On Tuesday 17 February, Fr Gregory Marchwinski was formally installed as a Canon of the Cathedral Chapter during a prayerful and dignified celebration of Installation and Midday Prayer at Northampton Cathedral.
The rite was led by Monsignor Sean Healy, Provost of the Cathedral Chapter, who warmly welcomed Fr Gregory as he took his place among “a long line of venerable canons who have served the good people of Northampton over many, many years.” Monsignor Healy reflected on the enduring witness of the Chapter, noting that it will approach its 150th anniversary in 2027, and situating Fr Gregory’s appointment firmly within this living tradition of service to the local Church.
At the beginning of the rite, Fr Gregory presented his letter of appointment, which was read aloud by the Chapter Secretary. In it, Monsignor Healy wrote of his confidence that Fr Gregory’s wisdom and experience would “enhance the advice” offered by the Chapter, assuring him of his prayers as he undertook this new responsibility.
Fr Gregory then made a solemn Profession of Faith, publicly proclaiming the Creed before the assembled clergy and faithful. Following this, he made his formal promise of obedience and confidentiality, pledging to accept and faithfully observe the statutes of the Chapter and to maintain discretion regarding its deliberations.
In a moment rich in symbolism, Fr Gregory was vested with the rochet and the cappa parva, the traditional signs of his office as a canon. He was also presented with the Book of the Gospels, and formally received into the brotherhood of the Chapter with prayer, marking his full incorporation into its common life of prayer and service.
The installation flowed naturally into Midday Prayer, during which psalms, hymns, and intercessions were offered, entrusting Canon Gregory’s ministry to the grace of God. In the concluding prayer, the Provost asked that he might be bound to God in piety, live in true charity with his brother canons, and faithfully serve in the house of the Lord.
In his closing remarks, Monsignor Healy expressed gratitude to those who had travelled from Kettering, Northampton, and across the diocese to support the new canon. He noted that the installation of a canon is always a moment of joy, reflecting the diversity and richness of the Diocese of Northampton, and strengthening the bonds between cathedral, clergy, and people.
Canon Gregory currently serves as Parish Priest of St Edward’s, Kettering, and also has pastoral care of the parishes of Holy Trinity, Desborough; St Nicholas Owen, Burton Latimer; and St Bernadette’s, Rothwell. Incardinated into the Catholic Diocese of Northampton in 2019, his installation as a canon marks a significant milestone in his priestly ministry.
The celebration concluded with a blessing and warm applause, as the faithful gave thanks for Canon Gregory’s new role and prayed that God would grant him strength, wisdom, and joy as he serves the Cathedral Chapter in the years ahead.
