Farewell Fr Philip ....

This July we at the parishes of St Mary's and St Patrick's bid farewell to our parish priest Fr Philip as he goes to pastures new and takes up an appointment as parish priest of Celbridge/Straffan.

Fr Philip arrived to serve the parish of St Mary's eleven years ago from Saint Kevin and Killian's parish in Kilnamanagh. Three years ago, he was appointed joint parish priest of both St Mary's and St Patrick's parishes. We in Lucan have been truly blessed over the years by his ministry.

One of the first things many of us noted about Fr Philip were his homilies. Insightful and engaging, they revealed a deep knowledge of the scriptures, an enthusiasm for God's message, good humour and an encouraging word for all. They always left you a little more knowledgeable of the scriptures but also they gave you something to ponder, a challenge to take up. They revealed a man who studied and prayed the scriptures, was very much aware of the complexities of peoples' lives and was deeply committed to sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.

Over the years we have seen how Fr Philip's commitment to the gospel message extends way beyond the words said at the altar. He is a man not just of ideas but of practicalities, aware that parishes are run by real people with real issues: they require finance, upkeep, maintenance and above all faithful, committed people. The beauty of the churches of St Mary's and St Patricks are a testimony to his commitment and work. Fr Philip has quietly and consistently encouraged many people to become involved in their parish. The staff and the teams of volunteers who generously serve are a testimony to his ability to bring out the best in people. We were blessed to have a priest who is both a man of prayer, ideas and also a 'doer'.

In reflecting on the role of the priest, Pope Francis once remarked that the priest - as shepherd - should have 'the smell of the sheep'. By that he meant that just as a shepherd is so much among his sheep that he in a sense 'smells of them', a priest should be among the people, spend time with them, listen to them, be aware of their concerns, mourn and rejoice with them and lead them to pastures of hope. By this measurement, Fr Philip could certainly be described as a pastor among his people. He has guided generations of schoolchildren through the sacraments; presided at occasions joyful and sorrowful; celebrated the seasons of the church year from Christmas, Easter and in the ordinary days; consoled people in their grief and celebrated with them in their joy; prayed, chatted, listened; presided at liturgies for all occasions; led pilgrimages to holy sites where travel, adventure, fun and prayer were shared. Fr Philip is the good shepherd, dependable and there when needed: a shepherd with a keen 'smell of the sheep'. (Though let me add he is always impeccably turned out!)

Fr Philip's concerns extend beyond the boundaries of parish or denomination: A keen ecumenist, he has fostered ties of friendship with the pastors of all Christian denominations in Lucan. Under his stewardship, the Lucan parishes have continued as a beacon of hope and joy in ecumenical relations. Fr Philip your prayerful and good-humoured presence will be missed among our Christian confreres.

Fr Philip is a priest also of considerable technological expertise. If there is a piece of technology out, he probably acquired - and mastered - it last month! He is an IT and tech genius. Our parish websites are relevant, up to date and very user friendly. The cutting-edge sound systems, lighting, electronic doors are examples of technology at the service of God and his people. It is not all tech or serious issues though. He is also a man of good humour who could probably write 'The book of clerical (and non-clerical) jokes' if he put his mind to it. If you have overheard a hearty laugh in the sacristy over the years you can probably blame one of Fr Philip's jokes!

Fr Philip, we are grateful for all you have done for us and we will miss you greatly. You are now enthusiastically embarking on a new mission. Our loss is Celbridge/Straffans's gain. With trust in the providence and guidance of the Holy Spirit we will welcome Fr Bill to be our new parish priest and to begin a new chapter in the lives of our parishes. We trust and pray that the Holy Spirit will guide and accompany you Fr Philip in your new appointment, and that you will be blessed in every way in the years to come.

John Gormley