Fr. John Byrne, Fr Stephen Crossan and I hope all our parishioners had a very happy Christmas and are able to enjoy these days with family and friends. We thank everyone who contributed to the very generous Christmas collection which we received.

We are very fortunate to have Fr. Stephen, who was ordained recently, on our parish team. Fr John and I appreciate his partnership with us in our service to this parish. During this year of special prayer for vocations to the priesthood we ask God to inspire others to ‘be open and responsive to the call of serving your people’.

I thank most sincerely the many people who serve our parish community in various ways. It was encouraging that the recent training in the important area of safeguarding of children was embraced by our staff and volunteers. There will be other opportunities for training for those who were unable to attend up to now. This training and the procedures which are being implemented in all parishes will safeguard everyone and form the basis of all pastoral activity.

In June of this year I presented proposals to refurbish and repair our beautiful Church. The reaction was very positive and encouraging and illustrates the special place which St. Peter’s has in our parish community. It continues to be our intention to commence the repair work next May. I know fundraising in the present economic climate is going to be very challenging, but possible with good community interest and support. It is good that many people have already come forward to lend a helping hand, while others have given very generous donations.  Early in the New Year the Finance Council will be presenting a strategy which, with good community involvement, will ensure the success of the project.  Let us all do our bit to protect and safeguard this most precious heritage as we prepare for and face the future with hope.

This time last year I regretted the slow progress in the programme for the new schools for St. Teresa’s and Tannaghmore. Since then, planning permission for both schools has been given and I am advised that the building work for both of them is expected to commence in the autumn of 2009.

Government policy, which is expected to come into force in 2010, will take reception pupils out of primary schools. This means, as neither of our new primary schools will be able to enrol pre-school age pupils, Drumnamoe Nursery School will be the main provider of pre-school education for them. At present it is too small to satisfy the anticipated extra enrolment, but adjacent land has been acquired in order to build an extension. However, the Department of Education requires a proven demand for places before it will authorise an extension. It is very important for parents who would like their children to attend Tannaghmore or St. Teresa’s to enrol them in Drumnamoe so that a new extension can be provided sooner rather than later for the benefit of the children’s education.

The present Parish Core Group has been in office for the past five years. I would like to thank the members for their constant support and advice. Within the next few months other parishioners will be given an opportunity to offer their service in the pastoral and spiritual life of our parish

I thank Fr. John and Fr Stephen and the other priests in this area for their support and friendship and also our faithful staff for their dedicated service.

Next Thursday, 1st January, is the Feast of Mary the Mother of God and World Day of Prayer for Peace. This outgoing year has been one of declining fortunes and extra financial pressures for  people. Hopefully next year will mark a turning point towards better and more peaceful times ahead.

With every best wish for 2009.

Rt. Rev. Mgr. Aidan Hamill, P.P.V.G.