We’ve experienced extraordinary levels of solidarity, care and heroic service throughout the current COVID-19 crisis. This support enables us to face the daily demands of this most challenging time. It’s hard for us to imagine what it would be like to face this crisis without the support of a caring community. We have however, this very week heard of the reality of tens of thousands of women and children who over decades faced the worst crisis of their lives abandoned and harmed in a most horrendous way.
As we try to absorb the truth revealed in the report of the Enquiry into Mother and Baby Homes, our hearts go out to all those who have been so deeply wounded and traumatised. Words cannot express the horror of what they have experienced. At a time of crisis in their lives they did not experience compassion and care. Instead of being lifted up and held in loving support, they were crushed with judgement and cruelty. Thousands of babies died and thousands more were separated from their mothers. This depth of grief and suffering is beyond words.
The invitation of Jesus in the Gospel is to COME AND SEE. Jesus invites us to come and see a way of living and loving that brings life, healing, compassion, and hope. He shows us this way not only in words but most importantly in his life-giving actions. As we follow Jesus we too, like John the Baptist and Andrew can encourage others to share in a journey of faith, hope and love that is rooted in Christ. Our actions will always speak louder than words.
With profound sorrow we acknowledge that so many have been robbed of life and love. As a parish community we commit ourselves to follow the Lord and to act in ways that affirm and nurture the dignity of human life. We come and see the tender love of our God who is like a mother that can never forget her children. We ask our God to help us grow in love, compassion, kindness and mercy. As we follow the Lord’s way of living and loving others will come and see the power of God’s love in action.
Please remember Marie Smith, Mary Ryan and Kay Delaney who died recently. We entrust them to God’s eternal love and pray for their families at this time of sadness and loss.
I will not forget you
I have carved you on the palm of my hand
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