VALEDICTORY.

Shannon News, 13 February 1923, Page 3

VALEDICTORY.

REV. FATHER FORRESTAL

The congregation of St. Joseph’s Church, Shannon, met after Mass on Sunday last to’ bid farewell to the Rev. Father Forrestal, when Mr J. W. Fitzgerald made the following adaddress: —

“On behalf of the Tokomaru and Shannon congregations, I wish to say it is with the greatest feeling of regret we heard of your intended transfer to Inglewood. You have been with us between five or six years, and although we know that priests ol ability and experience must transfer when ordered to a larger parish -with its greater responsibilities, even that knowledge does not lighten our regret at your departure. Your work among; the "children alone will not only be a blessing to them, but to the church in years to come. Thanks to you that this parish financially has made great strides during the last few years, and as chairman of the committee, I must acknowledge your keen" business ability and the tact shown in all your dealings" with the committee, and also that you thoroughly understand the difficulties met with by the secretary and cliairnian. 1 hope that yop will prosper in your new parish, and that in thd near future yon will be able to take a well-earned holiday and visit your native land, and 1 hope find there some of the progress we should expect In the coming years. Finally, 1 must say we have been proud of our priest, and I cun assure you that we will not forget you. I therefore ask you to accept a cheque as some small token of the love and esteem coining from a grateful people for whom you have laboured so faithfully.” The Rev. Father Forrestal, who was much moved, ■ in thanking Mr Fitzgerald, said it was 'with-genuine regret he, was leaving the Foxton-Shau-non parish. He would uever forget the people, who had so loyally helped him in any request he made of them. He thanked 6ne ’ and all from his heart and assured them they would never be fofgotten by him in liis prayers. He also asked that the same loyal support be accorded his successor, Rev. Father Doolaghty. Father Forrestal leaves for Inglewood next week.