Juventutem Scotland

32 seminarians tonsured the same day

2011-12-15T12:00:00.002Z

On 22nd October 2011, 14 and 18 seminarians were tonsured in each of the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter's two seminaries, making it 32 altogether: the largest number of ‘tonsurati’ in the history of the Fraternity. Among them were three from the United Kingdom: Revs Krzysztof (originally from Poland), Alex, and Mark. The latter reports on the ceremony in Bavaria.

In the Old Testament the tribe of Levi had no inheritance to call their own; they had no land to pass on to their sons. According to God's merciful plan they were accorded forty-eight cities to dwell in – scattered amongst the other tribes – but this was for their maintenance; they had no "heritable property" as we would know it today. And yet, having nothing, they had everything, for "the Lord God of Israel Himself" was their possession (Jos. 13:33).

So it is for the cleric. He is singled out, set apart – after a particular call from the Lord – to bring sacrifice to the Lord. Living in a spirit of poverty, he has – like the Levites – nothing material to give. Rather he brings the offerings of others, and above all he brings himself to be offered. Thus with a joyful heart I, and thirteen of my confrères, prayed the immortal words from Psalm XV– "The Lord is the portion of my inheritance and of my cup: it is thou that wilt restore my inheritance to me" – and received the clerical tonsure on October 22nd in Lindau, on the shores of Lake Constance in Bavaria, from His Excellency Vitus Huonder, Bishop of the neighbouring diocese of Chur (Zurich) in Switzerland.

In a moving ceremony, the Seminarian is "called forward" to receive the tonsure, where he answers "adsum", that he is present and ready; he is prepared. The Seminarian having donned the collar, soutane and cincture privately in the Sacristy – the collar representing Christ's yoke, and the cincture chastity – the Bishop proceeds to cut five locks from the Seminarian's hair in the form of a Cross, at the same time reciting the above verse from the Psalter in Latin. Then the Surplice – the cleric's particular garb for Liturgy (the Soutane being his everyday clothing, it must be remembered) – is "imposed" onto the Seminarian, with the prayer that the Lord will make him a "new man, created by God in justice and the sanctity of Truth" (c.f. Eph. 4:24).

Whilst the Code of Canon Law now recognises the clerical state only with the conferring of the Diaconate, the ceremony of Tonsure and Clothing as Clerics makes us such liturgically and „existentially‟. One may not yet canonically be a cleric, but for us, and for the eighteen further Seminarians who received the Tonsure on the same day in America, a very visible change has taken place. To the world we look like clerics, or – not knowing any better – we are mistaken for Priests, and we are confronted with a new identity each time our reflection is seen in a pane of glass or a mirror. Is it really me there? Yes, and – trusting in God's call – I will continue to "put on" My Lord each day, and suffer for His sake. (Though, most encounters are positive, because – even in today's "Godless" society – people recognise a commitment as such.)

And so began my second year as a Seminarian for the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter. After a first, "probationary" year, the very visual ceremony and change from civil clothes into always dressing like a cleric, is one that strikingly confirms that one is continuing in formation. With six years still "to go", there is plenty time to become used to the soutane, and also to be formed by it. After all, our formation here is not only academic, as Pope John Paul II noted in the Apostolic Exhortation "Pastores Dabo Vobis", but must also encompass human, pastoral and spiritual formation. And even a piece of clothing contributes to that (though, having been blessed by the Bishop, our Soutanes are also sacramentals!).

The Seminary formation here follows the model prescribed by the Council of Trent while conforming to the Ratio Studiorum of the Holy See. The first year, probationary in nature, is a year of spiritual formation, during which the candidate becomes disciplined in a community life of prayer and penance. The next two years comprise a thorough grounding in thomistic philosophy, during which the Seminarian also continues studies in Latin, scripture, and Gregorian chant, already begun in first year. This is then followed by four years of theological studies, during the last of which one is on placement as a deacon.

Already in the first year there were many challenges to be met: dealing in a foreign language "all day, every day" has its initial frustrations but immense benefits. After years of disuse my childhood German had become very rusty, and I prepared for entering the Seminary by going "back to school", to night classes. That said, the first few weeks were daunting as the artificial environment of my Hometown University could only prepare me so far, and I found many gaps: the language of philosophy being somewhat different from that of the holidaymaker or business traveller.

The daily régime of the Seminary is also demanding, but very rewarding: the day centres around the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and the Hours of the Divine Office (the Breviary). By 6:25am Seminarians are in the Church praying Lauds in choir, this is then followed by silent mental prayer and then the community Mass. Likewise, Seminarians gather in the chapel for Sext (midday prayer) and Vespers, or Rosary in common, or Adoration and Benediction, and again in the Church for Compline (night prayer). The rest of the day is made up of classes and tasks and chores. Despite there being two mandatory recreation periods, one after lunch and one after the evening meal, the day seems full-packed and in second year it does not show any signs of slowing down!

That said, the daily rhythm bears for me a great deal similarity to that one finds in, for example, a Benedictine monastery. By that I mean that there seems a healthy mix between all the aspects of life necessary for formation: not one seems to rule at the expense of the rest. There is work and study, time for silence and then time to talk, private prayer and contemplation, public liturgy and outreach; all has its right place. This follows the succinct maxim of the Middle Ages: "in medio stat virtus", virtue lies in the centre. Hence, whilst the life can be hard at times, there is a real sense of reward and valuable work, especially when one looks to the goal: the Catholic Priesthood. I cannot presume to second-guess the Lord's divine plan for me, but should it be that He wishes me to be His Priest, then here is the place to realise that end. And so I am reminded of the prayer of the cleric each day he dons his Surplice: "Clothe me, O Lord, in the new man, who is created by God in justice and the sanctity of truth".

(originally published in Downry, no. 12 (Autumn 2011), magazine of the FSSP in England)

Vocation discernment weekend / Altar servers' weekend

2011-10-31T14:31:00.000Z

Vocation discernment weekend, at St John Fisher House in Reading on 16-18 December 2011:

For Catholic men between 18 and 35 years of age (under 18 please contact us).

Starts on Friday 16th December 2011 at 6pm – ends on Sunday 18th December 2011 mid-afternoon. Led by Fr Armand de Malleray, FSSP.

Location: St John Fisher House is the residence of the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter in England & Wales.

Address: 17, Eastern Avenue, Reading, RG1 5RU, England.

Access: 27mn from London Paddington by direct trains up to every 10mn, and from London Waterloo. Direct trains from Oxford, Bournemouth, Bristol, Newcastle, York, Birmingham, Gatwick Airport, Southampton Airport, etc. Direct 'RailAir' buses from Heathrow to Reading train station every 20mn. Motorway: M4.

Limited overnight accommodation: please book now.

Programme: Spiritual conferences, socials, Holy Mass each of the three days (Extraordinary Form of the Roman rite) including polyphonic Sunday Mass, silent prayer, private talk with Fr de Malleray, FSSP. Fr de Malleray will explain what a vocation is in general and to the priesthood in particular. Read here the Holy Father's recent Letter to seminarians. Extract: "The proper celebration of the Eucharist involves knowing, understanding and loving the Church's liturgy in its concrete form. In the liturgy we pray with the faithful of every age – the past, the present and the future are joined in one great chorus of prayer. As I can state from personal experience, it is inspiring to learn how it all developed, what a great experience of faith is reflected in the structure of the Mass, and how it has been shaped by the prayer of many generations."

Cost: no set price for students or unemployed – any donation welcome; others: £50 suggested.

New: our special Vocations flyer and videos on www.fssp.org.uk/england/pages/vocations.

~~*~~

Altar servers' weekend (residential): at St John Fisher House in Reading on 18-20 November 2011:

For single Catholic men between 18 and 35 years of age (under 18 please contact us).

Starts on Friday 18th November 2011 at 6pm – ends on Sunday 20th November 2011 mid-afternoon. Led by Fr Armand de Malleray, FSSP.

In a convivial atmosphere, come and learn (or improve) how to set the vestments and sacred items before Mass and to serve Low Mass and Benediction. EF Mass on the Friday evening, Saturday morning and Sunday morning. Fr de Malleray will give explanations on the liturgy.

Limited overnight accommodation: please book now. Non residential participants welcome.

Cost: no set price for students or unemployed – any donation welcome; others: £50 suggested.

Lanherne Convent appeal

2011-09-06T10:58:00.001+01:00

by Dr Joseph Shaw

I too have received the same e-mail as Fr Sean and Fr Ray Blake.

The Sisters of the Immaculate at Lanherne have for ten years occupied a convent owned by the Carmelites. This is not odd for them as they are unable to own property. However the Carmelites have announced that they wish to put the convent on the open market, unless... well, unless the Sisters can come up with something.

They are a thriving community who use Traditional Mass the 1962 Breviary. They are a sister order to the Friars of the Immaculate, who have a base in Stoke and two of whom accompanied the LMS Pilgrimage to Walsingham.

Please pray for a solution to be found. The community is unique in the British Isles and if they lose the convent they will have to return to Italy. The order, and the community at Lanherne, is international.

If we English Catholics can't find a home for these sisters who want to devote their entire lives to praying for us, then I say we do not deserve the conversion of England for which we all long.

(reposted from LMS Chairman blog)

Ordination of new Bishop of Aberdeen

2011-08-14T16:50:00.001+01:00

Fr. Hugh Gilbert, former Abbot of Pluscarden will be ordained Bishop ofAberdeen at St Mary’s Cathedral, Aberdeen on Monday 15th August.

From the Episcopal Ordination Bishop Hugh Gilbert will become the leaderof the geographically largest diocese within the UK. He spent 37years as a contemplative monk, and was Abbot of the PluscardenAbbey, near Elgin.

Speaking before the ceremony, Bishop-Elect Hugh said:"It is a privilege and a joy to be asked to serve the Church, and thewider community, in the beautiful diocese of Aberdeen, where I havealready lived as a monk for 37 years. I am grateful for the warm welcomegiven me, and, trusting in the grace of the Holy Spirit, look forward toworking with others for the building-up of the Body of Christ."

The retiring Bishop of Aberdeen, Bishop Peter Moran, said:“I am very pleased to welcome Bishop Hugh Gilbert as my successor. Hisrich spiritual experience will guide the people of the diocese in thatsearch for personal holiness on which Pope Benedict has laid such stress.After nineteen years as abbot, his fatherly leadership skills will supportand empower the clergy of the diocese in their often isolated pastoralappointments. I am confident that I am passing our diocese to an excellent successor and I wish Bishop Hugh every blessing.”

Bishop Moran added:“neither Pluscarden Abbey nor its Abbot are remote from the pressures andconcerns of the contemporary world, which so much needs God, and needs toknow god’s love. Hugh Gilbert’s wide-ranging friendships and contacts willensure that the Diocese of Aberdeen remains very much in touch with ‘thejoys and hopes, the griefs and the anxieties’ of the Church and the worldof today.”

The President of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland, Cardinal KeithO’Brien, said:“The Bishop is aware more than most Bishops of the need of the Diocese ofAberdeen having been a monk in this Diocese for so long. He himself as awilling servant of this Diocese already has been willing to travel onsupply to various parishes in the Diocese and his Monastery has presented an opendoor to priests, religious and people of the Diocese of Aberdeen andindeed people who come seeking advice and help from all over our countryand throughout the world."

Cardinal O'Brien continued: "Through his very beautiful writings, manybased on the addresses to his community at Pluscarden, he has had amaginificent outreach in helping to build up the spiritual lives ofothers. And because of the outreach from his own monastery to othermonasteries throughout the world he realizes the needs of those incountries which are less prosperous than our own."

The Cardinal concluded: "One might say that a new Bishop for Abrdeen could not have had a betterpreparation than to have been the Abbot of Pluscarden Abbey within thisDiocese, for such a period of time, before his call by Pope Benedict XVIto be the Bishop.”

Congratulations also came from the former Bishop of Aberdeen,Archbishop Mario Conti, who said:“I am delighted that Abbot Hugh has been chosen to be my second successoras Bishop of Aberdeen. He is a wise and holy man who knows the diocesewell and who is much respected by the people and the priests.”

Archbishop Conti concluded: “I had the joy of ordaining him priest and soit will be a special pleasure to be there when he is ordained a bishop.”

(source: SCMO)

New Release: bilingual Diurnale Romanum

2011-08-03T11:57:00.002+01:00

A new release for all friends of the traditional Roman liturgy: Fr Ramm of the FSSP's Apostolate in Thalwil announces a new edition of the 1962 Diurnale Romanum. This edition, newly typeset is bilingual: german-latin, in a clear two-column format.

The new edition is available for pre-order, and will be shipped in mid-August. Available with or without zippered cover, prices start at 80,- CHF / 60,- € (approx. $103 / £63).

For more information, including order form, please see www.introibo.net/diurnale.

Redemptorists on Feast of St Alphonsus

2011-08-03T09:56:00.002+01:00

Yesterday, the Feast of our Holy Father Saint Alphonsus, was a very special day for us since we also had a final profession, temporary profession and two clothings!

The four candidates present themselves before the superior.

With Our Lord enthroned within the tabernacle and the doors open, Br. Xavier Maria, F.SS.R. kneels before His Divine Majesty and pronounces his final vows of Poverty, Chastity and Obedience together with a vow and oath of perseverance.

Br. Xavier binds himself with his hand upon the Holy Gospel.

Br. Alfonso, also kneeling before Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament pronounces his temporary vows of Poverty, Chastity and Obedience for three years. He received his complete religious name: Br. Alfonso Maria of the Star of the Sea, F.SS.R. Brother had spent some years as a sailor before he joined the Transalpine Redemptorists.

At the time of first profession, brother receives his pallium, or, mantle.

Our two postulants preparing to be clothed in the habit of the congregation. On the left Mr Tyler Lunsford and on the right Mr Arden Mills, both from the United States.

Exuat te Dominus veterem hominem cum actibus eius,
et induat te novum, qui secundum Deum creatus est
in justitia et sanctitate veritatis.

May the Lord strip thee of the old man with all his acts and
clothe thee in the new, who is created by God in justice
and in the holiness of truth.

The new Brothers receive their habits.

Indue, Filii Dominum Jesum Chrisum, semper
mortificationem ejus in corpore tuo circumferens.

Son, put on Our Lord Jesus Christ, always surrounding
thy body with His mortification.

Accipe, Fili, imaginem Crucifixi, Magistri et Redemptoris tui,
qui passus est pro te, et tradidit Semetipsum pro te. Pone Illum
ut signaculum super cor tuum, ut signaculum super brachium
tuum.

Receive, my Son, the image of the crucifix,
image of thy Master and Redeemer, who suffered for thee and
offered Himself for thee. Place it as a seal upon thy heart, as a
seal upon thy arm

The first step towards leaving the world! Today we have seen all three:
These young men leave the secular life and enter the novitiate.
Br. Alfonso completes his novitiate and makes his temporary vows.
Br. Xavier, after three years of temporary vows takes the final step and gives himself to religious until his death.

Accipe, Filii, Rosarium beatæ Virginis Mariæ, quæ tibi sit semper murus ad protegendum, mater ad nutriendum, stella ad dirgendum, portus ad salvandum. Tu autem stude diligenter Mariam diligere et imitari, ac ejus saluberrimam devotionem ubique propagare. In periculis, in angustiis, in rebus dubiis, Mariam cogita, Mariam invoca. Dulce nomen illius non
recedat ab ore, non recedat a corde.

Receive, Son, the Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may She always be a wall to protect thee, a mother to nourish thee, a star to guide thee and the door to thy salvation do Thou, however, learnest diligently to love and imitate Mary, and to propagate Her most salutary devotion everywhere. In dangers, in anguishes, in doubtful things, think of Mary, call upon Mary. May Her sweet name not disappear from thy lips, nor disappear from thy heart.

Accipe hunc habitum benedictum precans sanctissimam
Virginem, ut eius meritis illum perferas sine macula, et te ab
omni adversitate defendat, atque ad vitam perducat æternum.

Receive this blessed Scapular and beseech the Blessed Virgin
that through Her merits, you may wear it without stain. May
it defend you against all adversity and accompany you to
eternal life.

With the reception of the skull cap comes the new name:
Mr Tyler Lunsford is now Br Seelos after Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos, C.SS.R.
Mr Arden Mills is now Br Peter after St. Peter the apostle.

Congratulations to Br Peter and Br Seelos!

And to Br Xavier Maria and Br Alfonso Maria!

Br Seelos with his mother and father and three brothers.

And Br Peter with his father.

Mr de Jarving, a friend of Br Alfonso, entered as a postulant today.

Br. Xavier Maria and Br. Magdala Maria, both from the Pacific Islands.

(reposted from Transalpine Redemptorists at Home)

First Mass of Fr Marek Grabowski FSSP

2011-08-03T09:05:00.002+01:00

by Dr Joseph Shaw

Fr Marek Grabowski FSSP made news with his ordination in Poland, this being the first traditional ordination since 1970. He is well known to the English Traditional Catholic community, as he has often visited Reading and was a member of staff at the St Catherine's Trust Summer School in 2007. It was wonderful to see him back here again as a priest. He celebrated Mass with the assistance of Fr Armand de Malleray FSSP as deacon, and Fr Simon Leeworthy FSSP as subdeacon.)

I have never seen St William of York so full. There were people crowded at the back, the extension had about 30 people in it, and of course there was the choir in the choir loft. In all about 120 people. (No, Paul Inwood, not the 'same 30 people' in Portsmouth diocese people going to more Masses than before, but four times that number at St William of York alone.

Afterwards Fr Grabowski gave 'first blessings'.

More photos here.

(reposted from LMS Chairman blog)

2nd Latin Mass Society Walking Pilgrimage to Walsingham

2011-08-03T09:03:00.001+01:00

You are invited to the second Latin Mass Society walking pilgrimage for the conversion of England. We will be walking from Ely to Walsingham from 26th to 28th August 2011. This is a bank-holiday weekend.

Pilgrims will meet in the evening of Thursday 25 August at St Ethelreda's Catholic Church, 19 Egremont Street, Ely, CB6 1AE. The pilgrimage will begin with the Traditional Mass in St Ethelreda's Catholic Church on Friday morning.

There will be a sung Traditional Latin Mass each day and Confession will be available throughout the pilgrimage.

Mass on the second day will be in the private chapel at Oxburgh Hall. This is a c15th moated manor house which is still the home of the Bedingfield family who built it nearly six hundred years ago. Oxburgh Hall was a recusant house in penal times and has a priest hole. The pilgrimage will conclude with Mass at Walsingham on Sunday afternoon (in the Chapel of Reconciliation, the 'barn-like' building next to the Slipper Chapel!). Pilgrims will have the chance to visit the Slipper Chapel as well.

This pilgrimage is open to all ages and to families.

We want to encourage as many families to attend this pilgrimage as possible. For that reason we have secured indoor accommodation for each night. The indoor accommodation is for use by women and children. Women and children are also free to camp if they wish. Camping is compulsory for men, although this will be indoors on the Friday night.

For more information, including pricing, how to apply, and frequently asked questions, please see here.

Young Catholic Adults National Weekend 2011

2011-08-03T08:59:00.003+01:00

by Damian Barker

During the weekend of the 9-11 September 2011. Young Catholic Adults will be running a retreat at Douai Abbey, it will be led by Juventutem Ecclesiastical Assistant Fr de Malleray . The weekend will be full-board.

YCA will have half of the retreat centre to itself
There will be a Marian Procession, Rosaries, Sung Mass, Low Mass, Confession and socials
Fr. de Malleray FSSP head of Juventutem will preach the retreat, Masses will be in the Extraordinary form

Prices range from £5 to £51 per person per night . There are 3 options

THE MAIN GUEST HOUSE

Friday , registration from 4pm, to Sunday 11th September (full board)* or
Arrive Saturday morning till Sunday or day only
51 pounds full-board PER PERSON PER NIGHT
25 pounds for students/low waged/unwaged (or whatever you can afford) PER PERSON PER NIGHT

THE COTTAGES

£35 PER PERSON PER NIGHT (full board). Self catering £25 per person per night (reductions for students:- or whatever you can afford) .

SELF CATERING CAMPING

£5 PER PERSON PER NIGHT (or whatever you can afford - please bring your own tent and food ).

If you would like lunch on Sunday 11th then it will be an extra £7 each.

How to book - limited places so please reserve your place early

To reserve your place FOR THE WEEKEND (no deposit needed if you are coming for the day on Saturday), please contact the Guestmaster direct and send a 20 pound deposit (NON RETURNABLE) to Brother Christopher Greener OSB, Douai Abbey, Upper Woolhampton, Reading, Berks. RG7 5TQ (please make any cheques payable to Douai Abbey). Please mention how long you wish to stay and any special diet.

For general enquiries about the weekend:- or any queries about the accommodation/location/lifts required please ring Damian Barker on 07908105787 or 01452 539503.

(for more info, see here)

Helping in the Horn of Africa

2011-07-20T14:10:00.002+01:00

"Cor Unum"
is the Holy Father's Charity.

Horn of Africa

Yesterday the Pontifical Council Cor Unum warned that
hundreds of thousands of people in the Horn of Africa
are at risk of dying due to a lack of basic necessities
caused by drought and violence.

This council, which oversees the Church's charity work,
noted Benedict XVI's appeal on Sunday.

"Around 10 million people are suffering, and hundreds of thousands of refugees risk dying because of a lack of basic necessities. Somalia and northern Kenya are the worst struck areas."

The drought is the worst the area has seen for 60 years.
The last official famine was in 1984-85,
when about 1 million people in Ethiopia and Sudan died.

South Somalia is controlled by Islamic fundamentalists
who until last week had banned aid agencies from the area.

The Pope appealing for the Horn of Africa last Sunday.

The Holy Father already sent a €50,000 ($70,000) donation
through Cor Unum
to the apostolic administrator of the Somali capital, Mogadishu.
The Apostolic Administrator Bishop Giorgio Bertin
is directly involved in bringing assistance to the people affected.

The Holy Father speaks.

We invite you to send donations to the Holy Father's Charity -
The Pontifical Council Cor Unum:
How to do it:
The bank details below are from the Cor Unum website:

Bank transfers in Euro (€) from outside Italy:

Pontifical Council "Cor Unum"
Account Number: 603035
Bank: Banco Posta, Poste Italiane S.p.A.
Bank Address: Viale Europa, 175; I-00144 Rome, Italy
BIC-SWIFT Code for Poste Italiane S.p.A: BPPIITRRXXX

(Please provide your name and address,
as well as where you wish the funds to be sent,
so that your gift can be properly acknowledged.)

Bank transfers in other currencies from outside Italy:

(US Dollar USD, Australian Dollar AUD,
Canadian Dollar CAD, British Pound GBP,
Swiss Franc CHF, Japanese Yen JPY):

Pontifical Council "Cor Unum"
Account Number: 603035
Bank: Banco Posta, Poste Italiane S.p.A.
Bank Address: Viale Europa, 175; I-00144 Rome, Italy
BIC-SWIFT Code for Banca Popolare di Sondrio: POSOIT22XXX

(Please provide your name and address,
as well as where you wish the funds to be sent,
so that your gift can be properly acknowledged.)

Donations in any currency can also be made to:

Pontifical Council "Cor Unum"
Account Number: 101010
Bank: Banca di Roma
IBAN Code: IT93 J 03002 05008 000000 101010
SWIFT Code: BROMITR1204

(Please provide your name and address,
as well as where you wish the funds to be sent,
so that your gift can be properly acknowledged.)

In the UK
donations large and small to relieve the famine
through the Holy Father's charity "Cor Unun"
may be sent to the Apostolic Nuncio
at the following address:

Most Reverend Archbishop Antonio Mennini
Apostolic Nunciature
54 Parkside
Wimbledon
London, SW19 5NE

(reposted from Transalpine Redemptorists at Home)

Evangelium 2011

2011-07-18T19:16:00.002+01:00

by Dr Joseph Shaw

It is still possible to book places at the Evangelium Conference taking place at the Oratory School near Reading, 5th – 7th August 2011, for young adults (18-35).

Here is a list of the participants:

Rt Rev. Mark Davies - Bishop of Shrewsbury
Steve Ray - World famous Catholic evangelist and former Baptist
Dr Caroline Farey - Head of the Maryvale Institute Catechetical Team
Fr Jerome Bertram - Oratorian and writer
Sr Roseann Ready - Founder of the Sisters for the Gospel of Life
Dr Andrew Nash - Expert on Bl. John Henry Newman
Dr Joseph Shaw - Philosopher at Oxford University
Fr Ed Tomlinson - Priest of the Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham
Joanna Bogle - Broadcaster, writer, author of Feasts and Seasons
Jaime Bogle - President of the Catholic Union
Fiorella Nash - Catholic novelist
Edmund Adamus - Director of Pastoral Affairs for Westminster Archdiocese
Fr Thomas Crean OP - author of A Catholic Replies to Professor Dawkins
Fr Marcus Holden - Co-founder of St Anthony Communications; co-author of Evangelium
Fr Andrew Pinsent - Oxford University Theology Faculty, former particle physicist at CERN

The Reading Oratory School was founded under the supervision of John Henry, later Cardinal Newman, in 1859, and is today one of the top independent boys' schools in the United Kingdom.

Price: £95 (full board)

Further information

Email: evangeliumproject at gmail.com

Yes, I will be there, and on past form so will the Extraordinary Form of the Mass. It promises to be a very interesting event.

Gregorian Chant for Beginners in Orkney

2011-07-18T19:07:00.000+01:00

Mr Ben Whitworth of the Orkney Schola will be teaching an evening class, 'Gregorian Chant for Beginners', starting on Wednesday 28 September, and running until Wednesday 23 November (with a break on 9 November) in Orkney. The course will be held at the King Street Halls, Kirkwall, under the auspices of the Council's Community Learning Programme.

Full details will be available soon, but please mark your diary now! More information will be found on the Schola's blog at orkneychant.blogspot.com.

New Usus Antiquior Mass in St Andrews

2011-06-01T19:26:00.000+01:00

by Shawn Tribe

On Sunday 8th May 2011 students at the University of St Andrews - Scotland's first University and the third oldest in the English speaking world - were privileged to be able to attend the third celebration of Holy Mass in the extraordinary form in St Andrews since the motu proprio. A Missa Cantata was sung by Fr John Emerson FSSP in St James' Parish Church with the generous permission of the chaplain and pastor, Fr Andrew Kingham, and the ongoing support of the local archbishop, Keith Patrick Cardinal O'Brien. Fr Emerson travels to St Andrews on the second Sunday of each month to say Mass at 5pm, with the students making every effort to provide the proper ceremonies and music to the highest possible standards. On this occasion Fr Emerson was assisted by a team of four student servers and was accompanied by a quartet of student voices singing parts of Victoria's Missa O Quam Gloriosum and motets by Viadana and Palestrina. The introit was sung to a setting by Pitoni. There were over forty people in attendance, the vast majority of whom were students.

The church, which celebrated its centenary last year, was funded in great part by John, third Marquess of Bute, whose taste for marble is clearly present in its beautiful design.

(reposted from The New Liturgical Movement; photo: Matthew Hudson)

New DVD - "Men Apart"

2010-12-27T12:36:00.002Z

Des hommes à part
Uploaded by deshommesapart. - Discover more webcam videos and video blogs.

Who are they, these men dressed in black, wearing a cassock in the world as a sign of their belonging to God? Where do they come from, with their youth breathing eternity? What do they say to the world of tomorrow, which makes everyone feel cared for?

"I'm thirty-five years old. I have been a priest of the Fraternity of St. Peter for ten years now, having given myself to God to better serve mankind. An ordinary life? No. Each day brings new joys and incredible experiences. Bringing God to the world today is a real adventure, physical as well as spiritual. I am as happy now as when I first made my choice."

"You did not choose me, no, I chose you; and I commissioned you to go out and to bear fruit, fruit that will last; so that the Father will give you anything you ask of him in my name. My command to you is to love one another." (Gospel according to St. John, 15:16-17)

~~*~~

In the summer of 2008, two directors, Yvon Bertorello and Eddy Vicken - Marcel Jullian Prize 2010 winners for their documentary "Watchers in the Night" - and a team of cameramen and sound engineers observed the various ministries of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter around the world.

Their goal? To make a movie for television, presenting the life of priests and seminarians today. Who are these men, mostly young, who give themselves totally to Christ and whose life poses many questions and sometimes criticism? To answer this question, this documentary, titled "Men Apart" looks for the first time at the heart of their community, revealing a few secrets of their lives.

More than a year of filming was required. We travel the world, discover the Seminary at Wigratzbad, and follow the lives of student-priests. See the anniversary of the Fraternity in Rome in their personal parish, attend a priestly ordination, see daily parish life of priests in France, and even in the distant missions of Colombia.

Several more months were needed in studio for editing, cutting the footage, recording in Prague with an original score written by Thierry Malet, subtitles in five languages, - english, french, german, italian, spanish - and a commentary with the famous voice of Michael Lonsdale.

~~*~~

English-language enquiries to:
fssp_dvd@catholic.org

Price: £20 / €23 , including postage and packaging in Europe.

upcoming events - December

2010-11-25T18:56:00.000Z

(TBC)

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

upcoming events - November

2010-10-25T18:56:00.003+01:00

Saturday 13 November
Vespers of the Dead (for Remembrance Sunday)
4.30pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

Tuesday 16 November

Solemn Sung Mass for the Feast of St Margaret [OF]

7.30pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

Sunday 28 November (last Sunday of the month)
Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 11.30am Mass (Extraordinary Form),
St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

upcoming events - October

2010-09-25T18:56:00.007+01:00

Saturday 1 October
Holy Mass
11.00am, ruins of Cambuskenneth Abbey, near Stirling

Saturday 9, Sunday 10 and Monday 11 October
Creator of Heaven and Earth - talk by the Kolbe Institute

2pm, Saturday 9 October, Holy Ghost Fathers, 117 Newarthill Road, Carfin
3pm, Sunday 10 October, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Balornock (Glasgow)
6.30pm, Monday 11 October, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Edinburgh

Saturday 30 October
First Vespers for the Feast of Christ the King
4.30pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

Sunday 31 October (last Sunday of the month)
Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 11.30am Mass (Extraordinary Form),
St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Mass at Martyrs' Shrine before Hyde Park Vigil

2010-09-10T21:36:00.001+01:00

by Fr Tim Finigan

Fr Armand de Malleray FSSP will offer Mass in the usus antiquior at Tyburn Convent on Saturday 18 September at 2pm, before the Papal Vigil in Hyde Park. The Mass will be offered for the conversion of England and will be celebrated in the Crypt which houses the Martyrs' Shrine and many relics of the English Martyrs, as well as artefacts associated with Catholic life in penal times. The picture above shows the altar in the Crypt chapel with the altar surrounded by a replica of the triple gallows at Tyburn from which many of our martyrs were hanged.

Tyburn Convent is just along Bayswater Road from Marble Arch. (Postcode W2 2LJ) Google map.

The FSSP have a registered group (now full) but will also have a second, unofficial group which will stay in the immediate surroundings of the official area to pray. For further information, contact Lauren Mills

The Vigil proper starts at 6.15pm and the Holy Father is expected to arrive about 7pm. The vigil ends at about 9pm.

(reposted from The Hermeneutic of Continuity)

Novena for Benedict XVI’s visit to Britain starts

2010-09-07T19:32:00.002+01:00

by Anna Arco

Parish novenas for the Pope’s upcoming visit to Britain begin today.

The Magnificat booklet of liturgies and events recommends a brief time of silent prayer followed by the prayer of preparation after Mass for the success of the visit, nine days before the visit. There is a more extended version which suggests using readings taken from the lectionary and divine office sections for the Chair of Peter and the feast of St Peter and St Paul or to simply use readings from chapters 14 to 17 of the Gospel of St John.

As another alternative, the book recommends that faithful prepare for the papal visit with evening prayer from the Divine Office or Exposition and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament outside of Mass.

The prayer of Preparation follows here:

God of truth and love, your Son, Jesus Christ, stands as the light to all who seek you with a sincere heart.

As we strive with your grace to be faithful in word and deed, may we reflect the kindly light of Christ and offer a witness of hope and peace to all.

We pray for Pope Benedict and look forward with joy to his forthcoming visit to our countries. May he be a witness to the unity and hope which is your will for all people.
We make our prayer through Christ our Lord.

Amen.
Our Lady, Mother of the Church pray for us.
St Andrew pray for us.
St George pray for us.
St David pray for us.

To access the full Magnificat booklet online, go to the papal visit website to download it.

A novena is a customarily Catholic devotion which stretches over nine days and can range from a small prayer every day to a full rosary.

(reproduced from The Catholic Herald Online)

BBC biased against Christianity

2010-09-05T17:23:00.001+01:00

Cardinal Keith O'Brien has accused the BBC of "institutional bias" against Christianity. He said that mainstream Christian views had been marginalised by the corporation, and that a forthcoming BBC documentary about the Pope's visit, would be a "hatchet job". A spokeswoman for the BBC said the corporation refuted the allegations "absolutely".

In an interview with the Sunday Times, Cardinal O'Brien said: "detailed research into BBC news coverage of Christianity in general and Catholicism in particular, together with a systematic analysis of output by the Catholic Church, has revealed a consistent anti-Christian institutional bias.

"This week the BBC's director-general admitted that the corporation had displayed massive bias in its political coverage throughout the 1980s, acknowledging the existence of an institutional political bias."

St Margaret's Schola takes a summer break

2010-09-04T18:32:00.003+01:00

After singing every week for the Edinburgh International Festival Fringe, the St Margaret Schola is now taking a well-earned break from singing and will be back in the late Autumn. The Schola's monthly Vespers have moved to Saturday evenings at 4:30pm. There will be no weekly practices until further notice.

The calendar of events has been updated for October and November and can be viewed here.

Please contact the schola via email at edinburghschola at gmail.com, or telephone (see link) if you would like to sing with us, to arrange for us to sing at a liturgical event, or to find out about more planned events for Autumn/Winter.

upcoming events - September

2010-08-25T18:56:00.002+01:00

Tuesday 28 September 2010
Protest against End of Life Choices (Scotland) Act
9.30am, outside Scottish Parliament, Abbey Strand, Edinburgh

Sunday 26 September (last Sunday of the month)
Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 11.30am Mass (Extraordinary Form),
St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

One day retreat with Gregorian chant

2010-08-16T17:40:00.002+01:00

Haughland House Retreat Centre Shapinsay
charity no. SC036313

Desert Wisdom
“Every single day make a fresh beginning”

Saturday August 28 10.30-4.30
(9.45 ferry from Kirkwall 4.45 back)

Ben Whitworth will share his experiences of Monastic traditions, his knowledge of the Desert fathers and he will also teach us some Gregorian Chants.

An informative, relaxing and Creative retreat.
£15 plus shared lunch
To Book a place Contact Lesley on 711750 or
Email lesleymckeown at hotmail dot com

Cardinal attacks US over Lockerbie bomber reaction

2010-08-08T08:31:00.003+01:00

The leader of the Roman Catholic Church in Scotland has made an outspoken attack on the United States over the release of the Lockerbie bomber. Cardinal Keith Patrick O'Brien said the Scottish government was right to free Abdelbaset Ali al-Megrahi last year on compassionate grounds. He backed the Scottish Government's decision not to give evidence to American senators investigating Megrahi's release.

(read more at BBC News)

upcoming events - August

2010-07-25T18:56:00.010+01:00

Saturday 7 August
Latin Choral Vespers
4.00pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

Sunday 8 August
Compline by Candelight
9.00pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

Monday 10 August
Requiem Mass [OF]
7.00pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh
Centenary of the birth of the late Cardinal Gordon Joseph Gray, our previous Archbishop

Saturday 14 August
Solemn Pontifical Vespers
4.00pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

Sunday 15 August
Compline by Candelight
9.00pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

Friday 20 August
The Promise of the Promised Land
(talk by Elias Chacour, Archbishop of Galilee)
7.30pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh (info)

Saturday 21 August
Latin Choral Vespers
4.00pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

Sunday 22 August
Compline by Candelight
9.00pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

Saturday 28 August
Day Retreat at Haughland House, Shapinsay (Orkney)
for more information contact Ben Whitworth, the Orkney Schola

Sunday 29 August (last Sunday of the month)
Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 11.30am Mass (Extraordinary Form),
St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

Sunday 29 August
Compline by Candelight
9.00pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Convent needs Sisters, Sisters need Convent

2010-07-23T17:10:00.003+01:00

by Fr Tim Finigan

Joseph Shaw at the LMS Chairman's blog has news from the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate. They are appealing for benefactors to help them start a new community in Darlington. If you have the funds, you could own a beautiful building and do a good work for the Lord in letting the Sisters use it for its proper purpose. The photo above is of the sisters at Lanhearne and is from Joseph Shaw's flickr set. Here is the information from Lanhearne:

Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate, Lanherne Cornwall

DARLINGTON CARMEL (one of the very early Carmels to be established in England [1830]) is up for sale. The very few remaining sisters are soon to move out. At Lanherne we have known about this for several months and we have been to visit the establishment. Wonderful for our needs! The Sisters are not going to leave Lanherne, in fact another house is needed as a new foundation. The Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate have a goodly number of vocations; especially sisters who at the moment belong to the “active” branch who have a vocation to the contemplative life. So another contemplative house is needed. There is a major problem. Yes, you’ve got it! The FSI have no money and the Carmelites at Darlington require one and half million pounds. If you know Darlington and the Carmel then you will be surprised that it’s going for only £1,500,000. It’s large and fine, in good order and a Grade 2 listed building.

So we are looking for a benefactor. Franciscans cannot own property and therefore a possible benefactor would continue to own the Carmel and would let the FSI use it – or a trust could be set up. It is possible that with a serious bit of thinking other activities may be considered - retreats etc. ALL is possible. May I remind you that the FSI use ONLY the 1962 liturgical books. A centre for traditional Catholics in the north of England would be a great help to many people.

Please pray that a benefactor or a group of benefactors may be found.

Please contact me and let me know your thoughts.

Father Joseph M Taylor
Lanherne Convent
St Mawgan
Newquay
Cornwall
TR8 4ER

(reposted from The Hermeneutic of Continuity)

upcoming events - July

2010-06-25T18:55:00.004+01:00

Sunday 25 July (last Sunday of the month)
Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 11.30am Mass (Extraordinary Form),
St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

Monday 26 July
Solemn Vespers and Benediction for Sts Joachim and Anne
6.45pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Video from the First Mass of Fr. Harkins in Edinburgh's Cathedral

2010-06-09T18:50:00.001+01:00

by Shawn Tribe

Some video footage has now been released from the first Mass of Fr. Simon Harkins, offered in Edinburgh's St. Mary's Cathedral in the presence of Cardinal O'Brien.

There is also a video of the entrance procession. (Many thanks to A Wandering Oblate)

(reposted from The New Liturgical Movement)

Polyphonic Mass of thanksgiving for the ‘Year for Priests’

2010-06-08T19:57:00.001+01:00

On Saturday 12th June 2010, 3pm, at St James’s Church, Spanish Place, 22 George Street, London W1U 3QY - kindly welcomed by Parish Priest Fr Christopher Colven - newly ordained British priest Fr Simon Harkins, FSSP will offer his first Solemn High Mass in England (in the Extraordinary Form of the Roman rite).

On this occasion, the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter (FSSP) is pleased to invite you to pray in thanksgiving for the graces granted by God during the last 12 months of the ‘Year for Priests’ in response to the many prayers offered for the sanctification of priests and for priestly vocations worldwide and in Great Britain in particular.

Clergy: choir dress. Music: Tomás Luis de Victoria’s ‘Missa Simile est regnum coelorum’ and his ‘Gaude Virgo Maria’ motet.

After Mass, Fr Harkins will give individual First blessings.

Refreshments will follow.

Nearest underground: Baker Street, Bond Street.
Nearest car park: Welbeck Street Mscp, 74-77 Welbeck Street, London W1G 0BB - Distance: 0.22 km, 0.13 mi - Opening hours Monday-Sunday: 24 Hours – Daily tariffs: 1 Hour £ 5.00; 1 To 2 Hours £ 10.00; 2 To 3 Hours £ 15.00; 3 To 4 Hours £ 20.00; 4 To 5 Hours £ 25.00; 5 To 6 Hours £ 30.00.

Please come and give thanks for a new British priest (formed according to the usus antiquior).

First Mass of Fr Simon Harkins

2010-06-06T18:47:00.001+01:00

reposted from Transalpine Redemptorists at Home

Today in Edinburgh Cathedral, Father Simon Harkins, F.S.S.P. celebrated his first Mass in his home country and home town. The Mass was celebrated in the presence of His Eminence Keith Cardinal O'Brien, who also preached at the Mass. It is the first time a Cardinal has assisted at a first Mass in the extraordinary form in his own cathedral. Below are lots of photos - too many to caption - but they are fairly self explanatory:

Father Harkins before Mass.

Very Rev. Fr Josef Bisig, F.S.S.P was assistant priest.

Rev. Fr. Anthony Mary, F.SS.R. meets the Cardinal.

(source)

Official Photos from 2010 Pèlerinage de Chartres Pentecôte

2010-05-25T20:22:00.002+01:00

by Shawn Tribe

arious photos, unofficial and official are coming in from the 2010 Pentecost pilgrimage of Chartres, organized by Notre-Dame de Chrétienté.

The first official photos have now been made available. Here is a selection.

(reposted from The New Liturgical Movement)

upcoming events - June

2010-05-25T18:55:00.008+01:00

Thursday 3 June
Missa Cantata for Corpus Christi
7pm, Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Balornock, Glasgow (info)
6.15pm, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (info)

Saturday 5 June
First Solemn High Mass of Fr Simon Harkins FSSP
1pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

His Eminence Keith Patrick Cardinal O'Brien will be in attendance and will preach the homily. This is the first time in the UK and possibly in the world that a Cardinal Primate will attend a First Mass in the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite in his own diocesan cathedral and preach for the occasion.

Saturday 5 June
Day Walk Of Historical, Literary, Ecclesiastical & Natural Interest
9.30am, Newtown St Boswells, Scottish Borders (info)
walk in aid of "Keeping the Door Open" - Edinburgh University Catholic Chaplaincy

Thursday 24 June
Solemn Vespers and Benediction for the Nativity of St John the Baptist
6.45pm, St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh

Sunday 27 June (last Sunday of the month)
Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 11.30am Mass (Extraordinary Form),
St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Society of St Tarcisius - Sodality of Traditional Altar Servers

2010-05-18T18:43:00.004+01:00

On Saturday 15th May 2010, at Blackfriars, Oxford, a newly founded Sodality of Servers of the traditional Latin Mass (“extraordinary form”) was inaugurated. This took place in the context of a training day for experienced altar servers, arranged by the Latin Mass Society of England and Wales, who were seeking to improve their understanding of the ceremonies of sung solemn mass. Thirty servers were present at the event, with the training being delivered by Fr Armand de Mallerey FSSP, Br Lawrence Lew OP, Mr David Forster, and Mr Richard Hawker.

The new Sodality has been founded at the request of numerous servers of the traditional Mass, who desired a society that would encourage them in their work on the altar, provide training for both new servers and the more experienced, promote a high standard of reverent and exact service, and form a network through which servers can stay in touch and share resources.

The Sodality is sponsored by the Latin Mass Society of England and Wales, though membership is open to those from other countries who may wish. It has taken as its patron St Tarcisius, a Roman acolyte who was martyred during one of the fierce persecutions of the third century, while defending the Holy Eucharist from profanation. The Sodality has taken “Fidelis usque ad mortem” – Faithful even unto death – as its motto, and seeks to inculcate in servers an intense devotion and reverence to Our Lord in the Eucharist, as well as a precise attention to the ceremonies of Mass.

A website for the Society has been inaugurated – www.saint-tarcisius.org.uk – where further details will be found. Anybody wishing to join the Sodality should contact the Secretary, Mr David Forster, at secretary at saint-tarcisius.org.uk.

Photographs of the training event on Saturday can be seen at http://www.lmschairman.org/2010/05/server-master-class-report.html

Note: efforts are also being made to co-ordinate interests in membership from Scotland. If you live in Scotland and are interested in membership, please leave a comment, or email Mark Miles at markadm at catholic.org

(Photo: Joseph Shaw)

Orkney - Little Splinters from the Cross

2010-05-15T09:27:00.013+01:00

On Friday the news broke - courtesy of Damian Thompson of The Telegraph - that the Bishop of Aberdeen, the Right Reverend Peter Moran had blocked Una Voce Scotland's plans for a Solemn High Mass in St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall. St Magnus Cathedral dates back to 1137! For readers abroad: St Magnus Cathedral is one of those beautiful pre-Reformation Churches up and down Scotland, which are now in the care of the (presbyterian) Church of Scotland.

Father Z soon picked up the story too, as did even 'Anglo-Catholic' bloggers! Having known about this setback for a while, and conscious that stories often grow arms and legs, I worried that the truth might not necessarily 'out', but rather be confused by what people think the truth is.

Let's sum up the facts:

Una Voce Scotland, as a group dedicated to preserving the Gregorian Chant and the traditional form of the Roman rite, often arranges for Masses in pre-Reformation sites - they must be pre-Reformation, because that means they were once consecrated Churches of Catholic worship;
In this instance, and indeed as in others, Una Voce Scotland approached the venue to see if there was indeed any possibility at all. Those who sneer that we ought to go to the local Ordinary first should remember that it's harder to go without any details at all;
Having secured the agreement in principle that it may be possible to celebrate Holy Mass at St Magnus Cathedral, Bishop Moran was then contacted.

Now, there's plenty precedent for this method, as Father Z notes: there was a fine Solemn TLM in the Cathedral of Winchester which had the permission of the Catholic Bishop of Portsmouth. And even, happy reports closer to home, e.g. 'Historic Homecoming for Knights of Malta' and 'Sing Out in Praise at Abbey Mass in Stirling' (both Scottish Catholic Observer).

What happens next is confusing, and can divert attention from the real issues: Una Voce Scotland had suggested - to make things easier - that the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer provide Priests, rather than the Bishop having to find Priests. However, he didn't like this one, writing "they have as yet only limited faculties to celebrate Mass in this diocese". Fair enough, though he could have granted them specific faculties for this particular Mass. His Lordship then continues, "like all priests of the Church they are at liberty to celebrate the forma extraordinaria privately without specific permission, and to have some people with them when they do, but for public celebration the local bishop’s permission is needed". Now, this is where confusion can set in:

the motu proprio Summorum Pontificum provides that a Priest does not need any special faculty to celebrate the traditional form of the rite;
however, the Bishop is still correct in a manner of speaking. Why? Because he has ordinary jurisdiction - it's his Diocese. More importantly so, because it's not in a Catholic Church (CIC Canon 933).

So, the letter of the law does not allow the Bishop to forbid the old rite, but he cannot forbid the Mass entirely, especially due to the venue not being a Catholic Church nowadays - it requires his express permission. But this is where the Bishop might wish to set an example by taking a leaf out of Cardinal O'Brien's book: the Cardinal has been gracious and open to Una Voce Scotland, allowing them to make pilgrimage and celebrate Holy Mass in pre-Reformation sites.

Christian Campbell reminds us: "Whenever and wherever the Christian faithful ask for the older form of the Mass, every reasonable accommodation should be made. Even where congregations do not think to petition for the older use, the Holy Father suggests that pastors should introduce their people to its treasures." So why does Bishop Moran use the choice of celebrant, and a legal technicality, to summarily dash the hopes of those in his diocese attached to the old rite? Truly sad. And as to saying to the reporter, "I've no knowledge at all of what you're talking about. I'll make inquiries and get back to you" - curious? My Lord, you really ought not to sign things without looking!

The upshot? The upshot is that whilst Damian suggests complaining to the CDW, and Father Z corrects him - stating its PCED, i.e. CDF - there's no use complaining because the Bishop has exercised his ordinary jurisdiction in a matter of his competence. Also, this was private correspondence between the Ordinary and a member of Una Voce Scotland, already eight months old. Why didn't Damian contact him?

Whilst people grouse in comment boxes saying 'this is an outrage!', it's what many have had to put up with for forty years. The situation is changing slowly, and for the better. But setbacks do happen: each year Historic Scotland refuses us permission to finish the St Margaret Pilgrimage with a Mass in Dunfermline Abbey - do we beef about that? As a friend once said to me: "little trials, little pains, little splinters from the Cross". Grin and bear it - it's just a pity Moran couldn't be more gracious about this all! But let's not blow this out of all proportion!

International Juventutem Weekend at Douai Abbey

2010-05-14T03:00:00.000+01:00

During the weekend of the 10-12 September . Young Catholic Adults will be running the 2010 Juventutem Conference at Douai Abbey, the retreat will be led by Juventutem Ecclesiastical Assistant Fr de Malleray . The weekend will be full-board. Places are limited so please book early:

YCA will have half of the retreat centre to itself;
There will be socials;
Fr. de Malleray FSSP head of Juventutem will preach the retreat, Masses will be in the Extraordinary form.

THE MAIN GUEST HOUSE

Saturday 11th – Sunday 12th September (full board)*

51 pounds full-board (except Sunday lunch) PER PERSON PER NIGHT
25 pounds for students/low waged/unwaged (or whatever you can afford)

THE COTTAGES

£35 per person per night (full board). Self catering £25 per person per night (reductions for students:- or whatever you can afford).

SELF CATERING CAMPING

£5 per person per night (or whatever you can afford - please bring your own tent and food).

How to book - limited places so please reserve your place early.

To reserve your place FOR THE WEEKEND (no deposit needed if you are coming for the day on Saturday 5th July), please a 20 pound deposit (NON RETURNABLE) to Damian Barker, Flat 5, 12 St. Catherine Street, Kingsholm, Gloucester, Glos. GL2 9DU (please make any cheques payable to Damian Barker). For enquiries ring 07908105787.

upcoming events - May

2010-04-25T18:55:00.011+01:00

Sunday 2 May 2010
Exposition and Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 10.00am Mass, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Road, South Queensferry
followed by Benediction at 3.00pm

Saturday 8 May 2010
Sung High Mass [EF]
11.00am, former Carmelite Priory of St Mary, South Queensferry
(currently Scottish Episcopal Church)

part of this Church dates back to 1441; it is but a stone's throw from the former Queen's Crossing, used by St Margaret, Queen of Scots.

Thursday 13 May
Missa Cantata for the Ascension
6.15pm, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

Sunday 23 May 2010
Exposition and Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 10.00am Mass, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Road, South Queensferry
followed by Benediction at 3.00pm

Sunday 30 May (last Sunday of the month)
Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 11.30am Mass (Extraordinary Form),
St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

Sunday 30 May 2010
Exposition and Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 10.00am Mass, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Road, South Queensferry
followed by Benediction at 3.00pm

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Juventutem Meal (England)

2010-03-26T19:28:00.006Z

For our readers in England, Young Catholic Adults (the Juventutem Chapter in England) is organising a social even for Palm Sunday. They will be meeting up at the 11am Traditional Mass at St William of York Catholic Church in Reading on Palm Sunday (28th March) and then heading off for a meal afterwards (place to be specified). Everyone is warmly welcome.

The Church is situated on Upper Redlands Road, Reading, Berks. RG1 5JT, located next to St Joseph Convent School. Large free parish car park next to St William Church. Sung Mass preceded and followed with Confessions.

For more details see the YCA website, or the FSSP England website.

upcoming events - April

2010-03-25T18:55:00.011Z

Thursday 1 - Saturday 3 April 2010
Tenebrae for the Holy Triduum
10.00am daily, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh (info)

Thursday 1 - Sunday 4 April 2010
Easter Triduum Retreat
Craig Lodge, Dalmally, Argyll (facebook)

Thursday 1 April 2010
Mass for Maundy Thursday [EF]
7.00pm, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh

Friday 2 April 2010
Good Friday Liturgy [EF]
3.00pm, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh

Saturday 3 April 2010
Easter Vigil [EF]
8.00pm, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh

Sunday 4 April 2010
Mass of Easter Day (Missa Cantata) [EF]
11.30am, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh

Friday 16 April 2010
'Catholics and Evolution' talk
6.30pm, St Andrew's Church Hall, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh
talk organised by the Holy Family Apostolate (more info)

Saturday 17 April 2010
'Catholics and Evolution' talk
1.00pm, St Bride's Hall, Coursington Road, Motherwell
talk organised by the Holy Family Apostolate (more info)

Sunday 18 April 2010
'Catholics and Evolution' talk
3.00pm, Immaculate Heart of Mary, 162 Broomfield Road, Glasgow
talk organised by the Holy Family Apostolate (more info)

Saturday 24 March
Solemn High Mass for the 5th Anniversary of the Enthronement of Pope Benedict XVI, with Gregorian Chant propers
11.30am, Seton Collegiate Church, A198 near Longniddry

Sunday 25 April (last Sunday of the month)
Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 11.30am Mass (Extraordinary Form),
St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Annunciation in Edinburgh

2010-03-21T17:30:00.003Z

ANNUNCIATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

Thursday 25 March 2010

Vespers and Latin Mass
in the Extraordinary Form

Solemn Vespers and Benediction
5.00pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh
Rev. Fr. Bruno Clifton OP, Celebrant
(Gregorian Chant sung by Schola Sanctae Margaritae, Regina Scotorum)

Low Mass
6.15pm, FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh
Rev. Fr. John Emerson FSSP, Celebrant

Note: Tenebrae (Solemn Morning Prayer) will also be sung daily in St Mary's RC Cathedral, Picardy Place, Edinburgh, at 10.00am on the mornings of the Thursday 1st, Friday 2nd, and Saturday 3rd April. For more information see: edinburghschola.blogspot.com.

For more information on the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter (FSSP) in the UK, visit www.fssp.org.uk

reminder: A Passiontide Reflection

2010-03-19T19:00:00.000Z

REMINDER: TOMORROW!

Chant Day @ St Mary's
A Passiontide Reflection

Talks, readings and chants led by Fr. Paul Francis Spencer C.P. and the cantors of the St. Margaret Schola, culminating with First Vespers of Passion Sunday in St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral, Edinburgh.

All welcome: tuition in Gregorian Chant will be available (don't be put off: no experience necessary!).

Saturday 20 March 2010, 10:00am - 4:30pm.
St Mary's Cathedral Parish Centre (behind Café Camino),
Little King Street, Edinburgh (just by John Lewis at the foot of Leith Street)

Cost: £10.00 to cover lunch, refreshments and music.

Please call 07736061080 if attending.

Sacred Triduum and Easter in Edinburgh

2010-03-01T06:00:00.000Z

SACRED TRIDUUM &
EASTER 2010

Thursday 1 - Sunday 4 April 2010

Latin Masses
according to the Extraordinary Form

Rev. Fr. John Emerson
Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter
Celebrant

Thursday 1 April 2010
Maundy Thursday
7.00pm, Gregorian Sung Mass

Friday 2 April 2010
Good Friday
3.00pm, Solemn Liturgy of Good Friday

Saturday 3 April 2010
Easter Vigil
8.00pm, vigil Mass of Easter (Sung)

Sunday 4 April 2010
Easter Sunday

all within St Andrew's RC Church, 77 Belford Road, Edinburgh

LMS Priest Training Conference

2010-02-25T20:42:00.001Z

PRIEST TRAINING CONFERENCE
USHAW COLLEGE: 12TH – 16TH APRIL 2010.

This conference is being organised by the Latin Mass Society for diocesan and parish priests. Priests will receive training to learn the traditional Latin Mass and Liturgy.

Visitors are welcome to attend the following services.

PROGRAMME.

Mon 12th April. 11.00: Solemn High Mass of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
(Plainsong – Missa Cum Jubilo)
17.30. Vespers from the Little Office of The BVM

Tues 13th April. 11.15. Missa Cantata (Sung Mass).
(Plainsong – Missa Lux et Origo)
17.30. Rosary and Benediction.

Wed 14th April. 11.15. Missa Cantata (Sung Mass).
(Plainsong – Missa Cunctipotens Genitor Deus).
17.30. Vespers.

Thurs 15th April. 11.00. Solemn Requiem Mass.
(Missa pro Defunctis – Victoria).
17.30. Vespers.

Fri 16th April. 11.00. Solemn High Mass of St Cuthbert.
(Missa Aeterna Christi Munera – Palestrina).

All services will be held in St Cuthbert’s Chapel. Access is via the Conference Centre. Please allow ten minutes for parking and getting to the chapel.

Training will also be given to men and boys in altar serving.

Further information can be obtained from the LMS local contact:
David or Theresa O’Neill on 0191 264 5771. Email: david-oneill3 at sky.com.

upcoming events - March

2010-02-25T18:55:00.019Z

Sunday 7 March 2010
Adoration & Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
11.00am, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Rd, South Queensferry,
followed by Benediction at 3.00pm

Sunday 7 March 2010
St John Ogilvie Prayer Vigil
3pm, Glasgow Cross (Tolbooth); for more info see here

Sunday 7 March 2010
Sung Latin Vespers
7.15pm, St Margaret's Chapel, Canmore, St Andrews (info)

Saturday 13 March 2010
Una Voce Scotland Lenten Day of Recollection
10.00am - 4.00pm, Nazareth House, Cardonald (Glasgow) (info)

Sunday 14 March 2010
Adoration & Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
11.00am, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Rd, South Queensferry,
followed by Benediction at 3.00pm

Monday 15 March 2010
Screening of 'Turning the Tide', documentary about euthanasia (info)
7.00 - 9.00 pm, Café Via, Turnbull Hall, Glasgow University Catholic Chaplaincy

Saturday 20 March 2010
A Passiontide Meditation

Talks, readings and chants, culminating in

First Vespers of Passion Sunday
9.30am - 4.30pm, St Mary's Parish Centre /
Café Camino, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

E-mail post@edinburghschola.org.uk for further details

Sunday 21 March 2010
Adoration & Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
11.00am, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Rd, South Queensferry,
followed by Benediction at 3.00pm

Thursday 25 March 2010
(Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary)
Solemn Vespers and Benediction
5.00pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh (info)
please note change of time

Thursday 25 March 2010
Low Mass for the Annunciation
6.15pm, FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh

Friday 26 March 2010
Pro-Life Vigil (all-night Exposition)
6.00pm - 9.30am, St Lucy's, 9 Pine Crescent, Abronhill, Cumbernauld (info)

Sunday 28 March 2010
Lenten Penitential Service
2.30pm, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Rd, South Queensferry,
with Confessions, preceded by Exposition and Benediction, 11.00am - 1.45pm

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Lenten Devotions

2010-02-21T15:54:00.002Z

During Lent there will be Stations of the Cross, 5.30pm on Wednesdays and Fridays, at the FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh. This will be followed by Holy Mass at 6.00pm.

On Saturday 13 March, there is taking place a Lenten Day of Recollection, organised by Una Voce Scotland. This will include Holy Mass, a Spiritual Conference, lunch, and a Holy Hour. 10.00am, Nazareth House, Cardonald, Glasgow - please bring packed lunch.

Please note: there will also be Vespers for the Annunciation, within St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh at 6.45pm, Thursday 25 March.

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events you are aware of.

O.F. Latin Mass moves

2010-02-20T17:41:00.003Z

As of tomorrow, the first Sunday of Lent, the Ordinary Form Mass celebrated in Latin will move to the Glasgow University Catholic Chaplaincy, Turnbull Hall, Southpark Terrace. The Mass is celebrated at 4pm, every Sunday.

For more information, see glasgow.weebly.com

Lenten Retreat

2010-02-17T20:29:00.000Z

Lenten week-end of recollection: 5-7 March 2010

on ‘The Four Last Things: Death, Judgment, Hell and Heaven’.

*Address: All Saints Conference Centre, Shenley Lane, London Colney, Herts, AL2 1AF.

*Website: www.allsaintspc.org.uk.

*Starts on Friday 5th March 2010 at 5pm (later arrival possible) – ends on Sunday 7th March 2010 at 4pm.

*Holy Mass in the EF on Friday afternoon, Saturday and Sunday.

*Confession / spiritual direction on request.

* Retreat Master: Fr Armand de Malleray, FSSP

*Price: £126 everything included (for: £116 as Centre’s fees + £10 as FSSP fees).

*Please bring your traditional hand missal + your own towel and soap.

*Booking: please send to us a £15 deposit cheque made payable to FSSP ENGLAND. Please kindly book now. www.fssp.org.uk

Invocation 2010

2010-02-08T18:22:00.001Z

Invocation 2010 is a UK national festival aimed at young men and women aged 16-35, who are looking to deepen their relationship with Christ, discern God’s will for their lives and perhaps be open to the possibility of a vocation to the priesthood or religious life.

This year's event is taking place from Friday 2 to Sunday 4 July at St Mary's College, Oscott (near Birmingham).

For more information see the website at www.invocation.org.uk

Launch of the Gregorian Chant Network

2010-02-05T17:28:00.002Z

On Saturday 30th January, a meeting was held at the London Oratory to launch a new grouping, the Gregorian Chant Network, of scholas and interested parties to coordinate the promotion of Gregorian Chant in the Catholic liturgy.

The meeting was opened and the concept of the GCN introduced by Joseph Shaw, Chairman of the Latin Mass Society. After lunch Colin Mawby, the distinguished composer and former Director of Music at Westminster Cathedral, gave the keynote address on the importance of Chant, followed by a practical session on methods of conducting the Chant.

The meeting was attended by members of the Latin Mass Society, Una Voce Scotland, the Association for Latin Liturgy, the Schola Gregoriana of Cambridge, a number of chant teachers and experts, and the Directors of a score of Gregorian Chant scholas from all over the country, 36 people in all. The meeting concluded with First Vespers of Septagesima Sunday in the Little Oratory, led by Fr Alexander.

For more information, see www.gregorianchantnetwork.org

upcoming events - February

2010-01-25T18:55:00.009Z

Tuesday 2 February 2010
Missa Cantata for Candlemas (Feast of the Purification)
6.15pm, FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh

Thursdays, 4, 11, 18 & 25 February 2010
Gregorian Chant (intermediate)
9.45 - 11.45am, Appies Tea Rooms, Sandvick, Orkney Islands

Monday 8 February 2010
Traditional Latin Mass
7pm, Sacred Heart Church, 50 Old Dalmarnock Road, Bridgeton, Glasgow
followed by tea and talk for half an hour - all welcome

Tuesday 9 February 2010
Debate on legalising assisted suicide
6.00 - 7.30pm, Charles Wilson Building, University of Glasgow, G12 8QQ

Thursday 11 February 2010
(Apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary)
Solemn Vespers and Benediction
6.45pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh (info)

Wednesday 17 February 2010
Masses for Ash Wednesday
6.15pm, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)
6pm, Sacred Heart Church, 50 Old Dalmarnock Road, Bridgeton, Glasgow

Sunday 28 February (last Sunday of the month)
Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 11.30am Mass (Extraordinary Form),
St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

Sunday 28 February
Adoration & Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
11.00am, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Rd, South Queensferry,
followed by Benediction at 3.00pm

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Lenten week-end of Recollection

2010-01-14T12:00:00.004Z

Lenten week-end of recollection: 5-7 March 2010
on ‘The Four Last Things: Death, Judgment, Hell and Heaven’.
Retreat Master: Fr Armand de Malleray FSSP

All Saints Conference Centre, Shenley Lane, London Colney, Herts, AL2 1AF. Website: www.allsaintspc.org.uk
Starts on Friday 5th March 2010 at 5pm (later arrival possible) – ends on Sunday 7th March 2010 at 4pm.

Price: £126 everything included (for: £116 as Centre’s fees + £10 as FSSP fees). Please bring your traditional hand missal + your own towel and soap.

Booking: please send a £15 deposit cheque made payable to FSSP ENGLAND, to ‘FSSP Lenten Retreat', 179 Elgar Road, Reading, RG2 0DH, Berks. Please kindly book now.

Holy Family Apostolate has a website!

2010-01-14T08:44:00.001Z

The Holy Family Apostolate is a new association, based near Edinburgh, Scotland, for Roman Catholic families. Their field of apostolate is "firstly ourselves as individuals, our family members, form whom we have to answer directly to God, and lastly other families, as good families will necessarily produce a better society".

Their new website can be found at holyfamilyapostolate.wordpress.com

reminder: Chartres Pilgrimage Mass in Glasgow

2010-01-11T17:15:00.005Z

Monday 18 January 2010
Missa Cantata (Votive Mass for Unity of the Church), followed by talk about Chartres Pilgrimage
7.00pm, Glasgow University Catholic Chaplaincy, Turnbull Hall, 13-15 Southpark Terrace, Glasgow G12 8LG

Sung Mass celebrated according to the Extraordinary form of the Roman Rite. There will be a short talk about the Paris to Chartres Pilgrimage afterwards with details of how to apply for sponsorship.

For more information (previous posts) about Chartres see here.

Note: a similar talk will be held on Sunday 31 January, at the Edinburgh University Catholic Chaplaincy, 24 George Square, Edinburgh, at 8.15pm.

Unwanted Christmas gifts!

2010-01-04T21:29:00.002Z

The Sisters of the Gospel of Life want your unwanted gifts! If you have adult, children or baby clothing, jewellery, unopened toiletries, craft items or books that you don’t want, please pass them along to them and they’ll be sure to make use of them, either at the Initiative or in the Precious Things shop.

Their office at 104 Albert Rd, Glasgow is open 9.30-5pm, Monday to Friday. If you’d like more information give us a call on 0141 433 2680.

Thank you and God bless you!

Incidentally, Monday's Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God marks ten years since their foundation. Please pray for them that the next ten may be as blessed and grace-filled as the last.

Mary, Mother of God, pray for us!

reminder: Blog Help Wanted

2010-01-01T06:00:00.000Z

Reminder:

One of the authors of this blog intends to retire from blogging by Easter. If you have time to help out with this blog, and see it continue, please leave a comment, or email markadm at catholic dot org.

Without such help, this blog cannot continue.

All comments are moderated, hence private comments can be left which will remain unpublished.

Majestic Irish Cathedral Destroyed by Fire

2009-12-27T08:25:00.000Z

The north-central Irish Diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnoise has suffered the tragic loss of its 150-year old cathedral yesterday morning in what may have been an act of arson. Just a few hours after the bishop celebrated Midnight Mass, the fire broke out. By the time it was extinguished the beautiful interior was completely gutted.

A video showing the destroyed cathedral can be seen here. The Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnoise, Dr Colm O'Reilly, has said he will restore St Mel's Cathedral in Longford , though it will cost over €2 million. Bishop O'Reilly said he celebrated midnight mass to a packed Cathedral. He said that it was an extraordinary contrast the next morning. Construction on St Mel's started in 1840 and it opened in September, 1856.

More on this story here.

Though details of any fundraising efforts have yet to emerge, the Diocese can be contacted as follows:-

The Diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnois
Diocesan Office,
Ballinalee Road.
Longford.
Co. Longford.
Phone: +353 (0)43-3346432
Fax: +353 (0)43-3346833
Email: ardaghdi at iol.ie

(image: RTÉ)

upcoming events - January

2009-12-25T18:55:00.012Z

Friday 1 January 2010
Mass for New Year's Day [EF]
6.00pm, FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh

Wednesday 6 January 2010
Mass for the Epiphany [EF]
6.15pm, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

Monday 18 January 2010
Missa Cantata (Votive Mass for Unity of the Church),
followed by talk about Chartres Pilgrimage
7.00pm, Glasgow University Catholic Chaplaincy, Turnbull Hall,
13-15 Southpark Terrace, Glasgow G12 8LG

Thursdays, 21 & 28 January 2010
Gregorian Chant (intermediate)
9.45 - 11.45am, Appies Tea Rooms, Sandvick, Orkney Islands

Thursday 21 January 2010
Solemn Vespers and Benediction for the feast of St Agnes
6.45pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh (info)

Friday 29 January 2010
Mary's Meals Launch Night (fb)
7.30 - 9.00pm, Balcony Room, Teviot House, University of Edinburgh (Bristo Square)

Sunday 31 January (last Sunday of the month)
Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 11.30am Mass (Extraordinary Form),
St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

Sunday 31 January
Talk: Paris to Chartres Pilgrimage
8.15pm, Edinburgh University Catholic Chaplaincy
Blackfriars, 24 George Square, Edinburgh (facebook)

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Christmas Masses in Edinburgh

2009-12-21T09:49:00.002Z

CHRISTMAS 2009

Thursday 24 & Friday 25 December 2009
11.30pm, 09.30am, and 11.30am

Latin Masses
according to the Extraordinary Form

Rev. Fr. John Emerson
Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter
Celebrant

11.30pm, Gregorian Sung Mass
St Andrew's RC Church, 77 Belford Road, Edinburgh
(Carols from 11.30pm to midnight)

09.30am, Low (said) Mass
FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh

11.30am, Gregorian Sung Mass
St Andrew's RC Church, 77 Belford Road, Edinburgh

For more information on the FSSP in the UK, see www.fssp.org.uk

Two Venerable Popes and a Martyr

2009-12-19T18:39:00.003Z

A decree issued today by the papal offices has declared Popes Pius XII and John Paul II to be venerable. The bestowing of this title is a confirmation of their exemplary life and a step towards beatification and perhaps ultimately sanctification. For the cause of Pope John Paul II the miracle cure of a French nun is under investigation.

The decree is not unexpected in the cause of John Paul II. At his funeral there were calls for 'Santo subito'(Saint now) and rumours of this declaration of venerability have been growing these past days. Similarly, rumours continue that his beatification will happen sometime next year, either on the anniversary of his death (2 April) or the start of his papacy (15 October).

Pope Pius XII's papacy ran from 1939 to 1958 and his cause has long been slowed down by of accusations of his alleged lack of actions against the Holocaust. Much can be said about this and against the majority of the accusations, but evidently the decision has been made to recognise Pius XII's heroic virtues.

Officially, the two popes must now be referred to as Venerable Pope Pius XII and Venerable Pope John Paul II.

The same decree also affirms the martyrdom of Fr. Jerzy Popiełuszko, a Polish priest who was murdered by the Polish Security Police in 1984 for his role in the anti-communist workers movement in Warsaw. Fr. Popiełuszko was a young priest (only 37 at the time of his death) who supported the striking steel workers in Warsaw and then became an inspiration, both spiritually and politically for the fledgling Solidarność union. Eleven days after his murder, the body of Fr. Popiełuszko was found in a reservoir. He is buried in front of his church in Warsaw.

(reposted from There was a boy...)

Another Successful Gregorian Chant Course

2009-12-16T21:09:00.001Z

The historic church of St Magnus, Birsay (Orkney), provided a fitting venue for Gregorian chant on Monday 14 December. The ancient evening service of Compline was sung by students on a beginners’ Gregorian Chant course. The course, led by Harray resident Ben Whitworth, ran at Appies Tea Rooms, Sandwick, during November and December. It followed a successful beginners’ course, also at Appies, last winter.

Ben said: ‘The students on the course were really enthusiastic and the quality of the singing at Birsay Kirk indicates just how much work they put in. Gregorian Chant is rightly famous for its serenity, but it requires a lot from the singers: accuracy, stamina, good pronunciation of Latin – and all this unaccompanied. I’m proud of how much this class has achieved.’

After the first beginners’ course, a number of students wished to continue meeting to learn new music. The group – known as the Orkney Schola – now rehearses regularly, and has sung at the Catholic parish church of Our Lady and St Joseph in Kirkwall. An intermediate course will run at Appies in the New Year, beginning on Thursday 21 January 2010. To book, please call Pam Farmer on 841562. The course will suit anyone who has completed one of the beginners’ courses at Appies, or who has some experience of choral singing.
Further details:

For additional information, contact: Ben Whitworth, Cribbaquoy, Harray, Orkney KW17 2LQ, tel. (01856) 771677, email: ben at whitworth.net, blog: orkneychant.blogspot.com

(image: Singers at the Gregorian Chant service of Compline in St Magnus’ church, Birsay; Angie Whitworth)

New Charity Shop...

2009-12-12T07:59:00.003Z

The Sisters of the Gospel of Life have opened up a new outlet, hoping to get the pro-life message out.

If you are in Glasgow at any point, the shop, Precious Things, is at 651 Cathcart Road, and the Sisters would be delighted to see you.

Please keep this new venture, and all the wonderful work of the Sisters and the Cardinal Winning Pro-Life Initiative in your prayers.

You can still make a donation to the Sisters via the PayPal button on their blog's sidebar, or you can send items for the mothers and babies in their care direct to 106 Dixon Avenue, Glasgow, G42 8EL.

Cenacle of the Eucharistic Face of Jesus

2009-12-11T20:12:00.001Z

News from Tulsa, OK: This week saw the clothing of the first novice of the Our Lady of the Cenacle monastery, Brother Juan Diego Maria de San José. Fr Mark Kirby, superior of the Cenacle, has been given a mandate by Bishop Slattery, the local Ordinary, to live under the Benedictine rule, in a life of adoration, thanksgiving, intercession and reparation.

The Cenacle is planning renting larger property for use as a temporary monastery. However, this depends on the generousity of others. More funds means this can be achieved, and even beginning may be made on a permanent monastery. Cheques can be sent to Fr Kirby at the address below.

~~*~~

The foundation of the Benedictine Monastery of Our Lady of the Cenacle in the Diocese of Tulsa, Oklahoma is a timely response to the Year of the Priesthood. The following notes present something of the vision for this new monastery under the Rule of Saint Benedict. Please address all inquiries to Father Mark at the address given below.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR LIFE IN ABUNDANCE

"I came," says Our Lord Jesus, "that they may have life, and have it abundantly." (John 10:10)

-- A LIFE THAT IS MONASTIC

"One thing is needful." (Luke 10:42)

• under the Holy Rule of Saint Benedict and the guidance of the Father of the monastery.
• in the school of the service of the Lord.
• in obedience, the love of silence, and humility.
• in the joy of the Holy Spirit.

-- A LIFE THAT IS EUCHARISTIC AND SACERDOTAL

"I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer." (Luke 22:15)

"And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be consecrated in truth." (John 17:19)

• the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass: the sun illuminating each day.
• daily prolonged adoration, on behalf of all priests, before the Eucharistic Face of Jesus, close to His Open Heart.
• in reparation for offenses committed against the Most Blessed Sacrament, and for the indifference of those who forsake Him, Who waits for us in the tabernacles of the world.
• in thanksgiving for the mercies that ever flow from the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus.

-- A LIFE THAT IS OFFERED AND CONSECRATED

"I appeal to you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship." (Romans 12:1)

• for the sanctification of priests and the spiritual renewal of the clergy in the whole Church.
• in reparation for the sins that disfigure the Face of Christ the Priest.
• in the sacrificial love that is inseparable from the gift and mystery of the priesthood.

-- A LITURGICAL LIFE

"I give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart; in the presence of the angels I sing your praise." (Psalm 137:1)

"O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness." (Psalm 28:2)

"Through Him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God." (Hebrews 13:15)

• Holy Mass and the Divine Office celebrated in Gregorian Chant.
• bringing to the traditional forms of the sacred liturgy a diligence and beauty worthy of the Holy Mysteries.

-- A LIFE WITH OUR LADY, THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

"When Jesus saw His mother and the disciple whom He loved standing near, He said to His mother, 'Woman, behold your son!' Then He said to the disciple, 'Behold your mother!' And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home." (John 19:26-27)

• following in the footsteps of Saint John the Apostle who, obedient to the word of Jesus crucified, took Mary into his home and into the intimacy of his priestly heart.
• communitarian and personal consecration to the Virgin Mary.
• commemoration of the Mother of God at all the liturgical Hours.
• Holy Rosary daily.

-- A LIFE THAT IS ECCLESIAL AND APOSTOLIC

"In the Church and in Christ Jesus to all generations." (Ephesians 3:21)

• heeding the Supreme Pontiff, our Holy Father, the Successor of Peter.
• in filial obedience to the Bishop of the Diocese of Tulsa, Oklahoma.
• in generous service of the clergy by means of hospitality given to priests, deacons, and seminarians for days of silence and adoration, for retreats, and for spiritual direction.
• promoting Eucharistic adoration in the diocese of Tulsa.
• direction of the movement for spiritual motherhood benefiting priests.

-- A LIFE OF WORK

"Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord, and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in every one." (1 Corinthians 11:4-7)

• hospitality to priests, deacons, and seminarians.
• spiritual care and support of the clergy.
• both manual and intellectual work, according to the abilities and gifts of each one.

-- A LIFE THAT INCORPORATES DIVERSE EXPRESSIONS WITHIN A SINGLE FAMILY

"If all were a single organ, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, yet one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, 'I have no need of you,' nor again the head to the feet, 'I have no need of you.'" (1 Corinthians 11:19-21).

• choir monks dedicated to the integral service of the liturgy and, normally, destined for the priesthood.
• monks not destined for the priesthood who, imitating Saint Joseph, dedicate themselves to the ceaseless prayer of the heart in the daily tasks entrusted to them.

• diocesan priests, Missionary Adorers of the Eucharistic Face of Jesus, sacerdotal Oblates of the monastery, living its charism and sustained by the monastic community in the midst of their pastoral labors. The Missionary Adorers, while remaining incardinated in their respective dioceses, will live according to the Statutes approved by the Bishop of Tulsa.

• deacons and laymen, single and married: secular Oblates of the monastery.
• women Oblates dedicated as Spiritual Mothers for Priests, following the initiative of the letter of 7 December 2007 of His Eminence, Claudio Cardinal Hummes, Prefect of the Congregation Pro Clericis.
The monastery will provide these women with a suitable initial and ongoing spiritual formation.

-- ADORERS OF THE EUCHARISTIC FACE OF JESUS

"You have said, 'Seek my Face.' My heart says to You, 'Your Face, O Lord, do I seek.' Hide not your Face from me." (Psalm 26:8-9).

"It is the God who said, 'Let light shine out of the darkness,' who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the Face of Christ." (2 Corinthians 4:6).

• all participate daily in adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament in the monastery, or for priest, deacon, and lay oblates, in their parishes

-- MONASTIC FORMATION

For Catholic men between the ages of 18 and 35.
Postulancy: 3-6 months
Novitiate: 2 years
Temporary Vows: 3 years
Monastic Consecration after 5 years

~~*~~

Please send your contributions toward building the Eucharistic Cenacle to:

Reverend Dom Mark Daniel Kirby, O.S.B.
1744 South Xanthus Avenue
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74104-5324
Telephone: 918-749-0995
E-mail: cenacle at sbcglobal.net

Thank you for your generosity. May Our Lord Jesus Christ make the light of His Eucharistic Face shine upon you.

upcoming events - December (2)

2009-12-10T18:47:00.006Z

December 15th onward

Monday - Friday during Advent
Confessions
12.00 - 12.30pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

Tuesday 15 December 2009
Service of Advent Lessons and Carols (more info)
6.30pm, Conventual Church of Saint John of Jerusalem
(Hospital of St John and St Elizabeth, Grove End Road NW8
in aid of the Knights of Malta Hospice

Tuesday 15 - Friday 18 December 2009
Advent retreat: 'The Holy Angels' (more info)
Douai Abbey, Upper Woolhampton, Berkshire
Preacher: Fr Armand de Malleray FSSP

Thursday 17 December 2009
Solemn Vespers and Benediction - Great Antiphon 'O Sapientia'
5.00pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh
please note the altered time (more info)

Saturday 19 December 2009
Advent Penitential Service
4.30pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

Sunday 20 December 2009
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
12.00am, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Rd, South Queensferry,
followed by Benediction at 1.45pm; Advent Penitential Service thereafter

Sunday 20 December 2009
Holy Mass for 4th Sunday of Advent [EF]
5.00pm, St Thomas the Apostle, Blackburn Road, Addiewell
this Mass will normally take place on the 3rd Sunday of each month

Sunday 20 December 2009
Sung Latin Vespers and Benediction
6.30pm, Immaculate Heart of Mary, 162 Broomfield Road, Balornock (Glasgow)
please note the altered time (more info)

Thursday 24 December 2009
vigil Mass of Christmas
carols at 11.30pm, Mass at Midnight
St Andrew's RC Church, 77 Belford Road, Edinburgh

Friday 25 December 2009
Masses for Christmas Day
9.30am, FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh
11.30am, St Andrew's RC Church, 77 Belford Road, Edinburgh

Sunday 27 December (last Sunday of the month)
Benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament
after 11.30am Mass (Extraordinary Form),
St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh (more)

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Priests Training Conference (Ushaw)

2009-12-07T15:30:00.001Z

LMS Residential Training Conference for Priests Wishing to Learn the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite (Traditional Latin Mass) at Ushaw College, Durham.

The Latin Mass Society of England and Wales (LMS) is organising a residential training conference for priests wishing to learn the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite (Traditional Latin Mass) at Ushaw College, Durham, one of England’s most prestigious seminaries.

The conference will run from Monday 12 April to Friday 16 April 2010 (i.e. Low Week) and will feature Traditional liturgies in Ushaw’s magnificent neo-Gothic St Cuthbert’s Chapel together with a Gregorian Chant schola and polyphonic choir.

Expert tuition in the celebration of Mass in the Usus Antiquior will be provided on a small group basis. There will be tuition in Low Mass, Missa Cantata and Missa Solemnis and there will be streams for beginners and more advanced students. There will be a keynote lecture and 1962 Missals and altar cards will be available.

There will be opening and closing High Masses, daily Mass and Devotions, and Rosary. There will also be a closing Conference dinner with guest speaker.

The subsidised fee to participants is only £115.00 which includes all accommodation, meals and training materials. There are limited places and priests are asked to register as soon as possible.

Further details and registration forms can be obtained from the LMS office (Tel: 020 7404 7284, e mail: info at latin-mass-society.org) or from the conference organiser, Mr Paul Waddington (Tel: 01757 638027, e mail: paul at gooleboathouse.co.uk).

Paul Waddington said, “This is the second time the LMS has organised such a training conference at Ushaw College and we are delighted to be going back. I hope the laity will tell their priests about this wonderful opportunity to learn the Usus Antiquior in the setting of one of England’s finest Catholic seminaries.”

Latin Mass Society, 11-13 Macklin Street, London WC2B 5NH
Tel: 020 7404 7284
E mail: info at latin-mass-society.org
Website: latin-mass-society.org

(photo: Fr Ray Blake)

Papa Stronsay Calendar

2009-12-04T19:11:00.001Z

by Fr Tim Finigan

The Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer on Papa Stronsay have a beautiful and original calendar for 2010 featuring photos of Liturgy and manual work on the island. For information, see: Into a New Year with the Papa Stronsay Calendar. There are some copies left after their regular mailing to subscribers so it would be good if they were able to sell them. The first page has a list of "n00th" anniversaries through the centuries, such as the 1800th anniversary of the birth of St Cyprian. Each day has the celebration listed according to the liturgical calendar of 1962.

You can get a copy via paypal by using the order link on the sidebar of the Papa Stronsay blog, or you can order one from ebay. Price £5.

(reproduced, with permission, from The Hermeneutic of Continuity)

Historic homecoming for the Knights of Malta

2009-12-01T17:27:00.002Z

by Gerald Warner

West Lothian witnessed an historic event as the Knights of Malta returned after 450 years to Torphichen Preceptory, their mediaeval headquarters in Scotland lost at the Reformation, to celebrate the Latin Mass.

The occasion was presided over by Fra' Fredrik Crichton-Stuart, Grand Prior of England of the Order of Malta, accompanied by knights and dames of the order (above).

The traditional Mass was arranged by Una Voce Scotland, the Scottish branch of the International Latin Mass Federation. Una Voce has been conducting Masses in the extraordinary form in different historic venues in Scotland and at the end of October they celebrated an Old Rite Mass at Cambuskenneth Abbey [Stirling].

The celebrant was Mgr Hugh Boyle; Fr John Emerson, of the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter, was seated in the sanctuary beside the Grand Prior. The splendid vestment worn by Mgr Boyle, which attracted much attention, were 19th-century French cloth of gold.

Fred Stone of Una Voce explained that when they were taken to the Burrell Collection for expert assessment the museum was anxious to acquire them, but they are still very much in service and far from becoming museum.

Torphichen Preceptory near Bathgate in West Lothian was granted to the Knights Hospitaller by King David I in the 1140s, but there had been a church there from very ancient times, allegedly established by St Ninian around 400AD and said to have been visited by King Arthur a century later.

Torphichen was the Scottish Commandery of the Knights of Hospitaller of St John (known from 1530 as the Knights of Malta, after they took possession of that island.) Before and after the Battle of Falkirk in 1298, it was visited respectively by William Wallace and Edward I Longshanks, the Hammer of the Scots.

After the Reformation the building was partly demolished; only the foundations of the knight's cloister remain. The nave of the cross-shaped church became the parish kirk, but that too was demolished in 1756 and replaced by the present parish church.

Of the original commandery building all that remains is the central tower and transepts of the mediaeval church. These portions only surive because they were for a time used as a courthouse. The tower was at one point ruinous, but was re-roofed in 1947.

The building, now in the care of Historic Scotland, is still impressive. The vaulted ceiling is fine example of mediaeval craftmanship and, as the Una Schola schola discovered, provides excellent acoustic for Gregorian plainsong. They sang the Mass and then Te Deum, concluding with the Salve Regina.

In his homily Mgr Boyle invoked the historic nature of the occasion and the ancient link that Torphichen represented with the Order of Malta and Scottish Catholicism. At the end of Mass, Fra' Freddy Crichton-Stuart led the knights in reciting the prayer of the Order of Malta.

(photo © Martin Gardner;
reproduced from The Scottish Catholic Observer, 27.11.09)

upcoming events - December (1)

2009-11-30T09:00:00.021Z

Events to December 14th

Monday - Friday during Advent
Confessions
12.0 - 12.30pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

Wednesday 2 December 2009
Holy Hour - Prayer for Priests
7.00 - 8.00pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

Thursdays, 3 & 10 December 2009
Gregorian Chant for Beginners
9.45 - 11.45am, Appies Tea Rooms, Sandvick, Orkney Islands

Saturday 5 December 2009
Cardinal Winning Pro-Life Initiative Advent Bazaar
12.00 noon - 2.00pm
Holy Cross Church Hall, 104 Albert Road, Crosshill, G42 8DR
(see here)

Sunday 6 December 2009
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
11.00am, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Rd, South Queensferry,
followed by Rosary and Benediction at 3.00pm

Monday 7 December 2009
(vigil of the Immaculate Conception)
Traditional Latin Mass
7pm, Sacred Heart Church, 50 Old Dalmarnock Road, Bridgeton, Glasgow
followed by tea and talk for half an hour - all welcome

Tuesday 8 December 2009 (Immaculate Conception)
Traditional Latin Mass (Missa Cantata) [EF]
6.15pm, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh
(to be confirmed)

Tuesday 8 December 2009
Prayer Evening for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception
7.30 - 9.30pm, Convent, 106 Dixon Avenue, Glasgow
organised by the Confraternity of St Joseph (more info)

Saturday 12 December 2009
Una Voce Advent Day of Recollection
10.00am, Nazareth House, Glasgow
Led by Mgr Hugh Boyle.
Starts 10am, with Coffee; ends with Holy Hour, approx. 3pm

Sunday 13 December 2009
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
11.00am, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Rd, South Queensferry,
followed by Rosary and Benediction at 3.00pm

Sunday 13 December 2009
Sung Latin Vespers and Benediction
5.00pm, St John Cantius Church, Broxburn (more info)

Sunday 13 December 2009
Carol-singing (more info)
starts 2.30pm, Fortescue House, 58 Grove End Road, London NW8
ends approx. 4.00pm, in aid of the Knights of Malta Hospice

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Manhattan Declaration

2009-11-26T20:24:00.003Z

by Fr Ray Blake

The "Manhattan Declaration", is according to Sandro Magister, "The Manifesto That's Shaking America",

It's been endorsed by Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox leaders, united in defending life, the family and the place of Christianity in society. Obviously aimed at the Whitehouse:

"We will not be intimidated into silence or acquiescence or the violation of our consciences by any power on earth, be it cultural or political, regardless of the consequences to ourselves."

it is presented as a new civil rights movement:

We are Orthodox, Catholic, and evangelical Christians who have united at this hour to reaffirm fundamental truths about justice and the common good, and to call upon our fellow citizens, believers and non-believers alike, to join us in defending them. These truths are:
the sanctity of human life
the dignity of marriage as the conjugal union of husband and wife
the rights of conscience and religious liberty.
Inasmuch as these truths are foundational to human dignity and the well-being of society, they are inviolable and non-negotiable. Because they are increasingly under assault from powerful forces in our culture, we are compelled today to speak out forcefully in their defense, and to commit ourselves to honoring them fully no matter what pressures are brought upon us and our institutions to abandon or compromise them. We make this commitment not as partisans of any political group but as followers of Jesus Christ, the crucified and risen Lord, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

sign it yourself here

(reposted from St Mary Magdalen)

Coming Up Next Week (November, Week 4)

2009-11-22T21:50:00.004Z

Thursdays, 5, 12, 19, & 26 November 2009

Gregorian Chant for Beginners
9.45 - 11.45am, Appies Tea Rooms, Sandvick, Orkney Islands

Tuesday 24 November 2009
Parish Requiem Mass (Sung) [OF]
7.00opm, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Balornock (Glasgow)

Wednesday 25 November 2009
Queensferry Quench: "Danger!"
Are all religions essentially fundamentalist?
talk with Dan Petersen (more info)
7.15pm onwards, Orocco Pier, 17 High Street, South Queensferry

Saturday 28 November
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions
after 10.00am Mass, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh, AND
after 10.00am Mass, St Kentigern's, 26 Parkgrove Avenue, Edinburgh EH4 7QR

Sunday 29 November 2009 (Advent Sunday)
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
12.00 noon, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Rd, South Queensferry,
followed by Rosary and Benediction at 3.00pm

Sunday 29 November 2009
Prayer for the Conversion of Scotland
Rosary vigil to pray for Scotland's leaders, and the conversion of Scotland
2.00pm, outside Scottish Parliament, Abbey Strand (Holyrood), Edinburgh

Sunday 29 November 2009
Unveiling of the Nativity Scene and Carol Service
4.00pm, St Andrew's Square Gardens (east of George Street), Edinburgh

Monday 30 November 2009
Traditional Latin Mass [EF]
7.00pm, Sacred Heart, Old Dalmarnock Road, Bridgeton (Glasgow)

Monday 30 November 2009
Traditional Latin Mass (Missa Cantata) [EF]
6.15pm, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh

Monday 30 November 2009
Solemn Vespers and Benediction for the feast of St Andrew, Apostle
6.45pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Note: November has seen an unprecedented number of traditional events, hence splitting the 'Upcoming Events' post into four. Please let us know if you like this new format!

"Almighty Answers" blog

2009-11-22T17:46:00.003Z

by Fr Tim Finigan

A student at the University of Edinburgh tells me of the Catholic chaplaincy there, which is run by the Dominicans. The students are fortunate to have five friars dedicated to their our spiritual care.

Last year they started up a blog called 'Almighty Answers' to encourage ordinary students (as well as anyone else who comes across the blog) to ask questions about the Faith or any other aspect of the Church. These questions are then responded to, either by one of the priests, or by a student, depending on the nature of the question.

The blog was set up and run last term during the Chaplaincy's 'Mission Week' and it has now been restarted. They welcome questions and comments...

You may also 'corner a cleric' by emailing almighty.answers at gmail dot com.

Reminder - Prayer Vigil for Conversion of Scotland

2009-11-18T17:32:00.001Z

A reminder to all that the Holy Family Apostolate is organising a Prayer Vigil outside the Scottish Parliament on Advent Sunday.

Remember the blasphemous play performed at the Tron Theatre in Glasgow? This is a symptom of the spiritual and moral sickness pervading our society at an alarming rate...

The Holy Rosary is the perfect antidote, so please join us in front of the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh (Abbey Strand), on Sunday 29 November, at 2pm. Will you come along and pray for good leadership and the conversion of Scotland?

For more information please call 0131-669 1434, or email holyfamilyapostolate at gmail.com

Advent Carol Service in Aid of Knights of Malta Hospice

2009-11-15T17:29:00.003Z

If you find yourself in London in the middle of December, here is an opportunity to support the excellent hospice work of the Knights of Malta:-

You are warmly invited to attend

A SERVICE OF ADVENT LESSONS AND CAROLS

in the Conventual Church of Saint John of Jerusalem
(Hospital of St John and St Elizabeth, Grove End Road NW8)
at 6.30 p.m. on Tuesday 15th December, 2009

The renowned choir ‘Cantores Missae’, under the direction of Charles Finch, will sing carols and motets.

There will be a retiring collection for the

much-needed support of

Saint John’s Hospice.

Following the service, all are warmly welcome to join members of the Order for mulled wine and mince pies in Fortescue House, adjacent to the Hospital.

Update: there will also be Carol-singing in the environs of St John's Wood, on Sunday 13 December, approx 2.30pm - 4.00pm. For more information, see here.

Singing Out in Praise at Abbey Mass in Stirling

2009-11-14T21:00:00.002Z

A Sung Mass in the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite was celebrated last week in the bell tower of the mediaeval Cambuskenneth Abbey in Stirling.

The Mass was celebrated by Fr John Emerson FSSP from Edinburgh, and was only the second Mass to be celebrated in the Abbey since the Reformation, the first having been celebrated by Fr Emerson last year.

The Schola of Una Voce Scotland sang the Plainchant Mass of Our Lady, and Mass ended with the Salve Regina. Mgr Hugh Boyle from Our Holy Redeemer's, Clydebank, presided over the Choir.

Fr Emerson celebrated a Mass in the Extraordinary Form of the Roman rite on the first Sunday of the month in the Church of the Holy Spirit in Stirling at 5.00pm.

(photo: Martin Gardner; article reproduced from The Scottish Catholic Observer, November 13th 2009)

Coming Up Next Week (November, Week 3)

2009-11-14T20:30:00.003Z

Thursdays, 5, 12, 19, & 26 November 2009

Gregorian Chant for Beginners
9.45 - 11.45am, Appies Tea Rooms, Sandvick, Orkney Islands

Monday 16 November 2009
Solemn Vespers and Benediction for the feast of
St Margaret, Queen of Scots
6.45pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

Monday 16 November 2009
Traditional Latin Mass [EF]
7.00pm, Sacred Heart, Old Dalmarnock Road, Bridgeton (Glasgow)

Saturday 21 November
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament & Confessions
after 10.00am Mass, St John's, 37 St Ninian's Road, Corstorphine EH12 8AL

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Note: November has seen an unprecedented number of traditional events, hence splitting the 'Upcoming Events' post into four. Please let us know if you like this new format!

Government seeks secrecy on cleft palate abortions

2009-11-13T22:21:00.002Z

from The Telegraph:

In an extraordinary move, the Department of Health is taking the Government’s own Information Tribunal to court to overturn a landmark Freedom of Information Act ruling.

The case, which is set to cost the taxpayer thousands, aims to prevent the publication of controversial statistics including late terminations for disabled babies, which are legal under Ground E of the Abortion Act, right up to birth.

Last month, the Information Tribunal upheld and earlier ruling by the Information Commissioner, in favour of the Pro-Life Alliance, that the data must be published.

courtesy of The Sisters of the Gospel of Life. Read more here.

Catholic Church launches new website

2009-11-09T18:43:00.002Z

from the Bishops Conference of Scotland

Being Catholic.org is a new website which is designed to promote Catholic adult education in Scotland. It is provided as a free resource by the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland.

There are three main sections on the site: Praying our Faith, Learning our Faith and Sharing our Faith. These are intended to help users to reflect, pray and learn and they provide:

scripture readings from the daily Mass [Ordinary Form];
a 3 minute on-line retreat;
a thought for the day which can be download to MP3 players;
blogs and podcasts.

There are links to the Vatican Radio and the Vatican YouTube websites, as well as to various Scottish Catholic agencies, helping users to keep up-to-date with the latest news and views in the Catholic Church.

The site also provides information on the many courses and events provided in Scotland to help Catholic adults to grow in their faith.

All this information is just a simple click away. www.BeingCatholic.org

[Please pray for Being Catholic's success, and also think of ways to help.]

new Marist Rosary Fraternity

2009-11-07T17:25:00.002Z

Thanks to the Sisters of the Gosepl of Life for passing on the news:-

Brother John Ogilvie of the Marist Order has started a Marist Fraternity and welcomes all who would like to come along and join with him in praying this most Holy Rosary.

This is held at 1.30pm each Tuesday at St Mungo’s Church in Townhead (Glasgow) and is carried out in the Middle Hall, which is at the rear of the church and entered from McAslin Street.

“Remember your Rosary”

Coming Up Next Week (November, Week 2)

2009-11-06T21:50:00.000Z

Thursdays, 5, 12, 19, & 26 November 2009

Gregorian Chant for Beginners
9.45 - 11.45am, Appies Tea Rooms, Sandvick, Orkney Islands

Saturday 14 November 2009

Holy Mass [EF]
11.00am, Torphichen Priory, near Bathgate
Torphichen is the former Headquarters of the Order of St John of Jerusalem in Scotland.

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Note: November has seen an unprecedented number of traditional events, hence splitting the 'Upcoming Events' post into four. Please let us know if you like this new format!

Advent retreat

2009-11-04T15:28:00.007Z

Advent retreat on the theme:

‘The Holy Angels - who they are, and what they do.’

Advent retreat at Douai Abbey (Upper Woolhampton RG7 5TQ, Berks. – railway: Midgham)

Tues. 15th (2pm)- Fri. 18th (11am) December 2009

Preacher: Fr Armand de Malleray, FSSP

Cost: £107 - to cover: Accommodation: single room with en-suite bathroom, full board: £92, full board, including VAT; Retreat Master’s expenses: £15.

Booking: please send a £15 cheque made payable to ‘FSSP England’ to:

Fr Armand de Malleray, FSSP,
179 Elgar Rd, RG2 0DH, Reading, Berkshire, UK.

For more information, please see www.fssp.org.uk.

(image: Martini's The Angel Of The Annunciation, Wikimedia Commons)

Assisted suicide consultation until the 16th!

2009-11-04T09:53:00.003Z

Archbishop Peter Smith on the CPS consultation on assisting suicide (Vimeo)

The Crown Prosecution Service is holding a public consultation on 'assisted suicide' until November 16th. This means we, the public, the faithful, have a real opportunity to influence the views of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the CPS' practices and procedures.

Don't leave it to someone else: act now!

More information is available on the English Bishops Conference Website.

Blog Help Wanted

2009-11-04T06:00:00.002Z

One of the authors of this blog intends to retire from blogging by Spring 2010. If you have time to help out with this blog, and see it continue, please leave a comment, or email markadm at catholic dot org.

All comments are moderated, hence private comments can be left which will remain unpublished.

Coming Up Next Week (November, Week 1)

2009-10-30T21:50:00.000Z

Sunday 1 November
Holy Mass for All Saints' (Missa Cantata) [EF]
11.30am, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh

Sunday 1 November
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
11.00am, St Margaret's RC Church, Loch Rd, South Queensferry,
followed by Rosary and Benediction at 3.00pm

Monday 2 November
Low (said) Mass for All Souls' [EF]
8.00am, FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh

Monday 2 November
Holy Mass for All Souls' [EF]
10.30am, St Mary's, Fochabers

Monday 2 November
Holy Mass for All Souls' (Missa Cantata) [EF]
12.15pm, FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh

Monday 2 November
Holy Mass for All Souls' (Missa Cantata) [EF]
6.15pm, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh

Monday 2 November 2009
Queensferry Quench: "God's Undertaker"
Has science buried God?
talk with Alistair Donald (more info)
7.15pm onwards, Orocco Pier, 17 High Street, South Queensferry

Tuesday 3 November 2009
Prayer Vigil against blasphemous play
7.00pm, outside Tron Theatre, Trongate, Glasgow

The Holy Family Apostolate have organised a prayer-protest against a blasphemous play entitled ‘Jesus Queen of Heaven’ which depicts Jesus as a transexual woman. Venue is the Tron Theatre, Glasgow, starting Tuesday 3rd November.

Volunteers are meeting outside the theatre to pray a Rosary of Reparation from 7-8pm. Please do your best to join this protest against this calculated insult to Our Lord. if you can’t make it, please remember us in our prayers during the day.

Wednesday 4 November 2009
Holy Hour - Prayer for Priests
7.00 - 8.00pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

Thursdays, 5, 12, 19, & 26 November 2009
Gregorian Chant for Beginners
9.45 - 11.45am, Appies Tea Rooms, Sandvick, Orkney Islands

Saturday 7 November 2009
Una Voce Requiem Mass [EF]
12.00 noon, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Balornock

Saturday 7 November 2009
Monteverdi Vespers (1610)
Linton Singers & Scottish Gabrieli Ensemble
7.30pm, Carlops Church, Carlops

Sunday 8 November 2009
Monteverdi Vespers (1610)
Linton Singers & Scottish Gabrieli Ensemble
7.30pm, Canongate Kirk, Royal Mile, Edinburgh
both these performances are in aid of Mary's Meals^(?); tickets £8 at the door.

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Note: November has seen an unprecedented number of traditional events, hence splitting the 'Upcoming Events' post into four. Please let us know if you like this new format!

All Souls' Masses in Edinburgh

2009-10-30T16:32:00.007Z

ALL SOULS' DAY

Monday, 2nd November 2009
8.00am, 12.15pm and 6.15pm

Latin Requiem Masses
according to the Extraordinary Form

Rev. Fr. John Emerson
Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter
Celebrant

8.00am, Low (said) Mass
FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh

12.15pm, Gregorian sung Mass:
FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh

6.15pm, Gregorian sung Mass:
St Andrew's RC Church, 77 Belford Road, Edinburgh
(with Gregorian Chant sung by Schola Sanctae Margaritae, Regina Scotorum)

For more information on the FSSP in the UK, see www.fssp.org.uk

To find out more about the Schola, which sings monthly Latin Vespers in Edinburgh, visit edinburghschola.blogspot.com

Murphy lobbies over Pope's visit

2009-10-25T18:59:00.001Z

Scottish Secretary Jim Murphy has said he hopes that the Pope will make a visit to Scotland next year

Mr Murphy will travel to Rome next week for talks with the Vatican about a possible visit to the UK next year by Pope Benedict XVI.

The Pope is expected to visit the UK in 2010 but nothing has been formally announced.

To read the full article (BBC News) please click HERE.

Catholic genealogical records go online

2009-10-06T20:52:00.005+01:00

A "treasure trove" of historic archives from the Scottish Catholic Church have been published online for the first time.

Hundreds of volumes of records from the Scottish Catholic Archives have been available on the ScotlandsPeople site.

They include details of French royal post-revolution refugees and Sherlock Holmes creator Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's family tree.

To read the full article (BBC News) please click HERE.

Photos from Pluscarden Sacred Music Symposium

2009-09-30T21:27:00.003+01:00

Blogging friend Monachus Benedictus has posted a selection of photographs from the Pluscarden Abbey Sacred Music Symposium 2009 on his blog:

The selection is available here, with more in a flickr set.

There is also a report on an ordination at Pluscarden and the text of Abbot Gilbert's meditation on Priesthood here (Spiritual Mothers of Priests).

upcoming events - October [updated]

2009-09-30T06:00:00.011+01:00

Monday 5 October 2009
Queensferry Quench: "Mad, Bad or Sad?"
Why does anyone still believe in God today?
talk with David Robertson (more info)
7.15pm onwards, Orocco Pier, 17 High Street, South Queensferry

Wednesday 7 October 2009
Holy Hour - Prayer for Priests
7.00 - 8.00pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

Thursday 8 October 2009
Life Society Talk: "Should we create animal-human hybrids?"
guest speaker: Dr. Calum Mackellar
7.30pm, Lecture Theatre 1, Appleton Tower, George Square, Edinburgh
Dr Mackellar is Director of Research, Scottish Council of Human Bioethics

Thursday 15 October 2009
Solemn Vespers and Benediction for the feast of St Teresa of Ávila
6.45pm, St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh

Friday 16 October 2009
All Night Vigil
6pm - 6am, St Lucy's, Cumbernauld (see here)

Wednesday 21 October 2009
The Ethics of the Death Penalty (Debate)
7.15 - 9.00pm, Chaplaincy Room 2, Edinburgh University

Saturday 31 October 2009
Holy Mass
11.00am, ruins of Cambuskenneth Abbey, near Stirling

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

confirmed: Pope Benedict XVI to visit UK

2009-09-29T15:35:00.001+01:00

Father Federico Lombardi, the director of the Vatican press office officially confirmed that Pope Benedict XVI will visit Great Britain next year.

Father Lombardi told reporters about plans for papal voyages in 2010 to Malta, Portugal, and Great Britain. The trips to Malta and Portugal have already been announced by the hosts in each country. Father Lombardi added that it was a "good hypothesis" that the Holy Father would visit Great Britain, and the beatification of Cardinal John Henry Newman would be "an obvious occasion" for that trip. He said that preparations for all of the projected trips on the calendar for 2010 are still incomplete.

Sisters of the Gospel of Life welcome new postulant

2009-09-18T20:53:00.002+01:00

by Fr Tim Finigan

Congratulations to the Sisters of the Gospel of Life and to Sr Amanda Brennan (above: centre) who has joined them as a new postulant.

The Sisters do great work in helping mothers who are tempted to abort their unborn child, offering compassion, kindness, and spiritual and material support. Their work is very worthy of your almsgiving - see the sidebar of their website to donate via paypal.

(reproduced with permission from The Hermeneutic of Continuity)

Nothing wrong with that?

2009-09-02T17:16:00.001+01:00

Lifesitenews reports that Mrs Blair has once again stated her opposition to the Catholic Church's 'ban' - as she calls it - on contraception. She clearly says that it has been a part of her and her husband's married life.

Addressing the Edinburgh International Book Festival, Cherie Blair has again called upon the Church to change her perennial teaching on contraception. “I personally don't think there is anything wrong with that, said the wife of the former British prime minister, and indeed without being able to control that I wouldn't have been able to achieve the things that I've been able to do. I think there's a lot of difference between preventing a life coming about and actually extinguishing a life when it has come about, she added. A spokesman for the Church in Scotland defended Catholic teaching after hearing Mrs. Blair’s remarks. Referring to the abortifacient nature of some contraceptives, he said that extinguishing a life “is exactly what the morning-after pill does, while the conventional pill can potentially do the same.”

We are in a time of bold dissent from the Catholic Church's teaching and we must pray that our bishops will be inspired by the Holy Spirit to guide their faithful according to the Natural Law.

(source: gloria.tv/Fr John Boyle)

upcoming events - September

2009-08-30T22:00:00.004+01:00

Wednesday 2 September 2009
Holy Hour - Prayer for Priests
7.00 - 8.00pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

Thursday 3 September 2009
Solemn Vespers and Benediction for the feast of Pope St Pius X
6.45pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

Saturday 5 September 2009
Solemn High Mass (Byrd 4-part)
Brinkburn Priory, Northumberland
Rudgate Singers of York assisted by members of Una Voce Scotland; vestments provided by UVS.

Sunday 6 September 2009
Solemn High Mass
11.30am, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh

Saturday 12 September 2009
High Mass for wedding of David Brower & Coleen
1.30pm, Immaculate Heart of Mary, Balornock

Friday 18 September 2009
Mass for Vocations [OF]
7.00pm, Convent of the Little Sisters of the Poor, Gilmore Place, Edinburgh

Saturday 19 September 2009
Una Voce Scotland AGM and Holy Mass
1.00pm, Holy Mass, Seton Collegiate Church, East Lothian
AGM, afterwards, St Gabriel's Church Hall, Prestonpans

Tuesday 29 September 2009
Sung Mass for Holy Michael the Archangel [EF]
6.15pm, FSSP Oratory, 6 Belford Park, Edinburgh

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events.

Douai Abbey Weekend for 18-35 Year Olds

2009-08-28T15:43:00.000+01:00

If you are in the 18-35ish age range, there will also be a retreat led by Fr. de Malleray FSSP (head of the international Juventutem Federation) at Douai Abbey 18-20th September 2009.

How to Book for the retreat

From as little as 25 pounds for students (or 48-88 pounds for non students) for more details, please see www.youngcatholicadults.co.uk/news.htm or email juventutemcatholicam at yahoo.co.uk, or ring 07908105787.

* Douai Abbey has excellent transport links to London and its environs with a train station (Midgham – just past Reading) just 15 minutes walk away; and the A4 and M4 just down the road. Please see www.youngcatholicadults.co.uk/news.htm for directions.

Ambulance at the Foot of a Cliff

2009-08-28T15:18:00.005+01:00

Dr Lyndsey Myskow, an Edinburgh sexual health expert argued in the Scottish Herald that the morning after pill should be available free of charge in Scotland’s schools. A spokesman for the Catholic Church in Scotland answered that "the morning after pill has been progressively distributed over the past five years. At every step the availability has been mirrored by a rise in sexually transmitted diseases, a rise in conceptions and a rise in abortions. "The morning after pill is like the equivalent of putting an ambulance at the foot of a cliff instead of putting a fence at the top."

(more here)

Better to resign

2009-08-28T15:18:00.004+01:00

James MacMillan, the Scottish composer who is one of the Catholic world’s leading creative artists, has requested Catherine Pepinster, the editor of the Tablet, and Elena Curti, her deputy to resign. The Tablet crisis is caused by its misrepresentation of Catholic teaching on abortion and Archbishop Nichols’ views on the Latin Mass in successive editorials.

(more here)

Nanny Wanted

2009-08-27T18:00:00.002+01:00

FULL TIME NANNY REQUIRED

Weekdays Only
Glasgow Area

Non Smoker, Driving License

Email CV to:
scoadvert at googlemail dot com

This is a really lovely young family, in urgent need of a nanny. It would be great if other bloggers could pick this up and people could spread the word. Thank you and God bless!

Spiritual Mothers of Priests

2009-08-23T19:51:00.001+01:00

by Fr Tim Finigan

In 2007, the Congregation for the Clergy published a document entitled Eucharistic Adoration for the Sanctification of Priests and Spiritual Maternity. It is largely a collection of reflections on the example of women who prayed particularly for priests.

Jane, who writes the blog Thoughts from an Oasis in French Catholicism, has taken up the idea of promoting Spiritual Maternity for priests with a dedicated blog Spiritual Mothers of Priests. She has been helped particularly by the advice and encouragement of Fr Mark of Vultus Christi who lives in the diocese of Tulsa, Oklahoma and spends his time in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, interceding for his brother priests. He has a helpful post: What can I do for the Year of the Priest?

It is a great source of joy and encouragement for priests to know that others are praying for them. It also motivates us to try to live a holy life in response to the generosity of others in their prayers and sacrifices. My warmest thanks, which I am sure will be echoed by brother priests, for all those who pray for priests.

(reproduced from The Heremeneutic of Continuity)

Sisters Appeal...

2009-08-18T19:54:00.003+01:00

by Mulier Fortis

The wonderful Sisters of the Gospel of Life are in need of baby stuff, as they're running very low on supplies. They don't need baby wipes, but they are asking for other baby toiletries, buggies, cots, baths and high-chairs. The Sisters run the Cardinal Winning Pro-Life Initiative, and have saved countless babies from being aborted by offering care, counselling and practical support to young mothers who feel they have no other option but to abort. This practical support extends to helping to find accommodation for young mothers, providing cots, prams, baby clothes and so on.

On their blog, they asked for stuff from anyone in the Glasgow area, but we know from previous experience that Amazon (UK) and Amazon are able to deliver these items, however small the order. The delivery address, if you use this option is:

Sisters of the Gospel of Life
106 Dixon Ave
Glasgow
G42 8EL

It is also possible to make a donation via PayPal. The button is on the Sisters' sidebar.

Finally, the Sisters are aware that times are hard, and so they ask for those who cannot afford to send anything to keep them in their prayers. So pop over and tell them that you are praying for them and the work that they do.

(reproduced from Mulier Fortis)

Clergy Retreat for the Year for Priests

2009-08-10T17:50:00.002+01:00

by Fr Armand de Malleray FSSP

Clergy pilgrimage to Ars and Lyons, 8-12 February 2010, led by Fr de Malleray FSSP - for the Year for Priests

On August 8th, 2009, Feast (EF calendar) of St John Marie Vianney, Patron of Priests:

Reverend and dear Fathers,

On this feast of our common Patron, please accept my heartfelt wishes of peace and joy in your priestly life.

To meet among priests and ask for the intercession of the holy Curé, I have the pleasure of inviting you to a pilgrimage to Ars next year (in exactly six months) from February 8 to 12, 2010 (i.e. the week before Ash Wednesday – 17 February 2010).

(image: the shrine of the Curé of Ars)

Dates:

Depart Monday morning 8 February 2010 from the UK, arriving in the afternoon in Lyon and reach Francheville (FSSP house on the outskirt of Lyons).
Return Friday morning 12 February 2010 from Lyons.
Our pilgrimage will be under the special protection of Our Blessed Lady, the Mother of God and the Mother of priests as the anniversary of Her Apparitions in Lourdes will occur while we are still in Lyons. (Feb. 11th).

Location:

We will be based in the beautiful St Padre Pio House run by the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter in Francheville (Lyons), less than an hour drive from Ars. Single room accommodation. Garden.

Scheduled:

A full day in Ars, the climax of our stay. Possibility of offering Holy Mass in Ars. Visit of the Curé’s presbytery. Veneration of his relics.
One day in Lyons, original Episcopal See of St Iraeneus: visit of the Basilica of Fourvières; prayer at the place of death of St Francis de Sales; visit of the Roman amphitheatre where the protomartyrs of Gaul SS. Polycarp, Blandina, Pothinus and others suffered in 117 a.D. On a lighter note, meal in a ‘bouchon’ (traditional Lyonnais restaurant; see here).
We will also have conferences on priestly spirituality, including the theology of the Mass, the EF Roman liturgy and prayer life.

Price (estimate):

About £150 for return train ticket London St Pancras-Lyons-London St Pancras (reduction possible if we travel as a group).
Alternatively: Easyjet direct return flight Stansted-Lyons-Gatwick: minimum price £51 (for group ticket of 15 passengers).
Accommodation will be very affordable in the FSSP house - rough estimate: £30/day with breakfast + 1 main meal at least, i.e. £120 for 4 full days (4 nights).
To be added: transport in Lyons and to Ars. Meals outside of the house (at least twice).

Liturgy:

Possibility of offering private Mass daily in the Extraordinary Form of the Roman rite (please bring only your alb, biretta, cingulum and linens). Compline (or one other Hour per day) in the EF of the Roman rite (please bring EF Breviary if you possess one).

Booking:

please send a £120 cheque made payable to ‘FSSP ENGLAND’, posted to : Fr de Malleray, FSSP, 179 Elgar Rd, RG2 0DH, Reading, Berkshire, UK. Please include your complete contact details in the booking.

Number of places available as of today: 13.

I am looking forward to meeting you again soon and I wish you a blessed Year for Priests. With my prayer,

Fr Armand de Malleray FSSP

Link:

pictures of Francheville and FSSP in Lyons

(image below: Priests in the Padre Pio House Chapel)

upcoming events - August [updated]

2009-07-31T06:00:00.006+01:00

Tuesday 4 - Thursday 6 August 2009
Vocation retreat with Fr de Malleray, FSSP
Axminster, Devon (more info)

Wednesday 5 August 2009
Holy Hour - Prayer for Priests
7.00 - 8.00pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

Thursday 6 August 2009
Solemn Vespers and Benediction for the Transfiguration of Our Lord
6.15pm, St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh

Friday 14 August 2009
All Night Prayer Vigil
6pm onwards, St Lucy's Church, Abronhill, Cumbernauld (more info)

Saturday 15 August 2009
Missa Cantata for the Assumption
12.00 noon, St Andrew's Church, Belford Road, Ravelston, Edinburgh

Saturday 15 August 2009
Solemn Vespers for the Assumption of the B.V.M.
4pm, St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events, or if you would like to know more.

upcoming events - July

2009-06-30T06:00:00.002+01:00

Wednesday 1 July 2009
Holy Hour - Prayer for Priests
7.00 - 8.00pm, St Mary's RC Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh

Sunday 5 July 2009
Mass of thanksgiving
4pm, Old College of Scalan, nr Tomintoul

~~*~~

Please comment with details of further events, or if you would like to know more.

Cappa Magna in use again

2009-06-24T18:10:00.001+01:00

by Gregor Kollmorgen

From the Scottish Catholic Observer comes this interesting report:

Cardinal Keith Patrick O’Brien received a great welcome as he arrived as the Papal Legate of Pope Benedict XVI at St Columba’s Church Long Tower on the feast of St Columba and the centenary of Long Tower.
Cardinal O’Brien arrived in cappa magna, seen in Derry for the first time since Vatican II. The particular cappa magna worn by the cardinal initially belonged to Cardinal Heard, the first Scots-born Cardinal appointed since the Reformation. The cappa magna then passed on to Cardinal Gray — then to Cardinal Winning — and now is in the possession of Cardinal O’Brien with this solemn event being the first occasion on which he has worn it.
Rev Thomas Philip Donnelly (senior priest of the diocese), Pontifical Mission to the Papal Legate, and Rev Michael Canny (Administrator, St Eugene’s Cathedral) accompanied the cardinal.

(Read the entire report at the site of the Scottish Catholic Observer here)

While the cappa magna is not a strictly liturgical vestment, it is still a part of the prelatial choir dress, and perhaps the one that most vividly typified the prelatial dignity. That its use has been taken up again by Cardinal O’Brien may be taken to show the ongoing influence of the re-assertion of a hermeneutic of continuity in the Church, which is also shown by a passage of the Cardinal's homily, reported by the observer:

Cardinal O’Brien said that the centenary celebrations were part of the ‘great river of Christianity of which the late Pope John Paul II spoke in the Year of Columba 1997.
That river of Christianity began with the birth of Jesus Christ; it has continued through the centuries with the ministry of men like St Columba in Ireland and Scotland; and continues right up to our own time.’

(reproduced from The New Liturgical Movement)