VISIT OF POPE BENEDICT TO BRITAIN - 16th-19th September 2010

 

We now have had some information from the diocese on the Pope’s forthcoming visit. It will be possible for some parishioners to attend either the Vigil at Hyde Park on Saturday 18th, or the Beatification Mass of John Henry Newman at Cofton Park, Birmingham on Sunday 19th.

 

The only way of getting tickets for these two events is through the parish, and they are extremely limited. The diocese has been allocated 980 tickets for each of the events, and they are being shared across the parishes of the diocese. It’s a case of “first come……”

 

1. VIGIL at HYDE PARK

 

If you wish to attend the VIGIL on 18th September, these are the arrangements:

The vigil begins in the afternoon, and will end by 9pm.  Pilgrims are to make their own arrangements for travel, but they will be supplied with an underground ticket. (Getting a train home will be difficult given the lateness of the hour). Each person is asked to make a contribution of £10.

 

UPDATE : There are still eight places left for this event, and we need a person to carry our parish banner in a 3000 strong procession. Over 18s only, because you will not stay with the others in your group during this procession. The banner is very light, mounted on a four foot pole, and is being specially made for the occasion. Please see Fr Tim - you need to fill in a form, and present photo ID.

 

2. BEATIFICATION MASS AT BIRMINGHAM

 

For this event the only way to get in to it is to go on a Diocesan Coach. No other form of travel is allowed. Pilgrims pay £25, and we have been allocated a coach with St Peter’s and Peverell. All pilgrims will arrive at Cofton Park, and be in their places by 8.30am, so obviously the coach will leave Plymouth at a very early hour (it takes four hours).

 

UPDATE : There are now three places left on this coach.

 

All applications must be sent into Bishop’s House this week, (by 2nd August) so now is really the last chance to decide whether you want to go.