In 2006, I was invited to run a Lenten retreat for the Polish communities across Buckinghamshire. From that, my first ever visit to the UK, I remember two things that inspired me for the rest of my life. The first one was a domestic bean-to-cup coffee maker in the parish house where I stayed. It made such a deep impression…
“Everyone knew it was impossible, until a fool who didn’t know came along and did it.” This quote, often attributed to Albert Einstein, highlights the idea that being unaware of limitations (or being “foolish” enough to disregard them) can lead someone to attempt what experts might dismiss. While many might automatically aspire to be “the fool” in this phrase, in…
The weekday Mass gospel readings over the last seven days presented various accounts of Jesus appearing after his resurrection to the members of his community. The common theme was their confusion and disbelief. Having witnessed Jesus’ unbearably cruel torture and death, followed by his burial, his disciples and close followers were lost and fearful, their dreams, hopes and expectations shattered…
On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark.
I have recently officiated at several funeral services in quick succession. The cumulation was so exceptional that a friend of mine made a rather risqué comment: “People are dying to see you.” Usually, funerals are quite sombre events, and understandably so, as the family and friends bid farewell to someone who has been an indispensable part of their lives for…