Our new Archbishop began his ministry in Dublin on Tuesday last. We extend the warmest of welcomes and the best of good wishes to Archbishop Dermot Farrell as he begins his ministry of leadership and service in the Dublin Diocese. He can be assured of our prayers and support every day. Archbishop Dermot spoke with humility and hope at a Mass of Thanksgiving in the Pro-Cathedral:
Today, I stand before you more than aware of my own inadequacies. But you and I also stand before God, the giver of gifts, who is our hope and our help. I am happy to embrace this new mission. I come to you with hope in my heart. It is not a naive hope that everything will be better tomorrow, but a hope born of a conviction that transcends these difficult days through which we are living, and a hope that transcends the limits our own capabilities. Faith is not an invitation to put up with life’s difficulties and frustrations. Rather, faith asks us to see these as a time of grace. This time – both in the crisis that is the global pandemic, and in the many crises confronting the Church – this very time, with all its frustration and fear, is rich with possibilities, already carrying the future, overflowing with Christ.
We wish Archbishop Diarmuid Martin every good wish and blessing in his retirement. He has always been very encouraging and supportive of us here in St. Pappin’s Parish. The children in our parish schools have benefitted from numerous initiatives that he generously supported over the years. His visits to us were always marked with words of encouragement and affirmation for the people of Ballymun. He was delighted to be with us for the establishment of our newly amalgamated parish and the blessing of our new Pastoral Centre. May he be blessed with good health, peace and happiness for the years ahead.
Hope you’re holding up ok and taking good care to stay safe and well. We keep hope alive together and remain in a solidarity of prayer and hope. We remember Sandra Maguire, Ann Hall, Ann Basnett, Michael O’ Donnell, Scott McKenzie and Josh Dunne whose funerals took place this week. May they rest forever in the peace of God’s eternal love. Please pray for those who are grieving so deeply for them.
Our help is in the name of the Lord