In the magnificent surroundings of the Castle in Clongowes, thirty-one OCs gathered for the 2025 Clongowes Union Easter Retreat. Held on Holy Thursday and Good Friday, 17/18 April, the Retreat consisted of a series of talks, liturgies, reminiscences, laughter, good food and conviviality. It was remarkable to witness the comradery and strength of fraternity between the OCs, who ranged in age from 26 to 91. Most stayed overnight on Holy Thursday, sleeping in the 6th year (Rhetoric) rooms, with beds and mattresses more suited to pilgrimage than five-star luxury! 

We were privileged to have Fr Barney McGuckian as Retreat Director. He regaled us with stories, laced with theology from Ignatius to Aquinas. Using Christy O’Connor, the golfer, as an example, he explained the nature of intercessory prayer, used to seek divine intervention during severe turbulence!

We remembered Fr Colin Warrack, a much loved and highly regarded biology teacher in Clongowes, who died in Cherryfield, in Dublin, on the morning of the Retreat. We also remembered Fr Kevin Casey, our Retreat Director in 2024, who died in March. May they Rest In Peace. 

Three past Presidents and the incoming President of the Union enhanced the retreat with their attendance. 

Ms Vicki Cahill and Ms Emma Robinson provided excellent administrative support and warmly welcomed the OCs to Clongowes. 

On Good Friday, Fr Michael Sheil, the Rector of Clongowes, joined Fr Barney in the People’s chapel for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and later for the Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion. 

Given the declining numbers of Jesuits, a discussion was held about the future of the Retreat. Attendees agreed that the priority was to continue the Retreat annually and that it be based in Clongowes, with a Jesuit or person nominated by a Jesuit as Retreat Director. All agreed that more OCs should be encouraged to attend for what is a most enjoyable and uplifting event. 

John Sheehan, OC ’74, Retreat host