Farewell to Our Clergy: A Heartfelt Goodbye

It is with a mixture of sadness and profound gratitude that we gather today to bid farewell to our beloved priests, Maurice and Jorge. For seven years, Maurice has been a guiding light within our community, and for three years, Jorge has shared his spiritual wisdom. Their departures mark the end of a significant chapter, one that has been deeply enriched by their presence, their teachings, and their unwavering dedication to our parish.

Reflecting on Maurice's Ministry

When a priest departs, it is traditional to reflect upon their time with us, to highlight the defining aspects of their pastoral journey. Today, we honour Maurice, a priest who has left an indelible mark on each of us.

"Is there a priest in this church?" a parishioner once inquired. Maurice, with his characteristic wit and wisdom, responded, "Have you given a son to the Church? If every family here had given a priest, there would be one under every steeple!" This anecdote perfectly encapsulates Maurice's passion for vocations and his desire to see the Church flourish.

Another memorable refrain from Maurice was, "You need to get used to managing without a priest. Start the service without me!" This was not a sign of detachment, but rather a gentle nudge towards greater lay involvement and empowerment within the community. He encouraged us to be self-sufficient and to take ownership of our faith journey.

His guidance on liturgical matters was always practical and insightful. "Take simple songs that everyone knows," he would advise, ensuring that our worship was accessible and inclusive. When reviewing the readings, he’d offer constructive criticism: "You're missing the point, focus on the essential of the Gospel." Maurice consistently guided us back to the core message of our faith, reminding us of the paramount importance of the Gospel.

Maurice's belief in the power of community was a cornerstone of his ministry. He often stated, and we fondly recall, "A Christian alone is a lost Christian. A Christian with others is saved." This mantra underscored his commitment to fostering strong bonds within our parish, ensuring no one felt isolated in their faith.

While some might playfully remark, "Maurice is always there, especially for the ladies," his presence was a source of comfort and support for all. He had a unique ability to sense when correction or guidance was needed, gently steering us back onto the right path. We are eternally grateful for his steadfast presence and his dedication to ensuring we remained aligned with our spiritual values.

Certain words and phrases became synonymous with Maurice's time here, appearing perhaps unexpectedly but always with purpose: "Curiously," he might begin a thought, or with regard to the collection, "Have you made the collection? We must make the collection." His emphasis on the "importance of work in the parish sector" highlighted his strategic approach to parish life and his commitment to organized ministry.

It's worth noting that Maurice, like any priest, is also a man with his own humours, both good and perhaps less so. These moments, though sometimes punctuated by colourful language, served only to remind us of his humanity and approachability, making him all the more relatable.

Maurice's Impact on the Community

Maurice truly opened our eyes to the importance of outreach and inclusivity. He fostered a deep understanding of ecumenism, encouraging dialogue and cooperation with other Christian denominations. His profound concern for the poor, both within our local community and across the globe, was evident in his actions and his words. He was particularly attached to those in need, dedicating significant effort to supporting them.

Perhaps Maurice's greatest gift to us was his unwavering trust. He empowered numerous lay individuals and teams, entrusting them with vital ministries such as Baptism preparation, Catechesis, and Youth Chaplaincy. His support for our young people and various groups was instrumental in their growth and development.

He encouraged reflection on the Gospels and engaged actively with parents of children preparing for Baptism and Catechesis. He offered solace and support to those experiencing grief, and we are certain there are many other contributions we have yet to recall. His consistent message was, "There are teams in the parish, approach them, I trust them completely." This delegation of responsibility allowed the parish to thrive.

Yet, he also reminded us of the importance of unity and guidance: "In any case, you have always done everything you wanted, but the laity must follow their priest." This statement, while perhaps sounding firm, underscored his understanding of the hierarchical structure and the need for cohesive leadership.

These human interactions were vital, but when Maurice donned his alb and celebrated Mass and sacraments, a tangible sense of the Holy Spirit pervaded. Through his words and his clear, impactful homilies, he conveyed his priestly faith and his fidelity to God. While occasionally lengthy, his sermons were always thought-provoking and challenging, prompting deep reflection.

Yes, there truly was a priest in the parish of Meyzieu, a priest who led his flock with great skill and a genuine desire to remain with us. We deeply appreciated Maurice's expressed wish to stay, a testament to his commitment and affection for our community. Maurice, we will cherish all that you have taught us, all that you have given us, and most importantly, the profound trust you placed in each of us.

Acknowledging Jorge's Contribution

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Jorge for his three years of dedicated service. Though his time with us was shorter, his impact has been significant. His presence has been a blessing, and we are grateful for the spiritual guidance and companionship he has provided.

A Fond Farewell

Anne-Marie Casseville has shared some touching words about Jorge, adding another layer of appreciation to our farewells. To both Maurice and Jorge, we offer our deepest gratitude. We will never forget you.

The love you both hold for God has truly "rubbed off" on each of us, inspiring us to live our faith more fully. Your example has been a powerful testament to the teachings you have shared.

These words of appreciation were read by Monique Bidaud and Dominique Didenot, who have also been integral parts of our parish community. As we say goodbye, we carry with us the lessons learned, the memories made, and the enduring love that binds us together in faith.

We wish Maurice and Jorge God's richest blessings as they embark on their new journeys. May their ministries continue to be fruitful, and may they always know the deep appreciation and affection we hold for them.

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