The Second Vatican Council’s Sacrosanctum Concilium urged renewal of the liturgy for active, conscious participation. It insisted that symbols be clear, direct, and meaningful. Yet in practice today, many rituals risk reversing that vision, introducing complexity where simplicity was intended, and creating distance rather than engagement.

Bold but careful: allowing lay ministers to celebrate the Sacrament of the Sick would demand training, safeguards and oversight, yet could profoundly bless the Church’s ministry to the sick.

The installation of Archbishop John Sherrington in Liverpool was meticulously planned and joyfully executed, honouring both tradition and liturgical renewal. The May celebration drew thousands and reflected the vision of Vatican II through inclusive participation, thoughtful music, and profound architectural symbolism centred around the altar.