Clonskeagh Parish RCN:20016166

A Few Words from Fr Joe……………

Did you ever run a marathon? I’m full of admiration for all those men and women who have been training for months, building up strength in the legs and lungs getting ready for the start line at Dublin marathon 2026. I’m not sure which sounds worse, 26.2 miles or 42.65Kms, but either way it’s long, hard slog. The race attracts top athletes from all over the world who come to Dublin in search of a prize, a record time, a podium finish. Behind them come all the club runners for whom running is their sport, a talent they have honed over the years, proudly sporting their club singlets, worn running shoes, athletic kit and the face of determination and resilience. Then bringing up the rear guard are all the people running for charity, raising funds for so many causes big and small, some in hilarious costumes, great smiles on their faces and a huge sense of achievement with every kilometre completed, maybe even amazement for those who finish. It’s just a fantastic event, generating huge goodwill and supported by tens of thousands of spectators. Runners say they get a great buzz hearing their names being shouted out by family and friends, encouraging, cajoling, motivating them to carry on. Personally, I have never even contemplated participating in a marathon, we are not all designed for running! But I have often felt the marathon is like a parable, to which much of the wisdom of our faith tradition can be applied. The application of mind and body, the fidelity to the task in hand, the perseverance, the trust that your people are carrying you along, the sense of community and shared pain, and the ultimate victory of completing the course. Best of luck to all the runners, have a great day!

Click below to see a copy of this week's newsletter.