In a solemn ceremony marking a new era for Catholics in England and Wales, Archbishop Richard Moth was formally installed as the 12th Archbishop of Westminster on Saturday. The event, held at Westminster Cathedral in central London, drew a congregation of approximately 2,000 faithful, who witnessed the cleric's inauguration amidst calls for reflection and renewal within the Church.
A Ceremony of Installation and Reflection
Shortly after midday, Archbishop Moth knelt at the Great West Door of the cathedral, blessing a line of attendees with holy water before processing down the nave. This ritualistic entrance set the tone for a mass that blended tradition with a forward-looking message. Following the installation, the new leader, who oversees around four million Catholics, delivered a homily that did not shy away from addressing the Church's past shortcomings.
Addressing Failures and Emphasizing Listening
Archbishop Moth spoke candidly about the Church's struggles, stating that its evangelical work is "fragile and adversely impacted by our failures in love, power and self-control." He expressed particular awareness of occasions when the Church has failed, "most especially when the vulnerable have been abused." In response, he emphasized the need for the Church to listen to and learn from those who have suffered grievously, committing to ensuring that communities are safe spaces for all encounters with Christ and one another.
He urged the Catholic faithful not to fear the great questions of our time, listing key issues:
- The need for all peoples to live in peace
- The value and dignity of every person
- The right to life at every stage
- The protection of the vulnerable
- The plight of refugees and the dispossessed
- The protection of our common home
Broader Societal Engagement and Unity
When named to the role in December, Archbishop Moth indicated his intention to speak out on societal issues, including migration, a theme echoed in his installation address. His homily was preceded by one from the new Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, who praised his "deep concern for the dignity of every person." Acting as a representative of Churches Together in England, she highlighted their shared responsibility to deepen relationships and strengthen Christian witness in a divided world, noting that traditions are deepened through unity and charity.
Transition and Future Directions
Archbishop Moth succeeds Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who retired after 16 years in the Westminster role, moving, in his successor's words, to "slightly more restful pastures." The installation mass concluded with applause as the new archbishop left the cathedral around 2:15 pm, following a service of solemn vespers the previous day attended by clergy and representatives from schools, parishes, and Catholic organisations in the diocese.
This installation not only marks a leadership change but also signals a commitment to addressing past wounds while engaging with contemporary challenges, from abuse scandals to refugee crises, as the Church seeks to rebuild trust and foster a safer, more inclusive community.
