Doonbeg Apostolic Work branch marks 50 years

The Doonbeg Branch of Apostolic Work Ireland held its 50th annual display in the parish hall last Sunday. The display is always a noteworthy event that showcases the talent and commitment of its members but this year was especially significant as the Doonbeg branch celebrates its golden jubilee anniversary.

Like the Doonbeg Drama Festival, which also celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, the Apostolic Work has been an active organisation that has contributed significantly to community life since 1961.
The primary activity of the Apostolic Work is providing aid to missionaries and lay people working in developing countries.
This is achieved through the making and embroidering of liturgical garments such as vestments and altar cloths, the making of children’s clothes and fundraising to provide financial aid for buildings such as schools and hospitals. The organisation has many branches throughout Clare and nationwide. The work carried out by its members in Doonbeg finds its way to missionaries working in Asia, Africa and South America.
The annual display showcases items made by members. The work is always of the highest quality and tastefully presented. An important feature is the work completed by its junior branch in Shragh National School with the support of their teachers.
Also on display were the sacred vessels and mass kits, which have been purchased from donations from members of the public and are sent to missionary churches.
The current members of the Doonbeg branch are very grateful to all those, both active and honorary members, who have supported the organisation over the past 50 years. At this time, they are mindful of the energy and commitment of its founding members in 1961 and of deceased past members, without whom the branch would not have flourished.
Much has changed in Ireland over that time and in these challenging times new members are warmly welcomed to join what is a locally based organisation that contributes to developing communities all over the world.
Both men and women young and old have generously given of their time and talents over the years and those who are interested in supporting the work in Doonbeg are invited to contact the branch president, Chrissie Stephenson on 065 9055279 for details of it meetings, activities and fundraising events.
New members can be assured of a warm welcome and an opportunity to use their time, skills and creativity for the benefit of others.