I wish to express sincere gratitude to Monsignor Philip Moger, Auxiliary Bishop-Elect for the Archdiocese of Southwark, as he prepares to conclude his tenure as Rector of the Catholic National Shrine and Basilica of Our Lady in Walsingham. Monsignor Moger has served as Rector for the past three years, moving to Walsingham from his home diocese of Leeds. Alongside his diocesan duties, Monsignor Moger has been a most faithful and talented servant of the Catholic Church in England and Wales for many years, contributing greatly on the national level to the liturgical and spiritual wellbeing of the Church. On behalf of the Diocese of East Anglia, I offer thanksgiving for the immense contribution of Monsignor Moger to the on-going development of the National Shrine and its mission. We note, in particular, the recent decision to designate the celebration of Our Lady of Walsingham as a National Feast in England. Bishop-Elect Philip has ever been, and will ever be, a true and most caring Pastor of the Flock. Whilst we are sad to see him leave the sacred precincts of Walsingham, we entrust him with great confidence into the realm of his future episcopal ministry. Our Holy Father Pope Francis, as Vicar of Christ, has chosen Fr.Philip to assist Archbishop Wilson in the vineyard of South London and Kent. We offer Bishop-Elect Philip the firm assurance of our prayers during these days of transition and we entrust his future ministry to the loving embrace of Our Lady of Walsingham.
Bishop Peter Collins, the Bishop of East Anglia, pays tribute to outgoing Rector, Mgr. Philip Moger, Auxiliary Bishop-Elect of the Archdiocese of Southwark
