Jesuit has last word on Ahern’s departure

Outgoing Taoiseach Bertie Ahern concluded his final Dáil session with a quote from the Jesuit writer, Fr John Sullivan. Mr Ahern urged that life be taken “in instalments” and that each day be a new beginning: “Let the past go. Now let me do whatever I have the power to do.” Mr Ahern has been a regular attendee at services in St. Francis Xavier’s Church, Gardiner Street, where Fr. Sullivan’s tomb is a centre of devotion and prayer. Fr. John Sullivan, who died in 1933, had a reputation for holiness and healing, especially in Co Kildare. The Cause for his canonisation was formally begun in 2002, and many come to Gardiner Street be blessed with his cross and visit his tomb. For the story of Fr. Sullivan’s life see: www.gardinerstparish.ie.