James (Shem) Cantwell

Died on January 12, 2024

Predeceased by his parents Kieran and Elizabeth, and his nephews Seamus and Kieran. Deeply regretted by his brothers John and Joe, sisters Eileen (Nolan), May (McCormack), Claire (McEvoy), Monica, and Ann (Doherty), brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.

MAY SHEM REST IN PEACE

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Reflection

The greatest work we can carry out as Christians is to forgive. As the Father forgave us through Jesus’ Death on the Cross, so we forgive others through our example. The Christian offers forgiveness first without demanding an apology beforehand, and not even expecting the apology at the same time as forgiveness is given: just as Christ on the Cross not only did not receive an apology from those around Him, but received instead mockery and scorn.

For us, too, Jesus does not wait to forgive us until we are good and strong enough to appear before Him and offer an apology. He offers to cleanse us of our sinfulness when we are yet babies, unable even to speak or realize that we are conceived in this world as sinners. We in our turn should offer forgiveness from our hearts and through our words and actions before someone who has wronged us even asks for it. This is the message that alone can bring peace to the world and make it possible for Jesus’ words to come true: “Peace be with you.”

Castlecomer Parish
Church of the Immaculate Conception

James (Shem) Cantwell

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