60 Years a Columban - Fr Donald Hornsey

Fr Don at his anniversary mass [left] and cutting the anniversary cake. Photo: Fr Don Hornsey

In July, I had two celebrations to mark the 60 years since my ordination. The first was with my two sisters, family members and friends. Members of the South American, Myanmar and Zimbabwe communities participated singing their lively songs. It was a joyous occasion. 

The second celebration was with other priest jubilarians and many priests of the diocese. So how did I feel to realise that I have been a priest for 60 years? I could sum it up in one word, gratitude.

First of all, I thank God for calling me into His life, then to be a Columban missionary priest. Next, I realise what a tremendous debt I have to my mother. When my father died of cancer in 1942, she was left a widow with three preschool children. She did not complain or fall into self-pity but simply accepted that it was her job to bring us up. On the small widow's pension, she made sure we always had healthy food.

But what I most learnt from my mother was that problems are to be faced with confidence and I can see now how that was a characteristic that has marked my life and the life of my sisters who are now also widows living alone and managing their lives.

Then I am so grateful for the 40 years that I have lived in the South American countries of Chile, Brazil and Peru. Here in Aotearoa, I am still in contact with Spanish-speaking people as well as other communities. A special Spanish word is cariño which means affection and the showing of it through hugs. South Americans are very demonstrative and always make you feel welcome. 

Fr Don Hornsey in Chile. Photo: St Columbans Mission Society.

So, thank you, Lord, for those 60 years and the continual support of the Columbans.

Fr Don Hornsey lives and works in Aotearoa/New Zealand