mmg.com.au

On the eve of St Andrew’s Day, on one of the hottest November nights, Fr David Valentin was commissioned as the Parish of Central Goulburn’s Priest in Charge by the Diocese of Wangaratta, Vicar General The Venerable Archdeacon John Davis.

Fr Valentin has been filling in as a locum for some months, but has come out of early retirement to take up this role for the next three years.

The church folk of the three Anglican centres of the Parish, St Paul’s Avenel, St John’s Nagambie and Christ Church Seymour flocked together to support the new priest.

Members of the Diocesan clergy led by Archdeacon Alan Jarrad, entered Christ Church and led the procession with colourful pomp, tradition and ceremony.

Pianist Peter Hagen led the hymns and sung Eucharist on the organ and it was marvellous to hear the joyful singing during the service.

The Venerable Archdeacon Alan Jarrad presided over the official proceedings and Vicar General John Davis conducted the Eucharist, gave a thought-provoking sermon and led the congregation through the Commissioning ceremony which was full of tradition and liturgy.

Church wardens Russell Hurren, Diane Grant and David Watson presented their new priest to the Vicar General for Induction on behalf of the parish. During the commissioning the Diocesan Registrar Tim Williams read the Bishop’s license conditions out for the new incumbent then handed it over to Rev Valentin.

Central Goulburn Parish members read the Lessons, Psalm, and Gospel and others brought forward symbols of Christian Ministry and the office of Priesthood to the sanctuary which the Vicar General gave prayerfully to Fr Valentin who responded with thanks.

Fr Valentin said he was only too happy to respond to the welcome given by the speakers, and added he and wife Margaret were looking forward to working and serving the parish and the communities in which they will serve and live.