It was a joyful occasion!
Despite the rainy day the church was packed to capacity to celebrate 25 years since Fr Tony’s ordination. A procession, in which each Parish group presented a symbol of their service, marked the start of the concelebrated mass. As always, the music was beautiful, with all the Parish choirs combining to give thanks for his ministry.
Fr Tony’s homily spoke of the inclusiveness of God’s love and acceptance of all of us, regardless of gender, age, or other differences which often preoccupy us. Read more here.
On behalf of all the parishioners, Kealan O’Reilly, Chairperson of the Pastoral Council, made a presentation to Fr Tony. Barbara Kenny, from the Faith Space group, presented him with a picture of the symbol which he had chosen to represent his 25 years of ministry as a priest.
It was a family occasion. Patricia, Fr Tony’s mother, and other family members attended the celebration and his brother, David and his family in Australia, joined via the Parish webcam.
The Community Centre was decked out in the Dublin colours and custom-made bunting to host the post mass celebrations! And in honour of the occasion Fr Tony cut a personalised cake, made by Patricia Frankland Murphy, which captured aspects of his life and interests. It was an opportunity for the Parish community to have a get-together with a cuppa (or a cone and sweets, if you were of a certain age!)
