Father Noel celebrates diamond jubilee

Father Noel trained for the priesthood at the Scots College in Rome and was ordained in St Andrew’s Cathedral, Glasgow, on June 29 1964.

He spent the first part of his ministry in Glasgow Diocese before coming to Arran in 1996. He has since become a respected and well-loved figure on the island with people of all faiths and none.

In his homily, Father Noel said that when he was in Rome he was inspired by Pope John XXIII and the establishment of the Second Vatican Council. He said he and many of his contemporaries were hopeful reform and change would follow.

He expressed his disappointment these have been slow in coming. However, he believes Pope Francis has re-ignited the desire for change, reform and reconnection with the people of the church.

Father Noel hopes to be in Rome later this year, when the outcomes of the Synod on Synodality will be known.

At the end of mass, Father Noel was thanked by Angela Ellis and presented with a gift from friends and parishioners by Philomena Campbell. Many of the 80-strong congregation stayed behind for tea, coffee and home baking.

In recognition of the milestone, Bishop Brian McGee celebrated mass at Holy Cross Church with Father Noel Colford last Sunday.

After mass, Bishop Brian spent time talking to parishioners and visitors. He later attended the Arran Churches Together Songs of Praise service at Sandbraes, Whiting Bay.