Synod of Bishops October 2014

The Synod looks like it is coming to life although it is still early days. A lot of reading to be done and even more praying.       A.T.

Papal Visit to France 2015

Good news announced today is that Pope Francis will visit France at some stage during 2015. On 25th November 2014, the Pope will visit the European Parliament sitting in Strasbourg. The Pope's visit to France in 2015 (dates not yet announced) will involve a visit to Lourdes and to Paris. This reminds us of 1979 when Pope John Paul II (now canonised) visited Ireland. I was over eight years ordained a priest and recall vividly going to Phoenix Park, Galway and Maynooth College. Little did many of us know what lay around the corner for the church in Ireland following the visit. It will be a different setting when Pope Francis comes to France and one that I am looking forward to greatly.     A.T.

Geneva Visit Ending

Had a recollection day for parish of St John XX111 at the Diocesan Retreat Centre in Geneva.
Lovely group of parishioners including the Pastoral Council and the Parish Administrative Council.
Now ready for last train back to Paris for Mass on Sunday at St Joseph's.          A.T.

Geneva Retreats

Arrived in Geneva last night by train from Paris. How I love trains! Maybe it has to do with my Father working on the railway all his life. Today I was at a beautiful conference centre outside Geneva to accompany the clergy and parish staff of the English language church of Geneva. It was a joy to listen and share with this dedicated and talented group. After the sessions, I saw UN buildings, Headquarters of World Council of Churches, WHO, EUFA & FIFA headquarters, Notre Dame Cathedral in Geneva, Lake Geneva and a few other places. Soon I will offer the Evening Mass.
Saturday there will be a day of recollection for parishioners at Cenacle Retreat Centre. Then, I hope to travel on a late train back to Paris in time for Sunday Masses. This invitation arose from meeting Fr Richard, Pastor, at European Pastors' Meetings in recent years.          A.T

Sad Loss of two great Mercy Sisters

It was with shock and great sadness that I heard of the deaths of Sr Frances and St Marie in a traffic accident near Newry on Tuesday morning. May they both rest in peace and may their families and friends draw strength from the power of these women of faith and goodness. My life at Holy Cross would have so much the poorer without the Mercy Sisters in our parish; On an almost daily basis, I met with Sr Frances - when Principal of Mercy Primary or after that in the huge amount of pastoral care that she offered. These great Mercy Sisters have taught us what Consecrated Life can give to the world and the church. They will be missed and may they rest in peace now.      A.T.

28th September 2014

Last Sunday was special to me on a personal as well as a parish level. On 28th September 2008 (6 years ago), at 4 p.m. I arrived through the front door of St Joseph's Church to begin a journey with no idea whatsoever as to where it would lead. People of all races and languages over the past six years have shown me the way forward and have cared for me. Thanks to all who have walked me over the past six years and to those still on the journey. Without these people, what happened for good would simply not have happened as it did. If any of these read this post - don't lose heart! There is only about 20 months to go before the next change for me will come from Passionist H/Q in Ireland. People who know this ask where is next for me to go - only God knows! After 50 years of Passionist Profession (27 Sept. 1964), every day is a gift to be treasured!                                                             

St Joseph's Information Day and Food Fest on 28 September 2014

Last Sunday was special. It was a brilliant sunny day and the people of St Joseph's gave us a day to remember. All the planning, all the work, all the preparations were worth it. The Parish Pastoral Council gave a lead and individuals, families and leaders of ministries at St Joseph's walked to the same drum beat. What the Body of Christ can be was seen by our own eyes as we had our usual 5 Masses and a call to mission went out to appoximately 1,500 people at those Masses.

 

Like the Gospel when Jesus got people together, He instructed his followers not to send them away but, "you feed them". And all were fed. Without counting the cost, people brought food, cooked it and served it with graciousness worthy of a Christian community. People ate foods of many nations and cultures and we rejoiced in our diversity.

At the same time over 200 children and young people were applying themselves to CCD (religious formation and instruction) under the guidance of volunteer teachers and supportive families. We were glad to welcome ACWO (American Catholic Women's Organisation) and Marymount International School Paris, as friends and fellow travellers along the way in building the Kingdom of God.

At St Joseph's we are a truly international community at peace at a time when many nations and groups are at war. May we continue to witness to peace and justice and all that makes this world truly reflect the beauty and goodness intended by God at the dawn of creation.

 

This day will remain with me for a long time to come - I saw the Body of Christ at its best. It made a welcome change from that same Body being debased by crime and sin against the most vulnerable. My sincere thanks to the huge number of people who last Sunday gave my faith and trust a huge boost. You are witnesses to Chist in all that is best among human beings.

 

On 24th November 2013, Pope Francis signed off on "Evangelii Gaudium" in Rome.

On 28th September 2014, we experienced "The Joy of the Gospel" in Paris.                   A.T.