6th December

2009 Second Sunday of Advent

Assumption, The HeathAssumption, The HeathAssumption, The HeathAssumption, The Heath

Scoil Bhrid, Knockmay

Saturday: 6:15pm

Parish Church

Saturday: 7:30pm

Sunday: 8:30am

10:00am, 11:15am &

12:30pm

Daily Mass Parish Church

7.30am & 10am. Parish Radio 106.5fm

Holy Cross, RatheniskaHoly Cross, RatheniskaHoly Cross, RatheniskaHoly Cross, Ratheniska

Sunday 10am

Sunday 9:30am

Sunday Masses

St. Peter & Paul’s Church

Portlaoise Parish

www.portlaoiseparish.ie

Diocesan Website: www.kandle.ie

Priests of the Parish

Msgr. John Byrne P.P.

057 8692153

Fr. Paul Fitzpatrick C.C.

057 8621671

Fr. Joe O’Neill C.C.

057 8661139

Fr. Kevin Walsh C.C.

057 8661605

Fr. Peter Uzochukwu C.C.

057 8622301

Fr. Tom O’Connor P.E.

(Parish Chaplain)

Sue Ryder, Kilminchy

Priest on Duty

057 8621364

Who Wants To Stay Stuck In A Rut? If we all managed to change for the better, then

the world would be a better place …. so why don’t

we?

In today’s Gospel John the Baptist tells us “Prepare

the way of the Lord. Make his paths straight.”

In simple terms we have to remove the obstacles

that stand between us and God. This requires a

genuine desire for God to work through us, and a

real willingness to change. The trouble is we’ve

spent a good many years quite accepting of the way we are. Change

certainly isn’t going to be easy.

The key to change is twofold. Firstly we have to take a good long look at

who we really are. Are we the sort of people who think we are always

right or always know the best way of doing things? Perhaps before God

can work through us we need to admit we are wrong about some things,

and that other people might have better ideas. Are we the sort of people

who have climbed up onto some moral high ground unable to forgive

those around us? Perhaps we need to learn to forgive before God can

work through us. Are we the sort of people who have become so set in

our ways that we have become blinkered to the opportunities God puts

our way? Perhaps before God can work through us we need to look at

the world more perceptively. Are we the sort of people who are aware of

what we should be doing but are prevented from acting because we feel

inadequate or fearful? Perhaps we need to find some courage from

somewhere before God can work through us.

Secondly, we need to be aware that change happens when we are

encouraged to see the best in ourselves. Change happens when we sit

down and visualise the kind of person we would like to be. Perhaps we

could model ourselves on someone we hugely admire. Change happens

when we encourage other people to do likewise.

Every Advent we are asked to repent. Repentance isn’t an attractive

idea; it tends to send us scurrying away in the opposite direction. But

repentance simply means changing the way we do things, and change is

a genuinely exciting prospect. Who wants to stay stuck in a rut?

MASS TIMES FOR THE COMING WEEK:

Monday: 7:30am & 10:00am.

Tuesday 8th December - Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

Vigil 7:30pm, 8:30am, 10:00am, 12:30pm & 7:30pm.

Ratheniska: 10:00am. The Heath: 10:30am. (Please note change in Mass times for the Church of the Assumption,

the Heath for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception).

Wednesday – Friday: 7:30am & 10:00am

Saturday: 10:00am

Wellness Programme

2010

“EASY P.C.”

Phone Greg Augustine on 086 - 3376114 Or E-mail engineering@easy-pc.ie for Free Estimates & Pricing.

COMPUTER SALES, REPAIRS

& UPGRADES

♦ Engineer callout service to home or office arranged at a

time to suit you.

♦ Laptops & computers serviced, upgraded and repaired.

♦ Complete new systems including 3 year onsite

warranty delivered & installed.

♦ Selection of USB memory sticks, printers, cables and

accessories.

♦ Next day delivery on orders in stock placed before 3pm

REBKOIN

Skip Hire Services

Household - Domestic - Industrial - Commercial

4cy - 6cy - 8cy - 12cy & 14cy skips.

Special 8 Yard Skips with Drop Door for

Wheelbarrow Access.

Skip Loading Service available.

Servicing.

Laois, Offaly & Kildare.

We Don’t Talk Rubbish ……….We move It 24/7

Portarlington: (057) 8643863 Mob: 087 -7975733 Web: www.rebkoin.ie

ONLY AT

PORTLAOISE LEISURE CENTRE Santa’s Special Santa’s Special Santa’s Special Santa’s Special

GrottoGrottoGrottoGrotto Saturday

December 5th, 12th, 19th 12 noon to 1:30pm

€4.50 €4.50 €4.50 €4.50 incl. Photo & Free Gift Gift Vouchers Now Available. Tel.

(057) 8681200

Struggling

with Weight

Management? Find motivating yourself hard work? Want to improve your fitness levels? Stressed at home or work? We may have the answer you’ve been waiting for! WELLNESS PROGRAMME BENEFITS All the membership benefits plus Personal Training Sessions, Extra Classes - Pilates and Boot Camp, Visits from Qualified Sports Nutritionist, Weekly Weigh-in’s, Body Stat Analysis + Full use of the Pool / Steam / Sauna.

Commences February to April TOTAL COST OF

3 MONTH COURSE: €180.

CALL NOW - LIMITED SPACES

AVAILABLE

(057) 8681200

Sponsored by the Sponsored by the Sponsored by the Sponsored by the

Lions ClubLions ClubLions ClubLions Club

THURSDAY 10TH DECEMBER At the Centre on the New Road 6:30pm

ALL ARE WELCOME!!

FRIENDS OF CALCUTTA

CLOTHING RECYCLING BANK

Has finally got it’s permanent location at St.

Mary’s Sports Hall at the Borris Rd. entrance.

Block Rd., Portlaoise, Co. Laois. Decorate Christmas Cookies in Mrs Claus’ Kitchen.

Visit the Elf’s Workshop & create your own Card & Calendar. Visit Santa in his Sitting Room. Get your photo taken with Santa (optional). North Pole Play Ball Area - Height Ltd. Have a Snow Experience with Santa’s Reindeer.

Tea, Coffee & Mince Pies.

Friday 11th December from 6pm - 9pm Saturday 12th December from 6pm - 9pm

€10 per Child, €25 Family of 3 and Adults Free! Price includes all of the above plus a present from Santa!

For Tickets Contact: Glenda 086 - 1759206 / Trisha 087 - 2021466

(between 3pm & 9pm)

We are also looking for a REINDEER for the weekend. Contact Kolbe Special School on

(057) 8620329 if you can help us.

DUBLIN ROAD, PORTLAOISE (057) 8661001

Lower Level Tesco Shopping Centre, (057) 8663686

Opp. Hospital

Wash & Dry Dry Only

Quality Ironing Service Dry Cleaning

Christmas Special!!!

50% OFF All Curtains Dry Cleaned

Over €200,000 will be paid out in this

current year.

1/2 Year (26 draws) for only €50.00

Full Year (52 Draws) for only €100.00

An ideal Christmas Present for yourself

or to give to family and friends.

Details at Parish Centre

No Jackpot Winner

PORTLAOISE PARISH COMMUNITY LOTTO DRAW HELD

THURSDAY 3RD DECEMBER 2009

NUMBERS DRAWN

08 20 23

Match 3s Won each €84

Next Week’s Jackpot: €20,000

06

12

Winner Promoter Paul McEvoy Bernie Downey

Betty Hackett Brian Conroy

Lucy Kelly Peggy Kelly

Angie Mills Betty Lynch

James Shalloe Anne Brennan

David Brown Kathleen Brown

Patsy O’Connor Michael O’Connor

Olivia Tynan Bernie Tynan

Rita Moloney Bernie Phelan

Frank McKenna Mary Arthur

Mary Cashin Mary Arthur

Sarah & Amy Kirk Betty Phelan

2010 Yearly and

Half Yearly

Vouchers

Now available

NOW HERE OUR MAGNIFICENT NOW HERE OUR MAGNIFICENT NOW HERE OUR MAGNIFICENT NOW HERE OUR MAGNIFICENT WINTER WONDERLAND!!WINTER WONDERLAND!!WINTER WONDERLAND!!WINTER WONDERLAND!!

● AMAZING PRODUCTS AMAZING PRODUCTS AMAZING PRODUCTS AMAZING PRODUCTS

● QUALITY RANGEQUALITY RANGEQUALITY RANGEQUALITY RANGE

● UNBEATABLE PRICESUNBEATABLE PRICESUNBEATABLE PRICESUNBEATABLE PRICES

● AMPLE PARKINGAMPLE PARKINGAMPLE PARKINGAMPLE PARKING

● EXPERIENCED STAFFEXPERIENCED STAFFEXPERIENCED STAFFEXPERIENCED STAFF

● MAGNIFICENT DISPLAYSMAGNIFICENT DISPLAYSMAGNIFICENT DISPLAYSMAGNIFICENT DISPLAYS

Stradbally Road,Stradbally Road,Stradbally Road,Stradbally Road, (Beside Laois Sawmills),(Beside Laois Sawmills),(Beside Laois Sawmills),(Beside Laois Sawmills),

Portlaoise, Laois.Portlaoise, Laois.Portlaoise, Laois.Portlaoise, Laois. Tel: (057) 8621075Tel: (057) 8621075Tel: (057) 8621075Tel: (057) 8621075

MAGNIFICENT MAGNIFICENT MAGNIFICENT MAGNIFICENT DECORATIONSDECORATIONSDECORATIONSDECORATIONS

ALL TYPES OF ALL TYPES OF ALL TYPES OF ALL TYPES OF

CHRISTMAS TREESCHRISTMAS TREESCHRISTMAS TREESCHRISTMAS TREES

NOW STOCKING YANKEE NOW STOCKING YANKEE NOW STOCKING YANKEE NOW STOCKING YANKEE CANDLE CHRISTMAS RANGECANDLE CHRISTMAS RANGECANDLE CHRISTMAS RANGECANDLE CHRISTMAS RANGE

STOCKIST OF ALL TYPES OF STOCKIST OF ALL TYPES OF STOCKIST OF ALL TYPES OF STOCKIST OF ALL TYPES OF

Laois Laois Laois Laois Garden WorldGarden WorldGarden WorldGarden World

HOUSEHOLD HOUSEHOLD HOUSEHOLD HOUSEHOLD

FUELS AT FUELS AT FUELS AT FUELS AT

SUPER SUPER SUPER SUPER

VALUE!!VALUE!!VALUE!!VALUE!!

Laois Newest & Biggest Garden Laois Newest & Biggest Garden Laois Newest & Biggest Garden Laois Newest & Biggest Garden FactoryFactoryFactoryFactory Outlet Outlet Outlet Outlet Shop For All Your Gardening Lifestyle NeedsShop For All Your Gardening Lifestyle NeedsShop For All Your Gardening Lifestyle NeedsShop For All Your Gardening Lifestyle Needs

Ealu Spa Therapy (057) 8678848

Wouldn’t You Like To Have A Whiter Brighter Smile?

ARE YOU TERRIFIED OF NEEDLES?

First Treatment of

COLONIC IRRIGATION Colonic Irrigation is also known as Hydrotherapy of

the colon. It is the process of

cleaning the colon. IT CAN HELP

AILMENTS SUCH AS:

Acne Constipation

Eczema Cold Hands / Feet

Asthma Chronic Fatigue

Allergies Depression

Arthritis Diarrhoea

Bloating Duodental

Flatulence Gastric / Stroma

Bad Breath Fibromyalgia

Bladder Infections Headaches

Osteoarthis Puffy / Dry Eyes

Hypertension Indigestion

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Rheumatism

Appetite / Food Cravings Stress

Was €500 Now

€99.00!

Teeth become discoloured by age, tobacco, medications or staining foods and beverages. Now, using a Revolutionary safe Tooth Whitening

System, you can have whiter,

brighter teeth in a single hour’s

session at EALU. Whether you re 18 or 80 boost your confidence today.

Make your appointment at any EALU Spa Therapy and show your winning smile!!

Do you want to address fine lines and the tell tale signs of ageing?

is the treatment for You!

50% OFF

Your 1st Treatment at EALU

♦ Needle Free Filler for the Face ♦ Needle Free Fat Jab ♦ Non Invasive, Fast, Safe & so Effective. ♦ Completely Painless & Highly

Personalised. ♦ Ideal to treat Cellulite, Stretch Marks,

Flabbiness etc.

SalesSalesSalesSales Lawnmowers

Tractor Mowers

Weedeaters

Chainsaws

Hedge Trimmers

Safety Wear

HireHireHireHire Floor Sanders

Heaters

Dehumidifiers

Powerwashers

Power Tools

Carpet

Shampooers

Wall Paper

Strippers

Rotovators

Clonminham Ind Est, Portlaoise

Tel: (057) 8660232

Portarlington Ind Est, Portarlington

Tel: (057) 8645033

LEONARD LEONARD LEONARD LEONARD CARPETS LTD CARPETS LTD CARPETS LTD CARPETS LTD

KEA-LEW

BUSINESS PARK,

PORTLAOISE,

TEL. / FAX.

(057) 8621582

♦ Carpet - Vinyls & Floor Covering

Specialists.

♦ All Types of Carpets - Plain or

Pattern.

♦ Carpet Measuring / Fitting Service.

♦ Hearth and Centre Floor Rugs.

♦ Blinds - All Latest Shades.

♦ Roller, Venetian & Vertical

Blinds.

♦ Measuring & Fitting

(Blinds) Service.

50 Years of Professional

Service in Portlaoise.

Contact Matthew on: 087 087 087 087 ---- 2549195 / 087 2549195 / 087 2549195 / 087 2549195 / 087 ---- 2369887 2369887 2369887 2369887

KEEGAN’S KEEGAN’S KEEGAN’S KEEGAN’S

FUNERALFUNERALFUNERALFUNERAL

DIRECTORSDIRECTORSDIRECTORSDIRECTORS

2 Mini

Steaks

8 Meat

Balls

8 Beef

Burgers

Mon Mon Mon Mon ---- Sat 7:30am Sat 7:30am Sat 7:30am Sat 7:30am ---- 8:00pm and Sun 8:00am 8:00pm and Sun 8:00am 8:00pm and Sun 8:00am 8:00pm and Sun 8:00am ---- 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm

Kellyville Centre, (057) 8621044

All you need under the one roof at Mulhalls.

● Large Selection of Wines - Beers - Spirits ● Fresh Fruit &

Veg. and Home Baking ● Newspapers ● One Hour Photo.

MULHALLS NOW OFFERING FREE HOME DELIVERY - CHECK INSTORE FOR DETAILS!

6 Chicken

Legs

5 Pork

Chops

4 Chicken

Fillets

Stuffed

Cooked

Chicken now

Available

each

Kilminchy Medical Centre Opening Hours:

9am - 1pm Walk-in-Clinic & 3 - 10pm by appointment only 7 days a week

Cosmetic Service also provided Botox €395 / 3 areas, Filler €450 - last 2 years,

Medical Peeling and Lipolysis. Contact: (057) 8668440

kilminchymedicalcentre.com

CALL TO OUR DEPOT FOR

♦ QUALITY SEASONED FIREWOOD & KINDLING.

♦ SUITABLE FOR OUT DOOR BURNERS, FIRE-

PLACES & STOVES.

♦ AVAILABLE IN HANDY CARRY BAGS OR LARGE

BULK BAGS.

♦ BULK LOADS AVAILABLE FROM CAR TRAILER

TO ARTICULATED TRUCK.

♦ COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE. FRIENDLY SERVICE AT A REASONABLE PRICE.

FURTHER INFORMATION FROM OUR DEPOT.

Phone: 087 - 2569918 or 086 - 1651064

LAOIS FIREWOOD SUPPLIES Kyletelisha, Portlaoise, Co. Laois

Treatment Rooms / Nail Stations for Rent in state of the art Beauty Clinics / Spas

www.ealuspatherapy.com

Call (045) 480820

♦ Fully Furnished.

♦ Receptionist to answer your calls and greet

your clients.

♦ Convenient locations you need to grow your

business.

♦ Flexible term options to rent a treatment room

for a day, a month, or longer from as little as

€50.00.

♦ Free Website fully updated.

♦ Free / co-op advertising or pr.

♦ Affordable low start and set up investment.

♦ State-of-the-art printing, leaflets and stationary.

♦ Free Training.

FREE ESTIMATES!FREE ESTIMATES!FREE ESTIMATES!FREE ESTIMATES!

FREE COURTESY FREE COURTESY FREE COURTESY FREE COURTESY

CAR!CAR!CAR!CAR!

FREE RECOVERY!FREE RECOVERY!FREE RECOVERY!FREE RECOVERY! WHEN YOUR VEHICLE IS WHEN YOUR VEHICLE IS WHEN YOUR VEHICLE IS WHEN YOUR VEHICLE IS

REPAIRED ATREPAIRED ATREPAIRED ATREPAIRED AT

FRAN’S CRASH REPAIRS,FRAN’S CRASH REPAIRS,FRAN’S CRASH REPAIRS,FRAN’S CRASH REPAIRS, Clonminam Industrial Estate, Portlaoise, Laois.Clonminam Industrial Estate, Portlaoise, Laois.Clonminam Industrial Estate, Portlaoise, Laois.Clonminam Industrial Estate, Portlaoise, Laois.

Tel: (057) 8661481 Tel: (057) 8661481 Tel: (057) 8661481 Tel: (057) 8661481

(057) 8660486 1 Dublin Road, Portlaoise.

Open Monday Open Monday Open Monday Open Monday ---- Saturday Saturday Saturday Saturday until Christmas until Christmas until Christmas until Christmas

St. Vincent de PaulSt. Vincent de PaulSt. Vincent de PaulSt. Vincent de Paul

Open from 10:00am to 4:00pm

WHARTONS TRAVEL PORTLAOISE

MANCHESTER UNITED VS WOLVES

15th December 2009, Day Trip €79.00 p.p.

MANCHESTER UNITED VS WIGAN

30th December 2009, 1 Night €179.00 p.p.s.

MANCHESTER UNITED VS LEEDS / KETTERING

2nd January 2010, 1 Night €139 p.p.s.

MANCHESTER UNITED VS BURNLEY

16th January 2010, 1 Night €179 p.p.s, 2 Nights €229 p.p.s..

MANCHESTER UNITED VS PORTSMOUTH

6th February 2010, 1 Night €199 p.p.s., 2 Nights €249 p.p.s.

€100 Deposit Secures LUXURY COACH FROM PORTLAOISE - NEW 3 STAR HOTEL!

Contact: (057) 8646486 / 086 - 8110090

E-mail: john@whartonstravel.com

WWW.PATFOGARTY.COM

THE ORIGINAL AND STILL THE BEST

BBBBERGERGERGERG

GGGGOOOO----

KKKKARTSARTSARTSARTS JOIN OUR

CHRISTMAS CLUB!

IRELAND’S TOP SELLING PEDAL GO-KART BRAND. WIDEST RANGE OF

MODELS AND ACCESSORIES COMPLETELY MANUFACTURED IN HOLLAND

GENUINE CE & TUV TEST CERTIFICATION

CALL OUT FOR BROCHURE AND TEST DRIVE

PAT FOGARTY SALES & SERVICE CLONKEEN, PORTLAOISE PH: (057) 8620868 MOBILE: 087-2598295

BRIDGE ST. CENTRE,

PORTLAOISE

(057) 8660558

WELL THEN TURN THIS

INTO

UTAH SOFA BEDS

ONLY €249.00

WITH PURCHASE OF SELECTED TILES

LAOIS, KILDARE, DUBLIN & NR. TIPP DAILY

Also Car Transporter Hire & Recovery of Cars & Motorbikes ♦ 48 Hr Nationwide Service ♦ House Moves ♦ Parcel + Pallets

Contact Paddy on 086 - 8701046 FAX: (0505) 48680

CONTRACT HIRE & SPOT HIRE

MICON HOME INSULATION

Contact: 087 - 2210977

The ONLY Portlaoise Based Home

Insulation Experts. Wall and Attic

Insulation. Graphite 27 Plus Bonded

Bead Wall Insulation. Grant Approved.

I.A.B. Approved. Attics a Speciality!!

CLONAD, PORTLAOISE, CO. LAOIS

Complete Range of Glass ● Glass and Mirror cut to size ● Tabletops & Shelving ● Decorative Glass and Shower Glass ● Colour Splash Backs and Worktops ● Safety Glass and MORE…….

FULL REPAIR AND FITTING SERVICE Phone: (057) 8661200 Fax (057) 8661153

TIMAHOE RD., PORTLAOISE.

Costume and Fancy Dress Hire The Heath, Portlaoise, Co Laois.

Tel: (057) 8646834 / www.costumehire.ie

Email: marion.garcia@costumehire.ie

Costumes for all Occasions 18th, 21st , 30th , 40th

Birthday Parties, etc. Plenty to choose from.

Luxury Santa Suits Available!

Gas and Oil Boiler Service and Repair

Plumbing & Heating

R. G. I.

CONTACT: 087 - 6454870

Portlaoise Rugby

Football Club

Newly Refurbished Clubhouse is

available for Parties, Functions etc.

Contact: Martina @ 087-9027658

COLLINS FURNITURE REMOVALS

STORAGE

WAREHOUSE

Christmas Day Lunch this year and also Christmas Party Night on the 11th December. Call or E-mail us now for details!

Contact reception on (057) 8626622 or e-mail: reception@gandoninn.com

Emo, Co. Laois

Sand & Gravel Small loads of sand, gravel, chippings

etc. delivered (up to 5 tonnes).

Contact Tom @

(086) 2210312

If you need to get home, pick up the phone!If you need to get home, pick up the phone!If you need to get home, pick up the phone!If you need to get home, pick up the phone!

SAM BARTLEY’SSAM BARTLEY’SSAM BARTLEY’SSAM BARTLEY’S

TAXITAXITAXITAXI

Tel: 087 9149299Tel: 087 9149299Tel: 087 9149299Tel: 087 9149299

Abbeyleix Rd., Portlaoise, Co. Laois.

Tel.: (057) 8620246

Open Mon - Sat 10am - 6pm

FEATHER & DOWN MATTRESS TOPPERS FEATHER & DOWN MATTRESS TOPPERS FEATHER & DOWN MATTRESS TOPPERS FEATHER & DOWN MATTRESS TOPPERS ----

THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS PRESENT!!THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS PRESENT!!THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS PRESENT!!THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS PRESENT!! Feather & down mattress toppers are ideal for those who

consider comfort a priority while they sleep. Placed over your existing

mattress, they provide extra support and comfort, with the firmness of

feather and the softness of down. Our mattress toppers are made from

a heavily filled under layer of feather for firmness, and topped by a

soft layer of fine white duck down for that deluxe feel. The

luxurious feel of feather and down underneath your body helps to

support ones pressure points such as shoulders and hips, while also

providing softness and warmth for those winter nights. Like sleeping

on a cloud!

Single RRP €115 Now €90

Double RRP €145 Now €116

King RRP €175 Now €140

Superking RRP €200 Now €160 ALSO 20% OFF ALL GOOSE DOWN QUILTS, PILLOWS & BED

LINEN FROM NOW UNTIL CHRISTMAS.

30% OFF BEAUX REVES LUXURY BED LINEN BOXED SETS.

UP TO 50% OFF FURNITURE, BEDS, SOFAS, DINING - SHOP

FLOOR MODELS.

Kilminchy, Dublin Rd., Portlaoise,

(057) 8622415 / 086 - 2509079

coughlan fireplaces

& Plaster Mouldings

♦ Cornices

♦ Corbels

♦ Centrepieces

♦ Panel Mouldings ♦ Specialists in:

Quality Marble, Stone, Tile and Cast Iron Fireplaces.

Mothercare Portlaoise together with Santa’s little helpers would like to invite you to

Mothercare Christmas Party......Mothercare Christmas Party......Mothercare Christmas Party......Mothercare Christmas Party...... Tuesday 8Tuesday 8Tuesday 8Tuesday 8thththth December 10am December 10am December 10am December 10am ---- 4pm 4pm 4pm 4pm

♦ Our little helpers will help you choose the

perfect gift for your little one!

♦ You will have the chance to see this seasons

star buys, best sellers and store favourites.

♦ There will also be spot prizes, face painting,

Christmas fun and festivities!

♦ 10% discount off 10% discount off 10% discount off 10% discount off early learning centre on the

day. Not valid on sale or promotional lines.

Laois Support Service Against Domestic Abuse

Cordially invite you to the

16 Days of Action Campaign on Violence Against Women March of Hope

Assembly at Portlaoise Garda Station at 3.45pm on

Tuesday 8th December & gather for a Minute Silence at Portlaoise Courthouse at 4pm

To Commemorate the 159 WOMEN

WHO HAVE DIED THROUGH VIOLENCE SINCE 1996 in the Republic of Ireland.

PLEASE JOIN US!!!! Campaign organised by Laois Support Service Against Domestic Abuse

with the support of Laois Amnesty

Laois Support Services Against Domestic Abuse

THE IMMACULATE THE IMMACULATE THE IMMACULATE THE IMMACULATE

CONCEPTIONCONCEPTIONCONCEPTIONCONCEPTION

(December 8th)

God sent the angel

Gabriel to ask Mary to

be Jesus’ mother.

In the Gospel

The prophet Isaiah said that someone would come to get everyone ready to welcome Jesus. John the Baptist is the man who is preparing

the way for Jesus. John wants the path to our hearts to be easy for Jesus. One of the ways we can get our hearts ready for Jesus is to be sorry for the things we have done wrong. We can change our hearts and be ready to welcome Jesus.

SAINT NICHOLAS SAINT NICHOLAS SAINT NICHOLAS SAINT NICHOLAS (December 6th)

Saint Nicholas was a

bishop who loved children.

According to legend he liked

to leave small gifts for the

children to surprise them.

When St. Nicholas died,

people kept up the tradition

of giving gifts to the

children on a special day.

We remember Saint Nicholas & how much he showed

his love for God by surprising the children with gifts.

The Second The Second The Second The Second Sunday of AdventSunday of AdventSunday of AdventSunday of Advent

Two purple candles are now

lit for the first and second

Sundays in Advent. The Candle of Peace is lit this Sunday on the second

Sunday of Advent.

Complete the Complete the Complete the Complete the Wordsearch!Wordsearch!Wordsearch!Wordsearch!

♦ JOHN ♦ BAPTISM ♦ SMOOTH ♦ STRAIGHT ♦ PHILIP ♦ ROUGH ♦ FORGIVENESS

♦ CALLING ♦ CROOKED ♦ JUDEA ♦ JORDAN ♦ CAESAR ♦ PILATE ♦ REPENTANCE ♦ SINS ♦ DESERT ♦ PREPARE ♦ GALILEE ♦ HEROD ♦ VOICE

Colour this picture of John the Baptist.

'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for

him’.

Candle of PeaceCandle of PeaceCandle of PeaceCandle of Peace May the God of

hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him.

Hair Design

New Salon Open!!! 8A Fairgreen Village, (057) 8682830

Open 7 Days Monday to Friday 10am - 7pm

Saturday 9am - 5pm & Sunday 10am - 3pm Free treatments to all clients. Lots of Opening Offers!!

Also Clipz in Mountmellick Open Wednesday to Saturday. Call (057) 8697003

Local Experienced Electrician Available

No Job too Small!! Free Advice and Quotations.

Contact:

085 - 7703926

Rathleash Shutters Ltd Risk Assessments

Shuttering Hire

PTO Guarding and Trailer Lighting Supplied and Fitted

On Site Maintenance and Repairs It won’t cost you an arm or a leg Rathleash, Portarlington, Co. Laois

(057) 8626445 / 086 - 2493700 E-mail: tbut@eircom.net

Water Softeners Iron Filters, Ultra Violet Filters

(For Bacteria Control)

Complete Home & Industrial

Water Treatment Systems

Sales & Service Local Authority Grants available to bring

individual private well supplies up to E.U. Standards

providing dwelling is at least 7 yrs old. ( Not available to people on mains water supplies)

Aqua Treatment Dromadoon, Mountrath Rd, Portlaoise

Tel: (057) 8622400 / 8662525

(087) 2580318 Website: www.aquatreatment.ie

CASTLE ARMS HOTEL

The Square, Durrow, Co. Laois

We have launched a

NEW WEDDING BROCHURE

&

FANTASTIC WEDDING DAY PACKAGES!

*4 Course Buffet Packages from €24.95 pp*

*4 Course Seated Service Packages from €29.95 pp*

A REALLY SPECIAL DAY FOR A VERY NICE

PRICE!

Please contact the Hotel for further information Telephone: (057) 8736117

E-mail: info@castlearmshotel.ie

Get

SKY Connected

Contact David on:

086 - 3475357

(057) 8645063

No Phone Line needed

See Sky, Sky+, HD Special Offers on

www.MIDLANDSTV.ie

€225 - No More Bills BBC / ITV

Systems!!

RTE & TV3 Aerials & Installation

Service Available.

Open Mon to Thurs 9am - 5pm & Friday 9am - 4pm.

Phone: (057) 8681492

www.cuislecentre.com

We are a registered charity offering professional

support to people diagnosed with cancer and their families.

We provide a Variety of Services including:

Acupuncture, Counselling, Massage, Prosthesis Fittings,

Reflexology and Manual Lymphatic Drainage.

All Services are FREE of charge.

Group Meeting:

Wednesday - Coffee morning from 11:00am - 1:00pm

Women’s & Men’s Monthly Support Group Meetings

Workshops 1st Thursday of every month 8:00pm - 9:30pm

The Cuisle Centre The Cuisle Centre The Cuisle Centre The Cuisle Centre Cancer Support Service Cancer Support Service Cancer Support Service Cancer Support Service Block Road, Portlaoise, Co. LaoisBlock Road, Portlaoise, Co. LaoisBlock Road, Portlaoise, Co. LaoisBlock Road, Portlaoise, Co. Laois

086-3960125 / (057) 8645668

Member of the National Guild of Master Craftsmen

Independent Tree Services

Professional Tree Surgery

Tree and Shrub Pruning, Tree Felling, Hedge Trimming,

Garden Maintenance, Tree Health / Condition Surveys.

Fully Qualified and Insured. All sites left clean and tidy.

Phone: (057) 8628597 Mobile: 087 - 1380687

Market Square, Portlaoise. Every Friday 9:00am - 3:00pm

Fresh fish, locally produced vegetables, breads, cakes, chutneys and jams.

Keeping you the consumer in touch with local producers!

057 - 8 666838

087 - 7 636088

Now Open

at

Coliseum Lane High Class Butchers

Qualit y Meat Guaranteed!

Monster Bingo will take place in Mountmellick Community Arts

Centre on Sunday 13th December at 3pm.

€5,000 in Pr ize Money. Br ing a Fr iend! !

Sunday 13th December at 7.30pm

20 Raffles!! First Raffle Free. Come along & support!!

You could win your Christmas Dinner and More!!

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY 9:00AM - 5:00PM

Have your loved ones, family and friends, remembered at Masses celebrated in Portlaoise Parish on the feast of Christmas. The €3 donation for the card will be

given to the Renovation Fund of St. Peter & Paul’s Church.

Christmas Mass Bouquets €3.00

RELI GI OUS NOTI CES Port laoise Prayer Group: Meet ing

every Wednesday evening at 8.15pm

in the Par ish Centre.

Night Vigil to Knock: Monday 7th

December, leaving Port laoise 7: 30pm,

Mountmellick 7: 40pm. Also Pilgr image

to Fat ima 2nd June 2010 for 7 days.

Book your seat with Maura O’ Br ien,

086 - 3344722, (057) 8661601 / (057)

8621291.

ANNI VERSARI ES

First Anniversary Mass for Jimmy

Mart ley, Borr is Rd., will be celebrated

in the Par ish Church on Monday 7th

December at 7: 30pm.

WANTED Computer Required in good working

condit ion. Contact : 086 - 1606730.

Jubilee Solid Fuel Cooker W anted:

Contact : 087 - 2192411.

FOR SALE SECTI ON For Sale: 40kg Bags of Coal, €15, free

delivery, great value, also Scrap Metal

removed, Car Bat ter ies free of charge.

Contact 086 - 0876581.

For Sale: White Alum inium Door,

height 79” x 40.75” . Very Good

Cond it ion . €250 o.n .o. , Cont act :

(057) 8624944.

For Sale: Set of Drums and Stool,

s l i g h t l y d am ag ed , € 1 5 0 , a l so

Go-Kart , hardly used, €100, Contact :

086 - 3925819.

For Sale: Gents Raleigh Bicycle,

28” wheel, as new, Port laoise Area,

Contact : (057) 8672900.

Fo r Sa le : Ador ab le Min ia t u r e

Yorkshire Terr ier , 1 year old, genuine

reason for sale, €200 (no papers) ,

Contact : 086 - 8047433.

For Sale: Stanley Super 90 Oil

Cooker, Alum inium White PVC Door,

a lso PVC Wh i t e Doub le Glazed

Windows of vary ing sizes. All in

e x c e l l e n t c o n d i t i o n . Co n t a c t :

(057) 8622248 after 6pm.

For Sa le : 7KW Oil Fired Fuel

Effect Stove, hardly used, €700 o.n.o.,

C o n t a c t : ( 0 5 7 ) 8 6 2 7 1 5 4 /

087-9608780.

For Sale: New Car Trailer , 6’ft x 4ft

w ith ladder rack, €350, Contact :

087 - 4145649.

For Sa le: Philips Mobile Studio

and Karate Suit - white 1/ 40, Barbie

Accesso r i es i n c l u d in g Cu r t a i n s,

Lampshade and Music Centre. Contact :

087 - 7781791.

For Sale: Computer Desk, ant ique

pine, pull out shelf for keyboard,

2 d r a w e r s , € 6 0 , C o n t a c t :

087 - 7708348 after 6pm.

USEFUL SERVI CES I r ish & English Grinds Available: Le a v i n g Ce r t . H i g h e r Le v e l . Ex pe r i en ced Teacher . Ex ce l l en t Results. Contact : 086 - 1023411.

Caroline’s Holist ics: M.N.R.R.I ,

Reflexology, I ndian Head Massage,

Hop i Ear Candle Treatm ent &

Pedicure. All t reatments one hour

cost ing €40. Contact : 086 - 4055618.

Home Hairdresser Available: Call

Mar iet ta for an appointment on

087 - 6276236.

Hypnosis. Time for Change?

Stop Smoking easily ( with no weight

gain) , Weight loss, Phobia Control,

Freedom from Addict ion, Asthma

Control, Medical Hypnosis, Contact

D a v i d ( D . H . P. a d v . M. I . C. H . P. ) ,

Kilm inchy, Port laoise, 087-6985816.

Babysit ter Available Anyt im e:

Much Exper ience, own t ransport -

Lao i s a r ea , an y o t h e r w o r k

considered, Call: (057) 8688269 /

087 - 4102324.

COMMUNI TY NOTES 50+ Act ive Age Group Act ivit ies

November Programme:

W ed. 9 th Dec.: Choir 2pm. Sports

3pm

Thurs. 10 th Dec.: Christmas Dinner

in the Her itage Hotel at 5pm followed

by Choral Concert in Dunamaise

Theatre by 65 Kitchen Choir at

8: 00pm.

E.B.T. ( Employer Based Training)

Programme Port laoise: Are you

unemployed due to Accident , I llness

or Disability? Are you in receipt of

Disability Allowance, I llness Benefit /

I nvalidity Pension? Are you interested

in returning to work? I f so, you could

be ent it led to FAS funded t raining

and we may be able to help. For

f u r t h e r i n f o r m a t i o n o n t h i s

programme please contact : Peter

McDerm o t t , Na t i on a l Lea r n in g

Network , Dub l in Rd, Por t laoise

on ( 057 ) 8621263 or e-m ail :

port laoise@nln.ie

Thank You: Sincere thanks to all

w h o su pp o r t ed Eo i n Low r y ’ s

Marathon in New York in conjunct ion

with the I r ish Heart Foundat ion.

A total of €13,400 was raised and we

are very grat eful for all your

donat ions.

Table Quiz: The Relat ives & Fr iends

of St . Vincent 's Hospital Mountmellick

Act ion Group are holding a table quiz

in Tur ley’s Bar, Mountmellick on

Fr iday 11th December at 9pm. Table

of 4 €20. Great Pr izes on the night .

Please support this very worthy

cause.

Monster Bingo at the Youth Centre,

Green Lane, Car low on this Sunday

6th December at 3pm. €15,000 in

pr izes, 6 Panel Book €15, Double

Book €20. Buses from all areas,

enquir ies to (059) 9143181.

Raffle: Port laoise Par ish Youth Group

t ravelling to Lourdes in 2010 will hold

a Chr istmas Raffle on the 18th of

December. Tickets are on sale from

Commit tee Members and Youth only,

at a cost of €2 each. Please give

generously.

ACCORD Marriage & Relationship Counselling

057-8661581 AWARE

Need help for Depression? 059-8625898 GORTA

5 Kelton House, Portlaoise (057) 8622966.

SUE RYDER SHOP (057) 8672506

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL Dublin Road, Portlaoise

(057) 8660486 SHINE

Formerly Schizophrenia Ireland. (057) 932311 / 1890 621 631.

GROW Support for people suffering from Depression, Shyness, Anxiety etc.

086 - 8033126. STAMMERING SUPPORT

01-8724405 LAOIS SUPORT SERVICE AGAINST

DOMESTIC ABUSE 057-8671100 / 057-8671101

AMEN Support Service for Male Victims of

Domestic Abuse. 046-9023718

LAOIS TALKING NEWSPAPER (057) 8661754

LEGION OF MARY 086 - 1513515.

S.O.S. Parents supporting Parents

086-2037713 PRO BONO LIFE COACHING Anthony Collins 087 - 2473808.

MOUNT ST. ANNES, KILLENARD (057) 8626153. ALATEEN

087 - 2929315 / (057) 8663013. AL-ANON MEETING Tuesday Night 8:00pm in

Mount St. Anne’s LA LECHE MONTHLY MEETING

Parish Centre 1st Tuesday of the month at 10am

CURA Support for Crisis Pregnancy

1850 - 622626 PARENTS TOGETHER Parent & Toddler Group

085 - 7620874 STRADBALLY PARENT & TODDLER

GROUP Tuesday Mornings 9:30am - 12 noon in the

G.A.A. Hall, Stradbally SET DANCING MAUREEN CULLETON

(057) 8755249.

FOR RENT 3-Bed House to rent in Kilm inchy, rent negot iable, fully

furnished, G.F./ C.H., near all local

amenit ies. Contact : 086 - 3 978605

anyt ime.

FOR SALE

‘05 Silver Hyundai

Coupe 1.6 Pet rol,

low m ileage, excellent

condit ion, Contact :

087 - 2 3 75585

COMMUNI TY NOTES Ardara Hillw alk ing Final W alk of

2 009 : Sunday 5 th December: ( 'B'

grade 5hrs / 12 m ls) canal walk from

Tullamore to Pollagh, meet ing in

Tullamore, Stat ion Rd at 10: 30am.

Contact Paul 087 - 2545805. For all

walks wear waterproof hillwalk ing

footwear. New members welcome. For

the 2010 Calendar of Walks, v isit our

website www.ardarahillwalking.com

D’Youth Factory Youth Cafe is

current ly open on the Abbeyleix Road

on Monday (Junior Group 12 - 14) ,

Tuesday (Senior Group 15 - 18) and

Wednesday from 4 - 6pm, Thursdays

from 4 - 7pm and Fr iday nights from

5 - 9pm! We have some equipment for

our Youth Café but we could do with a

lot more! And it doesn’t have to be

brand spanking new. Maybe you have

something at home that you don’t use

any more?! We would love some

Computers / Laptops that we can

revamp, lockable filing cabinets, DJ

Equ ipm ent , l igh t s and Amp, or

anything you think we m ight like & use

in the Youth Cafe! We know the people

of Laois are very generous so thank

you in advance!

Teen Betw een: A support service

available for teenagers of separated

fam ilies at Youth Work I reland Laois,

Abbeyleix Road, Port laoise. Call us on

(057) 8665010 or check us out on

www.ywilaois.ie.

GROW : He l p i n g Peo p l e He l p

Themselves, are holding meet ings on

Mondays from 7.30pm - 8.30pm in

Youth Work I reland Laois for 18-25

year olds who feel they need someone

to talk to in comfortable surroundings

with web access, playstat ions and pool

available. Contact John Farren from

GROW on 086 - 8033126 for details.

M.A.B.S. Meet ing will be held in

St . Mar y ’s Hal l St r adbal ly t h is

Wednesday com ing, 9th December at

7: 30pm. All are Welcome.

Clonad Camogie Club G.A.A.:

resumes t raining for all players on

Sundays from 11am-12 noon A Junior

team will be fielded in the com ing

year and new members are always

welcome for both the Juvenile and

Junior teams.

Maths Grinds Available: Contact :

086 - 8521879.

The Lions / Hospice

Christmas Tree Sa le Will take place in

The Macra Hall, New Road.

From

Saturday 5 th December

To

Sunday 20 th December The Lions and Hospice wish to

thank all those who have

supported them over the years.

NEW BOOK

RELEASED “A Life of Sir Horace

Plunket t , Visionary

Pioneer of the Farmer

Co-op Movement ”.

Now available in

Eason’s Port laoise.

Today’s Reflection

I may never see tomorrow,

There’s no writ ten guarantee,

And things that happened

yesterday belong to history,

I can’t predict the future,

I cannot change the past ,

I have just this present moment ,

I must t reat it as my last .

I must use this moment wisely,

For it soon will pass away,

And be lost to me forever,

As part of yesterday,

I must exercise compassion,

Help the fallen to their feet ,

Be a fr iend to the fr iendless,

Make an empty life complete.

The unkindest thing I do today,

May never be undone,

And fr iendships that I fail to win,

May nevermore be won,

I may not have another chance,

On bended knees to pray,

And thank God with a humble heart ,

For giving me this day.

OI L BOI LER SERVI CE Carbon Monoxide Test ing,

Carbon Dioxide Test ing and

Efficiency Test ing.

SOLI D FUEL STOVE

SERVI CI NG

Rope and Bricks Changed

and Grates replaced

Contact Tom:

086 - 3 9 25819

House to Rent 3-Bed House to rent in Rossvale Port laoise, recent ly decorated, €600 per month, Social Security

accepted. Contact :

087 - 9 709881 .

Turf

For Sale Good Quality Turf.

Contact :

087 - 6 371937

FOR RENT 3-Bed Semi-detached

House in Kilm inchy.

Recent ly decorated,

fully furnished with

back garden & many

ext ras. Contact :

087 - 6 730313

PERFECT TOUCH

● Reflexology

● I ndian Head Massage

● Hopi Ear Candle

● I .E.T. Therapy

(Master / I nst ructor)

Contact Mary on

086 - 3 8 64761

FOR RENT 2-Bed Bungalow in the Green, Kilm inchy, Dublin Road,

Garage and Private Garden, Furnished or Unfurnished. Call t o arrange a viewing:

086 - 1 7 06764

For a Br illiant Start to a

Br illiant Season

SHAWS LA BOUTI QUE

AND SHAWS

DEPARTMENT STORES Are now open Sundays

1: 30pm - 5: 30pm.

Where everyone gathers

for a Br illiant Service at

Br illiant Pr ices!

JOHN RI CE

PAI NTER

& DECORATOR Wall Paper ing

Contact :

086 - 3 650713

0 57 - 8 660660

House to Rent 3-Bed House to rent in Rossvale Port laoise, recent ly decorated, €600 per month, Social Security

accepted. Contact :

087 - 9 709881 .

Turf

For Sale Good Quality Turf.

Contact :

087 - 6 371937

Lady Available

for I roning

Port laoise Area, can

collect and deliver.

Contact :

086 - 2 3 74091

0 86 - 2 6 90859

ORDER YOUR

FREE RANGE

TURKEYS

Now for

Christmas! !

Contact :

085 - 1 455389

‘STARS I N YOUR

EYES’ KARAOKE ‘Feeling the Blues’ this

Christmas! . So why not

Sing the Blues away at

your Karaoke Christmas

Party Night Out . Contact

086 - 2 407189

Blades Hair Design

Main St ., Port laoise Ladies Shampoo & Finish

only €12 and Ladies

Shampoo, Cut & Finish

only €25. Don’t delay, call

Natalie today to book

your new hairstyle on

085 - 1 493980

CLEANI NG

SERVI CE Carpet & Upholstery

Cleaning. Also t imber &

t iled floors cleaned and

polished. For all your

requirements, Contact

085 - 7 2 54926

Do you need something moved from

your House or Garden?

i.e. Rubbish, Furniture etc.

Driver & Open Truck

Available Anyt ime! Contact :

086 - 2 174219

( 0 57 ) 8 682340

Are you look ing for that

Special Gift th is Christmas?

“Cullenagh & Ballyknocken

Memories” A beaut iful collect ion of Photographs

& Stories from its people. Cost : €22.

On Sale in Paddy Dowling’s

Newsagents, Mountmellick Rd.,

Port laoise, Gala Stores, Ballyroan &

Port laoise Parish Book & Gift Shop.

Donat ions from the sale w ill be

made to Laois Hospice. Your support would be great ly appreciated.

Portlaoise Parish Sunday 29th November

Offertory Collection €3,450.00 Development Collection €3,686.00 €7,136.00 Our thanks and appreciation to all who subscribe so generously to the Parish.

Pride of Place

All Ireland Winner

2008

Manager Declan Kelly 057 8621142

Parish Office At The Parish Centre Monday to Friday

9am - 5pm Parish Secretary Michelle Bartley Mon - Fri 9am - 2pm

Recept ionist Mary Bowe

Mon - Thurs 1pm - 5pm

Ph: 057 8621142 Fax. 057 8660260

Accounts Michelle Conroy 057 8621142

Caretaker Danny Marum 6pm to 10pm

Parish Catechist Margaret Dooley

057 8621142

Sacristan Martin O’Neill 057 8692151

(The phone in the sacristy is attended prior to Mass times)

Editor Julie Conroy Office Hours

Monday to Thursday 11am to 5pm

057 8692154 Advertising Deadline Tuesday 5pm

julie@portlaoiseparish.ie Now available online at www.portlaoiseparish.ie

Parish Shop Nicholas & Maureen Keary

Religious Goods, Books

and gifts items

Failte We welcomed the following into the Christian Community through the

Sacrament of Baptism:

Cian Andrew Birchall, The Herm itage

Jessie I ra Griffin.

Gerard Christopher Donoghue,

Esker Hills

Kevin Krist ian Gazik, Cois na Habhann

Zac Hendrick Van der Meulen, Foxborrow

Harry Brendan Delaney, Derrygarron

Josh Kevin Bowe, Maryborough Village.

Meditation & Advent

Reflection In preparation

for Christmas

I n the Par ish Cent re, on

Wednesday s 9 t h &

16th December at 8pm

All are Welcome.

Scripture Sharing for Advent. Monday 7th December: 8:00pm

St. Brigid’s Place Community Centre Tuesday 8th December: 7:30pm O’ Moore Place, Community Centre Tuesday 8th December: 7:30pm Knockmay Community Centre Tuesday 8th December: 8:00pm Residence of Pat & Frank Conway,

Colliers Lane. Tuesday 8th December: 8:00pm 17 Parnell Crescent, Knockmay.

Nicholas,

An Advent

Saint

6th December During Advent the

Chu r c h c a l l s

people to focus on

getting ready to

receive Christ - preparing hearts

and lives to make room for Jesus,

to live as he would have us live.

It’s a time for quiet contemplation

rather than celebration, but because

of the culture we live in, it’s hard

to observe Advent without being

pulled prematurely into Christmas.

How does St. Nicholas fit into all

of this? He is an Advent Saint

because his December 6th Feast

Day always falls in early Advent.

However, Nicholas is a good

Advent Saint for more important

reasons than the date of his special

day. His life clearly reflected the

way each one of us is called to

show God's love to others,

especially those in need.

Pope Benedict ’s Prayer I ntent ion

for December Childhood and adolescence are fundamentally important

stages for the development of a man and a woman that

require stabilit y, serenity and security. How can children

who have become m igrants, refugees or the vict ims of

exploitat ion, t rafficking, or natural disaster look forward

to the future with confidence? While it is t rue that much is

being done for them , even greater commitment is st ill

needed to help them by creat ing suitable hospitality and format ive st ructures.

This month we are inv ited to join in Pope Benedict ’s prayer intent ion

“…That children may be respected and loved and never be the vict ims of

exploitat ion in it s various forms.”

Feast of the

I mmaculate

Concept ion

8 th December The doct r ine of the

Immaculate Concept ion

teaches that Mary, the

mother of Christ , was

conceiv ed w i t hou t sin and her

concept ion was t hus immaculat e.

Many people confuse the Immaculate

Concept ion with the 'virgin birth'; the

belief that Mary gave birth to Jesus

while remaining a virgin. They are not

the same thing. Mary received God's

grace from the first moment of her

ex ist ence, and was t ot al ly and

completely redeemed by this grace.

Because she was redeemed, Mary

spent her whole existence in a perfect

relat ionship with God.