Thursday 19 January 2012

A Ray of Hope

At a time when a lot of sadness surrounds the Catholic Church, a ray of hope has been to walk each year with people who ask to come into the Catholic Church. In the parish of St Joseph, Paris, where I serve, there are 10 adults this year in the classes for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). Each year since 2008 I have made some great friends among those people who inspire me by their faith and courage at this time of disillusionment with institutions. To each one of you, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. You may never know how much you  have done to help me keep going. A T

Friday 13 January 2012

Happy New Year 2012

Afraid I have neglected the blog for some time - mea culpa! Into my fourth year at St Joseph's, Paris.
How time flies - when you're getting old! Provincial Chapter of the Passionists to be held in Larne, Co. Antrim in mid-May this year. After that, the superiors will either assign me here in Paris for another four years or send me packing elsewhere! Do I have a say in this matter? In theory, yes. In fact, no. In 2008 the superiors listened to me for over an hour and then phoned me on my mobile to ask me to be in Paris by 28th September 2008 - even though this beautiful City and wonderful parish had never been mentioned or suggested. So, as I say - wait and see and watch this space.
Busy year ahead with 25th Anniversary of new building at St Joseph's (original building 1869) taking place in May this year. There is so much for which to thank God and many people in this great and varied community. There will be First Communions and Confirmations in May also. 10 Adults will receive the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil at St Joseph's (7th April 2012). These great people are enrolled in the RCIA (rite of Christian initiation of adults). I look forward to our Thursday night sessions together with real joy. Enough for one post! Talk soon again. A T