IN MAY 1987 Father John O’Donnell celebrated the golden jubilee of his ordination to the priesthood.

Parishioners and clergy, from a month old baby to a venerable abbot, gathered at St Peter’s Church in Cirencester, where Father John had been priest for 34 years, for high mass and for the celebrations to begin.

Assisting were 22 other priests and the service was relayed by video link to an overflow congregation in the church hall, such was the level of interest in wishing him well.

Later, a reception for 200 people was held at the Royal Agricultural College. Among the guests were Father John’s sister, Sister Joseph Mary, the Mayor of Cirencester, Cllr Michael Grace, and local ministers of other religious denominations.

The speakers included the vicar of Cirencester, Canon John Lewis, and Mr Cyril Barton on behalf of the Rotary Club, to which Father John belonged for many years.

To the delight of his listeners, Father O’Donnell replied with wit and panache as he received gifts from friends, family and parishioners. 

On the following Sunday, neighbours and residents in St Peter’s Road held a street party in his honour.