Seminarians gather with Bishop for Christmas event

In Poringland, seminarians and Bishop Peter Collins celebrated a special Christmas event, highlighting the unity and spiritual journey of East Anglia’s future priests.

On December 22, 2023, a special event took place in Poringland, where seminarians congregated with Bishop Peter Collins. The gathering was marked by a Mass celebrated by Bishop Peter, followed by a shared lunch.

Fr Peter Wygnanski, Private Secretary to the Bishop, reflected on the importance of these gatherings. He stated: “It is always such a joy to gather at these Christmas seminarian gatherings, which I remember fondly from my own time as a student for the priesthood. As our seminarians are discerning and preparing for the priesthood in many different places, the chance to spend time together is most precious, a chance to encourage each other, encourage those who are applying for formation for the priesthood, and reconnecting with the newly ordained. It was a particular gift to speak via Zoom, as a group, with Dominic Nyathi in South Africa this year. The Holy Spirit evidently continues to stir the hearts of young men towards the gift priestly vocation and we all pray that more will be open to the possibility of receiving it.”

This day in Poringland stands out as a poignant reminder of the communal and spiritual bonds that hold the Church together, particularly among those preparing for the priesthood. It underscores the role of such gatherings in fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among seminarians, especially during the festive season.

Pictured above, from the left, are Fr Jude Belnas, Fr Pat Cleary, Adam Dodd, Anthony Reilly, Dcn Anthony Asomugha, Matthew Allen, Bishop Peter, Peter Ho, Fr Bienn Carlo, Fr Mark Ashwood, Thomas Dobson and Fr Peter Wygnanski.

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