BALLINASCREEN & DESERTMARTIN PARISHES 26_JULY_2026
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No. 39 ~ SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
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 - SATURDAY 25 JULY
Holy Rosary: 6.00 pm
St Patrick’s, Keenaught: 7.30 pm
SUNDAY MASSES - SUNDAY 26 JULY
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 ~ 27 July
10.00 am ~ Holy Rosary Church.
Tuesday ~ 28 July
10.00 am ~ St. Mary’s, Coolcalm. DDS Mass.
Wednesday ~ 29 July
10.00 am ~ Holy Rosary Church.
Thursday ~ 30 July
10.00 am ~ St Mary's, Coolcalm
Friday ~ 31 July
10.00 am ~ St. Mary’s, Coolcalm.
7.30 pm ~ Holy Rosary.
CONFESSIONS
Ballinascreen: Holy Rosary 5.30 pm - before Vigil Mass.
Desertmartin: Keenaught, Saturday 6.30 pm until 7.10 pm.
FEASTS OF THE WEEK
Wednesday 29 July: Ss Martha, Mary and Lazarus.
Thursday 30 July: St Peter Chrysologus.
Friday 31 July: St Ignatius of Loyola.
Saturday 1 August: St Alphonsus Ligouri.
DEATHS
We extend our prayerful sympathy to the family and relatives of:
Madge Cullinan, Draperstown.
MONTH'S MIND MASS
The Month's Mind Mass for Anna Murray, Magherafelt Rd, will be held on Friday 7 August at 7.30 pm in Holy Rosary Church.
The Month's Mind Mass for Rose Kelly, Gortahurk Rd, will be held on Saturday 8 August at 7.30 pm in St Patrick’s Church, Keenaught.
FIRST ANNIVERSARY MASS
The First Anniversary Mass for Paddy Gray, Corrick Road will be held on Friday 7 August at 7.30 pm in Holy Rosary Church.
ANNIVERSARIES
Ballinascreen:
First Anniversary:
Pat McPeake, Glenelly Villas;
Eileen O’Hagan, Moykeeran;
Gerald Stewart, Moykeeran Crescent.
Anniversaries:
John Campbell, Drumard Rd.;
Seamus Thayaparan, Glenelly Villas;
John McNamee, Campbelltown Terrace;
Margaret McGuigan, Moykeeran;
Mary Connolly, Moyard Rd.;
Rose Masters, Belfast;
Patrick O’Kane;
Susan McAuley, Strawmore Rd.
Desertmartin:
Eugene Kelly, Crocknamohill;
Gerry O’Hagan;
Gerry Donnelly;
Leo McBride;
Edward Higgins;
Brian McGuigan;
Frank O’Hagan;
Mary Breen.
PARISH COLLECTIONS
Ballinascreen:
Weekly Collection - £1549
Renovation Collection - £2305.89
Graveyard Collection - £5459.43
Desertmartin:
Weekly Collection - £727.50
Renovation Collection - £90
Graveyard Collection - £2857.70
Thank you for your generous support which is greatly appreciated.
SUMMER DRAW 2026
This year’s Annual Summer Draw will take place over the five Saturdays in August. Winners will be announced every Saturday at the 6.00 pm Vigil Mass in Holy Rosary Church. All proceeds from the draw will go to our church renovation fund for the upkeep of all our churches in the parish.
Prizes Are:
Weeks 1-4: First Prize ~ £1000, Second Prize ~ £200, Third Prize ~ £100.
Week 5: First Prize ~ £2000, Second Prize ~ £500, Third Prize ~ £300.
Tickets only £20 each and are available from Heron’s Gift Shop, Moneyneena Post Office, Parish Offices, Ballinascreen & Desertmartin Credit Unions, Fr Madden & Fr McCaul Parochial Houses.
Fr Madden is deeply grateful to all who sell tickets on behalf of the parish. If you think you could sell tickets to your extended family or work colleagues, please contact the Parish Office or Fr Madden.
SOCIAL SATURDAYS FOR ALL INCLUSIVE NEEDS
Glór na Speiríní are delighted to announce our 6 week programme for boys & girls and young adults in the Backrow Hall / 3G pitch (weather permitting). Commencing Saturday 4 July from 10.00 am to 11.00 am with various activities catering for the groups needs. Please note that all parents / guardians must remain during the sessions.
NATIONAL GRANDPARENTS PILGRIMAGE
Celebrating the sixth world day for grandparents and the elderly. All are welcome. Sunday, 26 July at Knock Shrine - chief celebrant Archbishop Eamon Martin. Commencing at 2:30 pm with the anointing of the sick. A day of grace and blessing for the whole family as we honour Grandparents and the elderly. Please join us. www.catholicgrandparentsassociation.org
SIXTOWNS HISTORY AND HERITAGE GROUP
We are supporting a most deserving fund raiser, Kenya School Project in The Shepherd's Rest on Friday 31 July at 7.00 pm. Two local men, Pat and Aiden are going back out to do more work on a school in a most isolated and poor part of Kenya. These two fellas have done incredible work over the years to help provide a chance for the young children of this place to go to school. (something which we take for granted). Your pounds go such a long way out there and every penny goes straight to the cause, so come along and support this brilliant project. If you cannot be there then you can leave your donation with Colin. Light supper will be served and there will be a Big Traditional Session of music and song.
SIXTOWNS CROSS COMMUNITY CENTRE
Social Dance on Friday 31 July at 9.30 pm. Music by Liam McLaughlin & Bríd Gallagher. Everyone Welcome.
KNOCKNAGIN HALL COMMITTEE AGM
The Committee warmly invites all members of the local community to attend the Annual General Meeting on Monday 20 August at 7:30 pm in Knocknagin Hall. The majority of the current committee members have served since 2011, generously giving their time, skills and commitment to transform the Hall into the successful and thriving community hub it is today. It is important that a new generation of volunteers comes forward to help secure the future of the hall. We are seeking people with a wide range of skills, experience and fresh ideas who are willing to play a part in managing the building, ensuring it remains fit for purpose, supporting the many groups that use it, and helping shape the services and activities that respond to the needs of our community.
Knocknagin Hall has been at the heart of the local community since the early 1950s. With your support, it can continue to be a welcoming, vibrant and sustainable community hub for many years to come. Whatever your experience, your involvement would be greatly valued.Please come along, have your say, get involved, and use your skills and enthusiasm to help make a positive difference for future generations.We look forward to welcoming you to the AGM on Monday 20 August at 7:30 pm in Knocknagin Hall. Your attendance and support would be greatly appreciated.
KNOCKNAGIN HALL COMMITTEE
Tiny Kickz, a fun and engaging sports programme for children from walking age to 5 years, hopes to launch weekly sessions in Desertmartin Hall from August on Sunday mornings from 9:30 am to 11:30am. To register your interest, please comment "YES – (child's age)" on the Desertmartin Parochial Hall Facebook page. If enough interest is shown, this exciting programme will be coming soon to our area!
Sarsfield's Accordion Band: Practices continue every Thursday at 7:30 pm as members prepare for the Feast of the Assumption Celebration in Keady, Co. Armagh, on Sunday 16 August.
WALK IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF OUR PATRON SAINT
Saint Patrick's Way Pilgrim Walk in Downpatrick with guides Martina Purdy and Elaine Kelly on 8 August. Begin at Saint Patrick's Centre with the fabulous 180° IMAX film of St Patrick. Price includes entrance fees, internal bus transfers, pilgrimage lunch at the famous Saul Barn, plus a stamped Camino passport and a 6-mile pilgrimage walk, finishing at Saint Patrick’s grave. Come and Be Amazed! (Duration: 9.00 am to approx 3.00 pm, all for just £55) To book ring 02844 619000 or go to website www.saintpatrickcentre.com
BALLINASCREEN CREDIT UNION
June Quarterly Cash Draw Winners:
First Prize - £10,000 ~ Mrs Catherine Madden, White Water Court.
Second Prize - £7,000 ~ Miss Melissa Hannan, Newtownstewart.
Third Prize - £5,000 ~ Mrs Anita Donnelly, Cahore Road.
Fourth Prize - £3,000 ~ Mrs Mary McDonald, Stewartstown.
Next Quarterly Cash Draw Saturday 26 September 2026.
HAVE A HEART FOR ART
Saturday 1 August, The Market Inn, Draperstown (Doors Open 7.00 pm). Join us for a fundraising night in loving memory of Art McNamee, marking 10 years remembered. The evening will include live music, a disco, a charity raffle with fantastic prizes, and a £100 cash prize draw also. All proceeds will go to the ICU Department at Antrim Area Hospital. Raffle tickets are available now for £5 each or 5 for £20 and can be purchased from Ciara McNamee, Herons Chemist, or Ballinascreen Credit Union. Thank you very much for your support.
ENCOUNTER SCHOOL OF MINISTRY COURSE
Is launching in All Saints Church, Newtowncunningham, Co. Donegal in September. This course draws from the richness of our Catholic heritage as we seek to teach, equip, and activate disciples to demonstrate the love of God through the power of the Holy Spirit in their spheres of influence. If you would like to know more, we are hosting a ZOOM Q&A SESSION on Thursday 6 August from 8.00 pm to 9.00 pm. If you wish to attend this session, please email donegal@encounterschool.org. You can also get more information on the course at www.encounterschool.org
YOUTH 2000 SUMMER FESTIVAL
13 - 16 August: Calling all young people aged 16 - 35! Join us at the Youth 2000 Summer Festival in Newbridge College, Co. Kildare. This is a donation-only event, with free buses available across the country and all meals included. Expect inspiring talks and workshops, Mass, music, prayer, and plenty of opportunities to chill out and meet other young Catholics. Whether you are new to the faith or looking to be refreshed, all are welcome. To register or find out more, visit youth2000.ie or follow @Youth2000Ireland.
KILCRONAGHAN CENTRE,
Vintage Rally, Craft Fair & Family Fun Day on Saturday 26 September from 11.00 am to 3.00 pm. For more information on any of the above, check Kilcronaghan Facebook or ring 02879627826
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT WEEKEND
Hosted by Marriage Encounter Ireland will take place at the Focolare Centre, Curryhills, Prosperous, Co. Kildare, from Friday 2 to Sunday 4 October. This Weekend is not a retreat in the traditional sense but is a positive, joy-filled experience, guided by presenting couples and a priest, in an atmosphere of warmth, prayer, and deep Christian faith. Couples are invited to register online at www.marriageencounter.ie
ABIDE IN HIS LOVE WOMEN’S CONFERENCE
The Great Northern Hotel, Bundoran, 20 - 22 November 2026. Join women from across Ireland for a faith-filled weekend with inspiring speakers including Sarah Swafford, Danielle Noonan, Fr Mark Wharton, Fr Barry Braum, Fr Oisín Martin, the Dominican Sisters of Nashville, Bishop Fintan Gavin, and more. A conference not to be missed! Register now: https://abideinhislove.eventbrite.com/
FOUND
A Ladies Zip up Fleece has been found in Straw Graveyard. If this Fleece belongs to you, please contact the Parish Office.
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:
2 August, Holy Rosary.
9 August, Sixtowns.
16 August, Straw.
23 August, Moneyneena.
30 August, Holy Rosary.
Saturday 5 September, Sixtowns.
13 September, Straw.
4 October, Holy Rosary.
Saturday 17 October, Sixtowns.
1 November, Straw.
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:
August 2nd & 9th 2026 September 6th & 27th 2026
October 4th & 18th 2026 November 8th & 22nd 2026
December 6th & 20th 2026 January 10th & 24th 2027
February 7th & 21st 2027 March 7th & 14th 2027
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.
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 men called to priesthood, that they will have the wisdom of Solomon (First Reading) as they guide God's people to find and value the treasure which is belonging to the Kingdom of God (Gospel) and building it up as a Kingdom of Justice, Love, and Peace.
