Just Moving On

When a priest dies and I have had the privilege of knowing them, and sharing parts of their ministry, I am reminded of the Ordination Mass, the scripture readings, the ritual, the anointing of hands. I wrote this poem and reflect below upon the end of one journey and its continuing direction heavenwards. What is death but drawing closer to the warmth and light of God’s eternal love. I am reminded to pray for priests in ministry today and remember in prayer too those who have died.

John 15:15-

I shall not call you servants any more,

because a servant does not know his master’s business;

I call you friends, because I have made known to you

everything I have learned from my Father.

You did not choose me, no, I chose you;

and I commissioned you to go out and to bear fruit,

fruit that will last; and then the Father will give you

anything you ask him in my name.

What I command you is to love one another.’

Anointing of Hands

The Lord Jesus Christ,

whom the Father anointed with the Holy Spirit and power,

guard and preserve you

that you may sanctify the Christian people and offer sacrifice to God.

Just Moving On.

“What is death

if not a drawing closer

to the warmth and light of God’s eternal love.”

A lifetime of anointed service, mere grains in the sand.

Passing time stretches out an aged feeble hand.

Packing bags after this sacred journey, that’s living.

A breath of inspiration, a gift found in the giving.

Where are we heading from our days under the sun?

Every ending is not quite arriving, just moving on.

He puts down his breviary, dusts down his ego.

Steps towards the Christ who calls, finally letting go.

Fr Patrick Brennan December 2023 ©