In mid October 2002 Martin Coffey, CP circulated an invitation to former Passionists to attend an afternoon gathering in Mount Argus on Saturday 9th November. This was to be the first organised meeting to facilitate some of our former members who were keen to renew contacts with the community. Many former professed members as well as students were invited and encouraged to contact others who might be interested. The purpose of the meeting was to provide an opportunity for old friends to meet again after a lapse of time. There was no fixed agenda but it would be good to mingle and exchange experiences and explore the possibility of future meetings and collaboration. Those travelling a long distance were offered accommodation. Up to fifty from all parts of Ireland and Scotland, spanning many decades, attended.
The
meeting took place on Saturday November 9th 2002 in Mount Argus. Frank
welcomed everybody. Martin said that he was happy that this meeting was
taking place at last. He believed the province had a lot to learn from
those who had spent time with us and looked forward to hearing the feedback
from the groups. He also invited written comments and suggestions from
those who felt so inclined.
Sean Goan addressed the group and invited them to break into smaller discussion groups to share together about being here and where they hoped this project would go. The short discussion time was spent catching up and talking about old times and the people they knew. Some expressed gratitude for all they had received from the Congregation during their formation with us. There was a strong desire to keep the association going. We should meet at least annually. There may be ways in which the group could contribute to the life of the province but that needed fuller exploration than was possible during this first meeting. Individuals or groups might want to take the initiative in this regard and this is encouraged. There may be former colleagues who are in need of some kind that we could reach out to. Another suggestion was that something in the area of Passionist spirituality might be shared with the group.
It was agreed that a short summary of the meeting would be sent to everyone, including those who were unable to attend. The names and addresses of the participants will also be sent. Everybody will be encouraged to send in their comments and suggestions in the light of the brief discussion. There will be a second meeting sometime during Lent 2003. A copy of the Province Newsletter will be sent to everybody.
Mass was celebrated in the community choir, followed by an evening meal together with the community in the refectory. The chat and craic was good and lasted well into the evening.
An
ad-hoc committee was formed to steer the group forward and to organise
the next event. The members are Frank Kelly, Sean McCaughey, Tony Curran
and Sean Goan. This group will liase with Martin Coffey.
December 2002 - Index
Synod of Congregation in Korea
Meeting Lay Passionist Association
St. Paul of the Cross - Man of Prayer by Fr. Frank Keevins
First meeting of Former Passionists
Senior/Retired Religious Initiative
Obituary:
Bro. Malachy Daly C.P. 1916-2002
Fr. Patrick Wilson C.P. 1907-2002
Fr. Celestine Butterly C.P. 1916-2002