On the Feast of the Visitation, 31st May, Fr Pat celebrated 40 years as a priest. Mass was celebrated at 2pm at Our Lady’s Church in Acomb, York, followed by a party in the church grounds.

Several priests concelebrated the Mass and Canon Michael Ryan, in his homily, praised Fr Pat’s many qualities. He had been the Deacon at Fr Pat’s ordination 40 years previously and they had become good friends.

The schoolchildren from Our Lady’s School sang for Fr Pat, who in turn sang some Scottish songs as part of the entertainment. There was also a piper playing many Scottish tunes and everyone sang with great gusto. Fr Pat’s 93 year old Dad really enjoyed the piper as he had been one in his younger days.

Many people helped to make this a memorable event and friends from other places joined with parishioners to wish Fr Pat many more happy years. He was presented with a cheque to mark this occasion and the sun shone beautifully all through the day. God bless you, Fr Pat.

photos courtesy of Ross G Keane and Margaret Snowden