Lostock Hall priest says farewell

Fr Xavier Ho OSB, parish priest of Our Lady of Lourdes and St Gerard Majella, Lostock Hall, is leaving after 15 years.
Fr Xavier Ho OSB. Photo by John Robinson.Fr Xavier Ho OSB. Photo by John Robinson.
Fr Xavier Ho OSB. Photo by John Robinson.

Fr Xavier Ho OSB, parish priest of Our Lady of Lourdes and St Gerard Majella, Lostock Hall, is leaving after 15 years.

He said farewell at a service, which had the Mayor South Ribble, Coun John Rainsbury, amongst invited guests.

Bishop John Arnold of Salford was the Chief Celebrant.

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Fr Mark, also parish priest of the neighbouring St Mary’s, Brownedge, now also assumes the role for Our Lady of Lourdes and St Gerard Majella. He will be assisted by Fr Joseph Gee, as priest administrator, and Fr Joseph, will be resident at St Gerard’s Presbytery.

The readings were by parishioners, Michael Cronin and Grace Robinson, and the bidding prayers were read by parish sister, Sr Louise Shields.

Prior to the solemn blessing and dismissal, presentations were made to Fr Xavier on behalf of the parish, including a laptop, kindle and MP3 player, together with a hand-made banner, depicting the story of the Three Trees from Our Lady and St Gerard’s RC Primary School.

A spokesman for the parishioners said: “The parish wishes Fr Xavier its prayers and best wishes for the future, gives thanks for the many years of service by the Benedictines, and welcomes Fr Mark and Fr Joseph and looks forward to working with them over the coming years.”

Photo by John Robinson.