The Annual Remembrance Mass for deceased Old Clongownians, members of staff and Jesuits of Clongowes took place on Sunday, November 15th in the Sports Hall. The Mass was streamed live online to families past and present, and friends of the College. A candle was brought to the altar to record the passing of each of the Old Clongownians, Jesuits and members of staff who have been called home to God. Fr Michael Sheil SJ, celebrant, reminded us to give thanks for the gift of the lives of the deceased and for all they came to mean to us in so many different ways.
Below you can view Sunday’s Mass.
After the service, Fr Michael received a beautifully written poem, composed by Finbar Lennon, father of OCs David, Peter and Stephen. Finbar had written the poem in its after the Mass and we feel privileged to share it with you all.
Auf Wiedersehen:
Forty souls away, silent pause,
Bow in reverence to our Redeemer.
Footsteps on the varnished floor,
A different timbre for each decade.
The holy Mass is sacred and safe,
Its remote delivery exceeding expectations.
White Cross in place, white bird in flight,
The swinging thurible in motion,
So all the senses are engaged.
It’s a special day to remember
Seamus, Roger, Eamonn, John
And many more, to reassure them
The wide spaces between us
Are not because we are fewer in number.
The masks we wear, only a symbol
Of our vulnerable station now
And not a sign of distance;
Hold my hand and hold me close.
Glorious constancy,
The Celebrant as young as ever
And as old as ever.
The College renewed and vibrant,
With new voices and futures,
Bright colours on the panelled walls
Reflecting clouds and trees,
The rainbow still above the cricket pitch
Isaiah 43.5 alive and true.
May all the souls rest in peace
Sang Gavan Ring from Schubert.
We would like to thank you all who could attend online and all those who have contacted us in the lead up to the Mass. We pray that next year we will all be able to remember our loved ones in person, together.
Here is a list of the deceased. If you know of any other deceased Past Pupils whose names are not listed here please inform Fr. Rector (msheil@clongowes.net).
