On Tuesday 10 June, Archbishop John Sherrington took possession of his Episcopal Chair in the Cathedral Church of Saint Mary of the Isle, Isle of Man, the co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Liverpool.

The archbishop’s first trip to the island in an official capacity came a few weeks after the Mass of Installation at the Metropolitan Cathedral in May.

The service was attended by parishioners from across the island as well as dignitaries including the King’s personal representatives on the Isle of Man, His Excellency The Lieutenant Governor; the President of Tynwald; the Chief Minister of the Isle of Man; the Deputy Mayor and the Chief Executive of the City of Douglas.

Ecumenical representatives and the choir from St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, who sung This Little Light of Mine, were also in attendance.

At the beginning of the service, Archbishop Sherrington, accompanied by the Vicar General and Chancellor of the archdiocese; knocked on the cathedral door to gain entry. Cathedral Dean Monsignor John Devine opened the doors of the cathedral and welcomed the archbishop.

Before the archbishop took possession of his cathedra, Vicar General Canon Aidan Prescott read the mandate from the late Pope Francis, before Monsignor Devine led the archbishop to the Episcopal Chair.

The Gospel was read in Manx and the Manx national anthem was sung to recognise the cultural heritage and unique status of the Isle of Man.

Archbishop John Sherrington said: “My visit to the Isle of Man was full of great joy. It was wonderful to meet so many parishioners as well as clergy, ecumenical partners, civic dignitaries and young people. I want to thank everyone for my warm welcome to this part of our archdiocese.”

You can view pictures from the day here. Archbishop John Sherrington's Installation at the Co-Cathedral of St Mary of the Isle, Isle of Man | Flickr