On Saturday 17th December, Fr Michael Winstanley celebrated his 50th Anniversary of Priestly Ordination. Fr Gerry Briody SDB and The Rt Rev John Arnold, Bishop of Salford Diocese also presided in the celebration service.

Many people came to celebrate from all corners of the Salesian Family, with those not able to attend in person, joining through a livestream on Facebook.

At the conclusion of the Mass, Bishop John expressed his thanks to Fr Michael before presenting him with an Apostolic Blessing from the Vatican.

After Mass, the celebration continued with Lunch and speeches, recounting Fr Michael's priestly journey. Fr Gerry Briody SDB, Fr Jim O'Keefe, and Fr Michael himself. Andrea O'Callaghan, headteacher at Thornleigh, presented Fr Michael with a canvas print of one of his favourite photographs.

Above are some photos from the day. There are more on our Flickr page which you can find here

Photos © SalesianLink/DEARDEN