The Rector Writes
Dear Friends,
The recent comments on interfaith dialogue by the Dean of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Very Rev. Robert McCarthy are most unfortunate. Describing Islam and Hinduism as “cults” is not only extremely offensive to members of those religions, but also inaccurate. There is a great deal of difference between a mainstream religion and a sect or cult, and to confuse the two does a great disservice to those working in the areas of both interfaith sharing, and those working to help those who have been caught up in the activities of cults in the true sense.
The Church of Ireland recently brought out a booklet giving guidelines on interfaith dialogue and listening, and it sets out very clearly how to treat other faiths with the respect they deserve. Available from the Sunday School Society bookshop, (or you can borrow my copy) it is an excellent publication. Here in this parish we have been very much at the forefront of dialogue, with the excellent Interfaith Roundtable discussion programmes, events and conferences. Their next conference takes place in the Castleknock Hotel on June 5th and all will be welcome to attend.
Vocation
On May 18th we look forward to hearing Robert Lawson preach to us as he prepares for his ordination as a deacon on June 8th. His ordination will be a time of great fulfilment and joy not just for him but for the whole parish. We pray for him and his family and the Celbridge Group of Parishes where he will serve. Robert’s commitment to the ordained ministry reminds us that we are all called to serve God in our own place: but it also encourages us to think about whether we too might have calling to the ordained ministry or as a lay reader. If you feel that might be God’s calling to you please speak to me or Elaine at any time. As you’ll see later in this issue, lunch is open to all in the Parish Centre at 12.30pm.
Confirmation
Our confirmation candidates will be confirmed on May 25th. Please keep them in your prayers at this important time in their lives, as they become adult members of the church.
Thank you
Thanks to everyone who made Holy Week and Easter so special in the parish. Our talented team of musicians, led by Maedhbh, the flower arrangers, Pat and Dorothy and their teams, all the readers and intercessors and to all of you who came each night.
Yours in his service
Andrew
