On Valentine’s Day 2026, Westminster Cathedral in London became the center of spiritual celebration as Archbishop Richard Moth was formally installed as the 12th Archbishop of Westminster.
In a packed cathedral brimming with clergy, civic leaders, religious figures, and lay faithful, Moth delivered a heartfelt homily urging Catholics to live boldly in the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
A Homily Rooted in Service and Love
Drawing inspiration from St. Paul’s words to Timothy, Archbishop Moth emphasized that God’s call is not about wielding worldly power but about practicing self-control guided by the Holy Spirit.
He highlighted that true Christian service mirrors Christ’s total self-giving on the cross and brings hope to a world in need of spiritual light.
Recalling a personal memory from 1976, Moth shared that he first encountered these same Scriptures during the episcopal consecration of Archbishop Cardinal Basil Hume, noting how this vision of “Christ-like service” has stayed with him throughout his ministry.
The Mission of Evangelization in Today’s World
Archbishop Moth called on the faithful to carry the Gospel into every corner of society—homes, schools, universities, workplaces, and the public square.
He stressed that evangelization must be patient, grounded in the Eucharist and prayer, and attentive to the “great questions of our time,” including peace, human dignity, protection of the vulnerable, refugees, and care for the environment.
Quoting Pope Benedict XVI, Moth underscored the importance of faith engaging with reason and contributing meaningfully to contemporary society.
He reminded believers that while evangelization may demand boldness, fear is unnecessary when guided by the Spirit.
Nurturing the Flame of the Holy Spirit
The Archbishop encouraged Catholics to recognize that the gifts of the Holy Spirit, received through Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders, are entrusted to every believer.
He compared living out these gifts to fanning a flame that must be nurtured through prayer, study, and active service.
While acknowledging past failures within the Church—particularly regarding vulnerable members—Moth framed these challenges as a reason for urgency, calling for humble, Spirit-led action to rebuild trust and strengthen the Church’s mission.
A Solemn and Joyful Installation
The installation ceremony began at noon with the ringing of cathedral bells and the opening of the Great West Door.
Dressed in gold vestments with Byzantine-inspired patterns, Moth knelt in silent prayer before proceeding into the cathedral.
The choir, accompanied by the music of Sir James MacMillan, performed a Responsory, while Canon Shaun Lennard formally greeted him.
After Pope Leo XIV’s apostolic letter was read aloud, Cardinal Vincent Nichols handed over the archbishop’s crozier, symbolizing his new authority.
Dignitaries, including the Lord Mayor of Westminster and Anglican Archbishop Dame Sarah Mullally, expressed their welcome and support for collaborative Christian witness.
The Pontifical Mass that followed included readings for the Feast of Saints Cyril and Methodius and highlighted the sending of the 72 disciples, reinforcing Moth’s call to active evangelization.
Notably, the principal chalice used in the Mass dated back to 1529, just before the Reformation.
Looking Forward: Prayer, Listening, and Adaptation
Archbishop Moth has made it clear that his first priority is to listen widely and respond to the needs of the archdiocese, rather than impose predetermined plans.
He emphasized the centrality of prayer, particularly the Eucharist, and a renewed commitment to sharing the Gospel in ways that speak to modern society without compromising its essence.
What’s Next?
Moth’s tenure promises a balance of pastoral care, social engagement, and spiritual leadership.
Parish communities can expect initiatives aimed at deepening faith formation, supporting vulnerable groups, and fostering dialogue between faith and public life.
The archbishop will also encourage clergy and laity alike to embrace evangelization creatively, ensuring that the Catholic message remains relevant and vibrant in contemporary England and Wales.
Summary
Archbishop Richard Moth was installed as the 12th Archbishop of Westminster on February 14, 2026, at a ceremony marked by solemnity and celebration.
In his homily, he called Catholics to a Christ-like life guided by the Holy Spirit, emphasizing prayer, service, and evangelization.
He acknowledged past Church failures while inspiring hope and courage, urging believers to actively engage with the pressing social and moral questions of the day.
His first actions as archbishop will focus on listening, prayerful discernment, and fostering a renewed, Spirit-led Catholic mission throughout the archdiocese.
