Many thanks to Mum and Talitha and Anne for the comments. There seems to be a view page views out there so don't hesitate to comment. It's nice to hear!
Today was our first Retreat Day. Started early with a walk along the waterfront. A fresh but nonetheless an enjoyable beginning to the day.
Another big breakfast (two serves of blood pudding today mate) and then a quick trip up the road to the Edmund Rice Centre.
We celebrated Mass there and then toured the Museum. Afterwards we enjoyed a great afternoon engaging with Rice's work and each other. It was probably the first time (away from the bar) that we all got to stop and take measure of where we were and why we were here. It was a great session and Julie deserves a great deal of praise for the way it was put together.
We then had a few hours of free time. After two failed attempts I finally found the long sort after family information and dutifully spent some Euros to ensure the O'Beirne name once again makes the trip from Ireland to Australia.
A few then headed to the Medieval Museum. Lots of history and even more old stuff that was good to have a look at. The statue below is of St Stephen. The first martyr of the Church and my Confirmation namesake.
Then it was off to Timbertoes for an afternoon of quiet reflection with Mr Bulmers and Master Guinness.
The day though was really about the Retreat. I probably didn't realise the value I placed on my faith until today. Very important in terms of not only my teaching but more so my family. A great opportunity to stop and reflect in a way that wouldn't be possible within the context of home.
There's a message there particularly for my HSC students both this year and next. It is and will be a tough time. Faith and family though will be there to get you through. Don't be afraid to turn to one. Or both.
We're off tomorrow. Wallabies V Fiji in the afternoon. I'm sure there'll be an opportunity for some spirited discussion there too!
Loving the blog Michael, so far you covered half my family in the saints dept, Kevin, Paul, Brigid....keep going!!! Have you met my friends Cathy Deeks and Robyn Loy? Enjoy the rugby in rugby mad Ireland x
ReplyDeleteHi Anne. Really happy to hear that you're enjoying it. I sat with Robyn and Cathy at dinner a few nights back. We made the connection with you. A small world!
DeleteWow you found the crest that's awesome! Keep the posts coming it's a good read.
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