Canon John Poland was installed as an Honorary Canon in a special Mass at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Christ the King.

Canon Poland was awarded the honour following his appointment as the Judicial Vicar in the first instance in the newly launched National Tribunal Service of England and Wales.

In total, four clergy of our archdiocese were appointed to roles on the new NTS. Bishop Tom Neylon, Vicar General, was appointed Bishop-Moderator in the second instance. Canon Aidan Prescott, Vicar General, was appointed a Judge in the first service and Fr Sean Riley, Chancellor, was appointed Promoter of Justice in the second instance.

The Mass was celebrated by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon, who works closely with Canon Poland.

He described it as a great gift to be able to install Fr John as an honorary Canon.

The Mass was celebrated in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel in the Cathedral, with the Chapter of Canons, the archbishop, and other priests, including other officers of the NTS in attendance.

As well as that, members of staff from the archdiocesan offices were also there.

Celebrating a Mass for the feast day of St Cecilia, patron saint of music, the installation then took place following the homily, and Canon Poland took his place alongside the Chapter of Canons.

The new Canon received congratulations from many people attending the Mass and greeted them before returning to the sacristy.