Archbishop Bernard joins residents to celebrate Fatima House anniversary
On 16 September, Archbishop Bernard Longley shared dinner with the women staying at Fatima House, to celebrate its first anniversary.
Gathered round the communal dining table, Archbishop Bernard broke bread with residents and other guests. The women cooked dishes from their home countries, resulting in a wonderful array of cuisines.
Residents talked about their lives and shared their stories with the Archbishop. They spoke of their gratitude for the support that Fatima House gives them in difficult times.
Archbishop Bernard also expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended to him by all at Fatima House. He visited Fatima House to give a blessing and to meet the staff and volunteers when it first opened. This visit offered a chance to find out how it has developed and how the women have benefited from the support.
Columban Regional Director, Fr Peter Hughes and Columban Missionaries Fr Tom O’Reilly, Nathalie Marytsch and Mauricio Silva joined Archbishop Bernard. Also present were two members of Fatima House Advisory Committee – Shari Brown, Manager of Restore, and Andy Quinn, CEO of Father Hudson’s Care.
About Fatima House
Fatima House is a partnership project offering shelter to female asylum seekers who would otherwise be destitute and homeless. It offers a warm welcome to the women who stay there, while their asylum claims are finalised. To find out more, visit the Fatima House page on this website.
