Welcome to the Parish of
Our Lady of The Assumption
&
St Meddan
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A MESSSAGE FROM BISHOP FRANK DOUGAN
AUG 18th 2024
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Dear Sisters and Brothers,
I want to take the opportunity to write to you following a fairly difficult few months. The death of Fr Martin Chambers, the change of Parish Priest, and the subsequent illness of Fr Willie Boyd have affected you in different ways and must have been a bit unsettling to say the least. I would like to personally thank you for the way you have helped and supported each other in these months and for your patience. From the time I arrived here I have been struck by the faith, resilience and goodwill within the Diocese and that has been evident in your parishes. It is a clear sign that we are all in this together.
I am delighted that Fr Willie’s health is improving and that he will return to active ministry when the time is right. We have to make sure that he is patient with himself! I am also grateful for the ministry of the other priests who have stepped in, especially Fr Pat Keegans. And I am also so happy to have been able to welcome Fr Laurent Bahati to the Diocese and to your parishes. He has already been overwhelmed by the welcome he has received and is looking forward to his time with you.
Thank you again for your care for each other and for your priests.
+Frank Dougan​
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Bishop-elect Martin Chambers R.I.P
2023 FR MARTIN CHAMBERS
Father Martin was Parish Priest for only 9months
before being appointed Bishop of Dunkeld. Sadly, Fr Martin died suddenly on 10th April 2024 a few weeks before his episcopal ordination. His funeral took place in the Parish on 29th April 2024 and was concelebrated by Bishop Frank Dougan, Bishop of Galloway, with over 950 mourners attending.
Fr Martin had established the Martin Chambers Ecuador Trust in 2006 to support the lives of those who live in the poorest conditions in Ecuador where he worked on the missions from 2004-2009 before returning to Galloway Diocese.
Father Martin’s Vigil and Requiem Mass was streamed by Galloway Diocese as well as the RC Troon Youtube. Both are still available to view by following the links below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Euj4bEcT8Q
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yr5q5IgPcX0
OR VIA THE PARISH YOUTUBE SITE CLICK HERE
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Lourdes -April 2024- Group 138
MESSAGE FROM FR MARTIN
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"We took the Parish prayer intentions down to the Lourdes Grotto tonight. May God continue to bless the Parish with Easter Hope!"
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"In the midst of an animated HCPT week at Lourdes, I’ve taken a quiet moment down at the Grotto to say thanks to God for all the blessings of Galloway Diocese. Together we have heard God calling us in our families and in our Parishes. As I step out in faith to the Diocese of Dunkeld, may God continue to inspire us. Let us always walk in the presence of God"
CLICK WHITE ARROW TO PLAY LOURDES PICS
CLICK WHITE ARROW TO PLAY (sound on)
BAGPIPES IN LOURDES
CLICK WHITE ARROW TO PLAY
SING-A-LONG WITH FR MARTIN
(sound on)
Archbishop Nolan
Archbishop of Glasgow
Martin’s death is a huge loss not only to his own diocese, and the diocese of Dunkeld where he had been appointed bishop, but for the whole Catholic Church in Scotland.
“When I was Bishop of Galloway I knew him well – a great priest, always welcoming, friendly, with a good sense of humour who worked so hard for his people.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family and those whose lives he touched during these years of priesthood.”
Bishop Frank Dougan
Bishop of Galloway
We give thanks for the selfless service he gave to our diocese; we recognise the enormous contribution he made to support some of the poorest communities in Ecuador and we pray for the repose of his soul.”
“To know Martin was to know a man of love, enthusiasm, humour and a deep faith which enlivened all that he did.”
BE INSPIRED.. .NOT IMPRESSED
Early Day Motion
UK Parliament 18/4/2024
This House recognises Father Chambers' unwavering dedication and tireless service to the community during his 14 years at St Matthew's and Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, as well as his invaluable contributions to other parishes including St Sophia's, where he played a pivotal role in keeping them vibrant; commends Father Chambers for his profound impact on the community, both locally and internationally, particularly through his work in fostering a link between St Joseph's Academy and Ecuador, allowing for cultural exchange and enrichment for pupils from both nations; acknowledges his imminent ordination as Bishop of Dunkeld, a testament to his exemplary character and faithful service; extends heartfelt condolences to Father Chambers' family, friends, and colleagues, as well as the people of Galloway Diocese and the Diocese of Dunkeld, during this time of profound loss; pays tribute to Father Martin Chambers for his selfless dedication, unwavering faith and profound impact on the lives of those he touched; affirms that his legacy of compassion and service will endure in the hearts and minds of all who knew him; and hopes that he will rest in peace.
Our Lady of the Assumption & St Meddan RC Church
CONTACT DETAILS:
for Fr Laurent are the parish house in Prestwick (01292-478068) or by email laurent.bahati@gallowaydiocese.org.uk
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4 Cessnock Road
TROON
South Ayrshire
SCOTLAND
KA10 6NJ
Parish E.mail -
troon@gallowaydiocese.org.uk​
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Induction loop for hearing aid users
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Easy access for wheelchair user
PARISHES OF THE DIOCESE OF GALLOWAY
CHARITY NUMBER SCO10576
TO VIEW PRIVACY STATEMENT AND TERMS OF USE - CLICK HERE