Clergy Training Fund Appeal

You can make a donation to the fund through the annual collection in parish, or via the donation page on the Diocesan website here.

The Clergy Training Fund is used to support the formation of Diocesan seminarians, who receive no funding from the state. It also supports the training of Permanent Deacons and the ongoing formation of all Clergy, helping them to grow and adapt in their ministry. Due to the impact of Covid-19, your generosity is needed now more than ever.

Father John Bagnall, Diocesan Director of Priestly Vocations adds:

“The Covid pandemic has affected our ability to collect much needed funds in our parishes during the last two difficult years. Nevertheless, this has been a fruitful time for vocations in our Diocese. In 2020 Fr Jonathan Bowes was ordained priest and in 2021 Fr Luke Wilkinson too was ordained priest for Hexham & Newcastle. Our Diocese is currently blessed to have six men in formation for the priesthood, studying in Rome, Valladolid and Oscott. There are also a number of men discerning a call to priesthood who meet with myself and Fr Shaun Purdy, Vocations Promotor. This summer Rhodie (Bong) Nidea, Gareth Rowe and Carl Watson were ordained as Permanent Deacons. Please pray for them and for more priestly and diaconal vocations in our Diocese.

“It is thanks to parishioners, like you, past and present, that we can support the priests and deacons of tomorrow and ensure the flourishing of our Church.”

To read the appeal letter in full click here, or to make a donation click here.