Annual Mass and Dinner for the
RAF Catholic Community

The annual Mass for the Royal Air Force Catholic community took place on Thursday 10th October 24 in the magnificent setting of the Central Church of the RAF, St Clement Danes, in central London.  Bishop Paul presided at the Mass and was assisted by the RAF Principal Roman Catholic Chaplain, Rev (Sqn Ldr) Dave Skillen.  Concelebrating was the new Army PRCC, Fr Stephen Sharkey; former RAF Chaplain, Canon Paul Douthwaite; Army Chaplain, Fr Smith; and great friend of the RAF, Fr Jim Walls.

 

The Mass allows Catholics who serve the RAF from across the Whole Force, their loved ones, and indeed anyone who wishes, to join in fellowship, worship, thanksgiving and praise of God.  St Clement Danes prove excellent hosts and the music director and choir add to the richness of the liturgy.  The Venerable Dr (Air Vice-Marshal) Giles Legood, RAF Chaplain-in-Chief; other chaplains from the RAF; and from our sister Services were once again able to join for Mass and the Dinner which followed.

 

The Annual Dinner for the RAF PRCC took place following the Mass at the RAF Club on Piccadilly.  The dinner allows the RAF PRCC to thank those who have served the Catholic mission in the RAF and to highlight the great work being carried out by RAF Catholics to senior personnel throughout Defence.  We were honoured to have both Air Marshal Philip Sturley and current RAF Director People and Air Secretary, Air Vice-Marshal Simon Edwards dine with us.  

 

During the Dinner there were vignettes highlighting the work of the RAF RC Pastoral Advisory Group who have helped organise the International Military Pilgrimage, the HCPT Easter Pilgrimage, 4 Armed Forces Retreats, Annual Masses, and a walking pilgrimage to Walsingham this year.  Air Commodore Alan Opie, a long-term supporter of the RAF Catholic mission, was awarded the Bishopric of the Forces medal in recognition of his long and illustrious service to the Bishopric.  His wife, Carolyn, was also awarded a commendation from the Chaplain-in-Chief in recognition of her work as a Trustee for St Clement Danes.

 

The annual Mass at St Clements Danes in 2025 will take place at 1400 on Thursday 9th October.  All are very welcome to attend.