Thursday, August 19, 2010
FAREWELL & THANK YOU
This weekend, my pastoral ministry comes to an end after 5 years in Leigh, and 12 years as a priest. It is with great sadness that I now go on leave from active priestly ministry. I am sorry if anyone feels hurt by my departure and I ask for your prayers and understanding. There are many issues that have contributed to my decision; the most influential and pressing being a private longing in my heart and soul that I have ignored and suppressed to my detriment.
I want to say how honoured I have been to be a fellow disciple with you. You are and always will be deep in my heart and an important part of my faith in God’s love and presence in my life. It has been a privilege and a joy journeying with all of you and serving as one of your shepherds.
Antoine de Saint Exupery, author of The Little Prince, said, “If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the men to gather wood, divide the work and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.”
As a priest, I have striven to encourage people to use their gifts in the service of the Kingdom and tried to present the gospel teachings of Jesus. I’ve done this, not because I live these teachings perfectly myself, but because you - as much as I - need to know who Jesus is and what he requires. My primary goal in my pastorate was to “teach you to yearn for the vast and endless sea” – the sea of mystery is God.
It was a special blessing that I could serve as a priest for the past 12 years. And now I must continue to follow God’s call for my life wherever that may lead - it’s an adventure in faith. I would like to say thank you to all those who have shared their lives and prayers with me during my 5 years in Leigh, and to those who have worked closely with me, both in parish and school life. My thanks to Fathers Steve, Dave and Paul, our Deacons Tony, Dennis, Bill & Bob, to parish staff, volunteers and helpers in Sacred Heart, Twelve Apostles and Our Lady’s; and also to Mrs Ahmed & Mr Farrimond. And my thanks to all who have sent cards and messages of support.
I will miss you all, but would like to repeat after St. Augustine: “Our hearts are restless.” Please remember me and my family in your prayers as I remember you in mine. “Keep your Little Flames burning bright.”
Father John