On September 29th 2026, the Feast of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, the Diocese of Shrewsbury gathered in joyful prayer as two of her sons — Conor Jones and Eamonn Kennedy — were formally admitted as Candidates for Holy Orders in a solemn Mass celebrated at our national Seminary, Oscott College.
✝️ Here I Am — Send Me: Conor and Eamonn Admitted to Candidacy for Holy Orders
Diocese of Shrewsbury | Vocations
On September 29th 2026, the Feast of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Conor Jones and Eamonn Kennedy — were formally admitted as Candidates for Holy Orders in a solemn Mass celebrated at our provincial seminary, St Mary's Oscott.
What Is the Rite of Admission?
Before a man can be ordained to the Diaconate or the Priesthood, the Church asks the candidate for a public act of free and conscious self-gift. The Rite of Admission to Candidacy is that act — a liturgical moment in which a man formally declares before God, the Bishop, and the whole Church his desire to offer himself for Holy Orders.
What Comes Next?
Admission to Candidacy is one milestone among several on the path to ordination. In the months and years ahead, Conor and Eamonn will receive the Ministries of Lector and Acolyte, before being ordained first to the Diaconate and eventually, God willing, to the Priesthood.
Each step is deliberate. Each step is a deeper configuration to Jesus Christ, the Eternal High Priest.
Pray for Them
The Diocese of Shrewsbury is under the patronage of Our Lady Help of Christians and St. Winefride. It is fitting that we entrust Conor and Eamonn to these powerful intercessors as they walk the demanding and beautiful road ahead.
Pray for them — that they grow in holiness, in courage, and in love. And pray for the Diocese, that God will continue to raise up men willing to say, as Isaiah said before them:
"Here I am. Send me." (Isaiah 6:8)
To enquire about seminary formation and vocations in the Diocese of Shrewsbury, please contact Fr Sean Davidson
🙏 Deo Gratias.
