From the joy of the May Altars at the Christian Brothers School, to the thrill of nature’s playground in Scotia’s Glen, Fr Paul’s recount of his childhood in Tralee brought a warmth to the Fatima Triduum, matched only by the warmth of his gentle smile throughout his homilies.
And while his sharing of many heartfelt intentions kept the intercession of Our Lady of Fatima at the heart of this Triduum, his colourful journeying, from the earthy depths of San Clemente in Rome to the azure skies of distant Iranian cities, recalled how various tenets of his faith had been more deeply realised.
Fr Paul’s archaeological expertise and witness have been central to his understanding of the continuity of our faith from the earliest days. Among many wonderful examples, he spoke of the contribution of a centuries-old fresco of the Madonna and Child, located in the Lower Basilica of San Clemente, to our understanding of early devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. And he raised the question, ‘What is our contribution today?’
He reminded us that Our Lady of Fatima calls us today to fulfil her requests. His beautiful insights into the conversations between Our Lady of Fatima and Lúcia, Francisco and Jacinta presented an uncomplicated understanding of her Immaculate Heart as the faith and love of Mary, Mother of God. And he spoke of God's unobtrusiveness, and called on us to listen out for Him intently.
Prior Fr David McGovern OP spoke of the depth of Fr Paul’s contribution this week, and its capacity to deepen devotion to Our Lady of Fatima amongst the Holy Cross congregation. Fr David and the Community extend their sincere thanks to Fr Paul and look forward to his return to Holy Cross later in the year.