Norfolk parish priest,
Father Richard Wilson, who was honoured by the Pope, has died at the Norfolk
& Norwich University Hospital three weeks before his 80th birthday.
A long-serving priest at
Costessey, he was also a
Roman Catholic contributor to the
EDP's Church Viewpoint column for more than 20 years.
He also served as finance officer for the
Diocese of East Anglia and in June 1994, he was made
Monsignor, which carries the title of a
Prelate of Honour.
Born in London, he was ordained priest in March 1964 and then served as a curate at the
Cathedral Church of St John the Baptist, Norwich. He also served at
St Edmund's, Bury St Edmunds, Slough in
Berkshire, St Lawrence's, Cambridge, and
St Mary's Church, Ipswich. He then returned to Norfolk when he was appointed to
Costessey, where he was regarded with great affection by young and old. His mission was to make the church more central and relevant to the broadest community.
Father James Walsh, who is parish priest at St John's, said: “He had a quiet but very effective ministry of counselling into which he brought his considerable wisdom, compassion and kindness. A lot of people will remember that. He was very much of the community. His sermons were like his writings, combining entertainment with a serious message. He will remembered by his brother priests for his kindness and his sharp wit, which enlivened many a gathering,” he added.
A requiem mass will be taken by the Bishop of East Anglia, the Rt Rev Michael Evans, on Wednesday, August 4, 11am.
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