On behalf of the Catholic community of England and Wales Archbishop Vincent Nichols delivered a ‘Loyal Address’ to her majesty the Queen in Buckingham Palace, at an event marking her diamond jubilee.
The Archbishop was at the head of a group of people who have made significant contributions to Britain’s Catholic community in a variety of ways. Bishop George Stack was also in attendance, representing Catholics in Wales, along with representatives of Catholic education, medical professionals and members of the clergy.
Reflecting on this unique occasion, Archbishop Vincent Nichols said,
“It is an honour and a pleasure to be able to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee on behalf of the Catholic Church in England and Wales in this way. I am very proud to be accompanied by a cross section of Catholics in England and Wales, comprised of many who also have reason to celebrate Diamond anniversaries.
“They include Mr Patrick and Mrs Anne Rolt, who are celebrating their Diamond Jubilee of Marriage; and Mr Justin Campbell, the headteacher and sixth form students of Bishop Challoner School which is celebrating its Diamond Jubilee; the Reverend Father John Burns, who is celebrating the Diamond Jubilee of his Priesthood Ordination and Sister Josephine Harvey, who is celebrating the Diamond Jubilee of her Religious Profession.”
The Archbishop continued by saying,
“For all of us it will be a unique and wonderful experience to express the great loyalty and gratitude felt by all Catholics for the Queen as such a remarkable role model for this country and the all of the Commonwealth.
“On behalf of the Catholic community as a whole, we would wish to thank the Queen for her outstanding service throughout her life and especially now as we celebrate her Diamond Jubilee.”
The full text of the Archbishop’s Loyal Address can be read by clicking on the link under related files.
