TRIBUTE TO BOB IRWIN MSC AS HE COMPLETES HIS TERM AS DIRECTOR OF MSC EDUCATION.

The Chevalier Institute began during Fr Bob’s time developed from his recognition of the need for faith formation for adults in Spirituality of the Heart. Both as Director of the Institute and Director of MSC Education, Bob’s visionary leadership has guided the Institute. As he passes on the role of Director of MSC Education into lay hands it is fitting to pay tribute to this inspirational man, from some of those who worked with him.

Thank you, Fr Bob from the hearts of so many who have been touched by your vision …

Fr Bob Irwin is the visionary who consulted, collaborated and gave life to Chevalier Institute. His deep faith and profound spirituality; his leadership, inspiration, trust and belief in those entrusted to give the Institute ‘wings’ is a great testament to him.

Julie Taylor

Fr Bob’s vision and foresight in establishing the Chevalier Institute in the first instance and his subsequent, significant involvement in it over so many years, inclusive of his ‘guiding hand’ offered to all who have come and gone from it as time has gone by, has enabled MSC schools to continue in their Mission and Vision - to truly be places where the Heart Spirituality that flows from the charism of Jules Chevalier is deeply embedded, thanks to the marvellous opportunities for meaningful spiritual formation that are afforded to staff in the colleges via the Chevalier Institute.

Anne McAtomney

Bob is what I would consider the stereotypical MSC. From the time I first met him, it has been his hospitality and humour that has stood out the most. Always on for a chat, always having a laugh. He has always been a good help with everything I have done during my time at Monivae College. Well done Father Bob, good luck for the next part of your journey.

Danny Franc

Bob opens his heart and inspires others to do the same. He leads with authenticity, love and compassion. In search for the truth always he is a beacon of strength and wisdom. He empowers others to listen to their heart, to live out the vision of Jules Chevalier in a contemporary and individual way.

Fiona Mulhall

Bob’s vision and support for the work of the Chevalier Institute has assisted in all the schools having an emphasis on Heart Spirituality at the core of their mission. Because of the wonderful work of the Chevalier Institute under Bob’s guidance, Monivae College in recent times was able to face the prospect of having no professed MSC in the school with the calm assurance that Monivae would remain true to its MSC charism.

Mark McGinnity

Bob epitomizes the charism of the MSC as expressed in MSC Constitutions. His leadership style is one of inclusiveness marked by kindness and understanding, compassion and forgiveness. Bob in conjunction with a wonderful sense of humour has this generosity of spirit that invites others into the MSC family in a welcoming, affirming way. He is an inspiring leader and a wise mentor and guide to others he empowers to take on leadership roles. And most importantly Bob is a man of deep faith, a lover of others and of life.

Philip Fitzgerald