Marist Staff Reflection Day Glendalough – October 2015
On Saturday morning 10th October, a group of 13 Marists arrived in Glendalough, Co. Wicklow for a day of reflection. Nine teachers from the three Marist schools, Chanel College, Coolock, C.U.S., Leeson St. and St. Mary’s College, Dundalk were welcomed by Kevin Jennings, the director of the MEA, Marist Fathers, Jimmy McElroy S.M., Martin McAnaney S.M. , convenors of the day and Fr. John O’Gara, S.M. Our theme for the day was 'The Road to Emmaus', we listened to the words of the scripture read to us by Fr John, which focused us on our journey for the day ahead .
Then, Kevin, familiar with the paths and terrain of Glendalough, lead us on our way. Just as Emmaus was a unique experience, so too was our walk. Everyone partnered up and listened and shared as we walked on this beautiful morning. Stories shared shortened the journey. We remembered the scripture read to us earlier in the day ‘They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them, but they were kept from recognising him.’ It was a pleasant thought, surrounded by the beauty of creation, in pleasant company.
Then a picnic enjoyed by all was followed by a workshop led by Fr Jimmy on the First Encyclical of Pope Francis ‘The Gospel of Joy’, encouraging all of us to look for joy in life. A natural follow on from this was a specific group exercise to explicitly look for where you might find joy in school life. The exercise was met with much enthusiasm as we created our collages to reveal our school of joy. Happy teachers make happy students we all agreed.
Then across the fields and through wire and hedges, Fr Martin led the liturgy for our open air Mass in the ruins of St Mary’s church. A beautiful experience surrounded by the magnificent scenery of Glendalough and the landmark Round tower. We were all in good spirits during our evening meal as we reflected on the day. On Sunday we all returned to our lives, having found joy in this place, left richer and refreshed after a very pleasant weekend in good company.
Glendalough Group- October 10th 2015
Fr. Martin McAnaney S.M., Fr. Jimmy McElroy S.M., Fr. John O’Gara, S.M,
Kevin Jennings, Director of the M.E.A.
Chanel College – Susan Gorman, Sharon Hogan, Philip Ardiff, Elaine Brazil, Jean Linnane.
C.U.S. – Ruth O’Mahony, Mick McCarthy.
St. Mary’s College – Briege Kelly, Anita Morgan.

Words and Photos courtesy of Anita Morgan