This was an occasion to thank God for the pastoral visit of Pope Benedict to our Diocese, and the Beatification of Cardinal John Henry Newman, and also acknowledge the contribution that the priests, people and schools of Coventry made to this historic event. Archbishop Bernard presided from the Chair used by Pope Benedict, and made by the staff and pupils of Cardinal Newman School. He also used the chalice, which is Pope Benedict’s gift to our diocese, for the first time during Mass.

During his homily the Archbishop referred to the four wonderful days of the Holy Father’s visit to the UK and in particular the unforgettable and grace filled experience of his presence in our diocese. He thanked all the many people who worked together so hard and effectively not only to make the Holy Father’s visit possible but also to make it the great success that it has proved to be. He thanked the pilgrim leaders, the parish co-ordinators and the many volunteers who generously gave their time as stewards and marshalls, in the choir and as medical volunteers. Within Coventry he thanked Father Timothy Menezes and Canon Tom Farrell.

The Mass was an opportunity to come together and thank our Lord for all that we received, and ask guidance on how we make this experience bear “fruit that will last”. As well as the many priests from Coventry Bishop Kenney was present. Father Des Devenney, PP for Holy Family, also expressed his thanks to the Archbishop and said what an honour it was to have the chair used by the Pope in his Parish. ■