Moving to pastures new

As we arrive at Easter Sunday it is another moment of change for us in the Parish of St Peter and St Thomas More. We see Fr Paul, Helen and the family move to pastures new in St Mary Magdalene's Parish in Burnley.

I know that many are sad to see Father and the family move. Over the last 22 months we have been blessed by his friendship, care, pastoral zeal and dedication - all qualities which are at the heart of the priestly call to serve in the pattern of the Good Shepherd, the very inspiration which links us with the Cure of Ars, St John Vianney. I have known Fr Paul and the family over 13 years, since we met in Padiham when I was his Parish Priest. It is fair to say that our meeting was a blessed moment and the friendship which has marked those years continues to be a real blessing. As we have ministered in Middleton and Alkrington, Father's support and help has been invaluable and made a real difference.

On behalf of us all I say ‘thank you’ to Father and assure him, Helen and the family of our prayers and best wishes as they go forward to a new chapter in their journey. I would like to end these few words by quoting St John Paul II: ‘Friendship, as has been said, consists in a full commitment of the will to another person with a view to that person's good’
God Bless - Fr Peter