A Wandering Oblate

The Sound of Silence

2011-12-11T23:07:00.001Z

The title comes from that great 1964 song sung by Simon & Garfunkel. However today at Masses throughout the Diocese of Aberdeen we were informed about a pastoral letter from His Excellency Bishop Hugh O.S.B. Being a Benedictine he is much given to spirituality, thought, and writing to name just a very few of his talents. This letter fully captures his stated desire for us all to develop a more profound spirituality. I am sure you will agree what follows is the work of a very wise caring shepherd. Lord, thank you!

Pastoral Letter

To be read and distributed at all Masses on the 3^rd Sunday of Advent, 2011

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

We live in a noisy world. Our towns and cities are full of noise. There is noise in the skies and on the roads. There is noise in our homes, and even in our churches. And most of all there is noise in our minds and hearts.

The Danish philosopher Kierkegaard once wrote: ‘The present state of the world and the whole of life is diseased. If I were a doctor and I were asked for my advice, I should reply: “Create silence! Bring people to silence!” The Word of God cannot be heard in the noisy world of today. And even if it were trumpeted forth with all the panoply of noise so that it could be heard in the midst of all the other noise, then it would no longer be the Word of God. Therefore, create silence!’

‘Create silence!’ There’s a challenge here. Surely speaking is a good and healthy thing? Yes indeed. Surely there are bad kinds of silence? Yes again. But still Kierkegaard is on to something.

There is a simple truth at stake. There can be no real relationship with God, there can be no real meeting with God, without silence. Silence prepares for that meeting and silence follows it. An early Christian wrote, ‘To someone who has experienced Christ himself, silence is more precious than anything else.’ For us God has the first word, and our silence opens our hearts to hear him. Only then will our own words really be words, echoes of God’s, and not just more litter on the rubbish dump of noise.

‘How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is given.’ So the carol goes. For all the noise, rush and rowdiness of contemporary Christmasses, we all know there is a link between Advent and silence, Christmas and silence. Our cribs are silent places. Who can imagine Mary as a noisy person? In the Gospels, St Joseph never says a word; he simply obeys the words brought him by angels. And when John the Baptist later comes out with words of fire, it is after years of silence in the desert. Add to this the silence of our long northern nights, and the silence that follows the snow. Isn’t all this asking us to still ourselves?

A passage from the Old Testament Book of Wisdom describes the night of Israel’s Exodus from Egypt as a night full of silence. It is used by the liturgy of the night of Jesus’ birth:

‘When a deep silence covered all things and night was in the middle of its course, your all-powerful Word, O Lord, leapt from heaven’s royal throne’ (Wis 18:14-15).

‘Holy night, silent night!’ So we sing. The outward silence of Christmas night invites us to make silence within us. Then the Word can leap into us as well, as a wise man wrote: ‘If deep silence has a hold on what is inside us, then into us too the all-powerful Word will slip quietly from the Father’s throne.’

This is the Word who proceeds from the silence of the Father. He became an infant, and ‘infant’ means literally ‘one who doesn’t speak.’ The child Jesus would have cried - for air and drink and food - but he didn’t speak. ‘Let him who has ears to hear, hear what this loving and mysterious silence of the eternal Word says to us.’ We need to listen to this quietness of Jesus, and allow it to make its home in our minds and hearts.

‘Create silence!’ How much we need this! The world needs places, oases, sanctuaries, of silence.

And here comes a difficult question: what has happened to silence in our churches? Many people ask this. When the late Canon Duncan Stone, as a young priest in the 1940s, visited a parish in the Highlands, he was struck to often find thirty or forty people kneeling there in silent prayer. Now often there is talking up to the very beginning of Mass, and it starts again immediately afterwards. But what is a church for, and why do we go there? We go to meet the Lord and the Lord comes to meet us. ‘The Lord is in his holy temple. Let all the earth keep silence before him!’ said the prophet Habakkuk. Surely the silent sacramental presence of the Lord in the tabernacle should lead us to silence? We need to focus ourselves and put aside distractions before the Mass begins. We want to prepare to hear the word of the Lord in the readings and homily. Surely we need a quiet mind to connect to the great Eucharistic Prayer? And when we receive Holy Communion, surely we want to listen to what the Lord God has to say, ‘the voice that speaks of peace’? Being together in this way can make us one – the Body of Christ - quite as effectively as words.

A wise elderly priest of the diocese said recently, ‘Two people talking stop forty people praying.’

‘Create silence!’ I don’t want to be misunderstood. We all understand about babies. Nor are we meant to come and go from church as cold isolated individuals, uninterested in one another. We want our parishes to be warm and welcoming places. We want to meet and greet and speak with one another. There are arrangements to be made, items of news to be shared, messages to be passed. A good word is above the best gift, says the Bible. But it is a question of where and when. Better in the porch than at the back of the church. Better after the Mass in a hall or a room. There is a time and place for speaking and a time and place for silence. In the church itself, so far as possible, silence should prevail. It should be the norm before and after Mass, and at other times as well. When there is a real need to say something, let it be done as quietly as can be. At the very least, such silence is a courtesy towards those who want to pray. It signals our reverence for the Blessed Sacrament. It respects the longing of the Holy Spirit to prepare us to celebrate the sacred mysteries. And then the Mass, with its words and music and movement and its own moments of silence, will become more real. It will unite us at a deeper level, and those who visit our churches will sense the Holy One amongst us.

‘Create silence!’ It is an imperative. May the Word coming forth from silence find our silence waiting for him like a crib! ‘The devil’, said St Ambrose, ‘loves noise; Christ looks for silence.’

Yours sincerely in Him,

+ Hugh, O. S. B.

Bishop of Aberdeen

7 December 2011.

Prophetic ?

2011-12-07T22:26:00.000Z

I am currently reading 'Pope John's Council' written by Michael Davies. This is his second book concerning Liturgical Revolution; part 1 being 'Cranmer's Godly Order'. I was given this copy to pass on to a certain young seminarian who is returning home on St. Stephen's day which means a lot of very late bed-time reading for me. I came across the following passage which really struck me as somewhat prophetic and, in light of the launch of the 'New Mass', very contemporary.

Chapter XVI - Unearthing the Time-bombs (p 233)

Bishop (now Cardinal) Dino Staffa pointed out the theological consequences of an "adapted liturgy" on 24 October 1962. He told 2,337 assembled Fathers:

It is said that the Sacred Liturgy must be adapted to times and circumstances which have changed. Here also we ought to look at the consequences. For customs, even the very face of society, change fast and will change even faster. What seems agreeable to the wishes of the multitude today will appear incongruous after thirty or fifty years. We must conclude then that after thirty or fifty years all, or almost all the liturgy would have to be changed again. This seems to be logical according to the premises, this seems logical to me, but hardly fitting (decorum) for the Sacred Liturgy, hardly useful for the dignity of the Church, hardly safe for the integrity and unity of the faith, hardly favouring the unity of discipline. While the world therefore tends to unity more and more every day, especially in its manner of working and living, are we of the Latin Church going to break the admirable liturgical unity and divide into nations, regions, even provinces?

I shall leave you, dear reader, to ponder upon these words of His Eminence Cardinal Staffa.

Gimme Some More, Some More, Summorum Pontificum

2011-11-26T10:55:00.001Z

These are the words in the latest song for the "freedom" of Summorum Pontificum. Composed and sung by the well known blogger Laurence England, his blogsite may be viewed HERE.

Apparently this song is going 'Viral', (seemingly a modern expression for becoming rather well known in a short space of time on the Internet), and now has been picked up by the U.K.'s largest weekly religious newspaper the Catholic Herald.

Who says adherents of the Extraordinary Form are stuffy old octogenarians!!

Well done Laurence!!

FIUV General Assembly, Rome

2011-11-12T22:33:00.002Z

Another wee journey before I hibernate for the winter.

On this occasion it was off to Rome during the first weekend of November to attend the 20th General Assembly of the Foederatio Internationalis Una Voce which is held every two years. I was one of the two delegates from Una Voce Scotland. The Assembly was held at a simple two star hotel which nevertheless served good food, had comfortable rooms, a chapel and a very fine auditorium with the added benefit of being only 15 minutes walk from St Peter's.

Arriving a day early Fred (UVS chairman) and I took the opportunity to go to confession and Mass at St Peter's on Friday then spent the remainder of the day sightseeing which included finding, after much going round in circles, the church of Santissima Trinita dei Pellegrini entrusted to the care of the FSSP by His Holiness Benedict XVI. We purchased a travel pass for the duration of our stay which is very reasonably priced at 11 Euros for three days or 16 Euros for one week permitting you to travel by all types of public transport across Rome.

One of the many stunning domes in St Peter's

Saturday dawned and it was off again to St Peter's. On this occasion Mass was to be very special indeed. The Blessed Sacrament Chapel had been reserved for us and no less a personage than His Eminence Dario Cardinal Castrillon Hoyos was to celebrate Mass in the Forma Extraordinaria. This was without doubt one of THE highlights of the weekend. His Excellency offered the Mass in a most wonderful prayerful manner with an incredible polyphonic schola providing the music which included Byrd's Ave Verum (sung here by the Tallis singers). A true gentleman of the old school - I felt, and still do, truly blessed and fortunate to have met him.

Dominus Vobiscum

A Holy Man at Prayer

Lunch was, once again, rather special. His Eminence Raymond Cardinal Burke graced our gathering by joining us for lunch. Indeed he had delayed his departure for the Netherlands so he could dine with us. Another gent to be sure.

A Blessing before meal

Group photo opportunity

After lunch it was time to convene the General Assembly. I shall not go into detail except to say I was not overly impressed with certain aspects of the afternoon's proceedings, and, not being noted for diplomacy, I fired off a salvo or two across the bows. How to make friends and influence people - NOT. Notwithstanding that it was a real pleasure to meet with other Una Voce organisations from around the world. Delegates included representatives from Russia, Japan, New Zealand, America just to name a few.

Sunday morning and off to the FSSP church in Rome for Solemn High Mass. When they were first given this church the pews were now overfull but how things change in a short time. Due to full pews some of the congregation had to remain standing at the back of the church. Two priests heard confessions before and during mass, seminarians and visiting priests filled the choir stalls and the schola sang beautifully. To add icing to the cake I was able to chat with Fr William Barker who is one of the assistant priests there. I last saw him during his priestly ordination at Wigratzbad in 2009. (For videos and photos of that event please take this link to my blog entry).

After lunch it was time for the Sunday afternoon FIUV session. We were rather fortunate in having some very good guest speakers including Monsignor Grau, president of the Pontifical Institute for Sacred Music. For those who wish to read a detailed account of the General Assembly my I suggest they go over to the St Conleth's Catholic Heritage Association who have posted extensively on the weekend.

As usual I have posted a few photos which may be viewed HERE

Tonsuring

2011-10-27T14:46:00.085+01:00

Thursday the 20th of October saw me flying off to Germany to witness the tonsuring of seminarians attending the FSSP Seminary in Witgrazbad. The ceremony was scheduled for Saturday morning but earlier that week each of the chosen seminarians was incorporated into the Society. The incorporation involved, among other things, completing a submission as to why they should be accepted into the Fraternity. This exercise, I am led to believe, requires to be completed on an annual basis until they reach the diaconate.

Saturday dawned with blue skies and a temperature of minus 3C as we set off for Das Munster Unserer Lieben Frau (The Minster of Our Lady) in Lindau on the Bodensee.

His Excellency Vitus Huonder, Bishop of Chur

awaits entrance of the aspirants

In the Fraternal Society of Saint Peter tonsuring is given to seminarians during the early part of their second year, the first being more of a discernment year, and includes clothing the seminarian in a soutanne, cincture and wearing the roman collar.

Those to be tonsured process into church

Sprinkled with holy water

Tonsurants process into the church again,

this time clothed in their soutannes

The soutanne denotes the modern day cloth of a cleric, the cincture symbolically recalls the "girding of the loins" whilst the roman collar that of the "yoke" around the neck - all reminding the wearer of his giving himself completely to God and accepting the weight of responsibility this brings.

The moment of Tonsure

Locks of hair are cut from the front, back and sides of the head taking on the shape of a cross to remind the seminarian of the Christ Crucified.

The clothing in the surplice

A Bishop's Blessing

A happy Group Photograph

As usual I have uploaded additional photogaphs which may be accessed HERE

Please pray for all those tonsured -

Laurent Dejean

Manu Ihou

Edouard Laurant

Henri Lefer

Mark Miles

Alois Nespor

Jaromir Palka

Vasily Prusakov

Gregoire Remusat

Mateusz Rutkowski

Stepan Srubar

Nicolas Telisson

Hilaire Vernier

Roland Weiss

Abbatial Blessing

2011-10-07T21:04:00.000+01:00

Monday the 3rd of October was a very auspicious day for Abbot Anselm and the community of Pluscarden Abbey. Father Abbot was to receive his Solemn Abbatial Blessing from the Bishop of the diocese. Not just any Bishop but Father Abbot's predecessor; His Excellency Bishop Hugh Gilbert O.S.B. A very rare occurrence indeed.

Abbot Anselm Atkinson O.S.B.

I was very fortunate to receive an invitation to attend and so, after picking up a fellow oblate enroute, had a very pleasant early morning drive to the Abbey. Things looked very hectic but under the direction of the new prior Fr Benedict (ex army officer and gentleman), the organisation and last minute rehearsals were soon dealt with.

Mass was without doubt the highlight of the day; a very solemn and devout liturgy with something I do not often experience at Novus Ordo Masses - contemplative prayerful silence. Bishop Hugh's Homily, a eulogy from His Eminence Cardinal O'Brien plus a response from Abbot Anselm were a joy to listen to; Br Michael was in excellent voice as cantor with Abbots, Abbesses, monks, nuns, religious and diocesan priests plus interdenominational guests also joining the procession into the Abbey Church.

Fr Abbot says a few wise words to the Bishop's amusement whilst the Cardinal looks on.

After Mass there was, in best Benedictine tradition, a bun fest where everyone ate, drank and chatted meeting old friends and new.

As usual I took some photos but as I was restricted in where I was permitted to go I was unable to capture the actual blessing - not that this detracted in any way from the day I hasten to add. Being there was more than enough for me.

A Visitation

2011-09-23T09:45:00.007+01:00

Reading the Transalpine Redemptorists at Home blog site a couple of days ago I was very heartened indeed to read the following item:

Official Communiqué

Concerning the visit to Papa Stronsay

of His Lordship Bishop Hugh, OSB

and Very Reverend Stuart Chalmers

Vicar General

20 - 21 September 2011.

We have enjoyed the visit of the Bishop of Aberdeen and the Vicar General of the diocese, and have had positive discussions which will be taken further with the Pontifical Commission "Ecclesia Dei".

Fr. Michael Mary, F.SS.R.
21 September, 2011.

===============================

Bishop Hugh has many issues to address in the diocese of Aberdeen yet, after only one month in office, that His Lordship took the opportunity to pay a visit to this holy, devout and loyal community who still do not, after over three years, have full canonical rights, can only be construed in a positive light. Is this a sign of our Bishop's dynamic style, unafraid to grasp thorny issues; reaching out to all his brethren in his now very enlarged community, just like Papa Benedict? Yes, I think so.

The Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer have, I believe, five members of their community awaiting ordination to the priesthood. Unfortunately until their status has been fully regularised these holy men may only wait and pray - as they are doing in all humility and obediently.

The world in which we live needs now more than ever before, holy priests to combat and become victorious over the machinations of the evil one whose minions are abroad in open daylight in this modern age.

Thank you Bishop Hugh for placing the welfare of this community so highly on your very onerous schedule and duties.

Thank you Fr Michael Mary for bringing your community back to Rome.

Thank you Holy Father for your vision, wisdom and teaching.

Most of all Thank you Lord for being our Way, our Truth and our Light.

May Our Lady of Aberdeen watch over us all.

Edinburgh Fringe Festival

2011-09-03T17:27:00.001+01:00

August was another hectic period - who said retirement is more easy going and relaxing.

My wife (aka "she who must be obeyed") and I stayed in our flat in Edinburgh 'doing' the Fringe last week. Of the 1290 performances available during the festival we managed ten. Some wonderful productions with Shakespeare's 'Midsummer Night's Dream' and 'Ophelia' from Hamlet plus Alexander McCall Smith's 'The World According to Bertie' being very good indeed. The clear winner for me was Ian Hardy's powerful, nay faultless, performance in 'The Trials of Galileo' written by Nic Young.

On the liturgical front there was of course Bishop Gilbert's ordination in Aberdeen as one highlight (see previous post). Also my participation in The St. Margaret Schola singing Vespers each Saturday evening and Compline by candlelight on Sunday night at St. Mary's Cathedral Edinburgh throughout August. Once again the format during Vespers was two choirs singing, one polyphonic and the other (us) Gregorian chant with congregational numbers of +/- 100. Each Compline comprised of chanting a different usage: Benedictine, Roman, Cistercian and Dominican. Attendance was good at around 50 for Compline (at 9pm on wet and windy Sunday nights we adjudged those very good numbers). The highlight of our contribution to the fringe this year was Couperin's Messe pour les Paroisses on Friday 26th.

Next month it is back to salmon fishing to "chill out" for a week or two.

Aberdeen's New Bishop

2011-08-17T12:13:00.001+01:00

On the Feast of the Assumption I was privileged to attend the episcopal ordination of the Bishop of Aberdeen, H.E. Bishop Hugh Gilbert O.S.B. at St Mary's Cathedral in Aberdeen.

Motto: Omnia in Ipso constant
All things hold together in Him (Christ)

His Eminence Keith Patrick Cardinal O'Brien was the principal Consecrator with Archbishop Conti of Glasgow (previously a Bishop of Aberdeen) and Bishop Emeritus Moran of Aberdeen as co-consecrators.

It was wonderful to see all the community of Pluscarden attend this historic occasion and quite rightly participating in the Mass in singing the Introit, Gospel Acclamation and leading the singing of the Litany of the Saints.

Sitting behind me was one of Scotland's premier composers, James Macmillan, who had composed a very pleasing Motet "Ecce Sacerdos Magnus" especially for the Bishop's ordination.

On a historical note this is the second occasion a superior of Pluscarden Abbey has become the Bishop of Aberdeen; albeit the first time was almost 500 years ago in 1529 when Pope Clement VII appointed the then Prior Learmond coadjutor Bishop with right of succession.

In his address during the reception after Mass the Bishop hinted that changes would be forthcoming but had only one to announce that day. Fr. Stuart Chalmers (my ex parish priest) was to become the diocese's Vicar General replacing Canon Mann.

I regret I have no photographs of the event as when attending a priestly ordination the previous month in the Cathedral, it was announced that no photography, other than by the official photographer, was permitted. I was a little annoyed to be informed that I could take photographs this time around - of course I had left my camera at home.

As a footnote the Bishop will still be known by his religious name Hugh, rather than his birth name of Edward, as he remains a Benedictine monk and, as he told me a few week's earlier, will retire to Pluscarden.

Please pray for His Excellency Bishop Hugh Gilbert O.S.B.

New Abbot Elected

2011-08-15T01:16:00.000+01:00

Following ratification from Abbot Bruno Marin, Abbot President of the Subiaco Congregation, Dom Anselm Atkinson OSB was elected as the new Abbot of Pluscarden Abbey on Tuesday 9th August 2011.

Dom Anselm was duly installed as Abbot by the Right Reverend Francis Baird, Abbot of Prinknash Abbey, acting on Abbot Bruno's behalf.

Abbot Anselm made his first monastic vows at Pluscarden in 1976 at the age of nineteen. He was ordained priest in 1982 by the Right Reverend Mario Conti, who was then Bishop of Aberdeen. He was sent to study at the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome, where he gained a Licenciate in Sacred Scripture. Since the late 1980s he has been resident at Pluscarden's daughter house in Petersham, Massachusetts, where he was Superior until his election as Abbot of Pluscarden. In 2003 he was elected Abbot Visitor, which entails monitoring the progress of all the monasteries in our province.

Dom Anselm Atkinson O.S.B.
Abbot of Pluscarden Abbey

Bishop Gilbert O.S.B., newly ordained Bishop of Aberdeen and former Abbot of Pluscarden, will carry out the Blessing of the new Abbot at a later date. Speaking with Bishop Gilbert recently he intimated that he wished this to be one of his first official engagements as Bishop.

Many thanks to Pluscarden for the use of the photograph and short bibliography of Abbot Anselm.

Abbatial Election

2011-08-06T11:53:00.000+01:00

I would ask for your prayers for the community of Pluscarden Abbey this next week in especial. Solemnly professed monks from the dependant house of Petersham Monastery, and Fathers' Bede and Giles from the joint foundation of Kristo Buase, have now returned to their mother house to join with their brethren for this auspicious occasion.

The election has been brought about following the Holy Father's wish that Abbot Hugh Gilbert be the next Bishop of the Diocese of Aberdeen. An Abbatial election is, without doubt, a defining moment in any religious community; much in the same way as is that of a Bishop, or indeed a Pope. The election will be presided over by the Abbot of Prinknash, the Right Reverend Francis Baird.

Pray that Our Blessed Lady, Saint John the Baptist and Saint Andrew, to whom the Abbey is dedicated, may be with the monks in their deliberations and that they be guided by our Holy Father St Benedict.

Fra' Fredrik Crichton-Stuart Requiem Mass - Videos

2011-07-05T18:31:00.036+01:00

After a number of failed attempts (so what's new), I have succeeded in editing (badly) and uploading parts of the video from Fra' Freddy's Solemn Requiem Mass. I do hope you find them satisfactory

Solemn Requiem Mass

2011-06-28T22:58:00.002+01:00

Today I attended Lauds and the Solemn Requiem Mass for H.E. Fra' Freddy Crichton-Stuart which took place at St Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral.

Mass was offered by Fr. J. Emerson FSSP with Fr Deighan as deacon and Fr. B. Gerard FSSP as sub-deacon. In choir was His Eminence Keith Patrick Cardinal O'Brien, H.E. Fra' Gheraldo Hercolani, Legate to H.E. Fra' Festing, Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Order of the Knights of Malta, His Grace Mario Conti Archbishop of Glasgow, Fr Hugh Gilbert Bishop Elect of Aberdeen (Abbot of Pluscarden), fellow Knights and Dames of the Knights of Malta, Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, Family and friends of Fra' Freddy.

I was given the honour of photographing this moving event and have uploaded a few which may be seen here and the slide show here

Archbishop Conti of Glasgow (right) with Bishop-elect Gilbert of Aberdeen on the left

Knights and Dames of the Order of Malta

His Eminence Cardinal O'Brien delivers the eulogy after Mass

I shall upload the video I took in the next day or two as my schedule permits (sorry for the delay).

Fra' Fredrik Crichton-Stuart R.I.P. UPDATE

2011-06-15T09:16:00.015+01:00

Yesterday I was informed of the death of Fra' Freddy. We first met in Pluscarden Abbey whilst we were both on a retreat many years ago. He became a friend, colleague and mentor to me and was instrumental in introducing me to the Old Rite (Forma Extraordinaria). We sat on the Una Voce Scotland committee over the past years, he as chairman, and saw each other on Sundays in Edinburgh where we attended Mass in the Usus Antiquior.

This professed religious of the Sovereign Military Order of St John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta (Knights of Malta) became the 56th Grand Prior of England, also Delegate of Scotland and the Northern Marches for the Order. A tireless worker for the Order and their many charitable undertakings.

He, like his forebears, was a devout Catholic. His great grandfather, the 3rd Earl of Bute, was the man who bought the ruins of Pluscarden Abbey and handed them over to the Benedictine community of Prinknash who turned it into one of the most thriving communities of monks in the UK today.

A prayerful man, a confidant and teacher who will be sorely missed by us all in Scotland.

Fra' Fredrik Crichton-Stuart (1940 - 2011)

Requiescat in pace

Details of Funeral Arrangements

Monday 27th June

Reception of remains and Vespers at 5 p.m. at St Mary’s Metropolitan Cathedral, Edinburgh.

Tuesday 28th June

Lauds at 10:30 a.m.

Solemn Requiem Mass at 11:15 a.m.

Celebrant Fr. John Emerson FSSP. His Eminence Keith Patrick Cardinal O’Brien, His Grace Archbishop Mario Conti and Knights of Malta will be in choir. Cardinal O’Brien will preach the homily.

There will be a reception in the Cathedral Hall after Mass.

Fra’ Freddy’s burial will take place at 3 p.m. at Mount Vernon.

Pentecost

2011-06-11T23:24:00.016+01:00

New Bishop of Aberdeen

2011-06-04T14:37:00.004+01:00

H.E. Bishop Peter Moran

Abbot Hugh Gilbert O.S.B.

PRESS RELEASE

At 12 noon today in Rome (11am GMT) it was announced, that Pope Benedict XVI had nominated Abbot Hugh Gilbert as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Aberdeen.

He will succeed Bishop Peter Moran who has been Bishop since 2003. Reacting to his appointment, Abbot Hugh who is currently Abbot of Pluscarden Abbey near Elgin said;

“The Holy Father, Benedict XVI, has nominated me to succeed Bishop Peter Moran as Bishop of Aberdeen. As a Catholic Christian and Benedictine monk, I accept this as the call of Christ, and, trusting in the help of God and the saints, intend to give myself wholeheartedly, like my predecessors, to the lay people, religious, priests and deacons of this beautiful diocese.”

The Bishop-elect added;

“I have much to learn, and it will not be easy to leave my monastery after 37 years. But I do so knowing that I am not going among strangers. I commend myself to the kind hearts and prayers of all whom I am called to serve. Together in Christ may we shine with the light of his Resurrection!”

Responding to the news Bishop Peter Moran said:

“After my nine years at the helm of Aberdeen Diocese, seven of them as Bishop, I am happy that the Holy Father has named Abbot Hugh Gilbert to take over as my successor. He is, of course, well known in the diocese to clergy and laity alike. I welcome him most warmly.

During his nineteen years as Abbot, Pluscarden Abbey has continued to be the serene spiritual heart of this diocese. I am confident that his spiritual leadership as bishop will bring many graces to the members of the diocese, and to the wider community, in the years to come.”

Reacting to the announcement, Cardinal Keith O’Brien, President of the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland said;

“I am delighted to welcome Abbot Hugh Gilbert, Abbot of Pluscarden Abbey, as the new Bishop of Aberdeen - and, consequently, as a member of the Bishops' Conference of Scotland. The name and the reputation of Abbot Hugh are well known outside the confines of his monastery. His spirituality and his writings, have inspired many throughout Scotland and indeed in other parts of the world. May God indeed bless him at this present time, as we say a very sincere thanks to his immediate predecessor, Bishop Peter Moran, who has fulfilled his apostolate as Bishop of Aberdeen and a member of our Bishops' Conference, in an exemplary manner.”

Commenting on the nomination Archbishop Mario Conti of Glasgow said;

"As native of Aberdeen diocese, where I spent 25 happy years as Bishop, I am delighted at the appointment of my second successor. The Abbot is well known to me. I had the joy of ordaining him priest almost 30 years ago and later of blessing him as Abbot of Pluscarden. If it can be said that Abbot Hugh's appointment is a loss to the Abbey, there is great gain for the diocese of Aberdeen and the wider Catholic community of Scotland in his being named Bishop. The news will be particularly welcomed in Aberdeen diocese, where Pluscarden has warm links with every part of the territory and is recognised as a thriving centre of spirituality, monastic practice and culture in the north of Scotland. Abbot Hugh has played a key role in the success story that is Pluscarden over the last few decades, a period which has seen it expand its influence far and wide.

I also wish to pay warm tribute to my friend and colleague Bishop Peter Moran whose resignation on age and health grounds has now been accepted. Bishop Peter's wise and warm leadership mean that Abbot Hugh will inherit a diocese in fine heart.

ENDS

Peter Kearney

Director
Catholic Media Office

This is joyous news indeed in two respects.

First for Bishop Moran who has soldiered on through continuing ill health for some months and who deserves to have his remaining time without the burden of responsibility that the Episcopate brings.

Second for Abbot Hugh, whom I have known for many years, and, as an oblate, he is my "boss" as Abbot of Pluscarden.

Please pray for both men and the communities of Pluscarden, the diocesan clergy, religious and laity of the Diocese of Aberdeen.

Te Deum Laudamus ................

The Clarification

2011-05-26T19:50:00.000+01:00

I have refrained from commenting thus far on Universae Ecclesiae as I am without doubt ill equipped either academically or endowed with sufficient wisdom to provide any meaningful opinion. That I have left to others such as the inestimable Fr. Z and that learned priest Fr Hunwicke. For those who wish to read the thoughts of these gentlemen please take the links here and here (there are additional threads but these will start you off nicely).

Having read their clarifications - note: clarifications not interpretations of the Latin original, I sadly recalled the Pope's request upon his elevation to the Chair of St Peter, to pray for him that he may be preserved from the wolves who surround him.

I truly find it incredulous (admittedly through nievity) that individuals based in the Vatican would put their very souls at risk just so their own agenda is promoted. I have read that translations in other languages such a Spanish are far more accurately translated; hence my belief it is individuals and not PCED or Ecclesia Dei per sae. To purposely omit crucial adverbs throughout is rather dissapointing to say the least. One or two, whilst deplorable, could be forgiven, but to consistently leave them out is, in my opinion, calculated.

It is not often I rant so please forgive me. I have thought, and prayed, about this injustice to the Pope and the Church's faithful for some days and still find myelf unable to let it go. Perhaps posting this will give me a closure of sorts.

60 and Still Kicking

2011-05-10T13:22:00.005+01:00

Well folks that dreaded day has finally arrived. Yesterday on the 3rd Class Feast of St Gregory of Nazianzen I left behind the 'Fighting 50s' and entered into the 'Swinging 60s' although with my creaking hip and knee joint that phrase is firmly in the my dreams category. I had thought of a more appropriate phrase when I started to type this blog entry but now can only come up with 'Senile 60s' which I am most certainly not. Oh, if only I could remember what that phrase was!

Anyway I have applied for my bus pass which should arrive in a week or so and then look out Scotland here I come. No corner will be safe from a visit by me. For those readers who reside outside Scotland you are eligible for FREE bus travel anywhere is Scotland once you reach the dignified age of sixty. Now I am retired and no longer jetting off to exotic climes I shall explore this beautiful country of mine - for free, which is something that warms any Scotsman's heart.

Holy Week in Edinburgh

2011-04-19T11:06:00.006+01:00

St Andrews Church, Belford Road, Edinburgh

Sacred Triduum

Maundy Thursday 21st April 5:00 pm Mass of Our Lord’s Supper

Good Friday 22nd April 3:00 pm Liturgy of the Passion

Holy Saturday 23rd April 8:30 pm Easter Vigil Mass

Easter Sunday 24th April 11:30 am Solemn Mass

Tenebrae

Thursday, Friday, Saturday 8:00 am St Mary’s Cathedral, Edinburgh

Yours truly will be in Edinburgh from tomorrow until Sunday where I shall be singing Tenebrae each morning and in the afternoon/evening be the oldest (and most befuddled) altar server assisting in the celebration of the Sacred Triduum liturgies. Please pray for my long suffering Schola Director (Alan) and Master of Ceremonies (John) as I bumble my way through each service.

To all my readers I pray that you found the strength to hold true to your Lenten observances and, as we draw close to Easter, that your Catholic faith and belief have deepened. For my main Lenten reading this year I chose "The Banished Heart" by Geoffrey Hull (2010 revised edition). So well written that even I was able to follow his train of thought; once I understood what 'heteropraxis' meant. I hope your readings were also edifying and inspiring.

From today's collect at Lauds (Monastic Diurnal):

Almighty and eternal God, grant that we may celebrate the mystery of our Lord's passion in such a manner as to deserve the pardon of our sins.

Kristo Buase - Ghana

2011-03-21T17:04:00.001Z

I found myself rather fortunate to be able to visit Kristo Buase, a dependant house of the English Province of the Subiaco Congregation, on two occasions in the past. The monastery was jointly founded in 1989 by Prinknash, Pluscarden and St. Augustine's Abbeys. Although a joint foundation and canonically under Prinknash, the monastery has, of late, been reliant on monks from Pluscarden. Fr Ambrose was there for some time but unfortunately suffered several serious illnesses one of which required several months recuperation in more favourable climes. Not for nothing is Africa known as the white man's graveyard! Fr Ambrose is now Procurator General of the Congregation and a member of it's curia based in Rome.

The current prior is Fr Giles of Pluscarden and, if rumours reaching me are correct, he may be joined later this year by Fr Bede, another Scotsman from Pluscarden Abbey - by way of St Mary's Petersham in the USA (a daughter house of Pluscarden), where he has spent the past few years.

A road market starts during a traffic hold up.

Kristo Buase means "Christ in the Rocks" and is situated in Northern part half of Ghana just a few kilometres north of Techiman a major town in the Brong Ahafo region. I travelled from Accra the Capital of Ghana located in the south of the country; the first part by air to Kumasi (the heartland of the Ashanti tribe), then taxi the second time driven the whole way by a fellow oblate (of Kristo Buase) named Benedictus in a hired car. This took us approximately 14 hours arriving at Kristo Buase just after Vespers. By this time my 'derrière' was rather numb having travelled over some unpaved roads (nigh on dirt tracks) for some time.

Frs. Ambrose and Giles made us most welcome as did all the community and we quickly settled in for our retreat after a health and safety briefing - mandatory use of mosquito nets and what to do in the event of an armed robber attack - yes it has happened on more than one occasion.

I felt immediately at home and quickly fell back into the rhythm of Benedictine life - ora et labora, here as at any monastic community. In choir the main difference was that the office is sung in English rather than Latin but thankfully with no frozen, high vaulted ceiling stone church robbing the voice and body of warmth.

Benedictus reads the first lesson at Sunday Mass

The monastery cultivates cashew nuts as a cash crop (so who said money does not grow on trees?). On my first visit Fr Ambrose kept pigs but that did not last for long. Food is simple and national dishes the norm. Thankfully having spent a few years living in Africa my stomach has learned to accept such fare. Poor Fr Giles has yet to reach that stage. When I saw him last at Pluscarden he looked decidedly thin.

Fond memories of a lovely small community, not without its trials, but full of trust in the Lord.

A fond farewell from two of the best dressed monks in Africa !

See some more photos HERE

Oblate News - bits and bobs

2011-02-22T13:49:00.001Z

I have recently joined a highly informative Benedictine Yahoo Group which I strongly urge all Oblates to join. The notes and commentaries are based on the Monastic Diurnal published by St Michael's Abbey Press (Farnborough Abbey) in England. The diurnal is in parallel Latin and English and is quite easy to follow, especially with the daily updates from the TradBen group. Additionally, there is a very useful and growing reference 'File' section containing, amongst others, an interpretation of the psalms. Please do visit this site.

A recent viewer's comment on a video I posted last year regarding the Oblate Weekend prompts me to remind fellow Benedictine Oblates that a double DVD is available to anyone in both PAL and NTSC versions for the price on a donation to Pluscarden Abbey. Most talks are recorded in High Definition. The talks could easily form topics for discussion during your regular oblate group meetings. PM me HERE if you are interested in more information on either subject.

Singing the Office on Retreat

2011-01-20T15:59:00.000Z

On Sunday we accompanied the community to the main island of Stronsay for Mass with the local island population and were delighted to be included in the schola for a Missa Cantata. (Whilst the F.SS.R. await full canonical status, the Bishop of Aberdeen has given them permission to offer Mass on Stronsay in addition to the Monastery on Papa Stronsay).

A nun at prayer after Mass at Stronsay Chapel

The Office of the Hours are sung mainly 'Tonus Simplex' by the F.SS.R., except for Feast Days and Sundays, using the traditional Roman Breviary. As Fr Michael Mary said, they are not a monastic community and their charism lies elsewhere.

Mark joined the community for the Office whist Alan and I, being Benedictine oblates, requested we be allowed to follow the Benedictine Office. Not only was this approved but we were given permission to use of the Holy Sepulchre Oratory which the Sons of The Most Holy Redeemer had converted from a cow barn. The interior was almost complete with furnishings rescued from a convent in Belgium including a wonderful altar, choir stalls and stations of the Cross. One brother commented how wonderful it was to know that prayers were being offered to God simultaneously in both chapels of the Monastery.

Under the expert leadership of Alan, the schola director of St Margaret's, I began to chant the Office using my Monastic Diurnal, Alan meanwhile using his Monastic Antiphonale. All went well for the first few days with Alan being most solicitous in assisting me with the psalm tones and antiphons. Disaster struck in the form of me losing my upper register from what can only be described as overuse on Wednesday. From 'singing like a linty' (a linnet [linty] is a small finch once very popular as a cage bird because of its melodious song), to singing like a bull frog.

For me this was heartbreaking as well as voice breaking, and so for the remainder of our retreat I had to sing sotto voce - another great lesson in humility! However this is the wonderful thing about retreats insofar as finding your spiritual strength through external and internal exercises. I for one would not change these opportunities in experiencing humility, charity and fraternity for anything.

More soon.

A Retreat to Golgotha Monastery

2011-01-10T16:07:00.000Z

Following the unforgettable day at Bellahouston during His Holiness's Visit to Scotland, what better way to finish off such a memorable occasion than to engage in another.

Safely home for one night to repack my luggage it was off by train to Inverness early next morning to join up with my two fellow retreatants who were driving up from Edinburgh. Three hours later I meet up with Mark and Alan for breakfast then hopped into Alan's car for the four hour journey to the North to get the afternoon ferry from Gill's Bay to St Margaret's Bay on the Orkney Isles. This part of Scotland's countryside is beautiful but bleak, with nary a wood or even tree in sight. Wild moorland where life is hard and luxuries are few yet rich in God's splendour and grandeur.

On the good ship Pentalina we were very pleasantly surprised to see a number of religious quietly reciting the Office - yes, the contingent of the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer who had made the pilgrimage to Bellahouston were also making their way home to Papa Stronsay.

After arriving in Orkney it was time for another ferry from Kirkwall to Stronsay before boarding the communities little yawl for the short crossing to Papa Stronsay. So, after a journey comprising of a train, car, two ferries, a bus and finally the wee "Alphonsis" we arrive safe and sound at Golgotha Monastery some 10 hours after setting off.

In honour of the Papal visit to Scotland the community loyally flew the papal flag throughout his visit. Was this the most northerly flag in the U.K.?

Fr Michael Mary soon had us billeted into our cells. Imagine my shock to be shown the "Bishop's Suite" complete with en-suite facilities and grand piano! Alan and Mark meanwhile were given monk cells within the quadrangle. So, my retreat subject matter was already chosen for me - Chapter 7 of The Rule on Humility.

A Mass of thanksgiving, Vespers, a light supper, compline then to bed.

More soon.

Oh Dear, is Belgium truly lost?

2010-12-23T10:52:00.002Z

Some might think this is not what they wish to read just before Christmas but I make no apologies for posting this. I am unable to express my feelings on this as emotion would overcome objectivity. I leave you to read, and more importantly PRAY for Belgium; this once proud and orthodox Catholic country. There is just so much wrong in this. O God come to our aid, O Lord make haste to help us!

"The Brussels Court of Appeal ruled on 21st September this year that the child, represented by his parents, could claim damages from physicians for the injury of being born disabled. 'Certainly, the misdiagnosis did not cause the child's disability, which existed before the error and which could not be remedied,' the Court considered. 'However, the injury which must be compensated is not the disability itself, but the fact of being born with such disabilities.'

"For the Court, the child would have had 'right' to an abortion if the disability had been correctly diagnosed. (my emphasis) Indeed, by making 'therapeutic abortion' part of Belgian law, 'the legislator must have intended to allow women to avoid giving birth to children with serious abnormalities, having regard not only to the interests of the mother, but also to those of the unborn child itself.'"

To quote the words of Mr Bumble in Oliver Twist - The Law is an Ass.

Thank you John Smeaton of SPUC for alerting us to this woeful business.

Read his full report HERE

Bellahouston – A Pilgrim Recollects

2010-12-08T16:07:00.005Z

Much has been spoken and written about the Pontiff’s visit to Bonnie Scotland. Indeed many an intellectual and theological debate before, during and after this historic trip took place with views covering all points of the compass.

I would like to give you my own, a layman’s experience of the historic Mass at Bellahouston.

I repositioned to Edinburgh the night before so I could join up early next morning with some brothers from the Edinburgh Province of the Knights of St Columba - we were to act as stewards at Bellahouston. My journey started at 6:00 in the morning at Waverley Station after a fairly good sleep on the sofa at my daughter’s flat. Met my confrères and at 6.30 the train set off for Glasgow. Little did I realise this would be the last time I sat down for 14 hours!

After legging it to between Glasgow stations, another train journey took us within walking distance of the KSC Headquarters where we received our accreditation wrist band, steward’s sash and some victuals. A bus ride to Bellahouston and after the obligatory search at the gate we joined another 100 brother knights for an HSE, security and general briefing.

10 a.m., another seven hours before Mass and my feet are already throbbing. I and another colleague are assigned Zone 2 which by happen stance is at the front (well, actually behind the reserved area containing rows of chairs set out for the bigwigs and other ne’er-do-wells). As noon arrives so to do the pilgrims from “a’ the airts and pairts”.

The media are out in force and, wearing the kilt complete with tweed jacket and waistcoat, I am the subject of more than a few requests to pose. Humility is restored next day as none of the dailies use any photos of me – thank you St Benedict for reminding me of Chapter 7 of the Rule.

Zone 2 fills up quite quickly as the afternoon wears on and by and large pilgrims do go to their allocated zones. A guilty furtive look in my direction tells all but I only smile. There are two mega large screens set up and everyone watches what is happening in Edinburgh on a ‘live feed’.

Three o’clock and most everyone is in the park. Looking around it is good to see so many religious sisters. I also find a contingent from Pluscarden Abbey and chat with the Prior, Br. Meinrad. The Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer are also there and I notice a couple of men dressed in brown scapulars with a large red cross emblazoned on the chest, chain criss-crosses their chests and they wear patent black leather cavalry thigh boots – an ancient chivalric order?

The arrival of His Holiness is met with loud acclamation and it seemed that reality suddenly hits home with an almost collective feeling of YES! THIS IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING. WOW!

The clergy process, the Pope completes the obligatory tour round the park to much acclaim, finally ascending the dais to commence the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

Now comes a truly seminal moment. Unlike my memories of this event made by his predecessor John Paul II, Bellahouston falls still – no hysterical cheering and 10 minute hand clapping whenever he spoke, no breakdown of any semblance of piousness and devotion during Mass. Instead silence, rapt attention to Pope Benedict’s words, his actions, his visible prayerful humility. A sermon from a wise father to his children; a message which should live daily in our hearts and actions.

Permit me to recount an incident I observed which bears witness to this assertion. In Zone 2 the last to arrive just before Mass commenced were a half a dozen burly young adults wearing football strip tops – Celtic Football Club of course. The security guard standing with me looked at me and we smiled at the sight. Mass duly started and after a few minutes I noticed one of the lads showed signs of unrest and kept looking behind me. I turned and noticed the security guard was the object of his attention. I saw he was using his mobile phone but as he was replacing it in his pocket thought no more of it. However the football supporters still looked unhappy and looked again at the security guard. Eventually the largest one, most definitely in the category of “I wouldn’t like to meet him on a dark night up an alley”, walked off accompanied by a media photographer. They approached the security chief and had a quiet word pointing to the guard who, on observing this, tried to make a hasty getaway.

So what had actually occurred? The guard had “The Sash” as his mobile phone ring-tone and was deliberately playing it. Now, if that is not a death wish in Scotland I don’t know what is! Fancy anyone playing that in a field of 70,000 devout Catholics. Now all this was carried out with the minimum of fuss, or disturbance, to anyone. Only we handful of people knew what had transpired. I am quite positive that had this taken place anywhere else the lads would have had more than a few choice words to say, if not physical contact, with the guard. But, there, that afternoon, they let nothing spoil their, or anyone else’s day. Hats off to you guys whoever you are.

Mass over and His Holiness departs. We are then entertained by Susan Boyle (who sings very flat during her second song), and pilgrims start to leave as they wish, contrary to the prepared script.

Eventually we arrive back in Glasgow QS station and have the choice of standing room only on the train about to depart or wait for the next and a seat. We opt for standing and an hour later we arrive in Edinburgh. I reach the flat after 10 p.m. and, with feet now feeling like the size of dinner plates, take off my boots. I make friends again with the sofa and fall asleep a very tired yet very happy pilgrim full of memories of a truly wonderful day.

Next day it is off home to prepare for a week’s retreat on Papa Stronsay – but that is another post.

A Fisherman's Reflection

2010-11-30T03:03:00.002Z

After August's busy schedule I did manage to spend a lovely week in early September with my eldest son salmon fishing on the River Dee in Aberdeenshire. Fly fishing does give rise to moments of reflection especially when surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the world (yes, ok, I am slightly biased). So what did I muse upon this year?

For years Dee anglers and riparian owners had only one one desire - catch as many fish as possible and retain them either for eating or selling on. The owners were happy as they could command high prices for their stretch of the river; the anglers as they caught large numbers of fish for their money. The drop in numbers of fish caught when it came, as it must, was rather sudden and dramatic.

After many years of tackling the problem from the wrong angle and after much input by a few visionaries, the new chairman and board members concluded that good governance in prioritising fish above the self interests of certain owners and anglers, in other words nurturing a more nature driven regime, was not only desirable but a necessity. Happily, despite procrastination by certain individuals and groups, the revised plan properly implemented and under firm guidance has produced a more educated body of people with Salmo Salar numbers in the Dee consistently rising over the past five years (catch numbers almost doubling).

My thoughts turned to the Church and how She too had suffered, BUT more importantly, how over the past five years things are slowly being addressed by a visionary.

I shall leave you to fill in the many missing blanks of this muse as I do not wish this to turn into a N.O. style sermon. I have neither the intellect or wish to do either. As usual these are only my simplistic jottings; nothing theological, Christological, evangelical or any other -------ical gobbledegook from me.

Edinburgh Festival and the St Margaret Schola

2010-11-18T16:20:00.000Z

Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep

Those who know me personally understand my penchance for Gregorian Chant and how I consider it far and away superior to any Kumbaya style singing at Mass or any other religious gathering. Yes, I know I am not very good at the chant and freely acknowledge my upper register was left behind during my pubescent years. My long suffering schola director just smiles now and raises his eyes to heaven as I warble off pitch and end up in the basso profundo region.

The schola was very kindly requested to assist St Mary's R.C. Cathedral choir during the world renown Edinburgh International Festival this year. Along with the very competent Cathedral choir under the direction of Simon Nieminski we sang Vespers each Saturday during August to audiences of 100 plus each week. In addition the schola sang Compline at 9 p.m. each Sunday evening; first Sunday in the Benedictine Rite, the following Sunday Roman, then Cistercian and on the last Sunday the Sarum usage.

Sarum is not a "Rite" as such and was only introduced latterly into Scotland just before the Reformation in Glasgow and Aberdeen Dioceses. As is was not widely used some serious research was required to ensure authenticity. It was particularly challenging as the Latin pronunciation is profoundly different in places and, should your attention waver, one may slip into the norm without noticing. Happy to say we were on form that evening and all syllables were clearly and correctly formed and enunciated.

Some examples:

Celi (Sarum spelling of cæli) - as in English “celestial”,

Genitrix – exactly as in English “generate”,

Ascendit – exactly as in English “ascent”.

Ecce – eck-say.

Dignus – dig-noose.

Between rehearsals and performances it was a very full month, with much travelling between Edinburgh and home. So full in fact I was unable to do any fly fishing at all - the things I give up for Holy Mother Church! Ach well at least the salmon were spared the sight of me splashing about the river like a beached whale whilst snagging my hook on every tree and bush on the banks.

I wonder if anyone else remembers the song from the words I used in the header?

Oblates Weekend - Monday UPDATED

2010-10-01T08:30:00.002+01:00

As the old adage goes - all good things must come to an end; and so it was for this Oblates Weekend.

Those fellow oblates with whom I spoke all agreed it had been very worthwhile, edifying both body and soul with many intellectually stimulating (and challenging) addresses by noted presenters.

The official programme ended most fittingly with Mass, the Homily being delivered by our much loved and respected Oblate Master Fr. Birrell and during which Oblates stood and verbally renewed their Oblations.

Pluscarden Oblates will have by now received their individual Oblation Renewal papers which should, in line with the norms, be renewed and signed ideally on the 21st November, the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lady.

Immediately after Mass both Fr. Birrell and Br. Michael departed for Kornelimunster in Germany to participate in a meeting of Subiaco monks from Northern Europe.

Will there be another Oblates weekend? Perhaps, but the logistics, costs and disruption to the community's Ora et Labora suggest this will be a one off. I have the feeling future Oblate "bashes" will be one day affairs. Until that day arrives Oblates may wish to join up with their local group meetings - addresses are in the latest Oblates letter.

UPDATE

The DVD is now available to all oblates. There was so much to include I made it into a double DVD set. Please email me initially with your details and I shall be happy to burn off a set for you.

A suitable donation (made payable to Pluscarden Abbey) should be enclosed in your confirmatory letter.

Oblates Weekend - Sunday

2010-09-29T23:20:00.003+01:00

Now firmly settled into the routine of the Community, Sunday commenced as usual with Vigils for the early-birds and a slightly later (approximately half an hour) Lauds, Prime and Terce for those wishing a long Sunday lie-in.

Conventual Mass was offered at 10.00 am and the first conference of the day followed thereafter. As I indicated in my previous post, today's conferences were held "indoors" and mutterings of 'I knew I should have packed me winter woollies' were quelled.

Fr Benedict was first up to the mark and gave a highly informative talk on Gregorian Chant; a subject on which he is a noted scholar and much sought after speaker though too modest to admit such. Father very quickly warmed us up, at least vocally, by encouraging us all to sing selected excerpts as we explored chant scripts and notations especially those from the famous Manuscript Einsiedeln 121 (circa 1000), St Gall Cantatorium MS (late 800's) and Laon MS (mid 900's).

The afternoon conference was given by a fellow Oblate, the Rev. Fr. Dr. Stuart Chalmers. Father chose an extract from his doctoral thesis - Conscience. Thankfully his style of delivery on what could have been a very dense subject, well to a dumbo like me anyway, ensured that no-one succumbed an afternoon "power nap" as today's jargon calls it.

After None there was time for confessions and soon a queue formed in the hallway and all four priests, including the Abbot, offered Our Lord's saving Grace for the good of our souls.

Following the evening offices of Vespers and Compline, not forgetting another pleasant supper, we settled down to a DVD made for us by Gabrielle Heitfeld-Panther, a German Cistercian Oblate and friend of Pluscarden Abbey. Gabrielle's video showed her life and activities as a mother and an Oblate. It was good to see how others fulfilled their life as an Oblate.

Oblates Weekend - Saturday

2010-09-17T20:50:00.002+01:00

An early morning start with a quiet drive from Elgin to the Abbey whilst most of the population remained asleep. A young deer which jumped out of the undergrowth onto my path provided the necessary wake up call as I drove. Thank goodness it was summer and, even so early in the morning, full daylight. Summer did I say? Well what passes for summer this year in Northern Scotland. Some oblates felt so cold we vacated the marquee and held the Sunday conferences in the transepts out of the rain, wind and less clement temperatures of an indifferent Scottish summer.

After the morning Liturgy and Office we settled down for the first Conference of the day described by our congenial host and master of ceremonies, Dom Birrell, as "A Keynote Address" by the Abbot, Fr Hugh Gilbert OSB, on Prophet, Priest and King. I waxed lyrically about this truly inspiring talk in an earlier post and can honestly this view was wholeheartedly agreed upon and discussed between fellow oblates over the weekend.

Although I cannot reproduce the entire video here due to You Tube restrictions I post the first 10 minutes below.

Sext was followed by lunch in the marquee accompanied by some excellent home pressed apple juice from the Abbey's orchard. We then attended None before settling down to a talk given by Brother Michael, the cellarer, on the duties of his position; an example of which he is demonstrating in this photo.

Vespers, a super supper in the marquee, followed by Compline then back to the marquee for the evening conference. Originally this was scheduled for a video talk from Fr Giles (seen on the extreme right in this photo avec bald pate, beard and either long shorts or short longs), the prior of Kristo Buase and monk of Pluscarden, a dependent house jointly founded by the Abbeys of Prinknash, Ramsgate and Pluscarden. Also seen are sisters from an experimental community of female religious nearby.

Unfortunately the videos did not arrive (The Ghana post office service is even worse than the Royal Mail) . Nothing daunted Fr Martin arranged an alternate evening conference for us and what a little gem of history it proved to be. A vintage video of the restoration of Pluscarden Priory from 1948 marking a truly historical event in Scottish Catholic annals. I do hope you enjoy it.

(shown by kind permission of Pluscarden Abbey)

Oblates Weekend - Friday

2010-08-28T13:55:00.000+01:00

Oblates arrived throughout the day in time to join with the community at Vespers which commenced at 6 pm. After Vespers it was time for supper for those residing in the Abbey's guest houses or, for those living outside, either a commute to the nearest chip shop for a decent fish supper (it was Friday after all) or just fast.

Fr Martin Birrell OSB - Oblate Master

Compline followed at 8 pm. and then the first conference of the weekend at 8.30 pm. This was a general hello, well met and general introduction from our Oblate Master Fr Martin followed by a short DVD outlining the historical background of the English Province of the Subiaco Congregation which may be viewed below.

Pluscarden Abbey is part of the English Province of the Subiaco Congregation; in itself part of the universal Order of St Benedict. Initially the English Province was exactly that, but now with Houses in Scotland, America, Mexico and Ghana it is more linguistically an English Province than geographical.

This subject was then enlarged upon by the Abbot Visitor of the Province, Fr Anselm Atkinson, Superior of St Mary's Monastery, Petersham, USA using two 30 minute DVDs especially commissioned for the occasion. St Mary's Monastery is a daughter house of Pluscarden and Fr Anselm is a monk from this Abbey.

It is my intention to include these two recordings in the media discs I will be producing of the weekend's conferences. Details in how to obtain a copy will be published at a later date - most probably via Fr Martin's next Oblate newsletter as these posts are mainly for fellow Oblates of Pluscarden Abbey. However if approval is given, and there is a demand, I may make them available (for a monetary donation to Pluscarden) to all readers.

Oblates Weekend - Format & Communal Prayers

2010-08-23T13:53:00.002+01:00

Over 50 Oblates attended the weekend with a number of us commuting daily as both male and female guest houses were naturally full. Yours truly was able to find a rather nice guest house in the lovely wee city of Eilginn (Elgin in English) approximately 10 miles from the Abbey. The pleasure of early morning and late evening travel was enhanced by the splendour of mother nature plus avoiding a cow which had escaped from a field, skittish deer on the road whose movements you could not second guess, pheasants, red squirrels, foxes, hare, rabbit and, not for the squeamish reader, crows feasting on road kill.

As one would expect in a monastic setting we too followed the routine of the Pluscarden community. Our days began with optional Vigils (4.45a.m.), Lauds (6a.m.) and Prime (7.30a.m.) - Mass and all other hours were deemed "expected to attend". Pluscarden Abbey is one of the few Benedictine communities in the U.K. which continues to use Latin throughout its liturgy. Booklets were kindly prepared so we could follow the Office of the Hours and Mass in Latin / English. There were three conferences each day - morning, afternoon and evening with free time available for individual spiritual reflection. Very wholesome meals of lunch and supper were provided by the Abbey in our marquee which doubled up as our refectory. Our day ended usually around 9.30p.m.

Pluscarden Grace before Lunch

Superior: Oculi omnium

All: in te sperant, Domine, et tu das illis escam in tempore opportuno, aperis tu manum tuam, et imples omne animal in beneplacito.

Superior: Kyrie eleison

All: Christe eleison, Kyrie eleison.

Superior: Pater Noster....(silently until).... et ne nos inducas in tentationem

All: Sed libera nos a malo.

Superior: Benedic, Domine, nos et haec tua dona, quae de tua largitate sumus sumpturi. Per Christum Dominum nostram.

All: Amen

Pluscarden Grace after Lunch

Superior: Confiteantur

All: tibi Domine, omnia opera tua; et sancti tui benedicant tibi.

Superior: Laudate Dominum omnes gentes, collaudate eum, omnes populi.

All: Quoniam confirmata est super nos misericordia eius et veritas Domini manet in aeternum.

Superior: Gloria Patri et Filio, et Spiritui Sancto,

All: Sicut erat in principio et nunc et semper, et in saeculo saeculorum. Amen.

Superior: Agimus tibi gratius, omnipotens Deus, pro universis

All: Amen

Superior: Tribuat Dominus benefactoribus nostris pro terrenis caelestia, pro temporalibus sempiterna.

All: Amen

Pluscarden Grace before Supper

Superior: Edent pauperes

All: et saturabuntur, et laudabunt Dominum, qui requirunt eum: Vivant corda eorum in saeculum.

Superior: Kyrie eleison

All: Christe eleison, Kyrie eleison.

Superior: Pater Noster....(silently until).... et ne nos inducas in tentationem

All: Sed libera nos a malo.

Superior: Ad coenam vitae aeternae perducat nos rex aeternae gloriae.

All: Amen

Pluscarden Grace after Supper

Superior: Deus, veniae largitor et humanae salutis amator, quaesumus clementiam tuam, ut nostrae Congregationis fratres, sarores, propinquos et benefactores qui ex hoc saeculo transierunt, beata Maria semper Virgine intercedente eum omnibus Sanctis tuis, ad perpetuae beatitudinis consortium pervenire concedas. Per Christum Dominum nostrum.

All: Amen.

Superior: Memoriam

All: fecit mirabilium suorum misericors et miserator Dominus. Escam dedit timentibus se. Gloria Patri et Filio et Spiritui Sancto, sicut erat in principio et nunc et semper, et in saeculo saeculorum. Amen.

Superior: Benedictus Deus in donis suis, et sanctus in omnibus operibus suis, qui vivit et regnat in saecula saeculorum

All: Amen.

Superior: Tribuat Dominus benefactoribus nostris pro terrenis caelestia, pro temporalibus sempiterma.

All: Amen

Prayer in Memory of St Benedict

Standing in the oratory,

Benedict, whom God so loved

strengthened with holy communion,

and supporting his failing limbs

in the arms of his disciples,

died praying with his hands raised to heaven,

and his soul was seen to ascend heavenwards

on a path strewn with rich coverings

and shining with innumerable lights.

V In the sight of God you appeared most worthy,

R Therefore he clothed you with beauty.

Let us pray.

O God, who adorned the precious death of our Holy Father Saint Benedict with so many and such great privileges; grant, then, that when we come to die, we may be defended from the snares of the enemy, by the blessed presence of him whose memory we recall. Though Christ our Lord.

R Amen

May the sweet name of our Lord Jesus Christ, and that of His most holy Mother, be praised for ever.

R Amen.

Pluscarden Oblates Weekend

2010-08-06T19:10:00.021+01:00

Introduction

Readers know that I am a bit of a wanderer and have blogged about places far and wide but nevertheless I have not lost sight of the fact I am an Lay Oblate of Pluscarden Abbey. It was therefore with great joy and deep gratitude to Father Abbot, the Community at Pluscarden and our venerable oblate master Dom Martin that an Oblates Weekend was arranged for the weekend 31st July until 2nd August.

The meeting came about as a consequence of the Oblates World Congress in Rome in 2009. Our Abbey was represented by the indomitable Margaret Coll whose report on the Congress was included in a previous edition of the Oblate Newsletter. Also in attendance over the weekend was a committee member of Benedictine Oblates (UK), Jane Coll (and NO for the hundredth time, I'm not Margaret Coll's sister). Look at this photo and then you can make up your own mind.

I shall try to précis most of the talks given over the weekend although this will most certainly require at least two further entries to do this most memorable experience some degree of justice. At the behest of Fr Martin I took up both my camera and camcorder to "record" the highlights (and there were many). Some of the photographs may be accessed HERE but I regret that due to the very restrictive nature of YouTube (maximum of 10 minute clips) I cannot post the videos as most talks were in the region of 45 minutes to 1 hour plus a Q & A session.

All is not lost however as it is my intention to produce a DVD containing the 4 main talks and make these available to Oblates on request; subject of course to Fr. Abbot's approval. Let me say Fr. Abbot's talk on Prophecy, Priesthood and Kingship is a definite must hear! And no, I did not write that just to ensure a positive response from Fr. Abbot - honestly.

Owning to a very full diary over the next couple of weeks I shall have to leave you all on tenterhooks as my ability to blog will be non existent (I shall be bobbing about on the high seas).

Happy Tidings - Vocations

2010-07-26T11:04:00.003+01:00

We are often assailed with the reality of drastic falls in the numbers of priestly and religious vocations in today's world. Well, here is some good news.

I was very pleased indeed to receive a telephone call from Mark, a wonderful young gentleman and one whom I count as a dear friend, that after some wait he has finally received news from Rev. Fr. Banauch the rector of the FSSP seminary at Wigratzbad in Germany. What news? He has been accepted as a seminarian and commences studies for the Sacred and Holy Priesthood in October. Deo Gratias!

(photos from orbiscatholicus.blogspot.com)

We had the rare privilege in attending the priestly ordinations at Wigratzbad in 2009 (click here for link to post) and I think this may have been one of the defining moments in Mark's discernment of his vocational journey.

Mark is the second "home grown" Scottish Catholic to join the FSSP (the first being Rev. Fr. Harkins FSSP who celebrated his First Solemn Mass in Edinburgh last month (see earlier post).

For those unfamiliar with our situation in Scotland we only have one small FSSP community in Edinburgh attending the usus antiquior, usually numbering about 50 - 70 at Sunday Mass. However that number belies the fact that in the past two years we have witnessed with great joy and thanksgiving a total of FIVE young men and women setting out on their journey of faith. Helen to St Cecilia's Benedictine Abbey on the Isle of Wight, Yanush to the Carthusian Charterhouse at Parkminster, England. This summer Garry and Christian finished their studies at Edinburgh University and both have been accepted as seminarians for their respective English Diocese. Now, Mark is commencing his journey in October.

Time and again we hear and read of the remarkable phenomenon regarding the steady, and in some cases rapid, increase in vocations in Orders and Societies which either continue or have reverted to follow the traditional liturgy, teachings and way of life. At the same time "modern" seminaries continue to close through lack of vocations. Here is Scotland we have no seminaries at all. Diocesan seminarians now have to travel overseas to be formed - how tragic and sad that it has come to this.

Please pray for Mark and all young men and women who have started their journey to the priestly or religious life that through the Power of The Holy Ghost they will continue to grow in faith and love of God our Father and our Saviour Christ Jesus.

O Holy Spirit, Spirit of wisdom and divine love, impart Your knowledge, understanding, and counsel to youth that they may know the vocation wherein they can best serve God. Give them courage and strength to follow God's holy will. Guide their uncertain steps, strengthen their resolutions, shield their chastity, fashion their minds, conquer their hearts, and lead them to the vineyards where they will labour in God's holy service.
Amen.

Mary Mother of God - pray for them,
St John Vianney - pray for them,
St Benedict - pray for them,
St John Ogilvy - pray for them.

Our Lady of Aberdeen

2010-07-11T20:00:00.010+01:00

Friday the 9th of July was our Patronal Feast Day in the Diocese of Aberdeen therefore a First Class Feast Day. Unfortunately I was amazed to find out that in my local chapel there was not even a mention of this Feast never mind a Mass in Her Honour.

A Little history

Located in a side chapel in a Brussels church is one of Scotland's treasures, a statue of Our Lady and Child which was saved from destruction in Aberdeen during the Reformation. For sixty-five years, it was hidden until it was shipped to safety in the Low Countries. Despite her intention to keep the statue in the Royal Palace, the Infanta of Spain, the Archduchess Isabella, was persuaded to place it in the newly built Augustinian church in Brussels.

The statue remained in this church until 1796, when it was again removed for protection into private hands, this time to escape the ravages of the French Revolution. An Englishman, John Morris, safely restored it to the Augustinians in 1805 and it remained in their care as an object of devotion until 1814 when it was removed to the neighbouring Church of Our Lady of Finisterre. It is still venerated there as Our Lady of Good Success.

Since the Restoration of the Scottish Hierarchy in 1878, devotion to Our Blessed Lady in Aberdeen, throughout the diocese, and further afield, has focused on copies of this ancient statue including the statue (above) which stands in the Chapel of Our Lady at Saint Mary's Cathedral Aberdeen. Why won't the Belgians give us back the original statue?

Here is the old version of the Hymn to Our Lady:

Our Lady of Good Succour,

In the city by the sea,

Where the Don flows down the valley

To greet the silver Dee,

The ashes of faith still smoulder

Where the fire of the faith has been:

Bring the old faith back to Scotland

Our Lady of Aberdeen.

Our Lady of Good Succour,

In the country saints have trod,

While martyrs and brave confessors

Who gave their lives for God,

O hear the prayer of Columba,

Of Margaret, Saint and Queen:

Bring the old faith back to Scotland

Our Lady of Aberdeen.

Our Lady of Good Succour,

The love of God grows cold

In a country that has forgotten

The saving truths of old;

But a brighter dawn is breaking

And a fairer hope is seen:

Bring the old faith back to Scotland

Our Lady of Aberdeen.

Our Lady of Good succour,

In the happy days of old

Men deck'd thy gracious image

With silver and with gold;

Though darker days succeeded

Thou still art Scotland's Queen,

Come back, come back to Scotland,

Our Lady of Aberdeen.

As I said this is the old version. Some years ago I sadly recall the then Bishop of Aberdeen, Bishop Conti, (currently Archbishop of Glasgow) commissioned new wording to make it more "ecumenical" so as not to upset the Protestants. Phrases such as 'the old faith' were removed and replaced with PC wording.

Reflecting on this version I marvel that, whilst written approximately one hundred years ago by Mother Francis Forbes R.S.C.J., its currency remains as true today as when penned by this devout Scottish religious.

My local chapel may not have honoured Our Lady but I was very pleased to find at the FSSP chapel in Edinburgh today that this was chosen as the recessional hymn. Also that wonderful community The Sons of The Most Holy Redeemer wrote a fine article on their blog. Strange the only two places I visited which honoured this Feast day were Traditional communities!

First Solemn High Mass In The Presence of a Prelate

2010-06-06T00:53:00.024+01:00

Well the great day has arrived, and what a great day it proved to be. Outside the sun shone from a clear blue sky and the temperature rose to a very respectable 22C (for Scotland that is).

Inside the Metropolitan Cathedral Church of the Archdiocese of St Andrew and Edinburgh, a large congregation gathered to hear Rev. Fr. Simon J Harkins, FSSP, offer his First Solemn High Mass following his ordination to the sacred priesthood on the 22nd May 2010.

Fr Simon Harkins FSSP seen in the centre.

Seminarians from both FSSP seminaries of Denton, USA and Wigratzbad, Germany joined by their rectors, Very Rev. Fr. Josef Bisig and Very Rev. Fr. Franz-Karl Banauch, fellow priests of the Society, a contingent from the Community of The Sons of The Most Holy Redeemer (who have five seminarians at Denton) plus local diocesan priests filled the choir stalls.

In addition, and what I have been informed may be a "world first", was the attendance of a Cardinal at a First Solemn High Mass in his own Cathedral Church since the Reformation, namely His Eminence Keith Patrick Cardinal O'Brien who preached the homily.

The St Andrew Camerata performed the "Paukenmesse" and "Te Deum" by Joseph Haydn with orchestra, plus "Ecce Sacerdos" by Jose Mauricio Nune Garcia.

See full set of Photos here

Cardinal O'Brien's Homily here

Videos

First Mass of Rev. Fr. Simon Harkins FSSP

2010-05-27T10:36:00.004+01:00

For those who follow this blog you will know I lean very heavily toward the "Forma Extraodinaria" as it is currently named. Hopefully a more fitting name will be announced by His Holiness in due course.

It is therefore with great pleasure that I take this opportunity in announcing details of the official First Mass of Rev. Fr. Harkins FSSP, ordained to the Holy Priesthood on the 22nd May 2010 by Bishop Bruskewitz in the Traditional Rite.

The Metropolitan Cathedral Church
of the
Diocese of St. Andrew and Edinburgh

Saturday 5th June 2010

1 p.m.

Not only will His Eminence Patrick Kieth Cardinal O'Brien be in attendance, he will also preach the homily.

It is believed that this will be the first time a Cardinal will participate in a First Mass, certainly in the Traditional Rite, in moderm times. Please support this son of Scotland as he commences his sacred ministry by attending this joyous occasion.

Direction to the Cathedral

The Cathedral is located at the East End of Edinburgh city centre near the St. James' Shopping Centre. The Cathedral faces the Picardy Place roundabout which is the junction of Broughton Street, York Place, Leith Street and Leith Walk.

You can see a map of the area at MultiMap where a red circle at the centre of the map pinpoints the exact location of the Cathedral.

I shall be attending and will hopefully receive permission to photograph / video this event to publish on this site.

Winter Wanderings - Part 4

2010-05-17T19:27:00.007+01:00

Masteiro da Santa Cruz

Owing to my late arrival on Friday the community were already asleep but a couple of the lay brothers were 'taking the evening air' and so after saying goodnight to the da Costas I found my cell and rested my weary head.

A little bit of history to start with. This small traditional Benedictine community of 10 monks was founded 18 years ago following a petition from the local people. The founding monks came from Barroux, the first attempt failed, but, thanks be to God, the second remains. On this occasion the strength of faith and determination shone through, plus of course it helps if one of the founding fathers is a family member. Again the da Costa family amply demonstrated their faith in donating a large plot of land specifically for the building of a monastic community. To date this devout family has given the Church three family members, all Benedictine religious; Dom Tomas de Aquino - Prior of Santa Cruz, plus a brother and sister in the Monastery of Bellaigue in France.

Located in the hills surrounding Nova Friburgo the temperature is quite temperate with frosts experienced during the Brasilian winter months. Interestingly the hills to the north are known as the Caledonian Mountains (a little nostalgic pause).

Dom Tomas being absent, Dom Antonio (seen here) in true Benedictine spirit, made me most welcome. This mild mannered, humble monk is truly an inspiration to all.

Language as usual was my weakness however the one thing that united us all and was understood by all was the Latin Liturgy. Fortunately being a Benedictine Oblate I was able to use my Monastic Diurnal to great effect and was able to join the community during the Office.

Br. Jose at prayer behind the Rood Screen. He has received his tonsure en route to being ordained into the priesthood.

A view of the monks cells.

Behind the cells you may see an Ipe Roxo tree in flower. The flowers are a vivid purple and only appear during Lent. How appropriate!

To see more photos in this Lenten set please click here.

Winter Wanderings - Part 3

2010-04-27T22:31:00.013+01:00

Nova Friburgo

This year looked very much as though there would not be an opportunity to make a Lenten Retreat. However I had not taken into account the generosity and friendliness of the SSPX community. No sooner had I intimated that I was a Benedictine Lay Oblate than I was informed about Masteiro da Santa Cruz, a Benedictine Monastery of the traditional rite only a couple of hours from Rio near the city of Nova Friburgo. What my hosts could not understand however was the word Lent, or Lenten. It was not until I said quadragesima that the penny dropped. Classic case of an idiotic Anglo who thinks everyone should understand English! Five minutes later and I was furnished with the name and telephone of a contact who might be able to assist.

Next day I was able to make contact with a delightful lady called Teresa Ferreiro da Costa who, as good fortune would have it, happened to teach English to students. Soon all was ready for a weekend retreat.

The journey was by bus and being rather keen to see as much as possible of the country en-route I decided to sit at the front window seat. Only a short while later as we made our way around numerous mountainsides I realised this was not quite my scene after all and quickly made a mental note to sit at the back on an inside seat. The journey was not for the faint hearted!

Teresa and some of her wonderful family pose in front of the Cathedral

Two and a half hours later we arrived, safely, at Nova Friburgo and I was able to put the pacemaker back into normal mode. Nova Friburgo was settled by Swiss colonists at the request of the King of Portugal and as most of the emigres were from the Friburg area in Switzerland they naturally called it New Friburg. There is still a strong connection with the "home country" and exchange visits are very well received. My host, accompanied by some of the family, took me to see many wonderful sights including a trip to a Swiss Cheese maker.

The Swiss Cheese Factory

Our Lady's Statue in the quadrangle of the Jesuit School (formally a Jesuit seminary)

After a lovely day sightseeing I was kindly invited to have dinner at the da Costa home which is close to the monastery. After a very pleasant meal it was time to complete the day's journey and so off to the monastery and to bed.

Winter Wanderings - Part 2

2010-04-10T19:15:00.004+01:00

Rio Revisited - Lent 2010

It's Lent so it must be Rio. Carnival week with its gloriously unashamed fun, fun and more fun - but not for me. Ochone, ochone. Ach well I'm a bit long in the tooth for looking at all those scantily dressed lassies in the parades.

Mass and devotions, now that's more my cup of tea (Earl Grey of course). Where to find a traditional Mass is a mega problem in Rio. Almost as scarce as hens teeth or a TLM in Scotland. Fortunately I found a friend in Google. So, for the faint hearted I shall come out now and publicly say - yes I went to an SSPX chapel throughout Lent in Rio. There, I've said it and feel much better for it.

For me it was a rather pleasant experience with an unexpected bonus as you will find out later in this, or probably the next post. The Chapel of San Miguel is actually the drawing room of the house of Mr and Mrs Fleichman who, on returning from Europe to find no vestage of the Old Mass remaining, are dedicating their remaining years to promote traditional Catholicism. She may be seen below (second lady from the left).

Mass is offered either by a young SSPX priest residing at the fraternity's church on the outskirts of Rio or by Dom Lorenzo OSB, who happens to be the son of Mrs Fleichman. The attendance at chapel is normally so large that it overflows into the courtyard. Like so many Traditional Masses I have attended I am constantly surprised, pleasantly I must add, by the numbers of young Catholics who treasure the traditional teachings and liturgy of the Church.

Hearing Confessions An eloquent Speaker

Dom Lorenzo began his monastic vocation at Barroux in France under the guidance of Dom Gerard, transferring to Brasil as one of the founding monks of Sancta Cruz Monastery. Dom Lorenzo now spends his time outside the community preaching and offering Mass wherever he is asked.

Fortunately for me he spoke a little English so we were able to have a small conversation after Mass. I was also very fortunate to be introduced to Adriano who spoke very good English and lived in the same area of Rio as my hotel so he kindly gabve me a lift back on a couple of occasions which saved me very expensive taxi fares.

All in all a wonderful opportunity to meet some very kind people and not to be missed if you are ever out that way. How kind, well you will have to wait for my next posting.

Holy Week in Edinburgh

2010-03-29T10:16:00.007+01:00

HOLY WEEK MASS TIMES

St An d r ew' s Roma n Ca t ho l i c Ch u r ch ,
77 Be l fo r d Ro a d , Ra v e l s t o n, E d in b ur g h

Sunday 29th March : Palm Sunday

11:30 am, Procession and Sung Mass

Thursday 1st April : Maundy Thursday

7.00 pm, High Mass

Friday 2nd April : Good Friday

3.00 pm, Solemn Liturgy

Saturday 3rd April : Vigil Mass of Easter

8.00 pm, Easter Vigil and Holy Mass

Sunday 4th April :Easter Sunday

11:30 am, High Mass

TENEBRAE

S t Ma r y ' s Roma n Ca t ho l i c Cat h e d r al,
P i c a r d y P la c e , Ed i nb u r g h , EH1 3 JD

Thursday 1st April : Maundy Thursday 10.00 am

Friday 2nd April : Good Friday 10.00 am

Saturday 3rd April : Holy Saturday 10.00 am

Tenebrae will be sung by the Edinburgh Schola of St Margaret.

Please do come along to any of the services during the week; you will be made most welcome.

Winter Wanderings - Part 2

2010-03-07T21:00:00.003Z

Convent of Lanherne Revisited

As is my wont in early December (and June) I make the long journey from the North East of Scotland to Cornwall, a distance of over 500 miles. Why? well, fishing of course. December is the last opportunity to help feed my family in bringing home a good fresh wild salmon for the Christmas table - dream on brother!

The other great pleasure is another opportunity to re-visit Lanherne Convent. Sunday started off with Lauds (initially outside until some kind person unlocked the chapel door), Rosary then Mass, the 1st Sunday in Advent, finishing off with the exposition of a relic of St. Cuthbert Mayne, one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales. It was good to see the numbers of parishioners attending seems to have grown since my last visit in June, despite the awful weather (constant rain).

The Altar rails had been replaced after the new carpet was laid and, after more politically correct type hypocrisy from Heritage England or some such busy body organisation, retrospective permission had been granted to return the High Altar to the position it had occupied for centuries!

Fr. Rothe remembered me from my last visit and asked how the fishing was going - badly was the answer, too much rain. What a memory; I'm lucky to remember what day of the week it is!

During the week I returned with an offering for the community. One of the lads had spent the day shooting and returned with two brace of pheasants for me to pass on to the Community. I duly took them up and although Fr Rothe was absent I was able to hand them over to Fra George, a Londoner, who stared at the birds and whilst accepting them, I knew he was somewhat perplexed as to what should be done with them. After some words of advice he seemed a little more relaxed. Hopefully they graced the Christmas table.

Please continue to pray for the Community. The NLM have also updated their information on Lanherne which is very informative. The link is here.

Oh, in case you are interested, yes I did manage to catch a salmon but no, I did not bring it home. Instead I donated it to the local fish hatchery where it is kept and when ready the eggs will be collected, fertilised and cared for until the young fish are released back into the river the following year. I was informed they could be up to 5000 eggs which is a prodigious amount. My little bit for sustainable fishing.

Winter Wanderings - Part 1

2010-02-22T16:00:00.005Z

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception - Beijing

In January the Catholic Herald wrote a small article regarding the Italian Bishop of Macerata reopening the canonisation cause of Fr. Matteo Ricci.

This reminded me of a recent business visit to China where I was able to visit the Cathedral of The Immaculate Conception in downtown Beijing. The church is currently under His Excellency Archbishop Joseph Li Shan, one of the few Bishops who is recognised both by the Vatican and the Chinses Patriotic Catholic Church. The first building was erected in 1605 whilst the current Cathedral, the fourth on the site, was built approximately 400 years later in 1904. The previous (third) building was destroyed during the Boxer revolution.

Statue of Fr Matteo Ricci

The statue has been placed in the centre of the forecourt of the Cathedral Grounds indicating the importance of Fr Ricci to the Chinese Catholic community even now, 400 years after his death.

Inside the Cathedral is a mixture of ancient and modern (bling). As may be seen in the photo below, electronic display boards have been placed on pillars two thirds of the way down the nave. The information does not, as one would assume, display hymn numbers, Kyriale etc but, much more importantly, the current date, time and inside temperature!

The maps I had were not very helpful in finding the Cathedral but asking the locals proved much better. All I needed was to show them my Rosary and their eyes lit up. Amid much gesticlulation and chatting in Mandarin (they stopped when they noticed my eyes glazing over in complete incomprehension as to what they were saying), I soon found the place.

Whilst there I took the opportunity to recite Lauds despite the constant chatting of two ladies at the back who were busy eating their morning snack complete with chopsticks. Lauds duly completed I surveyed the interior and lo and behold the two ladies were now manning the information table at the entrance and devoutly praying the Rosary.

Within the ground of the Cathedral I noticed a group of nuns who are responsible for numerous ministries within the Catholic community, especially the adjoining health clinic, catechism classes and welfare of the priests.

To see more photos in this set please click here.

Priestly Ordinations - FSSP Seminary 2009

2010-02-04T23:23:00.021Z

At last I have finally sussed out how to create a video. So, many months late, I am able to share this wonderful occasion. You will clearly see I am not a professional but trust this does not distract from the joyous event.

In case you are wondering the organist is playing Charles-Marie Widor's Toccata (Symphony No.5 for Organ).

Second Part

Third Part

Fourth Part

Fifth (and final) Part

Autumnal Wanderings - Part 2

2009-11-26T12:00:00.002Z

Torphichen Preceptory

photo courtesy of pariscub

Torphichen is derived from the Gaelic: torr-fithichean , 'the raven's hill'.

On Saturday 14th November Una Voce Scotland held another in its series of 2009 Autumnal pilgrimages. A goodly number of members and friends made their way to Torphichen Preceptory, the Scottish seat of the Grand Priory of England of the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta (commonly known as the Knights of Malta).

Many of the Scottish Knights and Dames attended in the regalia of the Order which added a further welcome dimension to the pilgrimage, attending Mass in a location their confreres would have done daily centuries ago. They were led by the Grand Prior of England, Frà Fredrik Crichton-Stuart.

A Missa Cantata was offered by Monsignor Boyle, national Chaplain of Una Voce Scotland, and the society's good friend Fr. Emerson FSSP attended in Choir.

St Margaret's Banner leads the procession with Una Voce Schola seen in background

Kneeling in Adoration

A Group Photo

In the centre from left to right - Mgr Boyle, Fr Emerson, Frà Fredrik Crichton-Stuart

The Knights of Malta have a somewhat potted history in Scotland. Although Scotland was, by Papal Bull, regarded as having an independent hierarchy in the Roman Catholic Church, (much to the chagrin of the English Archbishops of York who always claimed fiefdom), the Knights of Malta did not confer Scotland the same autonomous status and kept in under the English Langue. They backed, and died in battle, for the English in the Scottish wars of Independence and left (banished?) after the English defeat at the Battle of Bannockburn, returning later having made peace with Robert the Bruce. During the reformation the last Preceptor, Sir James Sandilands, sold the property of the Knights to the Scottish Crown then bought it back on a personal basis in the process adding further to his existing titles; that of Lord Torphichen.

Once again Una Voce Scotland was very fortunate to have the pilgrimage recorded on video and a DVD will hopefully be on sale in the near future. A good Christmas present for someone perhaps?

To see more photographs from this set click HERE

Autumnal Wanderings - Part 1

2009-11-12T12:56:00.007Z

Cambuskenneth Abbey

Una Voce Scotland held it's second pilgrimage to Cambuskenneth Abbey recently.

Cambuskenneth Abbey was originally founded in 1140 by canons of the Arrouaisian Order and subsequently taken over by the Augustinians. The Abbey became the most powerful in the land partly no doubt in being located so close to Stirling and having Royal patronage. King James III and Queen Margaret of Scotland are buried here. Since the reformation the buildings were systematically pulled down and now, other than foundations peeking through the ground, the only extant building remaining is the bell tower (seen on the left of the print).

The celebrant on this occasion was Fr John Emerson FSSP with Mgr Boyle attending in choir. Mass was a Missa Cantata of Our Lady with the Una Voce Schola performing to its usual high standards.

The congregation start to gather within the Bell Tower. Apart from a couple of small windows the only illumination comes from the door.

Thankfully it was a lovely autumn day so the sun shone brightly enough for Father to read his Altar Missal.

The indomitable Mgr Boyle resplendent in choir dress.

Father John delivering another of his wonderful sermons. An excellent orator in the Thomist tradition.

A group photo

To view more photographs in this set click HERE

Una Voce Scotland's next pilgrimage will be to Torphichen Preceptory on Saturday 14th November 2009 at 11:00am This was the seat of the Order of St John of Jerusalem (Knights of Malta) in Scotland who will also be in attendance.

Pluscarden Abbey Sacred Music Symposium 2009

2009-09-29T19:42:00.000+01:00

Fr. Abbot's Welcome

Fr. Hugh Gilbert, Abbot of Pluscarden Abbey, opens the Symposium to a very large number of attendees averaging approximately 100 daily during the three day event. With him on the podium is Fr. Benedict (on the right) and Br. Michael.

Many congratulations to them in particular and the Pluscarden Community in general for what proved to be a very high quality symposium with excellent speakers demonstrating the rich quality of Sacred Music in Scotland during the last millenium and continuing today.

Plusacrden Abbey has posted a precis of this wonderful event, including the three day programme, and this can be seen HERE on the Pluscarden Abbey website.

Dr. Jamie Reid-Baxter

A wonderful, highly knowledgeable and colourful speaker. An excellent choice to start the symposium. His theme was "The Sacred Music of Robert Carver".
Later that evening Dr. Reid-Baxter assisted the Musick Fyne Choir in their performance of Carver's "Mass for St Michael".

Dr. James MacMillan CBE talks with Fr. Benedict OSB

The world renown Scottish composer Dr. MacMillan, on the right, presented a paper on "The Spirit of the Liturgy: Reform of the Reform."

Musick Fyne Soloists accompanied by Mediaeval Bray Harp

During the first evening's concert the Scottish Choral group Musick Fyne sang "A Mass for St Michael", a sumptuous ten part Mass by the Scottish composer Robert Calvert (c1487-1568). This Mass was first sung in the Scottish Chapel Royal in 1513.

Mr Tim Duguid, Doctoral Student, Edinburgh University

Tim gave an inspiring talk on Early Scots Metrical Psalm Singing. His inate humour and knowledge of his subject ensured an attentive audience and well received presentation.

Mmm. That sounds interesting!

Musicologists, liturgists, composer and just plain honest folk attentively listening to excellent presentations.

Mrs Margaret Stewart

Mrs Margaret Stewart, a leading exponent in the Gaelic singing of the Psalms.

The psalms are led by a precentor (who is permitted to choose whichever pitch he feels comfortable in) with the congregation responding. This style of psalmody has been a cornerstone in the Highlands and Islands, particularly within the Gaelic speaking communities since the Reformation.

To view all pictures in this set please click HERE

Traditional Retreats in Scotland

2009-08-01T11:55:00.000+01:00

Pluscarden Abbey

Low Mass - 2008

Our Retreat Master - Fr John Emerson FSSP

Miss Cantata with the Schola of Sanctae Margaritae

Elizabeth renews her vows as a lay oblate of Tyburn Convent on the occasion of her 40th anniversary as an Oblate to that Community.

Three Wise Men?

View all photos here.

Rio de Janeiro

2009-07-26T21:56:00.000+01:00

Our Lady of Glory

A beautiful and historic church in Rio de Janeiro, built in 1739, set on top of a small promontory in what is now the centre of a bustling city. Looking at old paintings of Rio as a small settlement, this church seems to appear in every one I saw demonstrating its importance and place in history of this old Portuguese colonial settlement.

Fr.Jose Edilson de Lima, a priest of St. John Vianney in the diocese of Campos hears confessions before assisting Fr Sergio Costa-Couto offer his first Mass in the Usus Antiquior.

This magnificent statue of Our Lady takes pride of place above the High Altar.

The new Archbishop of Rio de Janeiro, His Excellency Orani João Tempesta O. Cist. specifically requested that a Mass in the Usus Antiquior be offered in the Archdiocese. Thank you, your Grace.

The tabernacle was set far back from the Altar resulting in the Ciborium being reached by the ingenious use of the tabernacle key. This was of sufficient length not only to reach the key hole but to use as a hook to grab the shelf upon which the Ciborium rested. The shelf itself was placed on runners so it could glide out sufficiently for the Celebrant to reach.

After Mass Father continued to explain the meaning of the Mass and engaged in a lively question and answer session. The average age of the congregation seemed to be in the mid/late twenties.

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Our Lady of Perpetual Succour

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Visit to Lanherne Convent

2009-07-04T09:34:00.001+01:00

The main entrance to the Convent.

A view from the organ loft.

To the left of the high altar you can see the grill behind which the community join in the Mass. Recently they were given lessons in singing Gregorian chant and judging by the quality of the singing during Mass they must have been very attentive students.

The recess on the right contains a side altar where the Blessed Host is reserved. This may seem strange to some who feel that Our Lord should be in the tabernacle on the high altar, but, when you consider the devotions of the religious behind the grill you may say yes, He is in the correct tabernacle; always visible to the nuns who have dedicated themselves to Our Lord.

Fr. George celebrating the Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord.

As it was a beautiful day Father decided after Mass that it was appropriate for us to take tea and biscuits outside on the lawn near the Grotto. This rounded of a wonderful visit to this young, vibrant community.

In your charity please pray for the religious of the Franciscan Friars of the Immaculate (FFI), founded in 1970 and erected to an Institute of Religious Life with Pontifical Right in 1998.

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Wigratzbad Ordination 2009

2009-07-03T17:26:00.000+01:00

The newly ordained Fr. William Barker FSSP giving individual blessings. A truly glorious occasion. Deo Gratias.

Fr. Barker offers the Sacrifice of the Mass for the first time.

Fr. Leworthy (left) and Fr. de Mallery (right) with Fr Barker after Mass.

Three wise men? Well certainly the gentleman in the centre is.

The rogues flanking His Excellency Bishop Schneider are none other than Leo Darroch, President of Una Voce International, and Joe Shaw, Chairman of the Latin Mass Society of England and Wales.

Our intrepid little band enjoying the sights of Lindau before flying home.

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