The Papal Mass

One can only imagine the vast work involved in organising this Mass, the first of the Papal visit, and the first ever by a reigning Pontiff in this country. Every inch of the Cathedral was crowded - everyone had a special reason for being there!

A Papal throne was constructed to the exact dimensions of the Cathedra of the archbishop, and was dressed in white and positioned at the High Altar. As a deacon at Our Lady of Victories in Kensington in 1989, I remember this throne, preserved there as a relic.

Either side of the Holy Father were the relatively youthful Cardinal Basil Hume of England and Wales, and Cardinal Joseph Gray of Scotland. To the Pope's left is his Master of Ceremonies, Mgr McGee - an Irishman!

The hierarchy of England, Wales and Scotland was assembled before the chief shepherd.

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