Bealtaine Dawn Mass

IRD Duhallow Dawn Mass

The celebration of new beginnings

By STEPHANIE MOYNIHAN

For the launch of the Duhallow Bealtaine Festival, IRD Duhallow, alongside the Duhallow SAOI network, were delighted to celebrate the annual Dawn Mass at the Source of the Blackwater on the 23rd of March 2022. Blessed with wonderfully mild and sunny weather, a very special and wonderful morning was enjoyed by all. Mass was celebrated by Father Tarrant of Ballydesmond was accompanied by a delightful musical performance by Anne Marie Lehane and her son Luke. The location of the Source of Blackwater symbolises the start of new life and deep appreciation and love for nature, which Father Tarrant so fittingly emphasised during the celebration of mass. Afterwards, delicious treats were served by Duhallow Community Food Services. This Dawn Mass had to be held at this earlier time, rather than its usual date in May, due to the breeding of protected species and licenses.

Top photo: Father Tarrant and Tom Dennehy, Kiskeam

IRD Duhallow CEO Ms Maura Walsh and Father Tarrant of Ballydesmond at the Source of the Blackwater

Delicious treats served by Duhallow Community Food Services

Maura Walsh addressing more than sixty guests at this year's Dawn Mass

Duhallow Community Food Services serving beautifully prepared teas & coffees to all guests

Maura Walsh, along with other visitors, warming up with a nice cup of tea after the Dawn Mass