Pat Gaffney: 'a woman in the prophetic tradition of the scriptures'

Theresa Allessandro, Pat Gaffney, Marie Dennis

Pat Gaffney was described as "a woman in the prophetic tradition of the scriptures" by Bishop Kevin Dowling of Rustenburg last Saturday. The South African bishop, who is a co- President of Pax Christi International, was speaking at her retirement party in London on 13 April. Marie Dennis from the United States, the other co-President, described Pat as "faithful teacher and guide, brilliant seeker of peace, gentle, strong, wise, visionary, committed prophet, servant leader, friend".

Other international guests included Paul Lansu, Senior Policy Adviser at Pax Christi International, and Wiltrud Rosch-Metzler, Chair of Pax Christi Germany. From Britain, Archbishop Malcolm McMahon of Liverpool paid a warm tribute as President of Pax Christi UK, and also Chairs Holly Ball, Margaret Scally and Anne Dodd . Others present included: Anne Peacey and Ann Kelly of the National Justice and Peace Network with other diocesan Justice and Peace workers, Christine Allen and Clare Dixon from CAFOD and Julian Filochowski of the Archbishop Romero Trust.

Pat Gaffney described her surprise party as "a conspiracy of thoughtfulness and love". She praised the team in the Pax Christi office and Executive for their support and commitment.

See the speeches on two DVDs that are now up on Pax Christi UK's youtube channel:

Pat Gaffney's Retirement Party Speeches, Pax Christi www.youtube.com/watch?v=igGK2MRZbaw

and

Pat Gaffney's Speech at her Retirement Party, Pax Christi www.youtube.com/watch?v=nE-QJt0r1N8

Photos at:

www.flickr.com/photos/paxchristiuk/albums