Bishop Fintan Gavin blessed candlesOn Sunday 2 February the Diocese of Cork and Ross marked a special occasion as religious women and men joined Bishop Fintan at the Cathedral of St. Mary and St. Anne to celebrate the Diocesan Jubilee of Consecrated Life
Members of religious communities, along with people from across the Diocese, also participated in the event virtually through the Cathedral’s livestream.
The jubilee year focuses on the theme of hope, a message central to the celebration. It was celebrated on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord – the day when candles are blessed at Mass.
In his homily, Bishop Fintan reflected on the various forms of darkness that individuals may face in life - loneliness, grief, isolation, and a sense of loss of direction or meaning.
He urged those present to embrace the light of God, stating, “This feast invites us to continue to open our minds, our spirits, our hearts to the light who is God, and challenges us to bring that light and that hope to those we encounter in our lives.”
Bishop Fintan expressed deep gratitude to religious women and men, acknowledging the profound impact of their witness and service to the Church.
Presentation of symbols at the Mass
Bishop Fintan Gavin blessed candles.
Sr. Celestine Vincent FMM proclaimed the First Reading.
Sr. Bride Given PBVM proclaimed the Second Reading.
Fr Colm Mannion OP proclaimed the Gospel.
Sr. Caroline Nakalili MMM leads the Prayer of the Faithful.
The Cathedral Choir, directed by John Casey.
Br. Denis Ahern, OFM shared the story of his vocation to the Franciscan life.
with Bishop Fintan Gavin are, Br. Denis, Br. Ian, Br. Antony, Sr. Celestine, Sr Nancy, Sr. Christina, Sr. Juliet, Sr. Caroline, St. Agatha and Br. Simon.
Pic: Brian Lougheed
with Bishop Fintan are pupils from Gaelcolaiste Mhuire AG, from left: Robyn Twohig, Conor Daly, Maja Snaider, Liam Creech-O'Donnell, Summer Galvin and Jim Geaney (teacher).
Bernadette Keohane and Br. Antony Sahayampillai.
