The purpose of our visit was to present her with a framed print of ‘The Last Supper’ by the Polish artist, Bohdan Piasecki. The painting represents Jesus sharing the Passover meal with women disciples and children, as well as men.
It was a lovely morning as we set off for the Phoenix Park and we were filled with expectancy as we drove up to the House. The trees surrounding the park were displaying their beautiful autumn colours in the sunshine. One could sense the presence of God all around us, so warm and welcoming.
We were greeted by the President’s Aide-de-camp, who ushered us into the grand reception room. After a few minutes, the President entered and she welcomed each one of us with a handshake or a hug, as we introduced ourselves. Of course, as a long-standing member of BASIC, she already knew some of us quite well.
Colm Holmes and Joan Tracey then handed over the painting to the President (see photo) while Delma Sheridan explained some of the theological thinking behind it.
After studying the painting quite carefully and listening to Delma’s comments, the President expressed her delight and gratitude at receiving such a gift. She informed us that she had already decided where it would hang - in the chapel of the Áras, where the Blessed Sacrament is reserved.
We were thrilled to hear this - and even more so when she suggested that some day we might all celebrate the Eucharist together in the chapel.
Then it was time for some informal chat and refreshments. We shared our hopes and dreams for the future - we laughed at some of the stories she told us. I felt a deep admiration and respect for her. She seemed to enjoy the meeting as much as we did. Before she left us, she encouraged us in BASIC to continue striving for the ordination of women. She also told us she would meet with Pope John Paul II on her official visit to the Vatican in February, 1999. We promised to pray for each other.
We were then taken on a short tour of the House, which was most interesting as each room has its own story. In the museum in the basement (open to the public)we watched a video on the history of the President’s Residence. How times have changed!
As we left, we carried home a wonderful sense of renewed confidence in ourselves, in each other, in what we believe in and hope for so passionately.
