Letter to Parishioners from Fr Martin

Letter to Parishioners from Fr Martin

Dear Parishioners,

I write to share with you some personal news. At the end of this year after Christmas, I will be leaving our parishes to take up a new appointment. After six very happy years in the Diocese of Brentwood – two years at New Hall, two at Grays, and these past three and a half years here in Chelmsford – the time has come for me to return to my home Diocese of East Anglia, where I will continue my ministry.

This has not been an easy process, as my time here among you has been a great blessing. I am deeply grateful for the kindness, generosity, and support you have shown me throughout these years. Your faith, friendship, and commitment to our parish life have made my ministry here both joyful and fruitful. Please accept my heartfelt thanks.

I trust that an announcement will be made soon concerning the new Parish Priest who will begin in January. I know you will offer the same warmth and support to the new priest as you have so generously offered me.

I wish also to express my gratitude to Bishop Alan for his welcome and encouragement during my years in Brentwood, and to Bishop Peter of East Anglia for inviting me to return home to continue serving there.

Be assured of my continued prayers for each of you and for the future of our parishes. Please also keep me in your prayers as I prepare for this new chapter in my priestly life.

With every blessing and my sincere thanks,

Fr Martin
Parish Priest