Summer Fệte 9th August One of the highlights of the year in Mallow Union, the Summer Fệte is one of our main fundraising events. Situated in the grounds of St James’s, the usual stalls of bric-a-brac, cakes, country produce, plants, books and toys, along with various raffles and a bottle stall were present. Teas and cakes were served in our newly refurbished hall, and the carnivores amongst us were tempted with very tasty burgers and sausages! Inside the church was a welcoming cool space if you wanted to escape the frantic activity outside. This year music was provided during the day in church provided by local soprano Maureen Flynn, who sang songs both operatic and modern from well known musicals; Mike Ferguson and friends (guitars and flute) gave us a great sing-along session to traditional Irish and modern music; followed by Johnny ‘Bongos’ Horgan on various percussion instruments. Something for everyone. Trialled last year, the dedicated ‘Kids Corner’ with games and activities was expanded with the introduction of a Bouncy Castle and tables where children could paint masks in vibrant colours. The Bouncy Castle was eyed with envy by some of the adults among us, but they resisted the temptation…until after the children had gone! We were blessed with some sunshine and warm weather (with the occasional shower) but spirits were high, and we were well supported by the local community. At the time of writing, €9,259 was raised with monies still coming in. Well done and huge thanks to all those whose skill, generosity and hard work enabled a great day to go really well. Do join us next year!
Summer Club A small and enthusiastic group of young people gathered in St James’s Hall on Saturday 5th July for their annual Summer Club. This year the theme was medieval pilgrimages as they heard the story of the origins of the St James’s Santiago de Compostela walks. We sang songs, dressed up as medieval knights, made lances and shields, and did our own pilgrimage around the church grounds. The flower beds were looking splendid in the very warm sunshine. After some lovely refreshments, the kids (and the adult helpers) went home tired but happy.
Mallow Arts Festival Once again this annual event never fails to disappoint. It is a privilege to be able to offer the church building as a space for artistes to showcase their amazing talent. From the Wednesday to the Sunday we hosted concerts in the afternoons and evenings. Highlights were Eleanor Shanley singing the songs of Percy French, Bressie, Scullion (Philip King, Sonny Condell, Robbie Overson), Kieran Goss, and local choir Cor Mhagh Ealla. Church was open during each day and we were pleased to welcome many visitors. The concerts were all very well attended.
Fundraising in Castletownroche Thanks to all who supported and helped at the Tea Day/BBQ at Mark and Diana Buckley’s, Castletownroche on Sunday 13th July. Diana started Tea Days first in 1995 for the Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland. After a gap during Covid they resumed in 2022 when the proceeds were divided between ASI and Marymount Hospice Cork in memory of family and friends. Thanks to all who donated prizes for the raffle, especially Cotter’s Farm Castletownroche and Carmel’s Hair Salon Fermoy. €3,510 has been raised to date.
Castletownroche Tidy Towns wish to thank parishioners for their very generous donation of €250 to Tidy Town funds.
Welcome to the Church Family St James’s congregation were delighted to welcome Cillian James Mills and his family and Godparents at his baptism during the Eucharist on Sunday 3rd August. Family and friends joined the congregation for refreshments after the service.
Harvest Services Here in North Cork, the countryside has been looking especially beautiful due to the good summer we have had. The fields are well and truly golden with hundreds of newly rolled bales of hay dotted around the fields. There will be much to celebrate this year! Services in the Union are as follows: Mallow – 21st September 4pm, preacher Ms Rita Kelly from the Diocese of the West (TLK). Rita is no stranger to Mallow having preached for us during a memorable service in Irish as part of our St Patrick’s Day celebrations a few years ago. Castletownroche – 12th October 3pm, preacher Rev Ted Ardis. Doneraile – 19th October 3pm, preacher TBC.