Westminster Cathedral calendar features 'off-duty' priests

Westminster Cathedral has produced a 2010 calendar that features pictures and personal words from the Catholic Archbishop of Westminster Vincent Nichols, eleven priests and one religious sister.

Each month features a picture of a priest or religious sister “off duty” involved in projects or pastimes outside their day-to-day life in the cathedral. It also includes a few words explaining why they decided to enter religious life, what they would do if they had not entered the church, and a quote or scripture passage that inspires them.

The Archbishop reveals if he could not do the job he has now, he would either be a lorry driver or a French horn player.

The calendar, priced at £5, is being sold to encourage the parishioners of Westminster Cathedral to keep their priests in their prayers during this ‘Year for Priests’, and to raise money for essential works needed to maintain the Cathedral.

Canon Christopher Tuckwell, Cathedral Administrator said: "When we were approached about taking part in the production of this calendar there was some initial reluctance as, although we have a public profile, most of the cathedral clergy are fairly private people.

“However, as this calendar is being sold in aid of the Cathedral Appeal, we felt we had no choice other than to take part and, in the event it has proved to be great fun.

"We hope that the pictures of your clergy will bring some amusement to you throughout the year.”