Since
our last communication, our Pastoral Council has undergone a weekend of
planning. It was facilitated by Fr Niall Leahy, SJ, from Dublin. Most
considered it an invaluable exercise and a great help in clarifying and
identifying at least twenty-four objectives for the coming year. These
engendered a lot of enthusiasm and cover a wide range of pastoral concerns.
We are fortunate to have a good number of gifted and committed people
as members of the council and allied committees.
Tom is as busy as ever and has recently added another task to his tight schedule of work. He is now a member of the North European Formation Commission. That, as well as the innumerable meetings and discussions he has to attend, is a lot on his shoulders. But he seems to carry it off well. One of his other "hats" is as the Leader of the RCIA. This year's programme has attracted what must be the biggest number of catechumens for some time.
In November there was a rather successful weekend for men in Eperon, a retreat house outside Paris. This - as well as the regular meetings for men - seems to answer a genuine need in our men for a spirituality that speaks to them with relevance.
Also, in November, we hosted the second Inter Faith session in the Church. A Rabbi represented Judaism. Islam had its spokesperson and Christianity was represented by a Protestant Minister. Each spoke for about thirty minutes on aspects of how they saw their specific contribution to the world. It was followed by an opportunity for questions and a light buffet. We also hosted the English-speaking clergy Fraternal in our Church. This ecumenical gathering occurs about four times a year. Apart from other items on its agenda, they are planning another common day of retreat after the success of the last one at Montmartre Benedictine Convent.
Michael represented the parish at the annual Armistice celebration in Notre Dame Cathedral on Remembrance Day. People keep marvelling that Anthony is the age he is. He is so busy and, as ever, popular with marriage courses, Lectors and Eucharistic Ministers.
At
the end of the year the brothers of Taize are conducting a huge religious
feast in Paris for those interested in their way of prayer and life. People
all over the city will host the influx of "pilgrims". Towards
the end of January, we will welcome Pat Duffy. He will be conducting a
weekend for the parish on the journey of focussing in spirituality.
Meantime, "Meilleurs Voeux" from Paris for Christmas and New Year.
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