Pentecost Dinner at Carfin: A Spiritan Home of Welcome in the Heart of Scotland

It was more than an event. It was an encounter. A reminder that Pentecost isn’t just a date on the Church’s calendar, but a living fire. And at Carfin, that fire continues to burn brightly

Treasures UnveilerJune 14, 2025310

At the heart of the Spiritan mission is a simple but powerful mantra: “One Heart, One Soul.” That spirit was beautifully alive on Pentecost weekend at the Spiritan Community in Carfin, Scotland, a place where hospitality, faith, and community come together in a truly unique way.

Though not a parish, the Carfin Spiritan community thrives as a centre of welcome, spiritual renewal, and mission outreach. Located near the famous Carfin Grotto, the community lives out the Spiritan charism of openness to the Holy Spirit and solidarity with the poor. With the support of generous volunteers and friends, the community runs a vibrant charity shop, hires out its community hall, and hosts daily Mass from Monday to Saturday at 12 noon.

Some members of the Spiritans group, Fr Ricklan, British First assistant to the Superior, Fr Ugo, The Superior, Fr Matthew Chukwuelobe, Fr Godfrey and Fr Solomon Shamee.

The highlight of the Pentecost celebration, marking the founding of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost Sunday in 1703, was a joyful evening event organised by the Carfin Spiritan Association. The event which began brought together Spiritans, friends, and well-wishers from across Scotland and beyond. Among those present was the Provincial Superior of the British Spiritans, Rev. Fr. Ugo Ikwuka, CSSp.

The Superior, appreciating the entertainers, with James Langton and Fr John McFadden, right.

Music was led by Kathryn Kyle, joined by Ellen, Fr. John McFadden, CSSp, and seminarian Valentine Nwaofor Orizu, CSSp. It was more than an event. It was an encounter. A reminder that Pentecost isn’t just a date on the Church’s calendar, but a living fire. And at Carfin, that fire continues to burn brightly.

Kathryn Kyle, Fr McFadden and Valentine on stage

During the event, attendees were treated to a touching video presentation featuring Spiritan seminarians currently on pastoral mission experience in the UK. In the video, each seminarian shared their unique vocation story, how they first encountered the Spiritans and what drew them to the congregation. They also reflected on their pastoral experiences in the UK, highlighting lessons learned, cultural encounters, and how the Spiritan charism continues to shape their journey of faith and service. click this link to watch the video