2024 was a very busy and eventful year in the parish of Kilbride. There were special days, including for First Holy Communion, Confirmation, etc. with a big turnout of parents and children on all such occasions.
In September, Fourmilehouse Church was the venue for milestone wedding anniversary celebrations. Bishop Kevin Doran attended.
In August, Fr Pravin, who was parish priest for the last few years, took up a new position and was replaced by Fr Victor, PP for Oran and Fourmilehouse. We wish both priests every success in their new roles.
Meanwhile, we welcome back Deacon Seamus Talbot from his role in Cork. He has an important role now with the youth of the diocese.
There have been positive developments at Scoil Bhríde. A new classroom extension is gone to tender. The childcare centre is in big demand and is currently full.
A new Manager and new Assistant Manager were approved in April. Some fundraising has also been undertaken. Croagh Patrick was climbed in September, and a very enjoyable day it was.
The Men’s Choir and the school children provided an entertaining evening in November. There was also a head shave fundraiser. To date €40,000 has been raised. A huge thanks to all involved.
A statue was erected at Fourmilehouse Church in honour of the late Fr Raymond Browne, PP, along with two commemorative benches at Derrane Church. It was a very special day, with a great crowd present, including Fr Browne’s family.
Roscommon County Council and Roscommon LEADER Partnership ran a number of events during the year, one of which involved the Portuguese/Brazilian community. This featured beautiful decoration of the community centre, the aroma of fine cooking, beautiful colourful costumes and great music.
The Older People’s Council had a great day on the 4th of December with 180 people attending. Food, music, and speakers including local Ambassador Paddy Joe Burke featured.
There is a lot of work carried out in the parish by different groups including RSS, FAS, and CSP schemes, etc.
Our Active Age group proved that active is the word as they went on outings to Galway, Donegal, etc and indeed to the Arts Centre in Roscommon.
Kilbride GAA won an underage county title. Scoil Bhríde won a county title too. Congrats to all involved.
The housing association party took place on the 8th of December and was very enjoyable.
Roxboro NS is expanding all the time. Great work is being done by RSG and in the childcare and community centre.
We are looking forward to a good St Stephen’s Night social gathering with Mick Flavin in the Kilbride Community Centre.
A new updated gym will be opened in Kilbride Community Centre in January. Work is also going on at the Kilbride GAA pitch with regard to gym facilities.
Condolences to all people of the parish of Kilbride who suffered bereavements during the year (RIP).
We wish everyone in the parish a Happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year.
