All About Cork: Procession for Our Lady of Fatima at McSwiney Villas

The Annual Procession in Honour of Our Lady of Fatima took place earlier this month at McSwiney Villas, Gurranabraher.

This cherished annual procession, held in honour of Our Lady of Fatima, has been a tradition in McSwiney Villas for more than 35 years.

Each year, residents from the local and surrounding community come together in devotion and community spirit.

The procession began at 2pm on Sunday, May 4, and the statue of Our Lady was carried to the North Presentation Convent.

Organisers have said they “would like to extend our sincere thanks to Fr Sean Crowley for graciously presiding over this year’s procession, and to the Sisters of the North Presentation Convent for generously allowing us to use the chapel”.

They have also extended their thanks to George, Stacey, Sara, Patrick, Flor, and Colm “for their many years of dedication in maintaining the grotto at McSwiney Villas”.

“Your commitment keeps this tradition alive,” they added.

New chess club open to all

A chess club is being set up at the Parochial Hall, Gurranabraher, and will commence on Thursday, May 15, at 7.30pm.

Membership is open to all age categories, players of all levels are welcome. A special invitation has been extended to beginners of all ages, who would like to learn to play chess. Tuition will be available and chess sets will be provided. For further information, contact the Parochial Hall on (021) 4301071, weekdays from 9am to 1pm, and 2pm to 4pm, or email
parochialhall@workmail.com.

Children’s Bookclub meets

This month’s Children’s Bookclub in Hollyhill Library is being held this afternoon at 2.30pm.

Bring along your favourite book and tell the other bookworms about it, or find a new favourite. This is a free event, no need to register. It is suitable for ages 6-12.

Good start to club fundraiser

Castleview AFC have said their ‘Buy a Brick’ sponsorship campaign is “off to a fantastic start”.

“We want to thank everyone who has already secured their place on our Wall of Sponsors,” they said. “As we approach 70 successful years as a club, we are proud to embark on this exciting redevelopment - a project that will provide a home for generations to come.

“This is your chance to be part of history! Your name, business name, or the name of a loved one will be forever displayed in O’Sullivan Park’s new development, supporting our club’s dressing rooms and facilities.”

People are invited to purchase a brick - €50 for a single brick; €100 for a family brick; or €150+ for a company brick (minimum donation).

Community award winners

The Hut Youth Project and Clogheen Kerry Pike Community Association have been recognised with Lord Mayor’s Community & Voluntary Awards.

The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Dan Boyle, along with the chief executive of Cork City Council, Valerie O’ Sullivan, recognised the contribution of individuals and organisations to the life of the city.

Clogheen Kerry Pike Community Association was the winner of the community development and lifelong learning category, while The Hut Youth Project were honoured in the social services, charities and environment category.

Midsummer Festival fun

The programme has been announced for the Cork Midsummer Festival.

In Fitzgerald Park, from June 20-22, Fruiting Futures by Sarah Lou Kinneen takes place.

The free event is supported by National Sculpture Factory and Churchfield-based Sample-Studios.

On June 21, YouthQuake: It’s All About Community takes place at Fitzgerald Park. It’s a high-energy creative celebration featuring new music, DJs and live performances from youth across the city.

There are plenty of other events on for the festival also.

Visit corkmidsummer.com.

Have Knocknaheeny, Gurranabraher and Hollyhill news? Contact sarah.odwyer@theecho.ie