Recently, many have called for a 50% reduction in the Irish beef herd, to reduce our national CO2 output. People are being asked to reduce their meat consumption, to reap both health and environmental benefits. However, beef farmers would need time to change to growing crops (although not all land is suitable for this). Consumers would need to embrace the consumption of more beans and lentils, nuts etc., especially so for vegans. While many types of beans grow well in our climate, many of the current “trendy” superfoods (that our modern more sophisticated palates enjoy) most certainly do not. Some are imported from Europe, but many come from countries that now earn so much from exporting to “rich” western regions that local indigenous people are deprived of their once traditional foods on which they relied. Two particularly problematic foods include quinoa and avocados, where social and environmental havoc is playing out in some areas of S America as a result of mass growing and exporting. Beef farmers may be an easy target, but the alternatives are not so simplistic or environmentally sustainable. Flying food around the world creates its own carbon footprint. A more sustainable approach is to buy as much locally grown food as possible.
Wicklow Parish BBQ
A BBQ in aid of Wicklow Parish & Friends of St Luke’s Hospital, Rathgar will be held on Sunday, September 15th at Brian O’Rorke’s home, Killmullen House Moneystown, near Roundwood starting at 1 pm. Steak, hog roast and a vegetarian option will be served, accompanied by homemade salads and desserts. Kids of all sizes will be entertained by a selection of carnival style games, activities and a treasure hunt through the grounds. Adults can enjoy refreshments including wine. Children and family tickets (€8/€55) will be available on the day at the gate or in advance through Brian O’Rorke 086 342 8226.
The Hub Update
Our Tús Scheme assistant, Toni MacAulay, who was working in Ashford Gift & Book Shop, has finished her year’s work. We are grateful for her help.
The shop opens mornings and afternoons Monday to Saturday. On Thursday mornings from 10.30am LET’S CRAFT! meets in The Hub.
Unity Gospel Choir
The Unity Gospel Choir recommences in September. It meets for rehearsals in Nun’s Cross church on Mondays at 8pm.
Ashford Country Fair
The 7th annual Ashford Country Fair will take place in the grounds of the Bel-Air Hotel on Bank Holiday Monday, 7th May from 11am to 4pm.
This year’s fair will have a number of animal attractions including a dog show, gun dog demonstration, duck herding, falconry and a pony club. Children will also enjoy our magician and fairground. Stalls include artisan displays, plants, crafts, books and clothes. For food try our barbecue, teas, coffees and cakes! There will also be vintage cars, tractors, a raffle and many other interesting features. In other words, there will be something for everyone. Please do come along and support a very enjoyable and popular event!
If you can assist in helping on one of the stalls or can provide goods for sale, please contact Amanda Mooney, Bernadette Glover or Lesley Rue.
Youth Clubs
United Youth is a club for 4th to 6th classes. The next club night is on 2nd March and will run from 6.00-7.30pm, It continues on the 1st Saturday of each month in term time in East Glendalough School. The programme includes games, sports, crafts, outings and most importantly fun!
The Teen Youth Group is meeting every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month in East Glendalough School 6.30–8pm. 12-18 year olds are welcome. Each night there are games, a discussion group and Pizza. All are welcome!
The Easter Vestry Meeting
The Easter Vestry (Annual General Meeting of the Parish) takes place on Thursday, 25th April, at 8pm in the Bel-Air. This is your chance to hear more about the parish’s activities and finances, to have your say on the future direction of the parish and to vote for an incoming select vestry.
Big Step Up
The “Big Step Up” is an overnight event in Christ Church Cathedral to encourage those who are moving from primary to secondary school next year In their faith. There will be sung worship, food, and there will be plenty of time and space to pray, think, chat about whatever’s on your mind or just hang out. It takes place on 4th/5th May. The Booking fee is €20 and advance booking is required by 26th April through the parish clergy.
Family Service
There are many different activities for children and youths on Sunday mornings. With this in mind, it has been decided to experiment with a new timing for our monthly family services. They will take place at 5pm, will last 30 to 40 minutes with some food afterwards. If you feel you could assist in organising these services, please talk with Rev Ken. The first such service is scheduled for Sunday 28th April.
Friendship Group
A friendship group has been formed for people who are retired and for those who aren’t able to get out to meet people as regularly as they would like. The next get together will be for afternoon tea on Monday 15th April, in the Wicklow Methodist Hall. All welcome! Further information available from Linda Walsh: 086 8228378.