162: 17th April, 2026
25th Annual Maurice O’Keeffe Traditional Music Festival Draws Crowds for a Memorable Easter Celebration
The 25th Annual Maurice O’Keeffe Traditional Music Festival was held over the Easter weekend. Five days of fantastic music, song, and dance took place in two pubs in Kiskeam and in the Sliabh Luachra Pub in Ballydesmond, with a host of
very well-known musicians from across the Munster region taking part. As well as the pub sessions, there was a very lively ceilí with Tim Joe & Anne in Ballydesmond Community Centre.
Kiskeam Concert 2026 Maurice O'Keeffe's Granddaughters Sharon & Rachel O'Connor
Moynihan TD
Millstreet Clinic
Second & Fourth Thursday Of the month 6:15-7:15 at Canon O’Donovan Centre.
Contact for appointment
Fáilteofar roimh comhfhreagras trí Ghaolainn Middle Square, Macroom, Co Cork
Tel: 026 23 346
Email: aindrias.moynihan@oireachtas.ie
Great Day Out for Dromtarriffe
Dromtarriffe had a super day out at St Paul's basketball blitz in Killarney recently. One of their players got player of the day local Garda Kathryn Canty & one of supporters Saoirse O Mahony won the free throw competition. They were delighted to attend and big thanks to coach Derry Kiely for all his hard work over the last few months in Dromtarriffe hall on a Monday night
Congratulations to Colin Mullane and Lynn Sterio who got married in The Woodlands Hotel Adare recently. Colin, Lynn, and their three children; Emma, twins Sophie and Harry, were joined by family and friends for the wonderful occasion. We wish Colin and Lynn a long, healthy, and happy life together!
Danielle O’Leary representing the Kerry Camogie team who were crowned National League Division 2 Champions over the weekend. With her parents Breda O’Leary & Dan O’Leary
Photography by Black Diamond Photography
ICA held a very successful coffee morning on
Day in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. Total amount raised was €2,814. Thank you to all who contributed
Boherbue
Daffodil
The Ned Tarrant Memorial Tractor Run 2026
Registering in Kilcorney hall and enjoying some refreshments before take-off were L-R: Dermot, Michael, and Anna Murphy.
Photos by TADHG CURTIN
Seamus Curtin took his Massey Ferguson 290 on the run.
L-R: Ciara Philpott, Katie O’Regan, Michael Kelleher, Matty Weathers and Lisa Quinn with her famous tractor; the Daisy Brown.
Flor McAulliffe travelling along the route.
Páidí Twomey attended the run on his fire truck.
Paddy Lucey and Mia Kiely waiting for the run to start.
The Tractor Run Committee members L-R: Dan Joe Collins, Johnny Sheehan, Matthew Sheehan, Patrick Buckley, Pat Cremin, and David Murphy enjoying the wonderful BBQ provided by and held afterwards at Healy’s Bar, Kilcorney.
Duhallow News
Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
By COLM CROWLEY
Ireland is undergoing a major transformation in how it produces and consumes energy, with a growing focus on affordability, sustainability, and reducing carbon emissions. As part of its climate commitments, the country aims to generate up to 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, placing clean energy at the centre of national policy.
One of the most significant contributors to Ireland’s clean energy transition is wind power. Due to its geographic location on the Atlantic coast, Ireland has some of the best wind resources in Europe. Large-scale wind farms, both onshore and offshore, now supply a substantial portion of the country’s electricity. This has helped reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, which are often subject to volatile global prices.
Solar energy is also beginning to expand rapidly. Although Ireland is not traditionally known for sunny weather, advances in solar panel technology have made it viable even in cloudy climates. Government incentives, such as The Sustainable Energy Authority
of Ireland (SEAI) €1,800 grants for residential solar installations, have encouraged households to generate their own electricity, lowering energy bills over time. Affordability remains a key concern for many Irish households, especially in the face of rising energy costs in recent years. To address this, the government has introduced various support schemes, including energy credits and home retrofit programs. Grants of up to €3,800 are available from SEAI through the Better Energy
Homes Scheme. These initiatives aim to improve energy efficiency by upgrading insulation, heating systems, and windows, ultimately reducing long-term energy expenses.
Another important development is the promotion of community
energy projects. These initiatives allow local groups to invest in and benefit from renewable energy generation, such as smallscale wind or solar farms. By decentralizing energy production, communities can gain more control over their energy use and costs, while also contributing to national sustainability goals.
Despite this progress, challenges remain. The expansion of renewable infrastructure requires significant investment in the national grid to ensure stability and reliability. Additionally, balancing affordability with the cost of transitioning to cleaner energy sources continues to be a complex issue for policymakers.
In conclusion, Ireland is making steady progress toward a future powered by affordable and clean energy. Through a combination of natural resources, technological innovation, and supportive government policies, the country is positioning itself as a leader in renewable energy. While challenges persist, the ongoing transition offers both environmental and economic benefits, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
What’s On In Duhallow
Kanturk
Weekly Newmarket
CYMS Hall
Newmarket Bridge Club
An Chultúrlann
Writers’ Circle
Time: 7:30pm
2nd Wednesday of Every Month
Share your stories, get inspired, and connect with fellow writers.For details, contact 087 640 6705
Rambling House
Time: 8pm
2nd Saturday of Every Month
An evening of traditional storytelling, music, and craic!
Newmarket Dementia Café
Time: 11am – 1pm
1st Thursday of each month. A welcoming place for people with dementia, their family and friends.
Social Dancing
Time: 9pm
Last Friday of Every Month –Dance the night away and meet new people!
Gneeveguilla
SHARE THE BUCKET
Time: 8:30PM,
Every Friday Evening
Cost: Tickets €2 each or 3 for €5 Tickets: Are available at Teach Fáilte and can be bought online at https:// tinyurl.com/y2ade5om or in local businesses where you see the Green Share the bucket
Mushera Platform Dancing
May 17th Ballinagree Village
June 24th St John’s Night
Mushera
July 26th Mushera
August 23rd Mushera
September 20th Balinagree village
Time: Every Tuesday at 7.30pm All members and newcomers are welcome. Contact Eugene on 086 3247041 for more information.
Taekwando
Time: Mondays at 5pm. Contact Niall on 0831106501 for more information.
Drama with Mike
Time: Every Thursday
1st &2nd class as 5pm. 3rd &4th 5th & 6th classes 6pm. Teen Drama classes 7pm.
Creative Writing Teen Classes Wednesday at 5pm. Contact Mike on 0874124741 to book a place.
Julie Nolan School of Irish Dancing
Time: Every Tuesday classes from 4.15 to 7.30. Contact Julie on 086 3516386 for more information.
Catherine O'Reilly Exercise Class
Time: Tuesdays from 10 to 11am Contact Catherine on 087 6800280 to book your place.
Better Balance Staying Fit For The Future
Time: Tuesdays 11am to 12. with Cork Sports Initiative. Contact Catherine 087 6800280 to book your place.
Music Lessons With John
Time: Thursdays Upstairs in hall. Contact 0872322751 to book
Kanturk Ladies Social Soccer
Time: Wednesdays from 8-9pm
Venue: Gurteenard, Kanturk
For all ladies 16 years and upwards. Fun, Excersise, Friendship
Any queries text Laura at 807 468 1407
Edel Quinn Hall
Tuesdays
Dancing with Dan: 8 - 10pm. All welcome
Foróige Youth Club: 7- 8.30pm in the Foróige room located at the front of the hall. Young People aged 12-17yrs. New members welcome. Contact 087-2065296
Wednesdays
Bingo: 8 - 9.30pm. Single & 3 sheets = €15, Double & 3 sheets = €17, Double & 6 sheets = €22.
Thursdays
Taekwondo: 6-8pm. New members Welcome.
Sundays
Christian Worship Service: 11am Fountain Gate Christian Church Bingo at 2pm: Last Sunday of Every Month
Temperance Hall
Tuesdays
Kanturk Fly Fishing Club 7 - 9pm. New members welcome.
Wednesdays
Kanturk Flower Club: Meet the first Wednesday of every month at 8pm.
Pilates
Monday, Tuesday & Friday Mornings
Grow Mental Health Meeting in Kanturk
Time: Every Monday at 2pm (Except Bank Holidays)
Venue: Linn Gorm Hall, Kanturk, P51 YC57
Grow is a 12 Step Support Programme for any person coping,and living with stress, anxiety, depression, or any issue in your life, creating worry and concern. The Meetings are small in numbers, free to attend, relaxed, confidential, friendly and anonymous.
Banteer
Banteer Ladies Social Soccer
Time: Every Tuesday 8pm-9pm
Venue: Banteer Indoor Astroturf
For all ladies 16+. Fun, Exercise and Friendship. Any queries Text
Laura: 087 468 1407
Glen Theatre Banteer
April 16th
Steve Knightley In Concert
May 1st
Tommy Fleming
May 4th & May 10th
The Glen Theatre Drama Group
Banteer presents: The Rain At The End Of The Summer, by John B. Keane
All shows at 8pm. Booking: www.glentheatrebanteer.ie/contact Phone 029 56239 (Ext 1)
Banteer Underage Soccer Camp
Time: Wed 22nd, Thurs 23rd and Fri 24th July
Garda Youth awards 2026
Cork North Gardai are seeking nominations from the Banteer Lyre Nadd local areas for the Garda Youth Awards. You have until the 17th of April to nominate promising young people who are contributing to making North Cork a better place to live.
Scan the QR code to find the nomination form
Tureencahill Community Centre Weekly Schedule
Monday: Yoga 6.45–7.45pm & 8–9pm (Contact Denise: 086 8901234)
Tuesday: Sean Nós Dance (Adults) 7–8pm, 6-week block (Contact Kieran: 085 1731073)
Wednesday: Bridge 1–4pm, Kids Kickboxing 4.30–5.30pm (Maurz: 089 4010475)
Kids Set Dancing 6–7pm (Marie: 083 0045432)
Thursday:
Monthly Pop-Up Gaeltacht Contact (086 3159744)
Friday: Active Retired 12.30–2pm Yoga 7–8pm & 8.15–9.15pm (Men only)
(Contact Denise: 086 8901234) Enquiries: 085 8771949 tureencahillcg@gmail.com
Dance Classes with Norella
Time: Every Wednesday @ 8.15pm
Venue: Ballydesmond Community Centre.
Admission: €10 pay as you go. Learn to dance the jive, waltz, quickstep, line dancing and more. Great exercise, good fun. No partner needed.
KNOCKNAGREE LADIES FOOTBALL CLUB
Our Junior Players and management are activity seeking new or returning players and additional coaches to compliment the existing management . The County League starts in March and training has resumed , please check out our social media for up to date training info . New players from age 4 to adult are welcome as well as new volunteers, coaches & FLO’s Please contact Chairperson Catherine on 083 3498778 for any information on our Club
Gig Guide
For Parents Donoughmore
Parent and Toddler Group
Donoughmore Community Hall Stuake, Co. Cork, P32 FP49 Monday 9.30 - 11.30
Millstreet
Parent and Toddler Group
GAA Hall, Millstreet, Co. Cork P51V577 Monday 9.30am-12pm
Newtownshandrum
Parent and Toddler Group
Community Hall, Newtownshandrum, Charleville. Friday 10am-11am
Newmarket Breastfeeding Support Group
Time: 11.00am to 12.00pm. Venue: Castlecourt, Newmarket, Co. Cork.
Facilitated by PHN. Just drop in or phone 02961500. Breastfeeding mums and expectant mums are welcome.
Freemount Social Dancing
Time: Sundays 3 to 5:30pm
Venue: Freemount Community Centre P56 P893
Admission: €10
Strictly Adults only. Refreshments will be served. For more information: 083 458 9222 Set Dancing in Aubane
Venue: Aubane Community Centre P51 EP49
Time: Every Monday at 9pm
Clara Loop
IRD Duhallow are currently undertaking improvement works to The Clara Loop. We will endeavour to keep the trail open at all times. We ask all walkers to take caution and personal responsibility for your own safety. If you need any further info please call 029 60633
Gig Guide
Rás Tailteann Stage 2: Rathmore, Co Kerry to Banteer, (Distance: 182.9 KM) Thursday, May 21st, 2026
Maurice O’Keeffe Festival
25th Annual Maurice O’Keeffe Festival
CONT’D FROM FRONT
Two All-Ireland Fleadh competition winners—Joseph Mannion, accordion player from Waterford, and John Paul Reynolds, fiddle player from Kerry—facilitated two outstanding workshops which were attended by both younger and older people. The Fiddle and Duet Competitions had young people from Cork, Kerry, and Limerick taking part. The overall winner of the Fiddle Competition was Olivia Tarrant from Ballydesmond, and the overall winners of the Duet Competition were sisters Tara and Laura Reidy from Tournafulla.
Two concerts were organised with a fantastic line-up of both local and professional performers who took to the stage and entertained the audiences on both nights. A special tribute to the late Geraldine O’Callaghan was performed by her friends from the Allow Ceilí Band, with whom she had played. A group from Scully’s, Newmarket, paid a special tribute to the late Siobhán Cronin, who was a regular musician at all local sessions, especially in Scully’s Newmarket, and had attended and joined in Maurice O’Keeffe’s pub sessions down through the years.
Presentation to Máire O'Keeffe by Chairperson Maurice O'Keeffe Festival Cllr Bernard Moynihan & Maura McGahey Committe member & daughter of Maurice O’Keeffe
U 15 & Overall Duet Winners Tara & Laura Reidy Tournafulla recieving their trophies from Rachel O'Connor. Competition Judges John Coakley & Maura O’Connor
The O’Keeffe family, along with committee members, wish to thank all sponsors of the festival, including Cork County Council, IRD Duhallow, Why Not & Shamrocks Pubs in Kiskeam, and Sliabh Luachra Pub in Ballydesmond, as well as the local business people who very kindly supported the festival for this special year and over the past 25 years. Thanks to the performers, the audiences who travelled from near and far, and the volunteers who helped out - you all contributed to making the festival such a success and an enjoyable weekend.
15
Overall Fiddle Competition winner Olivia Tarrant being presented with Cup by Rachel O'Connor & Competition Judges John Coakley & Maura O'Connor
U
Fiddle Competition Winner Rachel Kelly Newmarket with John Coakley Rachel O'Connor & Maura O'Connor
Photos by Sheila Fitzgerald
Maurice O’Keeffe Festival
Musical tribute to the late Siobhan Cronin Reanagoshill Scullys Trad Band Newmarket - Eilish Murphy Raymond O' Sullivan Ross McAuliffe John Walsh Henry Keogh Con Herbert, Michael O’Connor
O'Keeffe Family Members - Cork Kerry Tyrone UK & USA pictured at Kiskeam Community Centre
West Kerry Band CUAS in Concert Saturday night - Kyle MaCaulay Niamh Barry Méabh Ní Bheaglaoich Nicole Delaney
Kiskeam Concert 2026 Donie Nolan & Liam Flanagan
Kiskeam Concert 2026 Conor Moriarty, Deirdre Ní Meachair & Michael Coult
L-R: Back Row Elisha Daly Darrah Curtin Conor Herlihy
Dara Brosnan Kevin Cremin Ellen Daly Front Row Evanne O Mahony Katie Cremin Clodagh Brosnan Nina O Mahony
Maurice O’Keeffe Festival
Allow Ceilí Band Members front row: Con Herbert, Méabh & Eimear Buckley, John Carroll. Back row: Diarmuid O Brien Clodagh Buckley Graham Guerin (Late Geraldine O Callaghan’s husband) John Collins Adrian McAuliffe Gerry Nunan
Sharon O'Connor Margaret O Connor Rachel O'Connor & Bryan O'Leary
Musicians taking part in Sunday night Concert Bryan O'Leary Jackie Daly Paul de Grae Matt Cranitch & Michael O'Connor
Music workshop tutors Joseph Mannion & John Paul Reynolds
Maura O'Connor Conor Daly Alan Finn & Eddie Kiely
Hannah Mary & Lisa Cronin Family of the late Siobhan Cronin in attendance at Sunday night concert
Musical Fundraiser for Dermot Lyons
Musicians from Cork, Kerry, Limerick and Tipperary will join forces for a fundraising dance at the CYMS Hall in Newmarket, Co. Cork on Friday, May 1st.
Monies raised on the night will go to Charleville musician Dermot Lyons who is currently dealing with serious health issues.
Dermot, originally from Caherconlish in Limerick, is married to Martina and the couple have four young children. Prior to becoming ill, Dermot was employed at MD O’ Sheas and was also well known on the music circuit throughout Ireland. “My recovery is very slow and I’ve had some bumps on the road so far but my thanks to the wonderful Cardiac Clinic in UHL for their superb care and to my colleagues in the music world for all their help” Dermot said.
Recent Glór Tíre contestant Dee Morrissey will make the journey from Tipperary to take part, Marian Kirby from Limerick will be on stage, Eddie Lee and Jake Coffey from Kerry are on the bill, as well as Sheila Fitzgerald from Ballydesmond, Pat Daly from Midleton and Michael Twomey who is a native of Baile Mhúirne.
Meanwhile, over the past four months, musician friends have organised numerous fundraising events all around Munster for the family. The benefit event in Newmarket is organised by Knocknagree native John Joe Herlihy who is well known to dancing audiences throughout Munster.
John Joe said he is hoping for a record attendance in Newmarket. “Dermot Lyons is a young husband and father, until a few months ago he was out doing gigs and entertaining the public all across Munster. His sudden illness reminds us of how fragile our health can be. We are delighted, with the help of all our musician friends, to be able to help Dermot and his family, at least financially, at this very difficult time”
While admission on the night is just €10, those attending are welcome to give whatever amount they wish at the door. Doors are open at 8pm, music and dancing will commence at 8.30pm. Further information can be found on John Joe Herlihy’s Facebook Page
Dermot Lyons
Millstreet Moments
Photos by Séanie Radley
The brilliant Cast of the hilarious Comedy "Wake in the West" currently being performed at Banteer's Glen Theatre - taking a half-time break!
Some of the splendid Classic Cars participating in the recent Blackwater Valley Vintage event which set out from Aubane.
Divine Mercy Sunday 2026 ceremony at St. Patrick's Church, Millstreet.
Day three of the prestigious Rás Mumhan Annual Cycle Race setting out from Millstreet on Easter Sunday morning.
Millstreet Pipe Band taking part in the Easter Commemoration 110th event at The Square, Millstreet.
The impressive gathering at the annual Easter Commemoration event at Millstreet Monument during which the late Jerry Lehane was especially remembered.
Duhallow News
Photographed by Roger Joanes in the 1960sMillstreet Railway Station 1964 - Note the Island Platform and Railway Cabin - no longer part of the 1853 Station. Delighted to have this superb photo in our Millstreet Museum Pictorial Archives.
Mallow Search and Rescue vehicle leaves Aubane at the recent Classic Car Run fundraising event organised by Blackwater Valley Vintage Group on behalf of Mallow Search and Rescue.
The superb Cast of "Wake in the West" receiving a standing ovation following their brilliant presentation on Easter Monday night.
Members of Millstreet Church Choir participating in the Easter Vigil Ceremony in St. Patrick's Church, Millstreet.
Short Message, Big Meaning
By ALICE O’BRIEN Alice O’Brien Counselling, Newmarket
We are all well acquainted with the long ramblings we often get on our phone. Usually a text message or a WhatsApp message, they may require a lot of scrolling to get to the end. Contained within is often instructions for matches or details of upcoming hen weekends, or maybe even a schedule for future events or plans. They fill our phones but they do not have any major part in our daily routine. It is the short messages that mean the mostyou know the ones- messages like ‘be there in 5 mins’ ‘leaving now’ ‘need anything in town’ or ‘how are things’. Those short messages
that say it all. The ones that mean so much more than the essays we receive at other times. Why are they so important? Could it be because they mean a lot more than they say?
A message like ‘I’ll be 2 mins’ is really saying ‘I’m here to listen and give you my time’. This reinforces connection, reminding us that we are not alone and as humans, we are wired for social bonding. A message like ‘need anything’
might actually mean ‘I was thinking of you and I can help’. It keeps the communication open and invites us to ask for help when it can be difficult to do so. .
A message like ‘look at this’ often accompanied by a funny meme or picture can provide distraction and lift the mood. A message like ‘give me a shout if you need me’ can validate feelings in a quiet way, helping people to feel seen and understood.
So, take out your phone and look at your treads- those long treads of short messages are often the most meaningful relationships you have. In an overwhelming world, these short messages can be the anchor we need to feel emotions like kindness and connection. So, get typing.
Introducing Nutrition Therapist Shay Kearney at New Leaf Kanturk
By MAIREAD O’KEEFFE New Leaf Health Store
We are absolutely delighted to welcome nutrition therapist Shay Kearney to New Leaf in Kanturk.
With nearly 30 years’ experience in the field of health and wellbeing, Shay brings a depth of knowledge that our customers have always valued. Many of you will remember her practical, down-to-earth approach — cutting through confusion and helping people understand what truly works for their own body.
Shay has also spent over a decade teaching Biomedicine and Nutrition Therapy with the College of Naturopathic Medicine, something she says has been an invaluable part of her own learning
journey. Her passion for education really shines through in her consultations, where each person is treated as completely individual — because there is no one-sizefits-all when it comes to health.
One of the key tools Shay uses is advanced functional testing, including the Organic Acids Test (OAT). This test gives a detailed insight into how the body is functioning on a metabolic level, helping to uncover issues such as gut imbalance, nutrient deficiencies, detoxification challenges and energy production. It can be particularly helpful for those struggling with ongoing or unexplained symptoms.
Shay will be available for consultations in Kanturk on a monthly basis, starting this May on Friday 1st May. We will also be hosting a talk in-store soon for
anyone curious about how nutrition therapy works and how testing like OAT can support your health journey.
Appointments can be booked directly through New Leaf 029 51922
We’re so excited to have Shay back with us and know many of you will benefit from her thoughtful, personalised approach.
Shay Kearney
Bringing Healthy Food Closer to Homes in Duhallow
By MARIIA PALCHAK
Since 2025, IRD Duhallow has been proud to take part in the Community Food Initiative, supporting healthier eating habits across our rural communities. The initiative focuses on making good food accessible, affordable, and practical.
Through CFI, IRD Duhallow has delivered a range of simple, hands-on activities that bring nutrition into everyday life. Over the past year, local communities have benefited from dietitian talks offering clear, practical advice, as well as cooking demonstration workshops showing how to prepare healthy meals using everyday ingredients on
a budget. Younger members of the community have also been involved, with fruit and vegetable tastings and food-art sessions in local afterschool settings, helping children explore new flavours in a fun and relaxed way.
Looking ahead to 2026, we are continuing to build on this work. A series of family cooking workshops will take place over four consecutive Tuesdays in May, encouraging households
to cook and learn together. As part of the Bealtaine Festival, a special dietitian talk will focus on healthy eating for healthy ageing, supporting wellbeing in later life. The “Super Plate” challenge in afterschool settings will help children understand balanced meals—learning how to include the right mix of grains, proteins, and greens. This activity will be supported by an online session for parents, helping to lay the foundation for positive, lasting changes in family eating habits. IRD Duhallow remains committed to supporting healthier communities, one practical step at a time.
‘Dromtarriffe Goes Country’
Set
To Liven
Up
The Summer Of 2026!
Dromtarriffe GAA Club are proud to announce two dates that you can save in your event diary for 2026.
The main date and event is Dromtarriffe Goes Country, a country music afternoon they will be running on Sunday, June 28th form 1pm - 7:30pm on the Dromtarriffe GAA Grounds in Rathcoole, Co. Cork. The main artists on the day will be Robert Mizzell, Claudia Buckley, Jack Keogh, ‘Fiddlin’ ‘ Mags McCarthy, and Brendan Shine, who will all be backed by the Conquerors Band. Tickets are €30 and are non refundable, with free entry for those under 14 years of age, accompanied by an adult. Tickets are available to purchase locally or can be booked online by scanning the QR code on the poster below OR by visiting www.gr8events.ie/dromtariffe-goes-country
The second date and event is the official launch of Dromtarriffe Goes Country, occurring on Saturday, April 18th at 9pm, in the Sandpit House. It promises to be a great night ahead of the main event, getting the word out for what promises to be a highlight of this summer.
You can keep up to date with Dromtarriffe Goes Country by following the club’s Facebook page - Dromtarriffe GAA.
Crossword sponsored by Duhallow Community Food Services
Across
1. Aquatic mammal (5)
4. Striped equine (5)
7. Watered (9)
8. Flows back (4)
10. Tennis stoke (5)
13. Assumed name (5)
14. Disparaging remark (4)
17. Essential (9)
19. Rear part of a ship (5)
20. Smooth fabric (5)
Down
1. Relinquished (6)
2. Atmosphere (3)
3. Boundary of a surface (4)
4. Stringed instrument (6)
5. Confound (7)
6. Desiccated (4)
9. State of equilibrium (7)
11. Bird of prey (6)
12. Implement for writing or drawing (6)
15. Optical device (4)
16. Small snakes (4)
18. Colony insect (3)
Solution: Issue 161: April 3rd, 2026
Duhallow
Complete the crossword and post with your name and contact details to:
Discover Duhallow Puzzle Competition, James O’Keeffe Institute Newmarket, Co. Cork
Or simply scan completed puzzle or take a snap with your phone email to discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com
Terms & Conditions: Deadline for submissions is noon on Friday, MONTH ##th 2025.
First correct entry drawn will win a €20 voucher, valid for three months from date of issue, to be redeemed for food at the Duhallow Community Food Services. No cash alternative. Winner will be named in subsequent issue of Discover Duhallow. One entry per person. No correspondence will be entered into. Voucher to be collected from Duhallow Community Food Services, Newmarket.
Congratulations to Mary Browne, Charleville who wins a €20 voucher for Duhallow Community Food Services! To be in with
Interest
April - Month of the Most Holy Eucharist
By TOM DENNEHY
Dedicating April to the Holy Eucharist allows us to focus our hearts and minds on the profound mystery of the Eucharist—the real presence of Jesus Christ, body, blood, soul and divinity. The month of April holds special significance in the Catholic Church as it is the month of the Holy Eucharist, also known as the Blessed Sacrament. God communicates grace to the faithful through all the Church Sacraments, but the Holy Eucharist communicates the Author of Grace, Himself. It is the body, blood, soul, and divinity of Christ with us.
Why is April Dedicated to the Holy Eucharist?
For centuries, the Catholic Church has designated a specific devotion for each month of the year. April has traditionally been dedicated to the Holy Eucharist. This is thought to be due to the Sacred Triduum, the three days immediately proceeding Easter, most often falling in April. On the first day of the Triduum, Holy Thursday, Christ instituted the Holy Eucharist at the Last Supper. The Church offers various liturgical celebrations, devotions and reflections on the Holy Eucharist in April to emphasize the fundamental truth that the consecrated Bread and Wine are Christ Himself renewing His sacrifice upon the altar. And hidden under the appearance of the Host, He is substantially bodily present in all the tabernacles of the world, mindful of His promise that He will never leave us nor forsake us.
Saint Clare shows the power of the Eucharist.
In the year 1224, an army of
soldiers under the command of Frederick II marched to attack Assisi, the place where St. Clare and her new community of religious sisters were living. St. Clare, even while extremely ill at the time, went into the church and took the host of Jesus into her hands and held it up before the oncoming soldiers for all to see, crying aloud: “O Lord, protect these Sisters whom I cannot protect now.” When the soldiers’ gaze fell upon the host, they immediately fled.
Preparation time for Our Children.
The month of April is a time for our children to fully prepare for their first Holy Communion which usually takes place in May and is a very significant time in their young lives.
We have many great saints to look to for inspiration such as Saint Carlo Acutis who was canonized last year. From the time it was first explained to him that Jesus makes himself truly present under the form of bread and wine, he was fascinated by it. He was only 7 years, but he wanted to make his First Holy Communion as soon as possible. Even though the normal age for making one’s first Holy Communion in Italy was 10, he was given special permission to receive while still only 7. Then when he was allowed to receive Holy Communion, on his First Communion day, he promised Jesus that he would attend Mass each day for the rest of his life if it was at all possible.
He kept this promise and the three people who took turns bringing him to Mass ended up coming to love the Mass also. They included his mother who hadn’t been to Church since her own confirmation, his father
who had little time for the faith and his carer, Rajesh, who was Hindu. Saint Carlo is now the Patron Saint of Our Young People and his famous quotation is “The Eucharist is the Highway to Heaven.”
Little Nellie of Holy God
We also have our own special girl from Cork, Little Nellie of Holy God, who spent her last months at the Good Shepherd Convent in Cork. Confined to her cot with spinal tuberculosis, she craved the Eucharist and when asked what Holy Communion was, she said, “Communion is Holy God, I receive Him on my tongue and he goes down into my heart and makes me and the nuns and the other children holy.” On the strength of that answer, the Bishop allowed Nellie, though only barely 4 years old, to receive the Sacrament. Shortly after her death, Pope Pius X lowered the age of first Holy Communion from 12 years, citing Little Nellie as his inspiration.
Let us treasure the great gift of the Eucharist and make the month of April a time when we will spend more time in Adoration. Let us commit to one hour per week as it is the most productive time we can spend on this earth. It is a foretaste of Heaven and an opportunity to foster a deeper relationship with Jesus, truly present.
