The Lieutenancy of England and Wales was established in 1954 and has some 500 members. These are grouped into seven Sections (aligned to groups of Dioceses) – Westminster, Southwark, Southern, Eastern, Midlands (including Wales), Northern and Northumbrian. At national level, Investiture Vigil Services and Masses and Chapter Meetings are held at St George's Cathedral, Southwark twice a year, while local events, based on a religious theme or occasion, are organised by Sections throughout the year.  

The Lieutenancy has the following Mission Statement:

“Our Aim is to support by our Prayers, our Presence on Pilgrimage and our Financial Contributions, principally through the Latin Patriarch, the Christian Community in the Holy Land”. 

The spiritual life of the Lieutenancy is reflected in its prayer book and members’ commitment to its daily Prayer, in Days of Recollection, in monthly Masses for the Church in the Holy Land and in annual celebrations of the Feast of Our Lady, Queen of Palestine. 

The Lieutenancy is proud to play a significant part in the practical work of the Order. The major financial contribution from the Lieutenancy to the expenses of the Latin Patriarchate is made through our submission to the Order's Central Office in Rome. In addition, regular pilgrimages to the Holy Land are organised, demonstrating our commitment to the Patriarchate and the schools, parishes and projects we support. Examples of recent projects include training courses and work experience in England for teachers of English and visiting Seminarians from the Holy Land, as well as financial contributions to a new parish church in Muqueibleh, a library and computer room at T'la a Ali, Jordan, and a science laboratory for a school in Gaza. Assistance is also given to Bethlehem University. 

Some of our members play a leading role in the Cambridge Nazareth Trust, which seeks to assist school projects and pupils in the Holy Land.   

Officers of the Lieutenancy:

Lieutenant: His Excellency Dr Michael Whelan, KSG KGCHS
Grand Prior: Most Rev Kevin McDonald KC*HS, Archbishop of Southwark
Chancellor: Patrick Burgess, KCHS
Secretary: Mrs Patricia Page, DC*HS
Treasurer: Bernard J. Waddingham, KC*HS

The Lieutenancy is a registered Charity (262033). 

Top of Page