1^st February, 2012

Dear Confreres and friends,

 

January has been a very busy month with the Province Visitation and the Province Meeting. Frs. Gerry, Maurice and I are really grateful for the warm welcome we received when we visited and also for the openness of the confreres in the communities. It was also good to be able to talk with some of our co-workers and to meet our Redemptoristine Sisters. Although the ageing process is real, there remains an enthusiasm and an apostolic zeal in the Province that we found most touching.

 

It was also great being able to see so many gathered at Hawkstone recently for the Province Meeting. I again thank the Apostolic Life Secretariate for arranging the meeting which provided excellent input and a wonderful experience of fraternity. Congratulations to all our Jubilarians, and many thanks to those who spoke so well about them on the special evening dedicated to them. I was happy that I was able to give an update on the situation in each of the Houses and for us to hear the progress made by the group working on the Statutes.

 

The General Visitation of the Region of Zimbabwe ends today and I have heard from Fr. Guri that it has been a positive experience for all. I will go to South Africa to meet with Fr. Tryvis and the Novices next week, followed by a visit to Zimbabwe where I will attend the AGM of Holy Trinity Theology College. It will also be good to meet with the confreres and the new postulants there.

 

Tomorrow we celebrate the feast of the Presentation of the Lord and also the special day set to focus on those living the Consecrated Life. The Holy Father has invited us to reflect on the quality of our presence to the world, but also to one another. We continue to pray for those in formation, and for new members for our Province and Region.

 

Fr. Michael McGreevy has received an encouraging report on his health but continues to be grateful for your prayers. Please continue to remember all the sick and elderly.

 

Birthdays this month: Fr. Philip Jones on 4^th, Fr. Desmond Keegan on 14^th and Fr. Michael Henesy on 24^th.

 

Apologies for the brevity of this letter; life continues to be very busy.

 

In Christ the Redeemer,

Ronald J. McAinsh, C.Ss.R

Provincial Superior