Mgr Hypher requested that he send the Bishop some background on the forthcoming Convention on 27 November to inform the Induction address.
ParishionerMrs Gavin writes on behalf of the Silver Jubilee committee regarding Fr Grace's 25th anniversary of his ordination occurring on 27 May and the parish celebration on 20 May. The Bishop is invited to attend.
ParishionerCovering letter: Miss D Boxer, on behalf of the executive lay committee of the St Benet's parish, is forwarding the comments on "A Time for Building".
ParishionerSide 1: Writer complains of being omitted from events within Walsingham. This may be as a consequence of an event [unspecified] for which an apology was given and promises made. However the lack of inclusion continues and has been observed generally and she is the subject of gossip. Asks the Bishop to ensure fair treatment.
Side 2: A manuscript oath witnessed by a solicitor regarding the nature of the complaint mentioned in side 1
"Ann", addressing the Bishop as "Alan", writes to offer accommodation for his Visitation in October. However, it will be with their friends as she has a family party to attend in London. An alternative address is offered with her friends whom the Bishop has met. Expects to see the Bishop for a nightcap and will tell him about their pilgrimage adventures.
ParishionerLetter from E Hannigan thanking the Bishop for his visit to their flat. It makes them feel much better in health and faith. Also pleased that Fr Drury is back in the parish.
ParishionerAfter all the uncertainties they are please to have a full-time priest at Beccles / Gillingham. Concerned that the Sign of Peace as practised in Gillingham should remain - all part of the reverent and friendly way of celebrating Mass there.
manuscript annotation: "A/D 25/4/94 - in favour of a reverent sign of peace!"
Bernadette Doyle thanks the Bishop for the beautiful medal and letter.
ParishionerDiscusses the failing health of Fr Sloan and the consideration that he cannot maintain his pastoral duties.
"We would all like to see Fr Sloan continue as Parish Priest for many years as we are very fond of him and wish him well, but if his health is failing and the demands upon him are too great, perhaps the time has come to review the situation."
After much thought the parishioner has written to express his general concern, with examples, for the parish.
ParishionerHuntingdon parish is still being run as two parishes (St Michael's and the Good Shepherd). He asks the bishop to take a look at the parish and decide what is best for it.
ParishionerDescribes domestic and family situation and asks why the church has given his wife a Blessing and let her continue to receive "the Host". Accuses the church od double standards.
ParishionerStunned about the news that Fr Hypher is to leave. The parish needs healing and reconciliation which Fr Hypher's arrival last year could have brought. Whilst have respect for the Benedictines, they do not have the skills nor resources to nurture an active parish. Feels the parish has been let down, but must respect the Bishop's decision.
ParishionerRequest for a papal blessing for a marriage soon to take place in Wiltshire.
ParishionerWishes to repeat last year's successful retreat at Massingham for the "Elders" (a parish group for elderly). Unfortunately it is fully booked - an alterantive is to have it at the Holy Family church. Cannot get a priest but thought a Bishop might do.
manuscript annotation@: "Prelied - in the negative ACC"
Reports that Fr Richmond said the Church Commissioners have consented to passing All Saints as a gift to the Roman Catholics. Writing to support acceptance of the offer. The original suggestion was well received; but disappointment when a different proposition was made.
ParishionerLetter from Mr Hogan inviting the Bishop to the FEPOW Memorial Mass on 13 May 1994. The letter references a press release already sent to a wide range of media organisations. The Knights of St Columba (286) are organising the event.
ParishionerAidan Kelly writes from the Hostel at Sizewell B Nuclear Power station building site hostel. 850 men in the camp and a great many attend mass in Aldeburgh. Could the Bishop arrange for Mass to be said at the Hostel?
ParishionerPersonal views about, and support for, the parish priest
Parishioner