Huge bonfires were lit at strategic locations around the West Waterford village of Ballysaggart last Sunday evening to mark the historic breakthrough of the county's minor hurling team, who captured an All-Ireland title after a lapse of over 60 years. Victory was especially sweet as two of Ballsaggart's finest, Shane and Stephen Bennett, were to the fore in the Deise's great win.

Prior to the sporting celebration there was a major religious celebration on Friday night last (6th Sept.) when parishioners gathered in St. Mary's Church, Ballysaggart for a special centenary Mass. Officiating were: Fr. Robert Arthure, Canon William Ryan, Fr. Michael Walsh, Fr. Michael Cullinan and special guest, Bishop William Lee. Bishop Lee, who has battled serious illness in recent times, got a wonderfully warm welcome from the congregation.

DEDICATED COMMITTEE

The people of Ballysaggart, Bishop Lee said, were justifiably proud of St. Mary's - a church that had been a focal point of religious devotion for 100 years. In challenging times, a return to the core principles of Christianity was vital, Bishop Lee said. He went on acknowledge the time and commitment put in by the centenary committee under the stewardship of hardworking chairman, Mr. Pat Geoghegan.

Following the ceremony worshipers were invited to the local community centre for refreshments. Once again the organisational prowess of the centenary committee was seen to good effect as they catered very efficiently for a very substantial crowd.

Bishop Lee, accompanied by the aforementioned Pat Geoghegan, Ann Carey (centenary committee secretary), Fr. Michael Cullinan, Bridie Murphy (sacristan) and Maureen Feennessy (baker), oversaw the cutting of a specially commissioned cake which was prepared by Maureen.

According to Pat Geoghegan, the event had run smoothly and he was anxious that his fellow centenary committee members be thanked for all their hard work.
 

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