Old Cathedral a “magnificent” home for Marian Procession
Parishioners across the Archdiocese and beyond are invited to the annual Marian Procession this Sunday, said Fr Tony Percy.
“Our annual pilgrimage, which is this year for the first time at the Old Cathedral in Goulburn on Sunday 22 October, begins at 10.30am with the sacrament of penance and reconciliation,” he said.
“If you haven’t been for a while, this is a great opportunity to go and confess your sins, start again and receive the mercy of Christ.”
At midday, Archbishop Christopher Prowse will celebrate mass for a large crowd in the beautiful Old Cathedral.
“There will be a barbecue after, or bring your own lunch if you prefer,” Fr Tony said.
“This will be followed by a rosary at 2pm, where we can all gather to pray together for world peace at this time of tremendous conflict and disunity round the world.”
Fr Tony said it was the first time the Marian Procession was held in Goulburn.“It is a magnificent building – it’s the only greenstone church in the world, would you believe?” he said.
“Its construction began in 1872, and from the year 1982 up until last year we have had a 40-year restoration underway. We have finally been able to complete it – it’s a magnificent achievement – and when you come you will see a number of things which will be very engaging for you.”
Fr Percy said the restored 19th century stations of the cross would be of particular interest, along with a new piece called the Way of the Family.
“We know the marriage and family is under great stress, and I am sure you will be very interested to see beautiful statue of Mary Protector of Families with ten beautiful icons surrounding her,” he said.
“The rock on which the cathedral was built, quarried just outside the town, is 440 million years old,” he said.
Fr Tony said the Old Cathedral occupied a unique place in history.
“It is going to be a marvellous event. Please join us.”