Dear Fathers, brothers and sisters,
 
Rev Paul Rodgers RIP
 
Paul’s wife Margaret called me to let me know Paul just passed away peacefully this afternoon at home surrounded by his family.  She thanked everyone for their prayers and support.  I assured her of our continued prayers for his happy repose and for the consolation of the family. 
 
I saw Deacon Paul yesterday at home and was able to share with Margaret how he bore his illness in faith and in a way that enhanced greatly our people’s appreciation of and growing attachment to the order of the diaconate. 
 
Fr John Bollan and the Inverclyde clergy, religious and schools were an enormous support to him through his illness and brought together the family of the diocese in a marvellous way in prayer and support of Paul and his family.  They have been a fine example to all of us.  It is this fraternal ministry more than anything that defines our diocese at its best. We keep them in our prayers too.  Paul’s family have been an example of grace and dignity throughout and Paul will have been enormously proud of them.
 
We will let you know of the arrangements when we have them.   May he rest in peace.
 
God bless all,
 
+ John