If we could say that St Patrick evangelized Ireland in the 5th century, I don't think it is any exageration to say that Irish missionaries have brought that faith to almost every country in the world. Here in Aotearoa, I was baptized by an Irish priest and until I was 13, I only knew Irish priests. I was invited to go to the diocesan seminary by Fr James O'Connor, our Irish Parish priest. When I decided to become an overseas missionary the only way open to me was to join the Irish missionary society of St Columban. Alhough we are only one of many Irish missionary groups, Columbans have shown that St Patrick has long arms as the faith inspired by him has reached many communities throughout Asia, Oceania and South America. In April, the next Columban to be ordained will be Iowane Naio from Fiji and other seminarians in formation are from the Philippines, Korea, Myanmar and Fiji and Kiribati. Truly we can say from Ireland to the world. An Irish friend in Peru just sent me this prayer attributed to St Patrick.
'' Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me. Christ within me, Christ at my right hand, Christ at my left hand. Christ wherever I go, Christ as my friend now and forever.''
May St Patrick help us to continue his mission in our corner of the world.
Amen.
Don Hornsey
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