10/05/2026
On Friday we hosted Archbishop Paul Gallagher, Secretary for the Relations with States within the Holy See’s Secretariat of State. He joined the college for vespers and then had an incontro with the community, sharing recollections of his work for the Holy See stretching over four decades and particularly his important role for twelve years overseeing the Vatican’s relations with States. The voice of the Holy See, though not a military power, is massively significant and a great force for peace and natural law in the world. It of course represents, and advocates for the religious freedom of, 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide and champions justice for all people. No-one knows the world situation between States and the Church better than Archbishop Paul. He answered questions from the seminarians with depth and experience.
He was then invited to bless our new ‘Garden Room’. This space will provide a new meeting place for classes and groups and external visitors. It also works very well for receptions.
We had invited Archbishop Paul specifically for a festal supper to celebrate his reception of a Knighthood (becoming Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George) from the King (following his Majesties successful state visit to the Vatican in October), the first given to an English prelate in modern times. This specific honour is rarely given and only to those who hold high office, and those who render extraordinary or important non-military service in a foreign country. Archbishop Paul was recognised specifically for ‘his outstanding contributions to international diplomacy and interfaith dialogue. His knighthood marks a significant moment of recognition for his decades of service across continents and cultures’. Mgr Peter Fleetwood who is a friend since childhood of the Archbishop, gave the after dinner speech - with great humour and feeling. The Rector gave a gift of the College Coat of Arms on a ceramic plate and we all sang the customary Ad Multos Annos. It was a very lovely and moving evening to commemorate one of Britain’s greatest sons and all that he has done for the Church and the World.
