Latest news with #Boolavogue
Irish Independent
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Programme of events revealed for annual Lady's Island Pilgrimage in Wexford – ‘There's no place more beautiful'
Bishop Ger Nash will do the honours, celebrating mass at 3 p.m. with the Lagoon Junior Choir providing accompaniment, followed by a procession around the island. The castle has been subject to a lot of heritage conservation work of late and Fr Jim Cogley is looking forward to showing off the results to visitors, noting that Wexford County Council has invested 'considerable funding' in the local area of late. Currently in the process of being completed is a stunning mural by Boolavogue artist Monica Gahan, depicting the island on a wall of the castle courtyard. The area in front will provide a facility for those who wish to have loved ones remembered on the Island in the form of a ceramic photo plaque. Enquiries for this can be made on 087-4066977. With a huge amount of work required for pilgrimage season, Fr Jim is fulsome in his praise of the local community. 'The Parish of Lady's Island, although small in size, is blessed with a wonderful team of volunteers that make the pilgrimage possible each year,' he said. 'One team of men and women are responsible for the running of the gift Shop that has a wonderful array of items for sale and is open each day. Another large team take care of the Coffee shop where visitors are welcomed and can enjoy the delights of home baking and refreshments. This too is open daily during pilgrimage season and more volunteers are always welcome.' Fr Jim has revealed that daily services will take place at 3 p.m and 7.30 p.m. with a whole host of different musicians and speakers taking part. After the service on August 15, Fr Jim himself will speak with a focus on healing. 'We are pleased to welcome a return visit from Celine Byrne, one of Ireland's best-known singers, and world-renowned star of opera,' Fr Jim revealed. 'Celine, from Kildare, will be singing and sharing her faith journey on Sunday August 24. Her performance last year was magnificent, but many missed out because of inclement weather.' Celine has performed for three popes, US presidents and has shared a stage with legendary opera singers like Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo and Andrea Bocelli. While a singer with the stars her feet are firmly on the ground as she remains humble, honest about her own struggles, and a strong advocate of healing and mental health. Celine will also launch Fr Cogley's latest two books In the Wood You Believe series, Vol 12 When I befriended my Anger and Vol 13 A World of Symbols. These will also be available to order on Mass the following Sunday, September 7, will be a Diocesan celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope. At 3 p.m. the All Ireland Peace Choir will perform and afterwards Bishop Nash will dedicate the Wall of Remembrance. The Closing Mass and Candlelight Procession will take place on Monday September 8, at 7 p.m. Among the other changes to this year's programme are the blessing with holy oil which will take place each Wednesday and Friday after 3 p.m. mass; rosary before mass at 7 p.m. on Mondays; prayer around the cross on Fridays after 7.30 p.m. mass. A listening service will also be available with trained personnel after 3 p.m. masses. 'When the weather is smiling and even when its not, there is no place more beautiful than Lady's Island to visit,' Fr Jim says. 'Come and enjoy yourself and be part of a long tradition that has remained unbroken, apart from Cromwell and Covid, for the past 1400 years.'
Irish Independent
18-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Wexford's hugely popular Phil Murphy Weekend to take place – ‘It's an incredible event with a great buzz in the village'
'It's been going for a long time now. It was established to honour the memory of Phil Murphy who was a harmonica player from the area here who died in 1989. Such was the success of the memorial weekend that it was continued as an annual event,' says John. The festival has attracted some of the biggest names in Irish music and this year is no different. 'They do concerts and sit in for sessions and mix in with the community. Its for everyone.' John is appreciative the support the festival has received from local and national politicians like Cllr Jim Codd and Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy. The area's unique association and deep roots with Irish music is not a new one. Patrick Joseph McCall, born in 1861 and best known as the writer of 'Boolavogue' would holiday in the area. This year's programme is set to be one of the festival's most exciting, with one of the most anticipated performances seeing 'Cherish the Ladies' take to the festival marquee stage. 'They're based a lot of the time in America but have recently toured in Ireland. The only Irish tour they are doing this summer is in Carrick on Bannow.' For John there is something special about this festival. 'We have some of the top acts in the traditional music scene, performing here in a very intimate environment. Its not very often you can see acts of the calibre that we have in a very quaint and up-close venue. Aswell as the concerts, there are sessions and gatherings. It's an incredible weekend with a great buzz in the village.' The Wexford band TULUA are home grown and are past performers at the festival. 'But this year we're not going to have them because they're touring Canada next week and just back for the Fleadh. So we'll let Canada have them for one year' he jokes. John has been at every single festival over three decades. One act in particular stands out for him on a personal level. 'I think it was when Paul Brady played in the church here a few years ago. It was amazing to have had him here and it was a really beautiful concert.
Irish Independent
22-06-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
Iconic Wexford storytelling house celebrates 25 years – ‘The success is all down to those that attend'
The Thatched house in Lower Oulart, or the Lower Street as its known locally, was there in 1798. That area was the original village of Oulart and in the 1700s the present village evolved around the building of the old church St Mochua's as its known today. In 1995 the thatched house fell into disrepair and local bicentenary committee of 1798 decided to refurbish it. Once the rebuild and thatching was completed, two local women started using the building as a storytelling venue. As such, on June 12 2000 their monthly story nights started, providing music, songs, and tales to members of the community. Eileen Dempsey said that the celebratory night was true to the many nights they have spent in the house over the years. "Last Sunday night we celebrated our 25th anniversary a big crowd attended both old and new friends joined us. Unfortunately only three of the four remaining committee members were present as Jim Mythen the owner of Bygone Days story house was unable to be with us.' "Our local councillor Mary Farrell was present and spoke a few words she also sang Boolavogue, Jim Doyle also sang Galway Bay both those songs were performed on a regular basis by the late Jim Dunne a very good friend to all, but especially to the house,' she explained. Tea and coffee was served in the yard and both the house and the marquee were full to capacity with a large crowd sitting and watching the entertainment. So many people were in attendance that not everyone could be called upon to perform on the night. "We want to thank all who came to celebrate with us, those who brought cakes and those who helped in any way on the night or leading up to the night. A special thanks to those who come every month to make the nights so memorable, your friendship and support – it is very much appreciated. 'The success is all down to those that attend, so here's to the next 25th!' she added.
Irish Independent
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
See pictures from Wexford secondary school awards ceremony
This year's event was particularly special, marking the culmination of the school's centenary celebrations and honouring student achievement across a wide range of disciplines including academics, music, sport, and civic engagement, and in the opening proceedings, the commitment of the entire school community was acknowledged by the school's principal, Toni Ormond, as she stated the awards 'celebrate not only academic success, but also the values of kindness, leadership, and participation that define our school.' The ceremony began with a traditional musical performance of Boolavogue by sisters Sarah and Ciara McDonald, accompanied by Sophie Wickham, and it was a powerful tribute to the school's cultural roots. A key highlight of the event was a reflection on the historic centenary concert, which showcased the creativity and spirit of students and staff alike. The contributions of the music, art, and home economics departments were warmly acknowledged, with particular praise for their roles in the concert, opening Mass, and the sixth year graduation. The school's vibrant extracurricular life was also celebrated. Transition Year students were commended for their enthusiastic involvement in the Young St. Vincent de Paul programme and the organisation of popular events such as the Christmas fair and sports day. A special mention was given to Cathleen Aav, winner of the local round of the Soroptimist public speaking competition. In her address, Ms Ormond expressed sincere gratitude to the unsung heroes behind the scenes, such as the office staff, cleaning team, caretaker, and SNAs, whose dedication ensures the smooth running of daily school life. Sustainability and student well-being were also central themes throughout the year and the Green Schools Committee, led by Ms Stafford, continued its vital work promoting environmental awareness, with a renewed focus on sustainable travel. The Amber Flag team, under the guidance of Mrs Byrne, promoted positive mental health through key initiatives such as Well-being Week and International Day. Meanwhile, student leadership was recognised through the work of the Student Council and Meitheal Leaders. The outgoing head girl, Aimee O'Lone and deputy head girl, Laura Doherty were thanked for their dedicated service during the 2024 to 2025 school year, and the incoming leadership team was officially announced with Corah Brazil as head girl and Sophie Wickham as deputy head girl. Senior prefects were also commended for their positivity, leadership, and support. Musical interludes added a joyful atmosphere to the ceremony, with memorable performances by Brooklyn Catt, Ella Yu on the traditional Chinese guzheng, and Angela Miranda, accompanied by Katie Hogarth on guitar. In the sporting arena, students who excelled in athletics, camogie, and basketball were presented with awards, while staff were praised for their tireless coaching and encouragement throughout the year. Special mentions went to Rachel Murphy, named Junior Sportsperson of the Year, and Laura Doherty, awarded Senior Sportsperson of the Year. In recognising academic excellence, Transition Year student, Lily Ryan, was acknowledged for achieving the Best Junior Cycle Results in 2024. The High Achiever Awards celebrated students across each year group who demonstrated outstanding academic results and consistent dedication: 1st Year: Siún Allen, Cora Colfer, Brónagh O'Flaherty, Sasha Slobdianiuk, Olha Luhyna; 2nd Year: Olivia Mullally, Ella Murphy, Saorlaith Mullally, Sadhbh Cooper, Hannah Ryan; 3rd Year: Ciara McDonald, Eve Flanagan, Farah Murphy De Las Casas, Sophie Doyle; 5th Year: Eabha Mullally, Mirabel Chinaka, Lukne Jakonyte, Clara Walsh, Sophie Wickham; 6th Year: Cathy Power, Aimee O'Lone, Ava O'Leary, Cathleen Aav, Doireann Rossiter, Emily Kinsella. ADVERTISEMENT The Spirit of the School Awards recognised those who embodied the ethos of kindness, generosity, and active involvement in school life. These recipients were nominated by both peers and staff, which is a testament to their positive impact on the community: 1st Year: Brónagh O'Flaherty, Cora Colfer, Eimear Rossiter, Ella St Ledger, Leah Barry O'Hagan; 2nd Year: Kate Corcoran, Aine Gaffney, Brooke Banville, Joanne Molyneaux, Aoife Moran, Ewaoluwa Oke, Thea van Schalkwyk; 3rd Year: Ciara McDonald, Jewel Belleno, Ella Talbot, Amy Fitzgerald, Muireann Cooper, Rachel Murphy, Sarah Frisby, Eve Flanagan; TY: Hannah Maher, Lily Ryan, Caoimhe Connolly, Laura Barron, Ruby Murphy, Jane O'Shea; 5th Year: Sophie Wickham, Cora Brazil, Natanya Howey, Leah St Ledger, Saoirse Murphy O'Neill, Kawther Aissiou, Shauna Power; 6th Year: Emily Kinsella, Emily Bown, Aimee O'Lone, Hope Murphy, Cathy Power, Laura Doherty, Sarah Connell, Ava Leacy, Maura Corcoran. The most prestigious award from the ceremony is the Student of the Year, which was presented to sixth year student, Emily Kinsella. She was honoured for her 'excellent attendance, class participation, and unwavering commitment to her studies'. Emily was also described during the ceremony as 'a diligent and conscientious student with a consistently positive attitude', with her work ethic and school spirit making her a fitting recipient of this prestigious accolade. The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt farewell to the outgoing Sixth Years, who were praised for their resilience, leadership, and the legacy they leave behind. As they prepare to take the next step, their contribution to school life will not be forgotten. 'With performances, presentations, and powerful moments of reflection, this year's ceremony was a fitting celebration of a landmark year at Our Lady of Lourdes Secondary School – honouring the past, celebrating the present, and looking with confidence to the future,' concluded Ms Ormond.
