Suresh Abboodass
St. George’s Day was celebrated on a grand scale, with the installation of a New Chapter Canon and two Honorary Canons at St. George’s Metropolitan Cathedral, Southwark, London, on 23rd April.
St. George is the patron saint of the Cathedral from whom it takes its name.
Rev. John Diver who had earlier served the Cathedral as one of the assistant Parish Priests was initiated and installed as the new Canon by the Provost Canon James Cronin, former Dean of the Cathedral, at a colourful ceremony watched by a packed congregation from all over the Archdiocese.
Taking part in the Rite of Installation, the newly installed Canon John Diver professed the Prayer of Faith before being wrapped up with the ‘mozetta’, a purple and white cape-like vestment which distinguishes a Canon from a priest.
Following this, Rev. David Gibbons and Rev. Liam Gallagher were also installed as the two new Honorary Canons by the Provost Canon James Cronin. They were also vested with the ‘mozetta’.
Delivering the homily, Mgr. Canon John Weatherill called on both the newly installed Canons as well as the congregation to bear witnesses to the works of Christ, in an authentic and attractive way. “How do we do this? Authentically we have to carry Christ’s words to people. That is why martyrs are called to bear fruit. We also have to be attractive. People flocked to Christ because He was attractive. Since you have the Holy Spirit you can be both,” he said. He praised St. George’s love for Christ and his authenticity.
Praising the spiritual qualities of St. George, he pointed out that we are all called to be martyrs. “Although today we celebrate St. George as a martyr, we are all called to be martyrs. We do admire St. George’s love for Christ and his authenticity. Martyrs have given their lives to Christ and the Church. We are also called to work for Christ. We are always called to be witnesses to Christ,” Mgr. Weatherill said.
“We have to find a role to share and encourage people to witness the faith. It is easy for me, but not so easy for you. But we all have to carry the message of Christ and to preach the Gospel. That is the challenge,” he said.
Later, Archbishop John Wilson, who was the main celebrant, carried the sacred relic of St. George to the side chapel so that the faithful can venerate the relic. Many of the faithful gathered to venerate the relic and pay their homage to St. George on his special day.
Picture: New Canon John Diver