five years serving in this Parish, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all those who supported me during my time here. I especially want to thank those who've become friends and for all you have shared with me. It has been a real blessing to walk with all of you through moments of joy and challenge, and I am deeply grateful for the trust and kindness you have shown to me. Lastly, sincere appreciation to the parish staff, parishioners, school’s staff, principals, teachers, parents and pupils for the countless ways in which you made my work enjoyable — it was always a pleasure. As I move into a new chapter, I thank God for all of you and for the many ways in which my experience here has helped me grow in faith, hope, and love. Farewell, thank you and God bless! Martin Dunne    FR. BENEDICT & FR. CLETUS: As September begins, we wish all the best to Fr. Benedict and Fr. Cletus as they return to Castlebar after their stay with us here in Westport during July and August PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS: Kathleen Heraty, Oughty, Liscarney Kathleen O’ Kane (nee Heraty) Chicago & Derrymore, Drummin, sister of Ann Duffy, Pinewoods Stephen Whelan, Farnaught Bernie Hoban, Carrabaun & McBride Home

HERITAGE WEEK FREE GUIDED TOUR OF: St. Mary’s Church on Thursday’s at 2pm during the summer. Watch out for the sign outside the church. Thanks to our Tour Guide Barbara Rabbett.   BACK TO SCHOOL PRAYER: Almighty God, as the new school term begins, bless all students with curiosity and courage and bless all teachers and staff with patience and generosity. Help us to listen with open hearts, to speak with kindness and to support one another in our quest to grow wiser every day. Keep us safe, guide our steps, and inspire us to use what we learn to help and serve one another. Amen.   BUS TO LOUGH DERG:  One day retreat on Saturday Sept 6th. Westport via Castlebar and Bohola.Places limited. Call Bernie on 087 9870170  for more info and booking.   LEAVE NO TRACE: Interested in becoming a Croagh Patrick Volunteer Ambassador? Help to protect the Mountain’s fragile ecosystems and deep cultural heritage Welcome visitors and offer guidance Please contact: - leavenotraceireland.org   MAYO PPN: Have you an event this Autumn that you’d like to promote? Email a jpg along with a short description of the event to [email protected] and the Mayo PPN will include it in our Autumn 2025 newsletter   ACCORD CATHOLIC MARRIAGE CARE SERVICE: Phone 01-5053112  or E-mail : marriagepreparation@accord   BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP: Bereavement Support Group meeting at the Family Centre, knock each Wednesday at 11am.No booking required. Further information from Monica Morley on 094-9375320   EXHIBITION OF OIL PAINTINGS: Clew Bay Hotel by Chris Harper Snr.  Month of August.   ATLANTIC CARE: Atlantic Care are urgently recruiting compassionate Caregivers to provide quality support, companionship, and assistance for seniors, ensuring comfort within their own homes. Competitive rates of pay and support network. If you are interested contact Nollag 094 9014028 A PRAYER FOR GENA AND THOSE WHO ARE KIDNAPPED: Heavenly Father, We come before You with heavy hearts, lifting up Gena and those who are kidnapped from the Sainte Helene orphanage in Haiti. We ask for Your divine protection over them, that You would surround them with Your love and safety in this dark time. Bring peace to their minds amid fear, and strength                                     to their bodies in their captivity. We pray for their rescue, Lord, that You would open the eyes and hearts of those involved in their abduction, leading to their swift and safe return. May Your justice prevail, and may                                                             Your mercy cover those who are suffering. We trust in Your power and know that                                                            You are a God of hope and deliverance. Keep Gena and each of those with her close in Your care, and bring comfort to all those waiting anxiously.  May Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard their hearts and minds through Christ our Lord.   Amen   MAYO RECOVERY COLLEGE: Mayo Recovery College begin their Autumn Winter 2025 suite of mental health & wellbeing modules on the following dates throughout September in the Atlantic Technological University in Castlebar (online option also). Everyone welcome. Tuesday mornings 16 th  & 23 rd  at 10am 'Recovery, Let's talk'. Thursday evenings 18 th  & 25 th  'All about Stress' at 5pm. Call/Text Karen McHale 0860294901 or email  [email protected]   to register.   New participants are warmly invited to begin at any time throughout the semester."   MAYO MENTAL HEALTH: Mayo Mental Health Church Gate Collection takes place Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th August.          Please give generously.   MAYO HOSPICE: Coffee Connect morning, to welcome the public to Mayo Hospice on September 8th between 10am - 12 noon in the restaurant area. Attendees will get an opportunity to meet the team and learn about our different roles and work we do at Mayo Hospice, over tea or coffee   SUMMER STARS PRESENTATION: Local Children's Author Shelly O'Neil will Present the children taking part in the summer stars challenge at the Westport Library. Shelly is a Graphic Designer and Illustrator with over 20 years' experience and is also the Author and Illustrator of The Watchman of Westport Children's book. The presentation will take place on Saturday the 6 th  of Septembe r PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS: Ella O Malley (nee McNally) King’s Hill & McBride Terrace Michael & Anne Mulchrone, Kilmeena Mick Mulchrone, Knockglass, Newport Margaret Geraghty, Tubberhill

I join with Archbishop Eamon Martin, Archbishop of Armagh, in calling for Sunday 24th August to be a day of prayer and reflection for the suffering people of Gaza and for all who are the innocent victims of this terrifying and protracted war. Over the summer many people have become increasingly troubled by the news reports of a deteriorating situation, with hunger emerging amidst the death and destruction. There is also the terrible plight of the hostages and their distraught families. Pope Leo XIV has called for "a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and full respect for international humanitarian law." The Irish Bishops' statement of June of this year was clear that the deaths of tens of thousands of non-combatants, many of them women and children, "... is unconscionable and disproportionate. It is immoral for world leaders to stand by inactively in the face of this outrageous tragedy for humanity." I encourage you to show solidarity, in any way you can, for the plight of the people of Gaza and in the land of the Lord's birth, by supporting humanitarian aid, and by praying for peace, a ceasefire, justice and a return of all hostages. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, commented "Christ is not absent from Gaza. He is there crucified in the wounded, buried under the rubble and yet present in every act of mercy, every candle in the darkness, every hand extended to the suffering." Please join people all over Ireland, on Sunday 24th August, praying for peace. Pray at Mass, at adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, pray at home for peace and for the necessary humanitarian aid to reach those who are in need. May our prayer be a light in the darkness for those who suffer, and may Our Lady, Queen of Peace, intercede for all who long for lasting peace. Prayer for Gaza   Almighty God of mercy and healing, we lift up the people of Gaza who suffer beneath the weight of war, fear, grief, and hunger. May Your light shine through the darkness of destruction and guide all hearts toward compassion, protection and justice. We pray for an immediate ceasefire that stops the killing, opens corridors for aid, and allows the wounded to receive care, the hungry to be fed, the grieving to begin to mend their lives and the hostages returned. We pray for courageous leadership that chooses peace instead of power, dialogue instead of dominance, and restraint instead of retaliation. May weapons be laid down so that families can return to their homes to rebuild what war has destroyed and to restore dignity to every life affected by this conflict. May relief be allowed to arrive swiftly and may the medical teams be unimpeded in their work. We pray for the return of all hostages to their loved ones. May the power of mercy, dissolve anger into reconciliation and fear into trust. May communities harmed by violence be given the space to grieve, to hope and to heal. And at this time, may all who suffer feel Your steadfast presence. “Christ is not absent from Gaza. He is there in the wounded, buried under the rubble and yet present in every act of mercy, every candle in the darkness, every hand extended to the suffering.”  (Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzzaballa) May Your presence awaken courage in the strong and comfort in the weak, until peace is restored to all. Amen.

St. Mary's Church WestportMadonnaMadonna Madonna St Mary’s Church Westport The beautiful bronze ‘Madonna’ which graces the facade of St. Mary’s church was sculpted by Gabriel Hayes O’Ríordáin , a renowned Irish artist (1909 - 1978). Other famous sculptures of hers decorate public buildings in Dublin - the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in Kildare Street and also the D.I.T. in Cathal Brugha Street (‘The Three Graces’). In her work on the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (1935), Hayes collaborated with architect J.R.E. Boyd Barrett (Cork) who, in later years, would be  commissioned to design the facade of St.Mary’s church, Westport (1961). The two happily collaborated once more. Gabriel Hayes O’Ríordáin is remembered for her designs on the the first decimal coinage used in Ireland (1971). She designed the mythical birds on the half-penny, penny (1p) and two-penny coins (2p) and very much enjoyed the fact that her works of art were carried around by so many in their purses and pockets. She considered her ‘life’s work’ to be the life-size ‘Stations of the Cross’ which adorn the walls of Galway Cathedral. She began work on the ‘Stations’ in 1958 and completed them, some 18 years later in 1976, two years before her death. A magnum opus indeed. Her final sculpture (1977), for which she won the Oireactas exhibition award for sculpture was a head, in walnut, of Grainne Mhaol, looking out to sea. This is held in a private collection.

HERITAGE WEEK FREE GUIDED TOUR OF: St. Mary’s Church on Thursday’s at 2pm during the summer. Watch out for the sign outside the church. Thanks to our Tour Guide Barbara Rabbett.   BUS TO LOUGH DERG:  One day retreat on Saturday Sept 6th. Westport via Castlebar and Bohola. Places limited. Call Bernie on 087 9870170 for more info and booking.   LEAVE NO TRACE: Interested in becoming a Croagh Patrick Volunteer Ambassador? Help to protect the Mountain’s fragile ecosystems and deep cultural heritage. Welcome visitors and offer guidance Please contact: - leavenotraceireland.org   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   ACCORD CATHOLIC MARRIAGE CARE SERVICE: Phone 01-5053112  or e.mail : marriagepreparation@acco   HOPE SPACE: Hope Space CLG provides a free one-to-one listening service for children and young people (4-17 years old) who are impacted by grief caused by bereavement. See  hopespace.ie , contact Áine at   [email protected]  or call 091 342566/087 4667506 for more details.   BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP: Bereavement Support Group meeting at the Family Centre, knock each Wednesday at 11am.No booking required. Further information from Monica Morley on 094-9375320   EXHIBITION OF OIL PAINTINGS: Clew Bay Hotel by Chris Harper Snr.  month of August.   ATLANTIC CARE: Atlantic Care are urgently recruiting compassionate Caregivers to provide quality support, companionship, and assistance for seniors, ensuring comfort within their own homes. Competitive rates of pay and support network. If you are interested contact Nollag 0949014028   KNOCK NOVENA CONTINUES UNTIL 21 ST  AUGUST: Novena Ceremonies 3.00p.m. & 8.00p.m.  in Knock Basilica. Workshops 12.45pm daily  in St. John’s welcome centre. Themed Guided Prayer 11.15am and 5.15p.m. daily in Prayer Centre. Witness Walk Thursday 21 st  at 6.45pm. The Novena Prayer Leaflet is available at the back of the Church. Further details of the Guest Speakers are on the Poster on the Notice Board A bus will leave the Quay Westport at 6.00p.m. the Mall 6.15pm  on the following dates 15 th  Aug.18 th , 20 th  & 21 st . Booking please Contact Margaret at 098-27109   SPIN & WEAVE CRAFTS AT WESTPORT LIBRARY: A workshop on traditional weaving and crafts will be held in the Westport Library on the 20th of August between 10 Am and 4 Pm It is a hands-on journey into the world of traditional fibre arts. The workshop will celebrate the beauty and value of heritage crafts by learning the ancient art of spinning wool into yarn using a drop spindle which is a simple yet powerful tool that dates back to Neolithic times.   MEN OF ST JOSEPH GROUP:  Men of St Joseph is a new monthly meeting for men in the Archdiocese of Tuam which will have at its core, Faith, Formation, and Fraternity. The group will meet one Sunday a month at 7pm in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel in Tuam for prayer, talks, followed by social time. This will be an opportunity to grow deeper into your faith and build support and brotherhood with other Christian men. For further information please contact Fr Mark on 093 24250 or  [email protected]     A Prayer for Gena and those who are kidnapped: Heavenly Father,  We come before You with heavy hearts, lifting up Gena and those who are kidnapped from the Sainte Helene orphanage in Haiti.  We ask for Your divine protection over them, that You would surround them with Your love and safety in this dark time.  Bring peace to their minds amid fear, and strength                                     to their bodies in their captivity.  We pray for their rescue, Lord, that You would open the eyes and hearts of those involved in their abduction, leading to their swift and safe return.  May Your justice prevail, and may                                                             Your mercy cover those who are suffering.  We trust in Your power and know that                                                            You are a God of hope and deliverance.  Keep Gena and each of those with her close in Your care, and bring comfort to all those waiting anxiously.  May Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard their hearts and minds through Christ our Lord.   Amen PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS: Charles Slevin, Killyleagh, Co. Down & Prospect. Martin Neary, Killmove, brother in-law of Cecil Horkan, Belclare. Kevin Moran, Old Head, Louisburgh brother of John Moran , Carrowbeg East Margaret Berry(Sr. Mary Edwin Berry), late of the Fairgreen Carmel Le Galliez (nee Burns) Tim O Connell, Carrabaun Margaret Golden, Carrowholly Frank Gill, Upper Carrowbeg Est. Helen Feehan, Upper Paddock, Westport Teresa Walsh, Barleyhill

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FREE GUIDED TOUR OF: St. Mary’s Church on Thursday’s at 2pm during the summer. Watch out for the sign outside the church. Thanks to our Tour Guide Barbara Rabbett.   THE JUBILEE YEAR 2025:   The Croagh Patrick’s Exhibition continues at the back of St. Mary’s Church Westport this sacred landscape for future generations. LEAVE NO TRACE: Interested in becoming a Croagh Patrick Volunteer Ambassador? Help to protect the Mountain’s fragile ecosystems and deep cultural heritage Welcome visitors and offer guidance Please contact: - leavenotraceireland.org   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   ACCORD CATHOLIC MARRIAGE CARE SERVICE: Phone 01-5053112 or e.mail : marriagepreparation@acco   BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP: Bereavement Support Group meeting at the Family Centre, knock each Wednesday at 11am.No booking required. Further information from Monica Morley on 094-9375320   HOPE SPACE: Hope Space CLG provides a free one-to-one listening service for children and young people (4-17 years old) who are impacted by grief caused by bereavement. See  hopespace.ie , contact Áine at  [email protected]  or call 091 342566/087 4667506 for more details.   EXHIBITION OF OIL PAINTINGS: Clew Bay Hotel by Chris Harper Snr.  month of August.   ATLANTIC CARE: Atlantic Care are urgently recruiting compassionate Caregivers to provide quality support, companionship, and assistance for seniors, ensuring comfort within their own homes. Competitive rates of pay and support network. If you are interested contact Nollag 0949014028     LOURDES PILGRIMAGE: Four weeks before our Tuam and Killala Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, August 29th, a late minute reminder or two would be appreciated. The archbishop has very kindly and generously made himself available to lead the Pilgrimage.   KNOCK NOVENA AUJGUST 13 TH  – 21 ST  2025: Novena Ceremonies 3.00p.m. & 8.00p.m. in Knock Basilica. Workshops 12.45pm daily in St. John’s welcome centre. Themed Guided Prayer 11.15am and 5.15p.m. daily in Prayer Centre. Witness Walk Thursday 21 st  at 6.45pm. The Novena Prayer Leaflet is available at the back of the Church. Further details of the Guest Speakers are on the Poster on the Notice Board A bus will leave the Quay Westport at 6.00p.m. the Mall 6.15pm on the following dates 15 th  Aug.18 th , 20 th  & 21 st . Booking  please Contact Margaret at 098-27109   JUBILEE YEAR OPPORTUNITIES AT LOUGH DERG: This August & September. Three Day Pilgrimages continue until 15 th  August (Last day to begin the pilgrimage 13 th August) Advanced booking Essential. One Day Retreats, places available August 19,23 rd ,24,25 & 30 th  September 3 rd , 6 th , 7 th , 9 th ,13 th  20 th  & 21 st .   National Sacred Heart Crusade  – a Sacred Heart Statue blessed by Pope Francis will be present for the Day Retreats on 23 rd , 24 th  & 25 th  August.   A Prayer for Gena and those who are kidnapped: Heavenly Father,  We come before You with heavy hearts, lifting up Gena and those who are kidnapped from the Sainte Helene orphanage in Haiti.  We ask for Your divine protection over them, that You would surround them with Your love and safety in this dark time.  Bring peace to their minds amid fear, and strength                                     to their bodies in their captivity.  We pray for their rescue, Lord, that You would open the eyes and hearts of those involved in their abduction, leading to their swift and safe return.  May Your justice prevail, and may                                                             Your mercy cover those who are suffering.  We trust in Your power and know that                                                            You are a God of hope and deliverance.  Keep Gena and each of those with her close in Your care, and bring comfort to all those waiting anxiously.  May Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard their hearts and minds through Christ our Lord.    Amen

FREE GUIDED TOUR OF: St. Mary’s Church on Thursday’s at 2pm during the summer. Watch out for the sign outside the church. Thanks to our Tour Guide Barbara Rabbett.   LOUGH DERG: JUBILEE YEAR: Three-day Pilgrimage to Lough Derg, Friday 8 th  Aug – Sun 10 th . Bus departing from St. Mary’s Church, Westport @ 8.00a.m. Ph No. 087-7401391   THE JUBILEE YEAR 2025:   The Croagh Patrick’s Exhibition continues at the back of St. Mary’s Church Westport this sacred landscape for future generations. LEAVE NO TRACE: Interested in becoming a Croagh Patrick Volunteer Ambassador? Help to protect the Mountain’s fragile ecosystems and deep cultural heritage Welcome visitors and offer guidance Please contact: - leavenotraceireland.org   YOUTH 2000 SUMMER FESTIVAL: Register online at Youth2000.ie or for more information contact  [email protected]  - see you there! 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   BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP:  Bereavement Support Group meeting at the Family Centre, knock each Wednesday at 11am.No booking required. Further information from Monica Morley on 094-9375320   EXHIBITION OF OIL PAINTINGS: Clew Bay Hotel by Chris Harper Snr.  month of August.   MÁMÉAN: The annual August pilgrimage to Máméan will take place on Sunday, 3 August 2025.   Turas na Croise  at 3.00 p.m. followed by Mass.     LOURDES PILGRIMAGE: Four weeks before our Tuam and Killala Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, August 29th, a late minute reminder or two would be appreciated. The archbishop has very kindly and generously made himself available to lead the Pilgrimage. PATRICK’S PATH. A SPIRITUAL GUIDE 5: On the way down-a moment to let go “Jesus is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him, just as he told you Mk 16:7 Lord, it’s great to be on the way down now. I can only marvel at the splendour of this place as I leave it behind me. Call to mind some habit or negative attitude that you wish to overcome: ask God to help you. And don’t forget to say a little prayer for those still ‘on the way up’ As I return to the familiar terrain of daily life, I ask for the grace, Lord, to treasure the memory of this journey, to let its gifts continue to bless my life and to remember, often, to look up. To look up to you, Lord, from where my help comes. Go raibh liomsa inniu, Triúr ar na sliabh Athair, Mac agus Spiorad Naomh. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.   GARLAND FRIDAY & REEK SUNDAY THANK YOU: Thanks to everyone who took part in our Annual Croagh Patrick Pilgrimage. A special thanks to John Commins the Custodian of the Reek and the team of stewards. Thanks to the Murrisk Development Association, the Order of Malta, the Mountain Rescue Teams, the Gardaí, our Archbishop Francis Duffy and the priests. Go mbeirimid beo ar an am seo aris.   KNOCK NOVENA AUJGUST 13 TH  – 21 ST  2025 Novena Ceremonies 3.00p.m. & 8.00p.m. in Knock Basilica. Workshops 12.45pm daily in St. John’s welcome centre. Themed Guided Prayer 11.15am and 5.15p.m. daily in Prayer Centre. Witness Walk Thursday 21 st  at 6.45pm. The Novena Prayer Leaflet is available at the back of the Church. Further details of the Guest Speakers are on the Poster on the Notice Board   JUBILEE YEAR OPPORTUNITIES AT LOUGH DERG: This August & September. Three Day Pilgrimages continue until 15 th  August (Last day to begin the pilgrimage 13 th  August) Advanced booking Essential. One Day Retreats, places available August 19,23 rd ,24,25 & 30 th September 3 rd , 6 th , 7 th , 9 th ,13 th 20 th  & 21 st .   ATLANTIC CARE: Atlantic Care are urgently recruiting compassionate Caregivers to provide quality support, companionship, and assistance for seniors, ensuring comfort within their own homes. Competitive rates of pay and support network. If you are interested contact Nollag 0949014028   BANK DETAILS:    Acc Name         Westport Parish BIC:                          IPBSIE2D IBAN:                     IE83IPBS99072933204684