Tuesday 29 July 2014

Father James Andrew Berrie, C.P. Rest in Peace

On Monday 28th July, James Andrew Berrie went back to the House of the Father following a struggle with cancer over recent years. In early 60's he was among the younger members of St Patrick's Province of the Passionists. He will be sadly missed in his native Scotland where he served in both Archdioceses of Glasgow and Edinburgh. He is survived by two sisters and their families. His Passionist community at St Mungo's Monastery and Parish will miss him. I have spoken by phone to the Superior of St Mungo's, Fr Dermot Gallagher, C.P. and conveyed to him the sympathy and prayers of St Joseph's, Paris.
The funeral will take place on Tuesday, 5th August in Glasgow. I will attend and join in the Requiem Mass. May he rest in peace. Amen.

Monday 28 July 2014

Middle East Killings

My personal blog about Gaza had a far greater response than I expected. I appreciate the many positive and supportive reactions. Others were upset by the question I raised about a possible response in North Belfast. Remarks directed at me personally could make the messenger rather than the children of Gaza the central point. I am freely editing out the question on a possible response in North Belfast lest what I raised could distract from sincere efforts being made by people in the area. The present 72 hour ceasefire will give some relief . My prayer is that this will extend into a long-term peace. Thanks to all who responded to my personal comments. Aidan Troy


At this time, I offer prayer that the killing in Gaza and Israel stop now. Every killing of a human being is a crime and challenges us all in declaring our refusal to accept the daily slaughter of children.  This is slaughter of innocents. Prayer needs the 'legs' of reflection and the witness to our own commitment to reconciliation where we refuse to accept division and separation as permanent. In trying to achieve reconciliation great patience and couage is needed. With a Christian Minister of another Church I recall during my time in North Belfast meeting with an Israeli and Palestinian delegation who came to look at our peace process. Can help continue to be given?

Offering moral and material support is important. Gestures can be significant in calling people to the ways of peace. Would Woodvale/Ardoyne people of goodwill consider offering a powerful witness to our world at a time when in the Middle East children, women and men are being slaughtered daily?Supposing an agreement could reached to withdraw the objections to the return parade of July 2013 and intensify efforts being made for parading  in 2015? This would speak a message that shows that longstanding divisions of neighbours are capable of improvement when people of goodwill take a risk for peace. It would also show deep care for others who are suffering and dying even as we talk and consider what to do.             A. T.

Tuesday 8 July 2014

Loire Valley

A lovely visit to this beautiful area of France. Celebrated a Baptism today in a lovely village church - such joy and conclusion of ceremony by ringing the church bells to welcome the newly baptised. A T

Friday 4 July 2014

Independence Day 2014

Went to Marymount Sisters Community for Mass this evening. Sad to learn afterwards that France are out of World Cup. Have Mass and Penance Service at l'Arche, Trossly, tomorrow evening. Saw Fr Cormac O'Hora today at Susy en Brie. He is in good form. Have a Baptism on Tuesday near Poitiers. Busy days. Good weather. A T