Clonskeagh Parish RCN:20016166

The Beauty of Faith Partnership - By Rev. Fr. Dr Peter Ewaoche Johnson
We are still basking in the euphoria of the celebration of Fr. Joe’s ordination Ruby Anniversary! For three consecutive weekends, we lifted the roof in ecstasy in the three churches in our partnership! Never has such happy atmosphere echoing from sincere joyous hearts been experienced in our faith community! Everyone smiled, laughed, shared chats, gifts, meals and drinks and made friends. No wonder the psalmist says,“how wonderful it is for brothers and sisters to dwell together in unity!” (Psalm 33:1) The African proverb, bread eaten alone is not sweet, complements the words of the psalmist.
As a faith community we are a communion sharing one faith, one love, one baptism, worshipping one lord. (Cf Ephesians 4:5) Everyone is a valuable member of that communion of faith, and when we bring our unique gifts together in partnership, it is simply heavenly. This was quite evident in our celebrations in June. It became evident from the preparation stage, when the committee was drawn from the three parishes in the Trinity of Faith Partnership. Everyone brought a unique energy to the room. There were enthusiasm and mutual respect, and the great cross pollinations of ideas and talents left none of the members in doubt that we were heading for a great celebration. Everyone was willing to go the extra mile. The same enthusiasm engulfed the various communities of Kilmacud, Clonskeagh and Mount Merrion. The magnificence of the celebration in each parish community testified to this enthusiasm and showed the unique gift each
community has to offer. Parishioners from the three communities took time to attend and share the moments of joy in their partner churches. This is the new face of the Church, and it reflects the true
Apostolic and universal Faith. Our celebration more than anything else displayed the face and beauty of the synodal church, where all work together to build the kingdom of God on earth. As we unite in spirit, there is joy, harmony and profound strength, and we offer the world a timeless message of peace, connection and community.
May we embrace and sustain the gift of our partnership as we journey together in faith, bringing the uniqueness of individual communities to bear on the partnership so together, we build a strong partnership
community. Thanks everyone for offering the gift of your presence and faith to our Partnership. 

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