THE
P RTAL
May 2011
Page 10
Reflections on an
Ordinariate meeting
The Very Revd Hugh Allan, a Norbertine Canon from Chelmsford
reflects on the Ordinariate meeting in his church
“Where were you
when Pope Benedict was elected?” It is one of those moments that stick
in the mind, like where you were when Kennedy was shot (I wasn’t born for that one....) or when Princess
Diana died. On the day of the Pope’s election I remember exactly what I was doing - clearing out a blocked
drain! The joys of being a parish priest! After spending a few hours doing this, my duty done, I needed a cup
of tea. Going into the kitchen to put the kettle on, I turned on the T.V. thinking, “I wonder if we have a new
Pope.” Lo and behold there was the white smoke. The drain went unfinished and the tea quickly turned into
something a little stronger. It was a wonderful moment - Pope Benedict coming out on to the balcony, asking
for prayers for this humble worker in the Lord’s vineyard. Amazing.
Anglicanorum
Coetibus
In the time he has
been Pope he has
done so much for the
Church. His profound
love for the Church
fills us all with joy and
hope. Perhaps one of
his most prophetic
gestures has been
Anglicanorum
Coetibus.
seriously.
Their
loving
concern for those
who are not yet ready
to make this move
has also been deeply
impressive. Despite
the
difficulties
involved, I have not
come across one
slightest expression
of bitterness or anger.
This is so important.
My Novice Master
It has been a
always taught me
privilege this Lent to
welcome and help guide a group of people seeking to that you can tell when the Holy Spirit is at work and
join the Church. It all began when their Vicar came when the Devil is pushing his oar in. When the devil
to see me to talk a little about his plans and thoughts. acts, there is always bitterness, anger, hatred, turmoil,
I remember at the time being impressed by his quiet confusion; when the Holy Spirit acts, there is always
love, patience, kindness, compassion. Well, that being
courage in stepping out into the unknown.
the case, I can definitely tell you that the Holy Spirit
Then of course all the national events began to has been working overtime with the people here.
happen; the reception of the three Bishops, their wives
Be patient
and the three good sisters from Walsingham.
I can see how it has been a difficult time. As I said
Along came Ash Wednesday and the Ordinariate
group came to Mass at Our Lady Immaculate for the to someone recently, the emotions surrounding all this
first time. We welcomed them with open arms and are complex. It is a little like mourning the loss of a
again it was so impressive to see the humble way they loved one whilst at the same time getting engaged to
a new girl! So, my small piece of advice would be - go
approached this life-changing decision.
easy on yourselves. Take time and be patient with it all.
The calibre of the people
When God made time, He made plenty of it.
What stands out for me above all is the calibre of
It has been a real joy.
the people involved: the families, the couples, the
Thank God for Pope Benedict
individuals - so many good, prayerful and courageous
and thank God
people. It was a pleasure to speak with people who
for the gift of the Ordinariate.
are really engaged with their Faith, ready to take it