Ordinations 2008
Reverend Andrew Shaw
On Friday 6th June Andrew Shaw was ordained to the priesthood at Ushaw by Bishop Ambrose Griffiths, Bishop Emeritus of Hexham and Newcastle Diocese.
In his homily Bishop Ambrose welcomed all the people present:
"This is a wonderful and most joyous occasion to which you are all most welcome - Andrew Shaw himself, of course, his parents and all his family, relations and friends both lay and clerical, and fellow parishioners from Ashington; many priests and deacons of the Hexham and Newcastle Diocese who have come to welcome Andrew into their company; the College community of professors, staff and students who have done so much to prepare him; and all who are here."
The college chapel at Ushaw - originally designed by Pugin - was a magnificent setting for the ordination, which was held there as part of the College's 200th anniversary celebrations.
It was a wonderful occasion, and everyone was thrilled to welcome a new priest to the diocese. Bishop Ambrose said:
"You have been chosen for a wonderful way of life which you will find more satisfying and rewarding than almost any other occupation, but it is bound also to involve frustrations, suffering and even danger as St Paul knew so well. But do not be afraid. Christ is with you, he has chosen you to be his close friend and he will never let you down or cease to love your dearly - even if you should ever turn away."
Read full homily (pdf 10k)
Fr Andrew will take up a position as Assistant Priest to Fr. Colm Hayden at St. Joseph’s, Gilesgate, Durham with oversight of St. Godric’s and St. Bede’s parishes, Durham.