The Roman Catholic Society

As many of you know, we moved to Scotland so that Brendan could do a Master's degree at the University of Stirling. He is studying Energy Management, a program which I believe is unique to the university. It's a relatively new program with a few wrinkles to iron out, but Brendan seems to be enjoying it so far. The first semester is heavy in math, which is proving to be a bit of a challenge, but one that B has embraced with energetic determination. 


Because the program started in September, Brendan came to Stirling on his own to begin classes. He arrived on September 16th, 10 days after Liam's birth (I was in no condition to travel across the ocean at that time! Plus we had decided that I would stay at home until after Jess & Joel's wedding, B would come back for that occasion, and then we would go over together). In addition to attending classes, Brendan tasked himself with making a home for his little family here in Stirling, and creating a social network that Liam and I could fit into when we arrived (so that we wouldn't be too lonely!). His efforts proved quite successful (not that there was ever any doubt - if anyone is good at making friends, it's Brendan!). After a few attempts at engaging strangers on the street (yes, he actually walked down the street trying to talk to locals - what a guy!), he finally connected with some people who would become his friends. Among them a Colombian named German (pronounced Er-mahn - accent on the mahn) who ended up rooming with him for a couple weeks, and two Italian guys - all from his program at school. He also met some members of the University of Stirling's Roman Catholic Society. 


The encounter with the RC Society was providential. One day during his first week here, Brendan was feeling lonely and burdened, so he stopped by St. Mary's to spend a few moments in prayer. The church was locked, but there was a grotto outside so he prayed there. The time of prayer and reflection brought him much needed peace, and he returned home feeling lighter and more hopeful. During that visit to the church he had also noticed the schedule of Masses and times for confession. The following Saturday, he went back to St. Mary's to meet the priest for confession. He was a bit late and found the doors locked again, but two men sitting on the steps of the church told him that Fr. Kenneth was in the rectory and would likely be willing to hear his confession there. So Brendan made his way over to the rectory and introduced himself to Fr. Kenneth. After imparting the sacrament, Father told Brendan about CathSoc. The group meets three times a week: Tuesday evenings at the parish for dinner and discussion, Wednesday afternoons on campus for Mass and lunch, and Sundays after 11:30 Mass at the parish for lunch and fellowship. They also organize visits to local historical sites, as well as weekend trips to various interesting places. Brendan has been attending the Tuesday and Sunday gatherings since Fr. Kenneth introduced him to the group and, ever the enthusiastic host, invited some of the members over for dinner one evening in October.


Brendan was eager to introduce me to his new friends, and since my first full day in Stirling fell on a Tuesday, he didn't have to wait long. That evening's dinner was preceded by a tour of St. Mary's given by Fr. Kenneth, who has been pastor there for about 6 years I think (I don't know that for sure - just deducing from a few things he said during the tour). The church was built in 1905 and renovated in 2005. It's quite beautiful inside, displaying a quality of architecture and decor that was made possible through the generous donation of a wealthy benefactress. Fr. Kenneth gave an excellent tour - having been responsible for overseeing the 2005 renovations, it was evident that he takes great pride in the beauty of this church.

St. Mary's - view from the choir loft

View from the sanctuary

After the tour we had dinner together in the rectory. I enjoyed getting to know some of the members of the society (not all were there that night - the group counts approximately 35 members but not everyone can attend every gathering). Of the 12 people present that night, only 3 were Scottish: Fr. Kenneth, Catriona (who helps moderate the group, organizes activities, makes meals, etc.) and Michael, a student from Edinburgh. The others included 3 Canadians (us!), Rafal and Kasia from Poland, Carlos from Spain, Brigid from Australia, Christy from England, and Sylvia from Slovakia. I understand the rest of the group is quite international as well. It was fun to have so many different accents around the table! The society's next event is a weekend trip to the Isle of Skye, which B signed us up for before he came home. I've heard that Skye is absolutely gorgeous and am looking forward to seeing it. I'm also glad to have an opportunity to spend some time with the group - travelling together is always a great way to solidify friendships!

The group

Brendan doesn't have class on Wednesdays, so we were together all day yesterday. He had lots of schoolwork to do, but we still managed to enjoy some family time. Liam is a real joy - B & I are loving watching him grow. He smiles all the time now and is becoming more vocal every day. I discovered yesterday that he can now hold his rattle, which thrilled me to pieces (having a baby really makes one appreciate the small miracles of life - a hand that once couldn't grasp anything can now hold a rattle!!!) He whacked himself in the head with it a few times but no serious damage was done!

My little munchkin

Tummy Time!

Holding his rattle for the first time

I also had the opportunity to meet German yesterday. He accidentally locked himself out of his apartment in the morning, so he came over to pass the time before his fiancée came home.  It was nice to meet him - he and Brendan seem to get on very well. 


The rest of the day was spent doing a few errands, unpacking suitcases, caring for Liam, etc. I was more tired yesterday than the day before - I suppose that's normal. Excitement keeps fatigue at bay on the first day, but only rest can prevent exhaustion. Luckily I had a great sleep last night. Little Chincer was fussy in the evening and didn't settle down to sleep until about 1am... but then slept like a champion until 7:45! He was in a great mood this morning when I went to get him, cooing and smiling as I picked him up. Moments like that make me so happy to be a mom!!!

Outside our apartment before going out to do errands.
German took the picture.