A procession led by thurible bearer and cross bearer
The Archbishop is passed his crozier
Archbishop Mark preaching from a pulpit
The parish priest and Archbishop extend hands over the confirmation candidates
A priest attentively listens to the Archbishop preaching
Confirmation candidates presented to Archbishop Mark
The Archbishop anoints Brandan while his sponsor supports him
The Archbishop faces April while holding Chrism
The confirmation candidates hold the bread and wine for the procession of gifts
The Archbishop happily shakes hands with a priest
The Archbishop addresses a group of primary children
The priests enjoy listening to the address for children
The Archbishop addresses a group of primary children
Keen children listen to the Archbishop
The Archbishop addresses a group of primary children
Newly confirmed Brandan with his family, Pastor Gareth and Archbishop Mark
Newly confirmed April with her family, Pastor Gareth and Archbishop Mark
The cake with Heather (baker) and Sr Berenice
Archbishop Mark and the Confirmation Candidates cut the cake
A two-tier cake with a Holy Spirit motif and image of the Church
Small cakes on a platter with a dairy/gluten free sign

On Sunday 26th April 2026, Archbishop Mark O’Toole visited St Mary Magdalene Church to mark the 30th Anniverary of its consecration (30 April 1996). During the Mass he confirmed two young people (Brandan and April) and gave a special address to the pupils from Ss Gabriel & Raphael Primary School who attended. A selection of photos from the event will display above, but you can see more on Facebook.

Special thanks are due to:

  • Sandra Smart-Akande (for taking the photographs)
  • Heather Berry (baking the celebration cake)
  • Staff and pupils of Ss Gabriel & Raphael for coming to sing
  • The Young Disciples team for preparing our Confirmation Candidates
  • Alison Jones for organising catering logistics and historical display
  • Marian Jones for sharing her memories of the parish
  • Jonathan Bowen for sacristy arrangements
  • Mr Lavagna for the new image of St Mary Magdalene, placed in the foyer
  • The many unseen volunteers who keep St Mary Magdalene clean and functional!