Dear Parishioners of Ferrybank and Slieverue,

As you are well aware by now Bishop Niall has appointed me as Team Leader of St Patrick’s Parish in Kilkenny. The news of this new appointment has taken a while to sink in but now the time has come for me to depart after less than five years among you.

Change can be difficult, whether it is in our own lives, in our Church or wider community. Yet it also provides an opportunity to draw on the resource that is our faith in Christ to see change as an invitation to growth and a means of embracing new horizons.

I want to thank each and everyone of you for the kindness and support you have shown me during these few short years and more importantly for your faithfulness to the Gospel and your commitment to your faith community.

I have enjoyed working with all who participate in the various ministries of the Church and more widely it has been a great privilege to accompany you the people of the parish at times of joy and sorrow. I have learned so much from so many people and it has been an honour to share the journey.

Finally as I take my leave I give thanks for blessings shared and received together. God blesses you and your families and friends. Trust in him and continue to be open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit as he leads all of you who are the Church in these localities of Ferrybank and Slieverue to new adventures.

Above all please pray for me – as I often said prayers are badly needed – priest does not mean perfect! –  and pray for Fr Roderick who will be your new Parish Priest. I will certainly remember you in my prayers. Thank you.

Go raibh mile maith agaibh

Beannacht Dé oraibh go leir.

Fr Kieran