Could God Be Calling You to the Priesthood?

We are inviting men who are considering whether God may be calling them to the priesthood to join us for a Day of Discernment at St Peter’s Cathedral, Lancaster, on Saturday 31 October 2026.

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The day is open to single men aged 16 and over who would like to explore the possibility of a vocation to the priesthood. There is no expectation or commitment involved; it is simply an opportunity to take some time away from everyday life to pray, reflect and discover more about what discerning a priestly vocation involves.

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The day will include Mass, Eucharistic Adoration and reflections, as well as the opportunity to meet Bishop Paul Swarbrick and share lunch with him. You will also be able to learn more about the process of discernment, discover how we can support you, and meet others from across our Diocese who are also exploring whether God may be calling them to priesthood.

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If you have found yourself wondering, even occasionally, whether priesthood might be for you, this day offers an opportunity to explore that question in a relaxed and prayerful setting. You do not need to have made any decisions before attending. Discernment begins simply by being willing to ask the question and to listen.

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Our Day of Discernment takes place from 10.00am to 3.30pm on Saturday 31 October at St Peter’s Cathedral, Balmoral Road, Lancaster LA1 3BT. Please enter through Cathedral House on Balmoral Road.

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There is no charge for the day and lunch will be provided.

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To book your place, please contact Heather Watts by email at heather.watts@lrcd.org.uk ortelephone 01524 841190.

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CouldGod be calling you? Come and spend a day with us and begin to find out.

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Cathedral Spire Appeal

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My dear people,

For generations, our Cathedral has stood as a symbol of faith, hope and community. Rising above Lancaster’s skyline, the cathedral spire has stood witness to the place where the martyrs received their crown, marked important moments for both the City and the Diocese and served as a treasured landmark for the faithful in the Diocese, the cathedral parish and the City of Lancaster.

Today, this historic structure is in urgent need of repair. While Victorians built things to last, years of exposure to wind, rain, and changing weather have taken their toll, and essential restoration work is now required to preserve the spire for future generations. Without these repairs, the spire is in genuine risk of collapse.

I am asking for your help. The cathedral parish has already secured £200,000 of the projected £800,000 we require. The Friends of the Cathedral have begun an ambitious fundraising campaign encompassing the parish, the City of Lancaster and now the Diocese.   

On this Feast of the Dedication of the Cathedral, I would like to ask you to play a part in saving the Cathedral for generations to come. Every donation, no matter the size, will contribute directly to safeguarding this magnificent heritage asset and ensuring it continues to inspire generations to come.

St Peter’s Church, which became the Cathedral, was built by subscription. Parishioners and others gave both large and small amounts. By 1859, a generation after the Catholic Emancipation Act removed the legal restrictions long been imposed, those donations meant Lancaster had a church the city and the faithful were proud to call their own.  

By supporting our appeal, each of you is not only helping to repair stone and structure. You are preserving a place of worship, the building at the head of the Diocese, a piece of our shared Catholic history in the North-West and a beacon of the City of Lancaster.

The appeal has a website with more details about the works required and how to donate. Please take a look: www.saveourspire.com

Together, we can ensure that our cathedral spire continues to stand proudly for many years ahead.

Please give generously and be part of preserving our Diocesan legacy.

Thank you for yoursupport.

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✠ Rt Rev Paul Swarbrick
Bishop of Lancaster

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Canon Philip Connor Installed as a Member of the Cathedral Chapter

There was a joyful gathering at our Cathedral on Thursday 24th September, the Feast of Our Lady of Walsingham, as Fr Philip Connor was installed as a Canon of the Cathedral Chapter.

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Fr Philip, Parish Priest of Christ the Good Shepherd, Workington, and Episcopal Vicar for the Clergy, was joined by family, friends, brother priests and members of the Cathedral community for this special moment in his ministry.

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Canon Hugh Pollock began the ceremony by reading a letter from Bishop Paul Swarbrick inviting Fr Philip to join the Cathedral Chapter. The installation was then conducted by the Provost of the Cathedral Chapter, Canon Luiz Ruscillo, as Fr Philip formally took his place among the Canons.

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The ceremony was followed by Midday Prayer and the celebration of Mass, with Canon Bob Dewhurst as principal celebrant. Among the Canons present on the sanctuary were Canon Peter Hart, Canon Michael Doherty, Canon Paul Embery and Canon Chris Loughran, together with other priests of the Diocese.

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The Cathedral Chapter is made up of priests appointed as Canons to support the life and mission of the Diocese. They have a particular responsibility for the prayer and worship of the Cathedral and also bring their pastoral experience and wisdom in support of the Bishop and the wider diocesan family.

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It was especially fitting that Canon Philip’s installation should take place on the Feast of Our Lady of Walsingham, a day which holds a special place in the life of the Church in England and reminds us of Mary’s faithful response to God’s call.

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We give thanks for Canon Philip’s ministry and pray for him as he begins this new responsibility, that Our Lady of Walsingham may continue to guide and accompany him in his service of Christ and the people of the Diocese of Lancaster.

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With every blessing,

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✠ Rt Rev Paul Swarbrick
Bishop of Lancaster

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