TIME TO THINKWith Fr Paddy Byrne
The past week for me has been spent in the Holy Land, with more than 70 pilgrims from Co Carlow.
It truly was a memorable and deeply enriching experience. Walking the ancient footsteps, not just of Jesus of Nazareth, but also the ancient prophets from the Old Testament. The pilgrimage has given me a sense of renewed hope and energy. The Scriptures that I have read so often were truly felt by the simplicity and profound tangible environment that is truly a holy and sacred land.
By the banks of the Sea of Galilee, a simple dawn liturgy celebrated the possible that accompanies the new light of everyday. A boat trip further out at sea reminded me that our God became one of us, especially to calm and refresh the stormy moments that often happen without warning. As we sang Calm us Lord as you calm the storm, save us Lord, keep us from harm, I sensed great healing and renewal at a personal level.
I was reminded by a humble fisherman who lived and loved on this very sea shore, that all will be well when I place my trust in him.
Visits to Nazereth, Bethlehem and Tiberius reminded me that Christianity is not just a historical story but continues to be relevant and deeply necessary. The theme of light conquering darkness, hope dispelling
the chains of fear and burden are indeed life-giving and transforming. Throughout this pilgrimage, I was reminded that the life and goodness of the Church does not come from an establishment behind the walls of the Vatican but, rather, a living pulse felt in the veins of all who call the name of Jesus.
Community is the heart of Christianity - a community which shares a living body. Inclusion is the signpost to the Christian way of life. I was taken by the dark and dreary caves, where the leapers were cast aside and left on the margins. I marvelled of how bold and active Jesus was in his desire to be inclusive. It was this radical and deliberate desire that led to his ultimate demonstration of love: death on a cross. I imagined the bold mission of his inclusivity to those who have no voice and feel disconnected from friend and family at this time. Jesus was not a populist. If he was, he never would have been crucified.
I was greatly moved in Jerusalem, witnessing the diversity of creed and culture struggling to coexist in a city fractured and torn because of religion itself. In the Garden of Gethsemene and in Calvary, I was taken by the courage and resilience of so many good people I know and deeply respect, who live with great suffering and burden. Yet, they carry their cross with faith and dignity.
In the tomb of Resurrection, a spirit of hope and confidence reminded me that, no matter what, we are not alone. God is very near. Even in the most difficult and horrible situations, with God on our side, we can keep on going. Resurrection tells us that life is much more than just surviving and struggling. Life is a real gift. Do we get busy dying or get busy living?
Pilgrimage is about searching and also discovering something new. I suggest that this discovery is as valid by the banks of the River Barrow, walking through our towns or villages and being a member of our family and local parish. I have no doubt that our story is also holy and sacred. Our lives are fuelled with enormous potential to communicate the love and joy that comes from an awareness that, yes, we are somebody special in the sight of God.
I loved this experience and was blessed and truly inspired by the faith and goodness of my fellow pilgrims in searching and finding something new and beautiful.