Thursday 24 November 2011

WE SAY GOODBYE TO BISHOP CRISPIAN HOLLIS

Several parishioners were able to attend the beautiful Mass last Saturday in Portsmouth Cathedral in Thanksgiving for Bishop Crispian.  Despite his recent illness Bishop Crispian was able to concelebrate the Mass with most of his Diocesan Priests including Frs. Danny, Peter and Edwin.  The Liturgy reflected Bishop Crispian's 23 year long Ministry in our Diocese.
'You did not choose me: I chose you and appointed you to go and bear much fruit, the kind of fruit that endures.    (John 15 v.16)

At the Litany of Intercessions there was a Procession of Symbols from Bishop Crispian's time in Portsmouth.  His involvement in the City of Portsmouth was symbolised by the presentation of a Pompey Football shirt!!
At the end of the Mass Mary Dunn thanked the Bishop on behalf of the People of the Diocese and presented him with a gift with our hearfelt thanks.
                                                                                                                        photo and report by Cathy

1 comment:

Gigi said...

So pleased to see Bishop Crispian celebrating his dedication to Portsmouth and the obvious respect and affection felt for him in the Diocese and beyond. As a visitor, I've "met" Bishop Crispian once at Lymington; I was sat opposite Peggy Walsh with my face full of cake when he came over to chat with her. He was extremely gracious and seemed to have a genuine smile or word for everyone. I was so sad to hear about his illness and deeply moved by his recent account of his annual pilgrimage to Lourdes this year. It's very humbling to hear him describe his illness as a gift from God and a "moment of grace". I add my prayers to everyone's at OLMSJ for Bishop Crispian's long, happy and inspiring retirement.