So here we are, or were, back in 2013 at one of our 3 Churches Masses. This was one of the last of several that we celebrated at Corpus Christi High school in July. Each was on a theme, and that year it was "People of Faith", centred on the Sacraments. Look closely and you will see the symbols of the seven sacraments on the wall behind the altar. I was joined by Fr Tomy and Deacon Rob Coyne in the sanctuary. As you can see, helped by the rousing hymn "10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord my Soul)" participation was very active!
Holding these celebrations was part of my plan to bind our 3 Churches together in my first years here. The planning and running of the day, which orignally included a shared lunch and even afternoon activities, was entirely shared among people from the churches. It wasn't without some strife, but on the whole these celebrations were successsful, with everyone getting along great. After some years we transfered the idea and method to Holy Week, notably celebrating some Maundy Thursday evening Massdes tigether followed by Watching until late in the garden at the centre of the school.
I very much enjoyed these Masses, and allowed myself some pride in how we all planned and worked together, and, more important, celebrated together.
It's incredible to think this was 8 years ago! I remember filming it and the amount of energy and joy in the hall! Let's look forward to when occasions like this will once again be possible, thanks for reminding us what a fabulous honour it is to be part of 3 churches! Simon.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you for that. Would like to 'bucket it' & pour it out on us today. Although not at 3churches then, nice to the joyful enthusiasm of people in the Parish & to remember the joyful sharing of the faith at Camarrhen & prayer groups etc in somewhat younger years - BRAVO !!! What happened ???????
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