Local Notes: Brigid and Me programme, ordination and a brand new play
St Paul's Church in Waterford
Deepest sympathy to Mary Reid, Ballybeg Court and John (Gunner) O’Callaghan, Ballybeg Park, on the death of their brother Joey O’Callaghan, Wren Court, Norwood, who died on Sunday, January 10.
Formerly of Waterford Crystal and Benefica Ladies Soccer.
Joey Remains lay in repose in Thompson's Funeral Home on Tuesday, January 13, with vigil prayers and rosary.
Requiem mass was celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church on Wednesday, January 14, followed by burial in Kilbarry cemetery.
Joey was the founder of the Benefica Ladies soccer Club and was well known as the man of ladies' soccer in Waterford.
He was a lovely gentleman, and he will be sadly missed by all who had the pleasure to know him.
He is also survived by his wife Ann, sons Martin and William, daughter Sharon, his daughters-in-law Bretta and Ann-Marie, son-in-law Neil, his three grandchildren, his sisters Bridie and Betty, nephews, nieces, extended family, relatives and his many friends to whom we also offer our deepest sympathy.
A very happy Birthday is wished to Tara Cooney, who celebrated her special day on Monday, January 19.
Birthday wishes come to her from her granny, Peggy O’ Neill, Ballybeg drive her mam and dad, all her family and many friends.
A very happy birthday is wished to Katie Dower Cherrymount, who celebrates her special day on February 2.
Birthday greetings come to her from Mark and Emily, her granny, Betty Dower, Priory Lawn and all the family.
A very happy birthday is wished to Sam Skelton Barrack Street, who celebrates his birthday on January 30.
Birthday wishes come to him from his mam and dad, Lisa and Barry and his grandparents, Andy and Noreen Skelton, Ashe Road, Kingsmeadow and all his family and friends.
A very happy birthday is wished to Ruadhan Mongey-Lacey Ballyshunnock, Kilmacthomas who celebrated his birthday on January 30.
Birthday wishes come to him from his granddad Willie Mongey Ballybeg Park and all his family.
A very happy birthday is wished to Jessica Higgins, Clonard Park, who celebrated her birthday on Monday, January 19.
Birthday wishes come to her from all her family and her many friends.
A very happy birthday is wished to Aidrian Flanagan, Ballybeg Court, who celebrated his birthday on Tuesday, January 20.
Birthday wishes come to him from his mam and dad, Jackie and Nicky, his nieces and nephews, his sister Debbie and brother Darren and his many friends.
A very happy birthday is wished to Lisa Cummins, Clonard Park, who celebrated her special day on Monday, January 19.
Birthday wishes come to her from all her family and her many friends.
Southend FC run their Academy Friday Nights Lights for the little ones aged four years to nine years from 6pm to 7pm Weather permitting.
All are welcome cost of €2.
The committee would like to thank all who supported their Christmas raffle and for the continuing support for the monthly split the pot.
Training continues for all schoolboys from under 10 years to under 16 years. Contact the club for details.
Her many Patients and friends in our area were very saddened to hear of the death of Dr Ita Creavin, late of the Rowe/Creavin practice, who died on Tuesday, January 12.
Dr Creavin was a wonderful doctor and friend, nothing was to much trouble for her patients.
She had taken early retirement some time ago and she will be sadly missed by her family and all her colleagues and patients and her many friends.
She will never be forgotten.
To her husband, Ray McEvoy, her children, Nell and Cathy and Hugh her mother Kitty, her sisters, all her family and all her colleagues in the Rowe/ Creavin Practice, we offer our deepest sympathy.
Waterford Sports Partnership is delighted to be hosting a Sport Inclusion & Disability Awareness Training Session.
This practical and engaging session is all about building confidence, understanding disability, and learning how to include people with disabilities in sport and physical activity.
Monday, February 23 from 6pm-7pm at Waterford City Rugby Club, Ballybeg. Price €10 per person (+Event fee).
Perfect for coaches, volunteers, club members, teachers, and anyone who wants to make sport welcoming for everyone.
Book your place now: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/sports-inclusion-disability-awareness-training-23rd-february-2026-tickets-1979984062631?aff=oddtdtcreator.
Our parish shop is open on Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10am to 12pm, Baptismal certs, Mass cards, holy water.
Also, in stock are medals and baptism candles.
Please support your Parish shop.
Mass Times in St Saviour's Church daily at 10am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. No Mass on Wednesday. Sunday Mass Times 8-30am, 11am and 5-30pm.
If you need assistance from the St Rose of Lima St Vincent de Paul Conference Ballybeg, please phone 051350725, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Baptism: The sacrament of Baptism is celebrated every Sunday at 12pm. A week's notice is required. Please contact the parish office for details. Like us on Facebook: stsavioursbb Marriage: At least 3 months’ notice must be given.
Fr Robert Grant PP is always available on Sundays to take mass bookings or offerings of for mass.
Confessions are heard after morning mass.
Care of the sick and elderly. Please contact the parish office if you have a relative or neighbour sick at home or in hospital who would like to be visited or added to the first Friday calls.
First Friday calls take place between 10am and 12pm.
You can contact the office at 051376032, email stsaviourspo@gmail.com, or by parish text only mobile 089239519.
Any Items for this column can be sent to marian.murphy@hotmail.com.
“We need to come together to explore better ways of living with ourselves, with one another, and with this sacred beautiful earth.” -Brian McLaren
On Sunday, January 25, David Cooney is being ordained as a Permanent Deacon for the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore by Archbishop Alphonsus Cullinan in St. Paul’s Church, Lisduggan at 3pm.
David lives in Lismore Park and is married with a family and is generously making a life-long commitment to our church.
His main functions will be both spiritual and practical.
This ministry was restored by Vatican 11.
After a three-year formation and study programme.
The overall purpose of the formation programme is to help each candidate to reach a mature understanding of his faith, and to develop the personal and pastoral skills, which will enable him to share this faith with others through the exercise of charity, which also has a significant liturgical dimension.
This is a ministry not taken lightly and he will work in close collaboration with the Bishop and clergy to bring new energy and life to our faith.
Thank you, David, for making this wonderful commitment to our parish and community.
We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers as you embark on this journey.
The painting of our Church is progressing well and Saturday 6pm Mass and Sunday Mass at 8.30am and 11.30am are being held in the Church, as well as funerals.
The weekday Masses are being held in the Parish Centre at 10am Monday to Friday.
Butlerstown Church was painted and looked lovely for the Christmas Season.
It was beautifully decorated as usual by Mary Power and friends.
To mark the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Evening Prayer will be celebrated in the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity Within, on Sunday, January 18, at 5pm.
All are welcome.
We are delighted that Kathleen Burns is walking in the St. Paul’s Parish Frank Leahy Run and helping raise funds for our Parish Clock.
Ann Duggan and 25 members of The Soul Song Gospel Community Choir are taking part in the St Paul’s Frank Leahy Run and Walk on January 25 and raising funds for local charities.
If you have children involved in a group or club. If you support a charity or club, why not contact us for an optional sponsorship card to our event, where you get to give your entire funds raised to the group of your choice.
Waterford’s fastest five-mile run at 11.30am from St. Paul’s Church – register at https://my.racereslult.com377724/ or enjoy a leisurely three-mile walk which starts at 11am.
Register from 10am onwards at the Church.
Sponsorship cards are optional and have proved very popular with many GAA clubs, soccer, scout and health support groups.
Contact our hard-working committee: John Hearne, Pat O’Connor and Jason Murphy.
Would you like to make a difference for young people in your parish and be trained alongside other like-minded people?
If you or someone over the age of 18 (no upper age limit), who has a heart for young people, upholds the teachings of the Catholic Church and can work as a member of a team, please speak to your Parish Priest about the role of Parish Faith Rep this year.
More information on the role, the application and the training process can be found on http://waterfordlismore.ieparish-faith-reps/.
Information sessions will be held at St. John’s Pastoral Centre, John’s Hill, Waterford, on February 4 at 7:30pm and on Zoom on February 12 at 7pm.
Email youthministry@waterfordlismore.ie for more information. Applications close on Friday, February 20.
Do you have any unwanted Christmas gifts you won’t use?
We’d love to give them a new home!
We are very grateful for donations such as chocolates & biscuits (sell by date April or later), candles, bubbly, perfumes, beauty products.
These lovely items are used for group refreshments in the centre and to make up hampers for raffles throughout the year.
Our hampers are a huge source of funding for the centre, and these donations make a big difference.
Thank you so much for your continued support! Please drop off all donations to: Solas Cancer Support Centre, Williamstown, Waterford, Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm.
We ask all fifth-class girls to join us at Try Pres for a fun and interactive morning.
Discover our state-of-the-art facilities and learn more about the academic and extracurricular opportunities available.
Give Pres a Try! Date: February 7, 9:30am to 12pm. Book online at: office@preswaterford.ie.
Our extracurricular activities are back up and running for the new term.
We have also added some new and exciting activities to the calendar.
They range from many sports clubs ie Camogie, Soccer, Basketball, to Chess Club, Homework Club, TY Digital Assistants, Amber Flag to Russian Language Club. Something for everyone!! Don’t delay, sign up today!
Tys enjoyed a very engaging visit to the Local History Room in Waterford Central Library to complete their research on their Urban Geography Streets of Waterford Project.
Many thanks to Paul for facilitating our visit.
Fifth-year Drama, Film and Theatre students had a “Spectacular, Spectacular” day recently to Bord Gais Energy Theatre to enjoy a production of “Moulin Rouge” as part of their course studies on theatre.
A hugely educational and enjoyable day for all!
It’s a typical January night here in Waterford, drizzly and cold!
Our volunteer teams are heading out along the quays and the River Suir and will be out into the early hours, keeping a steady presence and helping to make sure everyone gets home safe every night.
If you’re out and about, take care in the wet weather.
And if you see our teams, feel free to stop for a quick hello or a chat – we’re always happy to see friendly faces!
If you or someone you know needs support, help is always available! SpunOut.ie: Text SPUNOUT to 086-1800280, Aware.ie: 1800 80 48 48, TalktoTom.ie: (0818) 30 30 61.
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Dr Ita Creavin, 12 Park Avenue, Maypark Village, Waterford City, Waterford/Ballinasloe, Galway. Late of the Rowe Creavin Medical Practice, who died on January 12, 2026.
Predeceased by her father, Tim.
Much-loved wife of Ray (McEvoy), loving mother of Niall, Cathy and Hugh and adored daughter Kitty.
Will be sadly missed by her sisters Doris, Jackie and Siobhan, her sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and her wide circle of friends and colleagues.
May Ita Rest in Peace.
Reposed at her residence, Park Avenue, Maypark Lane, Waterford (X91R5F9) on Wednesday, January 14, from 5pm to 8pm.
Requiem Mass took place in St Joseph’s & Benildud Church, Newtown, Waterford, on Thursday, January 15 at 12pm, followed by burial in St Mary’s Cemetery, Ballygunner, Waterford.
The Rowe Creavin Practice is deeply saddened at the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Dr Ita Creavin, who passed away peacefully.
We send our deepest condolences to her family, and she will be greatly missed by all of us.
She was a wonderful colleague and true friend.
Ita touched so many lives in so many ways.
She will never be forgotten.
May She Rest in Peace.
A Book of Condolences is available for signing.
Catholic Schools Week begins on January 18 and will conclude on January 24.
It celebrates the extraordinary call to holiness in the midst of ordinary life.
Inspired by Pope Francis’s reflection on Saint Carlos Acutis, this year’s theme invites pupils, teachers, families and parishes to explore the call to holiness as something universal and accessible.
Holiness is not for the few, but for all; not reserved for religious professionals or mystics but for every student, teacher, parent (and grandparent!) living each day in friendship with Jesus Christ.
Catholic schools exist to form individuals who know that their lives have a purpose and a calling.
This year’s theme, Normal Lives, Called to Holiness, resonates with the central conviction that education is a path not only to knowledge and maturity but to sainthood.
“Holiness does not mean performing extraordinary things, but doing ordinary things with love and faith! -Pope Francis.
Resources available on: https://catholiceducation.iecatholic-schools-week-2026-catholic-schools-normal-lives-called-to-holiness/.
We’re delighted to be hosting a Sport Inclusion & Disability Awareness Training Session.
This practical and engaging session is all about building confidence, understanding disability, and learning how to include people with disabilities in sport and physical activity.
Monday, February 23 from 6pm-7pm at Waterford City Rugby Club, Ballybeg.
Price €10 per person (+Event fee).
Perfect for coaches, volunteers, club members, teachers and anyone who wants to make sport welcoming for everyone.
Book your place now: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/sports-inclusion-disability-awareness-training-23rd-february-2026-tickets-1979984062631?aff=oddtdtcreator.
A five-week online programme for family carers and supporters of people with mental health challenges.
Explore: self-care, mental health & recovery concepts, boundaries, communication techniques, supports and services.
Dates January 15, 22, 29. February 6 and 12.
Time 10am-12.30pm.
Limited spaces.
Booking essential.
To register email: recoverycollegesoutheast@gmail.com or call 086 1746330.
Congratulations to Sophie White Langford in Transition Year on being selected for the Waterford Minor panel 2026.
Well done! Sophie.
First Year Basketball: Thanks to Saule Gaidelyte (4P) and Kaitlyn Coleman Elliott (4P) for providing the match report: Our first years had an excellent start to the season recently.
They played extremely well and showed great determination in their first-ever game against Colaiste Mhuire, Thurles.
The match resulted in a tie at full time, but they came out on top, scoring four baskets in extra time.
Unfortunately, they suffered a close, tough loss against Colaiste Mhuire Thurles’ second-year students in their second match.
We would like to thank Mr Bonfil and Ms Walshe for organising the match and taking the girls with them.
In Harmony Choir Rehearsal, preparing to join students from across 12 WWETB schools were rehearsing for a collaborative concert in the National Opera House in Wexford.
The choir is conducted by Liam Bates, an award winning composer, arranger and conductor. Thank you to Colasite Abbain for hosting the rehearsal.
For updates on events/series in the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore, go to the web address below for the current issue of Check it Out! https://waterfordlismore.ie/resourcews/
The death has occurred of Joey O’Callaghan, Norwood, Waterford City, Waterford on January 10.
Late of St. John’s Park and Congress Place, Waterford.
Formerly of Waterford Crystal and Founder of Benefica Ladies Soccer.
Predeceased by his mother, Bridget, father Patrick, son Patrick, and brothers Michael and Patrick.
Sadly missed by his loving wife Ann, sons Martin and William, daughter Sharon, daughters-in-law Bretta and Ann-Marie, son-in-law Neil, grandchildren Seanna, Liam, Kyle, brother John, sisters Bridie, Betty and Mary, nephews, nieces, extended family, relatives, neighbours and friends.
May He Rest in Peace.
Reposing at Thompson’s Funeral Home, Barrack Street on Tuesday (January 13) from 7pm to 8.30pm with vigil prayers and Rosary at 8pm.
House private at all times.
Requiem Mass on Wednesday (January 14) in the Sacred Heart Church, The Folly, Waterford, at 10am, followed by burial in Kilbarry Cemetery.
Family flowers only please.
Donations if desired, to the Irish Heart Foundation.
St. Paul’s Best of luck to all involved with Scene & Heard Productions.
We are a community theatre company in Waterford, created to celebrate inclusion, creativity, and the power of storytelling.
Scene & Heard was founded on a simple belief – that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued. On stage. In their community.
In their own story. Our debut production, Up the Deise, is a brand new play about a group of young hurlers with Down Syndrome and other intellectual disabilities chasing their dream of an All-Ireland title.
It’s a story about courage, friendship, belonging, and the unstoppable spirit of Waterford.
We are so excited to begin this journey and to share it with you. Up the Deise Always!
Larry Guinan will be inducted into the Waterford Sports Hall of Fame at the Waterford Sports Awards in association with WLR and the Granville Hotel on Saturday, January 17.
Guinan was part of the last Waterford side to win the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship in 1959, as the Mount Sion man played a starring role in a success not since replicated in the last 66 years.
Larry played for Waterford for 16 years from 1957 to 1973, and scored 12-11 for his county, winning three Munster medals, a National League, and the famed All-Ireland crown.
At the club level, the Mount Sion player won many awards also.
His versatility on the pitch, his leadership qualities and immense talent are among many reasons why he continues to be held in such high regard, and this recognition is befitting of his status as one of Waterford’s all-time sporting greats.
Congratulations Larry!
Celebrating a woman in your life. The Brigid & Me Programme aims to celebrate the unsung heroines we come across in our own lives, ordinary, everyday women who embody wisdom, kindness, compassion, resourcefulness and resilience.
The programme is a community-based initiative that combines craft, storytelling, and celebration.
Make a creative piece to honour your chosen “Brigid”. Write a brief story, or a letter, to capture why you chose your “Brigid”.
Free eight-week course. Starting Monday, January 12, to March 16 from 10am to 12.30pm.
For more information or to register, please contact: Phone: Liz or Yvette on 051 351918/089 455 6184/083 2083568.
Drop In: Mon to Fri from 9-5pm Waterford Women’s Centre, 74 Manor Street, Waterford X91FA02.
