I do not know the
composition by denomination of the large group who met at Rearsby convent on
22/09/12. Suffice it that it didn’t seem to matter very much. This Anglican
went with an R.C friend and I think that was the spirit of the day. The sun
shone on the Convent, lighting up the beautiful grounds and indoors Fr. John
Daley shed light in to some dark places.
He began with a tease which he did
with such effect that for a moment I looked at the exit door! He suggested that
whatever our background we would at the end of the day have become totally
reconciled to the Roman Catholic views on some very important issues and that
finally he would celebrate the Eucharist for all of us, oh and we would also
each get a Rosary blessed by the Pope!...
Of course it was a huge spoof but
also perhaps prepared us for a mental shake up and the need to keep alert to
all the strands which were threaded through this day of prayer and study. He
taught us with formidable theological knowledge. He explored some of the
unhappy history of relationships between the R.C. church and other
denominations and also dispelled some beliefs which have tormented Catholics
over the years. These of course were very real and yet sound strange to
Protestant ears. Fr. John used many illustrations from his home life before he
became a priest and from his long ministry.
The last hour of music and
reflection was a moving and peaceful end to the day. As ever we had a wonderful
welcome from the Sisters of St Joseph of Peace. (No habits and a very great
involvement in issues of peace justice and fairtrade which you would hope to
find in all our churches.) In conclusion, there seemed to be agreement that it
had been a good day that people would be happy to repeat especially to hear
more from Fr. John.
Hilary
Janes
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