On 12 October, the feast of St Wilfrid, Leeds Trinity University celebrated their 50th anniversary with Mass at Westminster Cathedral celebrated by Bishop John Wilson, previously a priest of the Diocese of Leeds.
In his homily Bishop John reflected on the Catholic commitment to education: ‘Leeds Trinity University gives vibrant contemporary expression to the noble Catholic tradition of seeking to enable, what the Second Vatican Council called, “an inalienable right to an education”. (Gravissimum Educationis 1) We give thanks that Leeds Trinity continues to unlock potential, to create possibilities, and to inspire futures.’
In this way, Leeds Trinity is ‘an evangelising community’ as described by Pope Francis in Evangelii Gaudium. This form of community is ‘filled with joy’, ‘joy that is infectious and attractive, and a persuasive witness to hope’. Bishop John concluded: ‘With a renewed ecclesial spirit and Catholic commitment, may Leeds Trinity University continue to move forward as an evangelising community in the successful service of education.’
The full text of Bishop John's homily is available to read here.