Roman Catholic Archbishop The Most Rev Bernard Longley, who is also co-chair of the Anglican Roman Catholic International Commission (ARCIC), and Anglican Bishop The Right Rev David Urquhart first prayed together – while observing social distancing – at St Chad’s RC Cathedral and then walked together to St Philip’s C of E Cathedral.

 

They were joined by Mgr Tim Menezes, Dean of St Chad’s, and The Very Reverend Matt Thompson, The Dean of Birmingham.

 

St Chad’s Cathedral reopened for individual prayer last month, and Mass on Saturday 4 July.

 

Birmingham Cathedral reopened for private prayer on Monday 6 July and will be holding two short Eucharist services on Sundays.

 

Archbishop Bernard said: “There is a real sense of homecoming at being able to pray with Bishop David at both St Chad’s and St Philip’s Cathedral.

 

“It was very poignant to pray together for our city and to remember all those whose lives have been so changed by the coronavirus pandemic over the last nearly four months.

 

“I am grateful for the witness and work of our two cathedral communities in the heart of Birmingham.”