There was so much packed into the almost three hours that it is difficult to capture more than the key highlights. The ceremony started at 11.00 am when we sang Morning Prayer (Lauds) and then Terce creating an atmosphere of prayer. Between these offices, the long lines of priests, deacons and seminarians from Westminster and Birmingham made their way to the front of the Nave. Then followed the long procession of ecumenical visitors, concelebrating priests and Bishops – we could see Bishop Terry and Bishop John (looking in good health), and finally after visiting Cardinals, Cardinal Cormac.

Photo Courtesy of Marcin Mazur/CCN

As we stood, the Provost and Canons of Westminster led by the Cathedral Mace made their way through the Cathedral to the West Door which was closed. Then as the Cathedral Bell rang out at noon, the West Door opened and the Archbishop elect came in to a fanfare of trumpets. He made his way slowly up the aisle looking rather tense. When they reached the Sanctuary, Bishop John Arnold, the Diocesan Chancellor, read the letter of Appointment from the Holy Father, after which the Provost led the Archbishop to the Throne and placed him in it. Cardinal Cormac then presented to Archbishop Vincent the Crozier giving him pastoral care of the Diocese. The Archbishop of Canterbury then welcomed him on behalf of Churches Together in England.

Photo Courtesy of Marcin Mazur/CCN

The Archbishop in strong voice intoning the Gloria led us into the Mass. His sister-in-law and his secretary in Birmingham read the lessons and after the Gospel, the Archbishop made his way to the pulpit giving a big smile to his relatives. In his homily, he paid a most gracious thanks and appreciation to Cardinal Cormac, and then spoke strongly of the importance of faith in a very secular world around us.

The offertory gifts were brought forward by the Archbishop’s close family, and Mass proceeded as normal. After Holy Communion, the Archbishop was led through the Cathedral giving his blessing as we sang the Te Deum. He stopped for a moment of prayer at Cardinal Hume’s grave on his way through the Cathedral.

After a few words from the Papal Nuncio, Cardinal Cormac addressed the Archbishop and congregation, and within a couple of minutes, his comments had plenty of joy and laughter for all.

Photo Courtesy of Marcin Mazur/CCN

The ceremony ended to the hymn ‘Praise to the Holiest in the height’ and there was spontaneous applause as Cardinal Cormac, followed by the Archbishop, made their way through the Cathedral to the Piazza outside where the Archbishop was greeted with cheers and applause as we greeted the crowd gathered to welcome him.

Ad Multos Annos.

Dr Jim Whiston