On Tuesday Ann and I went to the Institution and Induction of The Revd. Father William Obedoza as Vicar of St. Barnabas, Woodford Green. Father Williams appointment ends an interregnum which has gone on for over 3 years. During that time the parish has been cared for by retired priest Father Donald May with assistance from other local priests (including me). The service was conducted by the Bishop of Barking and the Bishop of Richborough who preached a really first-class sermon. As this parish is under Royal Patronage the Crown was represented by the Deputy Lieutenant of Redbridge. Amongst the congregation were the Mayor and Mayoress of Redbridge, The Consul General of the Philippines Embassy, the local MP Lee Scott, the Police and Fire Brigade and many clergy, friends and members of Deanery Chapters and Churches, members of SSC, and the St. Barnabas Congregation. Father William’s training incumbent Father David Waller was present with Father Robert Page who are both now members of the Ordinariate and it was good that they felt able to be present and robe to support Father William. Afterwards it was good to see so many friends at the reception.
Yesterday evening I celebrated Mass for the Redbridge & Havering Ordinariate Exploratory Group.which was attended by 12 with 2 apologies. We discussed the recent happenings at General Synod and in the USA.
Today I celebrated and preached for the lunchtime Mass at the Ilford Hospital Chapel.
Given all that happened during the interregnum I'm rather surprised that the Bishop of Barking was there.
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