by Vincent | Nov 30, 2016 | Reflections, Religion, Photography
Hello there!
I’ve been in Mullaghmore the past few days. An Advent Retreat in the Star Of The Sea Retreat Centre is the reason I’m here. The group was small, six and a few joined us from time to time, but I’m glad to have had the few days with them. I had good memories of staying here last year and walking the “loop” and had hoped to do so again. Unfortunately I picked up a cold in recent days and it sort of flaked me a bit. The result, no walk but I’ll survive!
Just had the final talk with the group and will shortly celebrate Eucharist before heading home. I spoke to the group just now about Verbs in the Christmas Story – “Listen”, “Let’s GO and SEE”, “They DID him homage”, “Mary TREASURED these things in her heart” – verbs call for action and action is in response to something – someone. God’s call.
Talked a bit about being happy in your space and knowing that you make a difference there. I’d hope we can be grateful for the difference we make and grateful too for the places we live and the people that surround us.
I’m only saying!!
by Vincent | Nov 25, 2015 | General Interest, Photography
I’ve spent the past few days in Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo. It’s not my first time here but it is the first time I remember spending time around here and I have to say, it’s a lovely part of my home county.
Since Monday evening, I have been in the Star of The Sea, Retreat and Conference Centre. I was asked some months ago by the director, Sr Kathleen, if I’d lead a Pre-Advent Retreat. I said I would but, apart from that, didn’t really know what to expect from the days. I didn’t know how many would be here or what sort of group. As it turned out there were ten Religious Sisters here from different parts of the country; Donegal, Cavan, Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo and Galway. Only one of them was known to me. I was happy to see her here as it gave me a bit of confidence facing into the days. I told her that too!!
The days went well, thank God and the response has been good. It’s been a pleasant few days. I made an attempt to walk yesterday (Tuesday) but didn’t go too far. The day was cold and the rains not far away. Last night I went to visit a couple and their children in Kinlough and another family in Grange. Was good to have the chance to catch up there too.
The walk happened today – just short of 5K of a circuit walk that took me along the coastline. It wasn’t the best of days but the scenery was spectacular. Certainly a place to visit again on a sunnier day! Please God, that will happen. Felt proud of Sligo as I watched the ocean move in and out against the coastline. Thought it could and would hold its head with any part of the country.
The retreat is almost over but I feel its memories will remain with me for a while. Hopefully some of it with the ten too!!
