Richard Reardon

Richard will be available for Funerals and Weddings from the 1st August 2019.

I know grief and the pain of loss from the inside.  In my own life some of the most difficult moments have been shaped and touched by sorrow.  Accompanying people in moments that are deeply personal is always a privilege.  From 2004, I have been officiating at both funerals and weddings, witnessing families devastated by an unknown future without their loved one as well as the joy of a couple stepping out into an unknown future.

Since 2012, I have been a counsellor with various agencies whilst having a small private practice.  As a registered member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists I have witnessed the deep struggle of individuals as they courageously face their life.  I bring this capacity to accompany people in such moments to Mountain Celebrations.

I know how change and readjusting to life is difficult.  For eight years, I studied full time to be a Roman Catholic Priest.  My training took me to different parts of Europe and Africa.  This experience has influenced my ability to recognise the depth of diversity in human life, as well as recognising how we react uniquely as individuals and as a culture to both great joys and great sorrow. In 2012, I left the Roman Catholic ministry and in 2013 received a license to work as a priest in the Church in Wales.  During this most recent time I have been able to establish links with the local community which in turn enabled me to work with the local council in helping welcome and integrate vulnerable refugees into the local community. Building relationships is at the heart of my personal and professional life.  I believe we create and recreate one another. With this viewing point I have joined Mountain celebrations so as to focus my ability to be present to people and share in the privilege of walking alongside them as they prepare for funerals, weddings, naming ceremonies and the possibility of offering counselling.
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At Mountain Celebrations, I look to offer a wide variety of choice for families and couples to personalise the service they require.  With 15 years experience of pastoral ministry and now as a celebrant, I can provide a moment whereby you can shape a service to reflect your spirituality, whether you are of an Anglican, Roman Catholic or other Christian denomination.  I am also very comfortable in supporting families and couples who do not ascribe to any of the above.  What I offer is service, and always from within your frame of reference.  I look forward to the opportunity of being alongside you at these deeply personal moments in your journey.