Compliments slip: Bishop Secretary: "Tony Sketch will arrange to deliver the enclosed - less the carbon - to all Downham Market parishioners when he distributes his invitations to the real Mass."
Page 1: letter to the congregation at Downham Market - explaining, now that the legal procedure is over, the sorrow he feels in acting against Fr Baker. Obedience to the Holy Father means accepting the changes away from the Tridentine Mass. Expects support for Fr Sketch. Notes of explanation included.
Page 2-3: Notes headed: "1. Your present position"; "2. The Missal of Pope Paul VI"; "3. The Bishop's dealings with Fr Baker"
Fr Baker celebrated Mass without approval in the old rite without permission, preached without faculties and heard confession in an unsatisfactory conditions. He is reported as saying "Since the Vatican Council there have been two churches, one of which is the modern one with new doctrines, new morality, and new liturgy. They can't excommunicate me for that Church because I have never been a member of it. But I intend to remain loyal to the real Church." He has been on radio and television and has caused us considerable embarrassment. Can you persuade him to remain in Downham Market; he intends to return in the next month?
Lindsay, Hugh Rev (1927-2009)The proposed Mass has no ecclesiastical authority - Fr Baker has not sought leave to offer Mass. Despite Fr Baker's defence of following his conscience he has overlooked the duty to educate his conscience - cites a few examples. Bishop says the Fr Baker is neglecting the guidance of Vatican II, the Pope, Bishop Grant and Bishop Clark. Even if you cannot accept these, consider deeply before leaving Downham Market to share your personal difficulties in other dioceses.
Lindsay, Hugh Rev (1927-2009)pg1: Celebration of the Centenary with Cardinal Hume; Programme
pg2: Invitation for Press/Broadcasters to a reception at Cathedral House on 13 June 1984, Fr Harry Wace hosting
pg3-5: "Cardinal Hume Joins in Norwich Centenary Celebrations"; description of personalities, events and programme
Covering letter for a report commissioned by the bishop on internal diocesan commuications. 45 recommendations. Copies sent fro Council of Proests members and Fr Gary Dowsey.
Catholic Bishop's Conference of England and WalesCovering letter for a petition which was also sent to Bishop Grant
CorrespondentSorry about unfortunate Anglia TV broadcast - do there best but slipped up on terminology and facts. More sorry about any intemperate letters and will let it be known that they are deplored.
Baker, Oswald Charles Rev (1915-2004)Income in the parish has increased - so, not living on a "pittance". Willing to accept position as a curate so that the parish priest from Swaffham does not have to travel to Downham. His weekly visit to the convent in Swaffham means he could easily report to the PP. Changes would be detrimental to this parish. Suggest that any priest free to officiate do so at Oxburgh instead. Not impelled to move; willing to stay.
Baker, Oswald Charles Rev (1915-2004)Birthday wishes for 8th to Bishop. Will need time reflect before making any comment.
Baker, Oswald Charles Rev (1915-2004)