Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, When I was growing up birthdays were low key. You might get some new clothes or shoes if you needed them. There were no lavish celebrations. Usually they were an ordinary day. A 21st birthday would be a little more special. As I get older I see birthdays and anniversaries as an opportunity to reflect on life and to be thankful. I want to be thankful for the people I have journeyed with, for the opportunities I have been given. I look back and realize that God has been part of that journey, especially in the times when life seemed to be hard and difficult. I wished a colleague happy birthday recently and his response was, “It is great that after so many years we still have friends of many years journeying with us”. I have had many appointments in my years as a priest. Some I liked and some I did not like, but there were always people who helped and supported me along the way. My family has always been there for me. Their hospitality and welcome has always gone beyond what was expected and more than I could ever return. My society colleagues have always been a source of inspiration and have made me look at the world differently. In my work in parishes and in fundraising I have come across great generosity and faith. All of these things I am thankful for. As I add another year to my collection I choose not to count the number but see it as an opportunity to say Thank you Lord for all you have given me. “Give Thanks to the Lord for He is good” The journey continues, Fr Karl