Bishop Peter Collins, Bishop Alan Hopes and the Trustees of the Catholic National Shrine at Walsingham, are delighted to announce the appointment of Friar James Mary as Acting Rector of the Catholic National Shrine.

We congratulate him on his appointment and offer our prayers of encouragement and support for his ministry here in Walsingham.

Bishop Peter said:

On behalf of the Diocese of East Anglia I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to Friar James Mary for his agreement to serve as Rector of the National Shrine and Basilica until a permanent successor to Bishop Philip Moger is appointed in the summer. I am most grateful to Bishop Alan Hopes for his willingness to continue serving as Chair of the Walsingham Trust until a new Rector is appointed. We entrust the great mission of the Shrine to God’s protecting grace through the intercession of Our Lady of Walsingham. I call upon all faithful pilgrims to join me in offering the Acting Rector the assurance of our sustained prayer and support.

Yours in Christ,

+ Peter Collins
Bishop of East Anglia

Friar James Mary responded:

I am most grateful for all your prayers and support for this time I have been asked to be Acting Rector of the Catholic National Shrine at Walsingham.
Ever trusting in Our Lady’s Guidance and maternal protection.