THIRTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY

Dear Parishioners,

The Gospel today brings to a conclusion the missionary instructions given by Jesus to his disciples. He tells of the sacrifices involved; ‘take up your cross and follow me.” These are priorities to be decided on if we are to be his witnesses. We must be ready to sacrifice the dearest things in our lives. In certain circumstances, we might have to choose between him and our own relatives.

The Gospel and the first reading tell us that the simplest act of kindness will be rewarded – “even a cup of cold water given to another” – is vital to show our hospitality. And then the profound truth: “anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and those who welcome me welcomes the one who sent me.” Yes, as St Paul says: “We are ambassadors for Christ.” In welcoming the one who represents, you are welcoming the sender. In welcoming a prophet; you will have a prophet’s reward. We need to ponder long and hard on these truths.

FAREWELL:

Now comes the difficult part. My emotions are in turmoil at the moment. I want to stay, but in reality, I need to retire. I am not getting any younger! Today is a special day to say farewell. It is a two-way venture; a few people have said they will miss me!! I will miss you all too. After 20 years’ service, we will have come to understand and appreciate each other. A chapter is closing, but a new chapter is opening in the Book of Life!

Over the 20 years I’ve been here at St John Vianney, we’ve had many, many celebrations; Masses, funerals, weddings, baptisms, First Communion, Reconciliations; Confirmations and school events. We’ve had many social events and parties in our parish hall and in your homes; there has been pilgrimages, demonstrations, deanery walks; Justice and Peace Annual Das and many more.

So many memories to treasure. In all of this, I have seen it as a privilege in my priesthood to have been with you over the past 20 years. I am aware of many areas of neglect while I’ve been away on Justice and Peace activities and “he’s off again to Ireland” and “I suppose he’s playing golf!!” I say sorry for any neglect – let’s remember all the good days!!

I thank you again for your support and generosity as we try to build up God’s kingdom here in this parish and beyond.

I feel positive about the new arrangements for the future of this parish community: two able priests, Fr Jerome and Fr Vincent; Sr Anabel and Sr Ann Marie of the Verbum Dei Community and Germaine who will help keep the show on the road!

I thank you for this weekend’s celebration. And just to remind you at my last weekend will be on 15/16th July. I go on holidays to Ireland and return to my new home in Uxbridge.

Thanks again and God bless you all.

Fr Joe