Posted by On Friday, Oct 20th. at Donamon, concelebrated Mass to mark the Ist anniversary of the late Fr.Brendan took place. A large gathering of neighbours, friends and local clergy, the svd community.
Fr.Brendan had served in Donamon for 22 years and was well known, loved and respected. Former members of the Athleague hurling team of who Fr. Brendan was a player, presented his jersey and hurling stick and a framed picture of the team and a candle were presented.
In his homily, Fr. Michael Reddan SVDrecalled Fr. Brendan as an example of a Divine Word Missionary priest.” He was a man who had the ability to connect and communicate with people of all ages.Brendan shared in the joys and sorrows of peoples lives. For Fr. Brendan God was in the “bits and pieces” of daily living. We read in scripture:
Always be prepared to give an answerto everyone who asks you to give, forthe hope that you have”.
In the words of Pope Francis, Fr. Brendan had the ‘the smell of the sheep’ for he knew why he was ordained, to bring Good News. Indeed his missionary priesthood served out joyfully and with conviction is captured beautifully in the hymn:
“How beautiful are the feet of one who brings good news”.
Fr. Brendan’s heart burned with the joy of encountering Jesus. Is this not the Joy of the Gospel? Amen
(Fr Michael Reddan SVD)
NB. Photo from the local newspaper – “roscommonpeople”.
SVD IBP 