New Catholics at the Cathedral 2006
Mass for our new Catholics
More than 300 people gathered for the Mass for New Catholics celebrated at St George’s Cathedral, Southwark, by Archbishop Kevin and Bishop John Hine on Saturday 20th May 2006. Archbishop Kevin congratulated all those who had been baptised or received into the Church at the Easter Vigil. He warmly welcomed them back to the Cathedral where he had gathered with them, at the beginning of Lent, to celebrate the Rite of Election.
Fr Alan McLean and his diocesan choir led the congregation in the joyful music for the Mass. The servers for the Mass came from St Winefride’s parish, Kew Gardens, which this year is celebrating its centenary year. The readings of the Day (Saturday in 5th week of Easter) were particularly appropriate to the occasion – especially the reading from the Acts of the Apostles which included the following verse:
‘So the churches grew strong in the faith, as well as growing daily in numbers.’ (Acts 16:5)
During his homily
Archbishop Kevin said:
"At the
Rite of Election there is always a great atmosphere of joy and expectation.
This comes to its fulfilment in the celebration of the Easter sacraments.
Sometimes this can then give way to a certain flatness as we return to the
realities of ordinary life. It is important to remember that this is
entirely normal. We live out our Christian commitment within everyday life
which has its highs as well as its lows. It is within that reality that God
continues to call us and bless us."
Referring back to the Gospel from the Rite of Election about the seed growing ‘night and day’ (Mark 4:26-29) he spoke of the Christian life as a continual process of growth and a journey in faith under the grace of God and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
After the Mass refreshments were served in the Amigo Hall and Archbishop Kevin was able to chat informally with those who had attended what was truly a most joyful celebration.
Entry Procession - Archbishop Kevin with Bishop John Hine
Congregation
Signing Archbishop Kevin's homily
Archbishop Kevin's homily
The Offertory Procession
Leaving the sanctuary after Mass
