We would like to share with you what has been happening in the House over the winter period. In autumn we had two new lads arrive, one to enter, John, and one for experience, Alessandro. We also had Kevin enter shortly afterwards but he was almost immediately sent to the House in Ireland. In late September Bishop Patrick joined us for Mass with Fr Chris and some of the Friends of the House. It was a great gift to see him and we enjoyed the day he was here.
In November, Fr Andrea arrived for the Nativity Open Day. It was a beautiful weekend shared with our families and friends and members of the Prayer Groups. We had the Nativity Play and, despite the weather and the mud, it went very well and we appreciated our audience with the bad weather. Tomas was transferred to Italy following the Open Day. We were also given the opportunity to give testimonies to various groups who came to the House before Christmas. We were joined by students preparing for Social Work, a group from St. Mary’s Catholic College and, in addition, we visited Cardinal Newman College and Christ the King High School in Preston, and Lancaster University. During this time we also helped to prepare Christmas Boxes for children in need (Operation Christmas Child).
Before Christmas Diego existed the Community and we thanked him for what he did for this House and wishes him well for the future; also Jeroen was transferred to Medjugorje.
We had the gift, right before Christmas, to go and spend the day with the Penellum’s in company with Fr. Philip Conner; we want to thank them for their great welcome and the lovely food. Christmas Day we spent with Fr Chris who prepared a lovely meal and day for us, for which we thank him.
In January Matteo, Andrew, James and Andrea headed to Italy for Mother Elvira’s Birthday. Andrew was transferred at this time and remained in Italy. When the lads returned they brought Marion to the House. He is a German guy and was transferred here from a House in Italy. On Homeless Sunday Jack and James spoke at the parish in Flint where a Cenacolo Prayer Group meets.
The work to build our new kitchen and dining room got under way. The kitchen is now in use and we greatly appreciate all those who made this possible for us.
Matteo and Jack went to Lourdes for the meeting of the ‘old lads.’ They returned with Fr Andrea and Marco who was transferred from Italy. It was a nice visit with Fr Andrea and he returned to Italy with Matteo who was transferred.
Extensive work is beginning to be done preparing the two new poly tunnels to start to grow our own fruit and vegetables. In the work shop the construction of our new wooded beds is underway also with an altar for the barn.
We all would like to extend our gratitude to all those who support and pray for our Community, the Friends of our House are always in our prayers and we hope to see you at Dodding Green.
Thank you! ‘The Lads.’
