ARCHIVED NEWS from Fanlobbus Union
Beginning with May/June 2010 (most recent news at top of page)
Updated 24th March 2012
For Diocesan Magazine - March 2012 - notes on Christmas 2011 - February 2012
WHIST DRIVES: remember to check out the pew sheets for the latest on whist drives! Unless otherwise advertised, the third Tuesday will always be a Whist Drive at Cox’s Hall, 9.00pm. Whist drives also at Shandrum Hall, Drinagh, 9.00pm,
first Friday of every month.
CHURCH:
What happened to Christmas!?
Having missed last month’s deadline for the Magazine (many apologies for that!), time for a quick catch-up of the very busy Christmas period that led up to the end of 2011. Good weather was complemented with good attendances at all Christmas services which included:
Dunmanway Community Carols – an ecumenical service with our Catholic and Methodist brethren at St Mary’s, Dunmanway. St Patrick’s Catholic Church provided a lovely choir, and Mr Herbie Parsons kindly acted as organist for the evening.
Fanlobbus Carol Service: welcomed pupils from The Model School who sang for us, and Mr Melvyn Beamish was our organist for this service. Our own small and valiant band of singers also contributed some solo items to the service.
Fanlobbus Crib Service: an encouraging-sized crowd of families and young children attended our Christmas Eve crib service, where we sang Christmas songs, heard the wonderful nativity story – in a slightly different way! – sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to Jesus, and received our own little muffin/birthday cake. Many thanks to Maeve Kingston who assisted with leading the service.
Midnight Communion: another highlight in the calendar, again well attended, and our guest preacher was retired Methodist Presbyter, The Revd Derek Poole, who preached a very interesting sermon.
Watchnight Service: this Methodist-initiated service was held again this year on New Year’s Eve, in Cox’s Hall, complete with supper, prayer and an opportunity to bring in the New Year with God.
Welcome Back to Rhoda Patterson: our regular organist at St Mary’s, Dunmanway was on sick leave for a while, recovering from an operation; so we are delighted to see Rhoda back in church again, on the organ stool, and leading us in our singing!
We thank God for our Diocesan Readers! Sincere thanks are due to David Bourne and Sandra Dukelow for leading Fanlobbus congregations in worship during the Rector’s holiday leave over the New Year Period. It is always a good occasion to welcome visiting Readers to the Union, and their assistance is much valued indeed. Also, of course, to Sam Jennings, Fanlobbus Union Reader who has, throughout the year, provided much appreciated assistance with services and meetings. We are so fortunate in this diocese to have such people generously giving their time in this way.
Back up to date!
St Edmund’s, Coolkelure: We were delighted to have another baptism at St Edmund’s on Sunday morning, 22nd January 2012; when Eoin Justin Timothy received this sacrament, first-born to Lorraine (nee Chambers) and Michael Kenneally, Carrigskullihy, Coolkelure. Please keep this family and all our young families in your prayers.
Select Vestry Meeting: Monday 12th March. 8.30pm Cox’s Hall. This meeting will be to prepare for the Easter Vestry – Tuesday 24th April. The Accounts will also be ratified during this meeting.
Updating the Register of Vestry-Members: if you are currently on this list please ensure your details are correct by checking the Register at back of church (or see your churchwarden). Forms to be included in the list are also available at back of church.
Easter Vestry Notice: this will take place on Tuesday 24th April at 8.00pm in Cox’s Hall. All are welcome to attend, remembering that voting is restricted to membership of the Registered Vestry-members.
Next Union Joint Service: 29th April at St Mary’s, Dunmanway, 11.00am.
CONFIRMATION 2012: the Fanlobbus Union Confirmation Service will take place on Sunday 20th May at 11am, at St Matthew, Drimoleague. The Rt Revd Paul Colton, Bishop of Cork, Cloyne and Ross, will be officiating and preaching. Currently we have six children and one adult candidating for confirmation. Please remember these and their families in your prayers as they prepare to make this important step in life.
Classes for the children will begin on Saturday 24th March at 2.30pm, in the Rectory. Please note that attendance at the Bishop’s Confirmation Day on Saturday 28th April, in Cork, is mandatory. Candidates will also be expected to attend the Teaching Eucharist on 15th April at Drimoleague Church, as this is a part of the confirmation training.
Other Important Church Dates:
Sunday 18th March: Mothering Sunday
Sunday 1st April: Palm Sunday – Holy Week begins.
The Holy Week Services are: Quiet prayer and meditation at 9.00pm – Monday at Drinagh, Tuesday at Drimoleague, and Wednesday at Coolkelure.
Maundy Thursday: 8.30pm – Holy Communion at St Mary, Dunmanway.
Good Friday: 9.00am: Liturgy and Passion of the Cross, St Mary’s, Dunmanway. 8.30pm: Good Friday Union Service, St Mary’s, Dunmanway.
Holy Saturday: 9.00pm. Easter Eve Service with Holy Communion at St Edmund’s, Coolkelure.
Easter Day: Holy Communion at Drinagh, Drimoleague and Dunmanway parish churches. (Times to be confirmed)
An Evening Visiting the Holy Land: a provisional date for your diary is Thursday 22nd March, either Cox’s Hall or the Meeting Room at Dunmanway Community Hospital. Mrs Maisie Culbert will be sharing photographs and experiences of her recent trip to the Holy Land last year. More details in due course.
World Day of Prayer Service: Friday 2nd March, 8.15pm, All Saints Catholic Church, Drimoleague: Speaker – The Revd Willi Nesbitt. Theme: ‘Let Justice Prevail’. Service compiled by the Christian Women of Malaysia. This service is for all people – women and men. It is, in fact, no longer called ‘Women’s World Day of Prayer’. But remains a service which women in different parts of the world have prepared based on their own experiences of life, where they live. These are issues which involve all of us who are interested in how God works and ministers across the world, regardless of sex, gender or race.
COX’S HALL NEWS:
Badminton Club: Cox’s Hall,
Dog Utility Class: will take place on Monday evenings at Cox’s Hall. Contact is Martin Murphy 085 1132199. All dog types are welcome for fun and skills.
Dance Class: with Dierdre O’Sullivan is now in full swing, Tuesdays, 2.30pm.
BAPTISM: 22nd January 2012, at St Edmund’s, Coolkelure, Eoin Justin Timothy Kenneally, son to
DECEMBER NEWS 2011
WHIST DRIVES: remember to check out the pew sheets for the latest on whist drives! Unless otherwise advertised, the third Tuesday will always be a Whist Drive at Cox’s Hall, 9.00pm. Whist drives also at Shandrum Hall, Drinagh, 9.00pm,
first Friday of every month.
CHURCH:
Congratulations to Edward Buckley (Kilbarry) and Pamela Deane (Kilronan) who married on 11th November 2011, at St Mary’s Church, Dunmanway. The deplorable week’s weather took a break on Friday, so we escaped the rain with a dry day, and a packed church enjoyed the ceremony led by The Revd Willi Nesbitt and Fr. Bernard Cotter. The excellent reception was in the West Cork Hotel, Skibbereen.
Baptisms were also in the air, all at St Mary’s church, Dunmanway. Firstly on 23rd October 2011, during Parish Communion for Andrew Guest, second son of David and Elaine Guest (Mohona) baby brother of Simon. And on 6th Nov, during the Service of the Word with Ciara Draper, a second baby daughter for Trevor and Carol Draper (Acres, Drimoleague), sister to Emma. And Adam Deane, firstborn son to Fergus and Ann Deane of Dromleena.
The funeral was held of Patience Fawsitt, Ballyhalwick on Tue 25th Oct at St Mary’s, Dunmanway. Patience died at home with family around her on 21st Oct, and resposed at home until Monday evening when her remains were received into the church. The burial took place at the family grave-site in Ballymoney Churchyard. As a keen huntswoman, she was honoured at the graveside with the ‘Huntsman’s Farewell’ blown on hunting horn; ‘Away’, ‘Gone to Ground’ and ‘Home’. A remarkable woman from one of County Cork’s most notable families was appropriately remembered with large crowds of well-wishers at all the ceremonies. Patience’s large and affectionate family were all gathered and our prayer is that they will receive much consolation from great memories of happy times, with someone they will undoubtedly miss so much.
‘Healing and Wholeness’ at Coolkelure: St Edmund’s, Coolkelure was the venue for this service on Sun 16th Oct at 8.30pm. The Revd Daniel Nuzum – Cork City Hospitals Chaplain – gave an encouraging and much appreciated address on the gift of God’s love to us, freely given, based on the story in the gospels of the woman who anoints Jesus’s feet with costly ointment. The Rector and Daniel both administered prayers for healing with laying on of hands, and anointing.
Dedication at Drinagh: on 23rd Oct at Christ Church, Drinagh during the Parish Communion, it was our privilege to dedicate to the use of God’s worship, a beautiful large silver pyx (communion bread box), linen for the holy table and two lovely large decorative flower stands, in memory of Abie and Louie Jagoe. Family members were present while a prayer of dedication was said and we remembered with affection these faithful departed parishioners who meant so much to our community; and also thanked God for the generosity of the provision of these splendid and practical gifts.
Remembrance of Loved Ones at Drinagh: Christ Church, Drinagh was also the venue for our All Souls’ Service on Sun 30th Oct, in the evening, where, despite the bad foggy weather, a sizeable congregation gathered to offer thanksgiving for the lives of the Departed and remembered them with the simple action of lighting a small candle on the Holy Table. The Rector gave a short address and the readings included scripture and poetry.
Sounding Brass at St Mary’s: In celebration of our recently redecorated church building, we were delighted to host a concert at St Mary’s, Dunmanway on 13th Nov in the evening, with St Nicholas’ Brass Band, playing an excellent stirring programme of mixed music; including Giselle Campbell, solo violinist adding to the variety and enjoyment. Afterwards, all were invited back to Cox’s Hall for a delicious West Cork Tea! The programme notes featured photographs of the church during its recent restoration. It is hoped that we can invite the Band back for another event involving traditional hymn singing.
Church Service and meetings for your diary:
Healer Prayer Group: Rectory, 8.30pm Monday 5th Dec.
St Mary’s Coffe & Cake Sale: Fri 9th Dec, 10.30am: Euro Bar, The Square, Dunmanway.
Ecumenical Community Carol Service: Friday 16th December, 8.00pm at St Mary’s.
Union Carol Service: on Sunday 18th December, St Mary’s Church, Dunmanway at 11am
Crib Service: Christmas Eve at 5pm. Babies, pushchairs, toddlers and children of all ages - from 0 mths to 100 years – welcome!
A fun way to get the kids settled after their tea, ready for bed and Santa’s visit the next morning! Make it your new family tradition.
Midnight Communion: on Saturday 24th December, at St Edmund’s, Coolkelure at 11.30pm. Guest Preacher: The Revd Derek Poole
Christmas Day Communion: 8.30am – Christ Church, Drinagh
9.45am – St Matthew, Drimoleague
11.00am – St Mary, Dunmanway
The Model School - Report
The first part of our school term has flown by with everybody settling in to their new school year routines. Our eight new Junior Infants have settled in very well and we are delighted to get to know them, the new pupils who joined us in other classes and their families.
Congratulations to Scott O'Driscoll and Fiona Beamish who won prizes in the annual Sam Maguire Art Competition.
Declan Murphy from the Just One organisation which works with street children in Nepal came to speak to us and show us slides about his work. This charity is mainly supported by school children in West Cork. We look forward to hearing and seeing the updates Declan brings whenever he is home.
This term we also supported ASHA which works in the slums in Delhi. We had a special connection as one of our teachers, Sarah O'Donnell and her husband John, travelled to India at the end of October and helped refurbishing a Health Centre and Children's Resource Centre as well as spending time with some of the children there. We were very pleased to hold a Cake Sale to raise some funds for them to bring to support this work.
The other charity we are working towards is Team Hope. This is the Christmas Shoebox project which we feel is a fantastic way for children to make a real difference to other young people who are not as well off as themselves.
As well as carefully covering shoeboxes, baking cakes, helping after swimming lessons and all the other jobs for parents this term they have also been helping to sell tickets for our annual fund-raising raffle. The draw will take place at our School Disco which will be held on Fri. 18th Nov. The school children just can't wait and we all wish to thank those who bought tickets and those who helped selling.
Following this excitement there will just be time to draw breath before the Christmas activities begin, Concert, Carol Singing, Party and Carol Service. All are welcome to join us for these festivities!
DUNMANWAY COMMUNITY CAROL SERVICE: started last year as an ecumenical venture between Methodists, Catholics and Anglicans and was held in St Patrick’s Church in Dunmanway. This year it is the turn of St Mary’s. All are welcome to this carol service which follows the journey of Christ through scripture to the manger.
Friday 16th December 2011
St Mary’s Church
8.00pm
Dunmanway Community Carol Service
Let everyone know!
Confirmation Classes: we hope to start these soon into the New Year, and currently have about five children registered. Children of year 5 & 6 national school age, and above, are welcome. And adults, too. Please contact the Rector on 023 8845151. Also, if you are just interested to find out more about matters of faith, ministry or spirituality – no strings attached! – contact the Rector on that number.
COX’S HALL NEWS:
Badminton Club: Return on Thursdays, at Cox’s Hall,
Dog Utility Class: will take place on Monday evenings at Cox’s Hall. Contact is Martin Murphy 085 1132199. All dog types are welcome for fun and skills.
Dance Class: with Dierdre O’Sullivan is now in full swing, Tuesdays, 2.30pm.
Occasional Offices:
MARRIAGE: 11th November 2011, St Mary, Dunmanway, Pamela Deane and Edward Buckley.
BAPTISM: 23rd October 2011, at St Mary’s, Dunmanway, Andrew Guest, son to Elaine and David Guest.
6th November 2011, at St Mary’s, Dunmanway, Adam Deane, son to Fergus and Ann Deane.
6th November 2011, at St Mary’s, Dunmanway, Ciara Draper, daughter to Carol and Trevor Draper.
BURIAL: 25th October 2011, at Ballymoney Churchyard, Patience Fawsitt.
CHURCH:
WEDDING BELLS were metaphorically ringing for June nee Kingston and Richard Doolan, when they tied the knot at St Matthew’s, Drimoleague on Thursday 6th October. Sharp showers greeted the guests on their way into church, where a lovely service was held to solemnize their marriage. But on exiting the church the sun had come out. The reception was held at the West Cork Hotel, were the photographs were also taken featuring a vintage Ford 1000 (apologies if I’ve got the serial number wrong!); clearly a popular choice. A fine meal at the hotel was enhanced by good speeches, particularly of the before unsuspected talent of Sydney Kingston (father of the bride) in that direction. May God grant many blessings to this lovely couple and many happy years together in the love they share in His name.
Church Service and meetings for your diary:
Select Vestry Meeting: on Monday 21st November, in Cox’s Hall, Dunmanway at 8.30pm.
Union Carol Service: on Sunday 18th December, St Mary’s Church, Dunmanway at 11am
Crib Service: Christmas Eve at 5pm. Babies, pushchairs, toddlers and children of all ages - from 0 mths to 100 years – welcome!
A fun way to get the kids settled after their tea, ready for bed and Santa’s visit the next morning!
Midnight Communion: on Saturday 24th December, at St Edmund’s, Coolkelure at 11.30pm. Guest Preacher: The Revd Derek Poole
Christmas Day Communion: 8.30am – Christ Church, Drinagh
9.45am – St Matthew, Drimoleague
11.00am – St Mary, Dunmanway
THANKS FOR THE HARVEST: our Union harvest services this year were at Cox’s Hall (St Mary’s being re-painted at that time) and St Matthew’s, Drimoleague. Many thanks to everyone who got the buildings ready with sweeping and cleaning and decorations of fruit and vegetables and flowers; the atmosphere was very festive indeed. Thank you, too, to Sam Jennings, our Diocesan Reader, who preached at the second service for us. We’re very blessed to have Sam in our parish. Our collections went to Tear Fund and also the Bishops’ Appeal for this year. The food and flowers from the services were donated to Dunmanway Community Hospital. Thank you all for your generosity.
MAKING ALL THINGS NEW? Almost! In recent weeks both St Matthew, Drimoleague and St Mary’s, Dunmanway have undergone an extreme makeover with interior re-painting (photo of St Mary’s), and in some areas re-plastering. Drimoleague Church has also tarmacked and curbed their driveway which is now looking very neat and smart. St Mary’s additionally repaired and re-plastered the road-side wall, which also looks as good as new compared to its former condition. Both buildings are warm and freshly painted, looking bright and welcoming. Thank you to all those who cleaned up after the decorators, who to be fair were very careful about minimizing any mess or dust. And thank you, too, to the St Mary’s churchwardens and their helpers for putting out chairs week by week at Cox’s Hall and tidying everything away again after service. However, please remember the lovely feeling we had of being together in our fellowship at Cox’s Hall and let’s try to hang on to that feeling as we return to the bigger building of the Church!
NOTICE OF ST MARY’S, DUNMANWAY Concert
St Nicholas’ Brass Band Concert
7.30pm
13th November 2011
St Mary’s Church, Dunmanway
Put it in your diary now, for a great musical night out!
Tickets: €10.00 for adults and €2.50 for children. Available soon from Kingston’s Costcutters in Dunmanway. Or enquire on: 023 8845151
DUNMANWAY COMMUNITY CAROL SERVICE: started last year as an ecumenical venture between Methodists, Catholics and Anglicans and was held in St Patrick’s Church in Dunmanway. This year it is the turn of St Mary’s. All are welcome to this carol service which follows the journey of Christ through scripture to the manger.
Friday 16th December 2011
St Mary’s Church
8.00pm
Dunmanway Community Carol Service
Let everyone know!
Confirmation Classes: we hope to start these soon into the New Year, and currently have about five children registered. Children of year 5 & 6 national school age, and above, are welcome. And adults, too. Please contact the Rector on 023 8845151. Also, if you are just interested to find out more about matters of faith, ministry or spirituality – no strings attached! – contact the Rector on that number.
COMMUNITY:
The Friends of Dunmanway Community Hospital: are holding a special China Tea Event in Cox’s Hall from Thursday 24th to Saturday 26th November. Tea and Cakes will be served on collectable antique china tea-sets, many of which will be on display for viewing, from noon to about four in the afternoon. Funds to go to the Hospital. This unusual and tempting idea sounds well worth a visit! Price is: €12.00 per head.
COX’S HALL NEWS:
Badminton Club: Return on Thursdays, at Cox’s Hall,
Dog Utility Class: will take place on Monday evenings at Cox’s Hall. Contact is Martin Murphy 085 1132199. All dog types are welcome for fun and skills.
Dance Class: with Dierdre O’Sullivan is now in full swing, Tuesdays, 2.30pm.
WHIST DRIVES: remember to check out the pew sheets for the latest on whist drives and tea dances! Unless otherwise advertised, the third Tuesday will always be a Whist Drive at Cox’s Hall, 9.00pm. Whist drives also at Shandrum Hall, Drinagh, 9.00pm, first Friday of every month.
Church Services for your diary:
‘1st Sunday Service’: we hope to resume this from the first Sunday in September at St Mary’s, Dunmanway. The Rector will be enlisting your assistance again for this relaxed, family-friendly service. Ideas for music, drama, talks very Welcome! Families with young children, even babies, particularly encouraged to come along. Part of the reason for this service is to help you in the fulfilment of godparental duties, in as friendly and accessible a way as possible, to encourage all our children to become regular church attenders and meet with God in worship.
Select Vestry Meeting: on Monday 3rd October, in Cox’s Hall at 8.30pm.
Union Harvest Services: 25th September, St Mary’s, Dunmanway, 11am.
2nd October, St Matthew’s, Drimoleague, 11am.
Healing and Wholeness Service: 16th October, 8.30pm – St Edmund, Coolkelure, Daniel Nuzum, preacher.
Thanksgiving for the Departed: 30th October, 8.30pm – Christ Church, Drinagh.
Union Joint Service: 30th October, St Matthew, Drimoleague, 11am.
NOTICE OF ST MARY’S, DUNMANWAY fundraiser:
St Nicholas’ Brass Band Concert
13th November 2011
St Mary’s Church, Dunmanway
7.30pm Put it in your diary now, for a great musical night out!
Confirmation Classes: we hope to start these soon into the New Year, and currently have about five children registered. Children of year 5 & 6 national school age, and above, are welcome. And adults, too. Please contact the Rector on 023 8845151. Also, if you are just interested to find out more about matters of faith, ministry or spirituality – no strings attached! – contact the Rector on that number.
COMMUNITY:
COX’S HALL NEWS:
Badminton Club: Return on Mondays and Thursdays, at Cox’s Hall, Sackville Street, Dunmanway. Contact Anne Sweetnam on No: 087 9002142.
Dog Utility Class: will take place on Monday evenings at Cox’s Hall. Contact is Martin Murphy 085 1132199. All dog types are welcome for fun and skills.
Dance Class: with Dierdre O’Sullivan has begun, Tuesdays, 2.30pm.
Congratulations! Sunday 11th Sept, we enjoyed a lovely service of the Eucharist which included the happy occasion of the baptism of Niamh, daughter to Henry and Carmel Sweetnam of Dromleena, Dunmanway. Niamh also has a ‘big’ brother, Tom, 2 years old. May God bless Niamh and her family, as they continue in their journey with Christ through family life together.
News from Late Summer 2011
WHIST DRIVES: remember to check out the pew sheets for the latest on whist drives and tea dances! Unless otherwise advertised, the third Tuesday will always be a Whist Drive at Cox’s Hall, 9.00pm. Please note: Whist drives resume at Shandrum Hall, Drinagh, 9.00pm, first Friday of every month. 
CHURCH:
Sincere apologies are offered for getting family details wrong in reference to Mrs Helena Forbes, Cloddagh, Drimoleague, who sadly died recently. These details should have read: daughters: Moira, Audrey and Amanda; sons-in-law Robert, Jervis and Edwin, and grand-daughter Orla. Once again, our prayers and thoughts go to Helena’s family at this sad time, and the Rector apologises for any distress caused by misquoting the information.
Church Services for your diary:
‘1st Sunday Service’: we hope to resume this from the first Sunday in September at St Mary’s, Dunmanway. The Rector will be enlisting your assistance again for this relaxed, family-friendly service. Ideas for music, drama, talks very Welcome! Families with young children, even babies, particularly encouraged to come along. Part of the reason for this service is to help you in the fulfilment of godparental duties, in as friendly and accessible a way as possible, to encourage all our children to become regular church attenders and meet with God in worship.
Union Harvest Services: 25th September, St Mary’s, Dunmanway, 11am.
2nd October, St Matthew’s, Drimoleague, 11am.
(Guest Preacher for one of these services will be The Revd Brian O’Reilly)
Healing and Wholeness Service: 16th October, 8.30pm – venue to be arranged.
Thanksgiving for the Departed: 30th October, 8.30pm – venue to be arranged.
Union Joint Service: 30th October, St Matthew, Drimoleague, 11am.
ADVANCE NOTICE OF ST MARY’S, DUNMANWAY fundraiser:
St Nicholas’ Brass Band Concert
13th November 2011
St Mary’s Church, Dunmanway
Time to be arranged.
Put it in your diary now, for a great musical night out!
COX’S HALL NEWS:
Badminton Club: Return on Mondays and Thursdays, at Cox’s Hall, Sackville Street, Dunmanway. Contact Anne Sweetnam on No: 087 9002142.
20th June 2011: Mr Arthur Jennings of Derraugh, Coolkelure. Arthur died peacefully, surrounded by his family at Dunmanway Community Hospital; and his funeral and interment took place on 22nd June, at St Edmund’s church, Coolkelure. Chief of those who are in our thoughts and prayers, we think of Arthur’s wife of 54 years, Hester, who will have known him better than anyone else. And his surviving sister, Bella. Also his children, Irene, Kathleen, Eleanor, Valerie, Edward and Helen, his grandchildren: Richard, Maeve, Alwyn, Katriona, Kenneth, William, Mark, Sandra, Hazel, Fiona, Aisling, Nathan, Shanice, Killian, Richelle, Onya and Ray, and his great-grandchild: Aiofe. It’s appropriate, too, to recall Hester and Arthur’s other two children, Mervyn and William who sadly died some while since, but who are still thought of and remembered among the family circle.
17th July 2011: Also, at St Mary’s, the baptism of Euan Donald Peteranna, son of Donald and Andrea Peteranna (nee Kingston). Soon to settle in Wimbledon, London, the family celebrated the baptism while with family in Kilronan. God bless both families in their duties and responsibilities in bringing up their children in the faith of Christ.
News from Summer 2011
CHURCH: 
Diocesan Synod: the Fanlobbus Union Diocesan Synod representatives travelled to the Charleville Park Hotel on Saturday 11th June, for what turned out to be an interesting and informative event. Attendees were Elizabeth Stout, Edwin Jennings, George Wilson, Willi Nesbitt, Jean Kingston, Maisie Culbert, Dorothy Beamish and Kathleen Kingston. Amongst the more usual business of the meeting, heartfelt exchanges were made in debate on the subject of the Anglican Covenant – recently affirmed by the Church of Ireland as an instrument of unity – and the issue of pastoral and liturgical care for gay and lesbian people. As always it was a good time to catch up with people from other Unions about the Diocese, say ‘hello’ to many old friends, enjoy a good meal, and be updated in the running of the Diocese itself. Congratulations to the Diocesan Office staff and the Bishop for their exemplary organization for this hard-working day. And many thanks to our own Fanlobbus reps for giving a day up to this important work. Your commitment is much appreciated!
SONGS OF PRAISE: on the 5th Sunday of May, our St Mary’s, Dunmanway organist was worked very hard during a wide-ranging and very enjoyable Songs of Praise service, a Union Joint Service. The theme was ‘Through the years with God’, with a choice of hymns based not only on favourites submitted by parishioners, but illustrative of how God helps us through every aspect of our lives. eg, ‘Father, I place into your hands’ described our need to let God help us during the struggles of life; ‘Shall we gather at the river’ reminded us of our sad bereavements, but the great promise of Resurrection life and reunion. Our Diocesan Reader, Sam Jennings led the event, and we were delighted with the visit from Sarah Howarth’s class from the Model School to sing an action song. Thank you to Rhoda Patterson, our organist, Sam Jennings for his leading of the service and Sarah and ‘her’ children. But thank you, too, to all of you who turned up and had a grand old sing! As Augustine of Hippo said: those who sing, pray twice!
Summer Church Services:
A note to remind our St Edmund, Coolkelure, churchgoers that in June, July and August, the fourth Sunday service will be held at 11am NOT 12.15pm. Our Diocesan Reader, Sam Jennings will be the minister for those services, so many thanks to Sam for his generous assistance.
COMMUNITY:
COX’S HALL NEWS:
Tennis/Badminton Club: children aged 7th years upwards can meet on Thursdays from 6pm-7.30pm. Teenagers: 7.30pm to 8.30pm, also Thursday. At Cox’s Hall, Sackville Street, Dunmanway. Contact No: 087 9002142.
SCHOOL NEWS:
The Dunmanway Model School's final busy term is well underway with a lot of events taking place.
Charity Giving - We held a no-uniform day in aid of Chernobyl Childrens Trust which raised €117 and our annual Shades for a Day raised €110 for the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. The middle classroom initiated a Copper Coin Challenge and this raised €120 which we will combine with our weekly Assembly collection and share between The Malawi Orphan Appeal and Just One Appeal for Nepal.
Those who qualified attended Cork Primary School Sports on 13th May and we must congratulate all our competitors. The boys began this year and Richard Combrinck, Jake Pinkham and Nathan Kingston won prizes in their races. The boys' relay team of Richard Combrinck, Seán Hudson, Aaron Deane and Jake Pinkham came first! Then it was the girls' turn, Maeve Kingston came first in her race qualifying for the county final. Alanna O'Driscoll, Niamh Hudson, Anna Deane and Elvie Deane also won prizes. The girls relay team of Maeve Kingston, Zoe Deane, Alanna O'Driscoll and Fiona Beamish won their relay and the girls also won the Overall Cup for the school! Well done on all these achievements!
To continue with Sporting activities the Senior Classes took part in a Rugby blitz and plan to participate in a Hockey blitz also. We will have our annual School Sports at the Sam Maguire Pitch and a non-competitive Fun Day in school to welcome our prospective new pupils for September. Our swimming lessons will culminate with our Swimming Gala on June 28th.
Rev. Nesbitt organised a wonderful Songs of Praise service in St. Mary's Church on May 29th and our middle classes' teacher Sarah Haworth led a Model School contingency singing "Great, great, brill, brill", a most energetic song with lots of actions!
Our school tour is planned for 21st June to the Lets Go Camp in Cork. Mrs. Hosford is also taking her 5th and 6th classes on a Geography trip to Manch forest.
Finally we would like to congratulate Maeve Kingston and Zoe Deane on winning scholarships to Bandon Grammar School and we wish all our departing 6th class pupils well in their new secondary schools and in all their future endeavours.
We at The Model School wish you all a safe, sunny and enjoyable summer!
Occasional Offices: We offer our prayers to the Ross family at Droumdrastil on the loss of Noel, husband to Bernie, and father to William, Martin, Peter, Brendan, Maura, Mary and Eddie; granddad to Adam and Lee, all of whom will miss him so much. (Funeral was at Coolkelure Parish, 25th May)
We were also much saddened to hear of the accident and shortly afterwards the death of Mrs Helena Forbes of Clodagh, a regular churchgoer at Drimoleague, St Matthew's Church (funeral was on Sat 28th May). Also much missed by daughters Myra, Audrey and Amanda, and their partners.
Sympathy is extended, too, to the family and friends of Robert (Bobby) Deane of Inchydoney, who died recently and was interred at St Mary's, Dunmanway, where his funeral also was held (Wed 1st June).
May God offer all the bereaved his love and strength and the consolation of the Risen Christ.
In June we enjoyed a happier occasion at St Mary’s Church, Dunmanway, on Friday 3rd, when Rosarie Deane married Timothy McCarthy. We wish the couple well in their new life together as a married couple and ask God to bless and keep them.
BURIAL: Mary Hegarty, 5th May 2011, at St Mary’s, Cemetery, Dunmanway.
Noel Ross, Wednesday 25th May 2011, at St Finbarr’s Cemetery, Dunmanway.
Helena Forbes, Saturday 28th May 2011, at St Matthew’s Churchyard, Drimoleague.
Robert (Bobby) Deane, Wednesday 1st June 2011, at St Mary’s Churchyard, Dunmanway.
DIARY DATES:
WHIST DRIVES: remember to check out the pew sheets for the latest on whist drives and tea dances! Unless otherwise advertised, the third Tuesday will always be a Whist Drive at Cox’s Hall, Dunmanway, 9.00pm. Please note: Whist drives at Shandrum Hall, Drinagh, have ceased now the summer.
CHURCH:
Children’s Summer Club: the Cork Diocesan Youth Council will be running a children’s activity week in Cox’s Hall from Monday 11th to Friday 15th July. Look out for more information on this in the weeks leading up to those dates! Liz Patterson, Milane, (087 9489450) is looking for help, please with the week. Also, she'd welcome gathering craft materials eg, small empty cereal boxes, pringles tubs, yoghurt pots, and kitchen roll inners.
From Spring/Early Summer 2011
COMMUNITY:
It was also a great pleasure to welcome Susan, Lucinda and Kathleen again the following morning at church in St Mary’s Dunmanway, where they inspected the silver chalice, dated 1795, inscribed as a gift from Patrick Cox, Bt; and also the large and impressive family memorial in the side chapel.
Summer Services:
A note in advance to remind our St Edmund, Coolkelure, churchgoers that in June, July and August, the fourth Sunday service will be held at 11am NOT 12.15pm. Our Diocesan Reader, Sam Jennings will be the minister for those services, so many thanks to Sam for his generous assistance.
‘1st Sunday Service’ will take a break over the summer months of July and August, to give those who normally assist at these a bit of a rest! We will resume Morning Prayer on those Sundays.
We also offer our prayers to the Ross family at Droumdrastil on the loss of Noel, husband to Bernie, and father to William, Martin, Peter, Brendan, Maura, Mary and Eddie; granddad to Adam and Lee, all of whom will miss him so much. (Coolkelure Parish)
We were also much saddened to hear of the accident and shortly afterwards the death of Mrs Helena Forbes of Clodagh, a regular churchgoer at Drimoleague, St Matthew's Church. Also much missed by daughters Orla, Audrey and Amanda and sons in law, Jervis and Edwin.
Sympathy is extended, too, to the family and friends of Robert (Bobby) Deane of Inchydoney, who died recently and was interred at St Mary's, Dunmanway, where his funeral also was held.
May God offer all the bereaved his love and strength and the consolation of the Risen Christ.
In June we enjoyed a happier occasion at St Mary’s Church, Dunmanway, on Friday 3rd, when Rosarie Deane married Timothy McCarthy. We wish the couple well in their new life together as a married couple and ask God to bless and keep them.
ARCHIVE NEWS FROM WINTER/EARLY SPRING 2011
Happy New Year from all at The Model School. Despite difficulties for pupils and staff to get to school some days due to snow and ice, we managed to fulfill all of our annual Christmas activities. Our first mention of Christmas was back at Hallowe'en time when we began wrapping and filling shoe boxes for the charity Team Hope. We produced 57 boxes to send to children who may not get any other presents for Christmas. We are very grateful for the support the parents of our school give to this venture each year as it is such a worthwhile activity for both the givers and the receivers. 
The school community also worked very hard at selling tickets, collecting prizes and organising a wonderful Disco for the pupils on the night of the raffle. Well done to all involved and congratulations to the many prize winners. On our Carol Singing day the Senior pupils went to Dunmanway Hospital and Day Care Centre and the Junior classes went to entertain the inhabitants of Fairfield Nursing Home in Drimoleague.
Our school Carol Service was on Friday 17th Dec. From our collection this day we were able to send €100 to Christian Aid and €100 towards the Special Olympics.
Some of our pupils also attended the parish Carol Service in St. Mary's Church on Dec.19th, where they sang and Bibles were presented to last year's Sixth Class pupils who have now gone their separate ways to Secondary schools. We were very proud to have a visit from The Sam Maguire Cup (back to Sam's own Primary School). It was accompanied by some players from the Cork team and members of the local GAA club. A very inspiring morning for all our sports enthusiasts who would like to follow in this past pupil's footsteps!
Our Christmas celebrations in school culminated with our annual party day on which we had a film, a fancy dress parade, prize-giving and a visit from a very important man in red! Ho! Ho! Ho! What a busy and enjoyable term!
St Matthew, Drimoleague
CONGRATULATIONS TO: Shirley (nee Deane) of Acres and Peter Dunican of Castletown, Co Offally, who got married in St Matthew’s, Drimoleague on Saturday 1st January 2011. Shirley and Peter may be interested to know that their wedding was No 1. on the first page of the first volume of the Book of Marriages! The ceremony was lovely, blessed by great weather, followed by an excellent meal in Dunmore House Hotel, Clonakilty. We wish them every one of God’s blessings for their new life together.
CONDOLENCES TO: the family and friends of Robert ‘Fred’ Kingston who died on 31st December 2010, and was buried on Sunday 2nd January 2011 at St Mary’s. Fred had lived at Fairfield Nursing Home, Drimoleague, for about 16 years and while sometimes in ailing health was renowned for his love of walks and getting out into the fresh air, with his signature baseball caps for protection against the elements. He was well liked and now much missed by the staff at Fairfield; and we offer our sympathy to Fred’s siblings and other family members and friends. Many thanks to Canon Paul Willoughby for organizing and taking this funeral.
Condolences also go to Shirley Deane (nee Levis) of Garrybawn, and her family, who suffered the sudden death of her mother, Mary Levis of Manch, Ballineen, in recent days. Our prayers and best wishes go out to Shirley and other family members on this very unexpected and terribly sad occasion.
CHRISTMAS FALL-OUT: despite the extremity of the weather we had only one service cancelled, all others going ahead as planned. An impressive crowd turned up at Midnight Communion on Christmas Eve at St Edmund’s, Coolkelure; where the sermon was ‘saved’ when an appeal to take over from a near-expiring Rector crippled by a coughing-fit, was taken up. Thank you to Ruth Deane for that; and also to all our singers and musicians for making that service so special. Indeed, a general and very sincere thank-you to all our organists and music-people for extra duties performed over the festive period and being there for the worship! It’s very much appreciated.
A New Year’s Eve Watchnight Service was held in Cox’s Hall, beginning at 10pm with a delicious supper of soup and home-baked cakes. Hymns were sung and prayers and scripture brought us cheerfully into the new year, led by The Revd Daphne Twinem, Methodist minister.
Staff and residents at FAIRFIELD NURSING HOME: enjoyed a recent afternoon of worship, hymn-singing - and a few folk numbers! - on Wednesday 13th January. Something we hope will become a monthly fixture. Prayers were led by Willi Nesbitt and Norma Wilson played keyboard and many joined in and sang along.
NEWS FROM NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010
COMMEMORATION OF THE DEPARTED: this service took place on 21st Nov, 2010, in St Mary's, Dunmanway at 8pm. We remembered with thanksgiving the lives of those we continue to love, who have died. As a symbol of this congregation members lit tea-light candles from the Easter Candle and placed them on the altar. In this way, we en-acted the placing of our loved ones' lives into God's mercy and love, while looking forward to the fulfilment of the promise in Christ that 'all shall be made alive'.
GOING TO THE DOGS: On Thursday 11th November, a coachload of Union parishioners (52 people) travelled to Curraheen Dog Racing Stadium for a very enjoyable social event. We enjoyed a lovely meal, chosen from a tasty and varied menu, while overlooking the track, watching the evening's racing. It's possible a few loyal and hopeful bets were put on a dog in the first race from Dunmanway - but sadly victory was not to be: but Shandrum Star in another race, romped home to a good win! Not that there was any competitiveness between Union punters, of course! It was the first time for many at 'the dogs', and the whole evening was extremely enjoyable. Thank you to Susan Salter, in particular, for organizing this successful and fun evening. 
Racing dogs (gambling aside) is controversial. If owners and trainers can be continually encouraged and enabled by the industry's regulative authorities the stories of abuse the public hear of so regularly can be reduced and reduced until responsible and humane rehoming of dogs bred and retired from racing is accepted as the norm. Conditions have improved greatly in recent times, but there is still a way to go.
If you are interested in supporting or finding out more about what happens to these beautiful racing dogs when they stop running click http://www.igb.ie/Welfare_/Greyhounds-as-Pets/2666/ or 'google' any of the numerous sites there are on 'greyhound rescue' or 'greyhound rehoming'.
DUNMANWAY COMMUNITY HOSPITAL ALL SOULS SERVICE: On Friday 12th November at the Hospital in Ballyhalwick, Dunmanway a packed service was held in the chapel commemorating those who had died in the past twelve months. From our own Parish Union we remembered with thanksgiving the lives of: Bertie Deane, Tossie Kingston, Phyllis Beamish and Mary Kingston. The service was jointly taken by Father Ted Collins and The Revd Willi Nesbitt; and readings and prayers taken by staff members. Votive lights were lit in remembrance of those who had died, and families were invited to receive a single red rose as a keepsake of their loved one at the end of the service. After the service, an excellent home-baked tea was served in the day-room. Thank you to Matron Cathrine White and her staff for facilitating this event and providing the refreshments and to Father Collins for organizing the service.
NEWS FROM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010
SCHOOL NEWS: The Model School, Dunmanway, is enjoying being a three-class school again, with new teacher, Sarah Howarth settling in very well indeed. The event, ‘Celebrating Age’ in early October gave some pupils an opportunity to visit Dunmanway Community Hospital, where they helped to lead a lively sing-along with many of the residents. Some of the residents themselves led the way in offering songs and the children showed off their skills on the chime bars! They were ‘rewarded’ well with juice and crisps. The interaction between the younger and the older members of our community, as an example of how different ages can mix and enjoy each other’s company in this way, was cheerful and great fun. Many thanks to Matron Catherine White and head-teacher Sharon Hosford for their organization of this.
CHURCH NEWS:
Weddings: Congratulations to: Helen Patterson and John Malone who were married at St Edmund’s, Coolkelure, on Saturday 25th September. Also, married that day at St Mary’s, Dunmanway were Karen Nixon and Brian Murphy. May God grant these couples, and those who have been joined in matrimony over the summer, to be truly blessed by a joyful and lifelong marriage. SPECIAL SERVICES:
HARVEST: 3rd October: St Edmund, Coolkelure. The Revd Stephen McCann from Ballydehob Union was our guest preacher for this service and the congregation very much appreciated his presence with us and his address which was lively and thought-provoking. The Rector preached at the previous week’s Harvest service, at Christ Church, Drinagh. At both services a delicious harvest tea was served and very much enjoyed, and the churches themselves were beautifully decorated. Undoubtedly, the appearance of the churches gave us all a great feeling of true celebration and thanksgiving for a harvest safely gathered in! Thank you to those who gave their time and effort to providing tea and dressing up the buildings, and enhancing our worship in such a lovely way.
SERVICE OF HEALING & WHOLENESS: Sunday 10th October, St Mary’s Church, Dunmanway. Prayer and Laying on of Hands, with anointing led by our Healer Prayer Group. This service was relaxed and gentle and all who attended participated in the prayer and anointing, which was administered by Willi Nesbitt, The Revd Daphne Twinem, the new Methodist minister, and Sam Jennings our Diocesan Reader. Members of the Healer Prayer Group shared some items of prayerful interest with us. Afterwards, tea and refreshments were enjoyed by everybody. The general feedback from this seemed to be that this was a positive and worthwhile experience, and it’s hoped that we will hold another service like this, perhaps in some months’ time. Thank you to those who provided tea and eatables!
JULY/AUGUST 2010 NEWS
Healer Prayer Group: Meeting in the Rectory at 8.30pm on Monday 16th August. (Photo attached of some of the members.) Our usual format is to pray for those who have asked to be remembered in prayer for healing, to pray for the work of the Healer Prayer Unions across the Church of Ireland. For our ‘input’ we often look at one of the Bible lessons for the up-coming Sunday and discuss it. Members can take it in turn, if they wish, to lead us in prayer, which means we have a good variety of prayer happening. A small monthly fee/gift is given by each member towards the work of the Healer Prayer Unions, and we were pleased to be able to give €240 to this work from last year’s subscriptions. Please contact our leader, Doris Deane, if you wish to find out more: 023 8855116.
BISHOPS' APPEAL - WATER OF LIFE PROJECT 2010 This year's Appeal is to support the work of Fields of Life, SAFE and The Leprosy Mission, to bring clean water to communities in East Africa, Afghanistan and other places where the lack of water is part of life in poverty. God's promise to his people is to bring them into a good land, a land of abundant water. One third of all income not designated for a specific purpose will be divided equally between these three projects. For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land - a land with streams and pools of water. (Deuteronomy 8:7) Did you know?
What does the Bible say? I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. (Matthew 25:35) Can you help? Donations can be made through parishes in Bishops' Appeal envelopes or sent to: Church of Ireland Bishops' Appeal Church of Ireland House Church Avenue Rathmines, Dublin 6, Ireland When sending donations direct to Bishops' Appeal please make cheque (euro or sterling) payable to 'Church of Ireland Bishops' Appeal'. Taxpayers in the United Kingdom can give more help by gift aiding. PAYE taxpayers in the Republic of Ireland can increase the benefit of their gift when donating €250 or more. The project will send a declaration form at the end of the tax year. Donations can also be made by CREDIT TRANSFER: Church of Ireland Bishops' Appeal Bank of Ireland College Green Sort Code: 90 00 17 Account no: 10053114 for euros Charity no: CHY8026 (ROI) MAY/JUNE 2010 NEWS  CONFIRMATION 2010: : Aisling, James, Maeve, Niall, Zoe, Ray, Charlotte, Amelia, and Adele were all confirmed by The Rt Revd Paul Colton, Bishop of Cork, Cloyne & Ross on the day of Pentecost, 23rd May, at St Mary, Dunmanway. The weather was absolutely glorious, the church almost full, and the whole service went very enjoyably for everybody. Some of the younger confirmands read the lessons, brought up the elements for communion and undertook the collection of money gifts; and the Bishop's sermon reflecting both the theme of Confirmation and the interesting challenge Luke the Apostle had in describing the events of that first Pentecost was much appreciated. We thought it was so appropriate to celebrate our confirmation on the day when the Church celebrates its 'birthday' with the original arrival of the Holy Spirit among the early saints of the Church. Many thanks to all who prepared the church building for the service with cleaning up and offering flowers, and for those who helped with the service sheets. |
DUNMANWAY COMMUNITY COUNCIL OPENS NEW OFFICES On 16th July 2010, Dunmanway Community Council opened its new offices on the Main Street. The ribbon was cut by Councillor Jim Daly, a Drinagh man, and Mayor of the County of Cork. Speeches were given by Denis Collins, Chairperson of the Council, Theresa White, Assistant County Manager and Cllr. Jim Daly. 'Dunmanway Community Council is the finest example of democracy at work, where we see a community getting together to elect a community council to promote the welfare of the entire community”; so said Councillor Jim Daly. “It is local people who are best to determine the needs of their community. They are very effective when they are made up of local people working together for the benefit of their own area”. Prayers were offered by The Revd Willi Nesbitt and Canon Fr. Ted Collins blessed the newly refurbished building. The Community Council are involved with many of the projects and work plans which seek to re-invigorate our town and area: the Tidy Towns Programme, Dunmanway Youth Cafe, St Patrick's Day parade, the Christmas lights, Sam Maguire festival and much more. You'll find a full explanation of what they do and how to get involved at www.dunmanway.ie .  Healer Prayer Group - Fanlobbus Union |
 | DIOCESAN SYNOD: This took place at the Rochestown Park Hotel on Saturday 12th June, where a comprehensive overview of activity and reports across the Diocese were given to Synod members. Fanlobbus Union was amply represented (photo taken by Willi Nesbitt) and all who attended felt that it had been a useful and interesting day. No doubt a more thorough précis of what occurred will be printed in the Diocesan magazine at some stage. |
CO-ACTION/NSE CHILDRENS SERVICES CENTRE FOR WEST CORK: On 14th May, this brand new resource centre for learning disabled and physically disabled children in the West Cork area was opened by Foreign Affairs Minister, Micheál Martin. Co-action charity had raised the impressive sum of €800,000 to help its funding, and the Sisters of Mercy donated the site on which the centre has been built. The centre is located on St Mary's Road, Dunmanway, and is a beautiful modern construction fully equipped for the therapeutic and teaching needs of children and young people with special needs. Once again, local clergy Father Collins and Revd Willi Nesbitt were there to offer the blessing. Afterwards a wonderful tea was enjoyed by the large crowd, who also had an opportunity to tour the buildings to admire the new facilities.
