When the cathedral was established and consecrated in 1030, the liturgical language in use was Latin. Following the Anglican Church’s break with Rome, the main language of worship was English.

The new processional statue will be formally unveiled later this month as part of events to mark the 140th anniversary of the Knock apparitions in 1879.

Wednesday, 21st August marks the 140th anniversary of the apparition in 1879, and a special day of celebration is planned to mark the occasion.

According to the Church in Chains Global Guide, the situation is noticeably worsening in India as Hindu extremists attack churches in rural areas every week and under President Xi’s religious clampdown in China.