Dear Members
As we begin our Second Century it is good to reflect on the achievements of our first Hundred Years.
The Society’s aim, to promote and advance the Catholic Church in England and Wales, together with the support of the Archbishop of Westminster and his residence, has been followed admirably. There have been eight Archbishops in the hundred years and seven Chairmen since 1953.
Between 1922 and 1953 it was traditionally the Archbishop of Westminster who took the Chair at meetings, until Bernard the sixteenth Duke of Norfolk was formally named the Chairman in 1953. Several special appeals have been undertaken during these years, the most successful, by far, has been the Centenary Appeal, which has, so far, reached £90,312. Annual donations over the years have contributed to many projects in Archbishop’s House, including necessary ongoing maintenance and without the generosity of our members these would not have been possible.
Funds from the Centenary Appeal have enabled the LED replacement lighting in Archbishop’s House to be undertaken, which has considerably reduced carbon emissions and annual costs. Further projects are being sought to reduce the carbon footprint. The Trustees are determined that any project must give substantial energy savings, in the short term, for all costs involved. The Appeal is still ongoing and open to further contributions. Our members are the best people to promote the Society, by introducing new members from among family and friends. It would be a wonderful boost to the Society if every member found just one new person to join. This is something each of us could try to do at the start of our Second Century. Also, please do not forget that a Legacy to the Society, in your Will, is a lasting way in which to assist in the future aims of the Society.
A few years ago the Summer Outing was inaugurated and many places of interest, both spiritual and temporal, have been visited. We would welcome any suggestions of future suitable venues, from our members. We were, of course, thrilled, during our Centenary Year, to hold the very special Reception with The Prince of Wales, now King Charles III and the excellent Mansion House Reception. These have left a lasting memory for us all and have raised the profile of the Society. We can be very proud of our history and the achievements of our Society so far and must endeavour to go forward with renewed enthusiasm.
Since our AGM and reception in March this year, we have held two enjoyable events. The first being Mass held at Farm Street church on 13th July, in thanksgiving for the Centenary Year. This was graciously celebrated by the Cardinal, who during his sermon, reflected on the valuable work of the Society during its hundred years existence. Mass was followed by a most enjoyable buffet lunch. The second event, on 6th September, was an interesting and historical tour of Brompton Oratory and the Sacristy, with talks by two of the community. These included the history of the Congregation founded by St Philip Neri in Rome. Members and their guests were given a very special view of treasured vestments and silverware.
For some years, the Society has had the pleasure of inviting a Guest Speaker to the Autumn Reception and there have been a number of most interesting and informative talks. Last year, the Cathedral architect gave members and guests an historical and illustrated talk on Archbishop’s House. On 7th November this year our Guest Speaker will be Alderman Vincent Keaveny KCSG, a member of the Society, who has kindly agreed to tell us about his year as Lord Mayor of London in 2021-22. This will be a fascinating evening and we hope many members and their guests will attend. Details and a booking form are enclosed with this newsletter. Although there is no charge for our Receptions, a donation towards the work of the Society is very welcome.
I would like to place on record personal thanks to my fellow Trustees, who give generously of their time and expertise to ensure the smooth running of the Society and its aims.
Finally, thank you to all our members who support the Society in many ways, namely, your attendance at functions and events and not forgetting your generous financial assistance.
Mary Goodwin
Chairman of Council
October 2023
The Society of St Augustine of Canterbury 