A priest of the Archdiocese celebrates 60 years in the priesthood today and has been thanked for his "faithful pastoral service".

A Diamond Jubilee Mass was celebrated at St Philomena's in Winchburgh for Canon John Agnew (82). It was broadcast on Zoom so parishioners and fellow priests could join the celebration (to view, see details at end).

The homily at the Mass was given by Fr Paul Lee who said: "We give thanks for a lifetime of grace that the Canon has instilled for everyone who has encountered him. We thank you for preaching and teaching the Word so effectively in your priestly ministry."

Holy Mass to mark the occasion was streamed from St Philomena's in Winchburgh (Canon Agnew, centre, with Fr Jeremy Bath).

Canon Agnew was ordained by Cardinal Gordon Gray at St Mary’s Cathedral in Edinburgh on 18 March 1961. He first served in Methil, Fife (1961-66) before heading to minister in Nigeria (66-76), where the Archdiocese bequeathed priests to help build up the Church.

Upon returning to Scotland, he served in parishes including Hawick (76-79), Inverkeithing (79-88), Bonnybridge (88- 99) and Fauldhouse (99-09). Since retiring he has resided in Broxburn.

Fr Jeremy Bath, parish priest of Ss Cantius & Nicholas in Broxburn, and St Philomena's, Winchburgh, concelebrated today's Mass. He said: "We give thanks for his dedication to Christ and God’s people.

"Canon John is very grateful for all the prayers, support and kindness bestowed for the Food Relief to the nuns and Mary’s Meals. We are truly blessed to have him amongst us."

Archbishop Cushley sent his congratulations in a video message in which he said Canon Agnew's life was "distinguished by many years of faithful pastoral service to the people of God".

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To watch Diamond Jubilee Mass, click the below link and then type in the passcode

Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/f9cVLNPmwS6NDoNm6eFXX3kRqlDgKU4HYCUiqZR3T9R43UjMAHTx73zcJrEEKDIY.oaeZycN4J_rKbpyw

Passcode: N$K$j*f9