Richborough Family Festival at Rochester Cathedral Saturday 14th September 2019 Holy Cross Day

Richborough Family Festival at Rochester Cathedral
Saturday 14th September 2019 Holy Cross Day
Mass at 12 Noon Evensong 3.15pm
Bishop Norman is very much looking forward to the much hoped for splendid turnout out from his parishes and beyond. Some parishes and dioceses have organised coaches although it would be helpful to have a rough idea of numbers for logistical reasons. Please do your best to encourage a great attendance.
Concelebration
Priests who relate to Bishop Norman for sacramental care (mainly The Society/SSC) are welcome to vest in the lady chapel (to the right of the nave) by 11.40am. There will be some red vestments but otherwise please wear alb and red stole. Only priests who hold a current PTO or licence are permitted to concelebrate and no exceptions will be agreed. All concelebrants must advise me in advance of their intention as I am duty bound to submit a list to the Dean and Chapter in advance.
Children
Children are most welcome and although there will be no organised activities we will provide 30 goody bags for children of primary age on a first come first served basis. Laura the Erith Deanery Children’s worker will keep a look out for all such children. The Lady Chapel may be used as a break out area during mass for restless children who are accompanied by a parent or carer.
Lunch & Cathedral Cafe
If wet you are welcome to eat your packed lunch in the cathedral. We will provide some bin bags but please take rubbish home if possible. If the weather is good the castle lawn opposite or cloister garth are options. There are plenty of eateries for a sit down meal in Rochester High Street but large groups will need to pre-book as Rochester is quite busy on a Saturday. The cathedral café (in the crypt) serves drinks, cake, sandwiches and crisps – they are stocking up for us so please support them!
Parish Banners
You are encouraged to bring your parish banner for the procession in but not out. Someone will be on standby to direct you.
Evensong
The travelling evensong choir “SiNG” have been drafted in as the cathedral choir is not in residence. We are most grateful to them.
Acknowledgements
The Dean & Chapter and cathedral staff have been very welcoming and helpful in organising these acts of worship. The Society of the Holy Cross have also sponsored this day. The Bishop of Rochester will be present and will give the blessing at Mass. The collection will go towards the mission of our cathedral church so please be generous; Thank you!
Contacts
Fr Clive Jones ssc (on behalf of the organising committee)
020 8311 6307 or 07780 992871 e: frclive@tiscali.co.uk 
to edit.