Parish Priest
Canon Paul Millar
Archbishop Mark O’Toole appointed Canon Paul as Parish Priest of St. Alban’s, Pontypool and St. Felix, Blaenavon. Canon Paul took up his appointment and celebrated his first Mass in Pontypool Parish on the 9th September 2023.
Deanery Mass 20th June the Feast of Ss Alban, Julius and Aaron
During Holy Mass on Thursday 20th June, the feast of Ss. Alban, Julius and Aaron Canon Paul Millar was formally installed as Parish Priest of St. Alban’s . Brethren from across the Deanery concelebrated Mass. Fr. Daniel Stanton (Our Lady of the Angels & St. David’s Cwmbran), Fr. Richard, (Newport), Fr. Peter McLaren, Canon Nicholas James (St. Mary’s Monmouth & St. Frances of Rome Ross on Wye).
The clergy processed into a very full church to ‘ All are Welcome’. Mass of Christ the Saviour was sung. Children from Padre Pio Primary School filled the organ gallery while the choir of St. Alban’s High school occupied all the rear pews.
The Rite of Installation followed Canon Nicholas’ moving homily. Canon Paul professed his faith and affirmed his commitment to his duties. Canon Paul took the Oath of Fidelity and assumed the Office of Parish Priest. The Dean, Canon Nicholas James, then questioned Canon Paul and the people present who affirmed their responses with the help of God. All present united in prayers for Canon Paul.
The Parish Priest, Canon Paul, was led to the Presidential Chair by the Dean, Canon Nicholas James, who invited him to be seated. Shortly after Canon Paul, Parish Priest, continued to celebrate Mass inviting all to stand for the Bidding Prayers. After prayers Canon Nicholas handed the tabernacle key to Canon Paul.
The Offertory Procession consisted of pupils from Padre Pio accompanied by the choirs who lead the Offertory hymn, ‘Come to the Feast of Heaven and Earth’. After Holy Communion St. Alban’s choir harmonised, a capella, the beautiful Song of Peace, Dona Nobis Pacem.
Canon Paul led the Concluding Rites and Dismissal. The clergy processed out of the church to the Recessional Hymn, ‘Christ be our Light’.
All gathered in the hall after Mass and parishioners past and present along with friends from the Deanery parishes enjoyed catching up with each other. The ladies from the UCM provided beverages and a mouth watering buffet which included an array of delectable cakes.