Father Alan Finley Returns to Salisbury to Mark 50 Years of Priesthood

On Sunday, 27 July 2025, Father Alan Finley returned to Salisbury to mark the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood, celebrating the 11 am Mass at St Gregory’s Church, part of St Osmund’s Catholic Parish.

Father Finley, who served in Salisbury early in his ministry as an assistant priest at St Osmund’s in the city centre, is now retired but remains actively involved in pastoral life. Alongside a number of retired priests in the Diocese of Clifton, he continues to supply in parishes across the diocese when priests are away on holiday, sick leave, or retreat.

His return to Salisbury was warmly welcomed by over 200 parishioners, some of whom remembered him from his earlier years of service in the city. After Mass, the community gathered in the parish hall to celebrate this special milestone. Father Finley was presented with a beautifully decorated cake baked by local person, Janis Terry, and enjoyed reconnecting with old friends and meeting new members of the congregation.

Reflecting on the occasion, Father Finley said,

“I remember being here many years ago as an assistant priest at St Osmund’s, and I’m delighted to return and find the Catholic Church in Salisbury still very much alive. It’s been wonderful to reconnect with old friends and parishioners.”

He added, “I’m especially grateful to my good friends Bernie and Jane Dench who always offer me warm hospitality when I return to the area. Thank you to all the people of Salisbury for helping me celebrate this special Mass and milestone in my priesthood.”