BALLINASCREEN & DESERTMARTIN PARISHES 5_JULY_2026
- 4 hours ago
- 8 min read
No. 36 ~ FOURTEENTH 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 20 JUNE
Holy Rosary: 6.00 pm
St Patrick’s, Keenaught: 7.30 pm
SUNDAY MASSES - SUNDAY 21 JUNE
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 ~ 6 July
10.00 am ~ Holy Rosary Church.
Tuesday ~ 7 July
10.00 am ~ St. Mary’s, Coolcalm.
Wednesday ~ 8 July
10.00 am ~ Holy Rosary Church.
Thursday ~ 9 July
10.00 am ~ St Mary's, Coolcalm
Friday ~ 10 July
10.00 am ~ St. Mary’s, Coolcalm.
7.30 pm ~ Holy Rosary.
CONFESSIONS
Ballinascreen:
Holy Rosary Church: Saturday at 5.30 pm - before Vigil Mass.
Desertmartin:
St Patrick’s, Keenaught: Saturday from 6.30 pm to 7.10 pm.
FEASTS OF THE WEEK
Monday 6 July: Ss Moninne & St Maria Goretti.
Tuesday 7 July: St Maelruain, bishop, abbott.
Wednesday 8 July: St Kilian, bishop, martyr.
Thursday 9 July: Ss Augustine Zhao Rong, priest & companions, martyrs.
Saturday 11 July: St Benedict.
DEATHS
We extend our prayerful sympathy to the family and relatives of:
Mary Murray, Donaghmore, sister of Edel O’Connor;
Brendan Mallon, Desertmartin;
Damien Mallon, Moneyneena.
MONTH'S MIND MASS
The Month's Mind Mass for Laura Diffley, Gortnari, will take place on Friday 10 July at 7.30 pm in Holy Rosary Church.
FIRST ANNIVERSARY MASS
The First Anniversary Mass for Mona McBride, Campbelltown, will take place on Friday 17 July at 7.30 pm in Holy Rosary Church.
The First Anniversary Mass for Bernadette Murray, will take place on Saturday 18 July at 7.00 pm in St Patrick’s, Keenaught.
ANNIVERSARIES
Ballinascreen:
First Anniversaries:
Stan Heron, Magherafelt Rd.;
Sheila McAuley, Campbelltown.
Anniversaries:
Gerry Madden, Bradley Park;
Art McNamee, Sixtowns Rd.;
Cyril Harkin, Tobermore Rd.;
Irene Magee, Moykeeran Crescent;
Anna McWilliams.
Desertmartin:
John Joe Kelly;
Danny Donnelly;
Malachy Crawley;
Philomena Toner;
Maggie McGuigan;
Kieran McGuigan;
Eileen McGuigan;
Henry McBride.
WEDDINGS
Congratulations and best wishes for the future to:
Aimee Brady & James O’Kane who were married recently in St. Eugene’s Church, Moneyneena.
PARISH COLLECTIONS
Ballinascreen:
Weekly Collection - £1458.69
Renovation Collection - £1766.54
Pope’s Collection - £106.06 (Total now £1306.06)
Desertmartin:
Weekly Collection - £1255
Pope’s Collection - £408.50
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.
BLESSING OF GRAVES 2026
As the weekend of the blessing of the graves approaches, we ask families to look out for those deceased who no longer have any living relatives or family in the parish and to tidy up their graves too. It is always a good opportunity in the run up to Cemetery Sunday to reaffirm the dignity of a grave and its sacred space for the faithful departed to rest in peace.
Saturday 18 July
5.00 pm: St. Eugene’s, Moneyneena. Vigil Mass and Blessing of Graves.
7.00 pm: St. Patricks’, Keenaught. Vigil Mass and Blessing of Graves.
No Vigil mass in Holy Rosary
Sunday 19 July
10.00 am: St. Mary’s, Coolcalm. Mass followed by Blessing of Graves.
11.00 am: St. Patrick’s, Sixtowns. Mass followed by Blessing of Graves
12 noon: Old Keenaught, Blessing of the Graves.
2.00 pm: Straw. Blessing of Graves
No 12 noon mass in Moneyneena
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.
FLOWER / WREATH MAKING
Flower/wreath making in Tirgan Hall on Thursday 16 July at 7.00 pm. £10 entry. Greenery oasis and trays supplied - bring your own fresh flowers perfect for blessing of graves. Light refreshments will be provided message Pauline to confirm place 07541552666
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
Social Tea Dance: Friday 10 July at 9.00 pm. Music by Peter McCloskey, Adm. £7, includes refreshments.
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.
Irish Language Classes; Chair Excercises; Gymnastics Club: Have all stopped for the summer break & recommence in September.
DESERTMARTIN CREDIT UNION - IMPORTANT CHANGES
Please note that Desertmartin Credit Union will update its operating hours starting Friday 3 July. The new opening hours will be:
Friday from 5:30 pm to 8.00 pm and Saturday from 10.00 am to 12 noon.
Thank you for your continued membership and understanding.
DIOCESE OF DERRY LOUGH DERG PILGRIMAGE
The Three-Day Pilgrimage will take place from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 July. An opportunity to step away from the pace of daily life and make space for God. For those availing of the bus transport (from St Eugene's Cathedral via Strabane and Lifford) the cost is £95, includes bus. Booking form and full details are available at derrydiocese.org/lough-derg.
FR MIKE SCHMITZ PARABLES TOUR
Derry Youth Ministry are inviting young people aged 16+ to join them for the Fr Mike Schmitz Parables Tour taking place on 20 July 2026 in the National Stadium Dublin. Fr Mike is an American priest and digital evangelist, who will present the message of the Gospel in a novel, energetic and engaging style that speaks into young people's lives today. There will be a special Mass for youth attending. Cost is £45 for ticket and transport. Bus departs Derry at 12 noon, with pick-ups in Strabane and Omagh. To secure your place or for more information contact bethany.doherty@derrydiocese.org or call 02871264087
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, and Mairead Sweeney on Saturday 4 July. 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
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/
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
St Eugene’s Church Cleaning: We are currently seeking volunteers to assist with the cleaning of St Eugene’s Church, Moneyneena. Your help ensures our church remains a beautiful and welcoming space for all parishioners. Whether you can help weekly or once a month, every bit of assistance is greatly appreciated. To get involved, please reach out to the Parish Office on 028 7962 8248 or Email: ballinascreenparish@gmail.com
FOUND ITEM: PURSE WITH CASH
A purse containing a sum of money was recently found in Holy Rosary Church. If you believe this purse 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:
12 July, Straw.
26 July, Moneyneena.
2 August, Holy Rosary.
9 August, Sixtowns.
16 August, Straw.
23 August, Moneyneena.
30 August, Holy Rosary.
6 September, Sixtowns.
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:
18 July
2 & 9 August
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.
DDS Masses will take place on Wednesday 27 May at 10.00 am in Holy Rosary Church, and on Sunday 31 May at 10.00 am in St Mary’s, Coolcalm.
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
That those who may be anxious or worried about feeling called to priesthood will trust the Lord and hear the One who is "... gentle and humble in heart..." promising them rest and the peace that comes from knowing He is with them, carrying their burdens alongside them.
