Dear Parishioners.
I am happy to be here as your new Pastor since the 1st September. To be welcomed warmly by so many people was very much appreciated.
I am native of Kilkenny and have lived in Dublin now for over 38 years. Since my ordination in 1986 the locations of my appointments have been in West and North Dublin. These previous posts were as follows, Chaplain in Crurnlin Hospital and curacies in Rowlagh Clondalkin, Laurel Lodge Castleknock, Portmarnock, St. Anthony's Clontarf and chaplain in the Mater Hospital. As my appointment to Milltown is my first South-side post I am trying to get familiar with the terrain not to mention the traffic.
I had heard on my arrival that Milltown Parish had been in Project mode over the last number of years. I know that I do arrive now when all the hard structural development is complete. In that respect I wish to pay tribute to Mgr. Tom and all concerned for the beautiful re-design of the Church and the state-of-the-art Parish Pastoral Centre. From my previous experience I know that a Parish Pastoral Centre does enhance a Parish and contributes greatly to a sense of belonging for all who live and worship in the parish community.
As the new Administrator (Pastor) it is my desire that the Parish of Milltown continues in the project mode, not in terms of bricks and mortar of course, but in the sense of the continual development of building up of the Christian community. A community where the Christ-like virtues of compassion and care are made real in the everyday lives of our people.
I know I am not on my own in that desire. I am greatly consoled in my short time here to meet many people who share that vision and who are generous in their time to make it a reality. As I make Milltown my home, I look forward to getting to know as many parishioners as possible. As I said in my first homily here, in all my years as a priest my main support has come from the people whom I am called to serve. I am certain that my time among you the good people of Milltown, it will be no different.
Wishing God's blessing on you and your families.
Fr. Gerard Deegan
