Longford parishioners thank Fr Pat Lennon for his dedicated service and for being a guiding light

The parishioners of Dromard thanked Fr Pat Lennon for his dedicated service as he celebrated his retirement Mass on Sunday in St Mary’s Church Legga. 

Fr PJ Hughes will be taking over as the new parish priest, having previously served in Mullahoran. 

Francis Gray, on behalf of the Dromard Parish Pastoral Council and the wider community, led the tribute to Fr Pat.  “We gather to celebrate and honour your incredible journey and profound impact on us as our much appreciated priest, as you embark on your well-deserved retirement.”

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Fr Pat’s priestly ministry spanned more than half a century covering three provinces and two continents. “You began in 1978 in the Parish of Kiltoghert and from there you headed on the Diocesan Mission to Zambia for 7 years. Following this you spent12 years in Athlone, followed by some time in Ballinahown. I compare you to St  Patrick, as in 1998 you headed back to Africa, this time to Zimbabwe for further 7 years. Upon returning you took up the position as Parish Priest in Ardagh and you made Dromard your home for the past six years.”

PICTURES: Longford parishioners thank Fr Pat Lennon for his dedicated service

Mr Gray said it was with deep gratitude and admiration that the people of Dromard reflect on Fr Pat’s years of dedicated service. 

“Since arriving to our parish in Autumn 2018, you brought with you a spirit of kindness, compassion and unwavering faith, while still maintaining the spirit of a loyal Fr Manning Gaels man. You have been a guiding light, not only in our spiritual lives but also in fostering a sense of community and belonging. Your homilies and post communion reflections have inspired us, your counsel and words have comforted us and your leadership has strengthened us. 

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“The Parish of Dromard has been an integral part of your journey both at the start and end of your priestly ministry. You have often said that you returned to your roots here. Your keen interest in your Alma Mater the Latin School and its people was notably marked in the opening of the interpretative centre this year. Over the past 6 years, you have been with us through life's most significant moments – baptisms, weddings, funerals and countless celebrations and sorrows. You have shared in our joys and provided solace, support and comfort in our grief. Your ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds has made you a beloved figure in our community.” 

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Mr Gray said Fr Pat’s dedication to parish life and unwavering commitment ‘have been truly inspirational’. “Whether it was through your pastoral care, First Friday visits, broadcasting Mass from your house during Covid pandemic, you have exemplified what it means to be a servant of God. You worked on both primary and secondary school boards of management. You always complimented and wished the GAA well. You encouraged participation and involvement in various church ministries. You shared your gardening skills and produce generously with your parishioners.” 

Mr Gray wished Fr Pat  joy and fulfillment in his retirement. “In the words of Matthew’s Gospel, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Fr Pat, you have been a good and faithful servant to our parish and we are forever grateful for your presence in our lives. May God bless you abundantly in your retirement. We thank you for everything.”

On behalf of the Pastoral Council and Finance Committee and the people of Dromard Parish. Mr Gray presented Fr Pat with a golf club membership voucher. 

MAIN PHOTO CAPTION: Fr Pat Lennon pictured with the Dromard Parish Pastoral Council after his retirement Mass in St Mary's Church, Legga - Tom Conefrey, Martha Gray, Jacinta Brady, Thomas Reilly, Francis Gray, Bríd Mimnagh, Sile Duffy, Margaret McEntire, Brenda Smyth, Peter Masterson, Fr Pat, Anne Matthews and Chris Donohoe PICTURES: DECLAN GILMORE

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