Servers' Training Day

I am just back from English Martyrs Church in York where was held a training day for servers of Mass in the Extraordinary Form. The day was arranged by Paul Waddington on behalf of the Society of St Tarcisius. We were warmly welcomed by Fr Stephen Maugham from the parish and the training was divided into 3 classes. That for servers wishing to learn more about Missa Cantata was led by Neil Walker (DR Leeds diocese) & David O'Neill (joint DR Hexham & Newcastle diocese). The more advanced Low Mass class was led by Paul Waddington (LMS Treasurer) whilst the beginners class was led by Steve Crookall. . There were 4 students in the Missa Cantata class & they were the servers at the Missa Cantata celebrated by Fr Maugham. Both Neil & David were also on the sanctuary to give guidance during the Mass. Considering that this was the first attempt the outcome was quite astounding. The music for the Mass was provided by The Rudgate Singers of York. There is a further opportunity to sample this most wonderful form of the Roman Rite when Missa Cantata is celebrated in York Minster on Saturday 26th March 2011 at 1.30pm. This Mass will be followed by a procession in honour of St Margaret Clitheroe who was martyred in York. The procession will take in the house where she lived as well as her place of martyrdom. The day will end with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at the Bar Convent in York where a relic of St Margaret is venerated.