Pilgrims from world-wide church gather at Walsingham
September 17, 2018
It was a joy to be part of the Eucharistic Congress
September 19, 2018
Bishop Alan Hopes celebrated Mass in the Chapel at Oxburgh Hall on Saturday September 1 for parishioners from Norwich.
The annual event has gone back to the 1970s, organised by the Norwich Branch of the Walsingham Association but open to all. The Chapel organ was played by Justin Daniel, the Director of Diocesan Music which was a wonderful addition to the Mass this year.
The Mass was attended by Sir Henry and Lady Mary Bedingfeld who own and maintain the Chapel. Oxburgh Hall and estate was in the Bedingfeld family from 1482 to 1952 when it was given to The National Trust to ensure its future, though the family continue to reside there.
All generations have remained true to the Catholic faith, starting with Sir Henry who refused to sign the Act of Uniformity in 1559.
Howard Rochford said: “We can all be encouraged in standing up for our faith today by reading about the Bedingfeld family and their stand, not knowing the consequences for their lives and fortune.
“It is very important that the Chapel continues to be used and other parishes are encouraged to celebrate an annual Mass there and experience the blessings and spiritual benefits that such a pilgrimage will bring to the participants.
“The Norwich group stayed for the day, having picnics in the grounds or lunch in the NT cafe, visiting the Hall or walking round the estate. It was a great and enjoyable day.”
Bishop Brian Dunne of Nova Scotia and a visiting priest from the Diocese of Newfoundland also joined the group.
