Dear Parishioners,
This is my first newsletter to you as Parish Priest of St Mary’s, and some of you reading this will inevitably be new to the parish, and you are most welcome. So, for those of you who don’t know me, I had better say a little bit about myself. I am a priest of only two years, ordained for the Institute of Charity or the Rosminians in July 2015. I formerly worked as a professional musician in London before joining the Order in 2007. I did my priestly studies at the Beda College in Rome, and since ordination I have been Assistant Priest here at St Mary’s which I have much enjoyed, being under the very capable leadership of Fr Philip Sainter from whom I have learnt a lot.
However, after only two years as a priest, it is a rather daunting prospect to be asked to be a Parish Priest. However, “with God all things are possible”! (Matt 19:26). I look forward to ministering here in this role and working with you. Please feel free to contact me at any time. I am available and would like to hear from you.
While reflecting on one’s seeming inadequacies for the task, St Paul’s words in Second Corinthians come to mind: “For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses… for when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Cor 12:10) and “I can do all things in Him who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13). I ask for your prayers and support as I begin my new role at St Mary’s.
God bless you all.
Fr Paul Gillham IC
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