Commemorating 46 Years of Montfort Missionary Service in Scotland

BARRHEAD, Scotland - On Sunday 2nd November 2025, the parish of St. John the Evangelist in Barrhead, Scotland, gathered in thanksgiving to honour 46 years of devoted service by the Montfort Missionary Priests and Religious Brothers who ministered from Montfort House.

Held at the invitation of Bishop John KEENAN, Bishop of Paisley, the celebration followed the 10am Sunday Mass and brought together Montfort Religious, Lay Associates, parishioners, and guests in a spirit of prayer, remembrance, and gratitude. It was a fitting tribute to the missionaries whose presence shaped the spiritual life of the parish and the wider Barrhead community for nearly five decades. After Mass, a commemorative brass plaque was unveiled at the back of the church — a permanent marker of the Montfort Missionaries’ presence from the establishment of Montfort House in 1960 until its closure in 2006. Though the house has since closed, the Montfort spirit remains deeply woven into the fabric of the community — in the lives touched, the friendships formed, and the faith nurtured over the years. The occasion was honoured by the presence of members of the Montfort General Administration and the UK leadership: Fr Dwi WATUN, SMM Superior General; Fr Marco PASINATO, Vicar General; Fr Balaswamy KATA, General Bursar; Fr Richard MAGARARU, UK Referent.

Their attendance reflected the deep appreciation for the legacy of Montfort Missionaries ministry in Barrhead and the enduring bonds between the local parish and the wider Scottish Catholic Community.

Parish priest Monsignor John TORMEY welcomed all with warmth and sincerity. In his address, he paid tribute to the “tremendous contribution” and “wonderful work” made by the Montfort Missionaries, recalling their dedication to sacramental ministry, youth outreach, and pastoral care. His words echoed the sentiments of many who had been shaped by the Missionaries’ presence over the years.

A particularly moving moment came with the attendance of the family of the late Fr James MURRAY, one of the most beloved Montfort Missionaries to serve in Barrhead. Their presence added a personal and heartfelt dimension to the day, reminding all the deep and lasting relationships formed through the work of the Montfort’s in the area.

Following the unveiling, guests were invited into the parish hall for coffee and cakes — a joyful and informal gathering where stories were shared, friendships rekindled, and memories honoured. Many spoke fondly of the missionaries’ kindness, humour, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel.

The brass plaque now stands as a visible sign of gratitude and remembrance — a testament to the faith, service, and love that the Montfort Missionaries brought to Barrhead. Although the Montfort Missionaries are no longer active in Scotland, its legacy lives on in those who were blessed by its ministry.