Tuesday, March 22, 2016

A crisp, bright morning...

...and Spring sunshine in Westminster Cathedral piazza as a long procession of  white-robed priests from across the diocese  made its way up Ambrosden Avenue, and made a wide sweep acros the front of the Cathedral before entering through the main door. A rather fine sight, and tourists standing next to me asked "What's it all about?" and  were rather moved when I explained that each of these priests would given the sacred oils, blessed in the ceremony they were about to attend, to take to anoint the sick, and use in baptisms, in the parishes, hospitals, and prisons where they minister...

Every year, I find the Chrism Masses I attend more impressive and touching. Westminster Cathedral was full to overflowing - seats in every side-chapel full, people crammed at the back, pressed against the walls and door to allow the procession space to make its way round.

We had our usual "THANK YOU TO OUR PRIESTS" placard, and Patti Fordyce, chaiman of the Association of Catholic Women, had produced some exceptionally attractive "thank you" cards with a picture of the Last Supper and some words (from St Maximilliam Kolbe) about Holy Communion.

And you can read more about it all here...

1 comment:

Tony Flavin said...

As a deacon it is an utter joy to see you, Patty and your darling chums outside St George's Cathedral before the Chrism Mass.

If any deacon asks where there thsnks are, remind them whst the Chrism Mass is about and invite them to help you hand out the cards.

You and the other ladies are treasures for doing this.