Local Notes: Memorial bench unveiled, community market and souvenir commemorative book
The book on St Anne's Church is now available. Pic: sbfparish.ie
A memorial bench unveiling and dedication ceremony took place in pleasant sunshine in the village green in Stradbally on Sunday, July 21, in honour of the late Fr Jerry Condon.
The bench was formally unveiled by two members of the Tidy Towns committee, Eileen Roche and Tessie Begley. Fr Edmond Cullinan PP was assisted in dedicating the bench on behalf of the Community by Fr Michael Enright, Monsignor Joe Corbett, from Atlanta USA, while Rev Jenny Crowley, represented the Church of Ireland Community in Stradbally.
Following the dedication prayers, Dave McKeon sang 'Slieve na Mban', the Tipperary anthem. Many of Fr Condon's family travelled from Tipperary and Kilkenny for the ceremony while Sr Maureen travelled from Bon Securs, in Cork. Chairman Eddie Fitzgerald thanked Adrian Budds, Youghal, who designed and created the unique bench and planters, for his craft and talent. He also thanked the local engineer Maria Goff and Tom Whelan for helping with the planning of the bench.
He thanked everyone who supported the fundraising efforts, that made the project happen and the Tidy Towns committee for their dedication to the project. Dave McKeon was also acknowledged for fundraising efforts. He thanked Fr Edmond for his advice and help as we worked towards today. Refreshments were served in both Whelan's and the Cove Bar and there was a special surprise of free ice cream cones for all the little ones at Goff's XL to mark this memorable occasion.
All the hours of preparation will finally end this coming weekend when St Anne's Church, Ballylaneen, celebrates its 200th anniversary over the weekend of July 26, 27 and 28.
On Friday, May 26, at 7pm Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Alfonsus Cullinan, with Cardinal Brady and local and past clergy. This will be followed by refreshments and local entertainment in the Ballylaneen Community Centre. On Saturday, July 27, at 5pm Rosary will be led by Fr Michael Enright at the Old Graveyard & St Anne's Well and on Sunday, July 28, at 2pm, there will be a Field Day in Dunphy's Field featuring a vintage car show, a fun day for kids, fancy dress, kids races, BBQ, and sideshows.
Contributions towards the ongoing church restoration works are welcome via Fr Cullinan PP, or the secure link on the Parish website www.sbf.parish.ie
Enquiries can also be made to info@sbf.parish.ie
A souvenir hard back book commemorating the bicentenary of St Anne's Church will be on sale on Friday, July 26 and Sunday, July 28, after Mass.
Read about the man who had the church built in 1824 and the various PP's who undertook other building and renovation projects in the parish down through the years. This hardback book will be available for €12 (cash only).
The market producers will be back on the Square next Saturday from 10am onwards. There will be a great range of fresh fruit and vegetables, homebaking, bread, scones tarts, fancy buns, fresh eggs, jams, relish, juices, local cards and prints. There will also be ample amounts of tea coffee and scones available when you have finished shopping. You can pre-order any of the above by calling Margaret on 087 6337215.
