Canon Michael Loughlin returned to St Charles Borromeo for an evening thanksgiving Mass on Sunday 23rd November 2025. Parishioners gathered to welcome him back with genuine warmth and gratitude. His visit offered the parish an opportunity not only to thank him in person, but also to recognise and record the breadth of his priestly ministry across the Diocese of Middlesbrough. For those who remember his eleven years in Hull, and for those who have joined the parish since, it was an occasion to reflect on a life of steady, faithful service.

The Mass was celebrated by Canon Michael himself, assisted by St Charles’ parish priest Fr Phil Cunnah, together with Fr Michael Marsden, Fr David Grant and Fr David Standen. A large congregation gathered for this beautiful liturgy, which marked the solemnity of Christ the King. Canon Michael made the feast the centre of his homily, reflecting with depth and clarity on the kingship of Christ and its meaning for Christian life today. The choir supported the celebration wonderfully, voice and organ combining with clarity and depth, enhancing the liturgy and bringing a distinguished reverence to the whole celebration.

Canon Michael then presented Fr Phil Cunnah with a beautifully framed 1853 Roman relic of St Charles Borromeo, displayed together with its original papal authentication certificate. Having received it himself, he now generously gifted it back to the parish as a lasting part of St Charles’ heritage. For a full report on this remarkable relic and its history, see the news item below.

Canon Michael had been ordained for the Diocese of Middlesbrough, beginning a priesthood marked from the outset by gentleness, calm authority and a consistent pastoral presence. His early years were spent in several parishes, and those first appointments gave him a wide experience of ministering in both large and small communities. From the beginning he showed a pastoral style that was thoughtful and measured, with a gift for listening and guiding without drawing attention to himself. His approach to preaching was reflective and rooted in prayer, and he quickly became known as a priest people trusted, particularly in times of illness, bereavement and family difficulty.

As the years progressed he served widely throughout the diocese, offering dependable leadership wherever he was sent. His ministry reached from urban centres to rural towns, and in each place he became known for his approachable manner and a gentle humour that immediately put people at ease. His care for the sick and housebound became something of a hallmark; he was the sort of priest who would always find time for a visit, however busy the day had been. Alongside this pastoral work he gave strong support to Catholic education, working closely with governors and school communities to ensure that Catholic schools under his care were able to flourish in their mission. His commitment in these areas, and the respect he earned among his fellow clergy, led to his appointment as a Canon of the Cathedral Chapter.

His period as Parish Priest of St Charles Borromeo in Hull left a lasting impression on the parish. Those who were here during his tenure often recall the sense of steadiness he brought. His liturgies were reverent and peaceful, his homilies sincere and thoughtful, and his pastoral care deeply appreciated by families of all ages. He was a regular presence with the sick and elderly, and he offered quiet reassurance to many who sought his guidance.

His relationship with St Mary’s College was particularly valued; he supported the school’s Catholic life with commitment and integrity, ensuring that the parish and the college remained closely connected. His time at St Charles has remained a warm memory for many parishioners, and his return for the thanksgiving Mass was met with real affection from those who knew him.

In more recent times, Canon Michael became Parish Priest of English Martyrs in York, a large and active parish with a rich history. In York he has continued the same steady pastoral approach that had characterised his earlier ministry. The parish valued his calm presence at the altar, his careful pastoral judgement, and the sense of respect he showed to everyone from schoolchildren to the oldest parishioners.

His work brought him into close contact with local schools, the Bar Convent community, and a wide range of lay groups. Families preparing for the sacraments often sought him out for guidance; he had a gift for making people feel at ease and for offering reassurance rooted in faith rather than formality.

Canon Michael’s contribution extended well beyond the parishes he served. His long experience meant he was regularly involved in diocesan liturgies and larger celebrations, including services in historic sites and gatherings that required both pastoral sensitivity and liturgical expertise.

He continued to support Catholic education at a diocesan level and was a steady, trusted figure among clergy and lay leaders who valued his balanced and thoughtful counsel. He offered his ministry without fuss or self-importance, preferring quiet service to public recognition.

In 2025 he reached the Ruby Jubilee of his priesthood, marking forty years of ministry. It was a significant milestone, not only for him, but for the many people whose lives he had touched. Over those decades he had celebrated baptisms, guided children through preparation for First Communion and Confirmation, witnessed marriages, comforted grieving families and supported countless individuals through the most important and often the most difficult moments of their lives.

His priesthood had unfolded steadily, marked not by dramatic gestures but by a reliable dedication to the sacraments and to the people entrusted to his care.

His return to St Charles for the thanksgiving Mass brought these memories vividly back into focus. Many came simply to thank him: for his leadership during his years in Hull, for the kindness he had shown in moments of personal difficulty, and for the quiet spiritual guidance he had offered during his time here.

Others wished to express appreciation for the example he had set through a lifetime of priestly service—an example rooted in modesty, faithfulness and pastoral commitment. Even for those who had joined the parish after his departure, the warmth with which he was received spoke clearly of the place he still holds in the life of St Charles.

The evening’s gathering allowed parishioners to offer their gratitude, but it also provided a moment to recognise the enduring significance of his work. Canon Michael’s priesthood has been a steady witness to the value of quiet faith, patient service and trust in God’s presence in ordinary life. His ministry has shaped communities in Hull, York and across the Diocese of Middlesbrough, and it continues to be remembered with respect and affection.

Story: John Maffin
Images: Margaret Mcknight
23rd November 2025