Retreat and Cemetery Day in Castletown

Castletown was the location for a three-day retreat in July which proved to be a very uplifting experience, and was followed by Cemetery Day on July 9th, with Br. Kevin McEvoy reflecting on the success of both events. 

We were delighted to welcome 18 Brothers to our three-day Retreat in Castletown from July 6th to 8th which was beautifully facilitated by Hilary Musgrave.

Our Brothers gathered on the eve of the Retreat and there was an air of excitement around the place as news and stories were exchanged; it was the first time in two years for some of our men to meet face to face.

Hilary brought a great sense of calm and peace to the group with her presence and presentations which we were able to relay to our Brothers in Miguel House. Initially, it was hoped that perhaps we could hold the presentations in Miguel House but because of the prevalence of Covid in the country it was decided to exercise caution and to hold the gatherings in the Pastoral Centre.

Each presentation helped the participants to engage with their inner space and calmness. Throughout the three days, there was particular emphasis on our inter-connectedness with each other, our universal solidarity with each other and especially our place within our environment and our universal home in general.

Castletown offered a beautiful setting for the Retreat and the weather was superb. The Brothers were effusive with their praise for all that was offered with particular gratitude to Linda and her team for the outstanding care, service and nourishment provided. The Brothers were particularly grateful to Fr Joe Walsh OFM, our Miguel House chaplain, for his creative liturgies and masterful contributions.

It was lovely to see our Brothers remain on for our Cemetery Day on Saturday, 11 July; it was also very heartening to see the number of people who turned up for the Mass in the parish church where Fr Joe Walsh, was the main celebrant, assisted by Fr Kelly and Fr Andrew Kavanagh. This was followed by the blessing of the graves and opportunity for people to chat and share stories while enjoying the excellent refreshments on offer prepared restaurant owner, Eddie Phelan from Mountrath.

The Blessing of the graves in Castletown