Once I was a clever boy learning the arts of Oxford... is a quotation from the verses written by Bishop Richard Fleming (c.1385-1431) for his tomb in Lincoln Cathedral. Fleming, the founder of Lincoln College in Oxford, is the subject of my research for a D. Phil., and, like me, a son of the West Riding. I have remarked in the past that I have a deeply meaningful on-going relationship with a dead fifteenth century bishop... it was Fleming who, in effect, enabled me to come to Oxford and to learn its arts, and for that I am immensely grateful.


Monday, 16 February 2026

The Installation Mass of the Archbishop of Westminster


Two days ago, Westminster Cathedral witnessed the Installation Mass of the new Archbishop of Westminster.

I do regret the contemporary choice of terminology - a canon of a cathedral is installed by the being physically placed into his stall in the cathedral choir, a bishop or archbishop is enthroned by being placed into his throne. That is a central part of the ceremony which is involved in such an occasion. Words have a meaning, and the meaning is patently clear.

It is, no doubt, a sign of the times that such a service is not broadcast by national television, as was that for the consecration and installation of Basil Hume in 1976. However, modern technology does mean that institutions can produce their own videos and this has been done by Westminster Cathedral. This full length coverage of the liturgy and ceremonies can be seen at THE INSTALLATION OF THE 12TH ARCHBISHOP OF WESTMINSTER : Mass 12 noon Westminster Cathedral

The Zenit website has a report about the events, and includes interesting details about the form of the service, the vestments and the principal chalice used by the Archbishop - all of which link to the pre-reformation era. Although the article does not mention it the spectacular amethyst encrusted morse worn by the Archbishop to fasten his cope is part of the nineteenth century heritage of the Archdiocese. I think it is normally on display in the Cathedral Treasury.


Let us pray for the new Archbishop in the discharge of his office and responsibilities.

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1 comment:

Zephyrinus said...

A marvellous Post, John. Many thanks.

One totally agrees about the “dumbing-down” and/or ignoring of such an important event.

As always, of course, the BBC continue to erroneously refer to the Archbishop of Westminster as “The Head of The Catholic Church in England”. He is merely the President of the Bishops Conference of England and Wales.

Perhaps it underscores the times we are living in, e.g., Religion is irrelevant or much less important; what IS important is whether “MAN U” won their soccer match and are now top of the League.

Thank you very much for giving the Link to the broadcast of this important event.

God Bless our new Archbishop of Westminster.

16 February 2026 at 11:47

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