Earlier today I met some cousins who are visiting from USA. We arranged to meet at Knock Shrine and had lunch together. Some I’d have known from before, with others it was a first time meeting. Enjoyed the company very much and was good to catch up with those I know and get to know those I didn’t. JFK’s line came to mind “A stranger is a friend I’ve yet to meet” …
Before meeting them I went to the Basilica for a minute. Decided to take a little video of the Basilica which looks so good. Posted to YouTube so have a look
After lunch we went home to Moygara and my brother Gerard took the family to see the home of their ancestors in Fauleens. I think there is not much of the home left now but even to stand on the ground has meaning.
I suppose we take our place for granted a bit and it’s all very local to us. It’s when you see how much it means to children and grandchildren of those who emigrated, you begin to re-assess the appreciation of what’s local.
Last week I had the good fortune to spend a bit of time with priests from the Diocese of Killaloe on their Diocesan Retreat. Held in Knock, it was local enough to me and I had the chance to go home a few times during the days. That said, I was happy to be with these men and to share a bit of their journey.
I had the chance to meet up with some priests I'd have known since Seminary days and others that I've had the chance to work with through the years. I was especially happy to meet there, Bishop Willie Walsh - retired Bishop of Killaloe - a man for whom I've great admiration. He brought a lot to the gathering and, as said, I was glad to see him there.
In many ways a Diocesan Retreat is a good chance to look at the road being travelled, to recognise some of the blind spots on that road but also to rejoice in some of the glorious views and opportunities the road affords us. I'd like to think we did just that.
Following the few days, I was happy to be back again in Kilmovee. Having talked about diocesan priesthood, prayed a little about it, it was good to "live" it and be among people again who share and struggle, enliven and enrich - people who make a difference in my life.
Well, what did you think of the RDS? I was happily surprised by the numbers attending and by the general atmosphere of the place. It was in the RDS and before this I attended the odd Spring Show, Motor Show and a Neil Diamond Concert there so it was quite a different experience in many ways and yet there was a similarity. The main “hall” was given over to displays of all sorts, from Liturgical Vestments to Amplification Systems, Religious books and literature, internet services for churches and countless stands promoting vocations to the Diocesan Priesthood, religious life and Missionary societies and, as they say, “much much more”! It was amazing to see so much material, focused on church and church life under one roof. Even more amazing to see people spend time with it, being drawn to it and at home with it. There were various speakers and workshops but they seemed to fill up quickly. More demand than space and that too was a good thing. It showed a desire in people to hear something different and positive. There was a very beautiful “Prayer Space” and this was well availed of as was the on-going opportunity to attend the Sacrament of Reconciliation. There was an open air ceremony around Reconciliation and Forgiveness and it was quite moving, not least for its powerful music and song.
One of the best parts, for me, was meeting so many people – a lot of priest friends from around the country and having the sense of “being” a priest and needing to be a priest. Overall, I have to say, it was a good experience. Please God it will have some lasting effects for all of us.
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