‘’Give praise to the Lord,

for love of whom Saint Thomas studied and worked at all times”

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These words, drawn from the Benedictus antiphon for the feast of St Thomas Aquinas, to be celebrated on Wednesday this week, fittingly capture my sentiments as I write to you, dear parishioners and readers. It has been a great privilege to study in London and work here at Spanish Place during this period. I give praise to God for the opportunity and thank you all for your support. I have continued to enjoy an outpouring of love, especially at the parish farewell last week. Thank you all for your prayers, gifts, cards, kind words and friendship. It is indeed a blessing to be part of this remarkable family.

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On this Third Sunday in Ordinary time, the church celebrates the Sunday of the Word of God. In his Apostolic Letter, Aperuit illis, Pope Francis instituted this day to deepen our love of Sacred Scripture and highlight the inseparable bond between the Word of God and the life of the Christian community. The motto for this seventh-year celebration is “The word of Christ dwells among you” (Col 3:16). May we allow the living word to form our consciences, guide our choices and transform our lives.

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The word of God builds up communities and there is usually profound joy in the family at the birth of a newborn. This is especially true for our community. A year ago, the Young Adults Group was born in our parish. What began as a hopeful idea has, by God’s grace, grown into a living community for young Catholics in and around London. Over this past year, faith has deepened, friendships have formed and young hearts have discovered that the Church is enriched by their gifts.

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We have prayed, meditated on Sacred Scripture, laughed, learned and even danced. The group is our way of heeding the summons of Pope Benedict XVI during the World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney, when he said: ‘Dear young friends, the Lord is calling you to be prophets of this new age, messengers of his love, drawing people to the Father and building a future of hope for all humanity.’ It is hard to deny that society needs a good dose of love and hope for a dignified living inspired by the truths of the Gospel.

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In no small measure, we are immensely grateful to the Rector for his guidance, the coordinators, guest speakers, volunteers and all who have contributed in many ways to the growth of the group. We sincerely appreciate the benefactors who sponsored our group events. As we joyfully mark this first anniversary, may the Holy Spirit continually inspire and renew all our young people.

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We have another reason to rejoice at the workings of the Holy Spirit in our parish, as we are happy to welcome Father Domenico Lando. Jeremiah 3:15 states: ‘Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.’ How else can we describe his timely arrival, if not a fulfilment of the divine word? Providentially, Fr Domenico will be present at the Young Adults Mass and the anniversary celebrations. We look forward to welcoming him, all Young Adults and our friends to Mass at 12 and to the reception that follows in the social centre. It will be another chance to celebrate what God is doing in our parish community.

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It is inspiring to feel the spirit of generosity that runs through the parish. Personally, I have always found the conversations and words of encouragement after Mass deeply moving. They remind me of the constant need to nourish the people of God through the Word and sacraments. I am very grateful for those moments and cherish them. It is a sign of a community striving to grow in faith and to reflect Christ in many ways. The generosity of your time, talent and treasure in service of the church and the needy is genuinely remarkable. Remember to share your wisdom, experience and support with the younger members of our parish community who are navigating life with ever-increasing difficulty and uncertainty.

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There will be an opportunity to show further kindness this weekend during the second collection for the White Flower Appeal. The White Flower Appeal is championed by the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children. The appeal is dedicated to protecting unborn children and promoting the right to life in society. Donations can also be made directly through their website (https://spuc.org.uk/white-flower-2026/). Let us play a part in promoting the sanctity of human life.

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As I prepare to take my leave from the parish, I do so with a heart full of gratitude. Thank you for the love and genuine friendship; it has been a privilege to share in the life and mission of this beloved church. I wish to express my sincere thanks to the Rector for his fatherly care and to all the visiting clergy who support the pastoral life of our parish. I appreciate those who work quietly and faithfully behind the scenes in different capacities to ensure the smooth running of the parish. Through the intercession of St James, may God bless the parishioners and all who are associated with this church.

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Ifunanya, the word for ‘love’ in Eastern Nigeria, literally means ‘I see you in my eyes’. I love you all and will always see Spanish Place in my eyes.