Deep end ordinations

The Salesians in Great Britain have a long history, more than a century long.  However, Salesians are no more in all those places which were once flourishing apostolates.  Tomorrow another place looked after by Salesians is being handed over to the diocese: Kent, Glouster.  Haven't been there myself but am told that Fr Aidan who is now aged and moved into a retirement home has been the parish priest of that place for the last 22 years.  Fr Sean who willingly and joyfully drove down there on weekends has been associated with the place for 40 years or so.  Am sure it must be hard on both of them to say goodbye to all the people, and henceforth be associated with the place only through memories.

Am told that the Salesians here in Great Britain once had a house and community at Shrigley.  For several years it was the theologate of the province or at least had students at that place.  Salesians are no more in Shrigley.  The house was given up and is now some sort of a resort or hotel.  What was once the church is now a swimming pool... with the walls and outer structure left intact!  So the confrere narrating this tells me that at the 'deep end' of the pool several were ordained!!  That's were the sanctuary was.  And the place where several confreres received their orders, including ordination.  The confessionals have been turned into sauna booths!  Talk of visits to the Church for health and nourishment.

The Shrigley Hall Hotel - erstwhile Salesian theologate!