A Homecoming

“I can’t join the SCP, I’m not catholic enough”.  This was the phrase which echoed around my mind each time I felt pulled to contact my local Chapter.  I came to faith in the low church evangelical tradition and it wasn’t until theological college that I experienced the breadth of the C of E, and particularly the catholic tradition through someone who is now one of my best friends.  So, encouraged by friends and local Chapter members I’d engaged with on social media, I went along to a meeting and I’ve never regretted it.

Why am I telling you this? Because in joining my local Chapter I found a place where there was collegiality and a community where I could freely express the tradition I had found and was learning more about.  In essence, I joined a fully inclusive society where I felt I belonged, something I hadn’t felt for a long time.

This is why to be a part of the 25th anniversary celebrations at Southwark Cathedral was such a joy.  I couldn’t believe I was actually there – a dream come true in many ways.  A homecoming even, and even more fitting in light of the chosen venue for the day.

With so many happy and smiling faces around the cathedral the mood was jovial and joyful.  As we gathered in the Retrochoir the air thronged with excited anticipation of the Mass and the coming celebrations.  I couldn’t wait for it all to begin!  For me personally there was a strong, sometimes electric, presence of the Holy Spirit throughout the day - in the concelebrated Mass, the Renewable of Promises, and during the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.  Wow and awe moments, including happy tears, abounded.

I went home from the day feeling affirmed in my membership of the Society, inspired by in my vocation and life as a priest, and nourished by Jesus’ body and bloody.  I loved every minute of it.

Mother Jo Wood

Lichfield Chapter