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NewsArchbishop’s New Evangelisation Initiative For the Archdiocese of Cardiff Under the Patronage of St David The Most Rev George Stack, Archbishop of Cardiff, has begun a new evangelisation initiative to support the sharing of the Catholic Faith in Cardiff and to the whole of the Archdiocese. The ‘Come and See’ project is located at the Archdiocese’s new city-centre venue, the Cornerstone at St David’s, and aims to provide events and a warm welcome to those interested in finding out more about Catholicism. Archbishop Stack said: “It’s hoped that the Cornerstone at St David’s will offer a support and focal point for those who’d like to find out more about the life and teaching of Jesus Christ and the Catholic Faith. If you’re searching in life, or are just interested to find out more about what Catholics believe, the door is open. Do ‘come and see’. A warm welcome will be offered to every visitor even if you just want a quiet space and a cup of tea." The newly-refurbished venue on Charles Street , just off Cardiff ’s main shopping artery, is a place of welcome, with a team of volunteers on hand to greet visitors and serve refreshments. Starting on 6 June, six lunchtime talks by different speakers, will offer windows into the Catholic Faith. Each speaker will also give a personal account of how their faith has shaped their life. The first speaker is Gareth Leyshon , a Catholic priest with a PhD in Astrophysics, who will talk about Faith and Science. Other lunchtime talk topics include: God’s Guidance (13 June), Losing a Child (20 June), Faith and Love (27 June) and Social Justice (4 July). Archbishop Stack added: “The 'Come and See' project is under the patronage of St David, the Patron Saint of Wales, who was a sixth century renowned teacher and preacher. St David founded monastic settlements and churches, and his example inspired many others to set out to evangelise Wales . It is therefore fitting that in our time, we should prayerfully commend our efforts to this great saint, seeking to imitate his example in service of all those that we encounter, especially being attentive to those most in need.” The initial group of people that the Cornerstone at St David’s volunteers hope to serve are the thousands of city workers who work in commercial offices and shops in the local area, together with shoppers and sightseers at leisure in the Welsh capital. The forthcoming talks will run 1.00 – 1.30 p.m. For more information please see: http://www.cardiffcatholic.com
If you're interested in volunteering at the Cornerstone at St David's please see: http://www.rcadc.co.uk/evangelisation Welsh Assembly Reception Tuesday, 7th May 2013 The Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales held a reception for Assembly Members at the Senedd on Tuesday 7th May. The reception was sponsored by David Melding AM, the Deputy Presiding Officer of the National Assembly for Wales. Archbishop George Stack gave a speech which is availble in PDF format here: Archbishop's Assembly Talk Here are some photos from the event:
Archbishop George Stack during his speech
Rosemary Butler, Presiding Officer, Welsh Assembly
Oscar Asghar, Assembly Member for South East Wales
Homily that was preached by the Most Revd George Stack
Homily marking the celebration of completion of works at St. Mary's Church, MONMOUTH, ST MICHAEL’S, LLANARTH To download this homily as a pdf please click here
Maundy Thursday 2013
To download this as a pdf please click here
Swansea University 22 April, 2013
The Archbishop and Canon Robert were thanked for coming to Swansea University. A great evening enjoyed by all. Past and future events may be downloaded here
Audience with Pope Francis
The Election of the New Bishop of Rome
On hearing the news of the election of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio as the new Bishop of Rome, the Most Revd George Stack, Archbishop of Cardiff , issued the following statement: Seeing the crowds in St Peter’s Square on Wednesday evening who could fail to be struck by the global nature of the Church and its universal mission.” Homily that was preached by the Most Revd George Stack Homily that was preached by the Most Revd George Stack, Archbishop of Cardiff, at a Mass in Thanksgiving for the Ministry of Pope Benedict XVI at St. David’s Cathedral. To download this homily as a pdf please click here
The Resignation of Pope Benedict XVI Press Statement On hearing the news of the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, the Most Revd George Stack, Archbishop of Cardiff, issued the following statement:
“I share the surprise of people all over the world at the news of the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI from the Petrine Office. I am sure that many will recognise it to be a decision of great courage and humility, made with characteristic clarity of mind and action. I ask people of faith both within the Catholic Church and outside it to keep Pope Benedict in their prayers. Although physical frailty has caused him to make this decision, his spiritual strength continues to witness to his faith and in the Lord Jesus whom he has served so faithfully throughout his life. He will continue to serve the Church through the sacrifice of his prayers.” 11 February 2013
Preparing for Lent Please visit the updated Pastoral Letters page for a letter from Archbishop Stack titled Preparing for Lent
Belmont monks sing Vespers at Cardiff Cathedral
On Sunday, 20th January 2013, at the invitation of the Archbishop of Cardiff, the Most Reverend George Stack, the Belmont Community sang Vespers at St David's Cathedral, Cardiff to mark the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity . Abbot Paul preached on the "Origins of the Welsh Church in Celtic times". Although the congregation was small due to the adverse weather conditions the celebration went very well everyone present felt it was a fitting start to the week of Prayer for Christian Unity .
To read the homily given by Abbot Paul Stonham please follow the link to the Christian Unity web page.
The final opportunity to influence the outcome of the Welsh Government’s Bill which presumes consent for the removal of human organs after death comes this month when the Assembly members will debate this controversial proposal. The latest version of the legislation speaks of “deemed consent” given by each person to have their organs removed after death if they have not signified their opting out of this system. This is draconian legislation, not least because of the implications of the word “deemed”. The church leaders of Wales and England have submitted a detailed response to the rushed consultation. The Muslim community has been articulate in its opposition to these proposals. Many authoritative and detailed responses that have been made opposing this legislation. “Consultation responses to the Bill published in October revealed a negative response to the proposals, however this was blamed on an orchestrated campaign by organisations opposed to the move”. (walesonline.co.uk 4th December 2012) The democratic process does not, seemingly, admit of people organising themselves on important issues. The Catholic Bishops of Wales have recently sent a joint letter to each Assembly member pointing out the distinction between the free gift which is organ donation and the legal obligation which removes freedom when organs are taken without consent of the individual. All this in the light of the pro-life stance of the Catholic Church which regards the gift of organ donation as one of the highest goods one person can make to another. A copy of the letter of the Catholic Bishops is printed in this month’s edition of “Catholic People”. Equally important is a draft of a letter which would inform individuals who wish to write to their own Assembly member outlining opposition to this measure. It is important that the same letter is not just reprinted and sent by many people. This is the “campaign” which is objected to. Far more effective is to take the information contained in either letter and elaborate on it in personal responses. Archbishop George Stack Year of Faith for Young People in the Archdiocese of Cardiff St. David’s Sixth Form College in Cardiff will be hosting a weekend celebration of the Year of Faith for young people in the Diocese of Cardiff over the weekend of 26/27/28 April 2013. It will be led by members of Youth 2000 who are well known for organizing major retreats and other events for large numbers of young people whether at Walsingham or participating in the INVOCATION Festival at Oscott each summer. Over 100 young people will be resident at the “camp” at St. David’s. There will be time for prayer, adoration, catechesis and socializing. Parishes will be invited to sponsor one or two young people. The cost will be no more than £100 per person. This promises to be a unique event in the lives of the youngsters themselves and in the life of the Diocese. Further details will be available next month. In the meantime, it would be wise to encourage those who are interested to book this date in their diaries. Archbishop Welcomes Welsh/Bi-lingual Versions of Year of Faith Logo
The Vatican’s Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelisation has granted permission for the use of Welsh/Bi-lingual versions of the official logo for the Year of Faith. The Most Revd George Stack, Archbishop of Cardiff, said: “I welcome the use of the Welsh/Bi-lingual version of the official logo for the Year of Faith. It is a sign that our faith is universal, but at the same time rooted in our homelands.” Pope Benedict XVI has set aside a special year for Catholics throughout the world to rediscover, and share with others, the precious gift of faith entrusted to the Church and the personal gift of faith that we have each received from and in God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Pope Benedict opened the Year of Faith on 11 October 2012 because that date is the anniversary of two important events in the life of the CatholicChurch: the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council (11 October 1962 – 8, December 1965) and the 20th anniversary of the publication of the Catechism of the Catholic Church by Blessed John Paul II. The Year of Faith will close on 24 November 2013, the Solemn Feast of Christ the King throughout the world. + Please pray for the repose of the soul of Archbishop Faustino Sainz Munoz Apostolic Nuncio to Great Britian (2004 – 2010) Who died on 31 October 2012 His funeral will take place in Madrid On Friday 2 November May he rest in peace.
Catholic Roots – A series of talks by Fr. Gareth Leyshon PhD Why we believe what we believe: 10 talks on the Catholic Faith by Fr. Gareth Leyshon PhD. Held at St John Lloyd parish over the coming months, for more information please click the following link: Catholic Roots
Tragic Events in Cardiff Friday 19th October 2012
The Most Rev George Stack, the Archbishop of Cardiff, is shocked and saddened by the tragic events which took place in the City of Cardiff late on Friday afternoon. Year of Faith
The Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI announced that the Catholic Church will celebrate a Year of Faith from 11 October 2012 - 24 November 2013. For more information please visit the new Year of Faith page. Episcopal Ordination of Rt. Revd. Peter Brignall Read the homily which was preached by Archbishop Stack at the Episcopal Ordination of Rt. Revd. Peter Brignall 3rd Bishop of Wrexham on 12th September at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Sorrows. Homily Parenting Support Project
New website now live:- www.rcadc.co.uk/parenting Now into our 4th year! We offer the support of the Church to parents to fulfil their vocation to parenthood in today’s world. For more information on what Parenting support does and how it can help please download Parenting Support Project
International Eucharistic Congress 29 pilgrims from Wales - including Archbishop George, six priests, four religious sisters and seven University students - travelled to Dublin to take part in the June 2012 International Eucharistic Congress. Please view our photos of the pilgrimage! Cornerstone at St. Davids
The Archdiocese of Cardiff finalised the purchase of the Ebeneser Chapel with the signing of contracts on Wednesday 16th May 2012. To mark this significant event the Reverend Alun Tudur, Minister of the Ebeneser Community, handed the keys of the Chapel to Archbishop George Stack and Canon Peter Collins, Dean of the Metropolitan Cathedral of St.David. The Chapel complex is located directly opposite the Cathedral on Charles Street in Cardiff, at the very heart of the City Centre. Archbishop Stack has renamed the complex as ‘The Cornerstone at St.David’s’. ‘The Cornerstone’ will provide a raft of facilities to enhance the ministry of the Cathedral and creates a platform for diocesan outreach to wider society. Archbishop Stack has already shared elements of his vision for the project and this has elicited a great deal of enthusiastic support. There is still much work to be done in order to develop the site. An architectural plan is already being developed. It is no exaggeration to say that ‘The Cornerstone’ represents a concrete commitment to the future development of the faith in the life of our nation. Receiving the Royal Maundy On Maundy Thursday, 5th April last, I was one of 172 people who received the Royal Maundy Money from Her Majesty the Queen in York Minster. In her Diamond Jubilee year she wished this to be an ecumenical gathering. I had been nominated by the Archbishop of Cardiff, Most Rev George Stack, on behalf of the Knights of St Columba and the Catholics of Wales. The occasion was a truly marvelous one. My wife accompanied me as my Companion and was seated behind me in the Cathedral. The day started with my wife and I going to the Minster where Jane waited in the queue for entrance. I made my way to the Assembly Rooms to report. My credentials were vetted by the Police and I was taken by one of the Stewards to my place No 133 were my name badge awaited me. "Peter Sims-Coomber, Archdiocese of Cardiff'. We were greeted by the Dean of York Minster, Dr Keith Jones and the Bishop of Manchester, Bishop Nigel McCullough, the Lord High AImoner. They both hoped that we would enjoy ourselves to the full and remember for the rest of our lives the wonderful occasion about to take place. The Wandsman then called for the persons who would be traveling up to the Minster by coach. We were then taken in batches of about 30 persons and walked up to the Minster running the gauntlet of the crowds either sides of the barriers. I walked up with a lady from Liverpool, she was getting the Maundy Money because she had been president of the Anglican Mothers Union in Liverpool. I wore my Papal Medal for all to see, nobody queried it. On our arrival at the Minster we made our way to our allotted seats getting a bit lost in the process. When we were all settled the Dean gave us a talk and outlined points for the service. The organ was playing various voluntaries while we waited for Her Majesty and the rest of the Royal Party to arrive. On the stroke of eleven the Great West Doors were opened and the Royal Party arrived and processed down the center nave of the Cathedral while we sung "Praise to the Holiest in the Height". The service had started, various prayers, versicle and a Psalm were said and we then stood for the Hymn "When I survey the wondrous Cross". This was followed by the First Lesson about the Passover festival. Her Majesty then started the distribution of Maundy Gifts on the South Side of the Minster during which the choir sung various pieces. The Second Lesson followed which was about separating the sheep from the goats. The distribution of Maundy Gifts for the North side then started and I received mine while the Choir was singing "Zadok the Priest". The responses and prayers were said by the Ecumenical visitors including our own Rt. Rev. Terence Drainey, Bishop of Middlesbrough. This was followed by the Hymn "My song is love unknown", followed by the Lord’s Prayer. The National Anthem was then sung by everybody and the Blessing was given by the Archbishop of York, Most Rev. Dr. John Sentamu. The Processions then started to leave the Cathedral. After a little time we were allowed to leave and go back to the Assembly Rooms for a lunch with the Dean and Chapter of York Minster. There were so many people in the street that it was a job to get there but we managed it and had a most enjoyable lunch. I saw a few people after the lunch with whom I had been seated and exchanged pleasantries with them before we departed for our hotel to change. As it was our first time in York we went on the York City Sightseeing Bus for a trip around the City. The day was rounded off by us going to the Mass of the Last Supper in the local Catholic Church in the evening. I would like to thank everybody for the most wonderful day in my life. I will always remember it. Peter Sims-Coomber
Our Lady & St.Illtyd, Llantwit Major and St.Cadoc, Cowbridge Confirmation
Dedication of the Church at Tonypandy
On the Feast of the Annunciation of the Lord, 26th March, Archbishop George Stack visited the Rhondda Parish to dedicate a New Altar at Tonypandy. It has been a difficult few years in the area with the sad closure of two churches at Ferndale and Treorchy. During the past year resources have been concentrated at Tonypandy and the church there completely renovated. It even has a new entrance, now onto the street instead of in the school yard as was the case previously. The building was stripped right down and as well as dealing with issues of damp and rot a new roof was put on the building. Items from the various churches here were preserved and have been used in the renewal including the important statue of Our Lady of Penrhys from Ferndale. Pride of place goes to a new stone altar. By happy coincidence the stone font moved from Treorchy when stripped down was found to be made of the same stone.
Bishop Hedley Blessing
On January 31st, Archbishop George Stack rededicated the tomb of one of his predecessors, Bishop John Cuthbert Hedley who is buried in Cathays cemetery. Dr. Hedley, who was born in 1837, became the Bishop of Newport and Menevia in 1881.It was he who worked for the creation of the Archdiocese of Cardiff which was established in 1916. Bishop Hedley died in the previous year and was buried according to his own wish "surrounded by my people. He had served the people well, not least in the field of Catholic education. He was passionate about the education of the poor and championed the causes of social and educational reform in Wales. Bishop Hedley School in Merthyr Tydfil is a tribute to his commitment to the welfare of people in every need. His tomb in Cathays is a magnificent structure, paid for by public subscription.It covers nine plots and is one of the grandest in the cemetery. Unfortunately, in recent years it began to show signs of deterioration and needed restoraration of the stonework,footings and carved lettering.The Archdiocese of Cardiff authorised the work and placed it in the expert hands of Mossfords, memorial masons since 1821.The Friends of Cathays Cemetery played a leading part in preparing for this important work of restoring part of the heritage of the Diocese and city of Cardiff. Photos can be viewed in the gallery section. Bishop Hedley Images Marriage
A Letter on Marriage from the President and Vice- President of the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales. Read the full letter- Letter on Marriage.
Lent 2012
The Pope's Lent message this year can be read here. Lent Message 2012 Archbishop George Stack Ash Wednesday Pastoral Letter - Ash Wednesday & Lent 2012 Pastoral Letter Archbishop George Stack - Lenten Station Masses A Prayer for Lent - Lent Prayer
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Retirement of Archdiocesan Director of Religious Education
Mrs. Anne Manghan, Director of Religious Education for the Archdiocese of Cardiff, has signified her intention of retiring from her post on 31 August 2012. She was appointed Director in April 2004 having previously served as Headteacher of St. Joseph's Catholic Junior School, Port Talbot, for eight years.
Proposals for Legislation on Organ and Tissue Donation: A Welsh Government White Paper
A Joint Response on behalf of The Roman Catholic Church in Wales, The Church in Wales and the Wales Orthodox Mission The leaders of The Roman Catholic Church in Wales, The Church in Wales and the Wales Orthodox Mission today made a joint response to the Welsh Government on its proposals for Legislation on Organ and Tissue Donation. The response is based on social, moral and ethical principles and is intended to contribute these important elements to the current debate.
The Churches are profoundly committed to the dignity of the human person in life and in death. The principles outlined in this document seek to preserve the dignity and autonomy of every person whilst creating a proper framework in which the gift of human organs after death is precisely that – an act of solidarity, generosity and love. They urge the Welsh Government “to revisit the process and establish a cross party committee that could consider all the evidence submitted to the previous enquiries of the last three years” Full Joint response
Appointment of Vicar General & Diocesan Chancellor
The Diocesan website is undergoing a review and redevelopment. Before undertaking this major and significant work we would like to find out what people expect from the site, what is helpful and not helpful. Not everything is possible at once but please help us by answering the questions.
Celebrating Catholic Education at St Davids Hall 2011  On Thursday November 3rd 2011, the Archdiocese of Cardiff brought ‘The Year of Catholic Education’ to a close with a Festival of Catholic Education Service at St David’s Hall Cardiff. Over 600 children and young people from across the Archdiocese, along with Archbishop George Stack and a packed hall of clergy, parents, staff and governors, took part in a service of hymns, prayers and readings to mark the contribution Catholic schools make to the formation of young people and to welcome the Archbishop to the Archdiocese... More. Images from the event are in the image gallery.Feast of SS Peter and Paul – 29th June 2011
Today Archbishop George received the Pallium from Pope Benedict XVI during a Mass celebrated in the Basilica of St Peter in Rome. Over forty Metropolitan Archbishops from all over the world who were appointed during the last year were present at the ceremony. The Pallium is a band of white material worn over an Archbishop’s chasuble as the sign of office of a Metropolitan Archbishop. A Metropolitan Archbishop is appointed to “preside” over an ecclesiastical province including his own archdiocese. A province consists of a number of dioceses, designated “suffragan dioceses” which, in a limited way, the metropolitan oversees.
The province of Wales and Herefordshire consists of the Archdiocese of Cardiff and the “suffragan dioceses” of Menevia and Wrexham.
Installation of Archbishop Stack
Images from the Installtion of Archbishop Stack who was installed as the seventh Archbishop of Cardiff on Monday 20th June at St David’s Metropolitan Cathedral, Cardiff, at 12 Noon.
Many thanks to Michael Woodward of Shot With Spirit www.shotwithspirit.com. A copy of the Homily from the Installation can be download here Installation Homily |
18th April 2012 was a day of great celebration for our parish, Our Lady & St.Illtyd, Llantwit Major and St.Cadoc, Cowbridge. With our new parish priest, Fr.Edmund, six young people and two adults prepared to be confirmed by Archbishop George, on his first official visit to the parish. Three of the altar servers were being confirmed, but fortunately we still had enough on the sanctuary, as the photo shows. The children were excited about their part in the Mass, they had prepared a welcome speech and presented the Archbishop with flowers, and later on they sang “Spirit of the living God”. In the photo, they are posing with the Archbishop and their catechist Elizabeth. Everyone found the Mass and homily inspiring and uplifting, and the singing nearly lifted the roof! The Parish Centre was packed for the Reception, and parishioners had provided a delicious and lavish spread, but the highlight was the cake, as seen in the photo. So successful was this conclusion to a very special celebration that people stayed until late, enjoying not only the food but the fellowship. More confirmation images can be found in the 
A full church celebrated the re-opening of the building and the dedication of the altar. The archbishop preached about the significance of the altar as the heart of the church which all gather around for the celebration of the Mass. Our prayer is that the people from the various parts of the Rhondda will gather around this new altar and use their gifts and talents together for the growth of the church.
Following the recent consultation on the appointment of Vicar General, Canon Joseph Boardman has agreed to assume this important responsibility. I envisage the appointment will take effect sometime after Easter, following a period of transition with Mgr. Bob Reardon to whom I express my deep gratitude for his sterling work on my behalf and on behalf of the Diocese.
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