Kilmore Retreat

Some months ago I was involved in a “Day of Recollection” with a number of priests from the Diocese of Kilmore (www.kilmorediocese.ie) and was later asked if I’d lead the annual Priests’ Retreat this year.  An old priest friend once told me “I never say yes to something in September that I’d not do in the morning” and there’s certainly a wisdom in that!  It’s easy to say “yes” to something when it seems far away.  That “yes” gets a bit more problematic when the far away gets closer Anyway, the retreat took place this week (from Monday 21st to Friday 25th June) and was held in Dromantine – an S.M.A. house near Newry, Co. Down.  Thank God it went well.  Phew!!!

I really enjoyed the few days there and the company of the priests from Kilmore who attended and their bishop as well – Bishop Leo O’Reilly.  They could not have been any more welcoming and the days were pleasant, the support was excellent and the prayers were sustaining.  Thanks to all involved.

Dromantine is a truly beautiful place.  Thanks to the SMA Fathers who made us all so welcome and to Fr Des and Sr Mary who did so much to help.  The food …….. enough could not be said for it.  Excellent and helped thanfully by the lovely walks on the campus and nearby countryside.  I am so glad to have been there.

A few photos of the place ……..

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Another bonus of the few days was getting to meet some friends I’d not seen in a while who lived close enough to Dromantine – Sinead McCaughley, her husband and family and Paudie and Rhona McKiver.  It was great to see them.