On Friday evening last we were extremely fortunate with the weather which allowed the Mass go ahead at the Mass Rock. It was a very special occasion as all those present were privileged to participate in Mass with Fr. Pat McKeown who is celebrating his 60th year in the priesthood, also remembered during the Mass were deceased members of the Heritage Group and those who attended the Mass Rock over the years including Gerry Callan, Drumgowna; Mary McCabe, Corkashybane and Teresa Lynch, Ardragh. Terence’s continued recovery was included in the intentions of the Mass. It was a beautiful Mass for a beautiful occasion.
Fr. Pat was thanked for his dedication each year for celebrating Mass at the Mass Rock or in St. Michael’s when weather would not permit a visit to the Mass Rock. The annual Mass is always a very special occasion for our community.
All present were particularly delighted to have Terence with us for the Mass after an extremely difficult year for him and we wished him all the best as he continues to recover.
A number of people were thanked for their assistance in preparing for the Mass and those who participated in the Mass – the Deery family; choir members, Gerry, Pat, Lorcan, Patrick, Margaret, Mary, the bakers who baked for our usual cup of tea in the Community Centre after the Mass, the staff in the Community Centre who are always on hand to help out.
After Mass, Gerry McGardle, Chairperson of the Heritage Group made a small presentation to Fr. Pat in recognition of his 60th Anniversary and wished Fr. Pat continued health and happiness in his ministry.
People travelled far and wide to join us at the Mass Rock and we were delighted to have Ann Marie McArdle, our Monaghan Rose, and her family with us on this special occasion, we wish Ann Marie all the best as she travels to Tralee next month. Another special guest was baby Mai all the way from Melbourne, following in the footsteps of her great grandparents Patsy & Josie. There were plenty of new faces and wonderful to see those who turn out each year for this special Mass.
We adjourned to the Centre for refreshments thanks to Pauline, Betty and Lisa who had the tea pots and much more ready. Pauline made a presentation to Fr. Pat on behalf of Corduff Raferagh Community Association in recognition of his 60th anniversary.
All in all it was a great evening for all present, all thankful that the rain stayed away.
