Monsignor May, a beloved Hallam priest who faithfully served St. Mary Magdalene’s parish, Maltby for forty years, marked his 100th birthday yesterday with a joyful and deeply moving Mass of celebration at the Immaculate Conception Church in Herringthorpe. The church was filled to overflowing with parishioners and members of the Maltfriscan Catholic community, who hold a special place in Monsignor May’s heart. The liturgy was beautiful, with priests travelling from across the country to honour him. Among them Bishop Ralph, who presided, together with Fr Dominic, Monsignor Mark Crisp, Shaun Smith, Fr Lee Marshall, Fr Craig Elliott, Fr Chris Brookes, Fr Patrick,
Fr Christian and many more. Monsignor May himself preached the homily, speaking tenderly of the love of Christ, the love beyond all knowledge, love revealed in the pierced heart of Jesus on the cross. It was a day of profound thanksgiving: gratitude for everyone who gathered, gratitude to the gentle and loving Father whom we praise in the First Eucharistic Prayer, gratitude for the Son, the Holy Spirit, and the gift of our gentle Mother Mary. After Mass, the celebration continued with a buffet and a beautiful two-tier birthday cake, photos, and a heartfelt chorus of “Happy Birthday,” which may have tired him out, only because of the great love surrounding him. What a grace-filled occasion to honour monsignor May, a wonderful priest of Hallam whose wisdom, serenity, and prayerful love for Jesus have inspired so many.
God bless you, Monsignor May.
We keep you in our prayers.
Suzanne
Chaplain
