Memories of Ted Kennedy

I was in Redfern from about late eighties until 1993. People from about 167 Parishes in Sydney were attracted to the Redfern church Community headed by Father Ted Kennedy. His preaching of the Gospel, reading and sharing theology was refreshing. It challenged us to practical works of peace and justice. Mum Shirl Smith was a powerful model for us all. I recall wonderful celebrations of Easter where Parishioners were involved in creating touching authentic ways of celebrating; Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday. The Gospel imperative called us to join peace ventures, attend court appearances to support aboriginal friends and visit the same in prison. Father Ted, a strong spiritual leader – one of us in complicated planning, in celebrating or cleaning a church.