Despite persistent heavy rain prior to the High Mass at 2.30pm, pilgrims arrived in good number. Several estimates suggested an increase in those assisting at Mass - my own headcount (never that easy to do) concluded 235, a similar headcount in 2014 estimated 224.
Priest celebrant, Father Richard Bailey of Manchester Oratory preached the homily, you can read it here. Incidentally, Father Bailey will be back in Holywell at the end of July for the Society's annual Latin Course, you can read more about that and book here.
With Father Bailey were Father Edmund Montgomery (deacon) and Father Simon Henry (sub deacon). Mr Michael Haynes was M.C. and numerous servers were in attendance. Three priests sat in choir.
Mass was a Votive Mass of a Virgin Martyr with commemoration of the VI Sunday after Pentecost. This votive Mass honours our local and loved St Winefride, a very brief account of whom can be read here.
The musical arrangement was Victoria's Missa Simile est Regnum with chant for the proper. Many complimented the quality of the music and my thanks go to Mr. Christian Spence and the cantors for their much appreciated efforts.
The rain gave way to fragile sunshine (Deo grátias!) for the post Mass Rosary procession led by Canon Lordan (a regular celebrant of the Extraordinary Form in this diocese) and at the shrine there was an opportunity to venerate the relic of St Winefride.
Other thanks go to Mr. Mike Barnsdall for his photography, I will post a selection of the photo's in due course. Finally, Mr David Lloyd and his wife Betty deserve praise for their unwavering support.
This was a very successful pilgrimage but they don't just happen by themselves, the Latin Mass Society works hard throughout England and Wales to ensure that such beautiful liturgical events take place. Support us by joining us or by making a donation here.