Clonskeagh Parish RCN:20016166

A Few Words from Fr Joe…………………….

I slowed down for a moment, walking past the parish centre one morning during the week, through a window I got a glimpse of a very happy gathering inside. I could see parents standing around in groups deep in animated conversations. For a moment I wondered what was going on, then I saw seated a table the whole cast, angels, shepherds, the Holy Family and a few Wise men, all tucking into piles of cakes, sweets and crisps. The infants’ nativity play had obviously been an outstanding success, and parents, families, teachers and friends were all basking in the joy of another happy moment, another memory created in the unfolding of life’s journey. Once more the timeless tradition of bringing the story of the birth in Bethlehem, of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, alive in drama, was enacted with serious intent by the little children. I couldn’t help myself, memories of my own first stage appearance, as an angel, came flooding back. The joys of an all-boys school, the parts shared out, and with the help of my sister’s discarded ballet tutu, and foil wrapped wings, I shared in the nativity play ritual. I can’t imagine how many boys and girls in the parish schools will have acted in, or attend one of these nativity plays, but I’m sure they will all have enjoyed the experience. Lots of parents, grandparents, families will have had their moment of pride and joy and teachers too. It could be that for some of these children this will be their only religious experience during the whole Christmas season, and even if that is the case, it is wonderful that the story of God’s extraordinary love for the world has been written on their hearts and is in their minds. Hopefully for many more of them the Christmas family Mass, visits to the crib, singing carols and sharing in the joy of the whole parish will be part of what makes this such a special time of year. Well done to all our little performers.