The quote “Parting is such sweet sorrow, that I shall say good night till it be morrow” is from Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare a play well known to the Parish Priest at St Gregory the Great in Stratford upon Avon. His love of the arts has helped to make him a well-known figure in Stratford upon Avon.  

Father Alex Austin OSB has been the parish priest of St Gregory the Great and Our Lady of Peace since 2010 and departed to start a new role as Guest master at Douai Abbey in Berkshire on Wednesday 18th September.  He is familiar with Douai Abbey having been a Benedictine monk since 1974. Father Alex Austin OSB 74, was born in Birmingham and grew up in Solihull and has known Stratford all his life, having an aunt and uncle who farmed in the area.

On Saturday 7 September 2024 the 5:30pm Mass at St Gregory’s church was offered in celebration for the feast day of St Gregory the Great. Following this there was a farewell party for Fr Alex in thanks for the time he has been parish priest.

In his last parish newsletter he said:

“Dear parishioners,

Departing, I bid you all a fond farewell and thank everyone for the hard work and valuable contribution to parish life over the past 14 years. A huge thank you to the faith in action committee and to all who helped and attended the fabulous farewell party at the school which was marvellous and hugely enjoyable. Many thanks too for your leaving cheque and the many gifts, letters and cards which were all very flattering and gratefully received. 

God bless you now and always. We will pray for each other. 
Father Alex.”
 

Photo Gallery: Mass in Thanksgiving for Fr Alex's Service

Photo Gallery: Fr Alex Austin