Fr Rory Writes:
Lent returns to us again, and time to say Lent means Spring. This season in the church is so important to all of us. Returning from Ireland after a break of 10 days with my family gives much food for thought and prayer. The shortage of priests and indeed the attendance at Mass is very much the plight of the church in Ireland. A priest friend from the past publicly expressed it “the engine is still running, but the wheels are going nowhere”. For us and our parish it is most important that we become communities of faith. We have lost some great people, and so our response must be to follow their example with more of us working together to build upon the legacy they have left us. We are very blessed by our churches.
Returning to Deacon John’s message during Lent last year is a very good step in the right direction. It is really excellent.
As we listen to the message of Jesus each week may all we do during Lent prepare us to celebrate Easter. May we grow more like him every day, and show everybody that our faith is about good news of joy and light and life. May he strengthen our faith, and help us grow in our love and care for one another. It has been said that the experience, of Peter, James and John in last Sunday’s Gospel helped the apostles to cope with the troubles of life.
How would you feel if you were given a T-shirt with this verse from Isaiah 40 printed on the back?
Those who trust in the Lord will have their strength renewed.
They will mount up with wings as eagles. They will run and not grow weary.”
To be continued next week so that we can seek the fruits of God’s spirit and that they may work within us.
