The Catholic Police Guild is looking forward to its landmark 100th National Police Solemn Requiem Mass, which will take place at Westminster Cathedral on Tuesday 7th November 2023.
The purpose of the Mass is to pray for the repose of the souls of members of the Guild and all police officers and staff who have died in service.
The Catholic Police Guild was formed in London in 1914 as The Metropolitan and City Catholic Police Guild by officers from both The Metropolitan Police and City of London Police. Since then, it has grown to be a Guild that encompasses the Police Forces of England and Wales. The Guild is recognised by the Bishops Conference of England and Wales, with its own “link Bishop”, who is currently Bishop Alan Williams of Brentwood.
A small committee was formed at Westminster Cathedral under the auspices of the then Administrator Canon Martin Howlett and the Guild was formally founded on the then feast of Corpus Christi, 11th June 1914. Canon Howlett was considered to be the founder of the Guild.
The first Police Requiem Mass, organised by The Catholic Police Guild, was held in Westminster Cathedral in November 1923. Considered the Guild’s spiritual home, it has been held there ever since, with the exception of 2020 when, due to COVID restrictions, it was celebrated alone by National Chaplain, Fr. Barry Lomax, at his parish church and streamed live.
As this year marks the centenary Mass, the chief celebrant will be Cardinal Vincent Nichols. His co-celebrants will be Bishop Alan Williams and his predecessor as the Guilds’ link Bishop, Bishop Tom Burns, the Bishop Emeritus of Menevia.
As well as members of the Catholic Police Guild, each Police Force will be represented, to honour all who have gone before us. The Mass is a public Mass and all are welcome.
Details about the Catholic Police Guild can be found at the website: www.catholicpoliceguild.co.uk or its social media channels.
