On December 2, 2024, the Archdiocese of Cardiff and the Diocese of Menevia received the Papal Bull which heralded the official beginning of the new Archdiocese of Cardiff-Menevia. In an event attended by clergy from across the new Archdiocese, bishops, religious, schoolchildren, parishioners and local dignitaries came to hear Monsignor Ante Vidović, the Deputy of the Apostolic Nunciature, read the papal bull which decreed that both Dioceses would now become one Archdiocese:

We have decided and hereby decree that the Archdiocese of Cardiff and the Diocese of Menevia until now suffragan of the former, shall be united as a single and new Church, to be called CARDIFF-MENEVIA, keeping intact the territories which until now belonged to both dioceses

It was a very significant moment in the life of both Dioceses, and the singing and musical accompaniment added to this memorable day. In his homily Archbishop Mark described this milestone, decreed by Pope Francis, as a “new beginning,” rooted in faith, trust, and the mission to bring Christ to the world.

A Model of Faith: The Centurion’s Example

Drawing from the Gospel, Archbishop Mark reflected on the unwavering faith of the Roman centurion who amazed Jesus. Despite his humility and lack of religious status, the centurion recognised Jesus as Lord, saying:

“Lord, I am not worthy that you should come under my roof, but only say the word, and I, and we shall be healed.”

This faith, Archbishop Mark emphasised, serves as a model for today’s Church. He challenged the faithful to emulate the centurion’s trust:

“The faith that like the Centurion’s amazes you. You want us to trust you like he did. This is the faith that makes you marvel.”

A Call to Mission: “Come” and “Go”

Archbishop Mark described the unity of the new Archdiocese as a reflection of the Church’s union with Christ. He urged all to draw closer to Jesus and, in turn, courageously share His love with others.

“May today help each of us ‘Come’ much closer to Jesus, and give us the courage to ‘Go’ to others as His missionary disciples.”

This mission, he noted, is not limited to grand gestures but also encompasses smaller, personal acts of faith. The aim is to engage with those furthest from Christ and to witness boldly in a world that often challenges faith.

Renewing the Church: A Fresh Vision

Looking to the future, Archbishop Mark called for creativity and courage in serving the Church’s mission. He posed an important question:

“Can we do something else, can we do something fresh and different?”

Following the Proclamation Mass Archbishop Mark invited guests to share in refreshments in Cornerstone. It was here that parishioners, dignitaries, friends and clergy spent time meeting old friends and making new ones.

Read Archbishop Mark’s Homily – Proclamation of New Archdiocese

Pic: Marcin Mazur. ©mazur/cbcew.org