Testimony – Cenacle Companion

My name is Pat Healy. I am married with two daughters living in Cork, Ireland. I have been associated with the Cenacle Sisters since 1988 when they came to our parish. I am a retired counsellor and hospital chaplaincy worker, currently doing voluntary work with the Irish Cancer Society in Cork.

When did you first become aware that you had a call to deepen your spiritual life?

I have had a lifelong hunger and search for God nurtured in my married life through spiritual direction received in the Cenacle.

Why did you choose the Cenacle Companions?

I see my call to be a Cenacle Companion as a concrete expression of my life as a committed Christian laywoman.

What is the best thing about being a Cenacle Companion?

The love and support of our group nourished by our monthly meetings and deep friendship existing among us and the Cenacle Community.

What do you find most difficult?

The climate of intransigence and repression in the Catholic church towards women.

What is most rewarding?

The authenticity of our shared faith experiences affirmed within the cenacle which gives me a renewed sense of purpose.

What is most challenging?

The daily quest to combine our talents and abilities and create something good together, opening ourselves to the wonder of relationships both Divine and human.

What supports you as a Cenacle Companion?

The love and support of my fellow Companions and the local Community of Cenacle Sisters.

Any tips on how to pray?

Sitting quietly and relaxing in the realisation that God loves me and all of us unconditionally.

Giving advice is always a bit risky, however what is the best bit you have been given?

Try to live totally in the now.

Name three people, alive or from history, that you would invite for a meal?

Charles de Foucauld, Ghandi, and Thomas Merton.