Girls' Friendly Society

'Bear Ye One another's burdens and so fulfil the law of Christ' Galatians 6:2

The Girls' Friendly Society was founded in London in 1875 by an Irish woman - Mrs Elizabeth Townsend. She wanted to help lonely girls who came from the country to work in the city. It was and indeed to this day is a society of friendship and recreation in which all girls might share, bound together in a fellowship of Christian love and service. It provides structured leisure time activities for girls and women of all ages through Personal development, Community awareness, Church life, Outdoor pursuits and Personal skills

This year's programme for Portlaoise branch:

•  Composed a prayer on the theme of Helping.

•  Filled shoe boxes with gifts for sick & poor children round the world

•  Had a Stay over in Ballyfin Hall where we completed the Home Nursing Badge and enjoyed other activities.

•  Art and Craft Badge work.

•  Dancing Badge.

•  Visited the Cinema

•  Entered in the Craft and Bible Study Competitions in the Diocese.

•  Enrolment Service- 6 girls enrolled in their next age group. Jenna Holmes and Martha Allen enrolled as Junior Leaders.

•  All Ireland Camp in Wesley College- 8 girls enjoyed the Aquatic Centre, Carlingford Adventure, crafts, quizs's, disco, morning worship, and made many new friends into the bargain.

•  Table Quiz with other Branches in Castlecomer.

•  Annual Diocesan Service and Prize giving .

•  Closing Night with Parents and Friends.

'Leaders 2006-2007:  Ms Ruth Meredith, Mrs Jean Claxton and Ms Claire Thompson.

We meet in the Parochial Hall at 7.30 - 9.00 pm every second Friday during the school year for fun and fellowship.