“Leaving the Vineyard”

The three main readings this week all speak about vineyards.  Of course, the vineyard is not used in a literal sense.  It comes to stand for the kingdom of God, the Christian life and the Church.  The vine is a symbol of the Faith growing and spreading around the world.

We could look at the parish as a sort of vineyard that we have tried to cultivate together.  I announced last weekend that after seven years here, I will be leaving the parish to take up another appointment.  I will be moving to Craig Lodge, Family House of Prayer in Dalmally Scotland, where I will serve as Priest/Chaplain to the community and Mission House.  It is where Mary’s Meals is based.

Of course I am very sad to be leaving, but also excited about the new ministry ahead.  What makes things a lot easier for me is the extraordinary provision that is being made for this parish.  It is going to be run by three priests who belong to a religious order, namely the Xaverian Missionaries.  I have met with Fr John, Fr Paddy and Fr Maurice several times as we arrange the handover and in fact they have already helped out in this parish quite a bit in the last year.

So, this is a great time and a great opportunity for the parish, for the vineyard that you are called to cultivate.  The psalmist prays, “Visit this vine and protect it…”  The three priests have great experience of ministering around the world, especially in missionary situations and I am sure that with your cooperation, support and prayer, they are going to bring great blessing to the parish.

I am very grateful for the farewell event that is being planned for Saturday 17 October and will say a proper goodbye then.  But I will get some extended breaks from the ministry in Scotland and really do intend to keep the contact with the parish and come to visit and concelebrate mass from time to time.

Thank you very much indeed for all you have contributed to this vineyard in the last seven years.  God bless, Fr Kevin.