On Thursday, July 27 Father O’Reilly celebrated his last Emmaus School Mass.  The Mass was prepared by 6H.  It was a very uplifting and a fitting way to say good-bye and thank Father for all that he has done for our school and parish.  Below is a letter to Father composed by Alannah H and Committee.

Dearest Father O’Reilly,

As your faithful service to Sacred Heart/Emmaus Parish comes to an end, your vision for praying, working and sharing will continue. You deserve massive gratitude for your dedicated work throughout the past 49 years. We don’t know of any priest who has been able to accomplish so much and have such an impact on those around you.

Thank you for being with the year six students of 2017 since we were in Prep. Thank you for celebrating each of our sacraments with us, and for changing the way that we look at God. Our faith is what keeps us connected to God, and we can thank you for the way you have nurtured us on our journey of faith.

Every weekend, we learn more about God, and how we can work for Him. We are incredibly grateful for your leadership, guidance, teachings, and for letting us know that God loves each and every one of us. As we attend our school Masses and the weekend Masses, our relationship with God grows stronger because of your constant invitation and encouragement to make time for Jesus. Your famous teachings, such as ‘Come, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, God loves us and come to Mass’ teach us more about how we can live the mission of Jesus and become faith filled leaders for God.

We would like to thank you for all that you have done for our Parish and school community. Finally, you are an angel, saint and most importantly a friend of Jesus. Just like the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, we will always recognize Jesus in you and we will remember you each time we celebrate the Mass. You have made an imprint on our hearts that will never be forgotten. We will try our hardest to live by your example, and be faithful servants of God. In gratitude, we would like to present you with this gift.

Thank you and God bless you.