Bishop Denis Nulty is inviting families across the 56 Parishes of the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin to a ‘Picnic in Punchestown’. The picnic is part of diocesan preparations for next year’s World Meeting of Families which will take place in Ireland in August 2018. This is also an opportunity to reach out to all families of the diocese and to gather them together for an event filled with fun, friendship and faith.

Bring your own picnic, there will be spot prizes for the best picnic displays! Feel free to bring a little extra food for a sharing table. A fun packed and entertaining programme has been finalised for this Free Event for families from across the diocese. Among the activities on offer will be Face-Painting, Stilt Walkers, a Pet Corner, Pony Rides and lots of Children’s Activities and Games. The Official opening will be at 3pm where Bishop Denis will lead a 4km fun walk around the race track.

Included on the day will be a display of UN vehicles from the nearby Curragh Camp with Military Personnel on hand to share stories about the Irish contribution to the UN peace-keeping force.

Music for the event is being organised by Margaret Connaughton and Fr. Liam Lawton and will include local Choirs and dance groups as well as some very special surprise guests, including Irish country music star Derek Ryan and renowned Irish soprano Celine Byrne.

So spread the word among your cousins, grandparents, aunts and uncles and get your Family Picnic ready to bring, to what promises to be a great afternoon of family fun. Bishop Denis is looking forward to seeing you there regardless of the weather, though lots of sunshine is expected! Hope to see you there.!