BALLINASCREEN & DESERTMARTIN PARISHES 1_NOVEMBER_2026
No. 53 ~ FEAST OF ALL SAINTS
PARISH CONTACT DETAILS
Fr. Peter Madden PP VF
31 Sixtowns Road
Telephone: 79628376
Fr Michael McCaul CC
50 Tobermore Road, Desertmartin
Telephone: 79632196
Email: desertmartinparish@gmail.com
PARISH OFFICES
Ballinascreen:
9 High Street
Phone: (028)79628248
Opening Hours: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday: 8.45 am - 3.30 pm. Wednesday: 8.45 am - 3.00 pm.
Desertmartin:
St Patrick’s Keenaught
Phone: (028)79397047
Email: desertmartinparish@gmail.com
Opening Hours: Wednesday and Thursday 10.30 am to 3.00 pm.
SAFEGUARDING
Safeguarding Contact Information
If you have any concerns with regard to the safeguarding of children within the Church, please contact:
Marie O’Kane - Diocesan Designated Liaison Person (DLP) Tel.: +44 7596 500793 or Email: dlp@derrydiocese.org
Northern Ireland Emergency Services
PSNI (Police Service of Northern Ireland): 101
Social Services:
Gateway Services, Western HSC Trust: 028 7131 4090 (ask for the Duty Social Worker)
Gateway Services, Northern HSC Trust: 028 9442 4459
Regional Emergency Social Work Services: 0800 1979 995
LIFELINE
Tel: 0808 808 8000 / Textphone 18001 0808 808 8000.
SVP HELPLINE
Helpline telephone number: 07710838050
GAMBLING HELPLINE
Help is available, phone: 02871351329
SPERRIN FOODBANK
Tel: 07543420639
BALLINASCREEN COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUP
Please click the link https://www.parishofballinascreen.com/ballinascreen-community-support-gro for full details of Ballinascreen Community Support Group.
NOTICES FOR THE BULLETIN
Notices for the Bulletin should be received by 1.00 pm on Wednesday, preferably by email.
Email: desertmartinparish@gmail.com
VIGIL MASSES FOR SUNDAY
Holy Rosary: 6.00 pm
St Patrick’s, Keenaught: 4.30 pm - NB New Time
SUNDAY MASSES
St Columba’s, Straw: 9.00 am
St Mary’s, Coolcalm: 10.00 am
St Patrick’s, Sixtowns: 11.00 am
St Eugene’s, Moneyneena: 12 noon
MASSES FOR THIS WEEK
Monday ~ 2 November - All Souls' Day
7.00 am ~ Holy Rosary Church.
10.00 am ~ St Mary’s Coolcalm.
10.00 am ~ St Eugene’s, Moneyneena.
11.00 am ~ St Patrick’s, Sixtowns.
7.30 pm ~ St Columba’s, Straw.
7.30 pm ~ St Patrick’s, Keenaught.
Tuesday ~ 3 November
10.00 am ~ St Mary's, Coolcalm
Wednesday ~ 4 November
10.00 am ~ Holy Rosary Church.
Thursday ~ 5 November
10.00 am ~ St Mary's, Coolcalm.
Friday ~ 6 November
10.00 am ~ St. Mary’s, Coolcalm.
7.30 pm ~ Holy Rosary Church.
CONFESSIONS
Ballinascreen: Holy Rosary 5.30 pm - before Vigil Mass.
FEASTS OF THE WEEK
Monday 2 November: All Soul’s Day.
Tuesday 3 November: St Malachy.
Wednesday 4 November: St Charles Borromeo.
Thursday 5 November: St Martin de Porres.
Friday 6 November: All the Saints of Ireland.
Saturday 7 November: St Willibrord.
MASS TIMES FOR MONDAY 2 NOVEMBER - ALL SOULS' DAY
7.00 am ~ Holy Rosary Church.
10.00 am ~ St Mary’s Coolcalm.
10.00 am ~ St Eugene’s, Moneyneena.
11.00 am ~ St Patrick’s, Sixtowns.
7.30 pm ~ St Columba’s, Straw.
7.30 pm ~ St Patrick’s, Keenaught.
DERRY DIOCESAN SOCIETY
If you wish to enrol someone in the society, please contact the parish office. The fee for a living or deceased member is £20. Prayers for the happy repose of the souls of the recently deceased members and all deceased members of the Derry Diocesan Society will take place at the Masses on the weekends of 7/8 November and 14/15 November.
VIATORES CHRISTI PARISH VISIT
Members of Viatores Christi will speak at Masses in this parish during the Saturday Vigil and the Sunday Masses on the Weekend of 7/8 November. Viatores Christi (VC), is an association of Catholic lay missionary/development workers, founded in 1960 .VC brings about positive change by improving access to healthcare, education and livelihood opportunities in the marginalised communities in which we work. We want to raise awareness about the missionary work of the Church and the role of lay missionaries, both at home and overseas. Thank the people of the Derry Diocese for your support for our work over the years. We would like to offer an opportunity and preparation to anyone who feels called to volunteer. And we appeal for ongoing help both financially and above all through prayer. There will be an exit collection in aid of the work of VC.
MASS IN HONOUR OF PADRE PIO
The monthly mass in honour of St. Pio of Pietrelcina will be celebrated on Monday 9 November at 7.30 pm in Holy Rosary Church. Novena prayers and rosary at 7.00 pm. Adoration from 12 noon until 7.30 pm.
ANNUAL MASS FOR DECEASED PARISHIONERS
Tuesday 17 November at 7.30 pm in Holy Rosary Church.
Wednesday 18 November at 7.30 pm in St Patrick's Keenaught.
The names of all who died or were buried in our parish since last year’s Parish Mass of Remembrance will be read out at this Mass. After all the names have been read out, a member of each of these bereaved families, will be invited to carry a lit candle to the altar. Each family should ensure that an adult has been selected to represent them. Candles will be provided at the back of the church during this Mass.
MONTH'S MIND MASS
The Month's Mind Mass for Rose Convery, Derrynoid Rd., will take place on Friday 6 November at 7.30 pm in Holy Rosary Church.
The Month's Mind Mass for Marie Bradley, Glenelly Villas, will take place on Friday 6 November at 7.30 pm in Holy Rosary Church.
The Month's Mind Mass for Annmarie Mongan RIP, Crewe, England, will take place on Friday 6 November at 7.30 pm in Holy Rosary Church.
FIRST ANNIVERSARY MASS
The First Anniversary Mass for John Joe Shaw, Grange Lane, will be held on Friday 6 November at 10.00 am in St Mary’s Church, Coolcalm.
ANNIVERSARIES
Ballinascreen:
Dessie Diamond, Glenshane Pk.;
James McGlade, Bradley Drive;
Mary McKenna, The Fold;
Patrick Kelly, Corrick Rd.;
Peter Rogers, Drumderg Rd.;
Elizabeth Quinn, Gortnaskea Rd.;
Annie McBride, Cavanreagh Rd.;
Kathleen Toner, Drumard Rd.
Rose McWilliams, Drumderg Rd.;
Patrick McEldowney, Cloane Rd.
Desertmartin:
Peter McKenna;
James O’Hagan;
Fran Fullen;
Annie Mary Fullen;
Denis McBride;
Brendan O’Neill;
Terence McKay;
Matilda Bradley;
Penny Morgan;
Frances Wilson.
PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES WITH BISHOP MICHAEL ROUTER
The Derry Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes led by Bishop Michael Router will take place in July 2027. There are TWO possible travel arrangements available to all pilgrims. A group will depart from City of Derry Airport on Thursday 8 July 2027 and return to City of Derry Airport on Tuesday 13 July 2027. A second group will depart from Belfast Airport on Wednesday 7 July and return to Belfast Airport on Wednesday 14 July. Any pilgrim interested in going should leave their name, contact details and flight preference with either Fr Michael McCaul, Fr Peter Madden or in the Parish Offices as soon as possible. Please note that the pilgrimage last year was sold out in 10 days.
FATIMA PILGRIMAGE
Fully escorted group to Fatima accompanied by Spiritual Director, 28 June – 5 July 2027. Direct Daytime Flights Belfast to Porto return. Staying in 4* Hotel. Full Board. Services of JWT Pilgrimage Guide. Daily Mass & Spiritual Activities. Cost £975pps. Early Booking Offer: £100 OFF if Paid In Full by 30 November 2026. Further details contact Christina Lagan 07803192621
PARISH COLLECTIONS
Ballinascreen:
Weekly Collection - £1299
Renovation Collection - £1482.50
Mission Collection - £121.15 (Total now: £1511.15)
Desertmartin:
Weekly Collection - £951.68
Mission Collection - £582
Thank you for your generous support which is greatly appreciated.
CHOIR DIRECTOR: ST EUGENE’S CATHEDRAL, DERRY
10 hours per week: St Eugene’s Cathedral is recruiting for an experienced choir director to lead and manage all aspects of the cathedral choir. They will ensure that the music enhances worship services and aligns with the church’s liturgical themes. For a job description and application pack - Tel.: (028) 7126 2302 or Email: recruitment@derrydiocese.org. Submit completed applications to Personnel, Bishop’s House, St Eugene’s Cathedral, Francis Street, Derry, BT48 9AP, or Email to: recruitment@derrydiocese.org. Applications to be received by noon on Thursday 12 November 2026.
DERRY DIOCESE VOCATIONS
There will be a meeting for anyone considering a vocation to the diocesan priesthood, in Derry, on Sunday 8 November, beginning at 4.00 pm. For further details, please contact the Diocesan Vocations Director, Fr Pat O'Hagan - Email: pgoh2111@gmail.com or Tel.: (028) 79386259.
TROCAIRE IS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS
To help deliver school talks during our annual Lent Appeal during February and March 2027. We are particularly interested in hearing from people with public speaking experience, especially retired teachers or those who have worked with young people. Volunteers will visit local schools during school hours to share stories of hope, justice and solidarity from communities around the world. The role involves approximately 1-2 short talks per week during the four-month campaign period. Full training, presentation materials and ongoing support will be provided. Please contact Fionnuala McGuinness on 028 9080 8033 or fionnuala.mcguinness@trocaire.org by the first week of December if you are interested!
MATT TALBOT PRAYER SOCIETY MONTHLY MASS
On Monday 2 November at 7.30 pm in St Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry. Everyone welcome: Mass is offered for enrolled members of the society and their families. Anyone dealing with addiction or within their families is encouraged to attend. Spiritual Packs for the Protection of family homes from Drugs will be distributed after Mass. To enrol please email: vita@matttalbotprayersociety.com
WARM WELCOME WEDNESDAY
In Workspace Community Hub on Wednesday 4 November from 11.00 am to 1.00 pm – ‘Coping with Grief and Loss’ Session. We will be joined by Inspire Wellbeing at 11.45 am. An all-island charity focused on mental health, intellectual disabilities & addiction support. This session explores the impact of loss & includes reflective activities while learning healthy coping strategies. Drop in on the day. Free tea, coffee and refreshments.
HAEMOCHROMATOSIS COFFEE EVENING
Free event, for anyone who suffers with haemochromatosis, waiting on diagnoses or family & friends, to learn more & support one another. Neil from haemochromatosis UK will be in attendance, to answer questions & offer advice & guidance. Venue: The Community Hub (next to library), Draperstown on Wednesday 11 November from 6.30 pm to 8.00 pm. All welcome.
BALLINASCREEN HISTORICAL SOCIETY
A talk entitled "Local parish registers' Hidden Stories" by Patsy McShane on Tuesday November 3 in the Community Hub at 8.00 pm. Everyone welcome.
CHILDREN'S HALLOWEEN DISCO
At Tirgan Hall on Sunday 1 November from 3 to 5.00 pm. Fancy dress. £5 entry includes treat bag. Parental supervision required
ST MARTIN’S GAC DESERTMARTIN
Congratulations to all our players on achieving a successful win at the weekend. Onward and upwards.
RANGANNA GAEILGE / IRISH LANGUAGE CLASSES
Join a growing community to learn Irish in a fun, welcoming environment! A New Christmas Themed 6-week course is starting on Monday 9 November in St Mary’s Hall, Desertmartin, wrapping up with a festive Céili Na Nollaig (Christmas Céili) in the pub during Christmas week.
Bunrang (Beginners): 6:45pm – 8.00 pm.
Meanrang (Improvers): 8.00 pm – 9:30 pm
Spaces are limited. To book a place - Email: knocknaginhc@gmail.com, or Tel.: Edward 07835161927 / Gerard 02879631744.
KNOCKNAGIN HALL
Craft Fair: Sunday 8 November from 10:30 am to 3.00 pm. Santa will visit from 11.00 am to 2.00 pm! A wonderful selection of handmade treasures from talented crafters from all over Mid-Ulster! Over 25 stalls packed with handmade goodies! festive decorations and so much more — there’s something for everyone! Support local crafters, find unique Christmas presents and enjoy a lovely festive day out! Bring the children along to meet Santa and get into the Christmas spirit! Spread the word and bring your family and friends — we look forward to seeing you there!
SARSFIELD’S ACCORDION BAND.
Band practice on Thursday evenings at 7:30pm. New and past members are welcome to come along.
SIXTOWNS CROSS COMMUNITY GROUP
Indoor Bowls: Mondays at 8.15 pm. New Members Welcome.
Christmas Fair with Santa: Sunday 29 November 2026 at Sixtowns Hall. Tables are booking up fast. £20 per table or £30 for two. To book Tel.: 07769 289385
Social Dance Classes every Tuesday night at 8.30 pm. All Welcome.
GAELSCOIL & NAÍSCOIL NA SPEIRÍNÍ - OPEN AFTERNOON
Sunday 15 November from 1.00 pm to 3.00 pm. Parents and children who are ready for Primary 1 and Nursery in September 2027 are very welcome to visit the school and meet with staff and pupils. Fun Activities for all. Santa Claus will be there to meet all the children too.
BINGO FOR BALI
Join us for an evening of fun bingo, laughter and great prizes as we raise funds for occupational therapy equipment for underprivileged children in Bali. Saturday 14 November in An Ráth Dubh, Moneyneany. Doors open at 7.00 pm, eyes down at 7:30 pm. Tickets £15, available at Centra, Draperstown; Heron’s Chemist; or Spar, Tobermore. Or contact Katie at 07834276636 or Amy on 07517079916. All support greatly appreciated!
PARISH BAPTISMS 2026
Ballinascreen Parish:
All bookings to be made via Ballinascreen Parish Office on 02879628248 or Email: ballinascreenparish@gmail.com
Baptisms will be held at 3.00 pm on the following dates:
8 November, St Eugene’s Moneyneena.
29 November, Holy Rosary Church.
6 December, St. Patrick's, Sixtowns.
13 December, St. Columba's, Straw.
20 December, St Eugene’s Moneyneena.
27 December, Holy Rosary Church.
Desertmartin Parish:
To book a baptism, contact Fr McCaul on 02879632196 or Desertmartin Parish Office on 02879397047. Baptisms can be held in either church and are held at 1.30 pm on the following dates:
November 8 & 22 2026
December 6 & 20 2026
January 10 & 24 2027
February 7 & 21 2027
March 7 & 14 2027
April 4 & 18 2027
NOTICES FOR THE BULLETIN
Notices should be received by 1.00 pm on Wednesday, preferably emailed to ballinascreenparish@gmail.com
PARISH ANNIVERSARY MASS & MONTH’S MIND MASSES
If you wish to have a deceased loved one prayed for at any Anniversary Friday Mass, please email their name to the Parish Office by 1.00 pm on Wednesday of the relevant week. Notices for First Anniversary and Month's Mind Masses should be received before 1.00 pm on Wednesday of the previous week so that, they may be printed in the Bulletin the weekend before the Anniversary Mass.
PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS
For the future priests of our diocese, the men who will preach the Good News of the Beatitudes (today's Gospel) - the happiness that comes from persevering in faith, and trusting in the goodness and mercy of Almighty God through the ups and downs of life.
