The Diocese suffered a great loss with the sudden death of Fr. Dermott Donnelly. Fr. Dermott has been the spiritual anchor of the Youth Ministries almost since his ordination. He only recently celebrated 30 years of his priesthood. Our prayers and sympathies go especially to his mother Anne. We pray also for the priests of the Diocese for whom Fr. Dermott was a trusted friend and colleague.We are rebuilding our rotas of readers and Ministers of the Eucharist. Can I appeal for more volunteers for both.
Perhaps some walkers/pilgrims in the parish might be interested in the events taking place in Bishop Auckland to celebrate the postponed Holy Year in Compostela. The events are posted in the bulletin and on the Parish website.
The death took place this week of Fr. Tom Burke. Fr. Tom was a curate at St. Godric’s with Fr. Rice many years ago. Known for his straight talking, he was nonetheless a much-loved priest with a great devotion to Our Lady of Lourdes. May Fr. Tom and Fr. Dermott rest in peace.Both men represented two generations of priesthood, but two great models and influences for all that’s good and decent in their ministries .Great news this week with St Leonard’s in the recent shake up for rebuilding. This is long overdue, and our congratulations go to Mr Hamill and staff for this very important new phase in the school’s development.