Africa,

St Patrick's Missions 

July/August 2020 Vol. 85 No. 6

In this issue, Monica Corish captures well the emotional roller coaster ride we’ve all been on while living with the threat of the coronavirus – that unsettling mix of frustration and fear, captivity and freedom, despair and hope. It’s a beautifully written piece. Be sure to check it out.

We also wanted this edition to reflect something bright and optimistic. We’re all feeling the need of a glimpse of Easter light. And what better way than with a Golden Jubilee celebration! It’s been 50 years since priests of St Patrick’s Missionary Society first went to minister on the island of Grenada at the invitation of the then Bishop of St George’s, Patrick Webster. Down through the years, their contribution to that island nation and the dedication and service of the many priests and lay personnel who worked with them, have been immense. Our thanks to Fr Oliver Leavy for his detailed and engaging account.

Fr PJ McCamphill never fails to lift our spirits – and gently challenge – and he does so again in this issue with his story of The Iron Snake. Fr Frankie McAuliffe offers a timely reminder of the need for patience and acceptance of ourselves and others. In From the Archives, Fr Tom Kiggins RIP looks at the Shroud of Turin which was put on public display in August some 42 years ago. It was on public display again – this time live-streamed – on Holy Thursday to bring comfort, consolation and hope to Christians around the world who had to make do with virtual Easter services. And Fr Tom McDonnell celebrates the saints we meet every day – though we may not realise it at the time. 

We are all longing for the day when it will be safe to throw open our doors and receive our families and friends again. When that day arrives, I hope that this issue of Africa will contribute to the joy of your “new normal”. Meanwhile we pray that God will continue to bless us all and keep us safe. We hope you enjoy our July/August issue.