Bishop Paul has announced diocesan appointments that will come into effect on August 15th. In making these appointments, he is conscious that many changes will have to be made in and by our diocese in the coming years. For this year, he says, he is making minimal but necessary changes.
From my own point of view, these minimal changes include me! Just over a week ago Bishop Paul spoke with about a possible change and though he graciously offered me the choice, I felt that in fairness to him and being aware of diocesan needs, I was not able to say no. Before leaving, I told him, I would be guided by his wishes – knowing that our diocese, like all dioceses, is going through a time of soul-searching and change.
I will be moving to the parish of Tubbercurry, which has been without a resident priest since the retirement of Fr Martin Jennings due to ill-health. Fr Joseph Gavigan, currently parish priest of Ballaghaderreen, will be moving to Kilmovee. I know that you will welcome him and keep him in your prayers. Fr Paul Kivlehan, currently curate in Ballaghaderreen, will become Administrator there and will be the only priest in the parish. This, in itself, is a significant change and truly reflects our situation.
Needless to say, I am saddened by the thoughts of leaving this parish where I have been so happy for twelve years. I am thankful to each and every one of you for your prayers, unwavering kindness and support. A move like this brings challenge and uncertainty and, God willing, strength will be found to meet both.
Please remember me in prayer and please recognise in these changes, the hand of God and the needs of our diocese.
God bless you all.
Vincent.
I am sad to l earn about this move because it us very evident how much – of ” everything” – you have shared to make Kilnocee such a vibrant community
Change has many motives / reasons and often is not a good choice. Staying the course and maintaining continuity is often a wiser decision. Among your many virtues are kindness, charity and courage. The latter will ensure your continued success wherever you land .
God Speed
Andy
Father Vincent,
I live in the USA; however, when COVID Mass restrictions were introduced in our country, I began searching for the “live streaming” of a worthwhile Sunday liturgy. A liturgy where the celebrant gives a Spirit -filled homily based on the Sunday scripture readings and correlates it to real life experiences. Lo and behole, I tuned into your liturgy last July 4th! I have listened to and reflected on your gift of understanding scripture and the ability of sharing its application to real life ever since that lucky Sunday!
The States, too, have returned to physical presence at liturgy, but I also look forward to your weekly live-streamed liturgy – especially your scriptures based homily. So sad to hear that these worthwhile homilies might be gone forever come August 15. I am sure the parishioners of Kilmovee will miss you! So will I! Please continue Webcam when you go to Tubbercurry as you have, perhaps among many, another faithful listener in America who would love to continue to share the spirituality of your weekly Liturgy/homily.
An ever grateful American of Kilmovee parents
fr Vinccent
wishing you Gods blessing on your move to Tubbercurry
i know you will be lonely leaving your parish where you served for 12 years
but in my opinion Kilmovees loss is Tubbercurrys gain
just in case i forget again i wish you every good blessing and good health on your anniversary 14th june ( 34 years )
best wishes Eileen Scanlon Toolan Lavagh