Some of the Missio team joined the parish community of St Peter’s Catholic Church in Gloucester with Fr Gary’s family, friends and people of the diocese to give thanks for his years of service in the diocese and his commitment to Missio as Diocesan Director and Trustee.

In his homily, Mgr Liam Slattery VG spoke of how the priestly ministry has evolved over time, and of the impact Fr Gary has had – and continues to have – in the parishes and communities he serves. Along with Fr Gary’s many other roles, Mgr Liam highlighted his commitment to priestly fraternity that is

‘…deeply appreciated and is a blessing to many priests both within the diocese and beyond.’

On behalf of the Church, he thanked Fr Gary with these words:

‘Thank you for your generous service, your fidelity to Christ and your church, and your brotherhood among your fellow priests. On behalf of all of us, not just here present, but throughout our diocese, congratulations on your celebration this evening. And where the Lord has begun this good work, may he bring it to completion.’

We join with the Clifton Diocese in thanking Fr Gary for his 25 years of priesthood, and especially for his ministry as Diocesan Director and Trustee, enabling the Red Box and the work of Missio and the Mill Hill Missionaries to flourish in the diocese of Clifton.