Our Lady of Walsingham

Today we rejoice as we celebrate the feast day of Our Lady of Walsingham. Here Mass was celebrated this morning at her altar.

This is a meaningful day that turns our gaze to the Holy House of Walsingham. It reminds us of the Incarnation, of the Holy Family and the beauty of family life, it reminds us above all else of the obedience of Mary to the will of God and invites us to unite our obedience with her's.

Walsingham means so much to so many, today is a day of thanksgiving.

During Mass we offered prayers for the Shrine, for the outgoing and incoming Priest Administrator and for all those who joined the pilgrimage jointly organised by the Shrine and the Society of Mary at Lourdes.

It was a double joy to receive on this feast day an oil painting I was expecting of the Assumption of Our Lady. Below is the picture, (still with its protective film on).

May Our Lady of Walsingham pray for us!

O Mary,

recall the solemn moment when Jesus,

your divine Son, dying on the cross confided us to your maternal care.

You are our Mother;

we desire ever to remain your devout children.

Let us therefore feel the effects of your powerful intercession with Jesus Christ.

Make your name again glorious in Walsingham,

once renowned throughout our land by your visits, favours and many miracles.

Pray, O Holy Mother of God,

for the conversion of England,

restoration of the sick,

consolation for the afflicted,

repentance of sinners,

peace to the departed.

O Blessed Mary, Mother of God,

Our Lady of Walsingham intercede for us. Amen.