Today at Mass, we heard the Gospel account of Simeon meeting Mary and Joseph in the Temple when they brought Jesus to present him there in keeping with their custom. I like the passage and, like too, the entrance of Anna in the story. To me it’s about generations meeting in a place of worship and being at ease with one another. In many ways, it’s a model of and for church. A place of welcome for all ages and a place where all ages mix freely and faithfully with one another. Searched a bit and found this clip. Not sure what it’s like but it taps into this Scriptural moment and that can’t be bad!
Was just taking a look through some old posts a while ago and thought I might give this one a re-run!! Not laziness but I sort of like the message …
Two young people were sitting at the same table as me. They were having a conversation and, though I didn’t set out to eavesdrop, I couldn’t really help but hear them. They were two students in Maynooth college and they were discussing college life. I had a clearer view of the lad as he was sitting across the table from me. I’d describe him as “student” – a sort of laid-back look, cool, longish hair, unshaved, casually dressed (but aware of looking the part nonetheless) and well able to talk. She seemed very nice, pleasant and happy to be chatting with him. They seemed to know each other but, I thought, not too well. Maybe he wanted to get to know her better, I can’t be sure. I’d not blame him if he did! They talked about their courses, the train-fare and how they were choosing to stay at home as it saved them a bit of money but they found the daily commute tiring. They seemed to enjoy their life in Maynooth and, as they talked, my mind wandered back to my own days there and I could identify with their enjoyment.
They talked about socialising and the things they liked to do. It was obvious they mixed study and pleasure with an ease you’d admire. “Where do you go for a drink?” she asked. “I’m a Pioneer”, he replied. I wondered. I felt he’d add, “Ah no, I’m only joking” but he didn’t. He said he saved a lot by not drinking. I knew he was serious. She took it in her stride and said what she liked to drink but there was a real respect there.
I’d not have added “pioneer” to his list of attributes but I was so happy to hear him say it. It seemed so natural and so right. It didn’t interfere with his ability to enjoy her company, to share their experience and to shorten the journey. I thought how lovely it would be to hear more young people say this – without blush or embarrassment. I wondered if he knew that he was giving witness to something very powerful– the ability to stand back from the “done thing” and to realise drink didn’t have to be part of his life.
I chatted to the two of them for a while. I never mentioned drink or abstinence but met them on a journey of memory along corridors of a place that was home to me for six years and has been part of my story for nearly two-thirds of my life! I was glad to meet them and it makes me wonder ….
What about another look at “The Pioneers” – especially for our younger travelling companions?
Good evening! It’s 6.30pm here and in an hour and a half we will have our Christmas Eve Mass in Kilmovee. Just wanted to let you know you will be in my thoughts and prayers at and during that Mass. I hope that you enjoy much peace and goodwill around these days and that, in your gatherings as family and friends, you will fully know the value of both. Many thanks for your kindness to me throughout the past year and for your ongoing friendship. It is not taken for granted.
Earlier we gathered in the church with some of our younger parishioners to place the figures in the Crib. All but one – the one for whom we wait and whose arrival we celebrate throughout the world this night. May His arrival not go unnoticed, especially by those whose hearts have been hardened through violence and misguided actions. May the King of Peace bring lasting peace to what is, sadly, a troubled world.
It’s among my favourite Carols and I came across this version yesterday. Thought I’d share.
LIKING THIS TOO!
On Tuesday December 15th, there were two performances by schools of the parish. The children of St Teresa’s N.S. Kilkelly brought us to St Celsus’ Church and guided all there through a lovely and musical telling of the Christmas Story. A lovely moment, among many, was the journey of the Little Drummer Boy (and so he was) to join Jesus, Mary and Joseph in the borrowed shed. Couldn’t but be proud of them all. A few video clips and images from the gathering and of a beautifully decorated Kilkelly (Crib included). Well done to all involved.
The Church gathering concluded with a candlelight performance. Thought it worth a video recording. Think it was the right call! Enjoy.
There was another performance by the pupils of Tavrane N.S. in Kilmovee Community Centre. A great variety of talent on show and some very amusing moments. Well done to all involved there too. Sadly, phone battery had ran low so no video footage and only one photo! That said, many parents were recording so the fine performances of the evening will long live into the future. Rightly so too! It’s a pity you cannot “hear” this photo. Five musicians all.
Spotted this last night as I pulled in at home. Took three of four shots and within minutes the scene had totally changed. How difficult it can be to capture a moment! Worth the effort though. Take no chances with special moments today …
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