Today, Bishop Philip Egan, the Chapter of Canons and the Bishop’s Council today offered a Thanksgiving Mass at St John’s Cathedral Portsmouth, for Monsignor Paul Townsend and Canon Michael Dennehy in recognition of their years of service as Vicar Generals to the Lord’s Church and to the Diocese.

Monsignor Paul had been Vicar General, and Head of the Department for Clergy and Canon Michael was Vicar General and the Moderator for the Curia.

The occasion was a wonderful opportunity for all to express their heartfelt thanks to the Lord for their service and demanding work for the Diocese.

Both were eager to stress that they are not retiring, as Monsignor Paul will continue as a Parish Priest in Ringwood and Fordingbridge and Canon Michael is taking a well-deserved sabbatical for a year and will then return to the Diocese.

Two new Vicar Generals have been appointed, Canon David Hopgood and Father James McAuley. Father James will become Dean of the Cathedral and Moderator of the Curia.

Our prayers are with them as they start their new roles.

Photo shows from Left to right: Father James McAuley. Canon David Hopgood, Bishop Philip Egan, Monsignor Paul Townsend and Canon Michael Dennehy.