On behalf of Fr Brendan and Fr Eugene I wish you all a very happy Christmas, blessed with joy as we remember the birth of our Redeemer. When Fr Dan came back for his Retirement presentation his pride in all that has been achieved in this parish was tangible. Our new pastoral centre and the present church are lasting monuments in stone to what he has achieved. However, they are only buildings. The true legacy of his Church building must surely lie in working with yourselves to build up an active Living Church. That is clearly evident in the unusually high number of people who so faithfully participate in activities throughout our parish – in groups too numerous to mention – (and for fear of leaving anyone out!). They participate in singing, serving, cleaning, reading, bringing the Blessed Sacrament to the sick, in the Sacristy, the choirs, our Schools, children’s liturgy for small children and a dedicated service for those with disabilities, in support of parents whose children do not attend Catholic schools, counters, flower arrangers, Finance Committee, St Vincent dePaul, Third World group, Bereavement team, Child Protection, various prayer groups, - you get the picture! It is a daunting privilege to step into the footsteps of such dedicated teamwork and I pray that God will help – People and Priests to continue to work together to make our people a confident and welcoming community. Amidst the celebrations of this time we hold very dear in our hearts all those people for whom this must be a difficult time because of bereavement, illness, difficulties in relationships, for those who are experiencing economic hardship, for young people facing important exams in the New Year. In our Christmas Masses we will be praying for you all. We ask that you support us also with your own prayers that we may worthily serve you,
Fr John Forsythe.
Greater Glengormley Churches Community Forum. Saint Mary’s on the Hill Parish actively supports the Greater Glengormley Churches Forum. The purpose of the Forum is to build bridges for a more inclusive, cohesive and peaceful community in the Greater Glengormley area. Click here for further information.