Fr Thornton said that standing outside the church collecting Trócaire boxes from passing cars was not the most unusual thing that he has done in recent times, as with COVID-19 “unusual” is the new normal.

Last weekend about 175 women attended the Shine Retreat, and – unsurprisingly – there are only 20 tickets left for the 2-day retreat Blessed Is She.

Awards were given to service men and women, active and retired, who especially exemplify respect, loyalty, integrity, selflessness, moral courage and physical courage.

“Lord bless our Christian mothers; Lord Bless our Christian fathers.”

“There are many, many young people who want to say ‘yes’ to Our Lord. It’s very, very encouraging.”

Any money raised will go to the parish to pay the builders whose wages were stolen from Fr Desmond and any surplus will be spent on improving school facilities.