Today we met to honour the life of Julie Frawley, the youngest child of Majors Lawrence and Joy Coleman, who was "Promoted to Glory" on Thursday 21 February 2008, aged 46 years. Loving wife of Kieran and devoted mother to Lawrence (19) and Ciaran (14). Born in Melbourne, Julie spent most of her childhood years living and studying in Kenya where her parents served faithfully as missionaries for many years. Her strong Christian upbringing made an impact on her life that saw Julie profess her own personal faith in Jesus as an adult. Julie loved life and lived it to the full, always looking to the needs of others and loving those around her.The service was held in Our Lady of Victories Basilica in Camberwell, concelebrated by Fr Michael Morgan and myself. It was truly an ecumenical celebration of thanksgiving for Julie's life that brought much honour and glory to God.
In times of great personal tragedy and testing, it is comforting to know the more than sufficient grace of God upholding and strengthening us. With this in mind, Jesus shared words of comfort with His disciples saying … “Do not be afraid. Trust in God, trust also in me.” (John 14:1)
It is the grace of God that guides us into a personal relationship with Jesus.
It is the grace of God that assures us of His loving care and concern.
And it is the grace of God that finally brings us “without fault and with great joy” into His eternal presence.
An Old Irish Blessing
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind always be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
And rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
