BALLINASCREEN & DESERTMARTIN PARISHES 8_NOVEMBER_2026
No. 54 ~ THIRTY-SECOND 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
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 ~ 9 November
10.00 am ~ Holy Rosary Church
7.30 pm ~ Holy Rosary - Mass in honour of Padre Pio.
Tuesday ~ 10 November
10.00 am ~ St Mary’s, Coolcalm.
Wednesday ~ 11 November
10.00 am ~ Holy Rosary Church.
Thursday ~ 12 November
10.00 am ~ St Mary’s, Coolcalm.
Friday ~ 13 November
10.00 am ~ St Mary’s, Coolcalm.
7.30 pm ~ Holy Rosary Church.
CONFESSIONS
Ballinascreen: Holy Rosary at 5.30 pm - before Vigil Mass on Saturday.
Desertmartin: St. Patrick's, Keenaught at 4.00 pm - before Vigil Mass on Saturday.
FEASTS OF THE WEEK
Monday 9 November: The Dedication of The Lateran Basilica.
Tuesday 10 November: St Leo the Great.
Wednesday 11 November: St Martin of Tours
Thursday 12 November: St Josaphat
Friday 13 November: St Laurence O’Toole
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.
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.
CHANGE OF MASS TIME
The Anniversary Mass on Friday 20 November in Holy Rosary Church, will be held at the earlier time of 7.00 pm, this schedule adjustment has been made to accommodate the town's Christmas lights switch-on event occurring the same evening.
MONTH'S MIND MASS
The Month's Mind Mass for Jacinta McEldowney, will take place on Saturday 14 November in St Patrick’s Church, Keenaught at 4.30 pm.
The Month's Mind Mass for Terrence Hegarty, Ranaghan Road, will take place on Friday 20 November at 7.00 pm in Holy Rosary Church.
FIRST ANNIVERSARY MASS
The First Anniversary Mass for Brigid O’Neill, née Burke, Magherafelt will be held on Friday 20 November at 7.00 pm in Holy Rosary Church.
ANNIVERSARIES
Ballinascreen:
Annie Kelly, Mallon Villas;
Victor Lynn, Cordarragh;
Josephine Trainor, Moneyneena Rd.;
Marie Mullen, Glenshane Park;
Margaret McBride, Campbelltown Terrace.
Desertmartin:
Rose O’Hagan;
Selina O’Hagan;
Jimmy Lyttle;
Jim McIvor;
Gerry Murray;
Nellie Trainor;
Anne McGuigan;
Rosie Donnelly.
BAPTISMS
We welcome into God’s family through the Sacrament of Baptism:
Jude Thomas Glasgow, Cahore Terrace;
Nora Sarah Conlon & Conall Patrick Conlon, Brackaghislea Road.
PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES WITH BISHOP MICHAEL ROUTER
Led by Bishop Michael Router. There are two options available as follows:
Option 1: 8 - 13 July, 5 nights, £980, from City of Derry Airport, with priority given to Assisted Pilgrims and family members, Care Team, Youth, Youth Leaders and Priests.
Option 2: 7 - 14 July, 7 nights, £1,095, from Belfast International Airport. Single Supplement and Travel Insurance will be extra. Expressions of Interest can be emailed to derrypilgrim@outlook.com. Bookings will begin in mid-January, with more details later. Pilgrimage Gift Vouchers of any value are available from the Pastoral Centre, Bishop Street, Derry, for anyone wishing to purchase them, particularly as a Christmas Gift. Please contact 028 7136 2475 for further information.
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
SHRINES OF FRANCE PILGRIMAGE
Lisieux, Rue Du Bac, Nevers, Paris, Rocamadour and Lourdes - fully escorted pilgrimage from 11 to 18 June 2027. 7 Nights flying from Dublin to Paris/Lourdes to Dublin. Including visits to the home of the Miraculous Medal, and to see the incorrupt bodies of St Catherine Laboure and St Bernadette. In Paris visit Sacre-Coeur, Lourdes, plus much more. Comprehensive Travel insurance is extra £35.00. Cost: £1,200 per person sharing. Places are limited. Single room supplement is £345.00 extra. Spiritual Director: Fr Joe McGuigan. £250.00 deposit secures a seat! For further details contact: Jean Reynolds 07729 402311 or Email: jeanreynolds@hotmail.co.uk
PARISH COLLECTIONS
Ballinascreen:
Weekly Collection - £3547.80
Renovation Collection - £2468.50
Mission Collection - £81.50 (Total: £1592.65)
Desertmartin:
Weekly Collection - £1183.20
Renovation Collection - £686.20
Mission Collection - £145
Thank you for your generous support which is greatly appreciated.
Totals shown include October Standing Orders from Parishioners. If would like to avail of this option please contact the Parish Office.
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!
WARM WELCOME WEDNESDAY
In Workspace Community Hub, Wednesday 11 November from 11.00 am to 1.00 pm. We will be joined by Inspire Wellbeing at 11.45 am for a mental health and wellbeing session. Inspire Wellbeing is an all-island charity focused on mental health, intellectual disabilities and addiction support. This session provides participants with an opportunity to consider what we really mean by ‘mental health’ and how we can look after our mental health and strengthen our overall wellbeing. Booking not required, just drop in on the day. Free tea, coffee and refreshments also served.
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.
ABIDE WOMEN'S CONFERENCE 2026
20 - 22 November. Join hundreds of women at the Great Northern Hotel, Bundoran, Speakers include Sarah Swafford, Danielle Noonan, Kimberlee Woo Ling, Fr Oisín Martin CFR, Fr Barry Braum, the Nashville Dominican Sisters, Fr David Nugent and Fr Mark Wharton, with Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Fintan Gavin. A weekend of faith, celebration, healing and joy! Register on Eventbrite: Abide in His Love.
FREE STRESS CONTROL CLASSES
The classes are FREE and the next round will commence on Monday 9 November at 9.00 am, with session two on the following Monday at 9.00 am (16 November). Access the online classes at https://ni.stresscontrol.org/.
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: Today, Sunday 8 November from 10:30 am to 3.00 pm. Santa will visit from 11.00 am to 2.00 pm! Bring the children along to meet Santa and get into the Christmas spirit! Over 25 stalls from all over Mid-Ulster packed with handmade goodies, festive decorations and so much more — there’s something for everyone!
Social Tea Dance: Friday 13 November at 9.00 pm. Music by Kenny Paul. Adm £7 - includes refreshments. Everyone welcome
Céilí & Salsa Dancing Lessons have now finished.
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:
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 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
During this month of November let us pray for the deceased priests who served our diocese and our parishes as we pray for the men who will take up their mantle in the years to come.
