THE ROLE that grandparents play in the lives of children was celebrated recently at two schools in Doon, County Limerick.
Catholic Schools Week 2025 was celebrated from January 19 to 25, with the theme of ‘Catholic Schools: Alive in Christ’.
“Catholic schools are intrinsically connected with the local parish community, and each of these actively serves the other. It is important to acknowledge and celebrate the living connection that exists between school and parish during Catholic Schools Week,” explained James Dormer, spokesperson for the schools.
“Catholic Schools Week provides an opportunity for both communities to pray for one another and with one another.”
In Doon, the Grandparents Mass was organised by the two local primary schools in the village to celebrate Catholic Schools Week.
The grandparents and the school children attended a special Mass in the parish church. The celebrant was Fr Jimmy Donnelly, the parish priest. The mass opened with Brid Ryan welcoming the grandparents, saying: ‘Today, we want to say thank you for everything you do. Thank you for being there when we need you, for cheering us on, and for always making us feel special. We love you so much”.
Pupils from both schools provided singing and musical performances. Refreshments for all afterwards were enjoyed in the Convent Primary School organised by the Parent Associations of both schools.
Audrey Crowe, the secretary in the Doon CBS Primary School acted as photographer for the occasion. Following the mass pupils got an opportunity to get together with Nan and Grandad, show them their classrooms, their projects and favourite books.
Getting home early with the grandparents was cited as being the highlight of the occasion for many.
Pakie O’Brien of Carrigbeg, Doon, and Seanie Fox were among the oldest grandparents present and both former students of the CBS enjoyed the occasion immensely.
