At the Catacombs

The group has just arrived at the Catacombs of San Callisto for a tour of this ancient Christian burial ground. Here are the pilgrims waiting outside for their tour to begin. Mass will follow the tour.

The Cathedral Church of Rome

The pilgrims have just visited the Basilica of St John Lateran, the Cathedral Church of Rome. As the seat of the Pope it is the mother church of the Diocese of Rome and of the world. Lunch is next, followed by a visit to the Catacombs for a tour and Mass.

St Paul's Outside the Walls

First stop on this final day in Rome is the Basilica of St Paul, outside the city walls. Here there are mosaics of all 265 Popes, in order. The group is currently having a tour of this fine church, where St Paul himself is buried.

A night view from the roof terrace

After a free day our Cathedral pilgrims are now returning to the hotel, ready for the evening meal. Those in the group who have visited the hotel's roof terrace can see the view pictured here. Unfortunately this image isn't very good quality, but you can make out the world famous Colosseum in the top left corner. Don't forget that you can enlarge any image on the blog by clicking on it, and we will post some higher quality images after the pilgrimage.

Free time in Rome

Today our pilgrims have a free day. A number are visiting the Vatican museums and the Sistine Chapel, and no doubt everyone has a place or two they would like to visit. The day started early with Mass in the crypt of St Peter's; here you can see the group walking towards the Basilica first thing this morning.

Relics of the Passion of Our Lord

Before returning to the hotel our pilgrims called in at the church of the Holy Cross, where there are relics of the Passion, brought to Rome by St Helena, mother of the Emperor Constantine. The relics have been a focus for devotion since that time, and the group said prayers together in the relics chapel. A free evening is ahead, followed by an early Mass at St Peter's Basilica tomorrow morning.

Returning to Rome

After a wonderful day trip to Subiaco the pilgrims are now heading back to Rome. Back in the city there will be a chance to visit the Basilica of the Holy Cross, which contains relics of the Passion. A free evening will follow. The picture here shows members of the group looking out to the hills around Subiaco; as always, you can click on the image for a larger version.

In the footsteps of St Benedict

Our Cathedral pilgrims have just been to Mass after a tour of the wonderful monastery in the hills above Subiaco. Here they visited the cave where St Benedict lived and seen many ancient wall paintings. Next it's back into Subiaco for lunch.

At Subiaco

High in the hills east of Rome, the group has arrived at the Benedictine monastery at Subiaco. It's a very beautiful location. A tour is about to begin and Mass will follow.

A day trip to Subiaco

Here the group is boarding the coach for a day trip to Subiaco, where St Benedict lived. The day will include a tour of the monastery there and the celebration of Mass. We're not sure how well our mobile technology will work in this more remote area, so if there are no posts for a while you know why. Either way, there will be posts at some point later today.

The Basilica of St Mary

This evening the group had Mass in a chapel in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore - St Mary Major - which is one of the four major basilicas of Rome. There was also a brief visit to the church of Santa Prassede, famous for its mosaics, and the church of St Peter in Chains. Tomorrow there's a day trip to Subiaco, where St Benedict founded his first monastic community.

Our friends at the NAC

After the excitement of this morning's Papal Audience, the group had some free time. Canon Stephen and Fr Andrew went to visit two familiar faces at the North American College (NAC): Deacon Nolan Lowry and his fellow student Bill Brunner. Both Nolan and Bill have spent time on placement at the Cathedral. Here they are on the roof of the NAC, with a fine view of St Peter's behind.

After the Audience

The Audience has now finished and the Pope is greeting some of those present. Here some members of the group look out over the square, which is still packed as people wait to see the Holy Father leave. The Popemobile has just arrived, ready for the return journey!

With the Holy Father

A few moments ago Pope Benedict offered greetings to all the English speaking pilgrims present at the audience. As the Cathedral parish was amounced he looked towards the group and gave a wave. This is the view the pilgrims are seeing; the Pope is just a short distance away. As always, you can click on the image for a larger version. In a few moments the Holy Father will give a blessing, which he extends to family and friends at home.

The crowds gather

The square is filling up, as it does every Wednesday. People are here from all parts of the world. Many have brought banners and flags, and groups are singing. Among those here today is Cardinal Keith O'Brien, Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh. The Cardinal is well known to us in Lancaster, having visited the Cathedral twice in the last two years. 35 minutes to go until the Pope arrives!

Awaiting the Holy Father

The pilgrims have passed through all the security checks and have taken their seats ready for the audience. There's now quite a wait before the Pope arrives. You can watch the audience live on EWTN - Sky channel 589 or ewtn.com. Keep your ears open as the Cathedral group should be mentioned at some point. Keep your eyes open too - the group is sat right in front of the Basilica over to the right hand side.

Off to see the Pope

This morning our pilgrims in Rome are heading for St Peter's Square, to see the Holy Father at his weekly general audience. It starts at 9.3Oam English time; there will be a further update on the blog on arrival at the square.

Mass at the English College

The main chapel of the English College has been undergoing a two-year restoration programme and reopened earlier this month. The result is stunning, and we plan to post some high quality images on return to England. Meanwhile here is a view looking down on the altar. Here Canon Stephen, who trained at this college, celebrated a Votive Mass of the college's martyrs earlier this afternoon. This evening some members of the group will visit the Trevi Fountain, and tomorrow morning we're off to see the Pope. Check the blog from 9.3Oam English time.

A tour of the English College

Our pilgrims are currently taking a look around the Venerable English College, the oldest British institution abroad. Founded in 1579, it continues to train priests for the English and Welsh dioceses. Our guide is Tony, a student for the Diocese of Shrewsbury.

Lunchtime in Rome

This is the scene now in St Peter's Square. The group had an excellent tour of the Basilica this morning, followed by a chance to visit the crypt, where many of the Popes are buried. This afternoon there will be Mass in the English College, followed by a tour.

Tour of St Peter's Basilica

The group is fitted out with audio sets so that we can hear our guide properly. Let the tour commence!

In the Vatican City

The group of Cathedral pilgrims has just arrived at the Vatican, where they will have a tour of St Peter's Basilica. It's an impressive sight! Click on the picture for a larger version.

First Mass of the pilgrimage

This evening the first Mass of the pilgrimage was celebrated in the church of Sts John and Paul, pictured. It took place in a side chapel which contains the body of St Paul of the Cross, founder of the Passionist order. It's been a long day and a quiet evening is ahead. Tomorrow brings a trip to the Vatican and Mass at the English College. Keep up to date on the blog as the trip progresses. In the meantime, don't forget that you can enlarge the pictures by clicking on the image.

The Basilica of San Clemente

The group has just had a tour of San Clemente, one of Rome's most important churches. It dates from the 12th century, but is built over the remains of a 4th century church and - beneath that - a temple of Mithras from the 1st century BC. Next the group will celebrate Mass in a nearby church.

At the hotel

Here's a view of the street just outside the hotel where the Cathedral group is staying. Everyone has arrived safely and had lunch. Next on the programme is a visit to the Basilica of San Clemente.

Arrival in Rome

If you're reading this then our technology is working! Over the next few days we plan to provide several short posts each day giving updates from Rome. Our plane landed just before 1O:3Oam and the group is now heading for the hotel. More to follow later in the day.

Rome: a preview

Tomorrow the Cathedral's 150th anniversary pilgrimage to Rome begins. It's a week long trip to the 'eternal city', and around 30 parishioners are travelling. It promises to be quite a week!

After arrival tomorrow morning, there will be an afternoon visit to the Basilica of San Clemente then Mass in Rome's Cathedral Church (pictured here), the Basilica of St John Lateran.

Not far from the hotel is the famous Colosseum; tomorrow's programme ends with an optional evening stroll to this impressive landmark.

Tuesday morning sees a visit to the Vatican, for a guided tour of St Peter's Basilica. Afterwards pilgrims will be able to visit the crypt, containing the tombs of many popes, including Pope John Paul II; there will also be an opportunity to climb the dome for a spectacular view over the city. Mass on Tuesday will be celebrated at the Venerable English College, where Canon Stephen trained for the priesthood. The chapel at the college has recently been restored (more information here) and there is also a new exhibition about the English pilgrimage to Rome (find out more on a special website, here). The evening offers chance for a visit to the Trevi Fountain.

One of the highlights of any trip to Rome is a chance to see the Holy Father, and the parish pilgrims will be attending the weekly Papal Audience in St Peter's Square on Wednesday morning. Pope Benedict will deliver an address and greet the various pilgrims who are present. You can watch the audience live on the Catholic TV channel EWTN (available in the UK on Sky Digital, channel 589, or watch online at www.ewtn.com). It starts at 9:30am (English time). In the afternoon there will be Mass at the 5th-century Basilica of St Mary Major and a visit to the church of Santa Prassede, which contains some famous 9th-century mosaics.

On Thursday there's a day out to Subiaco, where St Benedict set up his first monastery. There will be a tour and Mass before a return to Rome and visit to the Basilica of the Holy Cross, which contains relics of the Passion.

Friday brings opportunity for an early Mass at St Peter's Basilica, near to the tomb of our patron. After this there will be an opportunity for personal sightseeing, and a number from the group will visit the extensive Vatican Museums and the famous Sistine Chapel.

On Saturday there's a morning excursion to the Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls, which contains mosaics of all 265 popes. In the afternoon there's a visit to the Catacombs, where a vigil Mass for the feast of All Saints will be celebrated.

These are just some of the highlights of the week; there will be much more to report, and no doubt we will see one or two familiar faces in the city. Everyone in the parish will be remembered in prayer during the pilgrimage, and our thoughts are especially with those who would like to come but - for whatever reason - are not able to do so. You can follow the pilgrimage on the blog: technology permitting, we hope to provide the blogging equivalent of an 'outside broadcast', with several posts each day during the week. If the technology lets us down there may be a break in posting, but - either way - there will be plenty of pictures and reports on our return. Meanwhile, don't forget that all Masses will take place in the Cathedral as normal; Vespers will also be celebrated on Sunday at the usual time. Confessions take place as usual on Saturday morning, and on demand before Mass on Saturday evening. There will be no Exposition on Thursday, but it will take place as usual on Saturday and Sunday. Cathedral House will be occupied throughout the visit, but there may not always be someone to answer the phone! If you need a priest in an emergency, try St Bernadette's (tel: 63000) or St Joseph's (tel: 32493). Normal service resumes shortly!

An opportunity for devotion...

Among the many items the Cathedral borrowed for the visit of St Thérèse were a number of votive candle stands. When they were removed from the Cathedral ready to be returned to their owners, they were briefly lined up along the main corridor in Cathedral House... right beneath the portraits of our former bishops. Lighting a candle before a statue or image of a saint is, of course, an act of devotion; there are (sadly!) no reports of any candles having been lit beneath the bishops' pictures. The stands were quickly moved on and are now back where they belong!

Remember Canon Billington?

Historians will no doubt look back on 2009 as one of the most significant years in the history of our Cathedral. If you're interested in the events of the past, don't forget that Billington's Blog continues to post all kinds of historical information and pictures. Over the last week or two we have seen everything from Cardinal Allen to the development of the Cathedral newsletter, from the Cathedral's pulpit to the 1945 football team. A great variety of posts are already online, and there's much more to come before the year is out. You can find Billington's Blog here.

Answering God's Call

Earlier this week a new publication was launched by the Bishops' Conference. Designed for those who are interested in the priesthood, the book provides a description of a priest's life and vocation, alongside practical information about how to apply for the priesthood. It includes a foreword by Archbishop Vincent Nichols of Westminster and Cardinal Keith O'Brien, Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh. The initial print run is 10,000 copies, and the publication will be available from every Catholic high school, university chaplaincy and diocese in the UK.

Archbishop Nichols (centre) was at the launch of the book. The text - based on an earlier work by Bishop Michael Evans of East Anglia, has been revised by Fr Paul Embery, formerly national co-ordinator of the Vocations Service. Fr Paul (seen far right on the picture here) is now Chancellor of the Lancaster Diocese and Parish Priest of Holy Trinity and St George, Kendal. You can find out more about the new publication, which is called "The Catholic Priest - answering God's call", on the Bishops' Conference website, here.

Little Way Week

This picture of St Thérèse, from the materials the Cathedral produced for schools ahead of the visit of her relics, shows her performing a small act of service while in Carmel. Such acts are at the very heart of Thérèse's spirituality: she teaches not great gestures, but small, everyday acts of love - small kindnesses shown to others motivated by a love of Jesus Christ. This is the 'Little Way' of which Thérèse spoke.

With this in mind, the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales proposes to us 'Little Way Week'. It began last Sunday (don't worry - you can join in late!) and is the first major initiative aimed at following up the visit. The basic idea is very simple: each day this week, perform one small act of kindness beyond what you would normally do; if anyone asks why you have done it, be prepared to explain something of the 'Little Way' to them. You can find out more about Little Way Week and see suggestions of how to take part on the Bishops' Conference website: click here to take a look.

A night at the Grand Theatre

Last night the parish took over Lancaster's prestigious Grand Theatre for the evening, with the last of three dramas about our patron, St Peter, being held there. The event followed two earlier productions at the Cathedral (posts here, here and here) which explored St Peter's life and his contribution to the early Church.

Parishioners gathered alongside others who had seen the event in the Grand Theatre's own publicity or on their website.

The production centred on Peter's role as guardian of the gates of heaven. He waits next to the gates, and people whose earthly life had ended came to meet him and try to enter heaven. In the course of events we found out about their lives on earth - the good and the bad - and followed their progress. Would they get through?

While the stage represented the gateway to heaven, the upper floor of the theatre represented heaven itself. A quartet of voices (there really are four - two are out of view in this picture!) represented the heavenly host, providing music in wonderful four-part harmony. Those who were allowed to pass the pearly gates also made their way upstairs.

It was great to see many members of the parish involved in the production. This drama - and the two shows earlier in the year - were masterminded by Emma Rucastle, a local drama teacher. Emma has brought together a great group of volunteers to appear in the performances, and some people have been in all three shows.

Dressed in their school uniforms - though a bit of a blur here! - are a number of children from the Cathedral Primary School, who also took part in the drama. There were also some members of the Cathedral's Cafe Club for young people.

Here St Peter, on the stage, seeks advice from the Lord, who appears upstairs in the box. He's judging two difficult cases: an insincere politician and a wealthy celebrity, and is not too keen on either! One of the key messages of the production was that contrition is key: whatever our failings in life, if we are genuinely sorry we can always ask the Lord for forgiveness.

Here some members of the cast prepare to take a bow at the end of the production. Despite some serious messages the show included a lot of humour and was greatly enjoyed by those present. We are very greatful to Ellie and to all at the Grand Theatre for their hospitality last night. The Grand Theatre (website here) is among those who are supporting events in the Cathedral's 150th anniversary year. You can find a full list of our 150th anniversary sponsors here.

Five new saints

Last Sunday Pope Benedict canonised five new saints at St Peter's Basilica in Rome. While Pope John Paul II canonised a great many saints during his pontificate, the rate of canonisations has slowed under Pope Benedict. Our man in Rome sent us some pictures earlier this week.

Here the Pope is speaking after the Canonisation Mass, delivering his usual Sunday Angelus address and blessing.

Although Mass was celebrated inside the Basilica, a huge crowd also gathered outside, such was the number of people who wished to attend. Among those who were canonised were the priest known as 'Fr Damien', famous for his ministry to lepers on the Hawaiian island of Molokai in the 19th century. During his work he caught the disease, and died on the island in 1889.

Also canonised was Jeanne Jugan (Sister Marie de la Croix), who founded the Little Sisters of the Poor. The order has a house in our Diocese in Preston, and members of the community travelled to Rome to be present at the canonisation. The order cares for the elderly and is currently active in over 30 countries worldwide.

At the solemn canonisation of the saints, the Holy Father declared: "By the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Blessed Apostles Peter and Paul and by Our own authority, after mature deliberation and having called once again for Divine help and having listened to the advice of many of our brothers in the Episcopate, we declare and define to be Saints the Blesseds Sigmund Felix Felinski, Francisco Coll y Guitart, Joseph Damian De Veuster, Rafael Arnaiz Baron and Marie of the Cross Jugan and we write them in the Catalogue of the Saints." A week tomorrow our parish pilgrimage to Rome begins, and - technology permitting - we will provide extensive coverage during the pilgrimage here on the Cathedral blog.

St Thérèse: the tour is complete

After a month travelling England and Wales, the relics of St Thérèse leave Westminster Cathedral. This was the scene on Thursday afternoon as the tour came to an end.

At the departure Mass was celebrated in the Cathedral. Something close to 100,000 had visited the reliquary in Westminster; among them - according to reports - was former Prime Minister Tony Blair. The tour has been extraordinary, and has united people from all walks of life: politicians and prisoners, the old and young, healthy and sick, people of different faiths.

Among the last to venerate the relics was Most Rev. Vincent Nichols, the Archbishop of Westminster. Here he is seen with the reliquary just before its departure.

A shower of rose petals fell inside the Cathedral as the relics were carried out. Official figures estimate that 285,000 people had seen the relics around the country.

There were petals outside, too, as the reliquary made its way into the Cathedral Piazza just off Victoria Street. Large screens in the Piazza had been showing live images from inside the Cathedral during the visit - a facility no doubt greatly appreciated by the many who had to queue outside.

Here the Archbishop follows the reliquary outside; Westminster's auxiliary bishops (among them Bishop Bernard Longley, who will soon take over as Archbishop of Birmingham) line the route, with Papal Knights visible on the other side.

With that, the hearse was loaded for one last time as a great crowd in the Piazza looked on. A few weeks ago it would have been hard to predict the extraordinary events of the last month. The many pictures we have seen have told one, very public, story; alongside this there are countless thousands of individual stories which will be being told for many years to come.

Yesterday the relics arrived back in Lisieux; here they are seen in the crypt of the town's Basilica. Adrian Forsey, the funeral director who had overseen their transportation during the UK tour, is seen wearing the red tie.

Finally, in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel at the side of the Basilica, the relics rest before the altar. Mass was celebrated by Monsignor Keith Barltrop, who had the unenviable task of overseeing the entire visit. His work, and the work of his team, has certainly paid off.

Remembering the visit

The plinth which supports the statue of St Thérèse in the cloister garden is inscribed with the dates of the visit. This lasting memorial is a physical reminder, but the visit will also live on for many years in the memories of those who were able to come.

Many people also left messages in a book at the back of the Cathedral, recording their thoughts and their prayers. The story of the visit continues to unfold even now, as people tell of what happened to them and the lasting effects of this time of grace.

Images of St Thérèse in Lancaster

Today, some snapshots of the visit. Surrounded by candles and decorated with flowers, the reliquary lies before the altar.

Pilgrims reach to touch the reliquary, while others have placed flowers on top.

Bishop Campbell, presiding over what is sure to be one of the most significant events of his episcopate in Lancaster.

Bishop O'Donoghue, who returned to the Diocese for the visit of the relics.

Coaches parked up below the Cathedral on the afternoon of Tuesday 29th September.

School pupils and candles surround a statue of St Thérèse in the baptistery.

St Thérèse in Westminster

Last night the relics of St Thérèse arrived at Westminster Cathedral, their final stop. Crowds gathered inside the Cathedral and outside on the Piazza to watch the arrival.

Bishop John Arnold incensed the relics at the main west doors of the Cathedral; the Cathedral Chapter were also present to receive the relics.

Here the relics are being put into place. Second from the left on this photo is Mark Prickett, a seminarian of the Lancaster Diocese who is studying at Allen Hall in Chelsea. It seems as though the Allen Hall students played a part in procedings here and at Notting Hill Carmel, which the relics had visited earlier in the day.

The Cathedral has been divided into two halves for the visit: one part contains the sanctuary and will be used for all the liturgies; the other contains the reliquary. This allows veneration to continue throughout the time that the relics are present. You can see more pictures of the relics in Westminster at www.catholicrelics.co.uk.

St Thérèse: the departure from Lancaster

As the tour of England and Wales nears its end, we continue our look back at the Lancaster visit with some scenes from the departure of the relics on the morning of Wednesday 30th September. Several ,members of the Cathedral Chapter were present and about 300 people, including many schoolchildren, were present for the final liturgy.

Just before the departure liturgy got underway, funeral director Adrian Forsey is seen here briefing the Cenacolo men who were to carry the relics. Fr Chris Loughran, their chaplain, looks on. Adrian has accompanied the relics around the UK, driving the hearse and overseeing all the movements of the relics.

Bishop Campbell, who had presided over many of the major liturgies, is seen here giving a final blessing before the relics depart.

Then, 43 hours after their arrival and having been seen by 6500 visitors, the relics were carried out of the Cathedral's west doors.

At 11:10am the reliquary was placed in the hearse ready for the journey to Newcastle. Fr Stewart Keeley, the diocesan Master of Ceremonies, is seen to the left, with two of the Cathedral's altar servers.

As the relics were driven out of the gates, people applauded in gratitude for a wonderful couple of days. Sometime after this picture was taken a rose was thrown onto the car, and the relics were driven away with this single flower remaining on the roof of the hearse. We still have some wonderful images to share, and these will be posted over these next few days, along with ongoing coverage of the relics' visit to Westminster Cathedral.

St Thérèse visit: the all-night youth vigil

The Cathedral did not close at all while the relics were with us, and a large number of young people from around the Diocese took part in the all-night vigil for youth on the night of Tuesday 29th September. Much of the time was spent in the Cathedral, with workshops and talks taking place throughout the night in the Diocesan Education Centre (pictured above).

Prayer was at the heart of the vigil, the programme for which was organised by the Diocesan Youth Service. Here some of the young people are preparing to pray the Rosary.

Sessions during the night were led by a variety of groups, including members of a party from Cardinal Allen High School in Fleetwood, CAFOD and the Cenacolo Community. The decision to hold most of the sessions in other spaces meant that the Cathedral was kept free for prayer throughout the night. At midnight there was a service of reconciliation, during which up to six priests were available for confession. They were kept busy for two hours!

The vigil ended with Mass at 6am. Around 40 young people had stayed all night, and many more were present for part of the vigil. Over 100 people were at the Mass.

Some who had been on the vigil did the readings; young people also served at the Mass.

No doubt all of the people who were present will remember the vigil for different reasons; for most, however, one thing will remain: the silent draw of the relics, a shrine to St Thérèse and a place of prayer which had drawn so many young people together in the first place. Tomorrow our coverage of the visit to Lancaster continues, and we will also post some pictures of the relics in Westminster Cathedral, their final stop. Many thanks to Tomas Walsh, administrator of the parish blog at St Wulstan's and St Edmund's, Fleetwood (find the blog here), for sending us these pictures of the youth vigil.

St Thérèse visit: the major liturgies

As the relics of St Thérèse approach the end of their tour of England and Wales, the Cathedral blog returns to their visit to Lancaster at the end of last month. Since the visit many people have been in touch to say how much the event meant to them, and it is clear that a great number of pilgrims and visitors were (often unexpectedly) moved by the occasion. Today we take a look back at the major liturgies which took place during the visit.

Bishop Campbell received the relics on Monday and presided over Wednesday's departure liturgy. He also celebrated the two evening Masses and the final Mass on Wednesday morning.

The Bishop also preached at the three Masses he celebrated, speaking about the life of St Thérèse and the lessons she can teach us. At the final Mass he said, "May the Lord be praised and blessed for his goodness to us here in Lancaster! The very large number of pilgrims who have come to Lancaster and Preston to venerate and reverence the Little Flower’s relics speaks eloquently of the abiding appeal of the saint of Lisieux. In her own words, she is indeed spending her heaven doing good on earth. We have been witnesses to the truth of that in this Cathedral." You can read the Bishop's three homilies on the diocesan website: Monday evening here, Tuesday evening here and Wednesday morning here.

Music was, of course, an important part of all the liturgies. The ladies' choir sang at the Monday evening Mass, the young choristers at the Tuesday lunchtime and Wednesday morning Masses, and a new group, the Germani Singers, at the Tuesday evening Mass. The quality of the music at all these Masses added a great deal to the dignity of the celebration.

Our servers, too, had a busy few days, assisting at the Masses and the Liturgy of the Hours. It was a rare opportunity for the entire Liturgy of the Hours to be sung publicly, and all of the offices were well attended. It seemed particularly fitting that this should be done during the visit, as Thérèse would have sung all these offices (and more) during her life in Carmel.

Over half of the people who came to the Cathedral during the relics' visit attended one or more of the liturgical celebrations. On two occasions the Cathedral was so full for Mass that some people had to stand outside. There was a sense of the whole Diocese being united in prayer: the Bishop with the clergy, religious and all the people of the local Church.

The Cathedral is no stranger to papal knights, and they were represented at all the Masses. Above we see a Knight of the Holy Sepulchre, and below some Knights of St Gregory. Tomorrow's post looks at the all-night Youth Vigil which took place during the visit.

The Reverend Nolan Lowry

On Thursday Nolan Lowry, the Texan seminarian who has spent some time here at the Cathedral over the last few years, was ordained deacon at St Peter's Basilica in Rome. Nolan (on the right! - seen here with Lancaster priest Fr Peter Groody) came to the Cathedral on placement in the summer of 2007 and has visited a couple of times since. He is now close to completing his studies at the Pontifical North American College in Rome.

Posing for celebratory photos with family and friends, Nolan is seen here vested as a deacon. He was one of a group of thirty who were ordained at the Altar of the Chair in St Peter's Basilica. The group were ordained by Most Rev. Robert J. Carlson, Archbishop of St Louis.

Here Nolan is seen after assisting at Mass for the first time. The Mass took place in the church of San Carlo. Those travelling to Rome on our parish pilgrimage later this month (full coverage on the blog) will no doubt catch up with Nolan during the trip. Thanks to our man in Rome for sending in these pictures.

150th Anniversary Lunch

Each year after the Mass of the Dedication feast there is a parish lunch. Usually it's in the Cathedral Social Centre and is prepared by parishioners. This year it was decided to give our dedicated catering team some well-earned time off (especially after the first half of the week, when they had been tirelessly feeding St Thérèse pilgrims!), so lunch took place in the White Cross pub over the road. The staff there put on a hearty buffet, and the extra space allowed for more people to be present. For a couple of hours we completely took over the place!

Here's a sight that the White Cross regulars don't see every day - a Bishop in full purple! Bishop Campbell, Bishop O'Donoghue and Bishop McMahon all came over for the lunch, which seemed to be a great success. Thanks to Andy and everyone at the White Cross. The afternoon tea after Vespers was arranged through parishioners, and we would like to thank Harriet for her hard work to produce such a wonderful spread, as well as the young parishioners who helped her to serve the food. With this the blog's coverage of the 150th anniversary day draws to a close, but there will be more on the exhibtion (at Lancaster City Museum) soon, along with coverage of our night at the Grand Theatre (Sunday 18th, 8pm; all welcome - tickets just £5). More details in due course. Soon we will return to the St Thérèse visit, to share some more photographs of her relics in Lancaster, as the national tour enters its final weekend. PS - if it's your birthday today, happy birthday!

150th Anniversary Vespers

On Sunday afternoon, after the Rosary, Bishop Campbell led the celebration of Vespers. Here he is seen with his two assisting deacons: Rev. John Moriarty (left) and Rev. Chris Barwise (right).

Along with the visiting Bishops, a number of priests sat in choir. Among them were members of the Cathedral Chapter and some honorary canons, all seen here wearing their mozzette. Nearest to the camera is Canon Tom Dakin, who also appears on some of the photographs taken at the Cathedral's centenary in 1959. Canon Dakin and his brother, Fr Gerard Dakin, both grew up in the Cathedral parish. Billington's Blog carries some centenary photos on a post here; both the Dakins appear on the middle image. Can you spot them? Of course, many of the parishioners involved in last Sunday's celebrations were also present at the 1959 events.

Bishop McMahon gave a sermon during Vespers. He spoke about what it means to be "firmly founded on rock", and told of a cathedral he had visited which had been destroyed in a hurricane; a new cathedral is now being built on the site.

At the end of Vespers there was Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, followed by the singing of the Te Deum in thanksgiving for the 150 years gone by. During the Te Deum the Bishop incensed all of the consecrated altars in the side chapels of the Cathedral. It was encouraging to see many people travel from outside the parish to be at Vespers on the anniversary day. Don't forget that Vespers is sung in the Cathedral every Sunday at 4:40pm, and everyone - no matter where they live - is most welcome.

After Vespers the Bishop had the chance to greet some of the people present, and afternoon tea was then provided in the Cathedral Social Centre. Tomorrow we take a look back at the social side of last Sunday's celebrations.

150th Anniversary Day - the Rosary

Each day this week the 12:15pm Mass is being celebrated in a different side chapel within the Cathedral. As today is the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Lady Chapel will be used for today's Mass. The blog today looks back at the recitation of the Rosary last Sunday, when a great many people were present for our 150th anniversary celebrations. The Rosary is said in the Cathedral every Sunday at 4pm, though not usually with such a large crowd!

It was wonderful to see a number of bishops present in choir dress. All of the Bishops who were sitting in choir for Vespers came to the Rosary beforehand. Bishop Campbell was joined by Bishop O'Donoghue, Bishop McMahon (Nottingham), Bishop Brain (Salford) and Bishop Griffiths (Emeritus Bishop of Hexham and Newcastle). Some of the Cathedral Chapter were also present.

Rosary every Sunday in the Cathedral takes place with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament; Vespers and Benediction follows. Tomorrow's post will feature images of Vespers, at which many people from outside our parish were present.

150th Anniversary Mass - part 2

A longer than usual procession entered at the start of the 10:30am Mass on our anniversary day. Amongst the additions were a number of priests; yesterday's post mentioned Fr Anthony Keefe (at the front of the procession, nearest the camera), who is Parish Priest at Claughton; also worthy of a mention is Monsignor Canon Peter Verity (seen here behind Fr Keefe). Mgr Verity is part of a long line of Verity Catholics in Lancaster, and his ancestors were among those who contributed towards the building of the church. He grew up in St Joseph's parish over the river, and currently works as a Spiritual Director at Ushaw.

In total, five bishops and seven priests were present. Here Bishop Campbell, who presided at Mass, prepares the thurible for the Gospel.

Deacon Rev. Bill Wright (of St Mary's, Fleetwood) read the Gospel, which told the story of the tax collector Zacchaeus. "Today salvation has come to this house", the Lord told him - they seem very appropriate words for this occasion too.

Rt Rev. Malcolm McMahon OP, Bishop of Nottingham, preached. He spoke about the importance of knowing our own identity, and how as Catholic Christians we trace our roots right back to Old Testament times. As children of God we have royal ancestry, he told us, and being aware of this can help us to live our vocation as followers of Christ.

Here Bishop Campbell and the two deacons stand by the altar as the Eucharistic Prayer begins. It may seem strange that there are no candles; in fact, there are seven! They are off the picture, above the screen which can be seen beind the cathedra. Seven candles are lit when the Bishop celebrates Mass; when this happens, the six which usually stand on the altar are removed.

Here the servers come forward to receive Holy Communion - there was a great crowd of them for this special celebration. To the left of the picture, in the second and third benches, you can also see some papal knights who attended the Mass.

At the end of Mass, Bishop Campbell thanked all the visitors, especially Bishop McMahon. He then gave the Bishop's blessing.

Then, with the diocesan crozier in hand, he left the sanctuary. Bishop Campbell is the sixth man to occupy the cathedra of Lancaster. This church has now been a cathedral for 85 of its 150 years' existence. Tomorrow's post features some of the afternoon events, and there are more pictures to follow later in the week.

150th Anniversary Mass - part 1

Yesterday morning the Cathedral was packed for the 150th anniversary Mass. Each year the feast of the Dedication is kept on the Sunday closest to 4th October, the day of consecration; happily this year the feast fell on the day itself.

Some people had more than one job! Jack, one of our altar servers - seen here dressed in one set of the new cassocks and cottas bought for the anniversary - helped to welcome people to the Cathedral. A number of other children from the Cathedral School also helped, and many more were present at the Mass.

Linus, one of our young choristers, also lent a hand. Here he is seen clutching copies of the special 150th anniversary newsletter. The choristers were all present and sang at the Mass, working alongside our ladies' choir, who led the singing throughout.

Most of the people who were present were parishioners; some regularly attend one of the other Masses but had made a special effort to be present at the 10:30am celebration on this feast.

The Mayor of Lancaster, Councillor Roger Sherlock, was present at the Mass. Among other invited guests were several bishops: Bishop Tom Williams and Bishop Vincent Malone (both of Liverpool), Bishop Brian Noble of Shrewsbury, who grew up in the Cathedral parish, and Bishop Malcolm McMahon of Nottingham, who preached; in this he followed in the footsteps of his predecessor, Bishop Richard Roskell (2nd Bishop of Nottingham), who gave the sermon when the church was opened in 1859. It was also a great pleasure to see Bishop O'Donoghue back with us; he has been here all week, for the visit of the relics of St Thérèse, and stayed on for the dedication feast. Among the concelebrating priests was Fr Anthony Keefe, who grew up in Lancaster and who for a time worked at the Cathedral parish.

Other figures from the Cathedral's past also returned. Joan Johnson, who was the last student to be taught to the play the organ in the Cathedral under Dr J. H. Reginald Dixon, came and played a couple of pieces before Mass. Joan has become a great friend of the Cathedral in recent months, and played a big role in the Dr Dixon music festival in May. Here she is seen at the new console, with our Director of Music, Damian Howard, looking on.

Damian had also recruited some local brass players, who opened the Mass with a fanfare by the Belgian composer Flor Peeters. Their musical contribution gave the celebrations an extra lift.

The future of the Church was also very much in evidence; we have already noted that many children were present. Also helping out was Rev. John Moriarty, a deacon currently studying at Ushaw College. John will be ordained priest next summer. Here he is seen, with Bishop Campbell in the cathedra behind. More on the Mass in tomorrow's post, with pictures of the Rosary and Vespers to follow later in the week. Thanks to George Coupe, who photographed the events of the day for the Cathedral.

Celebrating 150 Years

We have lots of images of yesterday's celebrations to share with you, and full coverage of the 150th anniversary day will follow shortly. Here's a first image to get the ball rolling: the clergy are gathered on the steps at the end of Vespers yesterday afternoon Bishop Campbell wears the cope and mitre; he is surrounded by some members of the Cathedral Chapter and by visiting bishops. A line of priests in choir dress are at the front of the image. Lots more to come: pictures of Mass, the parish lunch, and Vespers. Call back very soon!

Our 150th Anniversary

On the north side of the sanctuary there is a plaque dedicated to the memory of Dean Richard Mechiades Brown, the priest who oversaw the building of this fine church. It shows the founder holding the church in his hand. 150 years ago today this church of St Peter, Prince of the Apostles, was consecrated by Dr Alexander Goss, the Bishop of Liverpool. The ceremony was not open to the general public, as it required that nearly all of the floor space was kept clear. The church was opened on 6th October 1859, and in 1924 it was raised to Cathedral status, becoming the seat of the Bishop of Lancaster.

Throughout the year we have been marking the anniversary with great events, and many of you have been following them on this blog. Today the main liturgical celebration takes place: a number of bishops from across northern England will join Bishop Campbell for the celebration of Mass this morning at 10:30am; many will also be present for Vespers this afternoon at 4:40pm (all welcome). Rt Rev. Malcolm McMahon OP, Bishop of Nottingham, will preach at both, as it was the Bishop of Nottingham who preached when the church was opened in 1859. At the 50th anniversary and the centenary of the church, many improvements were made to the fabric of the building and to items used in the liturgy. Financial restrictions have limited the possibility of any great improvements for this year, but a number of enhancements have been made: for example, the organ restoration work has more or less reached its conclusion, the St Thérèse cloister garden has been created. Among the smaller improvements, new cassocks (in episcopal purple) and cottas for altar servers have been purchased; some money was raised for this purpose by parishioners, who were conscious of the poor state of the existing set. The new robes are being worn at Mass for the first time this weekend.

The events of the day are being captured on camera and the blog will provide extensive coverage of the anniversary day, before returning to the final St Thérèse posts. After today the parish will celebrate an octave of the dedication, using different side altars for the weekday Masses and celebrating sung Vespers each day (Mon-Sat, Exposition 5pm and Vespers 5:30pm). All are welcome.

St Thérèse in Lancaster - the DVD

Tomorrow the Cathedral is 150 years old, and the blog will obviously then turn its attention to this anniversary. More on the St Thérèse visit, including some more excellent pictures and items you have sent in, will follow before too long. Just before we leave St Thérèse for the time being, we draw your attention to the fact that coverage of the visit to Lancaster will be available on a DVD. The disk will last about an hour and will feature many aspects of the visit. We hope to send out the first copies at around the end of this month; the cost will be £10 plus p&p. If you'd like to reserve a copy (or copies) please contact us to register your interest.

Pilgrims' Progress

Many of the pilgrims who came to Lancaster to visit the relics of St Thérèse arrived by coach. The City Council allowed us to use the Nelson Street car park, opposite the Polish Church, as a centre for coach arrivals/departures. People then made their way on foot to the Cathedral, a short distance away. A minibus (on loan from Nazareth House) was on standby to ferry pilgrims who were unable to make the uphill journey; in total it made 40 or 50 trips during the visit.

The first priority of most people was to visit the relics, and at times when there were a lot of people arriving a queue soon formed, on occasions reaching the outside of the Cathedral.

During Mass, when veneration of the relics was stopped, significant queues began to build up. For most of the time, however, people kept moving and relatively few visitors had to wait for more than about 15 minutes.

Just inside the door of the Cathedral there were prayer cards and booklets being given away; many people also bought roses to leave at the reliquary.

Extra signs were put in place to complement the work of the stewards. A large number of stewarding volunteers helped out, to ensure that the whole event was safe and orderly through day and night. It would not have been possible without them.

Many pilgrims spent some time quietly in the Cathedral, praying after having venerated the relics. A large number of people also attended one of the Masses or other services which took place.

Around the site there were plenty of other things to do. Some people watched the St Thérèse video or read information about the Carmelite saints which had been put up in the corridors; some also visited our new St Thérèse cloister garden, specially designed for the visit.

No pilgrimage would be complete without some refreshments, and large numbers of people called in at the Cathedral Social Centre for a cup of tea, cakes etc. A small army of volunteers worked here, too, and a great many visitors took advantage of the hospitality. Don't forget to send us your pictures and stories about your visit to Lancaster; click here to contact us. Thanks to Fr Michael Docherty, who sent some of the images in today's post. Our own St Thérèse blog has begun posting again, and on it you can find out where the relics have been since they left Lancaster: click here to take a look.

More BBC footage

Yesterday we mentioned that the BBC had also been filming in Lancaster for Look North; the report that was produced is currently available on the Teesside section of the BBC website, to mark the relics' arrival in Middlesbrough. It's already appeared and disappeared once, so it may not be left there permanently. At the time of posting however, you can find it here.

Many Flowers for the Little Flower

Flowers - and particularly roses - played a significant part in the visit of St Thérèse to Lancaster. It's hardly surprising, given that Thérèse herself often spoke of flowers and even referred to herself as 'The Little Flower'. It is name which has caught on.

When the relics arrived on Monday children from the Cathedral Primary School were ready with rose petals which they had brought to school that morning.

As the reliquary was carried in, the children threw the petals over it; Thérèse surely approved!

The result was a confetti-like effect outside the church. Thérèse famously promised to "let fall a shower of roses from heaven" after her death; the offering of these petals is a sign of devotion, but is a small offering in comparison to the many prayers which Thérèse offers on our behalf.

Many pilgrims bought their own flowers; others bought roses as they entered the Cathedral.

Some pilgrims took their flowers home, but many chose to leave them at the reliquary as a token of their devotion to 'the Little Flower'. Over 1500 roses were left by pilgrims.

Periodically the roses were cleared from the reliquary and placed in buckets elsewhere; now they have been placed in the St Thérèse garden, where they will stay as long as they last. At times, however, the pile of roses grew so big that the reliquary could barely be seen behind it! This image was taken before the Tuesday evening Mass.

Before the visit began our own team of flower arrangers, helped by Catherine Curran of Flowerstop in Lancaster, put together some beautiful displays within the Cathedral. This display, around a statue of St Thérèse belonging to the Cathedral School, is among the most wonderful.

St Thérèse in Lancaster - as seen on TV

Two BBC camera crews were filming on Monday when the relics of St Thérèse arrived. One was for Look North in the Yorkshire region, who were preparing a report in advance of the relics' arrival at York and Leeds. The other was for the long-running children's show Newsround, which broadcast a report nationally on Tuesday. If you'd like to watch the piece, you can do so on the Newsround pages of the BBC website: click here.

The feast of St Thérèse

Today, which is the feast of St Thérèse of Lisieux, we feature some images of the school groups who visited her relics here in Lancaster.

While a visit over three weekdays was not ideal for people who are working, it did have the advantage of allowing many children to come on school visits. They came from all over the Diocese, with groups from - amongst others - Wigton, Workington, Windermere, Preston, Whitehaven, Penrith and Cleveleys. A school group from Blackpool were among those who greeted the relics, and several schools were represented at the departure liturgy. Our own Primary School and two other Lancaster schools sent groups for the visit.

It is striking that children seemed to feel immediately at home with the spirituality on display during the visit. Many simply touched the reliquary in a moment of prayer; it is a simple, wordless gesture - a very personal moment spent with a saint.

Many of the visiting schools had spent time preparing for the visit and learning about the life of St Thérèse. Children from Holy Family, Barrow, who were at the Mass and departure liturgy yesterday morning, wore their own 'Little Way' badges. Many schools who were unable to send groups have also been looking at Thérèse and her message, making use of an educational CD-Rom prepared and sent out by the Cathedral in June.

Young stood alongside old to venerate the relics; people from all parts of the Diocese and beyond were together in this act. Each had their different reasons for being present, but the result was a powerful sign of St Thérèse's - and the Church's - ability to unite.

Teachers and pupils, too, were one in the act of pausing for prayer at the shrine of St Thérèse.

Unseen by most of the public, on Tuesday an educational programme was running all day, and demand was such that a number of schools were unable to get places, as slots were quickly filled. After arriving at the Cathedral Primary School the children went to the Diocesan Education Centre for an introductory session led by Cathedral catechist Ann-Marie Houghton; this helped to set the scene and prepare them for visiting the relics, which followed. Then it was on to our 'Carmelite Cell' (pictured above).

Here children from St John's Primary School, Poulton-le-Fylde, look at an image of the Holy Face, one of Thérèse's great inspirations. This session was led by our own Sister Zela, who played the role of 'Sister Marie of the Trinity and of the Holy Face', one of Thérèse's novices. Children could then ask about life in Carmel and about St Thérèse herself. After this, the final workshop involved making a flower out of art materials; this session was designed to help children understand some of Thérèse's use of the rose as a symbol. It has great beauty, but also thorns: in this way it is like life, which includes both beauty and suffering.

A small group from St Bede's High School, Lytham, posed for a photograph at the reliquary just before its departure yesterday morning. Seven schools were represented at yesterday's departure liturgy, including a group from near Clitheroe, who were amongst the last to venerate the relics (below).

Children from the Cathedral school played a great part in the visit, both welcoming the relics and being present when they left. We will have more on the visit soon, but in the meantime you can see a couple of photos of the arrival of the relics on the Cathedral School blog, here.