Last month I wrote about my impending Priesting on 5^th October at Holy Trinity Clapham and my reflections and expectations.

 Well that wonderful day has come and passed – it was for me and I believe for many a spirit filled occasion – full of warmth and thanksgiving.

And if my priesting, with eight colleagues in training surrounded with many friends and family, fulfilled my expectations, my first Eucharist on Sunday 6^th with the following agape meal, exceeded my expectations.  

 I am often reticent about sharing my personal feelings, but I want to share with you my joy in standing at the altar on that sunlit morning in St Mary’s and presiding at the Lord’s Table.   It was both a joyful and humbling experience.  I have stood at that table many times as deacon, preparing the table, but not completing that all encompassing act of worship.  It is an act of course performed thousands of times in the lifetime of most priests, and I must as all priests, be aware of the danger of this central act of worship and presidency becoming in any way routine.  I trust with the Lord’s guidance and your – the family of St Mary’s – presence and support, that this danger will be avoided.  As I wrote last month I have been constantly aware of and am grateful for the continued practical and spiritual support that I have received from the congregation and staff and in particular from Tom during the past year.

I have also received many presents and cards, but I want especially to thank the parish for their gift of a white cassock alb to wear at services and particularly at the Eucharist.  It is a gift that has both a practical and spiritual dimension. It is especially a reminder to me of the debt that I owe to you, who have supported me over the years in my training for the priesthood.

 I trust and pray that I shall be able to sustain your confidence in me as your Honorary Curate and member of the staff team.  I look forward to serving you and with God’s help to continue to bring the good news of the Gospel to the parish.

 To all who made the weekend so special- thank you.