The Provost, Canon Michael Brockie, yesterday installed two new Canons of the Cathedral Chapter, Fr Stuart Wilson (left) and Fr Colin Davies (right). I was particularly proud as Fr Stuart had been once my curate at Bayswater parish. Even then, I knew he was destined for greatness - having had a long and distinguished career in the Church of England.
The new Canons here stand next to Bishop Alan Hopes, auxiliary in Westminster. They are wearing the new Cappas recently adopted by the Chapter, a simplified version of the former Cappa and train.The Westminster Cathedral Chapter has a long and colourful history; soon after its establishment in the 1860s, it almost led the diocese into schism! Details of the Errington affair will fill several posts, so must wait until the quieter days of summer.
Like all Chapters, the Canons were deprived of most of their executive powers by Pope Paul VI, and the title became honorific, usually bestowed on long-serving priests throughout the diocese. Cardinal Murphy-O'Connor has (as is his right) made the Chapter his College of Consultors, a body which advises him. Non-resident at the Cathedral, they come once a month for a meeting, and to sing the liturgy. One of their responsibilities is oversight of the Cathedral, and once a year I must make a report to them; I hope my former curate will not be too hard on me!
"They are wearing the new Cappas recently adopted by the Chapter, a simplified version of the former Cappa and train."
ReplyDeleteDoes that mean we will never see the Cappa Magnas again? I do hope not.
The Canons and Chaplains wore Cappa Parvas - the Chapter have (as it were) dropped theirs; the chaplains are retaining them, at least for the present.
ReplyDeleteThey look much better!
ReplyDeleteWas it not the case that, when the Westminster Chapter was resurrected some time after the restoration of the Hierarchy, a privelege was given to the Westminster Chapter (and I think Salford and maybe another diocese) to adopt the canonical dress of the Lateran Basilica? Is that the canonical dress that has now been dropped? If so, does it not mark a break with that little bit of history?
ReplyDeleteNot saying it shouldn't be done (and thank God the Chapter is still there) but just curious from that historical perspective.
Tom, you are correct about the privilege given to the Westminster Chapter - they adopted the canonical dress of the Lateran Basilica, and the Chaplains actually wear that of the minor canons.
ReplyDeleteCanon Wilson appears to be wearing a good lace rochet. Is the rochet one of their privileges?
ReplyDeleteOne of the things I love about the Catholic Church is that it embraces everyone. As a former avid train-spotter, I rejoice that there's space for rivet-counters!
ReplyDelete