Solomon, I Have Surpassed Thee

Fr Tim's Cathedral Blog

2008-09-24T20:30:00.003Z

Some readers have asked how to reach my blog. Here's the URL:

http://westminster-cathedral.blogspot.com

The title of the blog is:

'The years of our lives are like a tale that is told'

Also, if you happen to be on the home page of the Westminster Cathedral Website there are links both for the new blog and the Mark Langham Archive, a record of all the former Administrator's postings over the last few years.

The Monsignor Vanishes

2008-09-22T20:07:00.003Z

With Mgr Mark Langham now in Rome (with the Congregation for the Unity of Christians) this may be the last posting on the 'Solomon' blog. It now becomes the Mark Langham Archive, which you can always access via the Cathedral website. I say it MAY be the last because, he might suddenly reappear with Roman adventures - like Jason Bourne, but without the car chases. Meanwhile I have started a new blog which I hope will keep you up-to-date on behind the scenes goings on. Fr Mark's roof garden which he created ex nihilo will now be needing the attention of the remaining Clergy House residents. (It turns out Fr Kingsley knows a thing or two about plants.) Let's hope we remember to water.

Guests from Douai, Diocese of Cambrai

2008-09-09T16:47:00.004Z

On Monday, 8 September, a group of priests from France visited the Cathedral, concelebrated Mass and were welcomed by the Adminsitrator and the Chaplains. They were accompanied by two monks from Douai Abbey in England and joined us for lunch at Clergy House. It was a happy occasion as there is a good link between Westminster and Douai. It was in that town that English priests were trained and prepared for the mission in this country - many being subsequently martyred. The body of Saint John Southworth was discovered during road building works in the 1920s. Our guests were delighted to be shown the shrine of the saint in the Cathedral, as there is a commemorative shrine to St John in the main parish church of Douai.

The Christopher Legend

2008-09-03T16:41:00.003Z

Here's the upper part of the mural at Horley. Now you can see that the Child Jesus is sitting on St Christopher's shoulder. There's a scroll inscription (medieval speech bubble) which has St Christopher marvelling at how heavy the Child has become, to which Jesus replies: 'That's because you are carrying the King of Bliss.'

I promised Canon Christopher...

2008-09-02T22:33:00.005Z

...that I would try and photograph a medieval mural of St Christopher in the Church of St Etheldreda, Horley (N. Oxon). where I have been staying.

It's said to be largest mural of the saint in England. The Christ Child IS on his shoulder, but my picture doesn't quite show "the King of bliss" as the inscription describes him. What you can see is a chap fishing in the river below. It's thought to be the earliest representation of an English angler, waiting for a bite.

Signs of life !

2008-09-02T21:48:00.004Z

Like most people I've been away, so apologies for going off the air. Unforgiveable in the blogosphere, I am told. There are stirrings at the Cathedral - nothing more, you understand - to suggest that life is returning to the complex. People are trickling back from all directions. There is a new Organ Scholar called David who has taken up residence. I will introduce him shortly but let me first say a word about Oliver Brett, his predecessor, who left this summer. In August he was in Kansas City to give a recital at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Now, he is about to start a teaching post in England. Back in June, Oliver gave a superb recital for the Friends in the Cathedral Hall. It was a memorable evening, Schubert's last three piano sonatas which we enjoyed enormously. Here he is - unruffled - at the end of that very demanding performance. A remarkable musician, it seemed to me. We wish Oliver well.

Distinguished visitor (2)

2008-08-08T19:17:00.003Z

We also welcomed Cardinal Ivan Dias, Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples, who was in England for the Lambeth Conference where he spoke to the assembly. During his visit to London, I had the privilege of giving him a tour of the Cathedral which he certainly enjoyed. He seemed a most serene and gentle bishop. Cardinal Dias is a former Archbishop of Bombay (Mumbai). He is a renowned linguist, speaking many languages. In May this year, Pope Benedict appointed him to the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts. He holds a number of Curial resposibilities.

Distinguished visitor (1)

2008-08-08T18:29:00.004Z

We were honoured to receive a visit from the Governor-General of the Solomon Islands in July. Canon Tuckwell gave him a tour of the Cathedral. He is Sir Nathaniel Waena GCMG, GSI, KStJ and he called to see us with Lady Waena and members of his staff. He represents the Queen in a tropical paradise, a chain of a thousand islands in Melanesia, east of Papua New Guinea.

One last goodbye

2008-08-08T18:03:00.006Z

The chaplains, under their new Administrator, have been hosting one or two farewell events recently. First Fr Dwayne, to wish him bon voyage to Ohio, then Fr Michael Seed - and this week, an evening in Drury Lane with Fr Mark Langham, to wish him godspeed to Rome. (Not the Theatre, you understand, but a jolly hostelry where you listen to live opera and a very handy string quartet.) Somebody had the foresight to order a cab to return us to Clergy House. Taking the Tube, we thought, might expose us to comment on the platform.

A memorable end to the summer party season. Now we go our separate ways...

Steps in the right direction

2008-07-18T09:22:00.010Z

Work on the new steps at the entrance to the Cathedral is going ahead fast. Here's a view of the work from above. Many thanks to Simon Lloyd (Acting Precentor, last year's organ scholar) for this shot and earlier pictures of the interior scaffolding. I'm not quite sure how he got up there. In truth, I don't think I want to know.

The work is being done before our eyes and already the steps are looking very fine. But the Cathedral's Appeal for funding to pay for everything is as urgent as ever...

A great many specialist services are required to make this radical modification to the exterior.
The work which fulfills the legal requirement for wheelchair access has taken years in the planning. One day, we'll ask Fr Mark how many meetings he attended over recent years before the final plans were given the go-ahead. Everyone from Westminster City Council and the Victorian Society to the Local Residents Association will have had strong views.

A high level of craftsmanship is required of the stonemasons. One of them told me the new steps are made of Cornish granite. The same stone exactly as the Cathedral's High Altar.

A Franciscan cake

2008-07-16T16:01:00.003Z

Cardinal Cormac has such an unrelenting schedule that he missed the start of our farewell lunch for Fr Michael Seed SA. The Cardinal made a little speech thanking Michael for all his years at the Cathedral and his ecumenical work for the Church. A fine cake appeared, decorated by Sister Mericia of Clergy House with the Franciscan 'Tao'. We watched in thoughtful silence as the good friar made the first incision. It was not - although it could have been - a Seed Cake.

Laughter in the Base Court

2008-07-16T11:25:00.008Z

L to R: (back) Mr. Oliver Brett, (organ scholar), Sister Bridget, Mr. Martin Hambulo (Intern) Canon Christopher Tuckwell (Administrator), Mgr Mark Langham (outgoing Administrator) perhaps the most outgoing in recent memory, Fr Denis Sarsfield. Front: Fr Michael Archer, Fr Michael Seed (also outgoing), Fr Michael Durand, Fr Michael Marchlewski SJ., USA, (on his customary summer 'supply' at Clergy House), Sister Clement (Archbishop's House), Bp George Stack, Bishop of Gemellae in Numidia, Auxiliary Bishop of Westminster and himself a former Administrator.

To the trained eye, Sunday lunch is clearly in the offing. There may even be one or two contemplating a second sherry. My steady hand on the camera suggests that I have yet to have my first.

Cardinal Manning's birthday

2008-07-14T16:52:00.003Z

Tuesday is the 200th anniversary of the birth of Cardinal Manning, the second archbishop of Westminster. After each Mass we will be going to his tomb in the crypt to say a prayer.

I will not perturbate Thy Paradisal state With praise Of thy dead days; To the new-heavened say, -"Spirit, thou wert fine clay:" This do,Thy praise who knew.

Francis Thompson; To The Dead Cardinal of Westminster

Canon on Grade I

2008-07-11T07:23:00.003Z

I thought that was Mr Wilson - but it seems the Administrator himself has taken to the keys. Let's hope it was 'after hours'. Ahem!

New organ?

2008-07-07T20:56:00.009Z

Not really. This replica of a 17th Century Italian instrument (Lucca) is here for a recording by the Cathedral Choir. New CD recordings are always addressed at this time of year. Mr Thomas Wilson, Acting Assistant Master of Music at the console.

'John the organist' tells me this instrument normally lives at St John the Evangelist, Upper Norwood, a large, very fine church in the Anglican Diocese of Southwark, whose main instrument is a splendid Lewis organ.

Moving Saint John

2008-07-06T11:48:00.008Z

This is the second year that we have moved the feretory containing the body of St John Southworth into the nave for his Feast Day on 27 June.

Canon Christopher supervised the operation this year with the Welsh Guards.

The casket is extremely heavy so all these men were really needed.

The Cathedral's own martyr-saint, safely returned to the Chapel of St George and the English Martyrs.

Steel Yourself

2008-07-06T11:41:00.004Z

It's going to get worse before it gets better. BUT - it has a certain beauty of its own.

Novissima Hora Est

2008-06-11T04:55:00.002Z

I do hope you will continue to follow this weblog, and draw inspiration and grace from this magnificent Cathedral. I have had the privilege of serving here for thirteen years of my priesthood, and will miss it mightily. My new appointment will be announced in the next few days - thank you for your support and kind comments and, above all, for your prayers.

A Final Visit to the Terrace

2008-06-11T04:47:00.003Z

.. at least, under current management! The fine weather of the last few days has really brought on the flowers.

The sunflowers surge upwards; it will be interesting to see how they fare!

During my time here, the terrace has been a haven of peace away from the busy life of the Cathedral, and I have found much heart's ease at the end of the day in tending the plants.

The Blog Continues ..!

2008-06-10T05:04:00.004Z

Many of you have sent kind messages about the blog, and wondered whether it might continue. I've been in discussions with the Administrator (who is very keen that the blog continue) and with several other chaplains, and am delighted that Fr Tim Dean will take over the blog ( - he is already attired for business, above!), with other pictorial contributions from Fr Michael Archer (who has just purchased a super new camera).

I've hoped that this weblog has given some vision of the life behind the scenes at the Cathedral, as well as recording some of its great moments, and presenting (and indeed archiving) some of its rich history. Above all, I hope it has helped bring this extraordinary and glorious House of God to a wider audience. It is one of the duties of an Administrator to raise the profile of the Cathedral, and I have been gratified at the number of visitors who have told me that they have become aware of Westminster Cathedral through the blog.

I'll give my final posting tomorrow - but it is good to know it will mark only a stage in the continuing life of the blog!

Pond Life

2008-06-10T04:22:00.000Z

The irises have come out in the pond, making a spectacular contrast with the flaming nasturtiums.

Congratulations, Fr Kingsley and Fr Edward

2008-06-09T06:10:00.000Z

Today we had an opportunity to celebrate in Clergy House the priestly ordinations of Fr Kinsley Arulananthem and Fr Edward Houghton, last weekend. Both are of particular joy for the Cathedral; Fr Kingsley has been posted to the Cathedral, and moved into Clergy House this weekend. Fr Edward has been deacon with us for the past year, and will remain with us for the summer, until moving to his new appointment at Chiswick.

For the occasion, Sister Mericia delighted us again with an extraordinary cake - all set up ready for Mass!

It is particularly fitting that this joyful occasion should be one of my last postings, before the blog concludes next week. Please keep both Fr Kinsley and fr Edward in your prayers.

The Choir School at work

2008-06-08T06:30:00.002Z

Dominic Marshall, head of religious studies, takes a class in the Clergy House Library. Note the lap-top computers - how different from the pens and exercise books of my day!

St Francis Takes Shape

2008-06-06T06:44:00.000Z

Amid building works within and without, another set of scaffolding goes up, as the Mosaic Workshop moves in to begin work on St Francis. With its pair of St Anthony, these are the work of Leonard McCombe RA - you can see the proposed design here.

Full sized cartoons are being applied; since the background features dozens of intricately detailed birds, it is something of a jigsaw puzzle. We hope that work will be finished by the autumn.

Working on the Steps

2008-06-05T03:09:00.003Z

Not only is the interior of the Cathedral filled with scaffolding; work has also commenced on the new steps, which will incorporate ramps and so provide access for all.

This week, a wooden framework was put in place, marking the extent of the new steps and giving some idea of the scope of the finished project.

Work is due to continue until the autumn.

Padre Pio Premieres

2008-06-04T02:52:00.001Z

Last night, the Cathedral hosted a concert of sacred music, performed by the Cathedral Choir and the celebrated musical ensemble 'The Sixteen'. The concert highlighted settings of the words of Padre Pio, set by the prominent Catholic composers James McMillan and Roxanna Panufnik.

These pictures were taken at rehearsals during the afternoon. The concert itself was a sell-out.

Spotted, during rehearsals, was the noted composer James McMillan, listening to the first performance of his new work.

Farewell, Fr Dwayne

2008-06-03T02:38:00.000Z

Following six years of faithful service at the Cathedral, Fr Dwayne Bednar leaves today to return to the United States. Last night the chaplains went out to celebrate his time here, and thank him for his great contribution to the pastoral life of the Cathedral. It was also an occasion to bid farewell to Alan Alvarado, our splendid seminarian from Allen Hall, who has completed his year with us. We also welcomed Fr Michael Marchlewski, from America, who has spent summer at Westminster Cathedral for the last twenty years - his advent is always a sign that summer has arrived. A joyful, but poignant, evening, marking most of all the momentous changes that are taking place in the Cathedral staff this year.

Above, pictured left to right in the Clergy House common room, are: Fr Tim Dean, Fr Michael Marchlewski, Fr Dwayne Bednar, Alan Alvarado (in front), Fr Slawomir Witon (sub-administrator), Fr Christopher Tuckwell (Administrator), Fr Michael Archer.

A Tentative Summer

2008-06-02T07:09:00.004Z

I came back to find that the plants on the Clergy House terrace were well established, although the recent cold, wet weather has not brought them on as much as might be expected. The sun-flowers are surging upward, and have been staked so that they do not block out light for plants below.

The fragrant nicotiana (in truth, a relative of the tobacco plant) is braving the cold, and is providing some gentle colour.

Nasturtiums are not nearly so reticent, and show forth a sunburst of bright flowers. These are edible, of course, should one feel peckish on the terrace!

The clergy heeded my pleas to water the plants while I was gone, but - as you can see - no weeding was done, so I will have to dive in this week!

Meanwhile in the courtyard of the complex (or 'base court' as Fr Tim has christened it), David Darby's garden is flourishing, providing a peaceful haven for staff and clergy.

Work gets underway

2008-05-31T07:50:00.004Z

Returning from my travels, I find the Cathedral nave already swathed in scaffolding; although the sight-lines to the sanctuary and processional routes are being kept clear, it is a considerable disruption.

Today is the Priestly Ordination of Edward Houghton and Thevakingsley Arulananthem - as well as a 'Day with Mary' devotions, and seven baptisms! The busy life of the Cathedral continues despite the scaffolding!

Footslogging

2008-05-17T02:58:00.000Z

This detail from our statue of St Peter signals yet another break - until the end of May. I'll continue the blog when I return, but issue advanced (and regretful) warning that the blog will conclude in June, as I prepare for a new post.

Hitchcock and Westminster Cathedral

2008-05-16T08:03:00.003Z

Alfred Hitchcock featured Westminster Cathedral in his 1940 thriller 'Foreign Correspondent'. Johnny Jones, the hero, is attacked by a Nazi assassin, who attempts to throw him from the Campanile. Jones steps aside in time, and the evil thug plunges instead to his death.

The film shows the entrance onto Ambrosden Avenue, now used for the Gift Shop, but in those days the principal public entrance to the Cathedral.

As Jones enters the Cathedral (the interior is not shown), it is pleasing to note two Daughters of Charity approaching, in their old wimples. This shows accurate local knowledge - the Daughters of Charity Convent is nearby in Carlisle Place.

The 'accident' is reported in the Press, with a helpful broken line marking the unfortunate assassin's trajectory.

Hitchcock was a Catholic, having attended St Ignatius Jesuit School in Enfield. Following his death in 1980, a Memorial Mass was held at Westminster Cathedral.

The Millennium Cross

2008-05-16T07:55:00.004Z

The Millennium Cross was erected in the Piazza to mark the Holy year 2000, as a visible proclamation of our Christian faith. Many Christians of all denominations contributed to it - most notably Her Majesty the Queen.

It was unveiled at a magnificent ceremony attended by Church leaders, and Prince Andrew. For many people, it also served as a memorial to the lately deceased Cardinal Basil Hume.

The cross was a striking image from Victoria Street; the Cathedral does not reveal its identity easily to unsuspecting passers-by, and it provoked much interest and comment.

The cross was removed at the end of the year and taken (by helicopter) to Ampleforth Abbey in Yorkshire where - minus titulus - it stands as a memorial to Cardinal Hume.

The Guild of St Gregory

2008-05-16T07:51:00.002Z

The Cathedral Altar Servers are organised in the Guild of St Gregory, which exists alongside the larger national body of the Guild of St Stephen. Here they are, above the porch of the Cathedral, in 1910.

The Howard Connexion

2008-05-15T09:16:00.008Z

A fine, large print of Cardinal Philip Howard (1629 - 1694) hangs in Clergy House. A Dominican, he is buried in Cardinal Cormac's titular church, Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, in Rome. The Howard family, which includes the Dukes of Norfolk, is one of the oldest English families and holds the premier Dukedom; despite high office under successive English monarchs, they retained their Catholic faith. Over the generations, the Howard family has had close connexions with Westminster Cathedral.

Henry Fitzalan-Howard (1847 - 1917), the 15th Duke, was a major supporter of the Catholic Church in the years following Catholic Emancipation, and founded the Catholic cathedrals at Arundel and Norwich. He was a significant contributor to funds for the building of Westminster Cathedral.

Miles Fitzalan-Howard (1915 - 2002), the 17th Duke, was a familiar figure at Westminster Cathedral and patron of several of our fundraising appeals. A warm and generous man, he provided considerable personal support to several Administrators (including me). On many occasions he welcomed the Friends of Westminster Cathedral to his home at Arundel Castle, and was a close person friend of Cardinal Cormac, who had previously been Bishop of Arundel and Brighton.

Edward Fitzalan Howard, the current Duke, continues the family tradition of support for Westminster Cathedral. Above, he and the Duchess view Elgar's manuscript of the Dream of Gerontius in the sacristy in 2003. The occasion was the centenary of the first London performance; on that previous occasion, the 15th Duke had been present in the Cathedral - a report is here. Looking on is Archbishop Michael Bowen, emeritus Archbishop of Southwark.

One of the highlights of the visit came when the Duke inspected the Howard plate or, as he jokingly called it, the 'family silver'. Above, Fr Tim Dean describes the pieces to the Duke.

The Howard plate was bequeathed to Westminster Cathedral by another illustrious member of the family, Cardinal Edward Henry Howard (1829 - 1892). Having served on the missions in India, Cardinal Howard became Archpriest of St Peter's Basilica in Rome. It is interesting to note that at that time there were three English members of the Sacred College (Cardinals Howard, Newman and Manning).

The Howard plate is italian silver-gilt. Each piece is decorated in 17th century style with scrolls, foliage and clouds, and set with bloodstones. Most display the coat of arms of the Cardinal.

Earlier Scaffolding

2008-05-15T08:35:00.003Z

The last time the interior of the Cathedral was inconvenienced by scaffolding was in 1995 when, for the Cathedral's centenary, the mosaic above the sanctuary was cleaned. The Administrator, Mgr Stack, was nothing averse to ascending on high - dressed, it would seem, for the job!

Work begins

2008-05-14T09:17:00.004Z

Preparations for the scaffolding that will soon go up inside the cathedral, for the works on the vaults. Here the floors and marble columns are being protected.

We will have to get used to living with this disruption for months to come.

Manning House

2008-05-14T09:08:00.006Z

Just two blocks from Clergy House, a fine Victorian building stands on the corner of Carlisle Place and Francis Street. Originally a Club for military officers, it was purchased by Westminster Diocese as the Archbishop's House for Cardinal Manning, second Archbishop of Westminster.

A plaque records the illustrious past of this building, now gutted and turned into modern offices.

It was from here that Cardinal Manning's funeral cortege set out in 1892, to take his body to Brompton Oratory for his funeral. His successor, Cardinal Vaughan, exchanged this building and the nearby plot of land for a larger one nearby - the present site of the Cathedral complex.

A painting in the Archbishop's Throne Room depictes Cardinal Manning's last audience, which would have taken place in 'Manning House.'

The etching above portrays the cardinal in the library of the same building.

Monsignor John Moyes

2008-05-13T20:50:00.006Z

Mgr Moyes, the second Administrator of Westminster Cathedral (1904 - 1905), was the first priest to celebrate Mass in the new building, in June 1903. A great scholar, apologist and preacher, he was a member of the Papal Commission on Anglican Orders in 1896.

Above are shown the three English representatives of that Papal Commission: Mgr Canon Moyes, Father David Fleming OFM, and Abbot (later Cardinal) Gasquet OSB.

In a small booklet, which he kept on his desk, Mgr Moyes wrote a number of rules for his own spiritual guidance. Among them was the following:
"However much I may be absorbed or employed in other duties; however much I may suceed in them, yet my labour will be lost time and my sucess a failure if it does not include the Mass devoutly offered and the Divine office devoutly recited."

An early trip to the Terrace

2008-05-13T09:13:00.009Z

A few images taken early this morning show that the Terrace is still in the early stages, but the recent spell of glorious weather has brought on many of the flowers and shrubs. In the back row, above, are sunflowers, already surging up.

In the fresh light of morning, the herbs promise abundance.

The Olive trees have lasted the winter well.

French lavender - less aromatic but more striking than its English cousin - adds a bright and fragrant note to the garden.

Provence comes to Westminster!
s

This is going to be a year for Nicotiana, the fragranced relative of the tobacco plant.

In the corner, Honeysuckle is about to burst into flower.

You can never go wrong with petunias while, below, even the citrus trees are making a good showing!

A Stamp of Authority

2008-05-13T02:24:00.003Z

The Royal Mail issued six new stamps today featuring British Cathedrals, and there we are on the 72p stamp. According to the accompanying press release, the designers had great difficulty in chosing their six; they sought buildings representing different styles, as well as different parts of the country.

The launch took place - somewhat confusingly - at St Paul's Cathedral - to mark the impending 300th anniversary of its completion.

David Hill

2008-05-12T07:58:00.006Z

I came upon this fine article about David Hill in the Cambridge University alumnus magazine.

Long recognized as one of Britain's most inspiring conductors, with the gift of injecting passion and a sense of fun into the most rigorous rehearsal, David Hill began his musical life in Manchester, gaining an organ scholarship to St John's, Cambridge. In 1982 he came to Westminster Cathedral in succession to Stephen Cleobury. He writes:

'Much of the John's repertoire - gregorian chant, renaissance catholic polyphony, Mozart and Haydn Masses - was central to Westminster... And the gutsy, incisive sound they had made since the days of George Malcolm was very much to my taste - the boys were a tad tentative at first, but before long I was thinking, God, this is a marvellous machine, cruising along like a finely tuned V8 engine.'

His Master's Voice

2008-05-12T07:57:00.001Z

Choristers listen to Vatican Radio via 'Marconiphone' in 1931.

Free Spirits

2008-05-11T14:17:00.003Z

I do love London: just now, sitting at my desk, the street outside was filled with roller skaters. Hundreds of them (taking several minutes to pass); they take to the streets every so often, just because they can! A great image of the Spirit who blows where he will ...

One more gift of the Holy Spirit

2008-05-11T14:10:00.004Z

Sister Mericia has excelled herself once more; following last year's stunning Pentecost cake (see it here), we were treated to this stunning confection at Sunday lunch. While most of us gazed in reverent admiration, the new sub-Administrator had no qualms about diving in and demolishing the creation!

Come, Holy Spirit

2008-05-11T12:12:00.004Z

The Cardinal confirmed thirty of our young adults at Mass today. Please keep them in your prayers.

Blinded by the Light

2008-05-11T11:53:00.001Z

Pentecost - rather difficult to see because of the incoming light - as shown in the mosaics in the Lady Chapel.

Mass for Marriage

2008-05-11T11:22:00.002Z

The splendid cover of the Mass booklet links yesterday's Mass for Married Couples with today's Feast of Pentecost. Over 700 couples with a combined total of more than 43,000 years of marriage celebrated their wedding anniversaries at a special Mass.

By personal invitation from Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor, couples from the Diocese of Westminster celebrating their 10th, 25th, 30th, 40th, 50th or 60th wedding anniversaries during 2008 gathered to give thanks, renew their vows and pray for their families and all marriages. The congregation included couples who have been married for over 60 years.

As part of the Mass, after the homily, the couples faced each other and gave an intention to continue to love one another, and were solemnly blessed by the Cardinal. The Mass received wide coverage, was carried on BBC news (link here), and was a wonderful sign of the value and blessings of married life.

Welcome Visitors

2008-05-10T11:08:00.007Z

A pair of blackbirds has nested by the front door of Clergy House, delighting us with their song, and boldly venturing ever further into the Cathedral complex. I just snapped the female while working at my desk.

A moment later, the male turned up. Then, struggling with my Pentecost sermon, I heard a sound above me ..

The female was joined by the male, and I gladly embraced this distraction from work!

The Pulpit

2008-05-10T02:30:00.005Z

The large cosmatesque pulpit is used on great feasts. Here it is shown with its splendid sounding board - later removed when the marble decoration on the piers was elaborated.

The pulpit was originally smaller, but was enlarged (to mark the jubilee of priesthood of Cardinal Bourne) so that it could accommodate the Archbishop's retinue - the bearer of the Metropolitan Cross, his train-bearer and Master of Ceremonies.

The Cathedral Chapter 1993

2008-05-10T02:23:00.003Z

The former Administrator, Patrick O'Donoghue, had recently been made auxiliary bishop of Westminster (front right). On the other side of the Provost, Mgr Frederick Miles, sits the late Bishop Philip Harvey, also auxiliary Bishop in Westminster. On the far left of the front row, Canon Oliver Kelly, another former Administrator.

Panoramic Interior

2008-05-09T16:06:00.001Z

I came across this rather splendid panorama of the interior of the Cathedral. it gives a real sense of the huge volume of the nave:
http://www.panoramicearth.com/75/London/Westminster_Cathedral,_London

Mass for Migrant Workers

2008-05-09T08:07:00.004Z

A few images from the Mass for Migrant workers, held at the Cathedral last Monday.

This has become an annual event, and allows the Church to be a voice for some of the most vulnerable members in our society.

The Burdens of Office

2008-05-09T08:03:00.001Z

The new Administrator, Fr Christopher, takes a moment out from wall-to-wall meetings ..

St Pius X

2008-05-08T08:51:00.002Z

A picture from the Cathedral in 1954, with prayers being offered at the image of the newly canonised Pope Pius X. Incidentally, you will note the marble covering of the piers has not yet arrived!

Work begins at the West Door

2008-05-07T12:51:00.003Z

The scaffolding has gone up as, as work begins to extend the entrance steps to include ramps providing access for all.

This work will take through until the Autumn - a long period necessitated by dividing the work into two halves, so that access to the Cathedral can be maintained during that period.

Together with the imminent scaffolding in the interior, it will mean a considerable disruption to the life of the Cathedral. However, these alterations will ensure that everyone can come through the main door - an important sign of welcome to God's House.

The 'Green Man'

2008-05-06T04:47:00.002Z

".. it seems appropriate to give .. a photograph of the 'Green Man' or 'janitor-librarian of the Eastern porch' without whose courteous assistance, on payment of your sixpence, all access to the Campanile is inexorably barred. Seargeant Crooke has been elsewhere well described as 'the guide, philosopher and friend of the unaccustomed visitor to the Cathedral'; to its habitues his many qualities need no description." (Cathedral Chronicle 1919)

Seargent Crooke, standing at the old entrance to the Cathedral (now the Gift Shop) is an early member of that numerous host who have given generous service to the Cathedral over the decades, and have become part of its story.

Cardinal's Mass with Altar Servers

2008-05-05T08:00:00.004Z

The annual Mass for altar servers, organised by the Guild of St Stephen, took place on Saturday. It is always a delight to see the Cathedral filled with servers from all parts of the diocese. Many priests also attend this joyful occasion.

It is a poignant event for me; the first time I saw Westminster Cathedral was as a young server at this annual Mass (in those days, the servers all attended the Chrism Mass, and so the link to a priestly vocation was emphasised).

It is good to see so many young people faithfully committed to serving Mass - and I am sure that the nearby branch of McDonalds was equally delighted afterwards!

Wedding to the Sea

2008-05-05T07:57:00.002Z

We faithfully continue each year the Ascension Day ceremony of Lo Sposalizio, when Venice is wed to the sea - with some obliging choristers standing for Doges and Senators.

The New Administrator

2008-05-04T04:28:00.016Z

This weekend I am stepping down as Administrator, to take sabbatical leave before starting in a new post later in the year. I will remain at the Cathedral until July, and will continue the blog until then.

I am delighted to announce that the new Administrator of Westminster Cathedral is Fr Christopher Tuckwell and the new sub-Administrator will be Fr Slawomir Witon. Fr Christopher and Fr Slawomir are both well known to Cathedral parishioners, and will bring a wealth of talent, enthusiasm and vision to this great House of God. These appointments take place with immediate effect. I do ask, especially, that you will keep Fr Christopher in your prayers at this time.

It is perhaps fitting on this the occasion to offer a gallery of all the Cathedral Administrators. I believe that this is the first occasion such a collection has been complied - surprisingly, some of the Administrators make little appearance in the archives.

Mgr Patrick Fenton 1894 - 1904

Mgr John Moyes 1904 - 1905

Mgr Martin Howlett 1905 - 1947

Mgr Cuthbert Collingwood 1947 - 1954

Mgr Gordon Wheeler 1954 - 1964

Mgr George Tomlinson 1964 - 1967

Mgr Francis Bartlett 1967 - 1977

Mgr Oliver Kelly 1977 - 1990

Mgr Patrick O'Donoghue 1990 - 1993

Mgr George Stack 1993 - 2001

Mgr Mark Langham 2001 - 2008

Fr Christopher Tuckwell

Gifts of Bread and Wine

2008-05-03T07:54:00.001Z

Marcin Mazur's beautiful picture of the offertory vessels at High Mass in the Cathedral.

Tothill Fields

2008-05-02T08:12:00.003Z

Browsing through a book of engravings by Wenceslaus Hollar (1607 - 1677), the Czech artist who worked in 17th century England, I came across these interesting images. Above, Tothill Fields, south of Westminster Abbey, in about 1640. The Abbey (called by its proper name 'St Peters at Westminster' stands at the centre of the picture, not yet adorned with its Hawksmore Towers at the west end. This area lay in what was then countryside, and was well known to Samuel Pepys, who records having an 'assignation' there!

Later, the area was used to house prisoners from the Jacobite rebellion, and subsequently, Tothill Prison was erected on the site, later to become the Millbank House of Correction.

Of interest to us, of course, is that this is where Westminster Cathedral would one day stand - the site of the Cathedral is towards the left of the engraving.

In another engraving (here shown in two parts), Westminster and London are shown from the south bank of the Thames, at Lambeth Palace. The image above again shows the countryside beyond Westminster - Tothill Fields and the site of the Cathedral are under the 'S' of Westminster.

The continuation of thus magnificent engraving shows Westminster Abbey (again, minus its towers), and to its right St Stephen's Hall (later destroyed by fire) and Westminster Hall. In the foreground, Lambeth Palace, the London residence of the Archbishops of Canterbury.

The Feast of St Joseph

2008-05-01T08:57:00.004Z

Images from the Chapel of St Joseph for today's feast. The design is the work of Christopher Hobbs, and was completed only two years ago.

The west wall of the Chapel shows the workshop of st Joseph, but also cleverly relates to the construction of the Cathedral.

The ceiling of the chapel resembles wicker-work, another reference to the workshop of St Joseph. The Cardinal's hat belongs to Cardinal Hinsley, buried in the chapel.

The Month of Our Lady

2008-05-01T08:52:00.002Z

For the beginning of May, some images of Our Lady from the Mass celebrated earlier this year for Our Lady of Lourdes.

A meditation

2008-04-30T08:05:00.002Z

I came across this in a novel I'm reading: Night Train to Lisbon, by Pascal Mercier. Out of context, with the author clearly having a different style of architecture in mind, it is nevertheless an attractive and thought provoking passage:

I would not like to live in a world without Cathedrals. I need their beauty and their grandeur. I need them against the vulgarity of the world. I want to look up at the illuminated church windows and let myself be blinded by the unearthly colours. I need their lustre. I need it against the dirty colours of the uniforms. I want to let myself be wrapped in the austere coolness of the churches. I need their imperious silence. I need it against the witless bellowing of the barracks yard and the witty chatter of the yes-men. I want to hear the rustling of the organ, this deluge of etherial tones. I need it against the shrill farce of marches. I love praying people. I need the sight of them. I need it against the malicious poison of the superficial and the thoughtless. I want to read the powerful words of the Bible. I need the unreal force of their poetry. I need it against the delapidation of the language and the dictatorship of slogans. A world without these things would be a world I would not like to live in.

A glance from the Grand Organ

2008-04-29T08:29:00.001Z

Matthew Martin, currently acting Master of Music during Martin Baker's sabbatical term, can just be spotted looking out from the gallery of the Grand Organ.

A Dear Friend of the Cathedral's Music

2008-04-29T08:24:00.002Z

I spotted the obituary of Noel Davies in the Times last week. Noel was a long standing, and much respected, conductor of English National Opera, highly regarded for his stylish conducting of Mozart, Handel and Puccini.

He was also a passionate supporter of the Cathedral's music. Each Sunday, when in London, he was present for Morning Prayer followed by the High Sung Mass, and would never fail to register his appreciation. He became a friend of the then Master of Music, James O'Donnell, and was generous in financial and personal support. May he rest in peace.

Modern Life - c 1913

2008-04-28T07:07:00.003Z

The Tate gallery is hosting an exhibition of modern painters known as the 'Camden Town Group'. It includes this painting by Charles Ginner, entitled The Sunlit Square, Victoria Station 1913. Clearly visible is the tower of Westminster Cathedral (then less than ten years old) rising above the red brick mansions on Vauxhall Bridge Road.

The Wedding Season

2008-04-27T09:09:00.003Z

A lovely picture from 1934 of a Cathedral wedding.

Thanks for all your prayers and messages during my bout of Shingles. Again, I cannot promise regular postings, but hope to be returning to full health, and duties, before long.

Maundy Thursday - and another break

2008-04-07T14:26:00.002Z

A beautiful image from Marcin Mazur of the Cardinal washing the feet of the Chelsea Pensioners on Maundy Thursday.

With which, I must take your leave for another couple of weeks. Continuing ill health necessitates a longer period of absence, at least until the end of April. I apologize sincerely for these intermittent postings, and hope that I may be able to return to full strength, and Cathedral life, as soon as possible.

Aid to the Church in Need

2008-04-07T09:23:00.003Z

Lord Alton and Fr Alexander Sherbrooke with Neville Kyrke-Smith and members of the ACN, publicising their timely campaign in support of Christians in China. We have a long association with ACN, whose tireless work highlights the plight of Christians who face persecution or starvation throughout the world.

More Snow

2008-04-06T11:47:00.003Z

Following our white Easter, it seemed that spring was here, with bright skies and warm days. However, this weekend the weather has turned back the clock, and snow flutters down. Never enough to be picturesque, just enough to be miserable ..

Above, the view behind the Cathedral, looking south towards Vauxhall and the river.

The "Westminster Paintings"

2008-04-05T10:11:00.006Z

In this picture from September 1955, the sacristy is dominated the 'Westminster Paintings', the organ doors from San Bartolomeo in Vincenza, which came to the Cathedral via Norfolk House. They are long gone, sold at some later stage. Incidentally, in the right hand case you can glimpse Bishop Challoner's tin mitre, now at St Edmund's College in Hertfordshire. The other treasures are still with us and regularly used.

The Cardinal's Lecture series

2008-04-04T09:24:00.006Z

Last evening, the Cathedral hosted the first in the series of lectures on 'Faith and Life in Britain'. Former Prime Minster Tony Blair spoke (for the first time in public) about his faith, but his theme was about the need for faith to play a greater role at the global level. As economies and politics grow ever more universal, faith has an essential contribution to make to ensure that true values are respected.

Mr Blair also spoke about his Faith Foundation, encouraging young people of different faiths to learn more about each other - an essential development if extremism is to be combatted. You can see a video of the speech and comment on it at the Diocesan website http://www.rcdow.org.uk/lectures/

The lecture also received good coverage this morning on the radio and in the newspapers. The items below appeared in the Independent.

For us, the lecture involved a huge security operation, which involved closing the entire complex from noon, not being permitted to open post, and dog searches of every room. On such occasions, staff and clergy are preoccupied with security, rather than participating in the event itself.

There was a sizeable demonstration against Mr Blair's presence; Pax Christi staged a silent protest before the lecture, while during it large crowds representing various groups surrounded the Cathedral and used intruments, loud-hailers and sirens to try to drown it out. Above was the scene in Francis Street, behind the Cathedral, during the lecture.

In the Apse

2008-03-28T08:28:00.003Z

An image of the Cathedral choir singing in the Apse on Easter Sunday Morning. This posting signals another short recuperative break, I'm afraid. I will be back on 3 April.

Easter Vestment

2008-03-27T09:03:00.002Z

One of our fine vestements, in use this Easter season, boasts a beautiful image of the Paschal Lamb.

The Cathedral Mace Bearer

2008-03-26T09:09:00.003Z

Albert Denehan is a well - known parishioner, who assists us in many ways. His most ceremonial role, however, is as Cathedral Mace Bearer, in which guise he leads the liturgical procession at Easter and Christmas. He is pictured above just before the sung Mass on Easter morning, outside the sacristy.

I'm not sure of the liturigical significance of it, but it certainly adds a dignity to the proceedings. The Cathedral treasury boasts two Maces, and they have been borne in procession for many years.

Sr Mericia's Miracle

2008-03-25T08:28:00.003Z

Last year, Sister Mericia (of the community of Portuguese nuns who look after Clergy House) provded a stunning Easter cake - pictures of it are here. We wondered if she could equal that magnificent creation this year. She did - or rather, surpassed it!

The Paschal Lamb is portrayed upon the table of the Last Supper, with the bread and wine of the Eucharist ranged about.

There are stools (in solid chocolate!) set around the table.

The table is covered with a cloth, embroided with eucharistic symbols of grapes and wheat.

Mass of Easter Day

2008-03-24T01:30:00.003Z

It was standing room only in the Cathedral on Sunday morning, for the Solemn Mass at 10.30

Above, Albert Denehan carries the Administrator's Mace at the head of the liturgical procession.

The choir was at its best; Holy Week is an intensely moving time, and the music deepens and expresses the religious mood.

At 3,500 in the congregation, we had to close the doors of the Cathedral, for reasons of health and safety. Numbers were significantly up on last year - despite the wintry weather!

Here, the Cardinal presides at the throne at the beginning of Mass.

Christ is Risen, Alleluia!

2008-03-23T09:18:00.002Z

The Cathedral looked never more beautiful than at the Easter Vigil. We celebrated the resurrection of the Lord with a packed Cathedral, and welcomed 22 new members of the Church.

However, we felt we should be in another season, singing 'See, amid the winter's snow', as the wintry weather set in.

Blessing of Food

2008-03-22T15:31:00.003Z

A popular ceremony that has become an established part of the Holy Saturday routine at the Cathedral is the Blessing of Food, a Polish custom, but one now enjoyed by many families.

Fr Slawek and Fr Dwayne celebrate a bi-lingual ceremony, and ask God's blessing for prosperity and plenty in the coming year.

Awaiting the Resurrection

2008-03-22T15:19:00.007Z

Many thanks for your patience and kind messages - and above all your prayers - during my illness. I am not fully recovered and will not be returning to work for a while, but can at least begin posting again, even if not on a daily basis. Marcin Mazur has been taking images of the Holy Week ceremonies, and I hope to post them soon.

Today, Holy Saturday, is a day of waiting. Christ lies in the tomb, and the desolation is symbolised by the bare altars, empty tabernacles and covered images in the Cathedral. Above is the Blessed Sacrament altar, denuded of decoration, and the presence of the Lord.

As far as the Cathedral is concerned, this is also a busy day of preparation for the summit of the Christian year, the Easter Vigil celebrated this evening. Above, the candlesticks and other items stand beside the main sanctuary, ready to be restored for this evening.

I noted the handbells, to be used for the strepitus - the half-minute of joyful cacophany - during the Gloria.

Not to be forgotten, the Easter Eggs that will be distributed to children after Masses tomorrow.

Update

2008-03-07T19:28:00.002Z

I am afraid that illness continues to lay me low, and that I shall be out of action at least until Easter. I hope to return to the blog as soon as possible after that.

Apologies

2008-02-14T10:43:00.001Z

Apologies for the gaps in postings; these are due to illness, and I will have to take some time off to recover.

Westminster Bishops

2008-02-14T09:44:00.002Z

The Cardinal processes from the Cathedral with his four auxiliaries; from the left, Bishop George Stack, Bishop Bernard Longley, Bishop Alan Hopes, Bishop John Arnold. This picture was taken at the funeral of another auxiliary Bishop - James O'Brien - last year.

Our Lady of Lourdes 1918

2008-02-13T09:01:00.003Z

Cardinal Bourne leaving the Cathedral on 26 May 1918, on a procession of intercession to Our Lady of Lourdes. It was given a particular urgency by World War, then raging. The Cathedral Chronicle paints the scene:

"As an outward manifextation of devotion to our Blessed Lady, a more striking and impressive procession than that of Sunday May 26 would be idfficult to surpass... All the contingents from the various London parishes of the diocese were ready in their appointed places when this fine demonstration of Catholic faith in our Blessed Lady of Lourdes, and in the efficacy of prayer as the final death-blow to this appalling war. The procession took exactly one hour and twenty minutes to pass a given point. The route through the streets, in parts crowded with respectful onlookers, in the vicinity of the Cathedral was exactly a mile long, but the leaders got back to their starting point by the time the last of the processionists (averaging four abreast) passed the Cathedral door.

"The streets were filled with a living stream of colour; blue, of course, predominated, but there were splashes of vivid reds, the rainbow hues of the little Italian girls in national peasant costumes. The Cardinal walked in his flaming scarlet cappa magna, followed by the Bishop of Brentwood, and a number of Monsignori, Canons and priests, with a rearguard of able and wounded soldiers."

Another break

2008-02-08T10:17:00.000Z

Away for a few days - with apologies. The blog will recommence next week.

The Proscenium Arch

2008-02-08T10:15:00.000Z

Gilbert Pownall's mosaics above the High Altar seen from the north gallery.

Clergy House Oratory

2008-02-07T09:20:00.000Z

We have always been fortunate to have a peaceful oratory within Clergy House; it is a great privilege to have the Blessed Sacrament in a quiet place at the centre of the house. It is also helpful to have a place where priests may celebrate Mass or the Divine Office on their day off, besides being of considerable advantage to elderly or infirm residents.

Although small, the oratory is exquisitely furnished, thanks to the taste and abilities of Mgr Anthony Bartlett, former Administrator. The altar frontal is 17th century, in antique velvet.

The crucfix is a large 18th century ivory, of surpassing beauty.

Beside the altar is a 17th century Spanish image of Our Lady of the Assumption, serenely beautiful as she is carried on high by cherubs.

The long flowing hair is typical of representations of Our Lady from this epoch.

Remember, Man, that Thou art Dust ...

2008-02-06T14:44:00.000Z

Again, this year, Fr Christopher set about burning last year's Palms, to create the Ash for today's Masses. The strong wind prevented him from using the terrace (as last year), so he opted for the more sheltered region of the courtyard - whence I spied upon him.

Fr Christopher was aided by Fr Slawek, and David Darby from the Archbishop's House print room. Ash was plentifully created, ensuring that there was plenty available for the large corwds that attended Masses today.

A short break

2008-01-27T08:35:00.000Z

I will be away until 7 February, so there will be a break in the blog until then.

St Ambrose

2008-01-27T08:31:00.000Z

This beautiful study for St Ambrose has been created by the young artist Sandro Kopp, as the basis of a mosaic that (together with St Augustine) will be placed at the entrance to st Paul's chapel. Sandro based the study on near-contemporary mosaics of Ambrose.

The Cardinal's Lectures

2008-01-26T10:11:00.000Z

Mark Thompson, Director General of the BBC, is one of the speakers at the Cardinal’s Lectures, when leading public figures will examine ‘Faith and Life in Britain’.

Mark Thompson, Dr. Rowan Williams (Archbishop of Canterbury), William Hague M.P. (The Shadow Foreign Secretary) and Rabbi Julia Neuberger (The Prime Minister’s Champion for Volunteering), are amongst the leading public figures who are to present of six lectures to be held at Westminster Cathedral at 7.00pm on Thursday evenings from 3rd April to 8th May 2008. Admission to the lectures is by free ticket.

Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor said:
“What is the role of Christianity in a multi-cultural Britain and how can we collaborate with our neighbours of other religions? Are there outstanding examples from history which might illustrate the importance of faith in public life and the role of Parliament? There are many challenges that face religious communities in presenting their message in the secular society and the role of religion in the media is an important aspect of our life today.”

“During Spring 2008, ‘The Cardinal’s Lectures’ will give an opportunity for leading public figures to address these and related issues at Westminster Cathedral. It promises to be a stimulating and provocative series of lectures which will help to illuminate the relationship between faith and life in Britain.”

Details of The Cardinal’s Lectures

Mark Thompson – Director General of the BBC: Faith in the Media. Thursday 10th April 2008.
Dr Rowan Williams – Archbishop of Canterbury: The spiritual and the religious: is the territory changing? Thursday 17th April 2008.
William Hague M.P. – Shadow Foreign Secretary. Practical politics, principled faith. Thursday 24th April 2008.
Rabbi Julia Neuberger – The Prime Minister’s Champion for Volunteering. Faith, morality, giving time to others. Thursday 1st May 2008.
Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O’Connor – Archbishop of Westminster. Faith in Britain: a personal perspective. Thursday 8th May 2008
The opening lecture, on Thursday 3rd April 2008 will be delivered by a guest speaker whose details will be confirmed immediately prior to the start of the lecture series.

Tickets for ‘The Cardinal’s Lectures’ can be obtained online at www.rcdow.org.uk/lectures, by e-mail to lectures2008@rcdow.org.uk , by phoning 020 7931 6028 or by sending an s.a.e. to Lectures 2008, Vaughan House, 46 Francis Street, London SW1P 1QN.

In the Chapel of St Paul

2008-01-25T08:51:00.000Z

For the feast of his Conversion, a visit to St Paul's chapel. In the early days of the Cathedral, it was thought that decoration of this chapel might be funded as a think offering by those who, like St Paul, were converts. However, donations were slow. In 1913, Mrs Caroline Sambourne-Palmer offered to pay for the work if the chapel might be made a memorial to her parents, John and Anna-Maria Ansty. This enabled the marbles to be added in 1917. Rather movingly, the white marble of the altar steps is pentellic from Athens, recalling that St Paul preached in that great city.

Above the altar, a triptych of glit bronze shows the saint in high relief bearing a sword, his symbol. This not only recalls the manner of his death, but the power of his preaching - active like a 'two-edged sword'.

As ever, the different styles of mosaics in the Cathedral tell their own story, and signal the era in which they were created. These mosaics date from 1963. Boris Anrep, the celebrated Russian artist, had just completed the mosaics in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, but was now too old to attempt another commission. Instead, he agreed to supervise his pupil and protege, Justin Vulliamy, helping to design the figures, but leaving the final details and execution to the younger artist. In the end, Anrep felt unhappy with the work, and refused to be associated with it.

The scene of the conversion is depicted upon the back wall, with Jerusalem and Damascus depicted, in traditional form, on either side of the scene. The Latin inscription reads SURGE ET INGREDERE CIVITATEM, ET IBI DICETUR TIBI QUID TE OPORTEAT FACERE (Arise and go to the city, and you will be told what to do - Acts 6:9).

The vault of the chapel is depicted as a huge canvas awning - a reminded that Paul, in his earlier life, had been a maker of tents.

The mosaic tesserae were created in Venice, and were fixed in situ by the firm of Zanelli Ltd.

The College of Chaplains 1995

2008-01-24T05:11:00.000Z

The college was photographed 0n 29 June 1995, the centenary of the foundation of the Cathedral. We are wearing the summer cappas, and there are a few familiar faces! Notable, also, are two of our Portuguese sisters:
Back Row Left to Right: Sr Anna-Teresa Roper DC, Fr Michael Archer, Fr Shaun Lennard, Fr Thomas Allen, Fr George Lyons, Sr Arcelina, Sr Maria Augusta, Fr Michael Seed SA
Front Row Left to Right: Fr Norman Brown, Fr Philip Whitmore (Precentor), Fr Mark Langham (sub-Administrator), Mgr George Stack (Administrator), Mgr David Norris, Fr Daniel Cronin (Master of Ceremonies), Fr Timothy Dean (Prefect of Sacristy).

Anything Missing?

2008-01-23T05:00:00.000Z

The picture above was taken in 1934, when the new mosaics by Gilbert Pownall we installed over the sanctuary. In order the better to see them, Cardinal Bourne ordered the Great Rood be taken down, and placed against the wall at the back of the Cathedral.

The outcry was considerable; the mosaics were considered of inferior quality, and Pownall's designs for the apse dome were abandoned after pressure from the artistic community. The mosaics above the altar remained, but were allowed to become obscured through soot and smoke (as I child, I recall that they were all but invisible). The Rood was, of course, returned to its position over the sanctuary.

Also of interest in this picture: the marble galleries are not yet built, and indeed the Gill Stations can be seen against bare brickwork. On the right side, a temporary pulpit (with sounding board!) has been erected halfway down the nave, overshadowing the smaller original pulpit nearer the sanctuary.

In the Bleak Midwinter

2008-01-22T01:39:00.000Z

Lots of rain at the moment - but here are memories of a more picturesque winter. In January 1991 I managed to take these pictures.

A Prayer in the Darkness

2008-01-21T05:53:00.000Z

An evocative image of candles before the image of Our Lady of Westminster.

The First Administrator meets the Pope

2008-01-20T05:18:00.000Z

Monsignor Canon Patrick Fenton was Administrator of Westminster Cathedral from 1894 - 1904, that is, from shortly before laying the foundation stone to shortly after the opening of the Cathedral. Inevitably, much of his tenure was taken up with fundraising for the new building.

In 1896, he toured the Continent, and headed at once for Rome:

"When the Cardinal Archbishop of Westminster entrusted me with the noble mission of collecting for our great Cathedral on the continent of Europe, my first thought was to seek those limina Apostolorum, which have ever been the loadstone of the priests and bishops of God's Church in earth."

In Rome, he was to be received by Pope Leo, but was held up by the delayed arrival of the drawings and plans of the intended Cathedral: "The promised plans and designs had not reached me, and Cardinal Rampolla, the Pontifical Secretary of State - the keenest and most courteous of diplomats - assured me that the Holy Father's sollicitude would be more aroused, and his pastoral joy greater, if he saw the picture and more detailed drawings which were on their way."

Eventually the plans arrived, and the measurements and notes converted into Italian. Mgr Fenton was granted an audience woth Pope Leo XIII on 30 April:

"Monsignor Merry del Val stood by my side .. On this occasion he simplified my task by gently prompting me when occasionally the Pope wandered from French into Italian.

.. I rose from my knees, and carefully laid out the plans of Westminster Cathedral, which he silently scrutinised for some moments, taking in every technical detail of nave, aisles, altars and crypts, especially the latter.. The comparison between the Metropolitan Cathedral and St Paul's, London, was a leading theme of our colloquy."

The Pope noted that building the Cathedral would involve a tremendous outlay of funds. Mgr Fenton replied:

"Holy Father, our Cardinal Archbishop's intention is to construct the shell of a Cathedral with High Altar, canons' stalls and all that is essential to Divine Worship, whuch can be a achieved in three years at a cost of £15,000. The work of internal decoration may be handed over to the next generation.

"The Pope was curious to know how an English architect could have evolved a design which so accurately develops the early Chrisitan Basilica in its plenitude. I then informed him that Mr Bentley, the architect, had been in Italy for six months to study this very style at its fountain head. The Holy Father exclaimed: "Now I understand. And he has not lost his time, for it will be a noble cathedral, and I congratulate him." Looking at the etching of the interior, he added naively, "I suppose you are going to use white marble?" "Certainly," I unthinkingly answered; whereupon, with a twinkle in his eye, and shaking his forefinger, Leo XIII said: "Don't! When I went to St Paul's they showed me some black marble, which they assured me was white! You have too much smoke in London, tell Cardinal Vaughan, for white marble."

The Pope contributed £1,000 to the building of the Cathedral. His name is duly inscribed in the sacristy, at the head of the list of donors, as a Founder of Westminster Cathedral.

The Royal Seat

2008-01-19T10:53:00.000Z

The chair and kneeler especially made for Her Majesty the Queen, when she visited the Cathedral in 1995 - the first British Monarch to attend a Roman Catholic Liturgy since the Reformation. It is kept in St George's chapel.

Launching the Cathedral Appeal

2008-01-18T08:54:00.000Z

We received good Press coverage yesterday and today: the above picture is from this morning's Times newspaper, showing the latest in ecclesiastical headgear!

The London Evening Standard gave us good coverage:

In the Metro, Sr Maria do Ceu (one of our beloved Portuguese sisters) emerged as quite a star!

Indeed, in the Press Association photographs, she was quite the centre of attention.

Fr Archer and Sr Angelina looked rather splendid also! There was also good coverage by the BBC, and the appeal featured on the lunchtime and evening news. The BBC website shows the clip - go to the page below, and then click the item on the right about the Cathedral to see the report:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/default.stm

There is also a page on the BBC website

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/7193853.stm

Ruth Gledhill, religious correspondent of the Times, has a good piece on her blog, here.
Background information can be found on the Independent Catholic News website, here.

A busy time indeed, and some fun was had - but the cause is a serious one, unglamorous but absolutely necessary. It is gratifiying to have received so many messages and dnations already, a mark of how much this great Church is loved.

if you wish to make a donation, you can do so on the Westminster Diocesan Website, here.