It’s that time of a year again, and no I’m not just talking about autumn, but Wexford’s 64th Opera Festival! The First Festival of Music and the Arts took place in October 1951, and since has become a Wexford tradition. Each year actors, singers, and spectators from all over the world come to participate and enjoy concerts, operas, and recitals that take place in various parts of town. Needless to say Wexford is alive with the sound of music!
Rikki, Susanna, and Geoff visit Wexford!
However, music isn’t the only presence here in town, our Wexford community has been blessed with the presence of many lovely visitors! Recently, Teach Bhride Dublin spent a day at Clonard with us; learned what tea with the tea ladies is all about, and met the parish team. Next, Marianne our wonderful advisor from Notre Dame, spent a 
few days in Wexford town. Marianne’s visit consisted of sharing in the ministries and liturgies that Teach Bhride partakes in, and participating in the upcoming festivities. Marianne got a brief taste of
the festival attending the performance Koanga with Laura before leaving for Dublin. This weekend we were also accompanied by two prospective Teach Bhride members, Joe and Gavin, who are members of the Folk
Choir at the University of Notre Dame. It was a blessing to have them share their musical talents as participants in both the Vigil Choir and Folk Choir. Furthermore, we are particularly glad to have the Folk Group back on the half eleven Mass, and we’re excited to continue singing with them.
Additionally, twenty-one Notre Dame Students came to Ireland on a pilgrimage over their fall break! On Wednesday they joined us for rosary, Mass and tea
, and we shared a very Irish (American) meal of Domino’s pizza together. Although this day was full of unexpected happenings both for the pilgrims and for us here at Wexford, the day became a beautiful experience of being present to one another. Thus, the Clonard parish continues to be vibrant and alive with prayer, music, and love.
Lastly, Brendan’s parents are in town! You will all be happy to know that Brendan has successfully been able to DRIVE ON THE LEFT as he and his family travel around Ireland.
Now, as if that all isn’t fun enough Jena, Laura, and I recently went to Le Pre’ aux clercs the French Opera, and all of us made it to Wexford harbor for the opening of the festival fireworks.
To summarize, it is a delightful time to be in Wexford, and surely never a dull moment to be had!
Until Next Time,
Kristen
