Fr John Last weekend we welcomed Fr John O’Doherty OMI who surrounded by many friends from Victoria celebrated his 80th Birthday. Fr John spent many years as a missionary in Indonesia and also worked for number of years in Aix en Provence in France, as an animator of retreats for Oblates coming to our Mother House where St Eugene established the first community of missionaries. Presently Fr John ministers at St Pius X Parish in SA. There was no doubt that our quite seminary became very busy with so many people turning up. As I was talking to them and taking photos it occurred to me that Fr John’s birthday party is a good response to those who feel sorry for Catholic priests for not marrying. Fr John isn’t even stationed in Victoria but the number of people at his party was an evidence of his friendships with so many: old and young, born in Australia and newcomers alike. It was such an inspiring day to see Fr John allowing us to have an insight into his life. His big heart that treasures so many people shows us that a priest isn’t deprived of loving and being loved. I will particularly remember the days leading to his birthday when some people were coming to set up the party. Talking to them I could get how much they value having Fr John in their lives and talking to Fr John I could get that that feeling was mutual.
I think that those who still feel sorry for Catholic priests should come to Saturday celebration to see for themselves a happy, loving priest surrounded by many friends he has made over years of his ministry.
I think that those who still feel sorry for Catholic priests should come to Saturday celebration to see for themselves a happy, loving priest surrounded by many friends he has made over years of his ministry.
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