Father Bill Celebrates 40 Years as a Priest

Father Bill celebrated the 40th anniversary of his ordination to the Priesthood with Masses on Friday, 6th June, and Sunday 8th June. The Friday evening Mass, was attended, despite diluvian rains, by more than 500 local parishoners together with friends from other parishes, including Billericay, Epping, Ilford and Southend.

Afterwards, at a splendid reception held in the Cathedral Hall, Father Bill was presented with a cheque and a booklet compiling the love and best wishes of his many friends.

He was also encouraged to cut the cake made by parishoners for the occasion.

On Sunday 8 June, the actual day of his anniversary, Father Bill celebrated Mass with Bishop Thomas.

Father Bill with Bishop Thomas and Deacon Paul after Mass.

A photograph of Father Bill taken in 1968, the year he was ordained. He was a seminarian at St Patrick's College, at Thurles in County Tipperary, Ireland.

In brilliant sunshine, a party was held after Sunday Mass on the green outside the Cathedral.

Father Bill enjoying meeting parishoners.

A youngster joins Father Paul, Deacon Paul and the Bishop.

Father Bill enjoying meeting more parishoners.

Long may he continue to serve our joint parishes!