It was wonderful that Penny King was ordained priest on Saturday (21st June) and celebrated Mass for the first time on Sunday. John has given a good report on the first mass. Here are some of the words from Fr Ian’s sermon:
We rejoice, of course, today, here at this lovely moment because Penny leads this celebration of Mass for the first time. This is simply a very special time, not only for Penny but for us all. We rejoice that someone we have known and loved for many years has made it to this point, to the priesthood. Penny has heard God’s call to priesthood and I am sure we can all agree she has responded with prayer, love, self sacrifice and application. She has overcome setbacks with determination and a relentless good humour, she has allowed herself to be shaped and formed within the church as she has responded to God’s call. Here she is now leading us, conducting us in our rejoicing and I say to you all REJOICE!
All of us here in some way have accompanied Penny to this point – some – her parents for example – have known her longer than she has known herself. Others like myself have had the joy of knowing Penny for the last seven years or so… Some may have known her for a shorter time. Whatever, we all rejoice. We all say well done. We all encourage Penny with our love and prayers.
And so here in this wonderful celebration I say to each and every person here– Rejoice, Rejoice, Rejoice….
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