Chaplain's birthday benefits Haiti fund

Gormanston priest and chaplain to the Defence Forces, Fr Robert McCabe celebrated his 40th birthday with family and friends at a very enjoyable evening in the CityNorth Hotel on Sunday. Billed as an opportunity for Fr Robert's family, friends and colleagues to gather for "light refreshments and heavy chocolate" before Ash Wednesday, all who gathered at the CityNorth enjoyed a very pleasant St Valentine's evening celebration. Plans for a quiet gathering were initially cancelled following the earthquake in Haiti but due to "peer pressure" from some local parishioners and an excuse to party before Lent, Fr Robert decided to extend an invitation through the parish newsletter. The invitation grew to a packed house of over 220 well-wishers on the evening. A special welcome was extended to Fr Robert's parents, Brian and Angela McCabe from Kinnegad. Also in attendance were his past teachers, Gerry and Breda Twomey from Clonard, and colleagues from civilian, military and religious communities. At the end of the evening, Fr Robert thanked his "natural family and spiritual family" for all their care, support and kindness. A relaxed carnival atmosphere was hosted by the staff at the CityNorth Hotel, with music provided by the Men in Black. Being Valentine's evening, Fr Robert said it was super to see so many newly-weds and engaged couples gathering, dancing and sharing the excitement of meeting other young couples. A box in the corner on the night labelled in Créole 'Ed pou Ayiti' raised over €3,430 through donations and gift vouchers to benefit communities affected by the recent earthquake in Haiti.