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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