THE STORY BEHIND THE GIFT OF THE ORGAN

RECEIVED BY RUSHWEE CHOIR OCTOBER 2005.

By J.J. PRICE - ORGANIST.

"Today we celebrated the Month's Memory Mass of Maisie Reilly, originally from Creewood, as is her husband Eugene. I had the fortune of meeting this jovial and gracious lady many years ago when the Rathkenny Revels played in the Notre Dame Hall in Churchtown; both Maisie and Eugene then lived in nearby Dundrum. I guess Eugene was instrumental in having us there.

Both Eugene and Maisie were Godparents to Leona Markey, who is a member of our Choir. That being said, we offered to have the choir for Maisie?s funeral mass. Subsequently, Eugene wanted to pay the choir for their services, but we declined the offer as we felt we were giving this service to one of our own. However, Eugene did not leave it at that.

So it was put to him that, sometime at a future date, a new organ might be purchased for Rushwee Church and, if he wished, he could give a donation to the project.

However, Eugene insisted in funding the whole project in memory of his dear wife, Maisie.

So tonight Eugene wants to officially present the new organ to Fr. Stanley, who will accept it on behalf of the choir, in memory of Eugene's dear departed wife.

Thank you."

Oct 15th 2005