Milestones not Millstones!

This week two great milestones occurred.

On March 10th, I and those around me celebrated the anniversary of my birth! I really was a beautiful baby... or so my mother tells me. It is probably fair to say that she didn't know me that well when she named me otherwise right now you could be reading the blog of a Mark or a Thomas? I hear even the name Engelbert was proffered (Yes... after Engelbert Humperdinck, my mothers idol!)

Instead she named me Manuel, deriving from the Hebrew Emmanuel "God is with us!".... Hmmm....

I remember my first job interview and I sat down in front of the person conducting the interview and he asks, "What's your name?"
In my breaking adolescent voice I reply "Manuel Beazley"
to which he continued, "When's your birthday?"
"March 10" I confidently respond.
"What year?" he asks.
"Every year..." I cheekily admit.

Sad to say, but I didn't get the job, but it wasn't too long before I was sitting before an employer being interviewed again.

Anyway enough about me... another birthday been and gone.

The other significant milestone is the payment deadline for the Travel and Administration component of the World Youth Day pilgrimage on March 11th.

Travelling the diocese and being a part of so many fundraising events I have accquired a deep respect for the leaders, parents and supporters of all the WYD pilgrims who have tirelessly sold cakes, sausages, prayer cards - you name it. They've washed cars; put up with loud music at fundraising socials; sold raffle tickets; walked the streets...etc.

They are the un-sung heroes of this WYD pilgrimage and I just want to take my hat off to you. You are all amazing and I know that when WYD is over, your work and efforts will begin to bear fruit for the Church and the kingdom of God.

Secondly, congratulations to group leaders who have put in a hell of an effort (can I say hell?? oh well) over the last 12 months. It is largely due to your commitment and leadership that this pilgrimage will be successful.

Speaking particulary to the group leaders of the Auckland diocese but in the same sense to group leaders throughout the country. The diocese is indeed very appreciative and grateful for all that you have done and all that is still expected of you. This has been a mammoth undertaking for us all and I personally have nothing but admiration for you.

May God continue to bless you...