On 20 October – World Mission Sunday - Westminster Cathedral hosted the annual International Mass, which was celebrated by the Most Rev. Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster and concelebrated by the Most Rev. Francesco Montenegro, Archbishop of Agrigento, as well as ethnic chaplains of the Diocese.
The Mass began with a procession by the different ethnic communities of the diocese, many of whom were in traditional costume. Leading the procession were Priests from the Italian Church, which is celebrating its 150th Anniversary this year.
In his homily Archbishop Nichols spoke about the importance of different cultural traditions and languages in the life of the Church and how they added, rather than lessened, its catholicity. He also reflected on the recent report by Aid to the Church in Need, which indicates where Christians are victims to violence motivated in part by religious hatred.
Different communities were involved at several points in the Mass with choral music being provided by the Italian community and bidding prayers offered in seven languages.
World Mission Sunday supports the overseas mission of the Catholic Church. The Mass provides an opportunity to provide support, both spiritual and financial, to aid the development of the Church and its mission where turmoil, poverty and opposition are faced.
More photos are available on the Diocese Flickr account.
