Right Rev. Monsignor John Boland

Died on June 6, 2021

Peacefully in the care of the staff of Elm Hall Nursing Home. Formerly of Eyrecourt, Galway and St. Francis de Sales Parish, Vernon, New Jersey.

Deeply regretted by his brother Monsignor Eugene, sister-in-law Mai, Niece Noreen and husband Niall, nephews John, Tony and Michael, their partners Anne, Anne and Alice, grand-nieces Emma, Hayley and Cora, grand-nephews Liam, Ian and Eamon, cousins, carers, extended family and friends along with fellow priests and former parishioners. Pre-deceased by his parents and brothers Eamon and baby Joseph.

REQUIESCAT IN PACE

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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

Right Rev. Monsignor John Boland

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