Dripsey National School, Co. Cork

All very good, age appropriate, fun ways to present a serious message like been unkind and how much people’s feelings are hurt. The children loved the action songs, and the actions for the creation story. The ladies were really kind to staff – seemed very aware of how schools are and there was a sense of care for well-being of both children and adults throughout the whole thing – enjoyable in every way.

Ms. Dineen – Junior and Senior infants.

Cloghroe National School, Co. Cork

The Mission kept a very good atmosphere in the school. It is something very positive and we are grateful for it. The children loved it.

James Fenessy – Principal & Staff

One of the Kids said she loved the mission because she was learning something and having fun at the same time.

Berrings National School, Co. Cork

Thank you most sincerely for all your work with our pupils and staff this week. It was a most enjoyable week and the activities were so engaging for our pupils. They really enjoyed it. Thank you for your dedication and guidance throughout the week. Blessings on your continued work. Grá & Sonas Mrs. Joan-Marie Healy,  Principal, Staff, Pupils and Parents

Vicarstown National School, Co. Cork

“The mission was a very important and worthwhile experience for
the whole community. The boys and girls engaged with their
catholic faith through singing, mime, drama, games, action songs
and puppet shows. We had great feedback from staff and parents.”

Peter Mulcahy -Principal

Bunscoil Chríost Rí Turner’s Cross. Co. Cork – March 2020

“A very positive mission in our school. Céilí Community were very committed and passionate about their faith. The children really enjoyed the mission, especially the dramas and puppets”.

Mr Eoin Fitzpatrick Principal Bunscoil Chríost Rí, Turner’s Cross. Cork City

Mount Collins National School, Co. Limerick – November 2019

“A big thank you the Céilí Community who visited our school this week. Both staff and pupils thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Peter and Ann brought religion to life in a fun-loving manner. The children learned all about Jesus’ love for us through stories, song and drama. They were actively involved and always engaged. Wishing ye every success and we are looking forward to welcoming you to our school in the future.”

​Ms Máiread Lane Principal Teacher

St Mary’s Parish Primary School, Drogheda Co. Louth – October 2019

“We had a wonderful two weeks with Sr Mary and her team of Céili Volunteers. They worked seamlessly and in a very fun-loving way with the children and put on two “Celebration” shows with ease and a warmth reflective of their mission. Their simple message of “back to our Christian roots” and “Rejoice, Renew, Return” was very well portrayed in the songs and dramatic stories to Children. We wish you good luck in your work.”

Ms Orla Briscoe Vice Principal

Pictured are Ms Orla Briscoe – Vice Principal, Fr Phil Gaffney – Parish Priest and Mr John Weir – Principal.

Crosserlough National School, Co. Cavan – April 2019

“The mission was brilliant. There was a great variety of input. Frances, Ann and Tony were so calm and engaging with the children. The children had so much respect for the Céilí Mission Team.  The mission was very well organised. The timetable school friendly”

Drumkilly National School Co. Cavan – April 2019

“It was a very enjoyable experience for both teachers and pupils. Sr Mary, Marian Sheridan and Mary Reilly had the children in the palm of their hands. The workshops were thoroughly enjoyed and that was in evidence at the Presentation Evening. The atmosphere was great – God was real”

St. Patrick’s National School, Kilnaleck, Co. Cavan

​ “The mission was great. The reflection for the staff and parents each morning was prayerful and peaceful. The music and action songs engaged the children and led us closer to God”.

Ms Kitty Tinnery Principal

Ballymore National School Co. Westmeath – March 2019

“I have spoken with the teachers and have asked for feedback on the mission. Everyone enjoyed it and felt that the children enjoyed it too. Teachers enjoyed the morning prayer sessions each morning. The plays and music were very suitable and simple to implement. Well done and many thanks”.

​Mrs Catherine Daly Principal

Scoil Chaitríona National School, Cappamore, Co. Limerick – November 2018

“We all got something from the wonderful week of mission. This was evident from the Thursday Night Presentation. How happy the children were, and they all knew their parts. During the mission the children were engaged with the team and were comfortable with the themes”.

Mrs Denise Nally Vice Principal

2 Ladies in the picture Mrs Denise Nally Vice Principal & Mrs Mary Coffey SNA Teacher

Bilboa National School Co. Limerick – November 2018

​​“Our school mission went well. The children responded to the music, dramas and sign language. We had very positive feedback from the parents” “The experience was enjoyed by all our pupils and staff. We fully appreciate your dedication to your missionary work.”

Mr Pat Ryan Vice – Principal Scoil Críost Rí National School Bilboa Cappamore Co. Limerick.

People in Picture. The Vice – Principal and some staff member

Bweeng National School, Co. Cork – October 2018

“Our school mission brought religion to life for the children and made it fun. The drama and music added to it all. The Céilí Primary Team was very professional”.

Mrs Collette Sheehy – Principal

Dromahane National School, Co. Cork – October 2018

“The children really enjoyed and got a lot out of the mission. The mission team was excellent and fitted in very well with the staff. Great faith experience for all involved”.

Mr Dennis Murray – Principal

St. Aidan’s Primary School, Magilligan, Co. Derry – May 2018

“A Special word of thanks …….

St. Aidan’s Primary School was blessed as we gathered to pray; The Céilí Community beautifully showed us the way,

We shared with each other friendship and love; Receiving sweet blessings from heaven above.

​Céilí increased our love of sweet Jesus, our light; Our beautiful Father we trust and hold tight,

Now and forever, each passing day; Through Céilí, we trust God to guide the way.

Thank you and God bless the Céilí Community.”

​Mrs Wilson, Staff and children.

Moneynick Primary School, Toome Bridge, Co. Antrim – April 2018

We spent the last week in the company of Sr Ena and Sr Rosaleen- and these sisters truly brought Céilí to our small school community! Each morning the staff, parents and grandparents had an opportunity to join in Morning Prayer. This was a time to be still, for quiet contemplation and to reflect on ourselves and the day ahead. The assemblies truly engaged our children and they were entertained by the role play, puppet shows, stories and songs. It was lovely for our children to learn a little sign language as they sang.

Classroom preparation of sketches and singing really paid off, when the community came together on Thursday evening in Sacred Heart Chapel, Cargin to celebrate our School Mission with our families – a great night of entertainment. For me, this was the highlight of the week, when we could truly see the reality of our chosen theme: ‘We are God’s Work of Art’!

We (pupils and staff) learned a lot during this week about how God works in all of us and how, when we help others in the slightest of ways, we are all growing in and sharing in the love of God!

Mrs Emer Hughes – Principal

Millquarter Primary School, Co. Antrim – April 2018

“We were delighted to welcome the Céilí Mission Team to our school. The children thoroughly enjoyed the faith activities, prayer and presentations.

The staff and parents welcomed the opportunity for prayer and reflection each morning”

Mrs McNamee – Principal

St Oliver Plunkett Primary School Toome, Co. Antrim – April 2018

“Many thanks to the members of the Céilí community who spent a week in our school.

The children enjoyed the time and were enabled to continue to be little missionaries”.

Mr Martin Whyte Principal

St Mary’s Convent Primary School, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary – March 2018

“a wonderful school mission… the children enjoyed learning about Jesus’ love for all of us through stories, songs and drama… uplifting reflection for staff in the mornings…All pupils had an opportunity to showcase all the songs and dramas they had learned for their families and the wider community. This was a very moving experience as the pupils of St Mary’s shared the gospel message of God’s love for us all. The lives of all the pupils and staff of St. Mary’s have been truly enriched by your presence in our school”

​Mrs Mary Rose Cleary – RE Co-ordinator

CBS Primary Nenagh, Co Tipperary – March 2018

“The team efficiently got us to pull back from the craziness that is primary school and take time to pray, to reflect and to celebrate our faith.

We found the team humble and thoughtful. The songs and sketches were catchy entertaining and engaging for the children who thrived on the opportunity to showcase their learning for their parents on the night of the Presentation.

They listened to children’s questions respectfully and answered them honestly. It was a pleasure to have the team in our school and to expose the children to their deep and certain faith.”

Sheila Brophy, Principal

Sr Ena Devlin Pictured with Mrs Sheila Brophy

Gaelscoil, Nenagh, Co Tipperary – March 2018

“Go raibh míle maith agaibh don obair álainn a rinne sibh linn go léir sa scoil i rith na seachtaine.  Bhí sé go hiontach luachmhar do na páistí ár gCríostaíocht a cheiliúradh mar phobal scoile. Guím gach rath ar bhur gcuid oibre amach anseo.”

Príomhoide agus muintir na scoile.

Bean Uí Éanaín, Príomhoide

St Mary’s Boys School, Lucan, Co. Dublin – November 2017​

“All the boys enjoyed the school Mission experience. The Mission team managed to teach lessons and activities that were informative with an element of fun, and they managed to get the right balance. It was refreshing to hear hymns and stories from the Gospel illustrated in a child-friendly way. I couldn’t fault the programme and look forward to facilitating it again in the future.”

​Principal Mr Dara Burke

Scoil Mhuire, Cnoc a’ Bhile, Co. Tiobraid Árann – October 2017

“It was the faith and missionary spirit of the Céilí Mission Team that shone through. It positively impacted the staff and pupils. It emphasized the missionary role of everyone”.

Principal Ms Eleanor O’Dwyer

St Brigid’s National School, Donaskeigh Co. Tipperary – October 2017

“Our mission was disrupted by storm Ophelia, yet in the days Céilí Community were in our school there was a great re-action both spiritually and musically among the staff and children”.

Principal Mr Pat O’Carroll

Gael Scoil Uí Choimín, Cill Rois, Co.Clár – September/October 2017

Míle buíochas as an obair go léir a rinne sibh linn.  D’fhoghlaíomar an-chuid agus bhaineamar an-taitneamh as.

Brí Ní Chomhraí agus gach duine sa Ghaelscoil

St. Francis Boys School, Clara, Co. Offaly

​”Thank you to Frances, Sister Enda and Marian for their dedication and hard work while they were with us for the Parish Mission. They were extremely adaptable to any changes to their timetable which had to be applied during the week. The children were completely engaged with the message and really enjoyed the classes. This was apparent the night of the presentation in the Church. In speaking with all class teachers, the response was all very positive with how all the children really enjoyed the week and all the material. The puppet show was really enjoyed by all.”

Principal Clare Kenny

Askeaton Senior National School, Co. Limerick

“Parish of Askeaton/Ballysteen is hosting a Mission being facilitated by the Céilí Catholic Community. The team of Missionaries are immersed themselves in the community for the week. A very important part of their programme for the week is took place in our school, where they were teaching and engaging with the pupils in an age-appropriate way as they spread their message of Joy and Love of God. The pupils of Askeaton Senior NS on Thursday night entertained their families and the wider community in the parish church in Askeaton show-casing many of the songs and short plays they have learnt during the week from the guest teachers. The theme for Thursday was “Jesus on the dance-floor”. Congratulations to the pupils, their teachers and the missionaries on a beautiful and uplifting performance.”

Principal Mr. O Connell

Askeaton Junior National School, Co. Limerick

I think the mission was a great success in our school. The children particularly enjoyed assembly time each morning and a great variety of material was taught to the children during the week in a child friendly way. The presentation of the children’s work in the church was also lovely to see and was enjoyed by parents,teachers and children alike.

Principal Aine O Connor

Scoil Mhuire Kiskeam National School, Mallow, Co. Cork

“There was a lovely atmosphere here all week. The pupils loved the catchy songs,puppets shows, music, drama and fun. I was amazed at the amount of work that was covered in such a short time. I know the children looked forward to it and fully participated in it every day. The reflections each morning for the teachers and parents was a lovely calm way to start each day. I think the children will remember the Mission with fondness. I would like to thank Sr. Mary, Sr. Rosaleen and Sr. Enda Maria for conducting the mission in our school from all the pupils, parents and staff of Scoil Mhuire.”

Mrs. Agnes Cronin, Principal

Our Lady and St. Patrick’s Primary School, Downpatrick

“The Céilí team were friendly, courteous, calm and gentle. The timetable was clear and concise. the sessions were of suitable length and pace. The content was well pitched and made the children reflect on what they had heard. the message of God’s love for each child got through with the children’s level of excitement being really high. The staff and parents loved the chance to participate so fully both in the Liturgy and presentation. A very hope-filled, positive week for all involved.”

Mrs. S. Prenter, Principal

St. Colmcille’s Primary School & Learning Support Centres, Downpatrick

“Thank you to Céilí community for making our school experiences of the mission so enjoyable. I was immensely proud of the children and throughout the week they fully engaged in the classes, drama and songs – especially the new P1 children, who only three weeks into their new term, delivered a presentation that was truly savoured by their parents. The Mission is a great way to link the Parish community into the life of the school. We thank the Mission team for all they have done for us, and we wish them well in their work in other schools.”

Mr. Declan Murray – Principal

St. Brigid’s Primary School, Downpatrick

“The Mission team used a variety of activities to engage the children in prayer and singing as they explored the way of Christ. Our children thoroughly enjoyed the week’s events and participated fully in them. The staff and parents also enjoyed the week and the opportunity to reflect on God’s message and the very important role they have in its delivery. The team very quickly built up a great rapport with the children, staff, parents and were able to engage them fully in the various activities and events. They were extremely well prepared, and their delivery of the various activities was very skilfully carried out.”

Mr. Philip Artherton Principal

St. Mary’s Primary School, Arney, Cleenish Parish

“JOY”. “The Céilí Team were with us all of last week as they began the Parish Mission. Sr Mary, Sr Rosaleen and Pasi worked with all the children in the school teaching us about the Gospel and Jesus’ teachings. We all had a great week culminating in a fantastic celebration in St Mary’s Church”

Mrs Helen Ingram

St. Mary’s Primary School, St Mary’s Place, Co. Dublin

‘Our thanks to the Mission team who have worked with us this week. Sr.Mary, Frances and Pasi worked with the children each day, sharing a range of songs and stories in assemblies and in class sessions. The children were prepared for a prayer service on Thursday evening and they enjoyed the opportunity to perform in the church. They particularly liked the action songs. We had positive feedback from the parents who attended. We thank the team for their gentleness, kindness and positivity throughout the week.’

Eadaoin Kelly – Principal

St Helen’s Junior School, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin – March 2016

“Hello Sr Mary,​

I asked the staff as a group to give an evaluation. All really enjoyed the week and felt that the children had too. Here are a few pointers that were mentioned:

-There was a lovely sense of rapport and community in the school during the week -All the children’s questions were answered (regardless of how bizarre by adult standards!) -The children really loved the action songs.

…….The staff felt that the timing wasn’t great for us i.e., with Seachtain na Gaeilge and Easter to plan for & celebrate this week and students in class- but they quickly added, there never is a right time i.e., a non-busy week!

I hope you will have a well- earned rest at some point over the Easter break. Many thanks for all your work with our children. Take care”.

Miriam Dowdall – Principal.

St Helen’s SNS School, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin – March 2016

“We had a great week. The children thoroughly enjoyed it. They were actively involved and engaged in a very varied programme – puppet show, sketches, songs, presentations etc. and all with an underlying message of God’s love for them. It was lovely to invite parents/staff to morning prayer. It was very well organised, and the team quickly built up a lovely rapport with all the children. A sincere thank you to Sr Ena, Sr Enda Maria, Joseph, and Frances for a wonderful experience. I hope many more primary schools have the good fortune to experience the Céilí community in action in their schools.”

Mary O Leary – Principal

Holy Family Primary School, Co. Derry – ​February 2016

​On behalf of all the pupils, staff and parents of Holy Family Primary and Nursery School, Derry I wish to thank you ( the Céilí team) for all the time, effort and inspiration that you gave to our school and parish mission. The impact that you made to our school community over the past week has been significant and I believe that the children’s response to your engagement evidenced clearly how much they enjoyed the mission.

I wish you all every success with your on-going work and assure you that you will remain in the thoughts and prayers of the Holy Family community, and we look forward to seeing you all again in the not-too-distant future.

Mr Garry Matthewson – Principal

St Eithne’s Primary School, Co. Derry – February 2016

​As we come to the end of our week of Mission here in St. Eithne’s Primary School, Derry, I would like to take the time to write a few words about our experience. We began the Mission on Monday morning with prayer for our staff. Many of the teachers felt a little awkward and uncertain about what lay ahead of them in Mission week. As the hours and days unfolded, they became more and more relaxed with their Mission experiences. The children, on the other hand dived straight into the Mission with eyes wide with excitement and wonder, as children faithfully do.

The wide range of activities offered to us all were well received and greatly enjoyed by children and staff alike. By the Presentations on Thursday, there was a fantastic buzz all around the school. Parents had gotten wind of the children’s Mission experiences and came, in full force, to view first-hand what the Mission was all about. Leaving our Assembly Hall, they too had become enthused and touched by our Mission message.

As the Team leaves our school, they leave behind a very different school from the one that greeted them on Monday.  Through the hard work of Sr. Ena, Sr. Enda Maria, Mary and Pasi we have all been led closer to Jesus and His Gospel messages. We thank the Team for all that they have done for us this week. They have left us with a legacy that will last for months and years ahead. We wish you all well with the Parish Mission and know that a sound foundation has been set for it this week. Mr. McDowell, the Staff, and children of St. Eithne’s Primary School.

Mr McDowell Head Teacher St Eithne’s

Ballinspittle NS, Co. Cork – November 2015

“Many thanks to Céilí Community who visited the school this week. They prepared the children wonderfully for a presentation in the church. They prepared lovely songs and drama pieces of various stories from the bible. They also have prepared the children for mass in the church this Sunday. Thank you for your help and work with all our classes this week.”

Tommy Gunning – Principal

Ballinadee NS, Co. Cork – November 2015

“…The children really enjoyed the action songs. The mission certainly made us all stop in our tracks and take a deeper ‘look’… Bail ó Dhia oraibh go léir…le gach dea- ghuí. ”

Alice Kingstone – Principal

St Killian’s NS Mullagh, Co. Cavan – October 2015

The children were very open and enthusiastic both prior to and during the mission. The high points of the mission for the school were the Presentation by the senior classes on the Thursday night and the junior classes on the Friday afternoon. ​Both these Presentations took place in St Killian’s Church in front of large congregations. Well done to all concer

Cross St Killian’s NS, Co. Cavan – October 2015

Despite the building work being done on the school our mission went exceptionally well. There was tremendous support from the staff. It was a very enjoyable week of mission.

St Brendan’s PS Birr, Co. Offaly – October 2015

Hi Joseph, Sr. Ena, Frances & Pasi,

Thank you once again for a wonderful week. We found the Céilí mission team to be very caring, energetic, organised and passionate. Sr. Ena, Frances, Pasi and Joseph are very experienced and were well able to handle our 220 boys. Our school life carried on as regards literacy, numeracy, sport etc but there was a special atmosphere in the school all week. The staff and pupils enjoyed the week, and we have a lovely spirit in the school after it. I would recommend any school or parish to get involved.

Niall Crofton – Principal

Carrig NS Birr, Co. Offaly – October 2015

Frances {Céilí Community} & staff of Carrig NS

Thank you so much for all you gave our children during your week with us. The children thoroughly enjoyed their time with you and it’s an experience that will live long in our memories here at Carrig NS.

Míle Buíochas, Tony and all the staff

Mercy Primary School (Girls) Birr, Co. Offaly – October 2015

We were very fortunate to have four members of the Céilí community work in our school for the last week. The students thoroughly enjoyed the week’s programme. They engaged well in the songs; role play and drama. Overall, it was a very positive experience for our whole school community.

Ms Anne Cooney

Killeen NS (Birr), Co. Offaly – October 2015

The staff and students at our school had a very enjoyable week of prayer, song, stories, and drama. I know the children looked forward to it every day. It was great that all children were able to participate in a calm, non-pressured environment.

The content was age appropriate. The mission team engaged with the children and the staff. The week was spiritual, calm and peaceful. Parents were very positive about the mission with many children telling them about the mission.

I think the children will remember the mission with fondness and hopefully with Jesus in their hearts. Thank You!

Mrs Bríd Connolly – Principal

St Theresa’s Primary School (Holy Family Parish Belfast) – May 2015

Our school community enjoyed a marvellous week with the Céilí Community. The staff, parents and children appreciated the efforts and professionalism of the mission team. Our school has been left with something very valuable to work on.

Scoil Bhríde, (Kilbride parish) Co. Roscommon – May 2015

For the last week Sr. Mary, Judith and Joseph have worked with the pupils in Scoil Bhríde. The pupils have really engaged with the programme and found it very enjoyable. The catchy songs, clever role plays, and lively dramas all appealed to the pupils, and they really looked forward to their time with the Missioners. The Thursday evening Presentation was thoroughly enjoyed by all the parents and was a great success. Both, myself and the staff have been amazed at how much the pupils learned in such a short space of time. The only minor issue I would have with the week is that it did take up a lot of class time and I know that the staff did find it difficult to cover the rest of the curriculum.

I would like to thank Sr. Mary, Judith and Joseph for their hard work and wish them all the best for the future.

Shane O’Donnell – Principal

Roxboro NS (Kilbride parish), Co. Roscommon – April 2015

Our whole school community really enjoyed our week’s mission with Sister Ena, Sister Rosaleen and Joseph. The week was well structured, and the children thoroughly enjoyed the songs and activities and really loved the Thursday evening presentation to their parents. Overall, it was a positive and enriching experience for adults and children alike.

Michael Cleary – Principal

St. Mary’s NS, Trim, Co Meath – March 2015

The Céilí Community team were like a breath of fresh air when they came into our school with their special message of faith. They have a gentle way about them and an infectious enthusiasm that permeated every level of our school community – staff, pupils, and parents.

They navigated through a packed timetable with no fuss whatsoever and the fruits of their work were evident from the joy on the children’s faces and in their voices as they performed their sketches and songs at the two Presentations on Thursday. What a perfect preparation it was for Easter and a reminder to us all that we are precious in God’s sight.

The reflections each morning for the teachers, was a lovely calm way to start the day and each of the Céilí team put their unique stamp on the week. We made five beautiful new friends. MÍle buÍochas daoibh!

We wish you blessings on your work and continued success with your special Mission, in spreading the message of Jesus’ love.

Siobhan Nally (R. E. co-ordinator)

St. Brigid’s N.S. Boardsmill, Co. Meath – March 2015

“…..I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sister Mary, Paul and Angela from the Céilí Community who were responsible for conducting the mission in our school. I would like to thank them for the calm, caring, spiritual and engaging way they interacted with the children, staff, and parents.

The mission was brilliantly organised, and it was wonderful to see all the children, including the children who are not Catholic, participate through music, drama and art. The presentation to the parents on the final day of the mission was a very enjoyable occasion. May God bless you….”.

Mr James Battersby – Principal

St Michael’s Boys school Trim, Co.Meath

“We all toughly enjoyed a wonderful week with Céilí Community Primary Mission Team. Céilí presented the Gospel in an active and exciting manner. They captured all the pupils’ attention and co-operation. It was exhilarating to see such enthusiasm… The evening presentation was so inspiring…..The school was ‘buzzing’ during the mission week with a positive atmosphere.”

Mr. Fergal Fitzpatrick – Principal

Cloontagh NS Killashee, Co. Longford – March 2015

“…The experience was a very positive one for the whole school community. The team was prayerful, respectful and inclusive. They prayed with the staff, the parents and the children. The team’s approach in the classrooms was child-friendly and tailored perfectly to suit each age group. The children were engaged through drama, music and fun. The children were given a real sense of God’s love in their lives. The faith and dedication of the team to their missionary work is truly inspiring.”

Pauline Ferguson – Principal

Scoil Mhuire, Clondra, Co Longford – March 2015

“We had a great week full of fun, songs, puppet shows and drama. The children really enjoyed learning about Jesus and what is means to be a Christian in a fun, joyful and action-packed way. The team made the Bible stories accessible and relevant to all the children, from Infants to Sixth Class. We appreciated the energy and enthusiasm of the Céilí team.”

Colette McManus (Principal)

Killashee Primary school, Co Longford – March 2015

“It was a great week…The week was well structured, and we were amazed at how much the pupils learned in a short space of time. The presentation was excellent, and it was nice to get the 2 schools, parents and grandparents together. I also liked the way Sr. Mary, Julia and Judith were so good at answering the questions that the pupils asked.”

Linda Leavey – Deputy Principal

Freemount National School, Co. Cork – November 2014

The visit of the Céilí Community to our school was a highly enriching experience for the whole of our school community. We found that the Céili Community promoted the best of Christian values, using a variety of media, including drama, music and puppetry.

I would have no hesitation in recommending them to any school thinking of inviting them.

James McAuliffe – Principal

St Berehert’s National School, Tullylease, Charleville Co. Cork – November 2014

“The children really enjoyed the two days that the Céilí Team was in our school. The parents commented on how much they benefitted from the experience. It was a beautiful experience for us all.”

Principal, Maria Collins and teacher, Nollaig Daly

Milford National School Milford, Co. Cork – November 2014

“All of us, children, parents and staff alike found the Céilí mission to our school most uplifting. It was great fun. I was amazed at the beautiful calming effect the team’s prayerful approach had on the whole school”.

Mrs Eileen McAuliffe – Principal

St Marys Primary School Edenderry Co. Offaly – October 2014

The mission to our school was a great success, Céilí community brought enthusiasm and positivity to the staff and students. They provided fun and variety, and the feedback from parents was very positive. Thankyou Céilí, for an enjoyable time.

Scoil Mhuire Ban Ríon, Edenderry, Co. Offaly – October 2014

The Céilí Community Primary Mission Team members Sr. Ena, Sr. Enda Maria, Judith and Joseph spent a week in our school as part of the Parish Mission.

It was a great experience for the whole school especially the children. The Team members worked with all classes which culminated in a wonderful Presentation of faith in the Church on Thursday evening. I was amazed at the amount of work that was covered in such a short amount of time. The children loved all the music, songs and dances which were taught with such enthusiasm and positivity. The Team captured the interest of all age groups, and the children are still singing the songs. Thanks to all the Mission Team for the uplifting experience.

Scoil Bhride National School, Edenderry Co. Offaly – October 2014

Thank you to the Céilí School Mission Team for helping to foster a deep sense of spiritual cohesion among our whole school community. You have certainly helped to nourish our faith and helped us to make our catholic school ethos more evident as we go about our daily routines. We thank you for laying deep Christian foundations with your specific methodologies that embrace God’s love, forgiveness and true self-worth as we here at Scoil Bhríde Primary School embark on an historic new school year that will see us move into our new school building …. le cúnamh Dé. Every blessing to Céilí Mission Team for the future.

Kevin Duffy – School Principal

Measúnú:  Gaelscoil Éadan Doire – October 2014

Ba mhaith liom an tSiúr Máire, Máire, Proinsias agus an fhoireann ar fad, a mholadh as ucht a n-obair ar fad.  Bhí seachtain álainn againn idir pháistí, mhúinteoirí agus tuismitheoirí.  Chabhraigh sé go mór linn gach duine a tharraingt le chéile ag tús an ré nua seo dúinn inár scoil álainn nua.  Creidim gur chuir sé go mór le h-atmasféar na scoile agus táim fíor – bhuioch daoibh as ucht sin.  Tá fáilte romhaibh teacht ar ais am ar bith dar ndóigh.

Le meas agus cairdeas,

Póla Ní Chinnsealaigh (Príomh oide)

Rathdonnell, NS, Kilmacrennan, Co. Donegal – May 2014

We had a wonderful two days with Céilí Community facilitators – Sr. Ena and Sr. Mary. I was in awe of how much work was covered and how they captured the children’s interest. Highlights for me were – the beautiful music and CD’s, the story of the Bible in demonstration form, the sign language songs and the children’s Presentation on Friday afternoon. The children’s favourites were – sign language songs, the Puppet shows, plays done by the Team and the song Pharaoh, Pharaoh.

Mrs. Grainne Duggan, Principal

Kilmacrennan NS – May 2014

The Céilí Community spent a week in our school in May 2014. They engaged with the children through a range of fun and engaging activities, using the mediums of song, drama, assemblies and much more to bring faith alive in our school.  I feel that the children were enriched by the experience.

The fruits of the labour were most evident in the uplifting Presentation by the children towards the end of the week. It was a wholly enjoyable evening that served to strengthen the home, school and community links.

John Devenney – Principal.

Boyle, Co. Roscommon – March 2014

“We just had a wonderful week of spiritual renewal in our school, facilitated by Sisters. Ena, Mary and Rosaleen from the Céilí Community. They were extremely well organised and used active learning methodologies to teach and to re-enforce important messages about the love Jesus has for us.  The Staff and children responded very positively to them.

The special celebration in the church on Thursday evening was a marvellously uplifting experience for the whole school community. The Sisters touched the lives of many during their week with us,

Míle buíochas.”

John McLoughlin – Principal

Mr John McLoughlin, and Staff Scoil na n-Aingeal Naofa, Boyle.

St. Joseph’s B. N. S. – March 2014

The Mission Team from Céilí Catholic Community visited St. Joseph’s B. N. S. in early March. They stayed for three days with us, and they were very enjoyable days. The Team filled us all with enthusiasm and positivity with their many and varied presentations.  The full school Presentation on Wednesday evening for parents and families was a huge success with only positive feedback from the wider community. Our Sunday Mass was also excellently attended and again the wider school community got an opportunity to view the excellent, positive work of the school and Céilí Community. Thanks to all the Mission Team for a wonderfully, positive experience.

Jerry Clifford, (Principal)

Principal, Grange National School

Céilí Community conducted a Mission in our school in March. The message of the Mission fitted in very well with the school ethos and the SPHE programme in valuing every pupil as precious in God’s sight and his special work of Art. The message has outlasted the Mission.

Mary Brett – Principal

Abbeycartron NS, Elphin – October 2013

“Our School Mission was a resounding success.

The Mission Team interacted expertly with pupils and Staff alike. The essential message of Jesus Christ was portrayed in a manner suitable to the respective age groups and the involvement of all pupils in the process, through music, drama, mime and song was uplifting.”

Michael Rock – Principal

Rathcroghan NS Mantua – October 2013

“The Mission was a very uplifting experience for both Staff and children. The Assemblies were lively and age appropriate. The Presentation and the children’s involvement in the Sunday Mass was something that they will remember for a long time.”

Myra Duffy, Principal

St. Cynoc’s, NS Ferbane, Co. Offaly – September 2013

“Céilí Community Primary School Team spent a week in our school as part of the Parish Mission. It was a wonderful experience for the whole school especially the children, an experience that all children should be given and one that the children in St Cynoc’s will always remember.”

Miss Mary Kenny – Principal

High Street, Belmont, Mission  Ferbane, Co. Offaly – September 2013

“The Mission has been a tremendously uplifting time for the staff and pupils of our school. The children have wholeheartedly participated in the prayers, readings, singing, dancing and puppet shows. We have moved closer to God, in a very personal way. We thank you, the Céilí Community, for helping us in our faith journey.”

Mrs. Kay Egan (Principal)

St. Mary’s P. S. Pomeroy, Co. Tyrone – May 2013

“Our school Mission was thoroughly enjoyable and uplifting. The enthusiasm of the Céilí team, the resources, the prayer and music brought God’s message to all of us in a real and meaningful way. The Thursday night Presentation was superb and wonderfully linked our school and parish community. Many thanks for a worthwhile and positive experience.”

Mr. Sean Devlin – Principal

Mr. Sean Devlin, Principal, with some of the Staff and Céilí members Paul and Angela Rock

St. Colman’s NS, Derriaghy, Lambeg – May 2013

“On Thursday May 16, 2013, we had the Key Stage 2 Presentation of faith in the Church, prepared by the Céilí Community Mission Team.  When I got home, I received a text message and it read: ‘Thank you as a parent and a parishioner – really proud of our parish school last night.’ That encompassed perfectly what the Mission brought to school and parish, and I want to say a huge thank you to the Céilí Team for helping to bring the faith alive to Derriaghy and St. Colman’s. Every school should hear witness to this experience – a living manifestation of the Holy Spirit at work.”

Mr. Gerry McVeigh – Principal

Presentation G.N.S., Mooncoin, Co. Kilkenny – April 2013

“The Céilí Community brought faith alive in our school. The experience was enjoyable, and all children were actively involved.

Each class prepared a presentation of faith, which took place in the Parish Church. This Celebration was great for the children but also for their families, judging by the feedback we got in school. The week was an uplifting one for all concerned.”

Breda O’Shea – Principal

Breda O’Shea (Principal) and some staff members, Presentation NS, Mooncoin)

Carrigeen NS, Mooncoin, Co. Kilkenny – April 2013

Principal and staff, Carrigeen, NS, Mooncoin, Co. Kilkenny

“I was very impressed with the Mission in our school as the team was highly organised. All activities were stimulating and varied.

The children found the whole experience exciting and enjoyable. Staff and pupils were engaged and enriched on many levels.”

Eamonn Donovan (Principal)

Scoil Mhuire Lourdes BNS, Mooncoin, Co. Kilkenny – April 2013

“The Mission Team was an extremely enriching experience for our whole school community. Any slight trepidation which may have been felt prior to a full week of prayer and liturgy during school time was gone by 11a.m. on Monday morning!

The children’s evening of musical and dramatic performances was presented to a standard that should have taken weeks to prepare!   We would encourage all Catholic

Primary Schools.

Some Scoil Mhuire Lourdes staff with Céilí members Paul and Angela Rock to partake in such a fantastic, vibrant week and witness the liturgy coming to life on the children’s faces and in their voices, as we all had the pleasure to do.

Bail o Dhia ar an obair! Well done Céilí Community and massive thanks from all pupils, parents and staff of Scoil Mhuire Lourdes BNS, Mooncoin, Co. Kilkenny.”

Mrs Kathy Egan

Saint Vincent de Paul Primary School, Co. Antrim – March 2013

….”holistic and highly motivational”…

“The School Mission Team had a holistic and highly motivational approach to their Mission; it was clearly child centred in line with the Catholic ethos of celebrating each child in Saint Vincent de Paul Primary School. They brought the message of faith alive in an enjoyable, inspirational and highly educational way. “We are God’s work of Art.”

All the children were actively involved in the learning through prayer, drama, music and art, which had clear links to the Curriculum. Throughout the week each class prepared a school Mission presentation that took place in Saint Vincent de Paul Church at the end of the mission. This celebration was thoroughly enjoyed by the families and friends of the children. All parents were welcome to join the Mission Team for a short prayer every morning. The Staff of Saint Vincent de Paul Primary School also participated in a daily thematic Prayer Service that gave them an opportunity to take time, pause and reflect on aspects of their faith.”

Mrs Bronagh Mc Veigh – Principal

Sacred Heart National School, Newbawn, Co. Wexford

“Our mission was a great success. It filled the staff and children with enthusiasm and positivity. The scriptures were brought to life by the mission team and the Presentation in Church was superb”.

Eamonn Codd – Principal & Staff

Adamstown National School, Co Wexford

“The Mission Team from Céilí Community spent a week in our school. They provided fun and variety for the children while helping to impart God’s message. The feedback from parents, especially following the Thursday evening Presentation, was very positive. Thank you for an enjoyable week.”

Nicholas Flynn – Principal & Staff

Raheen National School

“The week the ‘Céilí Community’ visited Raheen National School will live long in the memory of our pupils and our Staff. The comment of a 4th Class pupil sums it all up: ‘It was a special and fun experience learning about Jesus in song, dance and prayer.’ I would wholeheartedly recommend the school Mission week. “

John Curran – Principal & Staff