Sung Mass at the Dome of Home, followed by a 'Lá Fhéile Pádraig' Lunch at the Hollins Hey Hotel. Thanks to Anne Williams for organising it and also the staff at the hotel for their attentive service and good food.
Celebrating the Apostle of Ireland by this lunch some 24 hours early meant no breach of the penitential nature of the season as Sunday doesn't count in the 40 days of Lent and I suspect St Patrick would be fine with the early marking of his mission in the Emerald Isle.
St Patrick was born in Roman Britain around the end of the 4th century, and died in Ireland about the middle of the 5th century. As a missionary bishop, he endured many hardships and faced opposition even from his friends and fellow Christians.
And the link is in the opposition that St Patrick faced in his work to convert Ireland.
Traditionalism faces opposition from various quarters but we remain resolute and for every story (perhaps sometimes unfounded rumour) of a negative nature, there are encouraging reports that indicate progress. I heard two such reports today.
Firstly, it was encouraging to learn that Canon Amaury Montjean, the Rector at the Shrine Church of Ss Peter, Paul and Philomena (aka The Dome of Home), returned just yesterday from a working trip to Mauritius. Canon explained, that the Mass of Ages had returned to the Indian Ocean Island after an absence of 40 years.
Also, closer to home, it was great to hear that the Rt Rev Mark Davies, the Bishop of Shrewsbury will celebrate Mass in the Extraordinary Form at New Brighton on Sunday 4th May. He will also confirm a number of individuals who are currently undergoing preparation.
So more positivity to be thankful for!
St Patrick pray for us!