The Most Reverend John Sherrington has been formally installed as the new Archbishop of Liverpool during a special Mass at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King.
Thousands of Catholics of all ages from across the archdiocese gathered at the cathedral for the celebration which included Apostolic Nuncio to Great Britain, Archbishop Miguel Maury Buendía, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, bishops and clergy from across England and Wales and civic leaders and representatives from other faiths.
The day began with the ringing of the Cathedral bells at 11am. At midday, Archbishop Sherrington arrived at the main entrance, where he was greeted by Monsignor Anthony O’Brien, Provost of the Cathedral Chapter, and other members of the Chapter.
Following tradition, the Archbishop knocked on the Cathedral doors and was welcomed inside. He venerated the Metropolitan Cross and sprinkled both himself and the gathered clergy with holy water.
Mgr O’Brien, as Provost, led the Rite of Installation. During the liturgy, Archbishop Sherrington was presented with the Book of the Gospels by Bishop Tom Neylon and received the crozier from Archbishop Emeritus Malcolm McMahon OP, symbolising the official transfer of pastoral responsibility.
Archbishop Sherrington said: “The Mass of Installation was a joyous occasion; it was wonderful to see so many people from across the diocese and beyond gather together in prayer as we continue to preach Christ to the people of our time.
“I give thanks to Archbishop Malcolm who has served the archdiocese with love and generosity, and I am honoured to succeed him.
“I look forward to serving as a shepherd to this historic and faith-filled archdiocese and to bring the hope and joy of Christ to all people.”
Mgr O’Brien said: “Today marks an important moment for the Cathedral and the wider archdiocese. We welcome Archbishop Sherrington with great joy and assure him of our prayers as he begins this new ministry.”
To read Archbishop John Sherrington’s homily from the Mass of Installation, click here.
