November is the month of Remembrance and this year Archbishop Malcolm will celebrate two additional Masses for those who have died during the pandemic and in thanksgiving for those who cared for them.
On Sunday 7 November Archbishop Malcolm will celebrate the 11.00am Mass for all those who have died in the pandemic, and in thanks for the medical staff, care workers and family members who have accompanied and assisted them in the last moments of their lives. This date has been suggested by the Bishops’ Conference, and similar Masses will be taking place in cathedrals across England and Wales.
On Friday 12 November at 7.00pm the Archbishop will again celebrate Mass in the Metropolitan Cathedral for priests who have died since the beginning of the pandemic, he writes:
‘I am aware that many of us could not be present at their funerals due to Covid restrictions. Indeed, while united in prayer and perhaps live streaming for these occasions, the inability to be physically present, I am sure, only served to compound the sense of loss, as it has for so many others across the world during the various lockdowns. It is therefore important that we come together to remember and pray for our priests who have died during this period, including for Bishop Vincent Malone. His funeral was dignified and prayerful, but the starkness of laying him to rest with only a few of us there, and with all the other limitations on what we could do, is a contrast to what would have taken place had the world been different in May 2020, for a bishop who had a very special place at the heart of our archdiocese.
‘All those priests who have died during the pandemic, of Covid or other causes, have given a life of service to the People of God, and it is only right that we remember and give thanks for their contribution, and pray for their eternal peace.’
All are welcome to attend.
